April 2014 final newsletter

Village of

Westchester March 2014 Newsletter

From the Desk of The President FIRE DEPARTMENT

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POLICE DEPARTMENT

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COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

10 President Pulia, Trustees Calcagno, Perry and Yurkovich and WCMC Executive Director Pellegrino with the Lincoln Family at the Abraham Lincoln Museum in Springfield.

PARK DISTRICT

CALENDAR

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CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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PUBLIC WORKS

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It appears that spring is finally here, at least officially since March 21st, but I can remember having snow rear its last minute crescendo as late as April 12th in years past. Looking ahead instead of backwards, spring brings a spirit of rejuvenation into us all. The tulips we planted last fall will begin popping through the soil and the buds of life that protrude from the ends of tree limbs remind us here in Chicagoland that another season is on the way. For us at the village, we will continue to forge ahead with the many projects that I, along with the majority of the village board and staff, have been pushing for all of our benefit.

The other day I looked in my desk and located some election literature that I, along with my team of trustees, authored as you swept us into office. As someone with a type “A” personality and parents who pushed the four of us kids to never being satisfied with the status quo and under the banner of “Lost Time Is Never Found Again” and “Don’t Promise Something You Can’t Deliver”. Our initial team of Village Clerk Cathy Booth, Trustees Nick Steker, Brian Sloan, Wally Novak and I put together a plan and direction

that we believed wholeheartily in and although healthy discussions occurred on the manner of how we could financially get there we developed a platform to move Westchester to a higher and better level than it was presently in. Fast forward to today, we continue that plan with Trustees Frank Perry, Celeste Reda, Angelo Calcagno, Nick Steker, Tom Yurkovich, and Paul Gattuso.

Under the banner of “Real Economic Development”, we promised to have meetings on a regular basis to develop a Comprehensive Plan with input from businesses and residents.

We also promised to look into the development of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Districts to rejuvenate blighted areas. To these initiatives, I believe we have accomplished the following: An Economic Development Committee led by Pastor Joseph Mills, members Lori -jo Fergle, Darlene Barber, Kandice Jacobs, Allison Muzal, Chamber of Commerce liaison Bruce Horek, and Village Board liaison Trustee Frank Perry and staff representative Melissa Headley has

See PRESIDENT, page 4

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Police Department APRIL 2014

Preventing Home Repair Fraud Homeowners can protect themselves from becoming victims of home repair frauds by educating themselves on their rights as consumers.

Consider the fact thatAmericans will spend an estimated $133.9Â billion on contracted home improvement projects and do-it-yourself repairs this year. Because the home repair industry is thriving, it is lucrative for con artists, and each year Americans lose millions of dollars on fraudulent repairs and fixing the damage.

Below are examples of common home repair scams and tips for hiring a contractor.

Con artists carry out home repair scams in many different ways. A common example is the quick repair made with materials left over from another job. The con artist approaches a homeowner with an offer to repair the driveway or roof with materials left over from another job in the neighborhood.

Many of these fraudulent workers appear after heavy rains, winds, snow, or other disasters that wreck lawns, roads, and driveways. What seems like a good deal for the homeowner turns into a nightmare when it becomes apparent that the con artist used inferior materials, made faulty repairs, or did not do the job at all.

Another typical scam is the home improvement loan scam where contractors persuade homeowners to finance the project through a lender the contractor knows. Once the job is underway, the contractor and lender pressure the homeowner to sign a series of blank or vaguely written contracts. The homeowner has unwittingly signed a contract for a home equity loan with alarmingly high interest rates and payments. To make matters worse, the contractor may not complete the job satisfactorily or even finish it at all. Similarly, homeowners may

Police blotter 1) At 1:33 am on February 19, 2014, a Possession of Cannabis Arrest was made in the area of Orchard Avenue and Roosevelt Road. Officers charged a 24 year old male with possession of cannabis after being stopped for traffic related violations.

located at 1137 Mannheim Road.

The manager of the business reported that 3 male and 4 female subjects exited without paying their bill.

5) At 6:32 pm on March 10, 2014, a Possession of Heroin arrest was 2) At 11:17 am on February 25, made at the Walgreens located 2014, a Theft was reported at the at 10345 Roosevelt Road. The 27 Jewel Foods Store located at 2128 year of age female was arrested for Mannheim Road. A resident reported possession of heroin after a store that their wallet was removed from employee reported suspicious their purse while shopping earlier activity in the bathroom. in the day 6) At 7:58 pm on March 11, 2014, 3) At 5:36 pm on February 26, 2014, a Burglary from Motor Vehicle a Criminal Damage to Vehicle was was reported on the 1500 block reported on the 10300 block of of Hull Ave. The resident reported Canterbury. Resident reported their that between 11:00pm and 6:00am door window was damaged. No unknown person(s) removed the sign of forced entry was observed catalytic converter from their and interior screen window was vehicle while parked in the street. not removed.

Between February 15, 2014 and 4) At 6:10 am on March 1, 2014, March 15, 2014 the Westchester a Theft was reported at the Police Department made three (3) International House of Pancakes driving under the influence arrests.

be tricked into signing papers that allow fraudulent contractors to obtain mortgages or assign liens against their property. In these instances, homeowners—especially older homeowners—could face foreclosure if they cannot make the high mortgage payments.

When considering potential contractors, homeowners should be wary of those who solicit door- todoor, just happen to have leftover materials from another job, accept only cash payments or ask for the entire payment up front, refuse to provide references, or suggest or

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insist that they borrow from a lender the contractor knows.

Homeowners should ask for a written contract that fully outlines the details of the job, including product and materials specifications, time lines, warranties, and payment schedules. Never sign a contract before reading it carefully or that has blank spaces to be filled in later.

Check with the Village Hall (708) 345-0020 to determine if contractor has a valid contractor license.

DIAL 911 to report suspicious activity in your neighborhood.

Chief John M. Carpino

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been in place for a number of years discussing and advising the village board on economic issues and have proffered the shop locally campaign, the 3/50 program, wayfinding sign initiatives, and Business Façade Improvement Grant Program. A village comprehensive plan is near completion with the help of CMAP (Chicago Metropolitan Area Planning), UIC grad students Capstone projects, and several meetings including the Business Leaders Summit that was recently held on March 20th.

Presently we are in the infancy of developing a TIF District for the Old St Joseph Property to bring some type of Senior Living Center to our village which is presently lacking. St. Joseph H.S. officials have recently been meeting with a 3 Corners Development Company, and hopefully, fingers crossed, will be closing on the 10 acre site in the next few months. At this time we have not seen any plans, proposals or President Pulia and Community Development Director Melissa Headley present to a packed house at the Village’s third annual Senior Breakfast with renderings for the site. Stay tuned.

FOLLETT MOVES TO WESTCHESTER Our Village Manager Janet Matthys, Community Development Director Melissa Headley, and I were invited to attend an opening of Follett Company ribbon cutting on March 19th. We were invited to attend the viewing of the site located at the Westbrook Corporate Center Tower #3 with members of the Follett Family and Board of Directors. CEO Mary Lee Schneider mentioned on several occasions how happy the company was to locate in Westchester. The company combined their three facilities from Oak Brook, Westmont, and River Grove to the state of the art renovation that occurred in a scant 5 months. The 650 plus employees are enthusiastic to be centrally located and collaborately working together to increase the profit of the 2.75 billion dollar a year family owned and operated business right here in Westchester. An EDGE Tax incentive issued by the State of Illinois in addition to improvements and free rent for the first year by ARDEN was just the enticement needed to lure the company to our town. The event was catered by The Bistro Restaurant located on the first floor between Tower #2 and #3. The food and drink provided by Manager Vivian and hospitality by Dawn and her very polite and conscientious service staff made the event that much better. Now if only we could

the President held on Friday, March 14th.

push the property management firm ARDEN and GE the owners of the property to put some restaurants on the outlots!!!

date of mid-October. The project was approved by the Westchester Plan Commission. Members of the commission are Chairman Neil James, Angela Smith, Tom Kopecky, Luigi Mazzei, Susan Nokes, Tim Dent, and Brian Cross. The plan was vetted through our Law Firm Storino, Ramello, and Durkin and our financial consultants at Kane McKenna before being unanimously approved by the Westchester Village Board.

receive $150 thousand dollars.

Westchester, as a result of the Non-Home Rule Sales Tax passed by referendum in November 2012 would receive an additional 1% sales GOOD BYE DOMINICK’S, HELLO tax amount on items purchased MARIANO’S! other than food or medicine which The closing of the Dominick’s are exempt from the additional Grocery Store in Westchester in tax. There is no sharing of the total January will result in another amount of this tax. The Village of Economic Boom to the Village of Westchester will collect this entire Westchester.

The 51 thousand amount. Based on the $50 million square foot Dominick’s will expand dollar in sales we calculate this to be to an 80 thousand square foot THE DETAILS about 25% of the total tax collected Mariano’s Food Emporium. I, along The economic incentive approved $500 thousand dollars which equals with Village Manager Janet Matthys is a sales tax rebate program. an additional $125 thousand dollars and Community Development No front monies will be offered. to the village. The village also will Director Melissa Headley, have been Purchases made in Westchester are collect its Places for Eating Tax of 1% communicating almost daily for the reported by the businesses to the on the gross sales of prepared ready past few months putting together state. The State of Illinois sales tax to eat foods that will be available a strong economic incentive for all purchases in the state is 6.25 for purchase at the cafeteria eating package that will create a complete percent. One percent of the 6.25% section of the store. transformation of the 31st and is sent back to Westchester from the Wolf Road plaza. The plaza name State of Illinois on a quarterly basis.

I have used a conservative baseline will change from the Westbrook Our agreement is that sales tax on number of 50 million in sales based Commons to more appropriately the first 20 million dollars in annual on other Mariano’s store that are the WESTCHESTER COMMONS. sales (1% or 200 thousand dollars) smaller in size than ours will be. I In my phone conversations with comes back to the village. No sharing can tell you without violating any Mariano’s owner Bob Mariano, he at all. Sales in excess of 20 million priority sales information that the indicated that this store will be the will be split 50/50 with Regency base sales tax we received from Flagship store in the area. He was Center the owner of the property. Dominick’s was substantially less. very excited to be able to open his If for example, sales for the year are The amount of the sales tax rebate store in Westchester. Site demolition 50 million dollars. 1% of the sales will be in place for 8 years, or a began the last week of March and tax would be 500 thousand dollars. maximum of 1.5 million dollars, an aggressive construction schedule Westchester would receive$350 See PRESIDENT, page 5 has begun with a target opening thousand dollars and Regency would

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whichever occurs first.

If, for instance, the store hits 50 million in sales for the 8 years, 1.2 million dollars would have been rebated. If it does 70 million over the 8 years they would receive the maximum rebate amount of 1.5 million dollars.

Regency will be using their portion of the rebate to expand the existing Dominick’s store footprint too create an 80 thousand square foot store.The entire store will be brought up to our current building code requirements, It will be used to replace signage, repave the Mariano’s portion of the front parking lot, install planters, and refresh the façade of the building to compliment the Mariano’s construction. Without a sales tax rebate agreement, Regency Centers indicated they would not be in a position to expand the Dominick’s Store to 80 thousand square feet nor make the amount of plaza improvements we were seeking.

The amount of individual sales a business or company does is proprietary.

The Village of Westchester does not receive individual corporate sales information from the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR). The IDOR groups similar business types together and we receive a check reflective of those groups.

ADDRESS RESIDENTIAL FLOODING This administration has been addressing the entire issue of flooding since 2009. Since that time we have been the victim of 2 Presidential disaster declarations involving FEMA, IEMA, the Governor, MWRD, and every Federal and State legislator and Cook County Commissioner representing us. We have made this a priority. Although we have no local control in the timing MWRD has been evaluating the cost benefit ratio in creating a reservoir to contain storm-water that will service Addison Creek that arrives from communities north of Westchester from what is identified as the Lower Des Plaines River Watershed. This reservoir, if and when constructed, is designed to alleviate flooding issues in the northeast section of the village. I wish I had more concrete facts however when you do not own it, you can not control it.

Plans are in the works with MWRD to expand their Mayfair Reservoir to hold an additional 35-40% more storm-water to alleviate flooding

Village Manager Matthys, President Pulia, Trustees Tom Yurkovich Angelo Calcagno pictured with Senator Marty Sandoval, Chair of the Transportation Committee, on the Senate Floor during the legislative drive down on March 26, 2014.

issues in the southwest section of the village. An Intergovernmental Agreement is being drafted by MWRD for Westchester to review and approve. Our portion of the approximately 2.1 million dollar project will be approximately 465 thousand dollars.

The village has lined sanitary sewers in the High Ridge area, and in the area of Westchester Blvd from Roosevelt to Canterbury where our sanitary sewer cleaning and televising inspections identified as needing repair .

insurance 10% for those homes identified as being in the flood plain as mandated by their mortgage holders to have flood insurance.

Former Trustee Walter Novak worked diligently on getting Westchester a rating from the Community Rating Service from the National Flood Insurance Program.

PRO-ACTIVE STREET MAINTENANCE

Where do I begin? Since 2010 over 25 streets have been completely rebuilt with new curbs, driveway aprons, and landscaping. It is true we had to sell bonds to get the A used vactor truck was purchased monies upfront to do these sorely to do both sanitary and storm needed street repairs. The difficulty sewer preventive maintenance. A is that it is very hard to keep up with Flood Rebate program was initiated. the Village’s aging infrastructure.

Smoke testing was performed ALTHOUGH WE HAVE RE-DONE to identify illegal storm draining OVER 25 STREETS THERE ARE AT hooked up to the sanitary system LEAST ANOTHER 50 THAT NEED that adds to the basement sewer TO BE DONE. To this end we back-ups. Additionally, we offered are constantly searching for new access, through the National League revenue sources to use to continue of Cities Service Line Warranty our rehabilitation program. Being Program to offer sanitary sewer pipe conservative, the board decided to insurance that residents have had use only a portion of our Non-home great success when dealing with Rule Sales Tax monies as a revenue root infested blocked sanitary sewer stream to pay off the 5.8 million problems.

We have applied for dollars in bonds we sold in 2013. funding on several Federal, State, and Our advisors indicated we could County programs. We completed have bonded for 10 million dollars, a Westchester Hazard Mitigation however being conservative and Plan, and reduced the level of flood not knowing exactly what the Non-

Home Rule Sales Tax was going to bring in we exercised what I will call fiscal restraint not to get too far ahead of ourselves. Looking back, I guess we could have bonded for the full amount and had another 4.2 million dollars to spend in fiscal year 2014-2015. We did not, so I’m sure we will be looking at our budget projections throughout this year and begin our planning earlier, as we will be spending the remainder of the bond money on this year’s projects.

We are in the process of receiving bids to complete our street reconstruction projects as of this writing. Bids will be opened the morning of April 2, 2014. The construction will be done in two phases. Phase one is scheduled to begin on April 21, 2014. The construction is scheduled to be completed in 6 weeks with a possible end date of May 30, 2014.

The streets to be re-constructed in Phase 1 are as follows: Downing (Cermak to Windsor) Buckingham (Cermak to Windsor) Essex (Sunnyside to Hawthorne) Wakefield (Wolf to Boeger) Phase 2 is scheduled to begin on

See PRESIDENT, page 6

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July 14, 2014. The construction is scheduled to be completed in 6 weeks with a possible end date of August 22, 2014.

The streets re-constructed in Phase 2 are as follows: Portsmouth (Drury to Dickens) Suffolk (Roosevelt to Gladstone) Norfolk (Drury to Dickens) Portsmouth (Canterbury to Kent) Oxford (Mannheim to Mayfair) Over the past few years our Public Works employees have been repaving street section projects in house. Well over 6 thousand tons of asphalt has been laid down as sectional patches.

In our area, we are the only town that has our own paving box and is able to do these types of sectional replacements. We are planning to put down another 2500 tons this year with our 8 person crews.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT This administration has participated in cooperative governance by reaching out to the Schools, Park District and the Library. A revitalized Economic Development Committee, Citizen Advisory Board, Environmental Sustainability Committee, whose members have reached out to many community groups. Many Associations such as the Lions Club, Kiwanis Club, Boy Scout Troops 1 and 73, Girls Scouts, Chamber of Commerce, and many other groups have participated in clean up days, appeared as vendors and volunteers at our festivals and events. The cooperation level is at an all-time high and we look forward to building new relationships with other groups and associations.

Governor Quinn and President Pulia in Springfield following the State Budget Address on March 26, 2014.

dumpsters in excess of 600 thousand dollars as a result of the floods, and other costs to handle the emergency situations for personnel, supplies, and relief have cost us dearly.

We do not have a defined “contingency fund”. Our budget reflects the guidance and funding required to operate. Budgets are not absolute as there are many variables that could send budgets into a tailspin in a heartbeat. Our budget for fiscal year 2014-2015 has to be passed by April 30, 2014, the end of our fiscal year. Not to be overloaded with line item and amount details, we have broken the budget meetings down FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY into 3 separate special meetings.

Spending your hard earned tax The Public Safety (Police, Fire, EMA, dollars in a fiscally responsible and E-911) Budget review took manner has and will always be a place on March 4, 2014. The Public priority for the Village of Westchester. Works, Utility Fund, and Motor Fuel Balancing revenue and expenditures Tax Fund were discussed on March among the various funds has been 18, 2014. Finally, the Administration, difficult. Over the past few years, Capital Improvements, Debt Service, this administration has been hit Hotel Motel Tax, and Police and Fire with more weather related natural Commission budgets were discussed disasters than ever before including; on April 1st. two flood events, micro bursts, a snow blizzard, and this winter The entire budget will be presented one of the snowiest and coldest in at the April 8, 2014 regularly history. Through it all, we have been scheduled Committee of the able to maintain our 30% reserve in Whole Meeting and final adoption our General Fund and 15% reserve is scheduled for the Village Board in our Utility Fund. Being faced Meeting on April 22, 2014. with additional costs for garbage

Seeking grant dollars to fund projects is an ongoing process. We were fortunate to receive 400 plus thousand dollars for a new rescue fire vehicle. We received another 250 thousand dollars to be used to purchase a whole building generator for the village hall communications equipment, and a fire alarm system to compliment the sprinkler system presently in place at the village hall.

OPEN COMMUNICATION Communicating with the people we serve is a critical function of governance. We have expanded the capabilities of our website, attached links to other governmental partners, and have been maintaining a calendar of events and happenings.

Our village newsletter has been expanded to a monthly publication with what I believe to be valuable information on a monthly basis. We have been videotaping our board meetings and making them available on-line through the Village’s YouTube channel, as soon as practicable. On several occasions I have done a “Westchester World” taping with various representatives from ComEd, MWRD and others who provided valuable information and at the least answered some of your questions.

We offer the NIXLE notification system to alert you to the happenings in Westchester. On occasion, based

on the necessity of contact we have utilized robo-type phone calls to notify you about emergency situations. Village staff continues to work diligently to expand and improve our communication efforts with our residents and businesses.

COMMUNITY SERVICES In addition to some of the aforementioned information above, we have embarked on a villagewide tree trimming program that we completed last spring. Incidently, we have started trimming again in the Britten (northeast quadrant) area recently and will be removing (hopefully to a less extent than done 5 years ago) additional growth that would impact the safety of the residents in that area. Our Public Works in house staff has been removing affected Ash Trees as well on the village owned parkways. Our in house arborist Steve Crowley is available to do tree assessments throughout the village and has been meeting with residents with our Supervisor Carl Muell in determining the best course of action involving our tree stock and the enhancements trees make to the beautiful canopy of our tree lined streets. The village has and will continue to offer a 50/50 cost splitting arrangement with

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residents wanting to have a parkway tree on the front parkways. It is a well known fact that trees and their root structures have significant value in absorbing hundreds of gallons of water during rain events.The amount of leaves being dropped in the fall and the amount of maintenance surrounding tree ownership whether on public or private property, pales when compared to the benefits of removing contaminants from our atmosphere, producing oxygen we breathe, providing shade in the summer that reduces air conditioning costs, providing sound deadening properties, winter warming, privacy screening, obstructs, filters, and wind deflection.

Many people do not realize that trees and shrubs that are damaged or destroyed have a dollar value. If your trees and shrubs are damaged you may be able to recapture your loss through an insurance claim or as a deduction from your federal income tax.

Westchester tree stock creates the beautiful look we have become accustomed to. Driving down a tree lined street with the trees creating a canopy as they touch each other in the middle creates a value not measurable in quantitative terms.

Aesthetic and uplifted good feelings are certainly an emotional benefit that trees and shrubs provide.

The village leaf bag program was reinstituted with volunteers including elected officials and service groups assisting in the delivery efforts. The leaf bags were purchased with a 10 thousand dollar rebate given by our waste hauler Waste Management. The bags make it possible for residents to remove the vast amount of leaves from entering our street storm sewers. We have also received an additional 10 thousand dollars from Waste Management for our enhanced recycling efforts throughout the village. We instituted the pharmaceutical proper disposal program which is available 24/7 in the lobby of Village Hall, Electronics recycling the second Saturday of each month from April through October, recycling wood chips, and tree logs. Additionally we have held two paper shredding events with the next one scheduled for May 10, 2014 in conjunction with the electronics recycling program.

SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT

Speaking of recycling efforts, several weeks ago we received some inquiries both seeking information others downright nasty regarding why the Village would force both Divine Infant and Divine Providence to cease operation of their paper recycling programs.

The truth of the matter is that the village did NOT require any such thing.

HISTORY Last summer several clothing boxes mysteriously appeared along Mannheim Road and along Roosevelt Road without the knowledge, consent, or any approval from anyone. Several complaints were received as it appeared the village was being cluttered with these type of boxes. Prior to the arrival of the ones on Mannheim Road on several occasions I personally made calls to the GAIA owned clothing box that was located at the video store at Westchester Blvd. and Roosevelt asking them to please empty the box as clothing toys etc were being stacked up alongside the box. This occurred at least 3 times that I know I personally made a call only to talk to an answering machine and having to wait several days before the problem was rectified.

After the new pink boxes appeared along Mannheim Road the village board put in place some reasonable operating and placement instructions. Those instructions were to have the box owner register with the village as a contractor, which cost $100.00, they were also required to supply an insurance certificate with 10 thousand dollar coverage. The placement had to be in the rear of the property unless the boxes were located in a different area prior to the ordinance being approved, thereby being grandfathered in their current location until there was a change.

injured by accidently running into or injuring their arm while dumping the papers in should be a hardship for one of the most prominent paper recycling ventures in the area.

During the conversation we were then told that he was not making the money he was anticipating and would be talking to the venues where the boxes were located and renegotiating the price he was going to be providing them. He said based on the cost of the insurance it would not be as profitable.

I contacted our Waste Management representative and attempted to locate another vendor who recycles paper for such a rebate to the schools. My contact told me the biggest one that does it is the one that I was talking about not wanting to provide the insurance.

My contact did confirm that the commodity market on paper is real low with the cost of pick-up and drop-off exceeding any profit. In essence, confirming the statement of the possible renegotiation.

I hope this puts to rest the issue and I would hope that people call and get the facts before expounding half truths and misinformation.

EXPANDING VILLAGE HOURS The village hours were initially expanded in 2009 to include staying open one night a week until 7pm and from 9 am to Noon on Saturday.

We did this for over a year and it was determined not to be cost effective.

Presently, we have discontinued the evening hours but are open on the second Saturday of each month to correspond with the Administrative Hearings surrounding code and parking type infractions.

The Saturday hours are 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM on the second Saturday of the month.

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done in the Village. O Our newly reconstituted Environmental Sustainability Commission (ESC) is making every attempt to enhance the quality of live through not only recycling efforts but bringing to the table additional information to utilize storm water for your benefit.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE HOSTS SEMINAR On Wednesday, April 30, 2014 at 7:00 PM at the Westchester Primary School,(Mary Jane Kennedy Building), the Environmental Sustainability Commission will be hosting a seminar designed to educate us on how to deal with stormwater on our property. Representatives from the Village Public Works Department, Fire Department, and Building Department MWRD, FEMA, Ms. Harriet Festing, the Director Water Program of the Center for NeighborhoodTechnology,Plumbing Contractors, Including our Plumbing Inspector Andy Espositio will be on hand to answer questions on other ways storm water can be utilized.

The ESC will be presenting a panel type discussion to include the use of rain barrels to assist in the reduction of water usage and promote the use of rain gardens for drainage issues.

MY PET PROJECTS FOR THE UPCOMING YEAR As we work through the budget process I along with the board of trustees will be once again struggling or at the least juggling to complete some projects I have been pushing since being elected to office.

Expanding the Mayfair Reservoir is at the top of the list. The project THINKING GREEN SOLUTIONS FOR has a 2.5 million dollar price tag.

THE FUTURE Based on our estimates MWRD will INVESTIGATION As mentioned above the village take the lion share of $2.1 million After being told on several occasions continually attempting to and Westchester’s match close to that the village made the company is take the paper boxes out along improve our global responsibility of $500K. The painting of the Water tank is with Village Manager Janet Matthys thinking Green. Our Environmental personally called the owner of the Sustainability Commission Chaired next on the agenda with the IEPA company, who as it turned out had 8 by Carl Celestino, and includes offering us a low interest loan of boxes covering DI, DP, Park District, members Jean Klotter, Eric Keeley, about 2% to complete the 2nd phase Library and others in town. I asked Ali Rothbaum, Tom Elsey, Denis of the project. We petitioned the IEPA him why he was removing the paper McLain, and Ashley Sabat as well as in 2010 to paint both the inside and boxes from their locations and he Village Board liaison Trustee Angelo outside as it had not been painted said he did not want to comply Calcago was formerly named the since its installation in the mid with the insurance regulation. We Green Committee then organized by 1980’s. An inspection indicated that the interior needed to be attended to informed him that that the $100.00 Trustee Wally Novak. first followed by the exterior which contractor fee would cover all of the In May of 2012 the Village is finally being completed. The price boxes he had and that the insurance received the tag for the outside is $850K. certificate would cover the same. It of Westchester did not appear to us that requiring GREENTELLIGENCE Award from the insurance to protect the property West Central Municipal Conference See PRESIDENT, page 13 owner and any person that may be for all of the improvements we had

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Crackdown on illegal conversions of two-flat buildings in Westchester Over the years there have been reports of 2-flat buildings being converted into 3-flat buildings with basements being used as a domicile.

Such conversions not only result in overcrowding, but are outright illegal and very dangerous. When a complaint is received regarding an alleged illegal conversion, our Community Development Department makes personal visits to these residences and informs the building owners and occupants that such conversions, if they exist, are illegal and in violation of the Village Ordinances and present dangerous safety issues.

Any landlord of a 2-flat building who converts the basement to livable space and rents the space or allows people to reside in that area of the building without proper zoning, permits

and inspections are in violation of the Village’s Ordinances and may be subject to legal prosecution.

Basements in 2-flat buildings often result in overcrowding and do not have the requisite egress needed in case of an emergency. This overcrowding and lack of egress presents a definite safety hazard. In case of fire, without proper egress those in the illegal unit could become trapped and succumb to the smoke and/or fire. The bottom line here is that conversions of 2-flat buildings without proper zoning, permit and inspection are ILLEGAL and need to be REMOVED IMMEDIATELY. If the building owners need further guidance please contact our Community Development Director, Melissa Headley at 708-3450020.

Choose Westchester Businesses First Did you know that all the businesses that hold a current business license are listed on the Village’s website?

You can search for businesses by name or by category. Just go to www. westchester-il.org under the business

tab choose“Local Businesses”.Are you a business owner in the Community and don’t see your business listed?

Give us a call 708-345-0199 or email at mheadley@westchester-il.org and we’ll make sure to include you.

Reminder: Permit Required for Garage Sales The Village does require a permit for all garage/ house or yard/ rummage/ and estate sales.

The permit applicant must acknowledge and comply with all municipal ordinances, and sign application to this effect.

The Village issued permit must be posted in visible location at the stated sale.

The permit grants the Village the right of entry for inspection, if deemed necessary.

The permit number must be displayed, on any signs advertising the sale, in

a conspicuous place to be viewable by anyone upon a public street or sidewalk adjacent to the premises.

Residents are allowed to have two garage sales per calendar year.

A garage sale is limited to three consecutive days.

The sale hours shall be no earlier than 8:00 a.m. and no later than 4:00 p.m.

For more information please call the Village Community Development Department - (708) 345-0199 or visit the department page at www. westchester-il.org.

Be prepared for storms and lightning this spring April showers, bring May flowers.

The Village wants to remind residents to be prepared for thunderstorms and lightning.

To prepare for thunderstorms and lightning you should do the following: • The following are things you can do to protect yourself, your family and your property before thunderstorms and lightning occurs: • Before Thunderstorm and Lightning • To prepare for a thunderstorm, you should do the following: • To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.

• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.

• Postpone outdoor activities.

• Remember the 30/30 Lightning Safety Rule: Go indoors if, after seeing lightning, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder. Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.

• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.

• Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.

• Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning.

However, the steel frame of a hardtopped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.

• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.

• Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.

Information above was prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). For more tips on what to do during and after thunderstorms and lightning, please check the FEMA’s website at http:// www.ready.gov/thunderstormslightning

Did you know...The History of Tax Day? Federal income tax was introduced with the Revenue Act of 1861 to help fund the Civil War, and subsequently repealed, re-adopted, and held unconstitutional. The early taxes were based on assessments, not voluntary tax returns. Tax payment dates varied by act.

The case of Pollock v. Farmers’ Loan & Trust Co. challenged the constitutionality of the WilsonGorman Tariff Act of 1894 which taxed incomes over $4,000 at the rate of two percent.The case was decided by the United States Supreme Court in 1895.The Supreme Court decided that the Act’s unapportioned income taxes on interest, dividends, and rents were effectively direct taxes. The Act was therefore unconstitutional because it violated the Constitution’s rule that direct taxes be apportioned.

In 1913, eighteen years later, the Sixteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution was ratified. This Amendment gave the United States Congress the legal authority to tax all incomes without regard to the apportionment requirement.

The filing deadline for individuals was March 1 in 1913 (the first year of a federal income tax), and was changed to March 15 in 1918 and

again to April 15 in 1955. Today, the filing deadline for U.S. federal income tax returns for individuals remains April 15 or, in the event that the 15th falls on a Saturday, Sunday or holiday, the first succeeding day that is not a Saturday, Sunday or holiday.

In 2007, Tax Day was on Tuesday, April 17, 2007 because April 15 fell on a Sunday and Monday, April 16 was Emancipation Day, a legal holiday in the District of Columbia. Under a federal statute enacted decades ago, holidays observed in the District of Columbia have an impact nationwide, not just in D.C. A storm and flooding affected the Northeast that year and certain states were granted additional time to file. In some cases, the deadline was extended to as late as June 25. In 2011, the federal tax deadline was extended to April 18, since Emancipation Day, a holiday in Washington, D.C., was celebrated on April 15, a Friday. (Wikipedia) The April 15 tax deadline is set by statute. However, the IRS reminds taxpayers that anyone can request an automatic six-month extension to file their tax return.The request is easily done with Form 4868, which can be filed electronically or on paper.

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PRESIDENT Continued from page 7

The relocation of the Sanitary Sewer line that feeds more than 1/3 of the village that was unable to be cleaned and televised, as it runs through the property of the Cook County Forest Preserve District from Wakefield and Sunnyside through LaGrange Park, is another high priced project that needs to be addressed to relieve sanitary sewer back-ups during storm events. The pipe crossed the Salt Creek at several locations and has not been touched or maintained since its installation way back in the 1950’s or even earlier when that area was a platted subdivision of the Village of Westchester. The relocation of the approximate 1 mile sanitary pipe is $2.2 million dollars.

We applied for and received another IEPA low interest loan to complete this project.

There have had many meetings with our engineering firm of Christopher Burke Engineering, the CCFPD, Conservation groups, the Village of La Grange Park, IDNR, and others over the past few years and we have finally come to some resolution.

Hopefully construction will begin next fall with a completion date of next spring.

to Federal Dollars received from the STP Transportation monies. The project is estimated to cost $810K with the village share being $162K, meaning 80% or $648K is being paid by the FEDS. The 2014 Pavement program consisting of the concrete portion and asphalt and parkway restoration is awaiting the actual bids to be received at this writing. The total project is estimated to be $2.5 Million dollars.

The majority of the monies for this project will the last portion of the available $5.8 Million we bonded for in 2012 coupled with some monies from our Motor Fuel Tax Fund and General Revenue.

Do to our high volume water loss of 8.6% we are employing a village wide leak detection service to identify where the underground leaks are located. This water loss is the difference from what the BroadviewWestchester Joint Water Agency meters show they sent, and what we have billed for. By identifying the water loss whether it be underground leaks, inoperative water meters with inaccurate readings our costs need to decrease. We are investigating a remote radio read system to make this happen. We believe that we can enhance our service to you by going After receiving grant dollars we to a monthly billing cycle instead will finally be installing a fire alarm of a quarterly one as I believe it system to the Westchester Village becomes easier to budget for the Hall, and installing a whole building increasing cost of water. I just generator to operate our village received my approximately $150 hall as an emergency center with dollar bill for the 4 thousand gallons provisions for both heating and my household used last quarter and cooling as well as a location that would have rather paid $50 dollars can be up and running in case of a per month instead of getting his for disaster. This is a long time coming the 3 month cost. Additionally the as I can remember getting annual system which will include the ability quotes for generators to run our to read the meters remotely each 9-11 Emergency operations almost month will catch potential high on a yearly basis back in the 1990’s usage which can be addressed more when managing the 911 operations quickly. We are presently reviewing center. this program of installing a small transmission box to the sending unit As a result of our televising our attached outside of your home. No sanitary sewer system and relining decisions have been made however project in the south east “Nixon” we believe identifying the water loss area of the village a sanitary sewer and potentially eliminating the staff on Portsmouth Ave. was identified time spent walking door to door as needing to be rebuilt. The each quarter will pay for itself in the approximate 300 foot section is long run.

13 feet down and will take several weeks to complete. We could probably do the job in-house with SENIOR BREAKFAST HELD MARCH the experienced PW crew we have, 14th however, time constraints will cause On Friday, March 14th, the Village this project t to be outsourced to be completed in a more rapid time Held its annual Senior Breakfast frame. The cost is estimated to be at 8:30 AM. St. Joseph High School was once again willing to allow the $65K. Village to host the event at their The rebuilding of Enterprise Drive facility. This was the third year the will be taking place this year thanks Village has held this program and

each year, the attendance grows. I, along with the department heads and committee representatives answered questions and concerns and presented information on how each department operates and what to expect moving forward into our next fiscal year.

Thank you to all the residents who attended the event, we hope that you found it informative. A special thanks to St. Joseph High School President Dave McCreery, and Manager of Development Operations Stephanie Morton, from St. Joseph High School in being such gracious host and Village staff Molly Keane and Katy Finn for organizing the event.

Additionally many thanks to our local food vendors Wally’s Donuts and Dunkin Donuts for providing and donating a portion of the food for the event and Westchester Civic Theater for donating a raffle package.

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Mattone Restaurant 9 E. 31st Street LaGrange Park, Illinois. 60526 TX: 708-352-7588 Seating is from 4:30pm to 5:00pm after the show.

Show ticket prices are $13.00 for adults, seniors and students with ID are $11.00.With your reservation and ticket stub you will receive 20% off of your meal. Coffee, tea, ice tea or soda is no charge. Alcoholic beverages, taxes and tip are not included. More information is available at www. westchesterplays.com or 708-9285010. Reservations will be accepted up to 2 days before the show date; dinner is after performance; show and dinner must be paid separately.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SUMMIT MEETING

On Thursday, March 20, 2014, the Village Economic Development Committee (EDC) held a business summit at the Westchester The 10 acre parcel that encompasses Community Church.

Several the grounds of the OLD St. Joseph businesses, some old and some new, H.S. is very close to being sold. St. were present to hear Chairperson Joseph President Dave McCreary, Pastor Joseph Mills and the entire and members of the Three Corners EDC Board provide an overview Development Company introduced on what the committee has been themselves to the Village Board at working on. our March 11, 2014 Board Meeting.

Design plans are currently being Several initiatives that can be drawn to create a senior living considered EDC accomplishments space on the site. The village is are as follows: very excited to hopefully see this Façade Grants, implementation of project move forward and come to a Ribbon Cutting Policy, Wayfinding fruition as soon as possible. As more Signage; Tree Planting Policies; and information becomes available it will the Business Retention Survey certainly be shared to the public.

Summary.

Information for businesses was provided regarding: Upgrading the ST. JOSEPH H.S. HOSTS Building Codes from the 2009 Illinois CHARGERFEAST 2014 Building Code to the 2012 version, Rules and Regulations; Infrastructure The annual spring fundraising Improvements; Permitting Processes; event at St. Joseph will take place and Improved Communication on Saturday, April 26, 2014. The 3rd between the Village and Businesses.

Annual CHARGERFEAST featuring Business Promotion and Support is a Ribfest Cook-Off and Super Raffle made available through the Village Drawing where $23,500 will be given Newsletter and Event Sponsorship; away in cash prizes.All proceeds will the Village Website; and through the help educate the young men and Chamber of Commerce. women of St. Joseph H.S. through the financial assistance program. Please Some business entities did have join us for this great event sure to be constructive criticism of the length “finger licking good.” of time it took for the review of their plans, and the turn- around time it took for minimal changes WESTCHESTER CIVIC THEATRE IS to be approved. Melissa Headley, BACK AT ST. JOSEPH H.S. our Community Development Director, indicated that she would On Sunday April 27th and again be monitoring this and that preon Sunday May 4th the Westchester construction meeting have been Civic Theatre will present “THE held in the past and will continue in FOREIGNER.” Come see the 2:00 pm an effort to streamline the process. show and enjoy a dinner afterwards See PRESIDENT, page 14 at:

OLD ST. JOSEPH H.S. CLOSE TO BEING SOLD

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PRESIDENT Continued from page 13

ELECTRONICS RECYCLING IS BACK Saturday, April 12th, from 9am to noon will kick off this year’s Village E-Waste (electronics recycling) events which are sponsored by the Environmental Sustainability Commission. Computers, television sets, phones, laptops, printers, scanners, video games and basically anything electronic.This year,the ESC will also be collecting non-perishable food items for the Westchester Food Pantry at the recycling drop site. This event is intended for the recycling of household items. Due to safety concerns of our volunteers, business related items may be refused. Volunteers are always welcome to assist the commission in accomplishing our goal to reduce landfill space, comply with state laws, and protect our environment. Please note that the set hours of 9:00am to 12:00pm are subject to change based on weather conditions. We do not want to put any volunteers in any danger that may be caused by inclement weather. Any questions or to help volunteer, please contact Carl Celestino at cwolves94@yahoo. com.

ARBOR DAY Arbor Day was founded in 1872 by Julius Sterling Morton in Nebraska City, Nebraska. By the 1920s, each state in the United States had passed public laws that stipulated a certain day to be Arbor Day or Arbor and Bird Day observance.

National Arbor Day is celebrated every year on the last Friday in April; in Nebraska, it is a civic holiday.

Each state celebrates its own state holiday. The customary observance is to plant a tree. On the first Arbor Day, April 10, 1872, an estimated one million trees were planted.

Thursday, April 24th from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM at the Westchester Public Library, 10700 Canterbury Street. For more information, or to RSVP, please contact Rep. Welch’s full-time constituent service office at 708-450-1000 or email repwelch@ emanuelchriswelch.com.

to hear Illinois Governor Pat Quinn present his 2014 Budget Address.

Our State Representative Chris Welch was able to secure passes to the event and we were able to sit in the House of Representatives Chambers during the Governor’s presentation.

VILLAGE CLEAN-UP DAY

Wednesday afternoon, the mayors were invited into the Governor’s office to meet one-on-one with the Governor himself and ask for state assistance to fund our projects. As you can imagine, most of the requests were for funding surrounding our regions recent flood events, followed by monies for road and infrastructure improvements. I can assure you that the Governor knows the flooding problems surrounding both the east and south side of Westchester. I was assured that Westchester’s storm water issues were a high priority. So much so that another mayor chimed in that Westchester can’t get all of the monies, to which I replied yes we can, but that I would be happy to share with other communities.

Saturday, April 26th, has been designated as a Village wide cleanup day. Several service groups have been invited to assist with our spring clean-up and once again this year, the Village’s lawn maintenance contractor,Alliance Turf Management will also be assisting. We are always in need of extra assistance at our events, please contact Molly Keane at mkeane@westchester-il.org or 708-345-0020 to volunteer your time, effort and energy. The event will take place from 8 am until noon and a light lunch will be provided to volunteers following the event.

SAVE THE DATE FOR THE SECOND CINCO DE MAYO FIESTA The first event for the 2014 season will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2014. This event will be the Cinco de Mayo Fiesta held at the north end of Gladstone Park from 12 pm to 8 pm. The Fiesta will include entertainment lineup of a Mariachi Band, Pinatas for the kids, salsa and bachata lessons as well as deliciously themed food. This event was made possible by the collaboration of the Village, Park District, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Westchester School District 92.5.

I hope you have time to stop by the event and celebrate with us.

WCMC LEGISLATIVE DRIVE-DOWN

As a result of hearing the Governor’s speech regarding the catastrophic effect that a repeal of the 2011 Income Tax hike would have on the state’s finances, I suggested to the Governor that if the tax was to stay in place that local government receive their fair share of the tax and not be cut out of the what was put in place years ago to assist municipalities in funding projects necessary to improve the quality of life in those communities. Based on my frank and pressing comments, Janet, Angelo and I had a private meeting with the Governor’s staff, Michael Richards and Cory Foster on Thursday morning to further express our concerns. We will be sending our Home Flood Assistance Grant Program that we put in place last year to assist homeowners in the installation of check valves, overhead sewers and lift stations for funding consideration.

Also while in Springfield, our entourage met many State Representatives, State Senators and Representatives of IDOT, DCEO, and the IEPA. I would like to take time to thank our State Representative for the 7th District, Emanuel “Chris” Welch, 11th District State Senator Martin Sandoval, 12th District Senator Steven Landek, and most of all WCMC Executive Director Richard Pellegrino and the excellent staff at WCMC for making this Legislative Drive Down a worhtwhile success.

Each year theWest Central Municipal Conference (WCMC) sponsors a Legislative Day in Springfield, Illinois.

On Wednesday, March 26, 2014, I, along with Village Manager Janet Matthys, Trustees Angelo Calcagno, Frank Perry and Tom Yurkovich, REPRESENTATIVE WELCH TO HOLD joined Mayors and elected officials CONCEAL AND CARRY TOWN HALL from Berwyn, Lyons, LaGrange Park, MEETING LaGrange, Elmwood Park, Harwood Heights, River Grove, Indian Head I have been informed that Park, Countryside, Western Springs, Representative Welch along with Forest Park and Northlake to show representatives from the NRA support for our Legislative initiatives (National Rifle Association), Illinois that I presented in the March issue Council Against Handgun Violence, of the newsletter. Members of the Illinois State Police and Moms Northwest Municipal Conference Demand Action for Gun “Sense in and the Will County Municipal America for a community Town Hall Conference were also present Meeting on Illinois’ new Concealed in Springfield to advance their Carry Law. The Westchester Town respective legislative initiatives. WESTCHESTER’S OWN MAKES Hall Meeting will be held on Additionally, we had an opportunity A DIFFERENCE

For the second year in a row, Dr. Thomas Sullivan and a group of committed doctors and medical staff traveled to South America to provide dental and medical care to the poor.

At the recent St. Patrick’s Dinner at Divine Infant, Dr. Sullivan shared with me the humbling experience he and his group of fellow medical professionals encountered as hundreds of people including both adults and children walked from miles around to be seen by the team of doctors. Thank you, Dr. Sullivan.

THANK YOU FOR THE INVITE I would like to thank the principal, staff and especially the children at the Westchester Primary School for inviting me, Police Chief John Carpino and Fire Chief Jim Adams to be guest readers last month. You have no idea how much I enjoy reading to the children in the very same rooms I sat in while attending the school back in the mid 1960’s.

My parents always said “Readers are Leaders” and I commend the staff for their continued effort to make our children “Leaders” through “Reading”.

VIDEO GAMING Just for your information, I, along with the majority of the Westchester Village Board, have issued a second Video Gaming License to Westchester eating establishments. 5 Video Gaming machines and license were issued in February to Anna’s Place Café, an eatery located across from the Westchester Village Hall. A second license with 4 machines was issued to Christopher’s Speakeasy, located on south Mannheim Road, at our March 24th Board Meeting.

Per our ordinance, a hearing was held before me as the Liquor Commissioner and with my approval and recommendation to the Board of Trustees, was voted on and approved.

We wish both of the venues success as 5% of the proceeds that come back to the Village will be used to help fund our liabilities for police and fire pensions. Both locations have plenty of seating; exciting food menus, and a pleasant atmosphere.

Buon appetito!

ELECTRIC BILL SURCHARGE You may have seen news stories recently regarding higher electric bills this winter. The stories have reported that some electric suppliers are passing through a portion of their increased costs to customers. One of the articles stated, “...FirstEnergy,

See PRESIDENT, page 22

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School

School District news and notes APRIL 2014

Destination Imagination Westchester District 92 ½ has continued to offer the Destination ImagiNation program to all students interested at the Intermediate and Middle Schools. Destination ImagiNation is an educational program in which student teams solve open-ended challenges and present their solutions at tournaments.

19

2.

Official Birth Certificate - A child must be five (5) years old on or before September 1, 2014. No exceptions to this rule can be made.

3.

Required Residency Documents

The forms for the required school physical, dental, and vision examinations are included in the kindergarten registration packets.

This year, five teams were created. These forms must be completed The team names were: Kool Katz and turned in at the registration in (WMS), Wrecking Warriors (WMS), August. The days and times for this Test Dummies (WIS), The Mysterious registration and fee payment will be World Lifters (WIS), and The announced at a later date.

Impossibles (WIS).

If further information is needed, Teams were presented with 6 please call the School Office at (708) different challenges with special 562-1509. focuses in the areas of technical, science, fine arts, improvisation, In honor of Dr. Seuss’s birthday, we structural and service learning. Each were fortunate to have the following team picked one challenge and community members come to our developed a solution to present at school to read and discuss the works the tournament. All the teams chose of Dr. Seuss with our children. A the structural challenge. The teams wonderful and enriching time was had to build a structure made entirely had by all. of glue and predetermined materials.

Mayor Sam Pulia They then had to test the structure by Police Chief John Carpino placing weights on it and subjected it Fire Chief James Adams to to torque-inducing impacts.

School Board President Claire Thompson Additionally, all teams completed School Board members Carolyn an on-site Instant Challenge that was Wilhight and Don Slager revealed at the tournament. Instant School Resource Officer Rob Verber Challenges may be performanceWEF member Eric Schmidt based, task-based or a combination Westchester Librarian Kris Jacobson of the two. Each team practiced for the Instant Challenges at school by Business Office completing activities that developed The District is once again looking their creative problem solving and at the budget process and utilizing time management strategies, as well a zero based budget process as laid as teamwork. out to the Board of Education in the February finance committee. The On March 1st, the teams traveled process is designed to provide the to the DestiNation Imagination funds for the areas of instruction Tournament in Grayslake. Each team that are in need of materials and met their challenge head on, and not spending on areas that do not through much diversity, the Middle have the great need for instructional School team “Wreaking Warriors” expenditures. The District has had won the “Spirit of DI” team award success this last year using this model for showing great teamwork and DI in reducing the expenditures in all the spirit. We are very proud of all our buildings thus being able to maintain teams. a balanced budget.

Mayor Sam Pulia, Police Chief John Carpino, Fire Chief James Adams, School Board President, Claire Thompson, School Board members Carolyn Wilhight, Don Slager, School Resource Officer Rob Verber, WEF member Eric Schmidt and Westchester Librarian Kris Jacobson gather to celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday.

plan in conjunction with the district architect on the renovations needed in each building.

School began the Illinois Standard Achievement Test (ISAT) on Tuesday, March 4th and will conclude on March 12th. This is the last year for State of the District the ISATs, as next year all Illinois The administrative team of public schools will be phasing in the Westchester District 92½ presented new Partnership for Assessment of the “state of the district” to the School Readiness for College and Careers Board of Education on Tuesday, March (PARCC) tests. A major difference 4. The presentation highlighted data between the tests will be a change on student achievement, district in questions designed to be more initiatives, Special Education, the challenging and push students to Response to Intervention (RtI) model, use higher level critical thinking and data supporting the successful skills, while also pushing students implementation of the Positive to become more proficient with Behavior Intervention System (PBIS) technology, as tests will be taken in all three schools. Officer Rob on computer rather than traditional Verber, the School Resource Officer paper and pencil.

(SRO) presented on his first year in the role of SRO. Also included in the Aside from testing, the Intermediate presentation was the financial state School has begun to offer an of the district, technology and the inquiry-based project for students. strategic planning process the district Students selected have the chance is currently undergoing. to increase their investigation skills by incorporating reading and writing The Superintendent, Dr. Michael into their weekly curriculum. This Dziallo had the principals present design promotes deeper inquiry and MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) a richer experience for students. data to the School Board. Principals weaved this year’s district initiatives The Intermediate School Boys’ into their presentation of student Basketball team will look to continue data. its winning ways by completing their Overall, students showed strong season undefeated—the only team academic progress on MAP over in the George Washington Middle Westchester Primary School The District will also be exploring the last school year. The Director of School tournament to do so. Good On March 6th, we held our methods for paying for renovations to Curriculum presented trend data on luck! The Girls’ team will look to push Kindergarten registration for the the buildings over the next 3-5 years. ISAT the 2005-2006 school year to their opponents and complete a hard 2014-2015 school year. If you were The Business Office has currently the 2012-2013 school year. fought, but fun season. unable to attend, we encourage you applied for $350,000 dollars of grant to stop by our office and pick up a money from the State of Illinois to do The district has posted the power The WPTC will be holding a second packet. renovations on the buildings. These point presentation on their website. Book Fair on March 17thand 19th. grants are for safety, and energy www.sd925.org > Board of Education While on March 18th, teachers and To register for kindergarten this fall, efficiency for the buildings in the > Board Presentation > State of the parents look forward to holding a you will need to have the following: district. This is just one avenue the District. second round of parent conferences. district is exploring for the funding of Spring break officially begins after 1.

Completed Registration the renovations of the buildings. The Westchester Intermediate School school on Friday, March 21st with Packet school board has developed a master Westchester Intermediate classes resuming on March 31st.

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APRIL 2014

Monday, April 7 Flea Market registration has begun, for Rain or Shine Flea Market that will be held on Saturday, June 7th, 2014 at Westchester Community Church, 1840 Westchester Blvd., Westchester. Rent space to sell your own items, $35, $20 or $15. Call the church office 708-865-1282 for more information.

Lenten Evening Mass, 7:00 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair Reconciliation (Confession), 7:308:30 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

Monday, April 7 through Friday, May 30, 2014 Each Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 4:00 PM -6:00 PM at the Gottlieb Center for Fitness.

Loyola University Health System has teamed up with ProActiveKids (PAK) Foundation to help children and their families in the battle against obesity by offering a free program for children who have a body mass index (BMI) in the 85th percentile or higher. To enroll visit www.proactivekids.org. For more information email info@ proactivekids.org or call (630) 6811558.

Tuesday, April 8 Ladies Bible Study – Proverbs 31 from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Westchester Bible Church,10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org The Divine Infant Jesus School student body will be praying the rosary – 12:30 pm at Divine Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Newcastle Avenue. For more information, contact the school office at 8650122.

Village Board Meeting at 7:00 PM in the Village Hall Court Room with the Committee of the Whole Meeting immediately following.

Wednesday, April 9 BAR-W (Grades 1ST-6TH) & AMBASSADORS (Grades 7th–12th) from 6:45 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Westchester Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org Adult Bible Study/Pray Meeting from 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Westchester Bible Church,10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org

mass at 8:45. For more information, 12/ Children 2 and under-Free! Early contact the school office at 865- Bird Special: $1.00 off all tickets purchased at the door between the 0122. hours of 7-8:30 AM. Easter Candy The LWV of the LaGrange Area and Egg Hunt for children aged 2-10 presents: FLAT OR FAIR -- INCOME begins at Noon Sharp!

Palm Sunday Mass, 5:00 PM, at TAX REFORM IN ILLINOIS at 7:00 PM, La Grange Public Library, 10 W Divine Providence Church, 2600 Cossit Ave., LaGrange, IL.Will discuss Mayfair how tax policy can be fairer for all Electronics Recycling/Food Drive income level families and stimulate (E-Waste) held at Village Hall, much needed economic growth.

10300 West Roosevelt Road, from Family Film Night featuring “Percy 9:00 AM-12:00 PM. Sponsored by Jackson: Sea of Monsters” 6:30 PM the Environmental Sustainability at Library. Contact Youth Dept or Commission This year, please bring a donation call 708-562-3573. for the food pantry along with Divine Providence and Grace your recycling items. All nonLutheran Ecumenical Discussion, perishable items will be donated to 11:30 AM, Divine Providence the Westchester Food Pantry. This event is intended for the recycling Ministry Center, 2540 Mayfair household items for safety concerns Tai Chi Class, Divine Providence of our volunteers Business related Church Narthex, 4:30 PM, 2600 items may be refused.Any questions or to help volunteer, please contact Mayfair Carl Celestino at cwolves94@yahoo.

Open House Evening 3:30PM com.

- 6:00PM Immanuel Christian Save the date...for Soccer FUN. Academy 2329 S.Wolf Road Hillside, Westchester AYSO Region 1438 IL Everyone Plays...Everyone Wins!

Tablegrace will present “A Save, affordable...and memories Holocaust Memorial Program” at the that last a lifetime. AYSO has been Divine Providence Church Ministry the first name in youth soccer since Center. (The building in the back of 1964-now celebrating 50 years! the church) from 11:30 AM to 1:00 Plan to be a part of the excitement!

PM. Bring a Sandwich. Refreshments Westchester AYSO onsite soccer registration for boys and girls ages will be served. Come and join us.

4-18 will be held from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, at Immanuel Lutheran Thursday, April 10 School Gym, 2329 S. Wolf Road.

Big Read Book Discussion of “The Early bird registration fee is $80.00.

Longest Road” by Phil Caputo 7:00 Cost includes insurance, uniform, PM at Library. Contact Adult Dept trophy and more! For complete or call 708-562-3573. registration information, visit www.

Friday, April 11 westchesterayso.org. New this yearReformer’s Unanimous – RU from online credit card payment option 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at Westchester (for a nominal convenience fee)!

Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Sunday, April 13 Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.

Morning Worship Service/Evening westchesterbiblechurch.org Worship Service from 10:45 a.m.

Living Stations (featuring Divine / 6:00 p.m. at Westchester Bible Infant 8th grade students) will Church, 10600 W. Cermak Rd., begin at 6:30 pm at Divine Infant Westchester, IL 60154 www.

Church, 1600 Newcastle Avenue. westchesterbiblechurch.org For more information, contact the Sunday School – “Experiencing school office at 865-0122.

God” Series from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. at Living Stations of the Cross, 2 and Westchester Bible Church, 10600 W. 7 PM, Divine Providence Church, Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org 2600 Mayfair

FREE Gospel Concert – Tim Parton from 10:45 – 11:45 a.m. & 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Westchester Breakfast with the Easter Bunny & Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Egg Hunt at Westchester Community Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.

All School mass at 8:00 am at Center Gym from 7:00 AM – Noon. westchesterbiblechurch.org Divine Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Event is co-sponsored by the Newcastle Avenue. Come join us. Westchester Kiwanis Club. Tickets Palm Sunday Masses, 8:30 and Stations of the Cross will follow the $6.00 Adult/ $4.00 Children under 10:30 AM, Sunday, Divine Providence

Saturday, April 12

Church, 2600 Mayfair

Monday, April 14 Reconciliation (Confession), 1:002:00 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair Lenten Evening Mass, 7:00 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

Tuesday, April 15 Ladies Bible Study - Proverbs 31 from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Westchester Bible Church,10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org Living Stations (featuring Divine Infant 8th grade students) will begin at 1:30 pm at Divine Infant Church, 1600 Newcastle Avenue.

For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122.

Wednesday, April 16 BAR-W (Grades 1ST-6TH) & AMBASSADORS (Grades 7th–12th) from 6:45 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Westchester Bible Church,10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org Adult Bible Study/Pray Meeting from 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Westchester Bible Church,10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org Family Film Night featuring “Adventures of the Penguin King” 6:30 PM at Library. Contact Youth Dept or call 708-562-3573.

Divine Providence and Grace Lutheran Ecumenical Discussion, 11:30 AM Grace Lutheran Church Activity Room, 1101 Manchester Tai Chi Class, 4:30 PM, Divine Providence Church Narthex, 2540 Mayfair Tenebrae Service, 7:30 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

Thursday, April 17 Maundy Thursday Service at 7:00 pm at Westchester Community Church Morning Prayer, 8:00 AM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair Mass of the Lord’s Supper, 7:30 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, 8:45 PM -- 11:00 PM (Night Prayer at 10:45 PM), Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

See CALENDAR, page 21

Calendar APRIL 2014

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www.westchesterbiblechurch.org Blessing of Easter Food, 1:00 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Market Day Pick-up 8:30-9:30 a.m.

Continued from page 20 Mayfair Divine Providence School, 2500 Mayfair Avenue, 708-562-2258, Teetering Tots Playgroup 9:30Easter Vigil and First Mass of Easter, www.divineprovidenceschool.org: 10:30 a.m. Teetering Tots would like 7:30 PM, Divine Providence Church, to welcome tots between the ages 2600 Mayfair Village Board Meeting at 7:00 of 0-4 to a playgroup in the Divine PM in the Village Hall Court Room Providence gym twice a month. Sunday, April 20 with the Committee of the Whole The group has been established to Meeting immediately following.

Easter Sunday Services at 8:00 am provide stay-at-home and part-time working parents with a local activity and 10:00 am - all are welcome at Wednesday, April 23 to promote friendships and provide Westchester Community Church BAR-W (Grades 1ST-6TH) & Morning Worship Service/Evening emotional support to parents with children in the early years of their Worship Service from 10:45 a.m. AMBASSADORS (Grades 7th–12th) live. We welcome the very young / 6:00 p.m. at Westchester Bible from 6:45 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at of Westchester, with a parent, into Church, 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester Bible Church,10600 W. Divine Providence School for some Westchester, IL 60154 www. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org entertainment and socialization. westchesterbiblechurch.org Parents are encouraged to bring Adult Bible Study/Pray Meeting FREE Easter Breakfast from any items from bottles to bears that will make the experience more 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. at Westchester from 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Westchester Bible Church,10600 W. enjoyable for their children.

Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 Friday, April 18 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org westchesterbiblechurch.org Good Friday Service at 7:00 pm at Westchester Community Church Market Day pick-up from 5:30 – Easter Sunday Masses, 7:30, 9:30 Reformer’s Unanimous – RU from and 11:30 AM, Divine Providence 6:30 pm in Langan Hall at Divine 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at Westchester Church, 2600 Mayfair Infant Jesus, 1640 Newcastle Avenue.

Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Call the rectory at 708-865-8071 for Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www. Monday, April 21 & more information. westchesterbiblechurch.org Tuesday, April 22 Family Film Night featuring “The Morning Prayer, 8:00 AM, Divine Book Thief” 6:30 PM at Library.

AARP Driver Safety Course from 9 Contact Youth Dept or call 708-562Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair am to 1 pm in the Community Room 3573.

Stations of the Cross, 3:00 PM, of Village Hall. (Parking is available Divine Providence Church, 2600 behind village hall and participants Divine Providence and Grace may use the Community Room Lutheran Ecumenical Discussion, Mayfair entrance.). The AARP Driver Safety 11:30 AM, Divine Providence, 2540 Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion, 7:30 Program is the nation’s first and Mayfair PM, Divine Providence Church, largest classroom course, designed especially for drivers age 50 and 2600 Mayfair Tai Chi Class, 4:30 PM, Divine older. However, the course is open Providence Church Narthex, 2600 Morning Prayer, 8:00 AM, Divine to licensed drivers of all ages. Course Mayfair completion helps older drivers Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair refine existing skills and develop Thursday, April 24 Stations of the Cross, 3:00 PM, safe driving strategies in today’s Town Hall Meeting at 10:00 AM at Divine Providence Church, 2600 challenging driving environment.

There are no tests required. The Library. State Representative Chris Mayfair cost of the program for AARP Welch will discuss new Illinois Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion, 7:30 members is $15.00, non members “Concealed Carry” law. Contact PM, Divine Providence Church, cost is $20.00. The course is open Adult Dept or call 708-562-3573.

Friday, April 25 to licensed drivers of all ages.

2600 Mayfair Reformer’s Unanimous – RU from However, the course size is limited Good Friday, No School, Divine to 35 people and reservations are 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at Westchester Providence School, 2500 Mayfair required. Please call Molly at Village Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Avenue, 708-562-2258, www. Hall (708) 345-0020 to reserve your Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www. westchesterbiblechurch.org spot! divineprovidenceschool.org: Village Hall Offices will be closed in observance of Good Friday

Monday, April 21 through Friday, April 25

Friday, April 18 through Friday, April 25

Easter Break - No School Divine Providence School, 2500 Mayfair Avenue, 708-562-2258, www. divineprovidenceschool.org: Tuesday, April 22 Ladies Bible Study – Proverbs 31 from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Westchester Bible Church,10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154

Divine Infant Jesus School is closed for Easter break. School will resume on Monday April 28th.

Saturday, April 19 Morning Prayer, 8:00 AM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

Saturday, April 26 Village-wide Spring Cleanup Day from 8 am to 12 pm! We are always in need of extra assistance at our events, please contact Molly Keane at mkeane@westchester-il. org or 708-345-0020 to volunteer your time, effort and energy. A light lunch will be provided to volunteers following the event.

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FREE Gospel Concert – The Blackwood Brothers from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Westchester Bible Church,10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www. westchesterbiblechurch.org Pizza Blast Fund Raiser from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Westchester Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www. westchesterbiblechurch.org. Call for Reservation: 708-562-3040, $5/ Adult, $3/4-10 yrs, FREE/3 and under Pitch, Hit and Run Program at Mayfair Park at 9:00 AM Butterflies Are Coming 2:00 PM at Library. Program for kids and parents with Stephanie Walquist of Monarch Watch. Contact Youth Dept or call 708-562-3573.

Welcome New Parishioners, after 5:00 Mass, Divine Providence Church Narthex, 2600 Mayfair

Sunday, April 27 Morning Worship Service/Evening Worship Service from 10:45 a.m. / 6:00 p.m. at Westchester Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www. westchesterbiblechurch.org Sunday School – “Experiencing God” Series from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. at Westchester Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org Welcome New Parishioners, after 8:30 and 10:30 Mass on Sunday, Divine Providence Church Narthex, 2600 Mayfair

Monday, April 28 Documentary Film Night featuring “Blind Spot: Hitler’s Secretary” at 7:00 pm at Library. Contact Adult Dept or call 708-562-3573.

Classes Resume 8:00 a.m. Divine Providence School, 2500 Mayfair Avenue, 708-562-2258, www. divineprovidenceschool.org:

Tuesday, April 29 Ladies Bible Study – Proverbs 31 from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Westchester Bible Church,10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org TAG:Teen Advisory Group meeting 4:00 PM at Library. Meeting open to teens in grades 8-12 who are interested in having a voice in teen programs at the Library. Contact

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PM. Bring a sandwich. Refreshments All School mass at 8:00 am at will be served. Come and join us.

Divine Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Thursday, May 1 Continued from page 5 Newcastle Avenue. Come join us.

The American Legion, Col. A.L. For more information, contact the Youth Dept or call 708-562-3573.

Brodie Post 1437 meets every first school office at 865-0122.

Thursday of the month at 7:00PM in Wednesday, April 30 Family Film Night featuring the community room at the Village BAR-W (Grades 1ST-6TH) & “Frozen” 6:30 PM at Library. Contact Hall.

AMBASSADORS (Grades 7th–12th) Youth Dept or call 708-562-3573.

The next meeting will be Thursday, from 6:45 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at All-School Mass, 9:00 AM, Divine May 1, 2014. All veterans are Westchester Bible Church, 10600 W. Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair welcome. For further information Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 Divine Providence and Grace please contact Stan Kolodziej, 708www.westchesterbiblechurch.org Lutheran Ecumenical Discussion, 790-9640.

11:30 AM, Grace Lutheran Church Friday, May 2 Adult Bible Study/Pray Meeting Activity Center, 1101 Manchester First Friday Eucharistic Adoration, from 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Tai Chi Class, 4:30 PM, Divine Westchester Bible Church,10600 W. Providence Church Narthex, 2600 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM,Divine Providence Ministry Center, 2540 Mayfair Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 Mayfair www.westchesterbiblechurch.org Pastor Mills of the Westchester Saturday, May 3 Community Church will speak Eucharist Retreat at Divine Infant End of Early Bird Pool Pass Prices about his trip to India at Tablegrace through the Westchester Park at Grace Lutheran Church, 1101 Jesus School - 9 am to noon for District Manchester; from 11:30 AM to 1:00 2nd graders of Divine Infant Parish

PRESIDENT

recognition for his services, which are proudly displayed in his home. He is survived by his wife (Anna Maria Continued from page 14 DiPasquantonio). They would have been married 66 years this May. which supplies electricity to about Al and Ann established themselves 180 municipalities, estimates it will in Cicero, IL until they moved to charge customers $5 to $10 extra Westchester in October 1964. in June to cover higher than normal Al worked in the refrigeration costs.” Please note: Westchester department as an electrical assembler residents enrolled with FirstEnergy for Hot Point (now General Electric) through the Village’s electric for 50 years until he retired in 1985. aggregation program will not see the They have two daughters: Ms. Laura $5 to $10 charge this June.The power Spangle and Mrs. Linda (Dr. Louis) supply agreement the Village entered Scannicchio; six grandchildren: into with First Energy as negotiated Brian and David Spangle, Yolanda through NIMEC when municipal (Christopher) Lufrano,Louis (Marcia) aggregation was initiated did not Scannicchio, Lisanne and Brittany allow for these pass through charges. Scannicchio; 2 great-grandchildren: There are approximately 100 other Louis Rocco Scannicchio (4 municipalities in northern Illinois months) and Gabriela Ann Lufrano that contracted with FirstEnergy (3 months). Brother of the late for their aggregation, but used the Peter (late Virginia) Marshe, and FirstEnergy power agreement. That the late Aldo (Nancy) Marchioretto; agreement allowed for this type of brother-in-law of the late John (late a pass through. Those communities’ Elide) DiPasquantonio. Al always residents will be realizing the extra enjoyed spending time with his June charge. We are pleased to have grandchildren. Hobbies included: shielded our residents from this riding his bike, gardening in his charge. “giardino”, wiffle ball in the back yard, playing numerous games like SORROW IN OUR MIDST “Sorry!”, “Scrabble”, “Put & Take”, and his originals “The Car Game” Longtime Westchester resident, and “52 Pick-up”. He and Ann spent Alfonso Marchioretto, passed on the several winters in Florida and made evening of Monday, March 3rd. annual trips New York/New Jersey He was born in Mason of the to visit relatives. province ofVenice,Italy on September Al always enjoyed the annual 24, 1921 and came to America with Marchioretto Picnic. He was always his mom and brother Peter when he telling jokes and making others was nine years old. He was drafted laugh with his key phrases and by the US Army and entered into funny faces. active service on January 2, 1943 and He was a faithful man who said was honorably discharged in January prayers in English and Italian. of 1946. His military specialization He will be remembered for his was refrigeration mechanics and radiant smile, his humor, and his kind he earned several ribbons of heart. Godspeed “Papa Fonso”!

making their First Communion.

Contact Sr. Susan Majcen at 708865-8086 for more information.

Creating Butterfly Habitats 10:30 AM at Library.

Program for adults to learn how your garden can be a welcoming habitat for butterflies, with Stephanie Walquist of Monarch Watch. Contact Adult Dept or call 708-562-3573.

Sunday, May 4

Monday, May 5 Monday Matinees featuring “Casablanca” 2:00 PM at Library.

Contact Adult Dept or call 708-5623573.

Tuesday, May 6 May Crowning (Crowning of Statue of Mary), 1:30 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair Local Library

FROM THE BOARD At the March 11, Village Board meeting, the following items were approved under the Consent Agenda; The Record of Bills ending 03-072014 in the amount not to exceed $ 793,946.59 Monthly Department Reports for February 2014 including Minutes of the February 25, 2013 Village Board Meeting, Minutes of the February 25, 2013 Committee of the Whole Meeting, Minutes of the January 28, 2014 Closed Session Meeting and Minutes of the February 11, 2014 Closed Session Meeting An Ordinance Amending Section 11.44.040, entitled “No turn on red intersections,” of Chapter 11.44, entitled “Miscellaneous Traffic Regulations,” of Title 11, entitled “Vehicles and Traffic,” of the Westchester Municipal Code An Ordinance Amending Chapter 5.36, entitled “Liquor Sale,” of Title 5, entitled “Business Licenses and Regulations,” of the Westchester Municipal Code An Ordinance Authorizing the Disposal of Surplus Property of the Village of Westchester and Waiving Competitive Bidding and authorizing the Purchase of a 2014 Ford Utility Police Interceptor from Currie Motors Fleet in the Net Amount of $23,080 Under the Active Agenda, the following items were approved; A Resolution Approving and Ratifying a Confidentiality Agreement Between the Village of Westchester and Regency Centers Corporation A Resolution Declining he Village of Westchester’s First Right to Purchase Real Property from the Westchester

At the March 11, Committee of the Whole meeting, the following items were discussed under new business; The Plan Commission’s Recommendation to Approve Petition PC-14-0001 Amendment to the Planned Unit Development at the northeast corner of 31st & Wolf Rd (Westbrook Commons), Westchester (Regency Centers, Petitioner) to provide for an addition to the Mariano’s property.

An Economic Incentive Agreement for Mariano’s The purchase of a strike pounder for the Public Works Department in order to break through concrete and dig more quickly in case of main breaks or other potential needs.

The enforcement of re-inspection fees to be assessed by the Community Development Department when an inspection is not passed; the department has the authority to assess a fee for the re-inspection.

The financing of the Fire Department’s recently purchased ambulance. An intergovernmental agreement with MWRD to move forward with the Mayfair Expansion Project Watershed Management Ordinance (WMO) – President Pulia Under Old Business Stella’s - Westchester LLC (d/b/a Stella’s Place) Liquor License – President Pulia Under Information Only Village Manager Matthys updated the board on the status of the 2014 Street Program including the above mentioned projected schedule and phases.

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Westchester Flood Information FLOOD HAZARD AREAS There are two main areas in Westchester that are in the 100-year floodplain. The northern area of town is in the 100-year floodplain for Addison Creek. There is another 100year flood plain area on the south end of town that is tributary to Salt Creek. This area runs roughly west to east a few blocks north of 31st Street.

The storms that have occurred that cause flooding to occur are generally storms that produce a lot of rain. For example, the main event in July of 2010 that caused Addison Creek and Salt Creek to overflow their banks was over seven inches of rain in a 12 hour period. Flooding has occurred along each of the creeks in 2006, 2008, 2010 and 2013.

PROPERTY PROTECTION MEASURES If your property is susceptible to flooding, there are many flood damage reduction measures you can employ.

Watertight seals can be applied to brick and block walls to protect against low-level flooding.

Utilities such as heating and air conditioning systems, water heaters and other major appliances can be elevated to higher floors in the structure or on raised platforms.

Temporary measures such as moving furniture and other valuables to higher floors or sandbagging exterior opening will also help.

Elevating or relocating the entire structure may also be a feasible option.

National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Because of our floodplain management programs that attempt to protect us from multiple flooding hazards,Westchester is part of the NFIP FLOOD SAFETY FLOODPLAIN PERMIT and thus, residents are able to obtain The following common sense REQUIREMENTS flood insurance. Additionally, because guidelines can help you from the All development within the 100- the Village participates in FEMA’s CRS dangers of flooding: yr. floodplain (not just construction program, flood insurance premiums Do not drive through a flooded of buildings, but filling, excavation, are discounted. area. More people drown in cars than fences, etc.) is required to obtain a Be sure to check your policy to anywhere else. Do not drive around Village Permit. Applications must be ensure you have adequate coverage. barriers. made prior to doing any work in a Usually these policies cover the Do not walk through flowing water. floodplain area. Please contact the building structure, but not the Currents can be deceptive. Six inches Community Development Department contents. Contents coverage can of water can knock you off your feet. to receive all the information you will also be obtained by asking. There is Stay away from power lines and need in order to properly develop in a 30-day waiting period before flood electrical wires. If your house is about the floodplain at (708)-345-0199. You insurance coverage becomes effective. to be flooded, turn off the power at may report any illegal development Plan ahead; do not wait until a flood the service box. Electrical current can activities to the above number as well. is predicted before purchasing flood travel through water. Electrocution is insurance. If you are building inside the 2nd leading cause of death during SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT/ the floodplain, the purchase of flood floods.

DAMAGE insurance is mandatory if using a Be alert to gas leaks.Turn off the gas The NFIP requires that if the cost of federally regulated/insured bank for a to your house before it floods. If you improvements to a building or the cost loan. smell gas, report it to a Village official to repair damages (from any cause) to or your gas company. Do not use a building exceeds 50% of the market NATURAL & BENEFICIAL candles, lanterns or open flames if you value of the building (excluding land FUNCTIONS smell gas or are unsure if your gas has value), the entire building must be Flood plains play a valuable role been shut off. brought up to current floodplain in providing natural and beneficial Keep children away from the management standards. Building functions to the area around, and flood waters, ditches, culverts and improvement projects include exterior including, Westchester. Floodplains storm drains. Flood waters can carry and interior remodeling, rehabilitation, that are relatively undisturbed provide unimaginable items that have dislodged additions and repair and reconstruction a wide range of benefits to both themselves. Culverts may suck smaller projects. Additionally, the cost of human and natural systems. These people into them rendering them currently planned improvements will benefits provide aesthetic pleasure helpless. be added to the cost of previously as well as function to provide active Clean everything that has been wet. made improvements and compared to processes such as filtering nutrients.

Flood water will be contaminated with the existing market value to determine The Forest Preserve property along sewage and other chemicals which if the improvements exceed 50% of the Sunnyside Avenue is used as a means pose severe health threats. structure’s value. Please contact the to filter road debris and oil run-off Look out for animals, especially Village Building Department at (708)- from streets so that these areas can snakes. Small animals that have been 345-0199 for further information. maintain bio-diversity and ecosystem flooded out of their home may seek sustainability. Both floodplains contain shelter in yours.

FLOOD INSURANCE historic and archeological sites that Do not use gas engines, such as If your do not have flood insurance, provide opportunity for education generators, or charcoal fires indoors talk to your insurance agent. Most and study. Both enhance waterfowl, during power outages. Carbon homeowner’s insurance policies do fish and other wildlife habitats and monoxide exhaust can pose serious not cover damage from floods. Flood provide feeding/breeding grounds. health hazards. insurance is only available to those And lastly, both floodplains provide participating communities in the natural erosion control and open

space so further flooding damage does not occur.

DRAINAGE SYSTEM MAINTENANCE As simple as it may sound, simply keeping smaller ditches and steams free of debris can dramatically improve the run-off capacity of low-lying areas, as well as greatly reduce the occurrence blockage that significantly contributes to flooding. It is illegal to dump materials into a required waterway and violators may be fined. If you see someone in the act of dumping or see debris in one of our watercourses, please contact the Village at 708-3450020.

FLOOD WARNING SYSTEM Many times, flooding along the Addison and Salt Creeks within the Village of Westchester can be predicted in advance, giving ample warning for preparation and evacuation. However, in the event of a flash flood due to a large rain event, you may be the first to notice the oncoming situation and have only hours to execute your plan.

Notify the Village Police Department (911).

The Village’s Emergency Alert System will be activated. Tune in your radio for local and National Weather Service Updates. You will also see regular interruption on local radio and television stations advising you of the situation.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION If you should require further or more detailed information regarding floodrelated issues in Westchester, here are some additional sources: FEMA.gov website Westchester Village Hall 708-3450020 10300 Roosevelt Rd. Westchester, IL 60154 Floodplain FAQ page on the www. westchester-il.org website.

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Calling all Blood Donors and Volunteers: Second Drive of the Year - April 19 Westchester Community will host its second blood drive of the year on Saturday, April 19.

Sponsored by our own Westchester Blood Program and LifeSource Blood Services, it will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Community Center gym at Bond and Westchester Blvd.

We are also holding a fundraising bake sale in conjunction with this drive being the day before the Easter Holiday.

Over the last few years, these events have become more than just community drives; donors come from across the western suburbs and now number nearly one-third of the donor turnout. It truly is an area effort.

The need for “the gift of life” is critical: Every 3 seconds, someone in this country needs a blood transfusion because of surgery, complications during or after the birth of a baby or a major accident on a highway or at

home.

At its first drive of the year, on Jan. 18, the WPB collected 115 units (pints) for area hospitals, pushing to 24,421 units its total since its founding in 1974. In July, the Westchester Blood Program (WBP) will celebrate its 40th birthday!

From registration to post-donation refreshments it takes approximately an hour to donate a unit of whole blood. Our regular donors realize that just one pint of their blood helps to save and/or improve the lives of up to three people.

Anyone with questions about the WBP’s important task may contact Chairman Joan Steinhauer at 708409-0779, Carl Panek at 708-606-4548 or LifeSource at 877-543-3768. Don’t forget to check out our new website at www.westchesterbloodprogram. webs.com. We look forward to seeing you on Saturday, April 19.

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Eagle Scout Court of Honor Held at Westchester Community Church

By Xiaoying Qiao

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on November 21, 2013, by On Saturday, February 8, 2014, an c o m p l e t i n g Eagle Scout Court of Honor was held an Eagle for David Qiao, member of Boy Scouts project of of America Troop 73, Westchester, IL. building a Boy The ceremony took place at the Scout flower Sanctuary of Westchester Community garden at the Church, 1840 Westchester Boulevard, s o u t h w e s t Westchester. Village President Sam corner of the Pulia, Pastor Joe and Mrs. Barb Mills, Westchester together with many troop members, M e m o r i a l families and friends, attended the Fountain. ceremony.

With sponsorship from Peter Troost David Qiao earned the rank of Eagle Monument Corporation in Hillside,

Home Depot Store of Broadview, Paul’s Pizza of Westchester, Mrs. Barbara Lucchese, Scouts and Families of Westchester, and the assistance from Troop 73 and other volunteers, beautiful annual and perennial flowers were grown in the Boy Scout Garden, tribute to the Village of Westchester and the people who sacrificed themselves to serve our Country and Community.

Participating Scouts, Scout Leaders, and Friends of Scouting fully enjoyed the pride and joy of Eagle Scout ceremony. After the Eagle

Rank award, they were entertained with Scout skits, a slide show with 340 scouting pictures, along with upbeat music and delicious food, drinks, and cake.

Boy Scouts Troop 73, established in 1937 and chartered to Westchester Community Church, has a history of 77 years and has cultivated numerous excellent youth members.

David Qiao is the 47th Eagle Scout from the troop to receive the highest rank of scouting awarded by the Boy Scouts of America National Council.

Per Village ordinance, each vehicle (including motorcycles & trucks) registered or housed in the Village is required to have a 2014 Westchester vehicle tag, correctly displayed on the lower right corner of each vehicle

Failure to purchase your sticker within the allotted time-frame (prior to May 1, 2014) will result in a penalty fee. Stickers purchased after April 30, 2014 will also be subject to a citation by the Police Department for failure

to display a proper vehicle sticker.

Save time this year and purchase your sticker online at www.westchester-il. org Questions,please contact the Finance Department at 708-345-0020.

Reminder: Vehicle Stickers Due April 30, 2014Â windshield, or on the license plate for motorcycles, by May 1, 2014 to avoid late fees and potential ticketing for non-compliance. 2014 stickers have been on sale since the beginning of March.

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