April 2017 Village of Westchester Newsletter

Village of

Westchester APRIL 2017 Newsletter

From the Desk of The President FIRE DEPARTMENT

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POLICE DEPARTMENT

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SCHOOL DISTRICT

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CALENDAR

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

PUBLIC WORKS

PARK DISTRICT

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Westchester seniors enjoying the festivities at the Annual Senior Breakfast held on St. Patrick’s Day.

Tomorrow, Tuesday April 4, 2017, is Election Day. Although only the selection for Village Trustee is a contested race, it is of utmost importance for you to get out and vote. Both the Westchester Public Library and Westchester Park District are uncontested races.

That is not the case when it comes to electing candidates affecting our school districts.

Westchester Public School District 92.5 has 6 people running for 3 seats. Proviso Township High School District 209 has 8 people running for 3 seats. Hopefully you have done your homework and have decided based on the issues, who most closely you believe represents your best interests. Casting a vote is one of the most basic tenets of our democracy. Please make sure you take the time to go to the polls and vote!

of 1884-85. Chicago’s first snowfall of the season broke a 52-year-old record on Sunday, as much of the area was blanketed with several inches of snow. O’Hare Airport saw 6.4 inches of snow

by Sunday evening, according to the National Weather Service, shattering the previous daily snowfall record for December 4th, which was 4.6 inches set in 1964. From December 04, 2016 to Sunday/Monday March 13, 2017 we have been basically snow free. Unfortunately, the streak was broken with two back to back snow falls on Sunday, March 12th, with lake effect snow late Monday and Tuesday morning, March 14, 2017.

With an abundance of salt supply this year once again our Public Works Department staff made traveling the side streets of Westchester easy to navigate and without issue.

SPRING IS HERE

VILLAGE HOSTS SENIOR BREAKFAST

The official 1st day of Spring was Monday, March 20, 2017. This year we broke a record of not having any measurable snow for over 100 days. On December 04, 2016, a record 6.1 inches of snow fell at O’Hare. That was the city of Chicago’s largest first measureable (one day) snowfall total on record dating back to the winter

On Friday, March 17th, St Patrick’s Day, the village hosted the Annual Senior Breakfast at St. Joseph H.S. I would like to thank Brother Thomas Harding and St. Joseph for allowing the Village once again to utilize the Globe Resource

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Center for the event. I would like to also thank the students who helped with the set-up and serving on their off day, as well as all those residents who attended. We had RSVP’s for over 100 people, the biggest number to date. For those who attended, I hope the information I, along with the various department heads and staff, offered was of value. Westchester, like most local governments, struggles when balancing revenues versus expenditures. Please feel free to contact the various department heads at the Village for any specific questions you may have but were unable to ask. Decisions made at the National level and in Springfield by the Legislature, as well as the Governor’s office, have the trickledown effect on us the taxpayer. Maintaining the services we provide at a reasonable cost has been challenging, however I believe we have and will continue to provide exceptional service to you our residents and those who visit.

Thank you for your support over the past eight years I have been your Village President and the kind words toward me personally.

BUDGET TIME IS UPON US During the months of February and March, the village staff and board have been attending special board meetings, working out our budget for fiscal year 2018 that begins May 1, 2017 ending April 30, 2018. Generating revenue to fund the workings of government is not easy. Although considered a municipal corporation we are not profit driven. We deal in providing services, police, fire, public works, and administering the day to day operations. As presented in the Pie Chart on page 17 of the March Newsletter compiled by Mr. Chris Webber, our Finance Director, and Janet Matthys, our Village Manager, you could see that the Village of Westchester receives 13.33% of your total property taxes if you reside in the Westchester School District 92.5 or 14.87% of your total property taxes if you reside in the Hillside School District (West of Wolf Road, and adjacent to the Glen Oaks Cemetery on Mannheim Road).

We have set ordinances in place to keep a reserve of 30% in our General Fund and 15% in our utility funds to only be used to fund payroll and emergent situation that may arise at any given time. We have stood fast and monitored our spending to maintain these balances.

Since the State of Illinois has not approved a budget all the grants we

have been awarded are still on hold.

Personally, I am not holding my breath that we are going to receive them once again this year.

WASTE MANAGEMENT YARD WASTE PICK-UP RESUMES Waste Management, our refuse hauler, has resumed picking up YARD WASTE last week. As in the past, please put out any yard waste, in paper yard bags, or in a separate garbage can used only for grass clippings, etc on your regular pickup day. Yard waste will not be picked up if placed in a plastic bag. Waste Management will also pick up small piles of brush in lengths less than 4 feet bundled together.

PUBLIC WORKS BRUSH PICK-UP RESUMES On the heels of above, our Public Works Department will begin pickingup brush and branches beginning the week of April 3rd. The branches will be picked up the first FULL WEEK of the month from APRIL through NOVEMBER. To avoid having branches sit on the parkway for several weeks, please make every attempt to put them out to be pickedup according to the schedule. On the Public Works page of this newsletter the branch pick-up schedule is highlighted for this month as well as the next month. Please make note of the pick-up weeks.

ELECTRONIC RECYCLING BEGINS APRIL 8, 2017 On Saturday, April 8, 2017 from 9AM-11:30AM we will again be hosting Electronic Recycling Collections. The event will be held at the Westchester Water Tower south of Cermak Road and Enterprise Drive as it was last year. The event will begin at 9:00 AM and end promptly at 11:30 AM. The event is available for Village of Westchester Residents ONLY. Those attending the event are to enter the driveway leading up to the tower.

Appropriate signage will direct you to the site.

State Law prohibits electronic devices to be discarded in your weekly curb side garbage pick-up from Waste Management. Village code does not allow these items to be left out at the curb. This is not a new state law. It has now been in effect for several years.

The Electronic Recycling Program is being managed by volunteers free of charge in conjunction with our Village Environmental Sustainability Commission.

DOCUMENT SHREDDING EVENT

ON SATURDAY APRIL 8, 2017

We are again offering a FREE paper shredding opportunity at the same time as the Electronic Dropoff on Saturday, April 8th. We DO NOT offer shredding every month as there is a cost associated. In the past we offered shredding only twice a year, once at the beginning of our Electronic Recycling season, and again at the end of the season. This will be the only shredding opportunity for months, so please take advantage of this opportunity. Bring as much as you want.

Note: For safety and security of your important documents all of the papers are shredded on site at the event.

WESTCHESTER POLICE SUBMITS ANNUAL REPORT At our March 14, 2017 Board Meeting, Police Chief Steven Stelter provided copies of the Westchester Police Department Annual Report.

The annual report highlighted the number of total calls the police department received and information regarding dispositions of those calls.

Police training was highlighted, as well as community interaction with the schools and various prevention programs. I encourage each resident to look at the village web site where the report can be found under the police department link.

Thanks to Chief Stelter and his staff for submitting the report for all to view.

HAPPY EASTER! Easter is Sunday April 16th this year.

No matter how old you are or where you live in the world, Easter is a fun family tradition that never gets old.

From the Easter Egg Hunts to taking you first bite into that chocolate bunny, it is not only a special religious holiday marking the end to lent, but one that recognizes the resurrection of Christ, too. For those who aren’t so religious, it represents a long weekend filled with fun. Here are a few fun facts about Easter you probably didn’t realize: 1) The White House tradition of the Easter Egg Roll began in 1878 with President Rutherford B. Hayes!

2) Peep peep . . . did you know Americans buy more than 700 million Marshmallow Peeps during Easter?

3) Americans consume more than 16 million jelly beans during this holiday. That is enough to circle the globe not once, not twice, but three times!

4) Are you an ear, arms or tail person? 76% of people eat the ears on the chocolate bunny first, 5% go for the feet and 4% go for the tail.

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5) During the holiday, more than 90 million chocolate bunnies are produced each year.

6) An estimated $14.7 billion is spent on Easter each year in the U.S. 7) The Easter egg is thought to represent and symbolize joy, celebration and new life.

8) The idea of the Easter Bunny giving candies and eggs is said to have originated in Germany in the Middle Ages.

Source: elitedaily.com

TUESDAY APRIL 18TH IS TAX DAY The answer to the question: “When is Tax Day?” appears to be simple.

April 15 is traditionally the last day you can rush to your local tax preparer with W-2 forms in hand to file your annual return, but the reality is much different and varies across the country.

For most taxpayers, the deadline for filing and paying taxes is April 18, a Tuesday. This year, April 15 falls on a Saturday, and while one might think Tax Day would be bumped to the following Monday, IRS agents will not be in the office on April 17 in observance of Emancipation Day, a holiday in Washington, D.C. that commemorates the day President Abraham Lincoln freed slaves.

So, April 18 it is ... for the most part.

In parts of Georgia and Mississippi, some people have until May 31 to file and pay their taxes, while portions of Louisiana have until June 30, the Wall Street Journal reports. And deadlines can vary among taxpayers who live and work abroad or for military members who are serving in combat zones, according to the Journal.

And then there are the procrastinators. The Journal reports that filers can use the April 18 deadline to request an additional six months to send in their taxes. (You still have to pay what you owe on time, however.)

The six-month extension ends on Oct. 16. (Fortune.com) As an additional reminder, Westchester has recently been receiving monies owed to the village from those persons through the State of Illinois Debt Recovery Program that I have written about in the past. We signed on to the program some 3 years ago and have uploaded information about who owes us what into the program. Reductions to your state income tax returns will be made regarding any debt you owe not only to Westchester but to any debt you may owe to other municipalities who have signed onto the program. If you have an outstanding debt, ticket, bill I would suggest you contact our

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finance department administrator as soon as possible so your state tax return will not be reduced.

Municipalities Can Collect Outstanding Debt through Local Debt Recovery Program A law enacted in 2012, authorized Illinois municipalities, school districts, and public universities to enter into intergovernmental agreements with the state comptroller’s office to collect delinquent debts such as outstanding fines or fees, property code violations, parking tickets, and other local obligations. Public Act 97-0632 became effective on January 1, 2012.

Pursuant to the intergovernmental agreement with the state, the municipality will notify the state comptroller of delinquent debt the municipality wants the state to collect.

The state comptroller deducts from a debtor’s state income tax refund, payroll check, or other state payment the amount due to the municipality for the local debt. The comptroller then deposits the deducted amount into the comptroller debt recovery trust fund and notifies the debtor of his or her right to contest the deduction. If the debtor fails to object within 60 days, or if the hearing officer rules against the debtor, then the comptroller will pay the collected debt amount to the municipality, minus an administrative fee.

Although there are a few administrative and procedural hurdles to clear before a debt can be collected through this process, this legislation does offer municipalities an additional tool in collecting outstanding local debt. Since Westchester became a member 2 years ago we have recovered over $400K. If you have an outstanding debt to the village please contact our Finance Director Chris Webber at 708-3450020 so we can review each case individually.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION TOWNHALL MEETING

The Village Environmental Sustainability Commission is hosting a Storm Water & Environmental Awareness Public Meeting on April 19, 2017 at 7PM at the Westchester Middle School, former Nixon School, located at Canterbury and Norfolk Ave. The goal of the meeting is to

inform and educate homeowners regarding the management of storm water, and what your village has been doing to mitigate the damaging effects of excessive storm water events. The rainy season is upon us and we do not know what Mother Nature has in store for us this year. The agenda for the meeting is as follows: AGENDA 1.

Update on F.E.M.A. Floodplain Map Revision (March 2017) / Flood Insurance Rate Map 2.

Update on Addison Creek Improvements / MWRD 3.

Brief Overview of Village of Westchester Storm Water Management Program Operation & Maintenance Plan 4.

Review of Village’s Street Cleaning Program / Inlet & Catch Basin Cleaning Parking Enforcement for Maintenance Activities a. Enforcement of Illegal Dumping 5.

Homeowner Storm Water Mitigation Measures a. Rain Water Downspouts Disconnection b.

Sump Pump Disconnections / Battery Backup Systems / Alternative Pumps c. Rain Gardens / Permeable Pavers / Rain Barrels 6.

Village Sponsored Residential Home Programs a. Home Service Line Warranty Program b. Home Water Proofing Rebate Program 7.

Environmental Sustainability Commission Sponsored Catch Basin Stenciling Program / Inlet Monitoring a.

Volunteer Opportunities b.

School / Public / Private Institution Educational Opportunities 8.

Public Comments and Questions

LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF THE LAGRANGE AREA HOST STORM WATER MEETING

Trustee Carl Celestino and I attended a discussion hosted by the LWV on storm water management in Cook County on Thursday, March 16th, held at the LaGrange Public Library. Ms. Debra Shore, a MWRD Commissioner was the guest speaker on the topic. Ms. Shore spoke on issues relating to MWRD’s role in storm water management for suburban Cook County. Information about the TARP (Tunnel and Reservoir Plan) and the status of the McCook Reservoir presently under construction was highlighted. At our April 19th meeting mentioned above, a representative from MWRD will be

present to answer questions we may have and update us as to the projects being designed for Addison Creek.

SPRING FLOODING TIPS I more than anyone want to forget about the two excessive rain events that caused our town and region to Flood in July 2010, and April 2013.

I believe we have made significant strides in construction spending and maintenance over the past few years to withstand additional rainfall in excess of 3 inches in a short period of time. I am not naïve enough to categorically state that similar events occurring in the future will prevent all flooding or basement back-ups to occur. Water will seek its own level, and no matter what preventive measures we can put in place Mother Nature will always win. With that in mind I feel it’s my duty to again offer information on the topic especially since “April Showers Bring May Flowers.”

I more than anyone want to forget about the two excessive rain events that caused our town and region to Flood in July 2010, and April 2013.

I believe we have made significant strides in construction spending and maintenance over the past few years to withstand additional rainfall in excess of 3 inches in a short period of time. I am not naïve enough to categorically state that similar events occurring in the future will prevent all flooding or basement back-ups to occur. Water will seek its own level, and no matter what preventive measures we can put in place Mother Nature will always win. With that in mind I feel it’s my duty to again offer information on the topic especially since “April Showers Bring May Flowers.”

When spring hits, whether it’s “official” or feels like spring, many of us are eager to get out of the office and into the fresh air. However, too much rain or thawing snow after a long winter from mountains can bring severe flooding. Floods are the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States. Here are some things to keep in mind as the spring flood season draws near.

• Never drive or walk through flooded streets. It only takes six inches of moving water to sweep a person off their feet (and not in the romantic way) and 12 inches to move a car. Remember, if a street is flooded, Turn Around; Don’t Drown.

• Floods are expensive. A few inches of water in a 1,000-square foot home could cost more than $10,000 in repairs and replacement of personal possessions. Visits FEMA’s data visualization website to learn

more about the costs and impacts of floods in your state • Most insurance does not cover flood damage. Only flood insurance will cover the damage from floods. Speak with your insurance agent to learn more and remember flood insurance takes 30 days to take effect, so purchase now to protect your family!

• Talk with your family and make an emergency plan for you and your pets. No matter the disaster, it’s always a good idea to have emergency supplies ready at home, at work, and in the car.

You can learn more about the dangers of flooding and find information about flood insurance at Ready.gov/ floods and Floodsmart.gov. We also have prepared a Flood Safety Social Media Toolkit so you can share tips with your friends and family prepare at www.ready.gov/flood-toolkit.

EARTH DAY IS APRIL 22ND Earth Day is an annual event, celebrated on April 22, on which day events worldwide are held to demonstrate support for environmental protection. It was first celebrated in 1970, and is now coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network, and celebrated in more than 192 countries each year. (Source Wikipedia) 2017 - Earth Day’s 47th anniversary - could be the most exciting year in environmental history.

• The year in which economic growth and sustainability join hands.

• The year in which world leaders finally pass a binding climate change treaty.

• The year in which citizens and organizations divest from fossil fuels and put their money into renewable energy solutions.

These are tough issues but we know what’s at stake is the future of our planet and the survival of life on earth. On Earth Day we need you to take a stand so that together, we can show the world a new direction. It’s our turn to lead. So our world leaders can follow by example.

Earth Day, observed by over 1 billion people, is the only event celebrated simultaneously around the globe by people of all backgrounds, faiths and nationalities.

The first Earth Day, on April 22, 1970, activated 20 million Americans from all walks of life and is widely credited with launching the modern environmental movement.

The passage of the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act and establishment of the EPA soon followed. Growing out of

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the first Earth Day, Earth Day Network (EDN) works with over 22,000 partners in 192 countries to broaden, diversify and mobilize the environmental movement. More than 1 billion people now participate in Earth Day activities each year, making it the largest civic observance in the world. (Source Earthday Network) from more information www. earthdaynetwork.org

WESTCHESTER SPRING CLEAN UP DAY TO BE HELD ON APRIL 22ND Please mark your calendars for Saturday, April 22nd , for our annual SPRING CLEAN-UP DAY. We will be meeting at the Village Hall at 8:30am and will be picking up trash, branches, leaves and other similar items around town. Volunteers are always welcome. Please bring your rakes, brooms and shovels and community pride spirit as we work to clean up the town. We will work until 11:30am. We will be serving a luncheon of pizza, subs and pop as a thank you to all volunteers. Please contact Jessica in the front office at 708-345-0020 to let us know if you or your group is coming to help.

DRUG TAKE BACK DAY IS APRIL 29 2017 The DEA has notified the village that its’ semi-annual Drug Take Back Day is being held on April 29, 2017 from 10AM to 2PM. The National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse and medications. This is a great time for you to discard any unwanted pills and medications that may be expired or unwanted. This is the time for the village to purge all of the unwanted drugs we have been collecting for the past 6 months. Please make every effort to bring all recyclable drugs you have to recycle before or on April 29, 2017. Drop off is available every day from 7am-11pm in the marked container in our lobby.

Again do NOT put any pills or drugs down the toilet. It will end up in the water we drink and will have a disastrous impact on the aquatic and plant life it encounters in our rivers and streams.

WESTCHESTER 2017 VEHICLE TAGS ON SALE

Each year the Village requires all vehicles registered in the Village of Westchester to display a Westchester vehicle tag/sticker. I have copied the ordinance for review.

Code Section 11.56.010 - Required.

It is unlawful for any person residing in the village, or for any firm or corporation having its principal place of business in the village, or having vehicles registered to an address in the village, to use, cause or permit any of his, her, its or their agents or employees to operate any motor vehicle within the corporate limits of the village, or to allow any motor vehicle to be parked on public or private property located within the corporate limits of the village, unless such motor vehicle is licensed as hereinafter provided.

Each and every vehicle which has been issued a license by the Secretary of the State of Illinois, which is registered to an address in the village, shall have the village vehicle sticker displayed on the lower passenger side portion of the windshield of such vehicle, and the owner of such vehicle, as reflected by the records of the Illinois Secretary of State’s office shall be responsible for securing the vehicle sticker herein required and complying with the provisions herein.

Any expired vehicle sticker shall be removed from the windshield of the vehicle.

Simply stated, please purchase your Westchester vehicle tags for all of your vehicles, including motorcycles, before the April 30, 2017 midnight deadline.

By Ordinance, the price of the sticker will DOUBLE beginning May 1, 2017. The last time to purchase stickers in person at the village hall prior to the deadline will be Saturday, April 29th from 9AM until 1PM. You would be surprised how many calls I get throughout the year by residents who have purchased their tags reporting that many vehicles whose owners live in town are driving around with either no vehicle tag at all or with an expired one, and they don’t believe that is fair.

In some cases those not purchasing the tag are bragging that they have not purchased the required tag for years.

Several years ago the village purchased a list from the Illinois Secretary of State that indicated approximately 15 thousand vehicles were registered to the Village. We have been averaging 12 thousand tag sales each year. That means 3 thousand tags or about $105 thousand dollars is not being collected.

Police have been and will continue

to write tickets for violations of this ordinance. Do NOT be surprised if you see a ticket on your car while parked at the Jewel, Mariano’s, Westbrook Corporate Plaza, or parked in any lot open to the public where the police patrol.

NOTE: The sticker/tag is to be displayed on the lower right side of the front passenger side window.

Please remove the old stickers.

Having a trail of stickers obstructs your vision. Also having the sticker/ tag it in your glove box or on your table inside your house does not count. A ticket for non-display can also be written.

If you have purchased your 2017 Village Sticker, removed your old one/s and complied with our long standing ordinance I THANK YOU. The revenue we receive pays a portion of expenses for street and infrastructure projects through our Public Works funds.

If you have not purchased your tag/sticker yet let this article be a warning that you may be in-store to receive a $75 Ticket from the police, plus a $74 double price for purchasing the current tag after the deadline. Spending $37 dollars now per car versus a possible $149 later is a decision you will have to make. You decide, but don’t say you were not warned. In case you were wondering, from May 1, 2016-December 31, 2016 our police wrote 432 tickets for vehicle tag violations.

Vehicle stickers are valid for one year, from May 1 through April 30.

Stickers can be purchased on-line or in person. Renewal forms were mailed to residents on February 27, 2017. PLEASE BRING IN YOUR PREPRINTED FORM FOR PURCHASE OF VEHICLE STICKERS AT VILLAGE HALL. Village Hall will be open on Saturday, April 8th from 8:30AM to 12:30PM, and Saturday, April 29th from 8:30AM to 1:00PM for your convenience in purchasing your stickers. PRICES DOUBLE ON MAY 1, 2017.

Register All Vehicles with a Westchester Address Residents are reminded that they must purchase a vehicle license for all vehicles housed in Westchester, as well as for all vehicles that are registered through the State of Illinois with a Westchester address. For example, vehicles that may be used at a second residence that are registered to their Westchester address are required to have a Westchester vehicle license.

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We are offering a reduced rate for veterans this year, which is $21 (limit one vehicle). The fee structure is as follows: Vehicle Classification Regular passenger vehicle sticker $37 Auto vehicle sticker for senior citizens (65 & older) $21 Auto vehicle sticker for veterans (with proof of veteran status) $21 Auto vehicle sticker for handicapped plates (specialty plate or placard) $11 Auto vehicle sticker for antique vehicles $11 Motorcycle tag $34 Truck vehicle sticker (B plates or higher) $63

BACKFLOW PREVENTION VALVES REQUIRED At our March 14, 2017 Committee of the Whole Meeting, our Public Works Director Robert Lewis once again shared information regarding inspections for backflow prevention valves to prevent contamination to our drinking water. EPA and state law require backflow prevention valves be placed on all lawn sprinkler systems to prevent water contamination to not only the home that has the sprinkler, but to the entire village water supply.

Chemicals from fertilizers and other inherent ground contaminants can leech into the unprotected piping and into our drinking water supply creating a public health hazard. For the past several years we have been identifying lawn sprinkler systems as requiring the additional protective measures.

Those found to be in noncompliance will be cited. Protecting our drinking water from contamination is far more important than having a green lawn.

Permits have always been required for lawn sprinkler systems, however many have been installed without permits, inspections and required backflow preventive certifications. I have attached the General Policy for review. Please visit our web site for additional requirements reflected in Section 15.40 and related subsections.

Code Section 15.40.010 - General policy. (a) Purpose: The purpose of this Chapter is as follows: 1.

To protect the public water

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supply system from contamination or pollution by isolating within the customer’s water system contaminants or pollutants which would backflow through the service connection into the public water supply system.

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To promote the elimination or control of existing cross-connections, actual or potential, between the public or consumer’s potable water system and non-potable water systems, plumbing fixtures and sources or systems containing substances of unknown or questionable quality.

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To provide for the maintenance of a continuing program of cross-connection control which will prevent the contamination or pollution of the public and consumer’s potable water systems. (b) Application: This Chapter shall apply to all premises served by the public potable water supply system of the Village. (c) The owner or official custodian of such premises served by the public potable water supply system shall be responsible for protection of the public water supply system from contamination due to backflow or back siphonage of contaminants through the customer’s water service connection. If, in the judgment of the Director of Public Works or his authorized agent, an approved backflow prevention device is necessary for the safety of the public water supply system, the Director of Public Works shall give notice to the consumer to install such a device at each service connection to the premises. The consumer shall, within the prescribed time indicated in said notice, install such device or devices at his own expense. Failure or refusal to do so shall constitute grounds for discontinuing water service to such premises until the same have been so installed. The consumer shall retain records of installation, maintenance, testing and repair, as herein required in Section 15.40.080(d)(4) for a period of at least five years.

(Ord. No. 2013-1993, § 2, 4-9-2013)

COMMERCIAL INSPECTIONS… TRIPLE BASINS Mr. Lewis also informed the Board of requirements regarding the inspection of certain commercial properties and businesses to verify whether they are in compliance of EPA rules involving “Triple Basins.”

A Triple Basin is a 3 connected container that is designed to collect contaminants such as grease, oil, etc

before entering into the village piping system.

An example as highlighted in the Illinois Plumbing Code PART 890 ILLINOIS PLUMBING CODE SECTION 890.520 GASOLINE, OIL AND FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS Section 890.520 Gasoline, Oil and Flammable Liquids a) Commercial vehicle repair garages, gasoline stations with grease racks or pits, and oil change facilities shall be provided with floor drains or trench drains connected to a gas and oil interceptor. If these facilities are connected to a private sewage disposal system, the floor or trench drains shall be connected to a holding tank in lieu of a gas and oil interceptor in accordance with the Private Sewage Disposal Licensing Act. Where trench drains are used to carry wastes to a gas and oil interceptor, the trench drain shall either extend the entire length of the work area or shall be installed in each working stall. For all facilities specified in this Section in which floor drains are installed, a minimum of one floor drain per working stall or one floor drain for each 500 square feet shall be installed.

For questions please contact Director Lewis at 708-345-0041

SUNNYSIDE PROJECT This year the relocation of the sanitary sewer line out of the forest preserve and into our right of way along Sunnyside Avenue will occur.

We will be applying for a low interest loan from the State of Illinois Revolving Fund to complete the nearly $4 million dollar project. Final designs are being sent to the CCFPD, IDOT, & MWRD for approval. In addition to being able to maintain the nearly 1 mile sewer line, this project will certainly lessen to a great degree the amount of Inflow and Infiltration (I/I) into the MWRD interceptor. Westchester has been identified by MWRD as having a high I/I rate which requires the Village to have a capital plan in place to reduce substantially.

ARBOR DAY IS APRIL 28, 2017 Arbor Day, which is Latin for “Tree Day,” is an environmental holiday where citizens and groups are encouraged to plant trees and care for the already existing trees. Arbor Day was founded by J. Sterling Morton on April 10, 1872 in Nebraska City, Nebraska where over an estimated one million trees were planted on that single day.

The United States celebrates Arbor Day on the last Friday in the month of April.

Once again this year we will be planting a Tree in furtherance of this important day. A tree will be planted at the Westchester Intermediate School, the former HIGH RIDGE SCHOOL located on Canterbury at Haase Ave. 10900 Canterbury. The ceremony will begin at 10am. The will be planted with the help of the students in the 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade.

As you may be aware, Westchester was given the designation as a TREE CITY in 2016. The Arbor Day Foundation recently sent us a letter announcing our 1st year anniversary.

Westchester is one of more than 3,400 Tree City USA’s, with a combined population of 140 million. The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters.

Westchester will have a 50%-50% Parkway tree replacement program once again this year. If you are interested please contact Gayle in the Public Works Department at 708345-0041.

Benefits of Trees Trees can add value to your home, help cool your home and neighborhood, break the cold winds to lower your heating costs, and provide food for wildlife.

The Value of Trees to a Community The following are some statistics on just how important trees are in a community setting.

The net cooling effect of a young, healthy tree is equivalent to ten room-size air conditioners operating 20 hours a day. U.S. Department of Agriculture If you plant a tree today on the west side of your home, in 5 years your energy bills should be 3% less. In 15 years the savings will be nearly 12%.

Dr. E. Greg McPherson, Center for Urban Forest Research A mature tree can often have an appraised value of between $1,000 and $10,000. Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers In one study, 83% of realtors believe that mature trees have a ‘strong or moderate impact’ on the salability of homes listed for under $150,000; on homes over $250,000, this perception increases to 98%. Arbor National Mortgage & American Forests Landscaping, especially with trees, can increase property values as much as 20 percent. (Management Information Services/ICMA).

One acre of forest absorbs six tons of carbon dioxide and puts out four tons of oxygen. This is enough to meet the annual needs of 18 people.

(U.S. Department of Agriculture) There are about 60– to 200-million spaces along our city streets where trees could be planted.

This translates to the potential to absorb 33 million more tons of CO2 every year, and saving $4 billion in energy costs. (National Wildlife Federation) Trees properly placed around buildings can reduce air conditioning needs by 30 percent and can save 20– 50 percent in energy used for heating.

(USDA Forest Service) Trees can be a stimulus to economic development, attracting new business and tourism. Commercial retail areas are more attractive to shoppers, apartments rent more quickly, tenants stay longer, and space in a wooded setting is more valuable to sell or rent.

(The Arbor Day Foundation) Healthy, mature trees add an average of 10 percent to a property’s value.

(USDA Forest Service) The planting of trees means improved water quality, resulting in less runoff and erosion. This allows more recharging of the ground water supply. Wooded areas help prevent the transport of sediment and chemicals into streams. (USDA Forest Service) In laboratory research, visual exposure to settings with trees has produced significant recovery from stress within five minutes, as indicated by changes in blood pressure and muscle tension. (Dr. Roger S. Ulrich Texas A&M University) Nationally, the 60 million street trees have an average value of $525 per tree. (Management Information Services)

WESTCHESTER PRIMARY SCHOOL I would like to thank all of the students and staff at the Westchester Primary School (aka KENNEDY SCHOOL for those who remember), for inviting us once again this year to be guest readers celebrating Dr. Seuss’ Birthday.

Theodor Seuss Geisel was born on March 2, 1904 and passed away on September 24, 1991. He was an American writer, cartoonist, animator, book publisher, and artist best known for authoring children’s books under the pen name Dr. Seuss. His work includes several of the most popular children’s books of all time, selling over 600 million copies and being translated into more

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than 20 languages by the time of his death.

Fire Chief James Adams and Police Chief Steve Stelter had a great time reading the various books written by Dr. Seuss to the children.

READERS ARE LEADERS… Thanks for the Invite…Sam

ST JOSEPH CHARGERFIESTA COOK-OFF On Saturday April 22, 2017 St. Joseph H.S will host its 6th Annual CHARGERFEAST. The theme of this year’s event will be ChargerFiesta. The evening will feature a ChargerFiesta cook-off, games of chance, split-thepot, silent & special live auction, and more! ChargerFiesta is also home of the 2017 Super Raffle Drawing where $23,500 will be given away in cash prizes!

The ChargerFiesta event tickets are only $15! Food and drink tickets are available for purchase. Must be 21 or older to attend. Admission is FREE when you purchase a Super Raffle Ticket. For information Call 708-5627488

SENIOR FAIR On page 7 of the March newsletter I mentioned that ‘Solutions For Care’ was taking over the responsibilities of the West Suburban Senior Services. I have received a flyer from the group inviting all seniors to attend their First event at the Village of Maywood Recreation Hall on Saturday, April 22, 2017 from 9am-1pm. The hall is Located at 200 S. 5th Ave. Maywood, IL. The Flyer listed a FREE breakfast will be served from 9am-9:30 am. The event is an “IDEAS FOR SENIOR FAIR.” Presentations will include: The Basics of Medicare; Defense Tips for Elders; Do I need a Power of Attorney; Activities include: Zumba; Chair Yoga; File of Life; and Bone Density, Blood Pressure, Glucose Screenings & More. To Register call Solutions For Care at 708-447-2448 www.solutionsforcare.org.

WESTCHESTER CIVIC THEATRE IS BACK Westchester Civic Theatre (WCT) presents 8X10 Play Festival. The shows will be held at St. Joseph High School Sirus Theater 10900 W. Cermak Rd. Westchester.

The Spring 2017 WCT’s show has been written by people like you… maybe even someone you know! The production is new and never seen before short plays. A festival of short plays written by locals. WCT received 33 scripts and picked 8 to produce.

New scripts, new directors, 8 casts, amazing fun!

WCT is holding the 8x10 Play Festival beginning April 29,2017. It will consist of 8, ten-minute scripts written by people in Chicagoland. In phase 1 WCT requested scripts. The due date for scripts was December 5th, 2016...and yes, they received many, many scripts, 33 to be exact.

A big thank you to all who sent in scripts! Phase 2, WCT sent the scripts to its’ 8 directors to pick the script they wanted to direct. The directors read the scripts and rated them which led to the final 8.

The 8 Scripts!

It was really interesting to see what scripts the 8 directors gravitated towards. Here are the final 8 and their writers.

“Grrr, Interrupted” written by Valerie and Kerry O’Connor “We are all Foreigners Here” written

by Helen Valenta “Cup of Joe” written by Julie Brandon “Interview” written by Mike McGeever “Last Night” written by Mark Wierzbicki “Friend Me” written by Gerry Ringwald “Better In Than Out” written by James Klein “A Vast Wasteland” written by John Dumas Now what?

As part of WCT’s mission, they want to provide opportunities for participants to learn all aspects of theater which includes directing. They have identified 8 people who have lots of theater experience but not much directing experience and want to try their hand at making one of the 8 scripts come alive. A great learning experience and fun at the same time.

Win-Win! Now that the scripts are selected and assigned, the directors will begin laying out their ideas to bring the scripts to life.

Will there be 8 casts?

You bet there will! We want as many people to be involved as possible. The more the merrier. You get a car! You get a car! and you! and you! ...OK not that great but lots of roles.

Because of this set-up, each scene being only ten minutes and all, the

rehearsal schedule will be really light.

A chance to be on stage and still spend time with your family! Another Win-Win! Show times are: Performance Dates and Times: Saturday, April 29, 7:30 PM Sunday, April 30, 2:00 PM Saturday, May 6, 7:30 PM Sunday, May 7, 2:00 PM Ticket Prices: Adults: $15 Students and Seniors: $13 Parking and entrance, north side of St. Joseph High School by the sports fields.

For ticket information call 1-708928-5010 or visit westchesterplays@ gmail.com.

WCT is dedicated to the community – its’ mission is to enhance the community with the performing arts.

They do this by performing shows, keeping theater fun for audience and cast alike and by providing opportunities to mentor and learn all aspects of theater.

SENIOR SERVICE Over the week of March 4th through March 11th, I had the honor of assisting my father-in law at a rehabilitation facility in Lakewood Ranch, Florida where he and his wife “snowbird “ for several months each winter. This was truly an eye opening experience for me, as other than knowing someone who was in such a facility and visiting for a short time, I spent a good portion of the day there. The men and women that perform the duties of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Speech Therapy I met and interacted with were “Angels.”

My father-in law, who turned 92 on March 15th, needed all of the above services and has become increasingly frail over the past year. My goal was to keep him in good spirits and as active as I could. There were many people at the facility needing a host of services. Some were there on a more permanent basis and other than receiving breakfast, lunch, and dinner did not have any visitors, and in some cases sat in a catatonic state staring into space. I wondered what they were thinking about or reflecting on.

After the first 2 days I could not wait to get to the facility. Helping John was my first priority, but I was able to talk to several of the patients, and actually built a few puzzles with them during therapy times. My best time was taking John on long wheelchair walks. I tried to take him on longer walks each day and reached 2.5 miles one afternoon. I know his rear end

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was hurting as his weight loss has been substantial over the past year. I added several cushions to the chair, but I’m not sure it helped but he never complained. I think being in the fresh air and talking while rolling along the distance did not seem long at all.

Why am I talking about this? Well there are many senior citizens, and family members out there that may be in a similar situation who could use a little cheering up. Maybe children of elderly parents get wrapped up with their own lives that it gets easy to let someone else care for them.

Maybe we cannot take care of them physically but we can sure make some time to sit and talk to them even if they can’t hear us. I know that I had a great time telling my stories, helping him get through the day, and hopefully made what could have been a negative experience at a rehab facility somewhat positive. Remember we are all going to get old and be in need of love and compassion.

7 Easy Ways Seniors Can Eat Healthier As I search for information on many topics that I believe many of our senior readers do not have access to I came upon a web site that I have visited before that I believe is worthwhile.

Maybe since I spent some time at a senior rehab facility I observed some eating habits or lack thereof that I wanted to understand more fully. I regularly receive information from CARING.COM on a host of topics.

I found the website very helpful & informative on many topics. With March Being National Nutrition Month, (better late than never), I wanted to share an article written by the editor Ms. Laura Dixon, Caring. com Editor last month.

“As you get older, a slowing metabolism, changing digestive system and even changes in appetite or emotional health all add up to a new set of nutritional needs. But ensuring you stick to a healthy diet can also become more challenging with age, especially if you face mobility issues or other age-related conditions that make it harder to go grocery shopping and prepare healthy meals.

Amy Klassman, registered dietitian and staff nutritionist at The Clare, a continuing care retirement community in Chicago, notes that seniors can be set in their ways and used to eating what they want, making it tough to get them to change their dietary habits. She recommends that older adults make small changes toward a healthier diet that work with their unique daily schedules.

While residents of senior living

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communities have on-site chefs and nutritious meals provided, those who are aging in place have to do a bit more planning to ensure they’re maintaining a healthy diet.

Tim Murray, founder and president of North Carolina-based senior home care company Aware Senior Care, says he sees a lot of elderly clients eating poorly. “We see it often – when you’re single or even in a couple, or if you have a chronic illness slowing you down, meals are tedious,” he says.

Over time, poor eating habits like reaching for convenient junk food over healthy meals and snacks can add up to weight gain, diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease, among other conditions. Being overweight can also make it harder for older adults to live independently, Murray notes. That’s why the company has teamed up with medical professionals to host seminars advising clients on better meal planning and preparation, he says.

In addition to planning meals, there are plenty of relatively easy ways for seniors to eat healthier – from commonsense approaches like swapping junk food for produce to enlisting loved ones to help with grocery shopping and cooking or trying out one of a growing number of meal delivery services.

In honor of National Nutrition Month, we asked nutritionists and senior care experts for their tips to help seniors eat healthier, this month and every month.

1. Make a list and follow it Nutritionists and senior care experts alike highlight the importance of planning out meals and snacks before heading to the grocery store as a key habit to help ensure older adults get the nutrition they need.

Right at Home of Lower Manhattan, a senior home care company, recommends that seniors make a detailed list of food and drinks to last for several days, and stick to the outer ring of the supermarket where whole foods are typically stocked.

“For older adults who typically cook for one or two, consider which foods can be made in larger quantities but safely stored for additional meals,” company representatives advised in a recently released tip sheet on healthy eating.

2. Plan for help If you have an older loved one who needs help with grocery shopping, make a point to take them to the supermarket yourself or arrange for another relative, friend, neighbor or volunteer to help out. “You have to build your circle of support – you’ve

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got to have transportation and meals planned out,” says Murray.

If you’re considering hiring in-home care for yourself or a loved one, be sure to ask the agency whether this is one of the services they provide.

Right at Home and Aware Senior Care are examples of senior home care providers today whose services include assisting clients with meal planning, grocery shopping and cooking.

3. Go for nutrient-dense, whole foods Nutrient-dense foods are those full of nutrients like fiber, protein, vitamins and healthy fats, but not a lot of calories. Whole foods (foods that aren’t processed or refined) are typically nutrient-dense and include fresh produce, fish and lean meat, poultry, nuts, legumes and eggs. Namita Nayyar, president of womenfitness.net, says seniors who want to eat better should focus on “on a healthy daily eating plan that consists of whole foods to provide needed nutrients for the second part of life.”

Many whole foods can also help older adults get their share of vitamin D and Calcium. This is essential after the age of 70, when people need more of both nutrients to stay healthy, notes Toronto-based registered nutritionist Andy De Santis. He advises seniors to regularly eat leafy greens, legumes such as lentils and chickpeas, nuts and seeds in order to get more calcium, and fish and eggs to get more vitamin D. 4. Prep meals and snacks ahead of time Once the kitchen is stocked with healthy foods, the next step is to prepare the ingredients for meals and snacks to make it easier to stick to a regular eating schedule. Eating regular meals and snacks can not only help seniors keep their energy levels up, it also means they won’t have to get their nutrients from convenient but unhealthy sources like chips, cookies and fast food.

“I recommend frequent, small meals to aging adults because it keeps their blood sugar levels steady and helps them feel satiated throughout the day,” says Lisa Shepet, Director of Nursing for Maryland-based home care company Family & Nursing Care. “Planning snacks and meals and portioning them out in plastic bags makes snacking easy.”

5. Balance your plate and check your portions Older adults who struggle with weight issues and related health conditions can follow a balanced plate method to ensure they’re getting the right ratio of different types of foods, says registered dietitian Andrea Goergen. A balanced plate “with one-half non-starchy vegetables, one-

quarter lean protein, and one-quarter starch can make losing weight and managing blood sugar levels much easier,” she says. Maintaining a healthy weight and blood sugar levels is key to lowering the risk of diabetes, stroke, heart disease and other conditions that become more prevalent with age.

6. Try a meal delivery service These days, there are a growing number of meal delivery services that seniors can turn to for a wider variety of food and to reduce the amount of time they need to spend on meal preparation, notes Klassman.

Meal kit delivery services like Blue Apron, Hello Fresh and Plated deliver ingredients and recipes to create healthy meals at home in many major metropolitan areas throughout the U.S. Smaller meal delivery services have also sprung up throughout the country to serve local communities.

Murray says the emergence of local companies that deliver pre-cooked meals has been a big help to some seniors in the Raleigh, NC area.

7. Hydrate Keeping hydrated is an essential yet easily overlooked part of a healthy diet for any adult, and especially for seniors. Adults over 50 are more likely to become dehydrated as both your sense of thirst and your kidneys’ ability to conserve water decrease, according to John Muir Health.

“Aging adults often do not consume enough liquids throughout the day,” says Shepet. “I recommend keeping a glass of water within easy reach and purposefully taking a sip during TV commercials or other automatic pauses in activities.”

As always you should always check with your doctor and medical professional before changing any dietary regime they may have in place for you.

SPEAKING OF ANGELS For as long as I can remember, two of our residents have donated an inordinate amount of time doing for others in a big way. One of those persons is my dentist and friend Dr. Thomas Sullivan. Tom just got back from Honduras in Central America volunteering his dental skills to those who cannot afford or even seek dental services. Tom and his group have been doing this for the past few years without question or recognition. For those of you who know Tom and his dental partner for more than 35 plus years, Dr. Keith Suchy, know two of the finest volunteers in Westchester bar none. Keith’s volunteering at a dental clinic in Wheaton, and helping at every village event since opening their office is just amazing. Both could never say NO and if you put them in a leadership role you would never have to worry about it not being done right. I’m not sure which

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one is Superman and which one is Batman, but I know they are the best bookends a Library could have. I have been blessed to have these two guys as my friends, and I’m sure all of their friends and acquaintances say the same thing.

SORROW IN OUR MIDST The past few months of the year have been very difficult for many Westchester families. The loss of loved ones have affects everyone that knew them personally or knew their children. Many were suffering from debilitating illness, many from the most horrible word on the planet CANCER. Mrs. Marcella Sullivan, mother of Dr. Thomas Sullivan, is one of the persons that God called to his table. I was able, along with a host of Westchester residents, to attend her funeral mass at St. Germaine in Oak Lawn, IL and there in tears, shaking my head wondering how Tom kept his composure as well as he did. The musical group he leads and performs at Divine Infant called “The Strings of Faith” and other Westchester events performed at the funeral mass with Tom singing and playing the guitar throughout the mass with the exception of two songs where he was needed to accompany his family. The eulogy said by Tom’s family, especially Marcella’s brothers, was one of the most beautiful tributes I have ever heard. Mrs. Sullivan certainly has a secured a place upstairs and I’m positive she is helping all of us, whether you knew her or not be a better person. Mrs. Sullivan was the beloved wife of Thomas Sullivan for 62 years; Loving mother of Marianne ( David) Landis, Tom (Vicki), Dan (Karen), Ed ( Laura) and Jack (Karen); Cherished grandma of Julie (Will), David, Kathryn, Steven, Kelly (Evan), Ryan (Carly), Conor, Claire, Patrick, Kathleen, Kristen, Tom, Jack, and Mary Beth; and great-grandma of Miles.

Mrs. Sandra Kasprzak, long time resident and permanent fixture at St, Joseph H.S. is another Westchester treasure who passed away late February. Mrs. Kasprzak worked in the SJHS cafeteria for several years with her mom, Annette, before helping to found Quest Food Service, which supplies meals for a number of Catholic and public elementary and secondary schools in the Chicago area.

She was especially generous to her “home school,” St. Joseph High School, where she was instrumental in the success of several of our fundraisers, including Christian Brothers

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Benefest, ChargerFeast (formerly ChargerFest), alumni banquets, family mass and breakfast (formerly motherson mass & breakfast), and MANY other celebratory gatherings. Mrs. Kasprzak’s generosity, her loyalty and the spirit she brought to our community will truly be missed.

Mrs. Kasprzak is the sister of St. Joseph Coach Gene Pingatore. While attending the ST. Joseph St. Rita game where Gene won his 1000 game I saw Mrs. Kasprzak with quite a following sitting in the bleachers at the south east corner of the gymnasium cheering her brother, the team, and her St. Joseph family on to victory.

Those of us who knew her well, knew how much she loved St. Joseph High School.

She was the beloved wife of the late Robert; loving mother of Francis W. (Kristin), Nicholas and the late Robert E. (Kathy); proud grandmother of Brian, Alexander, Annette, Chloe, Stephanie, Katie, and Giovanni; cherished great grandmother of Ariana, Capri, And Mia Bella. She will truly be missed.

Caesar Celestino, a 15 year old resident of Westchester, must also be remembered. For anyone who came in contact with Caesar around the Village was sure to know one of the most loving creatures God put on this earth. Although Caesar has four legs, he certainly was a constant companion to his owners Trustee Carl and Tracy Celestino. Caesar also fell victim to cancer. He never complained about the pain and suffering that was going on in his body. Caesar is a dog, and his particular breed is Wire Haired Fox Terrier. For those old enough to remember the “Thin Man” Movies with William Powell and Myrna Loy, their dog Asta is of the same breed as Caesar. Having lost a few of the dogs I grew up with I remember each one and the joy they brought to everyone in my family. I found this quote by Mr. Stanley Coren, that I thought appropriate. “Dogs don’t know about beginnings, and they don’t speculate on matters that occurred before their time. Dogs also don’t know — or at least don’t accept — the concept of death. With no concept of beginnings or endings dogs probably don’t know that for people having a dog as a life companion provides a streak of light between two eternities of darkness.”

Say hello to Frisky, Lady, ChooChoo, Rags, Snoopy, Tyson, and Harley D for me.

WESTCHESTER CHAMBER HOSTS LUNCHEON On March 28, 2017 Village Manager Janet Matthys, Community Development Director Melissa Headley and I attended a Westchester Chamber of Commerce event at the Mayfair Park District Banquet facility. The Westchester Chamber of Commerce appreciates all of their members and wanted to say “thank you” by joining us for a networking luncheon.

Chamber President Steven Cerasuolo and committee heads presented the benefits of membership, how the chamber can help support your business and what your membership can do for you! Many “business” guests that would benefit from learning more about the chamber were in attendance.

MAYFAIR BANQUET FACILITY For those of you who have never held a birthday, graduation, communion, confirmation party at the Mayfair facility you do not know what you are missing. The Westchester Park District offers an outstanding list of caterers for your event or feel free to bring in your own food. Room set up, decorations, flowers and balloons are just a few of the options that can be discussed before your event. The choices are up to you!

The Westchester Park District Commissioners, Director Gary Kasanders, and above all Ms. Karen Younan, the facility banquet manager, need to be commended for the most well run, clean, and affordable location to host your event. The facility can accommodate 20-240 people with a Westchester Resident Discount. The Forest the Fox Playbox is a great addition to any family event. For more information call Karen at 708-562-6410 or visit www. mayfairbanquets@comcast.net.

PET WASTE/HEALTH PROBLEM While reading an article in the Herald-Tribune from Sarasota, Florida, I came upon the above topic and after reading it began to think about the amount of dog walkers I have seen about town, and wondered if they knew some additional facts and information associated with dog ownership. I am a dog lover, having had several over the course of my life. My son Joe has 3 of the critters who l am very fond of, and who are considered family members to his wife and 4 kids. Besides the fun factor, the dogs do require a good deal of maintenance. The newspaper

article focused on the health risks for those dog owners, especially when the owners have been negligent on the clean up after the dogs business has been done. I searched some internet sites and found an article I thought was worth sharing.

Dog waste is an environmental pollutant. In 1991, it was labeled a non-point source pollutant by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), placing it in the same category as herbicides and insecticides; oil, grease and toxic chemicals; and acid drainage from abandoned mines.

Far from Fertilizer Woof-woof waste does not make for a good fertilizer. It is actually toxic to your lawn, causing burns and unsightly discoloring. Beyond your grass, it has been estimated that a single gram of dog waste can contain 23 million fecal coliform bacteria, which are known to cause cramps, diarrhea, intestinal illness, and serious kidney disorders in humans. EPA even estimates that two or three days’ worth of droppings from a population of about 100 dogs would contribute enough bacteria to temporarily close a bay, and all watershed areas within 20 miles of it, to swimming and shell fishing.

Dog feces are one of the most common carriers of the following diseases: • Whipworms • Hookworms • Roundworms • Tapeworms • Parvo • Corona • Giardiasis • Salmonellosis • Cryptosporidiosis • Campylobacteriosis For example, in the Four Mile Run watershed in Northern Virginia, a dog population of 11,400 is estimated to contribute about 5,000 pounds of solid waste every day and has been identified as a major contributor of bacteria to the stream. Nearly 500 fecal coliform samples have been taken from Four Mile Run and its tributaries since 1990, and about 50 percent of these samples have exceeded the Virginia State water quality standard for fecal coliform bacteria, according to EPA. Why all this fanfare for feces, you may ask?

Well, EPA explains that the decay of your pet’s waste actually creates nutrients for weeds and algae that grow in the waterways. As these organisms thrive on your dog’s droppings, they overtake the water in a “Little Shop of Horrors-esque” manner, and limit the amount of light that can penetrate the water’s surface.

As a result, oxygen levels in the water decrease, and the fish and seafood we eat can be asphyxiated, EPA says.

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A Toxic Cycle If you aren’t worried about the state of your local waterways, you may be a bit more concerned about the impact of dog waste a little closer to home.

The thing about persistently disposing of stools improperly (or not at all) is that it kicks off a harmful cycle that can affect your whole family— including your pet.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pet droppings can contribute to diseases animals pass to humans, called zoonoses. When infected dog poop is deposited on your lawn, the eggs of certain roundworms and other parasites can linger in your soil for years. Anyone who comes into contact with that soil—be it through gardening, playing sports, walking barefoot or any other means—runs the risk of coming into contact with those eggs; especially your dog.

Some of the hard-to-pronounce parasites your lawn could harbor include Cryptosporidium, Giardia, Salmonella, as well as hookworms, ringworms and tapeworms. Infections from these bugs often cause fever, muscle aches, headache, vomiting, and diarrhea in humans. Children are most susceptible, since they often play in the dirt and put things in their mouths or eyes.

What You Can Do If you are far too harried to keep vigilant watch over your dog’s leftovers, you may want to hire a pooper-scooper company to manage the dog waste. EPA discovered from a survey that 40 percent of the people who live in the area immediately surrounding the Chesapeake Bay— which experienced significant pollution throughout much of the 1990s—did not pick up after their dogs because it was “too much work.”

Others neglected to do so because they assumed it eventually goes away, or because the dog deposited the feces in an area far from the water, such as in the owner’s yard or in the woods. For all of these reasons, EPA says, “The reluctance of many residents to handle dog waste is the biggest limitation to controlling pet waste.”

So, in essence, the cycle begins and ends with you. In the instance of the Chesapeake Bay survey, 44 percent of dog walkers who did not pick up after their dogs indicated they would still refuse to pick up—even if confronted by complaints from neighbors, threatened with fines, or provided with more sanitary and convenient options for retrieving and disposing of dog waste.

Perhaps if they knew there were services designed to put poop at their

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disposal, they would not let Rover’s relief become their neighbors’ nuisance.

Sources • Environmental Protection Agency • U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention It might not seem like a stormwater problem, but animal waste is one of the many seemingly small sources of pollution that can add up to big problems for water quality, and even human health. Animal waste contains two main types of pollutants that harm local waters: nutrients and pathogens. When this waste ends up in water bodies, it decomposes, releasing nutrients that cause excessive growth of algae and weeds. This makes the water murky, green, smelly, and even unusable for swimming, boating, or fishing. The pathogens, diseasecausing bacteria and viruses, can also make local waters unswimmable and unfishable, and have caused severe illness in humans. As you can see, animal waste doesn’t simply decompose. So, the easiest way to avoid these problems is to clean up after your pet each and every time, and dispose of the waste properly!

It’s Really A Problem?

Picking up after your pet is easy, if you’re prepared. Simply carry a plastic bag with you on every walk with your dog, and you’ll have the equipment to remove your dog’s waste. Then throw it in the nearest trash can, and you’re done! There are even compact, refillable bag dispensers (such as Bags on Board®) that you can attach right to your dog’s leash. And of course, never throw dog waste into a stormdrain!

Westchester, like all communities, has Ordinances in place requiring the prompt removal of pet waste covering both private and public areas. Please adhere to the rules and be a good neighbor and pick-up and dispose properly of all pet waste.

FROM THE BOARD At the February 14th Village Board Meeting, the following items were approved under the Consent Agenda: • Approval of the Record of Bills ending 02-09-17 in the amount not to exceed $841,374.70 • Approval of Minutes of the January 24, 2017 Village Board Meeting, Minutes of the January 24, 2017 Committee of the Whole

Meeting, Minutes of the January 24, 2017 Executive Session and Minutes of the February 7, 2017 Special Budget Meeting • Approval of Departmental Monthly Reports: Community Development Department, Police Department, Fire Department, and Public Works Department • An Ordinance Authorizing the Execution of a Lawn Maintenance Contract with Alliance Turf Management, in the amount of $73,950.00 • A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of a Professional Engineering Services Agreement with Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd., for Preliminary Utility Investigation Services for the Reconstruction of Balmoral Avenue in the Village of Westchester, in the amount of $69,982.00 • A Resolution Approving a Collective Bargaining Agreement Between the Village of Westchester and the Metropolitan Alliance of Police, Westchester Patrol Chapter #651 At the February 14th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under New Business: • Revision to Chapter 10.08 – Poultry • 2017 Electronic Recycling Program • Expanding Home Water Proofing Rebate Program • Lemont Police Department Outdoor Shooting Range • MWRD – GIS Assistance At the February 14th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under Old Business: • Travel Expense Policy • Cook County Minimum Wage Ordinance Opt-Out • Cell Tower Lease At the February 14th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under Information Only: • Refuse Services RFP – Update At the February 21st Special Board Meeting, the following items were discussed: • Fire Department • Information Technology (New Department) • Emergency Management • Debt Service Fund • Hotel- Motel Tax Fund At the February 28th Village Board Meeting, the following items were approved under the Consent Agenda:

• Approval of the Record of Bills ending 02-23-17 in the amount not to exceed $1,103,473.45 • Approval of Minutes of the February 14, 2017 Village Board Meeting, and Minutes of the February 21, 2017 Special Budget Meeting • An Ordinance Amending Title 2, Entitled “Administration and Personnel”, of the Westchester Municipal Code, by Adding Thereto Chapter 2.98, Entitled “Travel, Meal, and Lodging Expense Reimbursement” • A Resolution Approving and Authorizing the Execution of an Intergovernmental Agreement Between the Village of Westchester and the Village of Lemont Regarding the Use of the Village of Lemont’s Shooting Range At the February 14th Village Board Meeting, the following items were approved under the Active Agenda: • A Resolution Advising and Consenting to the Appointment of Certain Officers At the February 28th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under New Business: • Revision to Chapter 10.08 – Poultry • Paperless Utility Billing • SWAP At the February 28th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under Old Business: • 2017 Electronic Recycling Program • Refuse Services RFP At the February 28th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under Information Only: • Audit Report At the March 14th Village Board Meeting, the following items were approved under the Consent Agenda: • Approval of the Record of Bills ending 03-09-17 in the amount not to exceed $630,018.42 • Approval of Minutes of the February 14, 2017 Committee of the Whole Meeting, Minutes of the February 14, 2017 Executive Session, Minutes of the February 28, 2017 Village Board Meeting, and Minutes of the February 28, 2017 Committee of the Whole Meeting • Approval of Departmental Monthly Reports: Community Development Department, Police Department, Fire Department, Public Works Department, and Finance Department

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• A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of an Agreement Between the Village of Westchester and E-Scrap Technologies, Inc. for the Provision of Electronic Recycling Services At the March 14th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under New Business: • Zoning Board of Appeals recommendation to approve Petition ZBA17-0001 Request for multiple variations for a sign at 1926 Mannheim Rd (1-800 Flowers/Palmer Florist), Westchester (Palmer Florist Inc, Petitioner) • Economic Development Committee recommendation to approve façade grant for signage at 1926 Mannheim Rd (1-800 Flowers/ Palmer Florist), Westchester (Palmer Florist Inc, Petitioner) • Commercial Compliance Inspection Checklist • Backflow Inspection Program • Authorization for Joint Purchase – Bulk Rock Salt • Film Policy At the March 14th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under Old Business: • Expanding Home Water Proofing Rebate Program • MWRD - GIS Assistance • Cell Tower Lease • Refuse Services RFP At the March 14th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under Information Only: • Comcast Franchise Renewal • Proviso-Leyden Joint 9-1-1 Authority

TRITON COLLEGE NEWS Triton Junior College is a Junior College supported by tax dollars all Westchester residents contribute too.

I know many Westchester Students attend this fine institution of higher learning. As a graduate myself I believe supporting Triton by “Getting Out the Word” is very important.

Below are several events being offered by our Junior College.

Talent Abounds as Triton Troupers Circus Returns to Campus Prepare to be amazed by the highflying, gravity-defying and endlesslyentertaining Triton Troupers Circus as it makes its return to campus April 6-8. Clowns, trapeze-artists and other talented performers will be part of the annual show on Triton College’s main campus in River Grove. The Triton Troupers Circus

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has entertained crowds of all ages for decades with exciting acts including tightrope walking, stunts, cycling, juggling, the gymwheel, teeterboard, stilt walking and more. The Triton Troupers are composed of nearly 100 members from Cook, DuPage, Kane and Boone counties who all have a passion for circus arts. The show will take place in the Robert M. Collins Gymnasium, in the R Building, on Triton’s campus located at 2000 Fifth Ave. in River Grove.

Showtimes are 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, April 6-8; and 1 p.m. Saturday, April 8. Saturday’s 1 p.m. show will be interpreted for the hearing impaired by the Triton College Center for Access and Accommodative Services. Doors open an hour before the shows and will include a clown pre-show. Tickets are $6 (no debit or credit cards accepted) and available at the door. For more information about the circus, call (708) 456-0300, Ext. 3383, or visit http://tritontrouperscircus.com.

Pancake Breakfast In addition to the circus, the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program of West Suburban Cook and Southern DuPage Counties will host its annual Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, April 8.

Breakfast runs from 8 a.m. to noon in Room R-221 of the Robert M. Collins Center on Triton’s campus, and the circus begins at 1 p.m.

Tickets for breakfast only is $4 in advance and $5 at the door. A special combination price for breakfast and circus admission is $8 in advance and $10 at the door. All proceeds benefit the RSVP program. Call (708) 4560300, Ext. 3835 or 3603, for more information.

World Music Series April 5, Noon Student Center Cafeteria (B Building) Eastern Blok and AKGI GuitarDuo – comes up with a unique musical language that melts together his Balkan roots with flamenco and Latin guitar traditions. The Goran Ivanovic Trio includes Matt Ulery on bass and Pete Tashjian on drums.

Triton College Jazz Spectacular April 8, 7:30 p.m.

Performing Arts Center of the Robert M. Collins Center (R Building, Room R-218) Admission: $7 General Admission,

$5 Students/Seniors The Jazz Spectacular is always a highlight of our concert season, featuring nationally renowned guest artists as well as the Triton College Big Band. This year we invite the Goran Ivanovic Trio, led by virtuoso guitarist Goran Ivanovic, to our stage to perform alongside the Triton College Big Band led by James Davis.

A FREE masterclass led by the Goran Ivanovic Trio will be held at 4 p.m., also in the Performing Arts Center.

Take advantage of this fantastic opportunity to engage with some of the best musicians in our region!

Faculty Artist Series April 12, 7:30 p.m.

Performing Arts Center of the Robert M. Collins Center (R Building, Room R-218) Pianist Soo-Yon Choi and soprano Nathalie Colas perform a program of solo and collaborative music from the classical piano and vocal literature.

Join us for a reception in the lobby following the event!

Job Fairs/Career Advancement Events Engineering & Manufacturing Job Fair April 13, 1-4 p.m.

T Building Chicagoland companies will be on Triton College’s campus recruiting for full-time, part-time and internship opportunities during the Engineering & Manufacturing Job Fair. Job seekers should bring multiple copies of their resume to provide to potential employers.

The Triton Community Band features this year’s Concerto-Aria Competition winners in an evening featuring the community’s finest musicians.

Triton Engineering Technology, Automotive and Manufacturing Job Fair- April 13 Chicagoland employers from a variety of industries, including engineering technology, automotive and manufacturing will be at Triton College recruiting for full-time and part-time positions. The Engineering Technology, Automotive and Manufacturing Job Fair is Thursday, April 13, from 1 - 4 p.m.

The event will be held in room T-156 (T Building) on the east side of Triton College’s campus, 2000 Fifth Ave., River Grove, Il. The job fair is open to community members and free to attend. Job seekers should bring multiple copies of their resume to provide to potential employers.

For more information, contact Rich Williams at (708) 456-0300, ext. 3805, or e-mail richwilliams@triton.edu.

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patients at fire scenes.

WORLD MUSIC SERIES University of Chicago South Asian Music Ensemble April 18, Noon Student Center Cafeteria (B Building) The University of Chicago’s South Asian Music Ensemble (SAME) rehearses weekly to learn and perform song traditions from South India as well as popular, folk and classical songs in Kannada, Tamil, Urdu, Hindi, Punjabi, Telugu, Marathi, Malayalam and Bangla. SAME performs at the University of Chicago each spring as well as in community events, such as Rockefeller Chapel’s celebration of Diwali and commemorations of other events at temples and conventions in the Chicagoland area. Website: arts. uchicago.edu

FULL STEAM AHEAD! Triton College’s first ever STEAM Expo will provide students from throughout the area an exciting opportunity to explore the many ways that the STEAM fields – Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics – factor into their everyday lives.

Mark your calendars for the STEAM Expo, Saturday, April 22, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., in the Collins Gymnasium (R Building) on the east side of campus, located at 2000 Fifth Ave., River Grove.

This FREE interactive event is open to the community and will feature dozens of hands-on activities and demonstrations that will capture students’ imagination and inspire them to pursue their goals. Attendees will participate in challenging contests for a chance to win great prizes.

Food provided by Triton’s culinary program students will be available for purchase. In one activity, attendees will be introduced to the world of robotics as they build their own Lego™ robot that will move in ways they never imagined possible. Expert builders from Triton’s Engineering/ Technology Department will be on hand to help.

Another exhibit will feature faculty and students from Triton’s Fire Science Program demonstrating the role that math plays in helping firefighters keep communities safe as they battle dangerous blazes. With a working fire rig on display, you will see how firefighters determine which hose is most appropriate to fight each fire, calculating water pressure and other factors. The exhibit will also demonstrate the mechanics involved in delivering artificial ventilation to

The STEAM Expo will also serve as a celebration of Earth Day, featuring a display designed to educate the public about the benefits of energy saving ‘smart grid’ technology, as well as other tips for living a greener lifestyle. STEAM Expo activities are age-appropriate for middle school students, though children and adults of all ages are invited to attend. For information on the event, call (708) 456-0300, Ext. 3695.

Community Choir Joann Cho, Director April 25, 7:30 p.m.

Performing Arts Center of the Robert M. Collins Center (R Building, Room R-218) In celebration of spring, the Triton Community Choir performs a program of music inspired by the seasons and the theme of renewal.

Directed by Joann Cho, guest soloists join the choir in this program for an evening of both energizing and contemplative choral music.

Hospitality Job Fair April 26, 10 a.m.-Noon B-204/210 (B Building, Second Floor) Employers from hotels, restaurants and nonprofit organizations will participate in the Hospitality Job Fair. For more information, call (708) 456-0300, Ext 3789, or email Jacquelinegordon@triton.edu.

Community Band Future Leaders, Directors May 1, 7:30 p.m.

Performing Arts Center of the Robert M. Collins Center (R Building, Room R-218) The Triton Community Band is proud to welcome the winners of the first-ever essay competition to the podium! Three young musicians from the community will have the opportunity to lead the ensemble and showcase their talents! The concert will also feature faculty pianist Akiko Konishi in an exciting performance of George Gershwin’s quintessential work, Rhapsody in Blue.

Triton College Open House May 6, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

There will be plenty of information available for everyone in the family at the Triton College Open House.

Current and prospective students and their families can meet faculty, staff and students, speak with admissions representatives, learn about financial aid and scholarships, learn about Triton’s programs, tour the campus and experience the Triton difference.

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Everyone who attends the open house may enter to win a FREE three-credit-hour course from Triton, a value of more than $200!

You must R.S.V.P. in advance to be entered into the raffle. To confirm attendance, call (708) 456-0300, Ext. 3130, or register at www.triton.edu/ openhouse About Triton College Triton College is a two-year community college dedicated to helping members of the 25

communities in Western Cook County within our district and beyond achieve educational, professional and personal success. Located in River Grove, Ill., Triton offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs at its 100-acre campus that features a comfortable, friendly and diverse atmosphere. Triton also holds classes at several satellite locations as well as offers online learning opportunities.

Our dedicated faculty and staff work to provide high quality, convenient and affordable education opportunities to more than 12,000 students each year. Triton College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission; member, North Central Association.

Learn more at www.triton.edu.

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