August 2018 Village of Westchester Newsletter

Village of

Westchester AUGUST

POLICE DEPARTMENT

2018

Newsletter

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FIRE DEPARTMENT

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CALENDAR

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PUBLIC WORKS

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SCHOOL DISTRICT

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PARK DISTRICT

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LIBRARY

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From Trustee Celestino The first week in July was a very special week within the Village of Westchester. On Independence Day brought Westchester’s Annual Parade. This perennial event always brings out and brings back friends, families, as well as many neighbors who organize yard parties to celebrate the day and view the festivities right from their own doorsteps. The Parade Planning Staff coordinated a large group of participants. Almost 50 entries were involved. The Proviso West NJROTC and Westchester’s American Legion led off the event followed by Westchester’s Police and Fire Departments as well as 1st Responders and their emergency equipment from various neighboring communities. The diversity of the participants was outstanding. Westchester’s Schools as well as other local educational See CELESTINO, page 2

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CELESTINO, from page 1

institutions came to cheer the crowds. Parade viewers were entertained by dance groups, local musicians and student marching bands. This was a truly local event with the Park District, local churches, volunteer community service and athletic organizations, Troops from the Boys & Girl Scouts, and many local businesses attended show their support for this great event.

This was followed by the return of a long running Village and very popular and well attended event that gives the residents the opportunity to enjoy themselves with friends and neighbors.

It also those who grew up in town to come back and have a impromptu reunion.

The three day Westchester Fest came back to the grounds of St. Joseph High School. Over 16 individual food venders were present to make it difficult for all the patrons to choose what to do in order to curb their appetites. Many of the vendors were returning favorites, many restaurants located in town as well as local community service organizations who took the opportunity to promote themselves and to raise funds that will be used to benefit Westchester and the surrounding areas. It was said if people left the Fest hungry it was their own fault.

Friday night began with Village President Gattuso welcoming and thanking everyone for coming and introducing the opening musical group. The great weather over the weekend added to the enjoyment of the large crowds who came to see Westchester’s own favorite musicians and bands as well as a variety of music performances by area groups. Sunday night finished the fest with a group that not only brought back the memories of a famous movie filmed in chicagoland, but also made the entire crowd stand up with the introduction of the performers with the help of Westchester’s Police Department.

The Fest concluded a great week in Westchester and help to make a lot of happy memories.

The Village Board wants to thank not only the residents for the opportunity to put together events like these but also all the individuals who we’re involved with these events. The Village staff, the volunteers, many who have done so for a great many years who help to organize and promote as well as coordinate the events many individuals as well as all the entertainers especially the local bands and musicians, and all the food patrons. The dedication and commitment by all those involved is what made these events successful and make our community a great place to live.

Police Department AUGUST 2018

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A Message from the Police Chief – Steven Stelter I want to take this time to say “THANK YOU” to all the residents and business owners who continue to take the time to reach out to the members of the Police Department in expressing your support for their hard work in keeping the Village a safe place to live, work and visit. The culture today is one that has become fashionable to criticize the work and decisions made by a law enforcement officer; the demands of the job have never been greater, yet we continue to go out and do the very best we can to serve the community. It is very heart-warming to us to know that so many of our citizens stand behind us and the work we do. So again “THANK YOU” and I hope you enjoy the rest of your summer.

I want to let everyone know that the police department will bring the Citizens Police Academy back this winter for those interested in attending. We will be holding classes for ten weeks, taking place every Wednesday evening from 6:30pm to 9:30pm beginning in early January. Those interested in attending will learn about the dayto-day operations of police work. Topics covered will be: Patrol Techniques, Terrorism, Self-Defense, Firearms, SWAT, Bomb Unit, Gangs & Drugs, Traffic Stops / DUI; just to mention a few. Applications are online on the Village website or can be picked up at the police department. Those applying must fill out a brief application and be subject to a criminal history check. The Citizens Police Academy is a wonderful way to enhance the relationship between the police department and community; and for you to meet and establish a personal relationship with the members of the department. I look forward to meeting you as well and the relationship we will have as we move into the future. If you have any questions, please contact Officer Rob Verber at 708-345-0060 x440.

Just a reminder the Cook County Sheriff ’s Department placed a drug take back box in the lobby of the Village Hall for all individuals that have the need to dispose of medications that are expired or are left behind from a loved one. The Sheriff will maintain the box and dispose of the medications legally with no responsibility to the Village. I want to thank the Sheriff for this program. If you have old medications or medications from a lost loved one, come on down to the Village Hall and deposit them in the drug box located in the front lobby.

Lastly, I want to thank all those that came out for “National Night Out’ on August 7th. It was full of fun and enjoyment for those who participated. I want to thank Officer Rob Verber for all his hard work in making sure the event went off successfully.

I also want to congratulate the following officers who have work anniversaries this month: Officer Rob Verber 29 years August 2nd Sgt. Rich Stieber 24 years August 31st Frank Esposito

4 years August 25th Police Services Coordinator Sarah Hribal 7 years August 29th Community Service Officer

POLICE BLOTTER

1) At 11:40am on June 23, 2018 a Burglary to Auto was reported in the parking lot at 31st and Wolf. The vehicle owner reported that unknown subject(s) entered the vehicle by breaking the rear window and removing a camera and other items.

2) At 4:31pm on June24, 2018 a Ruse Burglary was reported on the 1600 block of Buckingham. 2 males rang the doorbell asking for water. After entering the home they ransacked the bedroom while the homeowner getting the water. The subjects left in a pickup truck after taking money from the house.

3) At 1:39 pm on June 28, 2018 a Retail Theft was reported at the Walgreens located at 10345 Roosevelt Road. A male and female were arrested and charged after leaving the store with $78 in merchandise.

4) At 12:59pm on June 29, 2018 a Residential Burglary was reported at the 11100 block of Nelson. A

resident reported that between 1pm and midnight, unknown person(s) forced entry to the residence and removed various personal belongings.

5) At 7:50pm on June 30, 2018 a Criminal Trespass to Vehicle arrest was made on the 1200 block of Westchester Blvd, when an officer stopped a driver for being in a vehicle that was taken without permission.

6) At 12:46pm on July 4, 2018 an Attempted Theft was reported at the Sprint Phone Store located at 10356 Roosevelt Road. 2 males attempted to leave the store with an IPhone but dropped the phone as they were exiting the store.

7) At 10:38pm on July 5, 2018 a Stolen License Plate was reported on the 600 block of Gardner Road.

Unknown person(s) removed a license plate from a vehicle parked in front of a home on Gardner Road.

Fire Department 4

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AUGUST 2018

Circelli tabbed as new Director of Finance

It is with great pleasure we would like to welcome Trina M. Circelli as our Director of Finance at the Village of Westchester. Trina is a US Navy Veteran and a resident of Westchester. Her educational background consists of a Bachelor of Commerce Degree from DePaul University and a Masters in Taxation Degree from the University of Illinois at Champaign- Urbana. She joins the Village with over 13 year experience within Public and Corporate sectors.

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Handmade Craft Lovers have a new place to call “home” in the Western Suburbs Making and learning crafts is a fun and way to spend quality time with friends and family, reduce stress and grow, according to local serial crafter, Ms. Cherise Greski.

Many crafters want to try new things.

However, it can be confusing, expensive and time consuming to figure out where to start. Most crafters that Ms. Greski spoke with have overflowing rooms/closets/basements with tools and toys they’ve been meaning to learn and never got around to.

After researching the possibility of creating a cooperative, Ms. Greski decided to open up her own creative space – Joyfully Crafting Studio and Gift Gallery at 10708 W 31st Street, Westchester IL. The studio will offer members the ability to try out different crafting tools

and toys, ask questions and explore new techniques. For those who wish to occasionally use the studio, there will be fee based sessions available as well.

By having the tools and instruction available, crafters will be able to play and experiment with various crafts before making larger investments in time and equipment.

Ms. Greski also believes in giving back and as part of her “Share the Wealth” program, will provide space for members to do crafts that will be given to charitable organizations.

Along with studio space to play and explore, Joyfully Crafting studios will offer monthly classes in a wide variety of crafting techniques such as papercraft, jewelry, mixed media, pottery, painting, mosaics and more.

She will also be offering classes on new

technologies like Cricut®, Brother®, heat press, sewing, embroidery and others.

The studio is an intimate setting to learn, play and create joyfully. Parties, girls night out and other gatherings can be arranged for up to 10 people depending on the craft. Childrens classes will also be available starting in the Fall.

“One of the joys of crafting is to share what we create. To address that, there is a gift gallery offering the creations of the members for sale to the public. We already have handmade soaps, aromatherapy jewelry, crochet, memorial art and made to order items available for purchase”, Ms. Greski shared.

Ms. Greski has been making and providing various craft classes for

almost forty years – starting at the tender age of 8 with a velvet paint by numbers set and has been joyfully crafting ever since. With a space over flowing with crafting toys, she decided to share with others her love and enjoyment of crafts.

Initial summer studio and gallery hours are Tue-Thur from 3pm to 9pm; Fri and Saturday from 11am to 3pm.

Call 708-466-5233 for additional times, drop in sessions and other availablility.

The website is JoyfullyCrafting.com and they can be found on Facebook at JoyfullyCrafting or follow on Twitter at JoyfullyCraftin Contact: Cherise Greski support@joyfullycrafting.com 10708 W 31st Street, Westchester IL 60154 - 708-466-5233

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Grace Lutheran Church Annual Fun Fair

at 1101 Manchester, Westchester August 19, 2018 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM $5.00 Admission Includes Food & Drink Ticket Children 2 and Under Free Game Tickets Sold Separately BRING THIS IN AND RECEIVE $1.00 OFF Dunk tank, Bounce House, Games of Skill, Prizes Galore!

(Hot Dogs & Chips, Nachos & Cheese, Beverages and Dessert) **Services are at 10:00 am on Sundays.

ALL ARE WELCOME!!!!

DIVINE PROVIDENCE – AUGUST 2018 CALENDAR Aug 1 - 7:30 Mass & 4:30p Tai Chi Chuan - Church Narthex – Divine Providence Church Aug 2 - 7:30 Mass – Divine Providence Church Aug 3 - 7:30 Communion Service & 8am Eucharistic Adoration - Ministry Center – Divine Providence Church Aug 4 - 3:15p Confessions & 4:00p Mass - Divine Providence Church Aug 5 - 8:30 & 10:30 Mass- Divine Providence Church Aug. 5 – Worship Service 10:00 am Westchester Community Church – 1840 Westchester Blvd 708-865-1282 – All welcome Aug 6 - 7:30 Mass - Divine Providence Church Aug 7 - 7:30 Mass - Divine Providence Church Aug 8 - 7:30 Mass & 4:30p Tai Chi Chuan

- Church Narthex- Divine Providence Church Aug 9 - 7:30 Mass & 9am Quilters - Ministry Center- Divine Providence Church Aug 10 - 7:30 Communion Service & St. Peregrine Devotion - Divine Providence Church Aug 11 - 9:30 Baptismal Prep 3:15p Confessions & 4:00p Mass - Divine Providence Church Aug 12 - 8:30 & 10:30 Mass - Divine Providence Church Aug 12- Worship Service 10:00 am Westchester Community Church – 1840 Westchester Blvd 708-865-1282 – All welcome Aug 13 - 7:30 Mass - Divine Providence Church Aug 14 - 7:30 Mass & 6:30p Family Info Night – Gym - Divine Providence Church Aug 15 - 7:30 Mass & 4:30p Tai Chi Chuan - Church Narthex - Divine Providence Church

Aug 16 -7:30 Mass - Divine Providence Church Aug 17 - 7:30 Communion Service Divine Providence Church Aug 18 - 3:15p Confessions & 4:00p Mass - Divine Providence Church Aug 18 – Youth Group Car Wash – 8:30 -11:30 am Cars $ 5.00 Trucks $ 8.00. All Proceeds go towards our Youth Group Summer Mission Trip .

Aug 19 - 8:30 & 10:30 Mass –Divine Providence Church Aug 19 - Worship Service 10:00 am Westchester Community Church – 1840 Westchester Blvd 708-865-1282 – All welcome Aug 20 - 7:30 Mass & 8am 1st Day of School - Divine Providence Church Aug 21 - 7:30 Mass & 6:00p BSJ/FSA Mtg - Divine Providence Church Aug 22 - 8:00 Mass w/Students & 4:30p Tai Chi Chuan - Church Narthex - Divine Providence Church Aug 23 - 7:30 Mass & 9am Quilters -

Ministry Center - Divine Providence Church Aug 24 7:30 Communion Service Divine Providence Church Aug 25 - 3:15p Confessions & 4:00p Mass & 5pm Back to School BBQ – Gym - Divine Providence Church Aug 26 - 8:30 & 10:30 Mass - Divine Providence Church Aug 26 - Worship Service 10:00 am Westchester Community Church – 1840 Westchester Blvd 708-865-1282 – All welcome Aug 27 - 7:30 Mass - Divine Providence Church Aug 28 -7:30 Mass - Divine Providence Church Aug 29 - 8:00 Mass w/Students & 4:30p Tai Chi Chuan - Church Narthex - Divine Providence Church Aug 30 - 7:30 Mass - Divine Providence Church Aug 31 - 7:30 Communion Service Divine Providence Church

Public Works 8

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Westchester Public Works Branch Pick-up Branch pickup for August will be August 6-10, 2018 Branch pickup for September will be September 10-14, 2018 Branch pickup for October will be October 1-5, 2018 The Public Works Department will pick up branches the first full week of every month. (April-November) All brush must be put out on the front parkway no later than 7:00 a.m. on the designated pickup day. Branches can be up to 7 ‘in length and stacked with the butt ends facing the street in the same direction.

If not stacked properly, a “restack” notice will be left.

Public Works Crews will only pass through a designated pickup area once due to time schedule and other workload responsibilities.

Thursday and Friday are Open Load days for pickup of any brush that will not fit through the chipper, such as logs, stumps, and large limbs. These must be cut for one man to lift.

Dirt must be removed from the root ball

for pick-up.

Landscaping contractors are responsible for their own brush pickup and disposal.

Please note the following schedule for branch pickup:

day every week.

Free yard waste stickers for reusable yard waste receptacles are available at the Public Works office and the Village Hall.

Pothole Repair

MONDAY: From Mannheim Road west to Wolf Road and from Canterbury south to Windsor-including both sides of Windsor Drive. Also, Waterford, Waverly, Camelot and Concord.

The Public Works Department repairs potholes throughout the Village, weather permitting. Please call Public Works at 708-345-0041 to report potholes.

TUESDAY: Roosevelt Road south to Cermak Road-from Gardner Road west to Mannheim Road.

The vac and jet machine will continue to clean out storm sewer inlets, as weather permits.

WEDNESDAY:From Roosevelt Road north to the expressway and from Gardner Road west to Mannheim Road.

Also, Roosevelt Road south to Canterbury from Haase west to Heidorn.

As Always…..

Village residents are asked to call Public Works at 708-345-0041 or the Police Non Emergency number after hours at 708345-0060 if an unusual amount of water is visible in the street or parkway.

This could be a main break or water leak that requires our immediate attention.

THURSDAY: From Belleview west to Wolf Road, Martindale Drive to 31st Street Remember….. Waste Management will also pick up your branches if they are bundled no more than 4’ in length. These will be picked up on your regular garbage

50/50 Shared Cost Parkway Tree Program Beautify your yard and add to the curb appeal of your home….

The Village offers a 50/50 shared cost program that includes the purchase and planting of a new parkway tree.

Residents have a choice of 5 types of trees indigenous to the area.

The trees will be planted in November 2018.

Please call Public Works at 708-345-0041 to register.

Sprinkling Ban Reminder We have water use restrictions in effect every year, May 15-September 15, from 12pm to 6pm. This includes: (1) (2) (3) (4)

Outdoor Watering Cleaning Outdoor Surfaces Cleaning Buildings Pool Filling

Sprinkling during unrestricted hours (before noon, after 6pm) shall be allowed on even numbered days for those even numbered addresses, and on odd numbered days for those residents having odd numbered addresses.

If we have a dry summer, further restrictions may be necessary.

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School District 10

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School District AUGUST 2018

School District - Continued on page 22

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St. Joseph 12

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St. Joseph AUGUST 2018

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Park District 14

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Library AUGUST 2018

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Choosing a contractor Home improvements and repairs can cost thousands of dollars and are the subject of frequent consumer complaints. If you need work done on your home, keep these things in mind when selecting a contractor: When Selecting a Contractor • Get recommendations and references. Talk to friends, family and others who have used the contractor for similar work.

• Get at least three written estimates. Insist the contractors come to your home to evaluate what needs to be done. Be sure the estimates are based on the same work so that you can make meaningful comparisons.

• Check contractor complaint records. For a list of our local consumer protection agencies, please visit http://www.usa.gov/directory/ stateconsumer/illinois.shtml.

You could also check with the Better Business Bureau.

• Make sure the contractor

meets licensing and registration requirements. For a list of our local consumer protection agencies, please visit http://www.usa.gov/directory/ stateconsumer/illinois.shtml.

• Contact the Community Development Department to check for permit and inspection requirements.

Be wary if the contractor asks you to get the permit; it could mean the firm is not licensed.

• Be sure your contractor is insured. They should have personal liability, property damage and worker’s compensation insurance for workers and subcontractors. Also check with your insurance company to find out if you are covered for any injury or damage that might occur.

• Insist on a written contract that states exactly what work will be done, the quality of materials that will be used, warranties, timetables, the names of any subcontractors, the total price of the job, and the schedule of

payments.

• Try to limit your down payment. Some states have laws limiting the amount of down payment required.

• Don’t make a final payment or sign a final release until you are satisfied with the work and know that subcontractors and suppliers have been paid. Some state laws allow unpaid subcontractors and suppliers to put a lien on your home for bills the contractor failed to pay.

• Pay by credit card when you can. You may have the right to withhold payment to the credit card company until problems are corrected.

Be especially cautious if the contractor: • Comes door-to-door or seeks you out; • Just happens to have material left over from a recent job; • offers you discounts for finding other customers;

• quotes a price that’s out of line with other estimates; • pressures you for an immediate decision; • offers an unusually long guarantee; • can only be reached by leaving messages with an answering service; • drives an unmarked van; • has out-of state license plates; or • asks you to pay for the entire job up front.

Information above was prepared by the US Government. For more tips on selecting a contractor, check the US Government’s website at http://blog. usa.gov/post/88274027165/how-topick-a-contractor-for-home-repairs Additional information can be found at the Illinois Attorney General’s website Home Repair: Know your consumer rights (http:// www.illinoisattor neyg eneral.g ov/ consumers/homerep0505c.pdf)

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Park District AUGUST 2018

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