December 2012 Newsletter by Village of Westchester, IL

Village of

Westchester

December 2012 Newsletter

From the Desk of The President FIRE DEPARTMENT

POLICE DEPARTMENT

CALENDAR

PARK DISTRICT

The starting line of the Westchester Veterans Day Run held on November 9th.

IT’S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR

LIBRARY NEWS

GOOD NEIGHBORS

PUBLIC WORKS

No sooner have we finished our Thanksgiving dinner and the brave ones went out to tackle Black Friday, we stop and realize that we are in the midst of the hustle and bustle of another Holiday Season and wondering what happened to 2012. December is one of my favorite months. Not only do I celebrate my birthday, but December brings out the best in all of us as we think of all the ways we can embrace this season of giving and reach out to those less fortunate than us. We all know that there is much uncertainty surrounding us, and problems both locally and nationally affect all of us. Our economy has been weak and we all know someone in our family, among our friends, and in our community that could use some help, and, from what I have seen, the good people of this great Village always seem to be willing rise to lend a helping hand. This is what makes Westchester not just a Village, but a community of neighbors willing to help each other.

As the month progresses, I am sure you will see plenty of holiday spirit in Westchester. The Village light poles along Mannheim Road will be adorned with three varieties of lighted snowflakes, and holiday banners will be interspersed on the poles along the route. I know it is not possible for everyone to put decorations inside and outside of our homes, but if you are able, go that extra mile and not only put up your own, but take the time to assist your neighbor if they need a helping hand. This will not only bring you and your neighbors closer, but will also brighten up the neighborhood for all, but most importantly for the children who love holiday decorations. When I was a child, my parents would pack up the car and we would ride up and down the streets of Westchester in awe of the magnificent decorations that donned the streets. It was a special family event. I can also recall driving the streets as a police officer and seeing every house on Becket and the surrounding streets aglow with all bright white “Italian” lights glistening in the

See PRESIDENT, page 4

Fire Department 2

DECEMBER 2012

Police Department DECEMBER 2012

Holiday safety tips

Name: Joseph Motto Rank: Police Officer Years as Police Officer: 13 What made you choose police officer as a profession? Police officers have the ability to change a person’s life. It could be a teenager needing direction away from drugs and gangs or a criminal who needs to be put in jail before they hurt someone.

Describe a good day at work. Conquering daily challenges effectively and without anybody getting hurt.

What is the best part of your job? As a member of the NIPAS SWAT Team, I have the benefit of training with some of the best instructors in the country. This training is then brought back and taught to all of our Westchester Police Officers

What advice would you give someone looking to be a police officer? Train your mind and body equally. You will need to think and act in a split second and then be judged by the public for the rest of your life.

What would occur on your perfect day off? Spend time with my wife, two children and new puppy.

Police blotter 1) At 2:20am on October 17th 2012, a Motor Vehicle Theft was reported on the 900 block of Westchester Blvd. The resident reported that an unknown person took their 1996 silver Acura Integra between 6:00pm and 2:20am that day while parked in front of their house. 2) At 4:27pm on October 19th 2012, a Retail Theft was reported on the 10100 block of Roosevelt. The business owner of the convenience store reported that an unknown customer took a bottle of whiskey from the store. 3) At 4:27pm on October 24th 2012, a Residential Burglary was reported on the 1500 block of Hull.The resident reported that between 8:00am and 5:00pm, unknown person(s) forced open the side door to their residence and removed several watches.

central air conditioning units from the rear of the building. 5) At 9:42am on November 8th 2012, a Burglary to Garage was reported on the 700 block of Hull.The resident reported that unknown person(s) forced open their garage entry door. Nothing was taken. 6) At 10:52pm on November 11th 2012, a Residential Burglary was reported on the 900 block of Worchester. The resident reported that between 5:00pm and 10:30pm unknown person(s) made entry to the house by force and took jewelry and money from the house.

7) At 11:22pm on November 11th 2012, an Attempted Residential Burglary was reported on the 1500 block of Balmoral.The resident advised that between 5:00pm and 11:30pm unknown person(s) attempted to 4) At 12:05pm on October 28th gain entry into their house. 2012, a Theft was reported on the The rear entry door had damage from 1100 block of Westchester Blvd. an unknown tool used to attempt The property owner reported that entry. Entry was not made to the unknown person(s) removed two residence.

Westchester Police remind residents of a few simple steps to take to ensure their holiday season is safe and enjoyable: • LOCK ALL YOUR DOORS! This applies to your home as well as your automobiles and garages. • Keep all valuables out of sight. Don’t leave your GPS, radar detector, laptop computer, purse, briefcase, wallet etc… in open view in your vehicle. • When shopping, carry only the credit card or the amount of cash you plan on using. Report lost or stolen credit cards to your bank and then police. • Don’t hang purses or back packs on the back of a chair in a restaurant or leave it in the child’s seat section of the store shopping carts. Pick pockets love those who do… • Practice ATM safety. Avoid ATM’s that look like they’ve been tampered with. Keep your PIN number secret and don’t write it on the card. Put cash away immediately. Surrender your wallet, purse, etc… if confronted. Don’t resist or struggle. Report the crime to the police immediately. • Shop safely on the internet. Buy from companies you are familiar with and trust. Look for the “padlock”

Lock your home when you leave to shop.

sign on the website. NEVER give out personal information online or on the phone such as your social security number, driver’s license or bank account information. • And last but not least “Drive Smart and Drive Sober”. Always appoint a designated driver or call a taxi when out celebrating and indulging in alcoholic beverages. And don’t forget…texting or e-mailing while driving is illegal!

DECEMBER 2012

PRESIDENT Continued from page 1

snow on all the parkways trees. The unofficial contest between Becket and the red coated Holiday Soldiers along Wakefield from Boeger Ave. to Wolf Road was legendary. Even bus tours would come through our town to view the decorations. Sometimes the traffic would get so backed up that the police would have to direct traffic. I would like each and every one of use to make an effort to put the holiday spirit in our hearts once again and reach out and share that spirit with those around us. I am sure you will find the joy of reaching out to others this holiday season will be the greatest gift you can give.

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS T-SHIRT SALES As previously reported, the Westchester Fire Department sold Breast Cancer Awareness T-Shirts during the month of October. In total, the Village was able to raise $1, 075 to help find a cure for Breast Cancer. Congratulations to the Westchester Fire Department, especially organizer Firefighter Jason Sudaz, for running another successful fundraising event.

WATER RATE INCREASE JANUARY 1, 2013 The Village of Westchester purchases its water from the Broadview Westchester Joint Water Agency (BWJWA). BWJWA purchases the water supply from the City of Chicago. The City of Chicago will increase its water rates 15% as of January 1, 2013. Based on the increase in the City of Chicago water charges, BWJWA has approved an increase in its water rate of 12% of the existing rate or $.37 per 1000 gallons of water consumed effective January 1, 2013. Based on the increase in the Village’s cost of purchased water, the Village water rate per 1000 gallons will be raised by the $.37 increase in the Village’s purchase price of the water to cover our increased costs. This will result in a water rate increase charged to consumers from $6.86 to $7.23 per 1000 gallons effective January 1.

ELECTION RESULTS

Words cannot express how grateful I am to all voters who approved our Non-Home Rule Tax referendum on November 6th. I would like to thank the Westchester Residents for Neighborhood Street Improvements VILLAGE HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING and Flood Relief that recognized the The Village staff has again selected an need to keep the momentum we evergreen tree donated by a resident have generated since 2009, moving to stand tall outside Fire Station forward to improve our street and Number 1 just east of the Post Office infrastructure repairs. I would also on Roosevelt Road. like to thank you, the resident voters, This year we received calls from 18 for your overwhelming support of residents willing to volunteer their 67% voting in favor of the referendum. tree. The selected tree was located at I, along with the entire Village Board 11152 Shaw, the home of the Phillips and staff, will continue to work for Family. The tree was cut down on your best interests by spending this November 19th, and was a sight revenue in the most prudent way to to see as it travelled down Cermak improve our streets and infrastructure. Road to Mannheim, and then east on The penny on the dollar will begin Roosevelt to the Fire Station. Once being collected on January 1, 2013. again, Rick Sinnott, of Sinnott Tree The more we and our visiting guests Service, our Village contracted tree shop in town, the more revenue we trimming service, donated his time, receive. staff, and equipment to make this happen. Our Village crew, under the direction of Master Decorator Eric, VETERANS DAY CEREMONIES On November 9th, I was invited “the light man” Détente used their creative abilities to bring the beauty and attended an assembly at Proviso West High School. The NJROTC and joy of the holiday season to all. I would like to invite all of our Program Director, Cdr. Gerard Egler, residents and guests to the Village and Principal Dr. Roudell Kirkwood Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony on organized two separate assemblies Friday, December 7th at 7:00 pm. I where the entire student body and have used my influence and have staff were able to thank all of our promised some milk and cookies to active, retired, and deceased military a man with a white beard, a red suit, personnel. I felt honored to represent and a jolly laugh named Santa who our Village at my alma mater Proviso agreed to stop by a little early to say West and be in the company of all 18 hello. Please come out, and bring the honorees. There were 2 World War kids, big and small, and join us for II Veterans who received a standing ovation for their service over 67 some Holiday cheer. years ago. Student NJROTC members

spoke about the history of Veterans Day, the definition of a veteran, and read a proclamation from President Barack Obama. Mr. Barry Cicero, the 1st division Commander of the American Legion, which represents our Westchester American Legion Post, also reflected on the service of our military personnel and their examples of sacrifice in performing their duty. The Proviso West Chorus and Proviso West Band provided the music and patriotic songs that brought the assembly together as one united group. I also had the honor of attending a similar assembly at the Westchester Middle School where Westchester Boy Scout Troop 73 posted the colors of our nation and state before Staff Sergeant Derrick Waters, grandson of Jack and Helen Waters, and son of retired Westchester Fire Captain James Waters, spoke about his tour of duty in Afghanistan and what being a veteran meant to him. It was a very moving speech. The culmination of our Veterans Day celebration was The Veteran’s Day Run held on Sunday, November 11th, at the Mayfair Park Veterans’ Memorial. The weather was sunny and clear with a little bit of wind as the nearly 300 runners and walkers completed their registration. Park District President Steven Busa, Westchester Community Church Pastor Joseph Mills, Dr.Thomas Sullivan and I offered commentary about our military veterans and what their sacrifice and dedication to duty meant for not only Westchester, but the Unites States of America. Maureen Pulia and Dr.

Sullivan honored the veterans with the singing of our national anthem. Park District Commissioner Donnie Luciano fired the starter pistol at 9:15 am, and the race began. The 3.2 mile 5k race proceeded south on Mayfair to 31st Street, east to the Cook County Forest Preserve, north to Cermak Rd. and then back through the town to Mayfair Park. A 1 mile walk also commenced a short time later where non runners could participate and show their support as well. The event was another example of what positive things can be accomplished by working together. Thank you to all who made this honorary event possible.

WESTCHESTER FOOD DRIVE I would like to thank all of the participants and volunteers of our Thanksgiving Food Drive this year. Collections were made at our schools, as well as door to door pickups with the help of our Boy Scouts from Troop 73. Door to door pickups were done on Saturday, November 16th, with all of the items, including retired American Flags and eyeglasses being sorted out at the Westchester Community Church. Westchester Food Pantry Coordinator Judy Saraceno-Swenson, and her volunteer staff of adults and school aged children from the girl scouts and area high schools are to be thanked and recognized for their participation. We also received 15 Thanksgiving boxes from the Chicagoland Italian

See PRESIDENT, page 9

DECEMBER 2012

Community Development 6

DECEMBER 2012

Welcome Home Heroes financing package TheWelcome Home Heroes financing package was launched to honor those who sacrifice to safeguard our freedom, Welcome Home Heroes is open to all qualified Illinois veterans, active military personnel, reservists and Illinois National Guard members. The Welcome Home Heroes homebuyer financing package includes: • a $10,000 forgiveable loan over two years for down payment and closing cost assistance • a 30-year fixed rate mortgage that has an affordable interest rate • an optional mortgage credit certificate to reduce federal income tax liability. Eligibility • Veterans (who need not be firsttime homebuyers) • Active military personnel, reservists and Illinois National Guard members (must be first-time homebuyers) • Buyers must qualify based on income and purchase price limits.

How to apply Interested buyers must apply through a lender in their area. The program only applies to 1-2 unit residential

Westchester residents, Mr. & Mrs. Serda, recipients of the Welcome Home Heroes financing package.

properties in the State of Illinois 3 Westbrook Corporate Ctr purchased as a primary residence. Westchester IL 60154 The new loan builds on the existing 708-531-9060 affordable home loan, SmartMove, also available through IHDA’s lenders. Source: Illinois Housing Development For more information on this Authority (http://www.ihda.org/ program, please contact: homeowner/heroes.htm) Top Flite Financial, Inc. New Businesses 1 Westbrook Corporate Ctr Westchester IL 60154 The Village would like to welcome 630-466-7250 these new businesses into our community. Stop in and visit. United Home Loans Inc.

Remember,it is always great to support our local businesses. October 2012 • American Homes 4 Rent Management 1 Westbrook Corp Ctr , Ste 300 • Envogue Wigs 11059 Roosevelt Rd • Crown Affair Hair Studio 10436 Cermak Road • Marianne’s Attic Community Handyman Services 9825 Roosevelt Road

School News DECEMBER 2012

Westchester Public Schools, District 92½ notes Regarding the tax levy … Soon you will be seeing Westchester Public Schools, District 92½’s, tax levy published in the local paper. The property tax is the primary source of revenue for the school district. The elementary school district is also the local government body receiving the highest amount of monies generated by your property taxes. This is not unusual for Westchester; rather, this is how Illinois has funded its schools for years. This year the district is levying a 9% increase over those monies extended the previous year. However, that does not mean that the residents of Westchester will see a 9% increase. No, not at all! In fact because of the Property Tax Extension Limitation Law, the district is limited to a 3% increase over those monies extended the previous year. “In accordance with the tax cap requirements of the Property Tax Extension Limitation Law, … tax revenues will be limited to 3.0 percent more than the amount extended … based on the Consumer Price Index released in January, 2012” (http://www. cookcountyclerk.com/tsd/Docume ntLibrary/2011taxratereport.pdf). So, why, then, would District 92½ levy a higher amount? The answer is actually quite simple. We are limited to 3% of those monies received from property taxes last year. However, if there were any property improvements or new properties (business or residential) that came onto the tax rolls after the extension, the school district would not be able to collect those monies due it. So, the district is following a common practice known as “ballooning”. This practice allows the taxing body, in this case District 92½, to collect all the tax monies to which it is entitled. If the district does not capture the property improvements and new properties now, the opportunity to do so is lost forever! We will be limited to the cap of those monies actually received from property taxes the previous year. So, although the higher percentage may shock the reader at first, it is important to know that the Board of Education and District 92½’s administration are actually acting with fiduciary prudence. The children of Westchester deserve the best educational opportunities. The ballooning of the tax levy will help ensure that task is done successfully. In accordance with the law, the Board of Education of Westchester

Westchester Middle School 7th Grade Students Kayla Dorband, Gianna Grossi, Caitlin Seegers, Emily Dettmers, and Juliana Reda pause for the camera at the Halloween Dance on October 26th. The upcoming WMS-PTO Holiday Dance is scheduled for Friday, December 14th.

Public Schools, District 92½, will hold a Truth in Taxation Hearing on December 13, 2012 at 7:00 PM at Westchester Middle School located in the George F. Nixon Building at 1620 Norfolk Avenue, Westchester, IL 60154. This hearing will give the residents of Westchester the opportunity to comment on the proposed tax levy.

Busy semester at WIS This first trimester has been very busy at Westchester Intermediate School. The students and staff have been working hard and we are well on our way this year! The students were welcomed back to school with new technology capabilities. The building is now wireless and students are able to utilize technology anywhere in the building using the Computers on Wheels, otherwise known as the COW. The media center’s desktop computers were replaced with brand new laptop computers for students’ usage throughout the school day. It is very exciting to observe the new technology being used in various parts of the

curriculum. Teachers continue to utilize SmartBoard technology in many of the classrooms. The SmartBoards assist the teachers in delivering a very interactive approach to teaching and learning. Our teachers continue to work diligently to ensure the curriculum is meeting the needs of all students. We look to provide interventions and supports when needed, but also look to provide enrichment opportunities to those students that would benefit from the extra push. The staff is continually working to improve instruction by staying up to date with the latest research and resources that are available. We are very proud of the educational opportunities that we are providing our students at Westchester Intermediate School and are excited to see the progress our students make as the year progresses. At WIS students have the opportunity to participate in enrichment programs such as America’s Battle of the Books and Destination Imagination. In America’s Battle of the Books, students form teams, read books, and compete against other teams

within the school. We are very excited for the competition. This year, we will also offer Destination Imagination, an enrichment program that provides students the opportunity to get involved with the creative process. The creative process includes; recognizing, imagining, initiating, collaborating, assessing, and evaluating. Students have the opportunity to work on challenges with a team to produce an end result. Through this process students work on creativity while also using problem-solving skills! Along with our academic programs, we are very proud of the extracurricular offerings that are available to our students. Our before and after school programs are well under way. This year the students have the opportunity to participate in intramurals, chess club, chorus, mileage club, bookworms reading club, band, and art club. Here at Westchester Intermediate School, we will continue to offer students a variety of activities to prepare them for the future. We will continue to work towards our mission, vision, and beliefs of Westchester School District 92 ½

Calendar 8

DECEMBER 2012

Professional Women Connected (PWC) meets the 1st and 3rd Fridays at The Bistro in Westchester from 8:45 am - 9:45 am. Join a professional group of business women to network and grow your business. Contact Kandice Jacobs (708) 236-5902 for more information. Saturday, December 1: Registration begins for Youth Storytimes, Winter Reading Club, and other youth programs at the Library. Contact Youth Dept at (708) 562-3573. Saturday, December 1: 9:30 am 11:00 pm Scrapbooking/Cardmaking Fundraiser - scrapbook undisturbed from morning til night. Or make cards from 10am - 2pm, all cards will be donated to soldiers overseas to send home to their families. Westchester Community Church, UCC, 1840 Westchester Blvd., Westchester, IL 60154, 708/865-1282. Monday, December 2: Advent Evening of Reflection: “What is This Thing Called Faith” 7:00 PM Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair Tuesday, December 4: Divine Infant Jesus School Advisory Board Meeting at 7:00 pm at the Rectory, 1601 Newcastle Avenue. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. Wednesday, December 5: All School mass at 8:00 am at Divine Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Newcastle Avenue. Come join us. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. Wednesday,December 5:WMSWinter Band Concert, 7:00PM, gymnasium Thursday, December 6: Teetering Tots 9:30-10:30AM - Teetering Tot’s Playgoup would like to welcome tots between the ages of 0-4 to a playgroup in the Divine Providence gym twice a month. The group has been established to provide stay-athome and part-time working parents with a local activity to promote friendships and provide emotional support to parents with children in the early years of their live. We welcome the very young of Westchester, with a parent, into Divine Providence School for some entertainment and socialization. Parents are encouraged to bring any items from bottles to bears that will make the experience more enjoyable for their children. Thursday, December 6: WMS Senior Concert, 10:00AM, gymnasium Thursday, December 6: WIS Winter Chorus Concert, 7:00PM, gymnasium Friday, December 7: 4:30 - 7:30 pm Fish and Chicken Fry at Westchester Community Church, UCC, 1840 Westchester Blvd., Westchester, IL 60154, 708/865-1282. Friday, December 7: Eucharistic

Adoration, 8:00 AM-7:00 PM, Divine Providence Ministry Center Chapel, 2540 Mayfair Saturday, December 8: Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Holyday of Obligation), Masses at 8:30 and 10:30 AM,Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair Sat./Sun. December 9/10: Hospitality celebrating Our Lady of Guadalupe, After 5:00 PM (Sat.) and 8:30 and 10:30 (Sun.) Masses, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair Monday, December 10: 7:00 PM, Sacrament of Reconciliation, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair Monday, December 10: 7:30 AM EDC Meeting in the Community Room of Village Hall. Tuesday, December 11: Divine Providence Over 50 Club will have their Christmas Luncheon at Park Place in Countryside. There will be no meeting on December 5, 2012. Membership will open on January 1st, 2013 to all parishioners of Divine Providence and Divine Infant. Membership is $12.00 for the calendar year. Our meetings are held at 1:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of the month at Divine Providence School. Guests are welcome to our meetings for a $1.00 donation. If you have any questions regarding the Club you can call President Betty @708-5622765. We wish you Happy and Safe Holidays Tuesday, December 11: WIS Winter Band Concert, 7:00PM, gymnasium Wednesday, December 12:All School mass at 8:00 am at Divine Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Newcastle Avenue. Come join us. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. Market Day pick-up from 5:30 – 6:30 pm in Langan Hall at Divine Infant Jesus. Contact Toni Podock at 708865-8071 for more information. Thursday, December 13: The Divine Infant Jesus School student body will be Praying the Rosary - 2:10 pm at Divine Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Newcastle Avenue. Come join us. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. Thursday, December 13:Westchester Public Schools District 92½ will be conducting a FREE screening for children three, four and five years of age. The screening will take place at Westchester Primary School, 2400 Downing Ave., Westchester, IL. Children will be screened by professionals in the areas of: vision, hearing, speech, language, fine motor, gross motor and cognitive ability. The results of these assessments will provide an indication of the child’s level of development. Appointments

Santa Claus is at the Westchester Library Dec. 15. Registration required.

are being taken now through December 6th by calling (708) 450-2700 Ext. 649. All District 92½ parents of preschool aged children are encouraged to participate. Resource and referral information to Child and Family Connections for DuPage and Cook County will also be available for parents knowing of a child with Special Needs under the age of 3. If you have a question or concern about your child’s development and your child is under 2 years 9 months, please contact your School District or Child and Family Connections. Call: 1-888-KONTACT (566-8228). PLEASE NOTE: THIS SCREENING IS ONLY FOR CHILDREN RESIDING WITHIN DISTRICT 92½. Friday, December 14: WMS Holiday Dance, 2:50-5:15PM, gymnasium Saturday, December 15: Market Day Pick-up 8:30-9:30AM Divine Providence School, 2500 Mayfair Avenue, Westchester, IL 60154 (708)562-2258, www. divineprovidenceschool.org:

Monday, December 17: 1:00 PM, Sacrament of Reconciliation, Divine Providence church 2600 Mayfair Tuesday, December 18: Rescheduled Village Board Meeting at 7:00 pm followed by the Committee of the Whole in the Court Room of Village Hall 10300 W. Roosevelt Rd. Tuesday, December 18: School Christmas Program 7:00PM Divine Providence School, 2500 Mayfair Avenue, Westchester, IL 60154 (708)562-2258, www. divineprovidenceschool.org:

Wednesday, December 19:All School mass at 8:00 am at Divine Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Newcastle Avenue. Come join us. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. P r e - S ch o o l / P r e - K i n d e r g a r t e n Christmas Show at 9:45 am in Langan Hall at Divine Infant Jesus School,1640 Newcastle Ave. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. Saturday, December 15: Here Comes Thursday, December 20: Christmas Santa Claus 1:30 – 3:00 PM at Library. Choral Concert will be held at 1:00 Registration required. Contact Youth See CALENDAR, page 16 Dept at (708) 562-3573.

DECEMBER 2012

PRESIDENT Continued from page 4

American Charitable Organization (C.I.A.C.O.). I, along with Westchester Building Commissioner Anthony Saviano and volunteer Angelo Calcagno, delivered the boxes to 15 families, all with several children. We hope they all had a Happy and delectableThanksgiving. A bigTHANK YOU to all who donated, collected, delivered, sorted, stacked, and stocked, including the Westchester Jewel Osco and Goodwill who provided gift cards to those in need. I would also like to take a moment to recognize Mike Gobber from Real Living Gobber Realty. Mike had shared with me in early October his plan to sell pumpkins for Halloween, and donate the proceeds to the Westchester Food Pantry.Although the weather was not as kind as it should have been, Mike was able to make a profit over and above the $1500 he expended to purchase the pumpkins. My family provided the pumpkins with faces and the “cemetery plot” along Mannheim Road by Jewel Osco to add to the Halloween festivities. Sometimes it is just the little things we do as a community to dress up our town with a little holiday ambiance that sets our community apart from our neighbors.

Governor Quinn speaking in Westchester on November 12th regarding the Welcome Home Heroes program.

outstanding. As member number 293 I was glad I was able to attend. The DP over 50 club membership is available to all seniors who are parishioners of Divine Providence and Divine Infant. Guests are also welcome to attend. Their next event, the Christmas Luncheon, is being held on December 11 at the Park Place Banquets in Countryside. I’m not sure there will be any seats available, at the time of this printing, but if you are a senior and would like to be part of this great established organization, please contact Ms. Marilyn Bertz at 708-2365757 for more information.

GOVENOR QUINN VISITS WESTCHESTER

On Monday, November 12th, Westchester had a surprise visit from The 5 street reconstruction projects Governor Quinn. The Governor came for this year should have been to Westchester to give a $10,000 completed by the time you read this down payment and closing cost sentence. I have heard many positive assistance to Eric and Shannon Serda comments about the manner in which toward their purchase of a home in the work was performed. Triggi the 3000 block of Halifax. The award Construction Company,with oversight was the result of the WELCOME by Chris Faust from Christopher B. HOME HEROS program sponsored Burke Engineering made the project by the State of Illinois and The Illinois as seamless as possible. Housing Development Authority. The program is designed to assist qualified LEAF REMOVAL veterans , active military personnel Public Works crews again did a and National Guard personnel. Eric great job removing the leaves from and Shannon were married this our streets before they got a chance September and are one of the most to clog up our storm sewers. Crews recent beneficiaries of this program. removed over 20-40 yard and 10-30 Five million dollars has been set aside yard dumpsters full of leaves. I hope to help 500 veterans and active duty the 5 leaf bags made possible by our military personnel who qualify. refuse contractor Waste Management Thanks to Westchester residents also helped this season. Bob and Mary Bakas, real estate employees of Keller Williams Real THANKSGIVING LUNCHEON Estate, and representatives of Wintrust I attended the Divine Providence Mortgage and IHDA who offered Over 50 Club Thanksgiving Luncheon assistance and got the word out that held in the Mayfair Room. The event this benefit is available. The Serda’s was well attended with over 100 invited Governor Quinn and those members and guests attending. Board in attendance to tour their home. President Betty Noonan and her WELCOME TO WESTCHESTER, ERIC leadership staff of Corrine Popelka, AND SHANNON! Eric, your friends Dee Lisy and Ruth Haas certainly and neighbors here in Westchester have a well oiled machine. The food thank you for your service. was excellent and the conversation For more information please call between the seniors was just 1-312-836-5200 or www.ihda.org

STREET PAVING PROJECTS

Broadview Mayor Jones, Representative Yarbrough, and President Pulia at the BWJWA Ground breaking ceremony.

BROADVIEW WESTCHESTER WATER AGENCY GROUND BREAKING

two years, Sean O’Dell, the project engineer from Baxter Woodman, has been finalizing all the requirements On Wednesday, November 14th, a needed from the IEPA. As you can ground breaking ceremony was held imagine, there are many hoops to to begin the construction of a brand jump through when dealing with new water pumping station. The water transmission, distribution, and current station constructed in the late quality. In addition to the elected 1930’s has been serving the Village of officials, construction personnel Westchester, the Village of Broadview, from Maxim Construction, Hancock Loyola Hospital, Hines Veterans Engineering, and TRIA Architecture Administration Hospital, and Madden were on hand. Both Mayor Jones Mental Health Center for many a year. and I are Directors of the BWJWA. The new state of the art building has Members include Matthew Ames been in the planning stage for several and David Upshaw from Broadview, years. The $4.5 million IEPA loan Village Manager Janet Matthys and funded from the State Revolving Fund former Westchester Village Trustee Loan Program was obtained with the Neil Boyle from Westchester. Also on help of our State Senator Kimberly hand was former Westchester Village Lightford and State Representative Trustee Patrick Casey who served Karen Yarbrough. When Broadview as a member while he was a Village Mayor Sherman Jones and I finalized Trustee. Former Westchester President the “functional no frills” design I hand Paul Gattuso and retired Westchester carried the request and application Water Agency Superintendent Brian to Springfield and met with Mrs. Clausen were not able to attend but Lightford and Mrs. Yarbrough. I certainly need to be recognized for stopped at the IEPA office with a their contribution to the project. copy as well. Our project was placed in line with applications from all over 3/50 PROGRAM: KEEP THE CHEER HERE 3- What three independently owned the state. We were down in the 300 number range. After a subsequent businesses would you miss if they meeting Mayor Jones and I had with disappeared? Stop in. Say hello. Pick our elected officials, we miraculously See PRESIDENT, page 16 moved into the top 10%. For the past

Park District 10

DECEMBER 2012

St. JoSeph DECEMBER 2012

St. JoSeph 12

DECEMBER 2012

Library DECEMBER 2012

Library 14

DECEMBER 2012

Students and faculty offer comfort to victims of Sandy On Friday, November 2, 2012, Nazareth Academy sent Nazareth “prayer blankets” to the Sisters of St. Joseph in Brentwood, New York. The Brentwood location is very close to Breezy Point, which has suffered intense damage from Hurricane Sandy. Members of each class in addition to the faculty and staff signed the blankets as a visible symbol of our thoughts and prayers. The staff and faculty also plan to send a monetary donation to Hurricane Sandy victims. “We wanted to give our community a way of beginning the process of

reaching out to those in trouble. In addition to some comfort, we hope those receiving the blankets will feel our solidarity with them in prayer and support,” said Mrs. Rosemary Caragher,Campus Minister at Nazareth Academy. Nazareth Academy, a Catholic, coeducational, college preparatory high school serving families from 55 communities and over 100 grade schools in Chicago and the western suburbs, established in 1900 and sponsored by the Congregation of St. Joseph, values scholarship, service, Holly Haberkorn ’13 of Westchester and Rachel Dimaranan ’13 of Brookfield hold prayer blankets for Hurricane Sandy victims. spirit, and unity.

Nazareth Academy announces first quarter Honor Roll

Nazareth Academy is proud to announce its First Quarter Honor Roll for the 2012-2013 school year. The “A” Honor Roll indicates a grade point average of 3.5-4.0 on a 4 point scale. The “B” Honor Roll indicates a grade point average of 3.0-3.49 on a 4 point scale. For the First Quarter, 576 students from 46 different communities have been recognized for this remarkable academic achievement. Congratulations go out to the following Westchester residents; Kyle Bermudez B Honor Roll Gabriella Aguilera A Honor Roll Jake Bartels A Honor Roll Danielle Bartodziej A Honor Roll Brittany Behrendt A Honor Roll Bryan Behrendt A Honor Roll Kathleen Benz A Honor Roll Olha Bosnova A Honor Roll Sean Brogan A Honor Roll Austin Brown A Honor Roll Colin Carlson A Honor Roll

PRESIDENT

Nicholas Caruso Colleen Cavanaugh Francesca Citro Sam Citro Matthew Clark Jack Cross Faye Domokos Melissa Drinnon William Ernst Andrew Gomez Holly Haberkorn Emina Hadzic Rachel Hosek Jessika Jackson Traci Jennings Brandon Kane Kyle Kane Christopher Kulnig Alex Kwok Devinne Love Julian Love Emilia Martinez Samuel Martyn Nicole Moore Michael Noesen Thomas Noesen, III

A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll A Honor Roll

Jacqueline Nowicki Julia Nowicki Ethan O’Hare Steven Patchak Nicolette Pedersen Dominic Pedota Kyle Piotrowski Lelandra Randle Sarah Reynolds Angela Rini Carl Robst Mitchell Rubino Chloe Seegers Elena Sofia Renee Sone Cara Stewart Stephen Suchy Charles Swarts Marcel Tworek Robert Tworek Courtney Urzen Taylor Van Daff Faith Villapiano Aidan Walton Benjamin Wojtynek Nathanial Wojtynek

meeting discussion encompassed the aesthetics of the Village. During BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY FOR SMALL the discussion, a Holiday Decoration Continued from page 9 AND MINORITY BUSINESS Contest was mentioned. Park District We are currently making plans Executive Director Gary Kasanders up something that brings a smile. to host an informational seminar offered 4 free pool memberships to be Your purchases are what keep those made possible through the office awarded to the best decorated homes businesses around. of Comptroller Judy Barr Topinka. in Westchester. 50- If half the employed population Providing Opportunities for Work There will be 1 membership given spent $50.00 each month in locally through Education and Resources to homes in four sections of town, owned independent businesses, it (POWER) teaches business owners approximately the North, South, East would generate more than $42.6 about the State of Illinois certification and West. All properties must be in billion in revenue. and procurement process. Westchester’s Village Boundary. Imagine the positive impact if ¾ of It is also designed to provide Submittals should be provided to the employed population did that. counseling and guidance from leading the Westchester Park District and Park 68- For every $100 spent locally executives, and ensures members District staff will select the winning owned independent stores, $68 are alerted when state contract homes. returns to the community through opportunities become available. More taxes, payroll, and other expenditures. information will be available in the SEASONS GREETINGS On behalf of the entire Village of If you spend that in a national chain, January 2013 Newsletter. Westchester Family, I would like to only $43 stays here. Spend it online HOLIDAY DECORATION CONTEST end this newsletter with wishing you and nothing comes home. At a recent Economic Summit and your family joy and happiness this 1- The number of people it takes to start the trend...YOU!

Jasmine Alipio Matthew Berger Zachary Blair Joseph Citro Chloe Delaney Lizzette Enorme Blake Gordon Tyler Graf Maeve Grimes Carl Jackson Demitri Kladis Alyssa Malon Ryan Marquez Thomas Martyn Emma McGee Patrick McGee Gianna Pascua Alec Podock David Prignano Patrick Quinn Francesco Ricchio James Rubino Brenna Scheuing Zachary Smola Matthew Wilson Jasper Zornoza

B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll B Honor Roll

festive Holiday Season. For far too many, 2012 was fraught with many challenges and difficulties. I have met many people who are struggling to get by. I have met parents whose children are serving our military overseas, in harms way, who will not be home for Christmas. I have attended far too many funerals for friends and acquaintances that have passed away. Please take some time this holiday season to remember those who are less fortunate than us. Pray for those who have lost someone dear to them, and those brave soldiers keeping us safe. Also pray for our police and fire first responders, as well as those who care for us medically and spiritually. Remember to treat everyone with respect and open your heart. You will feel better for it….Sam.

Special Article 16

from the

Desk

of the

President

DECEMBER 2012

Good Neighbor Nominations As many of you know I spend a good amount of time reviewing newsletters from many other municipalities in an effort to share important information with you. I saw a feature in Mayor Jim Dicipio’s LaGrange Park “Rose Clippings” that I thought I would borrow. Jim does not mind,he is a dear friend who actually grew up in Westchester. Most of you remember purchasing delicious fresh vegetables from the Discipio Family Farm on Wolf Road. As a way to highlight the good news in our community, I would like to reserve a spot in the newsletter for you to praise the efforts of local residents, organizations, and businesses. We are looking for those friendly folks, good deeds and special neighborly touches that make living in Westchester special. A nomination form is included in this issue below. Nominations for the January issue need to be received by December 15th by sending them to newsletter@westchester-il. org (Subject Line: Good Neighbor Nomination) or 10300 W. Roosevelt Rd. Westchester, IL 60154 (Attn: Good Neighbor Nomination). We look forward to sharing the good news of Westchester.

CALENDAR

Good Neighbor Nomination Form Your Name:

Your Address:

Provide the Name and Address of the person/organization/business you are nominating

Why are they a Good Neighbor to you?

also 10:30 pm Candlelight Service at Westchester Community Church,UCC, 1840 Westchester Blvd., Westchester, Continued from page 8 IL 60154, 708/865-1282. Monday, December 24 : Tuesday, pm & 7:00 pm at Divine Infant Jesus December 25: Library closed for School, 1640 Newcastle Avenue. For Christmas holiday. more information, contact the school Monday, December 24 through office at 865-0122. Friday, January 4:– Winter Break / Thursday, December 20: Teetering No School for Westchester Public Tots 9:30-10:30AM Divine Providence Schools. School, 2500 Mayfair Avenue, Monday, December 24 through Westchester, IL 60154 (708)562-2258, Friday, January 4: Christmas Break, www.divineprovidenceschool.org: No School Divine Providence School, 2500 Mayfair Avenue, Westchester, Friday, December 21: 7:00 PM, Taize IL 60154 (708)562-2258, www. Prayer, Divine Providence Church, divineprovidenceschool.org: 2600 Mayfair Monday, December 24: 3:45 PM Saturday,December 22:3:30-4:30 PM, (Family Mass), 5:30 PM and 10:30 Sacrament of Reconciliation, Divine PM, Christmas Eve Masses, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

5-8, Registration required to attend, including a signed permission slip. Monday, January 7: Classes Resume Contact Youth Dept at (708) 562- Divine Providence School, 2500 3573. Mayfair Avenue, Westchester, IL 60154 (708)562-2258, www. Monday, December 31: 5:00 PM, New divineprovidenceschool.org: Year’s Eve Mass, Divine Providence Church 2600 Mayfair Monday, January 7: MyMediaMall Drop-In Session. 4:00 – 7:00 PM at Monday, December 31: Tuesday, Library. Stop by Adult Dept with your January 1: Library closed for New questions about eBooks, eReaders & Year’s holiday. MyMediaMall. Tuesday, January 1: 8:30 and 10:30 AM, New Year’s Day Masses, Divine Monday, January 7: Classes Resume, Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair Westchester Public Schools Monday, January 7: School resumes Friday, January 4: 8:00 AM-7:00 PM, at Divine Infant Jesus School, Eucharistic Day of Adoration, Divine 1640 Newcastle Avenue. For more Providence Ministry Center Chapel, information, contact the school office 2540 Mayfair, at 865-0122. Tuesday, January 8: Divine Infant Friday, January 4: 4:30 - 7:30 pm - Jesus School Advisory Board Fish and Chicken Fry at Westchester Meeting at 7:00 pm at the Rectory, Saturday, December 22: 3:00 pm Tuesday, December 25: 8:30 and Community Church, UCC, 1840 1601 Newcastle Avenue. For more - Holiday Concert performed by 10:30 AM, Christmas Day Masses, Westchester Blvd., Westchester, IL information, contact the school office Meghan Kasanders - refreshments to Divine Providence Church, 2600 60154, 708/865-1282. at 865-0122. follow at Westchester Community Mayfair Sunday, January 6: Family Game Day. Wednesday, January 9: All School Church, UCC, 1840 Westchester Blvd., 1:30 – 2:30 PM at Library. Play family mass at 8:00 am at Divine Infant Jesus Westchester, IL 60154, 708/865-1282. Friday, December 28: “Late Over board games, including Monopoly, Church, 1600 Newcastle Avenue. Monday, December 24: 7:00 pm at the Library” 6:00 – 8:00 PM. After Candyland, Connect4 and many more Come join us. For more information, Christmas Eve Worship Service, and hours program for children in grades – program for all ages in Youth Dept. contact the school office at 865-0122.

DECEMBER 2012

News from your Citizen’s Advisory Board The CAB is continuing to assist the Food Pantry in collecting food and distributing it within the community this holiday season if one chooses to donate they can drop their goods off at the Village Hall or either one of the Park District buildings; Community Center, or Mayfair Recreational Center. We will also be participating in the Toys for Tots drive this year.There will be a drop box at the Village Hall for anyone who wishes to drop off a toy. The Village will be taking donations for the toy drive if anyone wishes to bring Santa a toy, in conjunction with the Village’s tree lighting ceremony on Friday December 7th at the Fire Station on Roosevelt beginning at 7:00 pm.

“Critics Corner” A Review of WCT’s The Canterville Ghost” So entertaining, I saw it twice! – Sam Pulia, Village President Another great performance by the Westchester Community Theater! Kudos to all the actors and the production team! A “frightfully” good time was had by all who

watched the antics of the Ghost of Canterville. – Janet Matthys, Village Manager The Westchester Community Theatre’s recent production, “The Ghost of Canterville” was SPOOKTACULAR!

Public Works DECEMBER 2012

Branch Pickup

vehicle to remain parked, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Village branch pickup has ended for on odd-numbered sides of the street the year. Branch pickup will resume (south and east sides of streets) on April 2013. Tuesdays and Thursdays, and on evennumbered sides of the street (north Emerald Ash Borer and west sides of the streets) on Mondays,Wednesdays and Fridays. Removal/Replacement Odd sides of the street are defined as Over 800 trees have been identified the south side of east and west streets, for removal due to EAB, which will and the east side of the north and take place over a 4 year span. south streets. Even sides of the street If it is determined that a tree in front are defined as the north side of east of your residence will be removed, and west streets and the west side of the Village will determine the location north and south streets. and species of the replacement tree.

Snow Removal Snow Season has arrived. Village crews work long and hard to keep our streets clear and safe during the winter months. Please assist us by observing the following : Place garbage cans and bins behind the curb line-not in the street Observe “ NO PARKING”and“SNOW ROUTE” signs Do not throw or blow snow back into the cleared streets The following parking restrictions WILL be enforced: After a two-inch snowfall and except as otherwise posted, it is unlawful to park any vehicle, or to permit any

Cold Weather Reminders

The cold weather has arrived so please remember to turn off your outside water spigots in the house to prevent pipes from cracking or freezing during the winter months. If you are leaving town for warmer weather, please inform the Public Works Department so crews can shut off the water at the buffalo box while you are away.

Adopt a Hydrant Adopt a fire hydrant this winter season! Help keep the hydrant clear of snow so that the Fire Department can easily identify and access the hydrant in case

Please observe the parking rules during snow removal.

of an emergency and so that snow plows can easily see the hydrants.

Please Remember As always,Village residents are asked to call Public Works at 708/345-0041

or 708/345-0060 (the Police nonemergency number) if you see an unusual amount of water in the street or parkways. This could be a main break or water leak that requires our immediate attention.

PLEASE RECYCLE ME! 20

DECEMBER 2012