Village of
Westchester September 2012 Newsletter
From the Desk of The President POLICE DEPARTMENT
2
CALENDAR
8
LIBRARY
10
PARK DISTRICT
14 The National Night Out march attracted over 130 citizens and was led by President Pulia, Trustee Gattuso, and Commissioner Casey.
SCHOOL DISTRICT
17
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
20
PUBLIC WORKS
27
SAY GOODBYE TO SUMMER It seems to me that this summer has just flown by. As fast as the August Newsletter was delivered we were already receiving reminders of the September issue deadlines. Public Works Director Dave Stoiser has been hard at work completing the many projects on the white board before the cold wind comes in and snow soon follows. His staff has been seen doing many labor intensive tasks which in the past were contracted out resulting in a greater cost to the Village. Some of the cost saving projects include replacing driveway aprons, sidewalks, and street based by our own Public Works staff members Ubaldo Rodriguez,(U-Bee) along with Mike Otters, and George Minda. These guys have honed their skills in concrete work, thus saving the Village thousands of dollars in construction cost. Additionally, our in-house paving was completed in early August with the repair of several street sections on south
Downing Avenue. Thanks go to Steve Crowley, Ted Zimmerman and newcomer Vince Monoco. Unfortunately, we suffered twelve water main breaks throughout the summer that caused water service interruptions. However, the newly purchased excavator which is operated by John Fecarotta Jr, and Jimmy Suero, ensured the main repairs were done quickly and efficiently by Vince Smith, Bryan Grippo, and Wally Wiza. In between street, water, and sewer repairs, thunderstorm damage to trees caused branch pick-up to extend the entire month. Dave Dillner, Rich Heidank, and newcomer Scott Russell, along with our summer help chipped hundreds of branches and brush piles. Eric Détente, our resident striper, worked diligently between rain storms and tree removals to paint as many curbs and crosswalks as possible. Eric also was responsible for painting the “SLOW SCHOOL”
See PRESIDENT, page 4
Police Department 2
SEPTEMBER 2012
Profile
Westchester celebrates “National Night Out” On August 7, the Village of Westchester held its first National Night Out celebration where residents, business owners, Police, Fire, Park District, and the Village came together to form a partnership for a safer community. The evening began at Gladstone Park with a foot parade march down Westchester Boulevard to the Westchester Community Park.
Residents were treated to an hour of free swim in the Community Pool while a local band played nearby. Inside the park, local businesses, fire and police distributed valuable information. As the sun set over the park, residents viewed a movie classic on the big screen while munching on fresh popped popcorn. NATIONAL NIGHT OUT is designed to: Heighten crime and drug
prevention awareness. Generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs; Strengthen neighborhood spirit and policecommunity partnerships; and Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. For more information, visit www. nationalnightout.org “Partners in Prevention”
School Safety Driving Tips Name: Phillip Grollo Rank: Patrol Officer Years as Police Officer: 17 Was there a moment when you realized this is the job for me: No, not really. It was just something I always wanted to do. Describe a good day at work: Having a safe shift so everyone returns home to their family. What is the best part about your job? Knowing that every day is never routine and each day is different from the next. What is one downside to your job? Rotating shifts, working holidays and weekends keeps you from doing things with your family. What advice would you give to someone who wants to follow your career path. Test everywhere you can and don’t give up. What would occur on your perfect day off? Due to the hours we work and the schedule we keep, just being off and with the family would be a perfect day off.
Now that school is back in session, the Westchester Police Department wants to remind everyone of some important safety issues and laws when driving in and around school zones. • Slow down! The speed limit in school zones is 20 MPH!
• NEVER drive around a stopped school bus when the stop arm is extended and the lights are flashing. • Pay attention to school parking restrictions and drop-off areas. • Curbs that are painted yellow mean “NO Parking or stopping”. • Don’t park at school bus stops, in
the crosswalk or blocking the stop signs. • It is illegal to be talking on cell phones in school zones. • TEXTING while driving is Illegal on all streets! Think smart, drive smart…think child safety!
5. At 1:27pm on July 24th 2012, a Criminal Damage to Property was reported on the 600 block of Newcastle. The resident reported that on July 21st, an unknown person threw a cinder block at their garage, 4. At 12:21pm on July 22nd 2012, a damaging the siding. A security Theft of Bicycle was reported at 1901 camera caught the event and police Mannheim Road, Wally’s Doughnuts. are continuing to investigate the The complainant advised that while event. inside unknown person(s) took a red and silver 18 speed bicycle which 6. At 11:53pm on July 27th 2012, was locked to the bus stop sign. The a Burglary to Motor Vehicle was cut bicycle lock was laying on the reported on the 2900 block of ground next to the sign. Buckingham. The resident reported
that between 6pm and the time of the report, unknown person(s) removed his wallet from the glove compartment of their vehicle. The vehicle was parked on the driveway and there were no signs of forced entry.
Police Blotter 1. At 9:48am on July 16th 2012, a Theft Report was taken at 3020 Wolf Road, Dominicks Finer Foods. A citizen reported that two days prior an unknown person removed her purse from their shopping cart while loading items into their vehicle. 2. At 10:16am on July 17th 2012, a Burglary from Motor Vehicle was reported on the 10400 block of Waterford. The resident reported that sometime during the previous night unknown person(s) punched in the rear door lock to their vehicle, which was parked in the rear of the residence, and removed a drill case from the vehicle. 3. At 11:14am on July 21st 2012, a Burglary from Motor Vehicle was reported on the 2200 block of Sunnyside. The resident reported that some time during the previous night unknown person(s) entered their vehicle parked in the driveway. No forced entry was observed to the vehicle which the resident states was locked.
7. At 6:50pm on August 8th 2012, a Theft was reported on the 10600 block of Newbury. The resident reported that sometime between 2pm and 6:30pm unknown person(s) took their Husky generator from the backyard.
Fire Department SEPTEMBER 2012
Fire Department Fireplace and Home Fire Safety More than one-third of Americans use fireplaces, wood stoves and other fuel-fired appliances as primary heat sources in their homes. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the fire risks when heating with wood and solid fuels. The United States Fire Administration (USFA) encourages you to practice the following fire safety steps to keep those home fires safely burning. Remember, fire safety is your personal responsibility ...Fire Stops With You!
Keep Fireplaces and Wood Stoves Clean
Have your chimney or wood stove inspected and cleaned annually by a certified chimney specialist. Clear the area around the hearth of debris, decorations and flammable materials. Leave glass doors open while burning a fire. Leaving the doors open ensures that the fire receives enough air to ensure complete combustion and keeps creosote from building up in the chimney. Close glass doors when the fire is out to keep air from the chimney opening from getting into the room. Most glass fireplace doors have a metal mesh screen which should be closed when the glass doors are open. This mesh screen helps keep embers from getting out of the fireplace area. Always use a metal mesh screen with fireplaces that do not have a glass fireplace door. Install stovepipe thermometers to help monitor flue temperatures. Keep air inlets on wood stoves open, and never restrict air supply to fireplaces. Otherwise you may cause creosote buildup that could lead to a chimney fire. Use fire-resistant materials on walls around wood stoves.
Fire Safety Services and Education The Village of Westchester Fire Department, Fire Prevention Bureau is a crucial component to the safety of our community. The bureau is responsible primarily for the fire and life safety inspections of all commercial properties within the Village, and works in partnership with the Building Department to provide a safe and viable community. The Fire Prevention Bureau reviews all plans submitted to the Village to ensure the highest level of fire protection is provided for our residents and business community. Our inspectors are certified through the Illinois State Fire Marshalls Office to review and recommend improvements to proposed and existing fire protection systems. We also utilize the services of outside consultants to verify quality and continuity with the most current fire codes and ordinances. Education is the key to any successful fire prevention and life safety program. The Westchester Fire Department provides speakers to any organization requesting presentations on fire and life safety topics. We realize that the largest contributing factor to fires today, is the accidental actions of people. The Fire Department uses education as a tool to provide fire safety information to all within the village from school children to adults. Programs we offer the community include the Kids Fire Safety House, Workplace Fire Safety and Evacuation Consulting, Senior Fire Safety and Residential Home Fire Safety Surveys. We also provide the Residential Knox Box program for our aged and disabled residents. These and other programs are tailored to meet the needs of the department, as well as those who request our services. The Village of Westchester has adopted the 2000 International Fire Code. The International Fire Code and the NFPA Life Safety Code provide the highest level of safety requirements for our Village. Part of the fire inspection process, is to ensure that landlords, owners, and occupants of the commercial properties in the village are maintaining a safe environment. The primary goal of the Fire Department is to educate business owners on the reasons that codes are enforced and how effective codes are in keeping properties safe. Our inspection process allows reasonable time for compliance on nuisance issues, but requires immediate action on any issue that is a life safety hazards. The bureau, along with the Code Enforcement officer will cite and potentially fine those businesses and building owners who choose not to comply with the adopted codes and ordinances of the Village. It is a last resort, but our goal is the safety of all who live in and work with-in the Village. The Fire Prevention Bureau encourages residents and businesses in the village to take advantage of our services, and our doors are always open to answer your questions about fire safety. Please feel free to contact Captain Jeff LeBeda, or any Fire Inspector at 708-345-0433 for more information.
Safely Burn Fuels
Never use flammable liquids to start a fire. Use only seasoned hardwood. Soft, moist wood accelerates creosote buildup. Build small fires that burn completely and produce less smoke. Never burn cardboard boxes, trash or debris in your fireplace or wood stove. When building a fire, place logs at the rear of the fireplace on an adequate supporting grate. Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended. Extinguish the fire before going to bed or leaving the house. Soak hot ashes in water and place them in a metal container outside your home.
Protect the Outside of Your Home
Stack firewood outdoors at least 30 feet away from your home. Keep the roof clear of leaves, pine needles and other debris. Cover the chimney with a mesh screen spark arrester. Remove branches hanging above the chimney, flues or vents.
Protect the Inside of Your Home
Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and inside and outside of sleeping areas. Test them monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. Consider installing the new long life smoke alarms. Provide proper venting systems for all heating equipment. Extend all vent pipes at least three feet above the roof.
Fire Department Open House Saturday October 7, 2012 12:00 pm. – 3:00 pm The Westchester Fire Department invites you to our Open House. Please join us, to celebrate our community’s efforts to always “HAVE 2 WAYS OUT”. Come meet the Firefighters and see the tools and equipment we use to keep Westchester safe!
There will be plenty of activities for adults and children to participate in. Please join us and play a part in making Westchester a safe place to live!
Westchester Remembers 9/11 President Sam Pulia extends an invitation to residents, business and property owners, to attend a service in memory of the events of September 11, 2001. The service will be held Tuesday, September 11, 2012 Contact Village Hall for location, 708-345-0020. Please join our elected officials, members of the Fire and Police department and other community leaders as we honor those who lost their lives, as well as those who continue to provide for the freedom we enjoy.
3
4
SEPTEMBER 2012
PRESIDENT
communities.
Continued from page 1
REMEMBERING SEPTEMBER 11, 2001
zones on the roads surrounding our schools. If you spot Public Works staff working in your area, take a minute to come on out and tell them what a great job they are doing. They are always ready at the drop of a hat to get out there and take care of Westchester.
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT National Night Out was held on Tuesday, August 7, 2012 and was another successful Village event. Chief April Padalik, her staff, and the collaborating bodies including; The Westchester Park District, Faith Lutheran Church, The Westchester Lions Club, as well as all of our citizens who participated are to be congratulated and thanked for being present. I would like to give a special thanks to the young Karate demonstrators Cheon Tiger Martial Arts who did another spectacular performance for the community members in attendance. We would like to thank the sponsors of our First National Night Out, Storino, Ramello and Durkin Attorneys at Law, and Continental Barbers and Jeannie’s Hair Salon Inc. Without their generous contributions, we would not have been able to put on such a successful event for the community.
BACK TO SCHOOL Drivers are reminded to drive carefully and cautiously on and around all of our schools. The Speed Limit in school zones is 20 miles per hour. The USE OF CELL PHONES IN A SCHOOL ZONE IS PROHIBITED, AS WELL AS TEXTING WHILE DRIVING, PERIOD. Westchester Police will be enforcing these traffic laws, in addition to seat belt and car seat safety mandates. Crossing guards will be assisting at several schools. The guards are there to protect our children making sure they arrive safely to school. Please follow their directions and obey all of the traffic rules of the road. A traffic ticket can cost an upward of $120.00. The Back to School advertisements in the August newspapers was a friendly reminder to all that time stands still for no-one. In addition to the normal purchase of school supplies and school clothes, parents need to contribute to their children’s
September 11, 2001 is a date that we all remember all too well, but wished never would have happened. Nearly 2,700 people including; 343 NY Fire Fighters, 37 Port Authority Police Officers, 23 NY Police Officers, and 2,300 innocent civilians were killed in what has become the largest attack on American soil. Unfortunately for me and the Stovicek family, we lost a family member. My cousin FDNY Firefighter Thomas A. Casoria # 6259 died that morning in the collapse of World Trade Tower 1. Retired Sergeant Steve Stovicek lost a brother in-law who was a passenger on Flight 11. Ever since that fateful day our way of life has become more complicated. Security everywhere has been tightened, and we are constantly on alert. It is a dirty shame that we have CTMA performs during the National Night Out 2012 event. to live like this but the reality is that we do. It is hard to believe that it school experience by getting school notices. has been 11 years since the attack involved in their child’s education. Parents can no longer afford to let The complete text with additional occurred. I know all of us know exactly the teachers do all the work. Your tips for dealing with the First Week, children need your guidance, your Overcoming Anxiety, Extracurricular where we were and what we were support, and your help along the way. Activities, and Problems When They doing that Tuesday morning. Former Getting a new school year off to a Arise, can be found at NASP’s web Police Chief Robert Smith and I were good start can influence your child’s site www.nasponline.org and www. on our way to a management class in Streamwood. We were getting off attitude,confidence and performance parentinformationcenter.org. the I-290 Expressway and entering both socially and academically. the Elgin-O’Hare Expressway. Chief National Association of Schools HANDICAPPED PARKING FINES Smith always listened to WGN Radio. Psychologists Ted Feinberg and INCREASED Stricter fines and penalties are in The announcer interrupted the Katherine Cowan offer these tips store for drivers who illegally use news report stating that a plane just before school starts: • Make sure your child is in good handicapped parking plates and hit one of the World Trade Towers. decals. A new state law includes At first I thought he said a flame was physical and mental health. • Review all the material sent by a provision for a $1,000 fine for coming out of the tower and for a doctors who help someone who second I thought one of the floors the school as soon as it arrives. • Make a note of important dates, does not need one get a disabled caught fire. Almost simultaneously, plate or placard. Secretary of State the announcer said a plane hit the especially back to school nights. • Make copies of your child’s health Jesse White is a strong proponent of tower and there was a fire on that the new law. floor. and emergency information. We arrived at the Streamwood • Try to get supplies as early as Police Department for a class with possible and fill the backpacks a 20 other Police Chiefs. The class was week or two before school starts. taught by Dan Gilbert, an attorney • Plan to re-establish the bedtime HONORING SERVICEMEN & WOMEN On July 27th, I had the honor who represented the victims of the and meet time routines (especially breakfast) at least a week before of attending an event “Honoring 1993 bombing of the World Trade the Men and Women that Served Tower. We all sat in disbelief as we school starts. • Encourage your child to play quiet Our Country, and Today Serve Our saw the 2nd plane strike World Trade games, do puzzles, color, or read as Communities”, hosted by our Cook Tower 2 at 9:03 Am EST. I recall early morning activities instead of County Commissioner Jeffrey R. asking Mr. Gilbert to cancel the class Tobolski at the McCook Athletic as we all wanted to be back to our watching television. • If your child is young or in a Exposition Center. Commissioner respective communities in the event new school, visit the school with Tobolski treated all the veterans in any other situations arose. It was only later that evening that I your child. Meeting the teacher, and attendance to a luncheon in their locating their classroom and locker honor and thanked them for their spoke to my cousin Roseanne in New service to our country. A number York asking if her husband, who had will help ease pre-school anxieties. • Buy only the essentials. Check of Village and State Officials were in an office in the towers, was ok. He with the school to confirm the dress attendance including Congressman was fine although he was trapped Daniel Lipinski who addressed in the subway system as a result of code guidelines. • Designate and clear a place to do those in attendance. Thank you the collapse. However, she told me Commissioner Tobolski for inviting the news that our cousin, firefighter homework. • Designate a spot for your children me to the event, and thank you to all Tommy Casoria, was missing. For to place their school belongings men and women who have served See PRESIDENT, page 5 as well as a place to put important our country and now serve our
SEPTEMBER 2012
5
PRESIDENT Continued from page 4
the next 10 days I was hemming and hawing on whether to go to New York and assist in the aftermath. On 9/22/01, I left my house at 5am and drove straight through to New York. I arrived at the Javitis Command Center at about 8:30 pm EST. Within an hour a young NYPD Sergeant took me down to Ground Zero for a look. I can honestly say that I was not prepared to see the mass destruction. American soil from Chambers Street to the Ground Zero was wrapped in chain like fencing with armed soldiers keeping any unauthorized people from entering. I will never forget walking around the site of crumpled buildings; 20 stories high, the smoke, the visible flames, and the amount of activity happening 24 hours a day. For the next week, I volunteered for any assignment. Most of my duties were providing security at several locations around the city, picking up supplies, directing traffic, and helping with the bucket brigade. I returned to New York 5 times in the next year, including attending the funeral of my cousin, firefighter Tom Casoria on August 9, 2012, and the 9-1-1 Memorial at Ground Zero each year thereafter. I have promised myself that I would “NEVER FORGET� the event and will continue to support, defend, and volunteer my services making my country, my state, my county, and especially my village, Westchester, the best it can be!
Participants gathered in the park following the march for refreshments.
the matter was brought before the Cook County Board and passed overwhelmingly. Within a few days construction on the site began, and although the vision is not complete, it is moving along nicely. Several organizations and residents have donated monies to make this vision a reality. We have a long way to MEMORIAL FOUNTAIN DEDICATION go with this work in progress but we After being elected in 2009 I had an will be having a dedication ceremony idea of creating a lasting memorial on Saturday, September 8th at the dedicated to those public servants Mannheim & Cermak location. The who have dedicated their lives to Memorial Fountain will be dedicated service in our community. to our Police Department, Fire For the past few years I have been Department, Military Servicepersons, working on obtaining permission and 9/11 victims. from the Cook County Forest I would like to thank everyone Preserve to construct a Memorial who has helped turn this vision into Fountain at Cermak Road and a reality, especially the entire Village Mannheim Road. For those who do Board of Trustees, Paul Gattuso, Wally not know the section it runs from Novak, Frank Perry, Brian Sloan, Westchester Blvd to Mannheim, Nick Steker, and Thomas Yurkovich, Cermak Road up to Crestwood Lane. Village Clerk Cathy Booth, Village This land is Cook County Forest Manager Janet Matthys, and Former Preserve property. Trustees Pat Casey and Neil Boyle for The Westchester Garden Club for supporting the idea. many years has been maintaining We invite all residents to attend the the Westchester Gardens at the dedication ceremony on Saturday, site, however there has been no September 8th at 1:00 PM. As more agreement between Westchester monies become available we will and Cook County to do so. I be adding additional lighting and sought the assistance of our seating so that it will also become a Cook County Commissioners Jeff gathering spot for the community. If Tobolski and Liz Gorman to make you would like to make a donation to this vision possible. On July 24th, the Memorial Fountain please fill out
the special event donation form in this issue of the newsletter and bring it to Village Hall.
CELLPHONES FOR SOLDIERS I recently read an article in the SunTimes from Dear Abby that I thought was important enough to share with our readers. There is a program for recycling old cell phones into money phone cards that are donated to soldiers all over the world. 80% of calls home by active duty soldiers are made by using phone cards. Founded in 2004, Cell Phones for Soldiers, is a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization whose mission is to provide free communication tools for military serving overseas. Nearly 12,000 calling cards are mailed each week. Anyone interested in learning more should visit www. cellphonesforsoldiers.com Thank you Dr. Morgan and Dear Abby and the Sun-Times for the information.
ELECTRIC AGGREGATION By now all Westchester residential customers receiving electric power from ComEd should have received a letter in the mail from FIRST ENERGY regarding the OPT OUT provision which will allow you to continue to
receive electricity supply services from ComEd. Last October, I personally changed from ComEd to a competitor of ComEd. Because I was not receiving my electricity from ComEd I did not receive the letter from FIRST ENERGY for me to OPT OUT. I had to call FIRST ENERGY to OPT IN to their company so I could avail myself to the low 4.86 cents per kilowatt hour rate, which incidentally, was lower than the rate I had switched to back in October of 2011. For those residents who may have switched to a company other than ComEd before the Village of Westchester Electric Municipal Aggregation Referendum last March 2012 please call FIRST ENERGY at 1-866-636-3749 to reduce the electric supply service portion of your bill. The only change on your bill will be the name FIRST ENERGY next to the electricity supply services. This change will take between 30-60 days to take effect. Please Note: regardless of what you decide to do, change to FIRST ENERGY or stay with ComEd, you will still receive your bill from ComEd and you will still have to call ComEd if there is problem with your line or to report a power outage.
See PRESIDENT, page 12
6
SEPTEMBER 2012
New, Limited-Time Rebate Available for Home Energy Upgrades In Westchester An alliance of local organizations, utility companies, non-profit groups and government agencies is helping area homeowners increase the comfort of their homes this fall. The alliance, Energy Impact Illinois, recently introduced a special limited-time instant rebate for Chicago-area homeowners of up to $1,750 to make energy efficiency improvements to their homes before winter hits. Funding for Energy Impact Illinois comes from the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act through the United States Department of Energy and locally from Nicor and Commonweath Edison. With our unusually hot weather this summer, it may be hard to remember back to last winter when you noticed an especially drafty room or the window bay in your breakfast nook that just always seemed a bit colder. For sure, you know if rooms in your house were hotter than normal
these last few months. These issues, and more, can be solved by making energy efficiency improvements like sealing up air leaks and installing proper insulation, which the rebate is designed for. Westchester homeowners (and most of the rest of the Chicago area) are now eligible for the up to $1,750 instant rebate to take energy efficiency steps in their own homes. To receive the rebate, homeowners call Energy Impact Illinois at 855-9-IMPACT. Energy Impact Illinois then helps determine eligible rebates, and links homeowners to certified contractors who can assess and estimate the right mix of air sealing and insulation projects that will achieve savings. Though the rebate can help homeowners save, on average, 70 percent on the typical cost of the actual work, Energy Impact Illinois can also link homeowners with
attractive loan options with zero percent interest for the first year to make up any difference. More than half of total energy costs come from heating and cooling a home and almost all homes let too much air escape or penetrate. Most homes also have incorrectly installed or insufficient amounts of attic insulation. Air sealing and insulating a home are some easy, right-now steps homeowners can take to reduce energy bills and create a more comfortable home for winter. For more information, Westchester homeowners can call 855-9-IMPACT. Homeowners can also visit the website EnergyImpactIllinois.org for tools and links to contractor resources to help take the first steps to lowering energy bills and increasing comfort of your home.
Saturday, September 8, 2012 @ 1:00 PM on the corner of Cermak & Mannheim Rd. Join us for a ceremony dedicating the Memorial Fountain to the men and women serving our country and preserving our freedom including our servicemen and first responders. Refreshments will be served following the ceremony. *Parking will be available in the Municipal Lot.
Courage
Honor
Service
SEPTEMBER 2012
9825 Roosevelt Rd., Westchester, IL 60154
(708)369-1026 1026
Marianne’s Attic is a family owned and operated resale boutique. We have all kinds of treasures waiting to be discovered by you. Visit our store for decorating or gift ideas.
Furniture • Antiques • Games • Books • Arts & Crafts • TV’s / Video Players VHS & DVD/ Stereo’s • CDs / DVDs / VHS Tapes • Sports & Fitness Equipment • Statues / Knick Knacks / Lamps / Candles • Paintings • Lithographs • Kitchen Appliances • China Sets • Cook / Bake ware • Dining Table Sets • Bedroom sets • Computer / Office desks • Home Appliances • Unique One of a Kind Items • Holiday Decorations • Much Much More all at great prices!
Furniture Services Available
Repair / Refinishing / Repurposing / Delivery Options
Custom Built Projects
(Your size, color, style) Wall Shelves, Shelving Units, Book Shelves, Cabinetry, Children Beds, Play Sets, Toy Boxes, Outdoor Planters, Storage & Garden Sheds, Bird Houses
Coming Second Weekend eekend in September
For Our Custom Built Planters - Mums & Asters Flowers 8” & 5” Pots Assorted Colors
Mon – Thurs by appointment only Call 708.369.1026 Friday 10:30am – 6pm / Sat – Sun 10:30am – 4pm Check Out Our Website At : www.MariannesAttic.com
7
Calendar 8
SEPTEMBER 2012
Professional Women Connected (PWC) meets the 1st and 3rd Fridays at the Hampton Inn 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 September: Library Card Sign-up Month. Reminder for parents and students to register/update library cards for new school year. WPL
Monday, September 3:
Divine Providence School, 2500 Mayfair Avenue, Westchester, IL 60154 (708)562-2258 www.divineprovidenceschool.org
Wednesday, September 12: WMS 8th Grade Washington D.C. Parent Mtg. (7:00 PM)
Thursday, September 13:
Labor Day No School WPS, WIS, WMS
Early Childhood Screening at WPS (appointment only)
Village Hall offices closed in observance of Labor Day.
WIS Curriculum Night (6:30 PM -8:00 PM)
Tuesday, September 4:
Saturday, September 15:
Library normal hours return: Monday-Thursday 9:30-9 PM, Friday 9:30-6 PM, Saturday 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM, and Sunday 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Youth Group Car Wash - 8:30 AM -11:30 AM. cars $5, vans and trucks $8 at Westchester Community Church
Registration begins for Youth Story times at the Library. Contact Youth Dept. at 708-562-3573.
Market Day pick-up 8:30AM - 9:30AM Divine Providence School,2500 Mayfair Avenue,Westchester, IL 60154 (708)562-2258, www.divineprovidenceschool. org
Cub Scout Pack 73 Open House 7:00 PM Westchester Community Church, 1840 Westchester Blvd. Westchester, IL 60154
Wednesday, September 5: Family Film Night, featuring “We Bought a Zoo,” 6:30 PM at Library. Divine Providence over 50 Club -Our next meeting will be held at 1:30 PM at Divine Providence School. We will be having a speaker from the FBI. The topic of discussion will be “Crimes Against the Elderly.” Mark your calendars now for our Christmas Luncheon which will be held on Tuesday, December 11, 2012 at Park Place in Countryside.
Thursday, September 6: WMS Curriculum Night (6:30 PM -8:15 PM)
Friday, September 7: First Friday Adoration, 8:00 AM-7:00 PM, Divine Providence Ministry Center Chapel, 2540 Mayfair Avenue, Westchester IL 60154
Westchester Community Church Spaghetti Dinner – 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM - All you can eat spaghetti, Adults $8 Children 5-10 $4 - fabulous raffle prizes at Westchester Community Church Please Come Join Us for “Pre-National Public Lands Day Work Day” 9:00 AM – Noon. What better way to celebrate National Public Lands Day then to join the Salt Creek Greenway Association in helping to preserve the biodiversity and restore our connection to the land? We’ll be helping to restore 80 acres of beautiful prairie lands at: WOLF ROAD PRAIRIE NATURE PRESERVE Located just 15 miles west of downtown Chicago, this protected prairie is not only a gift to those of us who love experiencing nature, it is a vital component of sustaining the Midwest. You’ll be among fellow nature and prairie enthusiasts clearing buckthorn and collecting seed for re-introduction to restoration areas cleared earlier in the year. Come for an hour or join us for the whole morning but don’t miss being a part of this important restoration effort. What to Bring: Bring your friends, family and neighbors along with sturdy work gloves. Be prepared to get a little dirty. For more information about Pump Up the Prairie, Salt Creek Greenway Association and Wolf Road Prairie Nature Preserve please call us at 708-8658736 or visit our web site at www.saltcreekgreenwayassociation.org This magnificent site is co-owned and managed by:The Forest Preserve District of Cook County and The Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The Illinois Nature Preserves Commission oversees management and protection of the site.
Back to School Picnic at Mayfair Park 5-9 pm Donkey Baseball at 7 pm Second Annual Spaghetti Dinner, at Westchester Community Church, 1840 Westchester Blvd. Westchester, IL. Serving from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Saturday, September 8: Door Prizes and Silent Auction. Tickets are $8.00 for adults and $4.00 for children under 7 years old. Call the church office, 708-865-1282, to purchase “Back-to-School Safety” with Officer Verber of the Westchester Police Dept. tickets. For students and their parents. 3:00 PM at Library. Memorial Fountain Dedication at Mannheim and Cermak Road at 1 p.m.
Monday, September 10: WMS 6th Grade Outdoor Education Parent Mtg. (7:00 PM)
Tuesday, September 11: 9/11 Ceremony to be held at the Memorial Fountain on Mannheim and Cermak at 8:30 a.m. Village Bard Meeting at Village Hall, 7 p.m. followed by the Committee of the Whole.
Monday, September 17 & Tuesday, September 18: WMS 6th Grade Outdoor Education
Tuesday, September 18 & Wednesday, September 19: “One-on-One Resume Review” with professional resume writer Laina Krisik. Contact Adult Dept at 708-562-3573 to book a 30-minute appointment at Library. Priority given to Westchester residents.
Tuesday, September 18: WPS Curriculum Night (6:30 PM - 8:00 PM)
Open House for Parents of Divine Providence students 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Calendar SEPTEMBER 2012
Thursday, September 20:
9
participate & no fee to register. Please register or donate at: www.Chicago. org Help Spread the Word!
Multi-Chamber Community and Business Expo (see page 20)
Friday, September 21: Taize Prayer, 7:30 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair Avenue Westchester, IL 60154
Saturday, September 22: Midwest SOARRING Pow Wow at Naper Settlement
Monday, September 24: Flu Shot Clinic at Village Hall in the Community Room from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (see page 21)
Tuesday, September 25: Flu Shot Clinic at Village Hall in the Community Room from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (see page 21) Bilingual PAC Mtg. at WPS (7:00 PM) Village Board Meeting at Village Hall, 7 p.m. followed by the Committee of the Whole.
Wednesday, September 26:
Saturday, September 29: Harvest Moon Dance atWestchester Community Church,1840Westchester Blvd. Westchester, IL. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Live music by Matt Geraldi on the keyboard from 7:00 PM -10:00 PM. Appetizers will be served.Tickets $10.00 if purchased by Sept. 28th. $12.00 at the door. Call the church office, 708-865-1282, to purchase tickets. Save The Prairie Society invites you to a bird walk with Wolf Road Prairie bird monitor Linda Padera. Linda will lead us through the savanna and into the Prairie to observe both resident birds and those passing through. Long pants and sturdy shoes advised. Meet near the middle parking bay off of 31st Street just west of Wolf Rd. at 8 am.This is a free event. For more infor-mation call 708-354-5512 or visit www.savetheprairiesociety.org.
Wednesday, October 3: Parent/Teacher Conferences at WPS, WIS, WMS (5:00pm-8:00pm)
Thursday, October 4: Early Dismissal, Parent/Teacher Conferences (see schedule)
Friday, October 5: Parent/Teacher Conferences at WPS, WIS, WMS (8:00am-11:00am)
Fish and Chicken Fry - 4:30-7:00 pm at Westchester Community Church 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM at the Mayfair Recreation 10835 Wakefield Westchester, IL 60154 - Aging Well of Westchester with a representative from the Village First Friday Adoration, 8:00 AM-7:00 PM, Divine Providence Ministry Center of Westchester will be hosting a presentation and answering questions Chapel, 2540 Mayfair Avenue Westchester, IL 60154 about the New Electrical Aggregation Program through First Energy Corp. Refreshments will be served and entertainment will follow the program. Saturday, October 6: Bring a friend! Team meeting immediately following from 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM Craft Fair, 9:00 AM-3:00 PM, Divine Providence School, 2500 Mayfair Avenue NEW MEMBERS ALWAYS WELCOME. For more information, please call Aging Westchester, IL 60154 Care Connections at 708-354-1323, ext. 242
Thursday, September 27: WMS High School Night (6:30 PM - 8:00 PM) Saturday, September 29: “Friends of the Library Annual Book Sale.” Hours are Thursday, 6:00 – 8:00 PM reserved for members only, Friday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM – Noon and 1:00 – 3:00 PM (Buck-A-Bag special) Contact Library at 708-562-3573.
Sunday, October 7: Pet Blessing, 2:30 PM, Divine Providence Church (Outdoors), 2600 Mayfair Avenue Westchester, IL 60154 “Our Lady of the Angels School Fire” with Jim Gibbons, 2:00 PM at Library. Contact Adult Dept at 708-562-3573. Fire Department Open House
Friday, September 28: Faculty in-service - No School Divine Providence School, 2500 Mayfair Avenue,Westchester, IL 60154 (708)562-2258, www.divineprovidenceschool. org
Monday, October 8: “Columbus Day Drop-In Crafts” all day in Youth Dept at Library. Columbus Day No School WPS
Saturday, September 29: You’re Invited! Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk! This Annual Event Supports the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention! Walk to Save Lives! Walk to Support the Cause! Walk to Raise Awareness! Walk to Honor a Loved One! Check In at 8 am | Event Begins at 9 am At Independence Grove in Libertyville IL Register Today at www.ChicagoWalk. org April Jervis, MBA, Illinois Area Director. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) ajervis@afsp.org | www.ChicagoWalk.org Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S.; please walk with us! Help us raise awareness! There is no minimum fundraising requirement to
Thursday, October 11: WIS Family Education Night
Saturday, October 13: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM **Crafters and Artists Wanted **Save The Prairie Society will be hosting a Harvest Fest. $25 for a 10’ space near the historic Prairie House. For more information, call 708-354-5512.
9
Library 10
SEPTEMBER 2012
Library SEPTEMBER 2012
11
12
SEPTEMBER 2012
PRESIDENT Continued from page 5
Non-Home Rule Sales Tax QUESTION TO APPEAR ON NOV. 6 BALLOT As communicated in our May newsletter, there was a technical oversight in the referendum passed on March 20, 2012 to provide a 1% non-home rule sales tax. The 1% tax has not been implemented and cannot unless the referendum passes in November. The tax may be used for the maintenance of the Village’s public infrastructure system, including municipal streets,roads and storm water drainage improvements or for property tax relief. These revenues will be used, in part, to pay for the debt service on bonds to fund infrastructure improvements including the reconstruction of roads in the Village. It was determined that the authorizing ordinance prepared by our legal counsel and the ballot printed in the March 2012 election included a statutory reference for a Retailers Occupation Tax, but failed to include the related statutory reference to the companion Service Tax. These two components combine to become our “Non-Home Rule Sales Tax”. They must be passed together; one is not enforceable without the other. The differentiation is that the Retailers Occupation Tax is assessed on your regular purchases at the retail location and the Service Tax is assessed on the materials portion of services engaged in (i.e. home improvement contracts, carpet cleaning). It is important to note that the non-home rule sales tax percentage remains at 1%. To correct this technical error, we will have to go back to referendum in November.The following question shall be submitted to the electors of the Village of Westchester as a referendum at the General Election to be held on November 6, 2012:
Residents gathered information from the various organizations reprepresented at NNO 2012.
this day is for you. Many families could not exist without the help of grandparents. Some are actually raising their grandchildren to be well mannered, polite and productive members of our society. Those of you who are still lucky enough to have your grandparents alive please remember them not only this day but each and every day. I can still remember visiting my New York Grandparents, Rose and Salvatore, and making the 4am bread run (bread is life) to the Cammareri Brothers Bakery at Sackett and Henry Streets in Brooklyn Heights each morning and drinking a chocolate KAYO on the way home, one priceless memory. September 13th is a relatively new day of celebration which I was reminded of by one of our staff; it is national Positive Thinking Day. I guess in the scheme of things we should think positive every day and be thankful for all we do have, especially our health. Thinking positively is probably the best possible medicine for our mental well-being. I am sure “Shall the corporate authorities all who know me are saying I should of the Village of Westchester be practice what I am preaching. I will authorized to levy a Municipal make every attempt to do so in the Retailers’ Occupation Tax and SEPTEMBER 2012 HIGHLIGHTS The month of September has future. a Municipal Service Occupation Monday September 22nd welcomes the first Tax, each at a rate of 1%, pursuant several notable dates. to 65 ILCS 5/8-11-1.3 and 1.4, to be September 3rd we celebrate Labor day of autumn. This is one of my used for expenditures on public Day. This National Holiday is more favorite times as the cooler weather infrastructure or property tax than just a day off of work or school. and leaves changing colors add to It is a day to remember and celebrate the mystery of our seasons in the relief, or both?” the American worker and the spirit Midwest. Halloween is not too far It is important to note that neither of accomplishment that comes with off and the pumpkins and corn stalks the non-home rule municipal retailers’ hard work and the completion of along with all the decorated homes really bring out the festive season. occupation tax nor the non-home every job. September 9th we celebrate rule municipal service occupation tax may be imposed on the sale of not only my mother-in-law Jean’s food for human consumption that birthday, but also Grandparents Day. FROM THE BOARD At our August 14th meeting, the is to be consumed off the premises For all of you grandparents out there where it is sold (other than alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and food that has been prepared for immediate consumption) and prescription and non-prescription medicines, drugs, medical appliances and insulin, urine testing materials, syringes and needles used by diabetics. This tax provides revenue from all persons purchasing goods and services within the municipal boundaries of the Village of Westchester. The March 20, 2012 referendum passed with an overwhelming 68% of the vote, which affirmed that the residents know how critical this funding is to provide a revenue source for maintaining our roads and infrastructure. Without passage of a non-home rules sales tax, infrastructure improvements may need to be deferred, or the cost of such repairs would be funded by general fund revenues, including property tax. Retail tax studies have shown that a strong percentage of all retail sales are purchased by out of town shoppers.
Village Board approved a Marketing Agreement with Inland Bank. The partnership between Inland Bank, Inland Home Mortgage and the Village of Westchester will REACH Home Ownership opportunities within the village through FREE educational seminars with a primary focus on promoting homeownership, neighborhood stability and financial literacy. Kandice Jacobs, Branch Manager, represented to the Board that there are a number of initiatives that the public may be unaware of that this program is designed to inform them of. Police Chief April Padalik presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Police Intern Robert Pinter for his dedicated service to the Police Department last semester. James “Pete” Walters and Sherby Miller were appointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals to replace members Wayne Busa and Lonnie Lascola who resigned from the board. I want to personally thank Wayne and Lonnie for their service. Interim Building Commissioner Anthony Saviano reported that several new businesses will be opening later this month. Papa John’s Pizza located at 10235 Roosevelt Road, Access Therapy located at 10233 Roosevelt, ATI Therapy located at 11223 Cermak Road just west of Panera Bread, and Midwest Orthopaedics located at 2450 Wolf Road in the Prairie Medical Building. Finance Director Anne Burkholder presented the 1st Quarter Financial report to the Board for review and approval. Anne reported our fund
See PRESIDENT, page 13
SEPTEMBER 2012
PRESIDENT
Paul’s Pizza and Hot Dogs is located. How many of you know that Paul has been in Westchester for the Continued from page 12 past 30 years. He opened in 1982 at Downing and 31st Street where balances are right on course for the he spent 19 years. The last 11 have 1st quarter. been at the 31st and Wolf Road site. Public Works Director Dave Stoiser In recognition of this mile-stone informed the board about the you are cordially invited to drop by upcoming street paving program Paul’s on Saturday September 22nd proposal from Burke Engineering. from Noon to 5pm. I’m sure he Village Engineer Mark Wrzeszcz of would appreciate the business but Christopher Burke was also on hand more importantly just to say hello and reported that bid for the project and congratulations on 30 years of will be received and opened August business in our community. 23, 2012. Another 30 year mile-stone needs Hope Garrett, project manager to be recognized as well. Dr. Tom presented cost information Sullivan and Dr. Keith Suchy have regarding the replacement of the been partners at their dentistry base station and portable radios for office since 1982. Suchy and Sullivan the public works department due to LTD have been at the corner of the revised narrow-banding of radio High Ridge Parkway and Roosevelt frequencies. Road. The practice was purchased Village Trustee Tom Yurkovich from Dr. Price and I am sure Dr. presented the draft results of the Price would be pleased that he survey taken by the Citizen Advisory sold it to two very professional and Board (CAB) at Westchester Fest. community minded individuals who The Survey asked questions about certainly have made Westchester what you like best as well as least their home. about Westchester. Question 3 asked what services or events would you like Westchester to provide/host. A total of 64 surveys were taken SORROW IN OUR MIDST On a personal note, I have lost a at the fest. Additional surveys are available through the Village website good friend and colleague on August www.westchester-il.org. Results and 18th. Mayor William “Bill” Mueller the Mayor of Lombard passed away surveys are still being tabulated. Chief Padalik reported that the due to complications associated with Police and Fire Commission were West Nile Virus. I met Bill and his lovely wife Eileen administering a police officer while doing a September 11th talk eligibility list. Fire Chief James Adams requested and photo presentation at their permission to purchase a new Citizen Police Academy Class in 2002 Thermal Imaging Camera to detect which they were both members of. hot spots when investigating fires They are some of the nicest people that may have entered behind a you could want to meet, elegant, wall or roof that may go undetected stately, and down to earth, are the best adjectives to describe them during a visual inspection. E9-1-1 Supervisor Greg Hribal both. After being elected as Westchester updated the board on the consolidation study being done Village President, I attended in conjunction with the Village of Lombard board meeting and was Hillside and Broadview. Several introduced by Bill as a visiting important questions about call elected official. (Actually I was volume cost distribution and what getting tips from the master on the potential savings will be have yet how to run village meetings). Over the years we have attended several to be determined. municipal conferences together and I was always in awe of his ability BUSINESS BUZZ to get things done for the Village August welcomed two new of Lombard in the most positive businesses to Westchester with and progressive manner. He loved ribbon cutting ceremonies. Midwest Lombard like no other and will be Orthopaedics, 2450 S. Wolf Road, missed. On August 28th and Goodwill His replacement will find it hard to Industries located in the 31st and fill Bill’s shoes, the shoes he wore for Wolf Rd. Plaza on August 29th. the past 19 years as Mayor. I know Members of the Village Board, and Eileen and Bill’s family will miss all Chamber of Commerce were on those things that made Bill, Bill. I hand to welcome the businesses to want them to know that I will miss Westchester. him also; not only as a mentor, but Unless you have just moved to as someone I was proud to call my Westchester, all of you know where friend.
13
Park District 14
SEPTEMBER 2012
St. Joseph High School SEPTEMBER 2012
Changing Lives Since 1960 Making People Smile Daily!
ALWAYS YOUNG AT HEART
Written by: Tony Quattrochi, Faculty Member Both Service with a Smile and Service for a Smile are located at the Westchester office of Dr. Anthony Lumpkin, Class of 1980. After graduating from St. Joe’s, Dr. Lumpkin attended Loyola University of Chicago for his undergraduate and DDS degrees. Opening his own dental office was put on hold, however, for a few reasons. “I was very excited about opening my own practice,” Dr. Lumpkin related, “but knowing that once I jumped in full force there was no looking back, I chose a preliminary experience.” That experience was to join the United States Army, something Dr. Lumpkin did not think about while at St. Joe’s or at Loyola. “I had just gone through board exams, I had never really been out of the area and I was looking for other ways to broaden my experiences, grow more personally and pick up more solid clinical experiences in dentistry.” That was accomplished when Dr. Lumpkin was stationed in Germany, where he spent most of his military time, which covered 1990 – 1993. “Serving in the Army provided me with some great hands-on experiences. After that I felt ready to be on my own.” Dr. Lumpkin moved back into the area where he shared an office with a colleague while working in the evenings in Chicago. In 1995, Dr. Lumpkin purchased his own practice, a highlight second only to that of getting married the same year. Both his practice and his family share his dedication. “Patient satisfaction is a primary reward for me personally, especially relative to a program I began about two years ago – an emergency care program. It’s a great feeling to be able to provide relief to people, especially if I am their last resort. It’s one of the aspects of the job I enjoy.” Family members too are involved in the business. “My wife is not in the office, per se, but she does a great deal with the marketing and promotion of the business and my son, who has expressed an interest in dentistry, comes around to get a sense of all that is involved in meeting the needs of patients.” Further information on Dr. Lumpkin can be accessed at www.lumpkindds.com We are very proud of this Charger!
Congratulations, Dr. Anthony Lumpkin!
Sr. Marilyn Hopewell visits St. Joe’s! Pictured from left to right: Tony Quattrochi, Faculty Member; Sr. Marilyn; Gene Pingatore, Director of Special Events.
Written by: Tony Quattrochi, Faculty Member
Sister Marilyn will always be remembered as the consummate educator – demanding superior work, requiring self-disciplined habits (occasionally having to administer the discipline herself!) and taking pride in the efforts of her students. God bless her! On July 10th, Sister Marilyn visited the school she knew and loved from 1973 to 1990. She sat down with Gene and I and had nothing but good memories to share with us as she reminisced about her students and coworkers those many years. Those who knew Sister were aware that when she left St. Joe’s at the age of 63 (she is now a young 85!), she was about to begin another chapter in her life. At St. Joe’s she had the distinction of being named the first Lasallian Educator of the Year when the school instituted the honor in 1990. When she left the Chargers, she traveled east to Philadelphia (she has family in Maryland) and Sister became the first African-American nun to be appointed principal in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. She later founded a school, with sponsors insisting it be named Hopewell Academy. Unfortunately, resources were unable to support the school and it closed after ten years, allowing Sister to retire after over sixty years in Catholic education. Sister’s life before and during St. Joe’s included a monumental event. She founded Black Catholic Revival but almost left the Archdiocese of Chicago when Cardinal Cody insisted she curtail that effort. When the Holy Father then published a statement calling for a revival in the Catholic Church, Sister Marilyn’s efforts were not scrutinized and her work quickly became significant in 28 parishes. To this day, when she visits parishes around the country where the program is active, she is seated in the front and recognized by the community as the founder of Black Catholic Revival. If St. Joe’s created a Mount Rushmore of its own, guarantee Sister Marilyn would be one of the faces majestically looking out on the young men for whom she endlessly labored!
15
st. JosePh high school 16
SEPTEMBER 2012
ST. JOSEPH HIGH SCHOOL SJHS @ National Night Out Event On Tuesday, August 7, 2012, the Village of Westchester Police Department, in conjunction with the Westchester Park District, executed their first ever National Night Out (NNO). NNO is a national event where communities come together to take a stand against crime. St. Joseph High School had a great presence at the event! St. Joseph students, faculty and staff participated in the walk from Gladstone Park to the Westchester Community Center where they then had some fun in the park. The St. Joseph display table provided literature that supported the theme of the evening, open house materials, SJHS goodies, water and even a raffle for the participants to enter for the chance to win a St. Joseph prize basket.
Thank you to all who helped represent our school at such a meaningful event! A special thank you to the Village of Westchester and the Westchester Police Department for planning and bringing the community together to take a stand against crime at the first ever National Night Out event in Westchester!
SHADOW DAYS Schedule a shadow day for any Friday during the school year! * 7th & 8th Graders are eligible
ENTRANCE EXAM Saturday
January 12
8:00 am to 12:00 pm
2012-2013
OPEN HOUSES Sunday
October 21 1:00 to 3:00 pm Sunday
November 18 1:00 to 3:00 pm Wednesday
December 12 6:00 to 8:00 pm
St. Joseph High School 10900 West Cermak Road Westchester, Illinois 60154 708-562-4433 www.stjoeshs.org
School District
School is back in session! Westchester Public Schools, School District 92½, opened their doors to students on Thursday, August 23. Unlike previous years when the first day of school was only an hour, this year the students began the year with a full day of classes. This change was in anticipation of the new State law requiring the first and last days of school to be full days. The law takes effect statewide for the 201314 school year. There have been several personnel changes throughout the district. First, beginning on July 1, Mr. Mike Dziallo took over as superintendent replacing Dr. Jean Sophie, who left the district to take another position in the Lake Bluff School District. Mike comes to Westchester from Cicero School District 99 where he has served as principal for eight years and for the past four years as the assistant superintendent for educational services. Other administrative changes include the Westchester Primary and Intermediate Schools. Leading the primary building is Mrs. Lori Henkels who comes to Westchester after serving as principal for the past four years in Wheeling School District 21. She is excited to be back in the
primary grades where her heart is. Transferring to the intermediate school from Westchester Middle School is Ms. Erin Dwyer. Erin, a Westchester resident, worked there as the assistant principal last year. She is replacing Mrs. Mary Leidigh at the intermediate school. Mrs. Leidigh retired from her position on June 30. Replacing Ms. Dwyer as assistant principal is Mrs. Stephanie DelFiacco who comes from North Berwyn School District 98 in Berwyn. Other new faculty and staff members include Ms. Angela Eichinger, Social Worker, and Ms. Jennifer Flanagan, kindergarten teacher, who both will join the faculty atWestchester Primary School. In addition to them, Mr. David Davis will support the teachers and students of Westchester Primary and Westchester Intermediate Schools with the integration and use of technology. Also joining the staff at the intermediate school are Rachel Dotseth who will join the fifth grade team of teachers, and Erin Wallace who will join the third grade faculty. Joining the faculty and staff of the middle school is Ms. Kelly Bylica who will teach music for the 2012- Ms. Judy Sardinas, who will serve as a 13 school year, Ms. Deborah Graham, cafeteria supervisor. who is joining the custodial staff, and Please welcome the new employees
SEPTEMBER 2012
17
as they embrace their new responsibilities to serve the residents of Westchester.
Financially speaking… The tight economy and the remnants of the recession are still evident throughout the country. There is a belief that local governments are exempt from recession woes. This is not the case at all. Rather, the consequences of a slowed economy affect local governments, such as school districts the same as it affects anyone else. The local governments tend to feel the sting of the recession later than most consumers, however. In anticipation of tighter times, the Board of Education and the administration of Westchester Public
Schools, District 92½, have slowed spending to align more to the loss of revenues, as the State of Illinois has either slowed their payments to local governments or the payments have been stricken altogether. Westchester Public Schools, School District 92½, have taken some measures to lessen the blow of the recession. One strategy was to move the medical insurance of its employees to another carrier saving some monies on the cost of the insurance. Another approach taken was to refinance bonds. The revenue
generated from the bond sale was actually collected in the last fiscal year and is reflected in the fund balances to begin this school year. Last, and the most prevalent approach, was to underspend budgeted amounts. These approaches are what allow the school district to function on a daily basis with monies to carry the district in anticipation of future payments from the State that may arrive late or not at all. Subsequently, in the spirit of transparency and responsibility to the Westchester community, the school district is
currently operating with a deficit budget. In other words, the FY13 budget for the district includes expenditures that outweigh the anticipated revenues for this fiscal year. However, the aforementioned bond sale monies were received as revenue in FY12 while the expenditures being made with those monies are reflected in the current FY13 budget. So, although the budget is in deficit, spending is not. Actual spending by Westchester Public Schools, District 92½, did not exceed available monies.
Upcoming events held throughout the school district September brings with it the opportunity for parents to meet their children’s teachers and learn about what this school year has to offer the students. Westchester Middle School will have their Curriculum Night from 6:308:15 p.m. on Thursday, September 6 at the middle school. Westchester
Intermediate School will host its Curriculum Night the following week, Thursday, September 13 from 6:30-8:00 p.m. The Curriculum Night for Westchester Primary School will be on Tuesday, September 18 from 6:30-8:00 p.m. Parents and guardians are highly encouraged to attend. Market Day is available at the middle
school. Pick-up is scheduled for Saturday, September 8 between 10:00 and 10:30 a.m. For more information about WMS Market Day, please call the school at 708.450-2735. Parents of middle-school-aged students are reminded of the Westchester Middle School-High School Night. Representatives from
various area high schools will be present to answer any questions and speak about their programs. It will be held at WMS, 1620 Norfolk Avenue, on Thursday, September 27 from 6:30-8:00 p.m. All are welcome to learn about the various high school programs offered to the students of Westchester.
18
SEPTEMBER 2012
SECURE LOOSE DENTURES!
Loose Fitting Dentures? Afraid to Smile? Are you afraid to eat the food you love?
If you answered “YES” to these questions, you may be a candidate for Mini Dental Implants using your existing dentures CALL today to schedule your FREE consultation for this COST EFFECTIVE procedure! Dr. John A. Los 201 E. Ogden Ave. Ste. 132 Hinsdale, IL 60521 General Dentistry
630-323-9540
Continental Barbers & Jeannie’s Hair Salon, Inc. Family Hair Care & Custom Wigs
Special $15.00 (reg $25.00) Keratin Complex Deep Conditioning Treatment with a Hair Cut and Style offer only good with mention of ad and appointment
708-531-1991 Conje.com “Established Hair Stylist Opportunity Available” 3 Westbrook Corporate Center, Westchester, IL 60154 Tower 3 Entrance, 1st Floor, Facing Wolf Road
SEPTEMBER 2012
19
Back to Back Championships for Westchester Knights U9 The Westchester Knights U9 travel baseball team finished their season strong with back to back tournament wins. Playing 12 games in 11 days, the 23-5 Westchester Knights went undefeated in back to back tournaments held by Oak Lawn and Evergreen Park. The Knights rallied to defeat the Oak Lawn Lightning on the final night of the 6 day event in dramatic fashion to take 1st place in the Oak Lawn tournament. Down 10-5 in the bottom half of the final inning, the Knights furious comeback was highlighted by a bases loaded triple by Joe Cousineau to tie the game, followed by a walk-off single by Luke Panek to clinch the championship. All 6 runs were scored with 2 outs!!!!!! The Knights then moved on to Evergreen Park the very next day, going a perfect 5-0 in the 5 day tourney, beating Evergreen Park 9-1 in the championship game. Head coach Ralph Lawrence summed up the season by saying,“This was the definition of TEAM effort. The boys worked extremely hard this summer and it paid off for them. We told the kids from day one that they play for Westchester on the front of their jersey, they bought into that and everyone of them represented their community with pride”. He also stated that,“the season could not have been a success without the great support of the parents”.
Team member, top row, from left: Coaches, Jerry Ball, Kevin Curtin, Ralph Lawrence, and Adrian Romero. 2nd row, from top, from left: Brennan Fisher, Michael Erwin, Jerry Ball, Ryan Smith, Luke Panek. Bottom row, from left: John Creviston, Luke Lawrence, Stephan Kwasigroch, Joe Cousineau, Shane Curtin, Adrian Romero.
Thank You
2012 Parade Sponsors!
WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING BUSINESSES FOR SPONSORING OUR PARADE SANFORD BROWN COLLEGE-HILLSIDE
DRYER VENT WIZARD GREATER CHICAGO
FMR HOME HEALTH INC.
ALPINE BANQUET HAUS
WESTCHESTER CIVIC THEATER
EMANUEL “CHRIS” WELCH
BODY GENESIS CENTER FOR INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE INGREDION
Chamber 20
of
Commerce
SEPTEMBER 2012
Multi-Community and Business Expo Open to the Public! The Westchester Chamber of Commerce and Hillside/Berkeley Chamber of Commerce invite all residents to drop by and check out our local businesses.
Date: Thursday, September 20, 2012 Where: Immanuel Lutheran School 2329 S. Wolf Road, Hillside Time: 5:00-7:00pm Admittance is FREE! Appetizers and Refreshments will be served Join us in supporting our local businesses and communities! www.WestchesterChamber.org (708) 240-8400
Westchester Chamber of Commerce “We Mean Business”
(708) 240-8400
www.WestchesterChamber.org
Networking Luncheon with Author & Speaker, Scott Newton. A Nation on Borrowed Time Tuesday September 25th Noon to 1 PM, Cost is only $17. Don’t miss this great opportunity to network and hear from Mr. Newton as he reviews a portion of his book on the declining wealth in small businesses and corporations. Hosted at The Bistro , 2 Westbrook Corporate Ctr. Tower 2 facing 22nd We kindly ask that you properly RSVP to the Chamber number above so we can prepare the correct amount of food and set up for the right amount of guests. Thank you.
The Chamber Coupon Corner Le Petite Café A Westchester Favorite! Bring this coupon in for a free dessert with entree purchase. Good through September. One coupon per table please- not combinable with other offers. Just north of 22nd at 1855 S. Manheim (708) 344-4100.
Special T Unlimited
P.O. Box 7309 - Westchester, IL
MEMBER MILESTONES! 2 Local Establishments Serving Westchester for 30 Year’s, WOW!
Drs. Sullivan and Suchy and staff would like to take the opportunity to say thank you for allowing us to serve the oral health needs of the Westchester Community for the past 30 years!, with many more smiles to come! AND Paul’s Pizza & Hot Dog would like to say “THANK YOU” to the Westchester Community for allowing them the opportunity to serve you for the past 30 years. Here’s to the next 30! New Clinic Coming September 4, 2012! Midwest Orthopedics at Rush will add Occupational Medicine to it’s already impressive list of Orthopedic Specialties. Dr. Richard Rodarte, board certified in Occupational Medicine and 25+ years of experience, will be the director of this clinic focused on the healthcare needs of area employer’s & employee’s.
Receive one free screen charge (a $30.00 value), and one free art charge (up to a 10 Years for Region 1438 AYSO Westchester! $40.00 value) when you order a minimum of The American Youth Soccer Organization’s vision is to provide 36 t-shirts! Please call Carmen Baldo at world class soccer programs that enrich children’s lives. AYSO Special T Unlimited at 708-449-5550 for Westchester has grown from 170 children 10 years ago to over more information or visit us at 450 children ages 4-18 today. The program is completely run 4835 W. Butterfield Rd., Hillside, IL 60162 by volunteers who continue to support our area children.
SEPTEMBER 2012
Westchester to hold flu shot clinic in Community Room
[
Help keep your family and the community healthy! The Village of Westchester will be hosting a Flu Shot Clinic in the Community Room from 10 AM to 1 PM on Monday, September 24 and Tuesday, September 25. Immunizations will be administered by pharmacists from the Dominick’s Pharmacy. Each year,seasonal flu vaccine is produced to protect against the three viruses or flu strains that research indicates will be most prevalent. There is a new vaccine for this season, as the 2012-2013 vaccine includes H1N1, as well as H3N2 and a B virus, which are different from those recommended for the Northern Hemisphere last season. We will be offering the flu shot, as well as an Adacel shot that provides immunization for tetanus and whooping cough. The clinic is open to all Westchester residents over the age of 14. Flu shots will be available for $26 and the Adacel shot will be available for $50. Cash or checks are accepted. Flu shots are covered under Medicare Part B, as well as many insurance plans. Dominick’s will be providing each participant with a coupon good for 10% off of their next grocery purchase. Please call Village Hall at 708-3450020 to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome, but an appointment will guarantee your spot!
21
Volunteers needed for electronics recycling program Next E-Waste Events Saturday, September 15, 2012 & Saturday, October 13, 2012 The Village of Westchester has been proud to offer our residents free electronic recycling one Saturday per month from April through November, for two years. The program is in need of volunteers to assist us for the September, October, and November 2012 events. We kindly ask that you volunteer your time for either 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon or one of the at wnovak@westchester-il.org or call following two shifts; 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 at 708-345-0020. a.m. or 10:30 a.m. -12:00 noon. It is Thank you for your time and through the help of volunteers that support. we are able to offer this program. Trustee Walter Novak Please contact Trustee Walter Novak
On Tuesday September 11, 2012 at 8:30 am join us in remembering the events of September 11, 2001. At 8:30 am the Village will hold a ceremony at the Memorial fountain located at Mannheim and Cermak Rd. The fountain is dedicated to servicemen and women and first responders including fire, police, military and those who perished on 9/11/01. Even if you are unable to attend the ceremony, we invite everyone to make this day one you will never forget. Make a difference in the community, volunteer your time with an organization, or help a neighbor in honor of those serving our country and protecting our freedoms. For more information on the 9/11 Make a Difference movement go to www.911day.org
]
22
SEPTEMBER 2012
9-30-12
SEPTEMBER 2012
Westchester’s #1 Real Estate Office Why Settle for Less - Work with the BEST!!! Homes Sold in Westchester in 2011 Real Living Gobber Realty
1860 S. Mannheim Road Westchester, IL 60154
Coldwell Banker Residential (LaGrange)
12
Re/Max Action
12
Coldwell Banker Stratford
Baird & Warner
(708) 531-0800 www.GobberRealty.com
48
11
8
This chart represents all detached and attached single-family homes that closed in Westchester according to MRED data between 1/1/2011 and 12/31/2011. The chart reflects offices with 8 or more deals and represents the total # of sides for each office. Data supplied by MRED may not reflect all real estate activity in the market. MRED is not responsible for the accuracy of the data supplied.
23
24
SEPTEMBER 2012
SEPTEMBER 2012
25
Water utility line protection program now available to residents The Village of Westchester is introducing a new, optional program available to homeowners that provides low cost, worry-free warranty protection for water lines.This program is similar to the sewer line protection program that was offered earlier this year. The program is provided through the National League of Cities (NLC) and administered by Service Line Warranties of America (SLWA). The NLC Service Line Warranty program offers citizens an affordable way to avoid the unexpected and often large expense involved with a water line break. When a line breaks, the cost to repair it can often cause hardship on a family’s budget. This new program will offer warranty protection to help cover the costs of a break. “Many citizens are unaware that they are responsible for the water lines that go from the point of utility maintenance to their homes. If these lines break or leak, repairs can be very expensive,” said Sam Pulia, Village President. “We chose to participate in this program for several reasons including that it is offered at no
cost to the village and it serves to educate our homeowners on their service line responsibilities while saving them money on repairs,” stated Sam Pulia, Village President. He continued, “SLWA has a perfect Better Business Bureau Rating and only uses local contractors who are familiar with our permitting and codes. This program could improve both water conservation and ground pollution, too, because we believe that residents will be more apt to quickly report any issues with their utility service lines.” Village of Westchester residents will see offers in their mail boxes soon. The cost for citizens who choose to purchase the warranty protection is $4.25 per month, and will cover water line repairs up to $4,000 plus an additional allowance of $500 for public sidewalk cutting, if needed. “We are pleased to work with the Village of Westchester to offer homeowners an affordable Service Line Warranty program,” said Brad Carmichael, Vice President of Business Development for Service Line Warranties of America.“We think Westchester residents will be
-Seeks Citizen Feedback-
The Citizens Advisory Board is still looking for some more feedback from YOU, the residents. Please take a minute go to the village website and click on the link to our survey. Any and all feedback is welcome. We want to thank the residents who already have taken the survey. Your feedback is appreciated. We hope everyone had a great enjoyable summer.
Neighbors helping Neighbors The Westchester Food Pantry is in desperate need of donations. As the demand for assistance has increased this year,the pantry supply has dwindled. Donations of non-perishable food items and toiletries are accepted at Village Hall, Monday through Friday from 8:30 am until 5:00 pm. Cash, checks, and gift certificates are also accepted. Food Pantry volunteers prepare baskets for your neighbors in need. If you would like to help or know residents who are experiencing hardships, please contact the Village Hall at 708-345-0020.
Thank you, Alyssa!
A special thank you goes out to Ms.Alyssa Brown,EditorialAssistant at Bugle/ Enterprise Newspapers for all of her hard work on the Village of Westchester Newsletter. Our visions would not have become a reality without her help. We wish her the best of luck and success in her new endeavors. Sincerely, Village of Westchester Staff
pleased with our features and benefits, including a 24-hour repair hotline and the use of local, certified technicians. This keeps dollars in the local economy, an important benefit in these tough financial times.” Service Line Warranties of America is the brand used by the Utility Service Partners, Inc. family of companies. Headquartered in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, they are one of the nation’s largest and most trusted sources of utility line warranties, serving residential customers since 1996. After a decade in business, SLWA has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. SLWA is proud to partner with NLC to deliver this program. The National League of Cities is dedicated to helping city leaders build better communities, and serves as a recourse and advocate for 19,000 cities, towns, and villages, representing more than 218 million Americans. For questions regarding this program, please contact Brad Carmichael at Service LineWarranties of America at 866-922-9006 or service@slwofa. com.
26
SEPTEMBER 2012 *This is a paid commercial advertisement*
Paul’s Pizza By: Anthony Gattuso
In September 2012 Paul’s Pizza officially turns 30 years old! This calls for a well-deserved Congratulations and Happy Anniversary to Paul Gattuso, owner and founder. Paul’s Pizza was a vision of an 18 year old man once upon a time, and after that man solidified his plan, he opened his own business 30 years ago this month. I am sure many people reading this article have their own Paul’s Pizza memories, and if you don’t, I encourage you to get over to 31st and Wolf, in Westchester, to create your own memorable times. I would also like to thank everyone who made this occasion possible for Paul. Without his loving family and friends behind him, his fantastic employees, and most of all, his loyal customers, this celebration would not be possible. So from the bottom of my heart, thank you all so very much! I have had the pleasure of having this wonderful business in my life for 25 years and Paul’s Pizza has made an unbelievable impact in my life. If
you will be so kind as to indulge me, I would love to explain to everyone what Paul’s Pizza and my dad Paul, really mean to me. My earliest childhood memories take place at Paul’s Pizza when it was located at 31st and Downing in Westchester. I remember walking in the restaurant then going up to the counter and seeing my dad, then in his twenties. He had a smile on his face, a pen and paper in his hand, and just the right amount of excitement that anyone talking to him was just drawn in. As a child I spent many hours at the restaurant, it was definitely a home away from home. While there I witnessed many things; I saw my dad open the store at 7am then work non-stop until he locked up the store at 10:30pm. I saw my dad greet, shake hands, or hug, every person who walked in the door. Then he would not only take the order but often he would make the entire order as well before handing the bag of food to the customer. He would then smile again, and say two little words, spoken with the upmost sincerity, to each and every customer, thank you. These two words, thank you, are
words that most people take for granted or use half heartedly but my dad was not one of those people 30 years ago and he is absolutely not one of those people today. I know he sincerely thanks all who have walked in the door of his restaurant because every customer plays a significant part of my father living his dream. What my father does every day of his life is not work, it is a passion. Every customer that walks into Paul’s not only offers my dad an opportunity to fill their stomach, but also, whether they know it or not, each customer allows my dad an opportunity to be 100% himself. The caring nature my father displayed when he first opened Paul’s Pizza is alive now more than ever 30 years later. My dad still walks in the door at 7am and works till close. He still greets every person who walks in the door, he still takes orders with a smile and he still says thank you to each and every person. His prolonged actions show this hardworking, passionate and thankful individual is who Paul Gattuso really is inside. My dad is the most caring and selfless person I have ever met. I honestly believe he was put on this
earth to make the lives of anyone around him better and there is not a day that goes by that he doesn’t accomplish this feat. Besides being the best father anyone could ever ask for, my father impacts the lives of all around him through countless acts of generosity. Everyday my father, by being himself, makes it his personal mission to help anyone that needs help and many who don’t even ask for help. My father has sponsored countless sports teams, held countless meetings, been a crying shoulder, been a supportive listener, donated to the less fortunate, and he would have it no other way. My father is the best role model anyone could ever ask for and if I or anyone else were lucky enough to be half as loving, successful and caring as my father, their life would be considered a complete success. I am unbelievably proud of my father for his wonderful accomplishment this month. No one deserves congratulations more than my dad does and I wish him many more years of continued success! Congratulations Paul Gattuso and here’s to the next 30 years of Paul’s Pizza!
Public Works SEPTEMBER 2012
27
Village Branch Pick-up 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. Please make every effort to cut oversized limbs/ stumps for one employee to lift and remove the dirt from the root ball to allow for pickup. Landscaping contractors are responsible for their own brush pickup and disposal.
September 2012 S
M
T
W
T
F
2
3*
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
September branch pick-up September 4-7
S
1
30
October branch pick-up October 1-5
Branch Pick-up Schedule 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.
October 2012 S
M
T
W
T
F
S
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
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.
TUESDAY THURSDAY Roosevelt Road south to Cermak Road-from Gardner Road From Belleview west to Wolf Road, Martindale Drive to 31 st west to Mannheim Road. Street Please Note: The Branch Pick-up Schedule is subject to change based on the amount of debris being picked up and weather conditions. If we miss your pick-up, we will return the following day. Branch Pick-up Village branch pickup will be Sept. 4th-7th. ( Note Sept. 3rd is Labor Day Holiday so brush pickup will be delayed by one day that week. Monday’s pickup will be Tuesday. Tuesday’s pickup will be Wednesday-Wednesday’s pickup will be Thursday and Thursday’s pickup will be Friday for that week.) The branch pickup for October will be October 1st5th
Waste Management Waste Management will also pick up your branches as long as they are tied in bundles no more than 4 feet in length. These are picked up every week, on your regular garbage day.
Holiday Garbage Schedule Garbage pickup for Sept 3rd Labor Day holiday will be delayed by one day- Mondays pickup will be TuesdayTuesdays pickup will be Wednesday-Thursday and Friday will be the same as usual.
50/50 Shared Cost Parkway Tree Program The Village Parkway Tree Program gives you the opportunity to add to the curb appeal of your home.The program is 50/50 shared cost and includes the purchase and planting of the trees. Residents have a choice of 5 types of trees indigenous to the area. The trees will be planted in November 2012. Call Public Works at 708-345-0041 for more information or to register. Please note, if you were part of the recent Spring planting of the 50/50 Shared Cost Tree Program, please remember to water the new tree a few times a week. Let the hose trickle around the base of the tree to provide a
good soaking. During dry periods this summer, additional water may be required. Fertilize only after the tree has been planted at least one year. Avoid hitting the trunk of your new tree with the lawn mower. Permanent damage can occur from bark injury. The trees are guaranteed for one year so if your new tree dies within that time we will have it replaced. If you have any questions or problems with your new tree, please call Public Works at 708-3450041 and an arborist will evaluate your tree. The Public Works Department continues to fill potholes throughout the Village. Please call Public Works at 708345-0041 to report potholes. Village residents are asked to call Public Works at 708345-0041 or the Police Non Emergency number after hours at 708-345-0060 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.
Sprinkling Ban Reminder We have water use restrictions in effect every year, May 15-September 15, from 12pm to 6pm.This includes: Outdoor Watering, Cleaning Outdoor Surfaces, Cleaning Buildings, and 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. EXAMPLE: Sept 10-even numbered day of the month: West side and north side can water before 12 noon and after 6:00 pm. East side and south side cannot water. Sept 11-odd numbered day of the month: East side and south side can water before 12 noon and after 6:00 pm.
The Village is currently soliciting for bids to rehabilitate 5 Village streets; Bids are due Thursday, August 23, 2012. Streets currently included in the program are: Westminster Drive Carlisle Street (Mayfair Ave. to Sunnyside Ave.) Bedford Street (Mayfair Ave. to Sunnyside Ave.) Downing Avenue (Oxford St. to Dorchester Ave.) Evers Avenue (Roosevelt Rd. to Dickens St.) Depending on the evaluation of the bids received, Bond Street (Westchester Blvd. to Portsmouth Ave.) may also be included in the program. Contract award contemplated should occur at the August 28, 2012 meeting of the Village Board. The Village has reserved the right to add or delete streets depending on how favorable the bids come in relative to budgeted amount for this planned work. Construction would tentatively begin mid to late September, with final completion by mid-November. An informational flyer will be hand delivered to all of those affected which will outline project details and attempt to answer frequently asked questions relative to the project.
28
SEPTEMBER 2012
Friday September 7th
@ Mayfair Park
Opening Pitch 7:00 PM
VILLAGE OF WESTCHESTER VS. WESTCHESTER PARK DISTRICT During the Back to School Picnic, attendees can enjoy this must see event!