December 2015 Village of Westchester Newsletter

Village of

Westchester DECEMBER 2015 Newsletter

From the Desk of The President POLICE DEPARTMENT

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FIRE DEPARTMENT

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VILLAGE CONTACTS

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SCHOOL DISTRICT

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CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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CALENDAR

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PARK DISTRICT

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Mary DĂŠtente and daughter Cara Mia get into the Christmas spirit by donating to the Salvation Army Holiday Drive. President Pulia donated his time as a bell ringer in front of Jewel/Osco. Please remember those less fortunate during this Holiday Season.

Christmas is right around the corner and I, like you, are way unprepared. Although this newsletter is being delivered on Monday, December 7, there are only 18 days until the man in the red suit drops down our chimneys.

This year has been very challenging for everyone I know. The uncertainty regarding the Islamic terrorists attacking Paris and other places, border control and the teetering of our political officials nationally, for reasons both sides believe are valid, and the uncertainty of our own troubles with our state elected officials regarding budget, funding , and even paying what they owe to local municipalities like Westchester are weighing heavily on all our minds. In an email I sent to the executive director of the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus in Chicago, whose membership is regional, as well as the Illinois Municipal League in Springfield back in October, I suggested that Governor Bruce Rauner, Senate President John Cullerton, Speaker of the House Michael Madigan, Majority Leader Kim Lightford,

Senate Minority Leader Christine Rodogno, House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, Representative James Durkin, House Minority Leader and one additional person from either side to be locked in a room until they can hash out the Illinois Budget, and get us moving forward. I also made the analogy that this is like a divorce where there are no winners and everyone is unhappy, but both parties get to move on with their lives. In this case, it is the health and welfare of the state of Illinois and the 12,881,000 million people they were elected to serve; Illinois being the 5th most populous state and the 25th largest state in land mass.

Janet Matthys, our Village Manager, and I also sent another letter requesting payment of our Motor Fuel Tax allotment to pay a $250k bond payment due December 1st for our street reconstructions that we have been doing since 2011. We sold $3,500,000

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Pictures 2015

Police Department DECEMBER 2015

Honoring the retirement of Chief Carpino On December 31, 2015 our police chief John M. Carpino is retiring from the Westchester Police Department.

John has served the department and village since being sworn in by me on September 1, 2015. John and I met each other in 1972 as police cadets hired by the Village of Addison. John’s career and aspirations were formed way before that as a kid growing up in Melrose Park, Il. and as a Holy Cross Crusader. John spent the bulk of his career as a police officer for the Oak Brook Terrace Police Department. He rose through the ranks and worked in every division in the department and was honored as the Du Page County Officer of the year for his tenacity in solving many serious felony crimes perpetrated by the worst of the worst. He continued his education graduating from Triton College and continuing his advanced education for a Bachelor and Masters degree at Lewis University all while on the job.

He managed to find his “Soul Mate” in his wife Patti whose father and brother were members of the Chicago Police Department. Patti and John married 40 years this past April managed to find time to raise a family with the coming of daughter Lindsey. John’s career became most prominent with his appointment to Chief of Police for the Village of Willow Springs, Il. in 2002, in Oak Brook in 2004, in Worth, (The Friendly Village) in 2007, and a return home to Oak Brook Terrace as

their Village Manager in 2010. As luck would have it in 2013 our Chief April Padalik announced her retirement after 30 years of dedicated service, and Johns itch to get “back in the game” made him the hands down choice to succeed April and lead the department, which he has certainly done for the short time he has been here. John’s greatest asset is his ability to handle any problem with fairness and fineness. With 40 plus years of experience, and the tenure as a chief at many departments, he has had to make many difficult decisions both affecting the citizens all police departments serve but difficult ones affecting his subordinates regarding disciplinary matters. This is one of the most difficult activities a chief can be put in. Accountability for your actions rules the day.

He is a no clutter type of guy with a near sterile office, and a frequent user of hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, and disinfecting spray. As you can tell John’s loss is not only Westchester.

It is a loss to the Law Enforcement Profession. I know he will continue molding and mentoring police officers earning advanced degrees and training as he continues as an Adjunct Faculty member of Lewis University.

Best of luck my friend, good health, and thanks for all you have done not only here but throughout your stellar career.

Your Friend Sam

Police blotter 1) At 7:19am on October 22, 2015 a Burglary to Auto was reported at the Hampton Inn located at 2222 Enterprise Drive. The owner of a van reported that person(s) unknown broke a lock and removed various tools.

2) At 2:32pm on October 23, 2015 a Retail Theft at Mariano’s located at 3020 Wolf Road. Two females were arrested for felony retail theft after removing liquor from the store without paying.

3) At 6:27am on October 27, 2015 a Theft from Auto was reported on the 10600 block of Fleet. The vehicle owner reported that items were removed from the bed of a truck valued at $1,200.

4) At 5:03pm on October 30, 2015 a Residential Burglary was reported on the 1000 block of Norfolk. The resident reported that unknown person(s) forced entry into the home and removed

money and miscellaneous items.

5) At 6:45pm on October 30, 2015 Criminal Damage to Auto was reported on the 1600 block of Balmoral. Two vehicle owners reported that their vehicles were damaged by someone using a sharp object to scratch the side of the vehicle.

6) At 7:37am on November 2, 2015 a Criminal Damage to Property was reported on the 1900 block of Mayfair.

The homeowner reported that unknown person(s) shot, what appeared to be a BB, through the front window causing the window to break.

7) At 4:57pm on November 7, 2015 a Residential Burglary was reported on the 10500 block of Camelot. The resident reported that unknown person(s) gained entry to the house and removed money.

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HOLIDAY SEASON

decorator Eric Détente, the 6’ 1”foot All of us here at the Village of “Will Ferrell Elf” did a wonderful job Westchester want to wish everyone putting the lights and decorations Continued from page 1 regardless of any religious up. The enthusiasm of the whole affiliations or lack of affiliation a PW team as they light up the General Obligation (Alternate Happy Holiday Season filled with town really shows our SEASONS Revenue Source) Bonds in bonds family, friends, and happiness. GREETING to all. back in 2010 to repair our streets During this time we celebrate the following our 2006 Street Survey. lives of those who we love and FIRST SNOWFALL HITS These bonds are financed by Motor care for, those who have passed on, AREA IN NOVEMBER On Friday and Saturday, November Fuel Tax funds.What makes matters and those we have yet to meet but worse, snow is on the way and our who acquaintance will make us a 20-21, the Chicagoland area was hit with not only the first snowfall salt purchase is paid for out of the better person. of the season but a record snow.

Motor Fuel Tax Fund. Holding the 11.2 inches of the white stuff fell money hostage has gone on this at O’Hare Airport. Midway Airport long. Who is going to blink first is CHRISTMAS TREE DONATION I would like to thank all of had 5.8 recorded inches. If you add not how we as the voting public pictured how our state elected the residents who offered their them up and divide by 2 (because officials would operate. I can evergreen tree to the village. There we are located between the 2 assure you the all the local Proviso were 10 nominated trees for staff airports) we had about 8.5 or more Township mayors and those of to look at and evaluate. The criteria inches fall here in Westchester. the Mayors Caucus are united in for submission is height, fullness, Our PW crews were on it with the urging our state officials to get the and ease of access for removal. This placement of salt early on so the state budget settled immediately as year the selected tree came from snow and ice would not get a grip realistically they will need to start 2323 Stratford and was owned by on the road. The weather service the Neisler Family. Winkler Tree said this was the 2nd heaviest all over again by July 1, 2016.

Hopefully the meeting held on Service Donated its service for snowfall only surpassed by a 12 December 1st 2015, by the leaders the removal. The morning it was inch snowfall on November 25-26 listed was a result of mine and other removed had to be the windiest in 1895; 120 years ago. For you elected officials letters demanding day of the year, however our PW history buffs and those who can a resolution to this far reaching staff managed to secure the tree to remember but would wish to forget, problem. As this is being written the trailer and drive it to its final the snowiest Novembers on record late November, I am hoping for the location. I’m sure the sight of the are in 1940 with 14.8 inches, 1895 best. If we see white smoke from police escorted truck travelling on with 14.5 inches and 1951 with the roof state capital it will be one Cermak to Mannheim to Roosevelt 14.3 inches. Now, I wonder what Rd was a mid morning eye opener. December will bring us. great present for all of us.

As usual our decorating crew of Jimmy Suero, Anthony Artman, WISHING YOU A GREAT and Dave Dillner led by master VILLAGE SNOW RESTRICTIONS

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IN-PLACE Please be mindful of the snow restrictions that have been in place for 30 years. After 2 inches of snowfall you must REMOVE all of the cars and trucks from the SNOW ROUTES. The cars and trucks must stay off the street until they are cleaned thoroughly by the plows, especially if the snow is continuing to fall. Alternate side parking on side-streets not identified as Snow Routes are in effect from 8:30am4:30pm Monday through Friday.

There is NO PARKING Monday, Wednesday and Friday on the even house numbered side, and NO PARKING Tuesday and Thursday on the Odd house numbered side.

Please check the signs at the end of you block for guidance.

A better suggestion if you do have a side driveway would be to park your car in the driveway when the weather report predicts a snowfall in excess of 2 inches. This way you won’t have to worry about getting a ticket form the police, interfere with plowing or salting activities and the streets can be cleaned curb to curb.

Also remember NOT TO PUT SNOW INTO THE STREET. This practice is against our code and creates a dangerous situation for vehicles and plows that may strike a pile of snow left in the street. I

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HEALTH ISSUES WITH SNOW REMOVAL

Be smart when shoveling snow.

I can recall vividly the day after Thanksgiving 2004 when I was shoveling a wet snow off my driveway. I was pushing and not really lifting and felt out of shape.

I finished the driveway thinking I better get to the health club as I had been feeling sedentary and not as active as I could be. Low and behold a visit to the doctor for a dry cough that would not go away detected that I had a heart attack that day. I was 49 years old and thought they were crazy. Medical tests and stent surgery don’t lie.

I’m one of the lucky ones.

I am including some helpful hints to remind us all that this silent MONTHLY WATER BILLS killer can be prevented.

For the past several years the The American Heart Association village board has discussed the says that for most people, possibility of changing from a shoveling snow may not lead to quarterly billing cycle to a monthly any health problems. However, the one similar to what we do for association warns that the risk of a commercial customers. Over the heart attack during snow shoveling past month UMI has been placing may increase for some, stating an outside cover over the touchpad. that the combination of colder Instead of having PW staff have to temperatures and physical exertion walk up to a touch the pad with a increases the workload on the mechanical reader we will be able heart. People who are outdoors in to read the meters remotely just by cold weather should avoid sudden driving by the home. Westchester exertion, like lifting a heavy shovel is one of the few communities in full of snow. Even walking through our area that does not have the heavy, wet snow or snow drifts can ability to remotely read the meters. strain a person’s heart.

There are many times with the To help make snow removal safer, quarterly billing that PW staff have the American Heart Association has to go back to a residence regarding compiled a list of practical tips: a high reading only to find that the · Give yourself a break. Take meter is working properly with the frequent rest breaks during homeowner having a leaky toilet or shoveling so you don’t overstress faucet that is causing the high bill your heart. Pay attention to how and unnecessary water loss. Recent your body feels during those law changes regarding how our breaks. unaccounted for water loss due to · Don’t eat a heavy meal prior or water main breaks, and unmetered soon after shoveling. Eating a large billable water will determine what meal can put an extra load on your steps we may have to take to rectify heart. the problem. Having a monthly · Use a small shovel or consider bill will make it easier to plan your a snow thrower. The act of lifting monthy budget or better yet catch heavy snow can raise blood an unusual amount of water usage pressure acutely during the lift. It due to a leaky toilet or faucet. is safer to lift smaller amounts Catching the problem early means more times, than to lug a few huge more money in your pocket. Staff shovelfuls of snow. When possible, is in the process of developing a simply push the snow. costing mechanism that is fair · Learn the heart attack warning to everyone. I have long had a signs and listen to your body, but problem with people, especially remember this: Even if you’re not seniors, using 3-4 thousand gallons sure it’s a heart attack, have it a quarter and being billed for the checked out (tell a doctor about minimum usage of 9 thousand your symptoms). Minutes matter! gallons. I believe we can come Fast action can save lives — maybe up with a more equitable system your own. Don’t wait more than where everyone pays the same for five minutes to call 9-1-1 being attached to our system and · Don’t drink alcoholic beverages for their actual usage. I’m anxious before or immediately after to see how this plays out. shoveling. Alcohol may increase a found it just as effective clearing driveway aprons side to side.

NOTE: Plows CANNOT LIFT their blades to avoid putting snow back on the driveway aprons.

Unfortunately, we all will be shoveling or snow blowing the snow more often than we like.

DO NOT put your garbage cans in the street. It becomes very difficult for the plows to drive around them and it prevents the curb to curb removal of snow by PW crews.

Shoveling or clearing a small area on the parkway where the cans can fit works best.

person’s sensation of warmth and may cause them to underestimate the extra strain their body is under in the cold. · Consult a doctor. If you have a medical condition, don’t exercise on a regular basis or are middle aged or older, meet with your doctor prior to the first anticipated snowfall. · Be aware of the dangers of hypothermia. Heart failure causes most deaths in hypothermia. To prevent hypothermia, dress in layers of warm clothing, which traps air between layers forming a protective insulation. Wear a hat because much of your body’s heat can be lost through your head.

Heart Attack Warning Signs Some heart attacks are sudden and intense — the “movie heart attack,” where no one doubts what’s happening. But most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people affected aren’t sure what’s wrong and wait too long before getting help. Here are signs that can mean a heart attack is happening: · Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain. · Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. · Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort. · Other signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

Calling 9-1-1 is almost always the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment. Emergency medical services (EMS) staff can begin treatment when they arrive — up to an hour sooner than if someone gets to the hospital by car. EMS staff is also trained to revive someone whose heart has stopped. Patients with chest pain who arrive by ambulance usually receive faster treatment at the hospital, too. It is best to call EMS for rapid transport to the emergency room. If you can’t access EMS, have someone drive you to the hospital right away. If

you’re the one having symptoms, don’t drive yourself, unless you have absolutely no other option.

The Westchester Fire Department has fully trained paramedics that are trained to handle medical emergencies. DO NOT HESITATE TO CALL 9-1-1. WE ARE AT YOU SERVICE 24/7.

Frostbite Frostbite is the freezing of skin and extremities of the body. The parts of the body most affected by frostbite are exposed areas of the face (cheeks, nose, chin, forehead), the ears, wrists, hands and feet.

When spending time outdoors during cold weather, be alert for signs of frostbite.

In superficial frostbite burning, numbness, tingling, itching, or cold sensations in the affected areas. The regions appear white and frozen, is cold to the touch, or is discolored (flushed, white or gray, yellow or blue).

In deep frostbite, there is an initial decrease in sensation that is eventually completely lost.

Swelling and blood filled blisters are noted over white or yellowish skin that looks waxy and turns a purplish blue as it re-warms. The area is hard, has no resistance when pressed on, and may even appear blackened and dead. If you notice these signs, take immediate action.

To treat frostbite, warm the affected part of the body gradually.

Wrap the frostbitten area in blankets, sweaters, coats, etc. If no warm wrappings are available, place frostbitten hands under your armpits or use your body to cover the affected area. Then seek medical attention immediately.

Do not rub frostbitten areas. The friction can damage the tissue.

Do not apply snow to frostbitten areas. Because its temperature is below freezing, snow will aggravate the condition. If frostbite occurs, take emergency action to begin warming the affected body part; then seek medical attention immediately.

Everyone is susceptible, even people who have been living in cold climates for most of their lives.

LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS On November 17, 2015, I attended a public forum hosted by the League of Women Voters of the LaGrange Area for a presentation on OIL by RAIL: How Safe Are We? There were three presenters at the forum: the manager of hazardous

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telephone list we receive from AT&T, and residents who want the notification via cell phone. The Continued from page 6 AT&T phone data base changes almost daily with more and more materials for the BNSF Railway; people getting rid of their land line a presenter from the Students 4 phones for cell phones, and moving Democracy, and a LaGrange Fide in and out of the village. Trying Department Captain. Each shared to keep up with the changes is information regarding the safety of difficult. 42% of people nationwide not only Oil Filled Tank Cars, but have ditched their landlines, and those filled with other hazardous have switched to cell phones for chemicals and materials. The BNSF all communication. If you would official told us about the safety like your cell phone added to protocalls that have been put into our data base for emergency place and foam availability as well information, please contact the as free training opportunities that Westchester Police Department many member fire departments NON-EMERGENCY number 708have attended. A differing opinion 345-0060, and type in extension was presented by the Student 245. That extension is for our IT 4 Democracy presenter due to Director Greg Hribal who maintains the hazards and the rail disasters our phone data base. Due to viruses including a recent derailment in that have been neutralized by Greg Wisconsin that spilled 20,000 and our IT provider by computer gallons of ethanol into the hackers, we are not allowing access Mississippi River. According to to our network for self entries. For railroad shipping documents, the past several years, Greg has the train had 15 tank cars loaded maintained the data base by adding with ethanol, five fewer than phone numbers to our notification would trigger speed restrictions list. set by federal regulators. Because it didn’t meet that threshold, the Also available on our website is train was permitted to operate at the ability to register for NIXLE 55 mph. The government set the ALERTS. new requirements this year in The Village of Westchester response to safety concerns about would like you to join our transporting crude oil by rail.

Nixle Notification system. Nixle The third presenter was a Captain is designed for the Village of at the LaGrange FD who told us Westchester to communicate about the training he and other information to residents through members of the department and email and text message. Types municipalities have had and the of information shared through readiness of area fire departments Nixle include Community Alerts, through the MABAS mutual aid Advisories, and Messages. agreements that are in place every How to sign up day. Communication to the public To join the Nixle system follow in the event of a rail derailment these instructions: involving hazardous materials and Go to www.nixle.com potential evacuation procedures, Click on “Sign Up Now!” in my opinion, are key to the health Enter your email address, create a and safety to all. Westchester has password, and provide your name two railways systems that would and mobile telephone number for affect us in case of a derailment. text message updates.

The first is the Canadian National Read and Accept the Terms of Railway that cuts across Mannheim Service and Roosevelt Road as it makes its Nixle will send you a text or email way eastward through Broadview, and you will need to respond to the Riverside and parts east. The message confirming your account second is the Indiana Harbor Communicating is key to keeping Belt that parallels Gardner Road you informed about what’s going located in the Village of Broadview on. Please avail yourself to these but a stone’s throw away from communication vehicles. our eastern border. Chief Adams assures me our Fire Department and the Mutual Aid supplied to ELECTRONIC SIGN PUBLIC HEARWestchester by our Division 20 ING OnWednesday,November 18th,the Partners are trained to handle Westchester Planning Commission situation that would occur here. met to make a recommendation regarding the application of the COMMUNICATION IS KEY Westchester Community Church For critical communications in to replace their outdated sign with Westchester, we rely on an updated an electronic one with LED display.

Several people spoke in favor of the new signage, as well as those opposed to the new sign. Persons providing testimony questioned whether adding another LED sign so close to the Westchester Park District sign would make the block appear to be a commercial zone. Rev Joe Mills, speaking as a representative of the church congregation, indicated the sign would be available for sharing community event information from not only their denomination but for other religious based facilities and schools events. A quorum of the Plan Commission heard additional testimony and forwarded a modification of the original request of operation. The original request was to have the dimmable sign operate from 6am to 10pm with a change of screen every 10 seconds.

The modification, unanimously approved for recommendation to the village board was to allow the sign to operate from 7am to 8pm with a 15 second screen change.

The LED portion of the sign is 5.5 square feet with dimensions of 12 5/8 inches by 63 inches. A transcript from the public hearing is being prepared and the matter is scheduled to appear before the Board of Trustees at our rescheduled meeting on Tuesday, December 15th.

WESTCHESTER POLICE CRIME PREVENTION NOTICES Westchester Police Officers have begun hanging “Crime Prevention Notices” where they observe situations that invite criminal activity. This initiative is similar to one being instituted in LaGrange Park in an attempt to stop criminal activity before it happens. During the Christmas Season, police departments see an increase in auto burglaries and theft. Vehicles that are left open, have visible valuables inside, and items left unattended are target for thieves trying to make a fast score. We have received reports in the past of entries being made on unlocked cars where change and glove boxes have been rifled.

The ultimate goal is to making our community a safe place to live and work. Taking that extra second to secure our property could stop you from becoming a victim. Crime Prevention is everyone’s business.

CELL TOWER PUBLIC HEARING On Monday, November 23rd, the Westchester Planning Commission met to review a proposal to construct a cell phone tower at

Mayfair Park. There were about 80 people present in the council chamber as Dolan Realty Advisers petitioned the plan commission to favorably recommend to the Village Board to allow a special use for the tower and antenna to be constructed. Those in attendance were told the tower/antenna is necessary to correct a loss of cell phone service that has been identified in this area. Police and Fire voice and data transmissions in the area have been delayed and dropped on as a result of poor coverage. Over 25 persons testified before the plan commission and expressed extreme opposition to the project. Some of their concerns were the uncertain studies of the affect of Radio Frequency Waves (RF) and cancer on persons, especially children, who utilize the park. Also of concern was the disruption to the aesthetic properties of the green space at Mayfair Park, the close proximity to Divine Providence School and church, and the reduction of property values associated with having a cell tower structure in the immediate area.

At the end of the night, the plan commission voted against the proposal. A transcript of the proceedings will be produced and forwarded to the village board.

The Westchester Plan Commission is a recommending body only, and does not have approval or denial authority. The Westchester Village Board at the time of this writing has not been asked to weigh in on the proposal. In the event that the issue will be presented to the Village Board, the time and date of the meeting will be posted on the Village web site for notification purposes, and in the newsletter.

I294 STAKEHOLDER MEETINGS On Friday, November 13, 2015, Village Manager Janet Matthys and I attended a meeting held at the Franklin Park Police Department as a stakeholder in the re-construction activities being proposed on the Tri-State Expressway I294.

The Illinois Tollway has started the master planning process for reconstructing the Central Tri-State Tollway from Balmoral Avenue to 95th Street. During the meeting an overview of the project was presented of the project area along with the discussion of the challenges and opportunities identified along the corridor. For those that may not know where Balmoral Avenue is located it is the

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from St. Ignatius College Prep and Spring Hill College, Dr. Shannon received his medical degree from Continued from page 12 Rush Medical College. He trained in Internal Medicine and was a Chief exit at Rosemont. The distance is Resident at University of Texas 22 .3 miles, covers 8 lanes, four in Southwestern Affiliated Hospitals each direction. 13 interchanges, in Dallas, and later earned specialty 65 bridges carrying I-294 over training in Pulmonary and Critical different features, 21 bridges over Care Medicine at the University of I-294, 2 oasis, and 5 mainline toll Michigan Medical Center in Ann plazas. The project time line is to Arbor. complete the Corridor Planning Council Report by 2016, have a Master Plan by 2017, Final Design HAPPY ANNIVERSARY It is hard to believe that Mariano’s Contracts (2017-2019), with I-294 Mainline Construction (2020- has been open for over a year now.

It seemed like yesterday that we 2022).

I asked that serious consideration were celebrating their opening. At be made regarding storm water every meeting I attend with other detention/retention so as to keep elected officials I am constantly stormwater in holding areas before told how fortunate we are as a it traverses into Hillside and village to have the Mariano’s in our Westchester where our storm sewer village. I just smile, and say keep system becomes overwhelmed. I shopping here.

As you may have heard, the also suggested an entrance ramp onto S/B I294 be considered off Roundy’s brand that supplies of Cermak Road, and a N/B ramp all of the Mariano’s stores was to N/B I294 from Roosevelt be recently purchased by Cincinnati based Kroeger Inc. for 200 million considered.

My thoughts on the ramps is dollars. Based on my research on based on the traffic flow along the internet it appears the financial Cermak, Mannheim, and Roosevelt wizards are touting the sale as a that backs-up for over a mile during “Strategic Masterstroke.” Kroger rush hours, that seems to be most said it doesn’t plan to close any of the day. I also indicated with stores and Roundy’s headquarters the reconstruction of the I290 will stay in Milwaukee.

I’m sure you all agree that (Eisenhower) being designed we were told North Avenue, Madison Mariano’s has been a great asset to Street Roosevelt Rd. and Cermak the village and the whole region. would be improved in some fashion It has brought positive economic before the I290 construction would value, has provided high quality go forward. I mentioned traffic is food products, and jobs. already at backup levels in our area without any construction activities going on and I could only imagine FIRE CAPTAIN RETIRES Captain James DeBoer retired what traffic is going to be when from the Westchester Fire these projects get started.

Department on November 2, 2015.

Captain DeBoer was honored at PROVISO MUNICIPAL LEAGUE the November 10th Village Board On Thursday, November 19, 2015 Meeting in appreciation and Village Manager Janet Matthys and recognition of his thirty years of I attended a meeting at Hillside professional service and dedication Best Western hosted by the Proviso to the Village of Westchester and Municipal League.

The guest the protection and safety of our speaker was Dr. John Jay Shannon citizens. Thank you, Jim! the CEO of the Cook County Health and Hospital System. Dr. Shannon spoke about the great things the FIRE DEPARTMENT PROMOTIONS As sad as we are to say good-bye hospital and it affiliate satellites are doing to make sure people of to Captain DeBoer, his retirement all races and gender are receiving has created opportunities for two medical treatment in a professional others. Fire Lieutenant Patrick caring manner. Dr. Shannon went Sherlock has been promoted on to say as a result of the Affordable to Fire Captain and Firefighter Care Act insurance providers are Michael Doocy has been promoted actually paying the bill where prior to Fire Lieutenant. Congratulations, to the act the bills taxpayers were gentlemen!

President Pulia Honored by Triton funding a majority of the costs associated with health care. An College Foundation On Wednesday, November 18th, area native, Dr. Shannon grew up in LaGrange, IL. After graduating the Triton College Foundation

hosted its 23rd Annual Triton College Foundation President’s Reception. This elegant event, held on Triton’s campus, featured the culinary talents of Triton’s Hospitality students and local restaurants, as well as a silent auction. This year’s honorees were Sam D. Pulia, Village President, Village of Westchester, and Joseph T. Tamburino, Mayor, Village of Hillside. Sam was recognized, in part, for his efforts regarding flood mitigation, not only in Westchester, but the region. Congratulations, President Pulia!”

an internal audit by PW Director Robert Lewis to verify we got what we paid for. It is our goal to get all the sidewalks replaced, driveway aprons, re-dirt parkways, and asphalt replacement on Carlisle and portions removed along Mayfair, Downing, Buckingham, and Sunnyside. Due to the uncertainty of weather it is prudent to not start something we can not finish and have Kensington in a position not to be plowed with what could be another Chicago winter. The board and I have been committed from the start to do all that we could to prevent flooding in the Carlisle COOK COUNTY BOARD OF REVIEW area. We have decided to follow Commissioner Dan Patlak authored the recommendations of our V3 the above article and hopefully you partners to include improvements were able to attend the Property along Downing and Kensington Tax Assessment Appeal Seminar he when we received alternate hosted at the Westchester Village bids for the work back when the Hall on Monday November 23, project was first bid. As you are 2015. If you want to appeal your certainly aware that finances and property taxes you only have 1 more the lack thereof have always been, day to do so. The appeal process and will continue to be an issue in for Proviso Township opened on Westchester and other villages.

Monday November 9th and will end TOMMORROW TUESDAY December 8th 2015. Filing can be COOK COUNTY AMUSEMENT done online. For more information TAX TWARTED President Preckwinkle in 1-312-603-3651 or https://appeals. presenting her Cook County Budget cookcountyboardofreview.com/. for 2016 had an Amusement Tax component that I along with all of YARD WASTE PROGRAM ENDS the mayors belonging to the West As mentioned in the November Central Municipal Conference Newsletter,Electronic Sign,and web vehemently opposed. Our group site Friday December 5 was the last of 50 mayors sent a unified letter pickup date for yard waste per or to President Preckwinkle and Cook contract with Waste Management. County Officials expressing our Hopefully you were able to remove displeasure. The tax would have all of the leaves before December added an additional 3% tax to your 5th. If not you will have to hold it cable television bills. I don’t know until Waste Management starts its about you but for those of us who pick-up again in April 2016. remember FREE television have a hard time paying somewhere between $100 and $200 per month MAYFAIR RESERVOIR AND for what I consider a necessity, TV, CARLISE STREET IMPROVEMENTS INTERNET, and PHONE service.

Berger Construction and our I am glad that our Cook County Engineering Firm V3 have been Commissioners voiced their working diligently to get the opposition and the tax has been Carlisle Street pipe installation removed from discussion. done. The month delay in NICOR”s Gas Line relocation has really put COOK COUNTY PASSES 2016 the project behind schedule. The BUDGET WITH ADDITIONAL additional piping increasing the TAXES pipe size along the side streets Cook County Board President Toni of Downing and Kensington and Preckwinkle always called her $4.5 some of the underground double billion budget – which will tag an attachments from sump pumps additional tax on everything from and downspouts have increased hotels and e-cigarettes to bullets the cost and also delayed the and lawsuits — “difficult.” completion until spring. We have But the budget,which will increase been analyzing the project and with spending by the county by nearly the snow coming, and the ability to $500 million, met 12-5 approval by plow that a decision has been made commissioners on Wednesday. The to delay the completion of the budget factors in a penny-on-theKensington Street improvement. dollar sales tax, which will go into V3 is in the process of evaluating See PRESIDENT, page 24 our expenditures to date with

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The Westchester Food Pantry due to your generosity and the help of the cadre of volunteers has in Continued from page 18 my opinion done a terrific job this year in feeding those in need. I effect in January. The total sales tax have never seen so much food will rise to 10.25 percent — among products stacked in several cubbie the highest in the nation — when holes at the village hall. Ms.Amanda state and other taxing bodies’ Grant and Kathleen Franzois have portions are added in. infused the already stellar program to new heights. Donations from “I cautioned almost exactly a year the Dixon Law Firm located in ago — when the Board passed LaGrange Illinois recently featured the FY 15 budget — that FY 16 in the Suburban Life Newspaper last would be extremely difficult. And month, also joined in Westchester’s developing this budget was indeed effort to help those in need. There difficult. But we managed to close are many organizations throughout a preliminary $198 million gap Westchester that have made our through a variety of expense cuts, efforts second to none. To mention smart management initiatives and a few, Mariano’s, Jewel Food store, with only modest tax and fee hikes,” Boy Scout Troop 1, Mattone’s for Preckwinkle said in a statement. hosting the Thanksgiving Eve Preckwinkle called the budget a Concert and food drive, Divine “responsible” one that “tackles our Providence, Divine Infant. I needs head-on, without dodging know there are many many more tough decisions or kicking the can individuals who either donated, down the road,” she said. dropped off, packaged, boxed, Last month, Preckwinkle and delivered who are really the announced at a budget meeting unsung heros. Thank you for that she would push to extend making Westchester the most the county’s 3 percent amusement Welcoming village ready to extend tax to include golf, bowling, cable a hand to others. The pantry is television and secondary sales of actively looking for a vacant store sports tickets. front or location to operate out of.

But that plan was scrapped — They are a 501c3 organization. If except for a tax on ticket reselling you need a write off, we have the websites — as Preckwinkle met tenant. with commissioners and gained support for a 1 percent hotel tax which will increase the overall tax TOILETRIES FOR to a whopping 17.4 percent come SOLDIERS/VETERANS Again a big thank you for all of the May.That’s compared to 12 percent for Las Vegas and 12.5 percent for personal care products that were Orlando, Chicago’s two biggest donated to our military personnel rivals for convention business. That serving overseas. We were able to is expected to bring in about $31 send about 15 care packages to Brian Maier son of Andy and Kathy million a year.

The tax on ticket reselling sites Maier who is serving in Somalia, is estimated to bring in $750,000 a Africa. We are trying to get all year. The county will also tag on a of the packages delivered before Christmas. $20 fee for filing lawsuits.

Special thanks to Boy Scout Troop The budget also changed the county’s tobacco tax ordinance to 1 for their collection efforts for include e-cigarettes and e-vapor care packages of hygiene products products to be taxed at 20 cents per for local veterans, many of which milliliter. That change is expected are homeless. The items are being donated through the Veterans to bring in $1.5 million.

The county is reducing its work Administration. force by 1.2 percent— both by eliminating vacancies but also with COMED CUSTOMER HANDBOOK some layoffs.

While gathering information for The budget also includes a 1-centper cartridge tax on ammunition the newsletter I came upon the such as .22 caliber bullets, and a 5 ComEd Customer Handbook which cent per bullet tax on 9mm bullets. has a host of valuable information County Commissioner Richard that you may be able to use. There Boykin signed onto the hotel tax are a host of important telephone only after Preckwinkle agreed to numbers, Mobile Applications resurrect her failed, four-year-old that can be downloaded in order to report and receive outage plan to tax ammunition sales. information. Safety information, FOOD PANTRY HIGHLIGHTS bill paying instructions and options

as well as customer assistance programs for hardships offer web and telephone numbers that care invaluable. Smart Ideas Energy Efficiency Programs for us to save money by having a home energy assessment and appliance rebate information and lighting discounts is available. For more information www.comed.com.

PREVENTING FALLS With snow and Ice already here as a result of our November 2122 Snowfall I would like to share some information I read in a SAFE SENIOR booklet from the National Fire Safety Council I picked up.

Each year, nearly 2 million seniors citizens are taken to hospitals for fall injury treatment and over 7,000 senior citizens die as a result of falls. Half of the falls could have been prevented. Poor health is a contributor.

General Health: Balance and gait, sensory changes, and changes in reflexes can contribute to fall risk, especially in seniors who already have a fear of falling. Medical conditions and medications can increase the possibility of a fall injury.

Follow the directions on all medications- prescription and over the counter.

Schedule regular eye exams.

Impaired vision can cause unsteady walking.

Monitor your blood pressure.

Report any dizziness to a doctor immediately.

Get up slowly after eating, resting, or lying down.

Exercise to build strength and muscle tone and to keep joints, tendons, and ligaments more flexible.

Rugs, Runners, & Stairways Yearly about 2500 people over 65 are treated in emergency rooms for injuries from tripping over rugs and runners.

Install a long handrail on staircases and grab bars by bath tubs, toilets, and in showers. Tighten any loose fixtures.

Secure carpet, rugs, or stair runners that are not fastened down.

Wear well-fitted shoes or slippers with non-slip soles.

Take your time when walking.

Use walking aids when needed.

Avoid deep pile, dark colored, or patterned carpeting that can make it difficult to see the step’s edges clearly.

Avoid sharp changes in flooring levels such as from high carpet and low vinyl.

Stools and Ladders

Falls are the #1 cause of accidental death in persons 55 and over. The majority of accidental falls occur in homes during everyday activities.

Ask for help before climbing for something out-of-reach or use a long handled grab-style reacher aid.

Use a step stool with a handrail.

Make sure the stool is fully opened and stable before using it.

Never use a step stool or ladder that is broken.

The article goes on to say that of those who fall, only half are able to return home to live independently.

REMEMBER Pearl Harbor TODAY DECEMBER 7TH On this date 74 years ago, the United States of America was attacked by military forces from the Empire of Japan. As a result of the attack Congress Declared War and the USA entered a conflict that shaped our world today. Below is an article from the History Channel Web Site that explains in some detail the incident as reported and the loss of life that occurred.

Just before 8 a.m. on December 7, 1941, hundreds of Japanese fighter planes attacked the American naval base at Pearl Harbor near Honolulu, Hawaii. The barrage lasted just two hours, but it was devastating: The Japanese managed to destroy nearly 20 American naval vessels, including eight enormous battleships, and almost 200 airplanes. More than 2,000 Americans soldiers and sailors died in the attack, and another 1,000 were wounded. The day after the assault, President Franklin D. Roosevelt asked Congress to declare war on Japan; Congress approved his declaration with just one dissenting vote. Three days later, Japanese allies Germany and Italy also declared war on the United States, and again Congress reciprocated. More than two years into the conflict, America had finally joined World War II. Pearl Harbor and the Road to War The attack on Pearl Harbor was a surprise, but Japan and the United States had been edging toward war for decades. The United States was particularly unhappy with Japan’s increasingly belligerent attitude toward China. The Japanese government believed that the only way to solve its economic and demographic problems was to expand into its neighbor’s territory and take over its import market; to this end, Japan had declared war on China in 1937. American officials responded to this aggression with a

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battery of economic sanctions and trade embargoes. They reasoned that without access to money and goods, and especially essential supplies like oil, Japan would have to rein in its expansionism.

Instead, the sanctions made the Japanese more determined to stand their ground. During months of negotiations between Tokyo and Washington, D.C., neither side would budge. It seemed that war was inevitable.

Did You Know?

The single vote against Congress’s declaration of war against Japan came from Representative Jeannette Rankin of Montana. Rankin was a pacifist who had also voted against the American entrance into World War I. “As a woman,” she said, “I can’t go to war, and I refuse to send anyone else.”

But no one believed that the Japanese would start that war with an attack on American territory.

For one thing, it would be terribly inconvenient: Hawaii and Japan were about 4,000 miles apart. For another, American intelligence officials were confident that any Japanese attack would take place in one of the (relatively) nearby European colonies in the South Pacific: the Dutch East Indies, for instance, or Singapore or Indochina.

Because American military leaders were not expecting an attack so close to home, the naval facilities at Pearl Harbor were relatively undefended. Almost the entire Pacific Fleet was moored around Ford Island in the harbor, and hundreds of airplanes were squeezed onto adjacent airfields.

To the Japanese, Pearl Harbor was an irresistible target.

“A Date Which Will Live in Infamy” The Japanese plan was simple: Destroy the Pacific Fleet. That way, the Americans would not be able to fight back as Japan’s armed forces spread across the South Pacific.

On December 7, after months of planning and practice, the Japanese launched their attack. At about 8 a.m., Japanese planes filled the sky over Pearl Harbor.Bombs and bullets rained onto the vessels moored below. At 8:10, a 1,800-pound bomb smashed through the deck of the battleship USS Arizona and landed in her forward ammunition magazine. The ship exploded and sank with more than 1,000 men trapped inside. Next, torpedoes pierced the shell of the battleship USS Oklahoma. With 400 sailors

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aboard, the Oklahoma lost her balance, rolled onto her side and slipped underwater. By the time the attack was over, every battleship in Pearl Harbor–USS Arizona, USS Oklahoma, USS California, USS West Virginia, USS Utah, USS Maryland, USS Pennsylvania, USS Tennessee and USS Nevada–had sustained significant damage. (All but USS Arizona and USS Utah were eventually salvaged and repaired.)

In all, the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor crippled or destroyed 18 American ships and nearly 300 airplanes. Dry docks and airfields were likewise destroyed. Most important, almost 2,500 men were killed and another 1,000 were wounded.

But the Japanese had failed to cripple the Pacific Fleet. By the 1940s, battleships were no longer the most important naval vessel: Aircraft carriers were, and as it happened, all of the Pacific Fleet’s carriers were away from the base on December 7. (Some had returned to the mainland and others were delivering planes to troops on Midway and Wake Islands.) Moreover, the Pearl Harbor assault had left the base’s most vital onshore facilities–oil storage depots, repair shops, shipyards and submarine docks–intact.As a result, the U.S. Navy was able to rebound relatively quickly from the attack.

Pearl Harbor Awakens the “Sleeping Giant” “Yesterday,” President Roosevelt said on December 8, “the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked.” He went on to say, “No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory. I believe I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost, but will make very certain that this form of treachery shall never endanger us again.” After the Pearl Harbor attack, and for the first time after years of discussion and debate, the American people were united in their determination to go to war. The Japanese had wanted to goad the United States into an agreement to lift the economic sanctions against them; instead, they had pushed their adversary into a global conflict that ultimately resulted in Japan’s first occupation by a foreign power.

On December 8, Congress approved Roosevelt’s declaration of war. Three days later, on December 11, 1941, Japanese allies Germany and Italy declared war against the United States. For the second

time, Congress reciprocated. More than two years after the start of the conflict, the United States had entered World War II.

SORROW IN OUR MIDST I regret to inform you that Retired Police Chief Donald R. Musker, age 83, of Indian Head Park, formerly of Westchester has passed away Chief Musker served our country as a member of the US Marine Corps and was a Veteran of the Korean War. Chief Musker served as a police officer for 38 years, retiring as the Chief of Police of Westchester in 1996. I served with Chief Musker from 1974 to 1996 when he retired.

Chief Musker was instrumental in upgrading the training opportunity for the police profession and was instrumental in the conversion of an electric supply building into our present police facility. For those of you who remember “Charger Inn,” Chief Musker and his wife Eileen were the proprietors for many years.

REST IN PEACE CHIEF. Another brave soldier in God’s Army.

FROM THE BOARD At the October 27th Village Board Meeting, the following items were approved under the Consent Agenda: Approval of the Record of Bills ending 10-22-15 in the amount not to exceed $699,196.06 Approval of Minutes of the October 13, 2015 Village Board Meeting, Minutes of the October 13, 2015 Committee of the Whole Meeting, An Ordinance Amending Chapter 18.58, entitled “Signs”, of Title 18, entitled “Zoning”, of the Westchester Municipal Code An Ordinance Amending Chapter 3.45, entitled “Tax on the Gross Receipts of Places for Eating”, of Title 3, entitled “Revenue and Finance” of the Village of Westchester Municipal Code A Resolution Approving and Ratifying Change Order No. 1 to a Contract Between the Village of Westchester and K-Five Construction Corporation for Services Related to the 2015 Street Improvement Program in the Amount of $2,120.00 A Resolution Determining the Estimated Property Taxes to be Levied for the 2015 Tax Year of the Village of Westchester, Illinois Resolution Advising and Consenting to Appointment of Certain Officers At the October 27th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under New Business:

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Presentation of LED “Poster Panel” Sign Proposal Water Meter Manual Read Alternative Road Salt Policy At the October 27th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under Old Business: 2nd Ambulance Feasibility Report Triton Regional Firing Range At the October 27th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under Information Only: Gladstone Park Camera Status Village Response to Norcomm Investigation At the November 10th Village Board Meeting, the following items were approved under the Consent Agenda: Approval of the Record of Bills ending 11-05-15 in the amount not to exceed $855,349.42 Approval of Minutes of the October 27, 2015 Village Board Meeting, Minutes of the October 27, 2015 Committee of the Whole Meeting, and Minutes of the October 27, 2015 Executive Session Approval of Departmental Monthly Reports of: Community Development Department, Fire Department, Police Department, and Public Works Department At the November 10th Village Board Meeting, the following items were approved under the Active Agenda: A Resolution Providing for the Submission to the Electors of the Village of Westchester, at the General Primary Election to be held on March 15, 2016, a Public Question as to Whether the Village Should Become a Home Rule Unit A Resolution Urging Illinois State Leaders to Release Non-General Fund Revenues Payable to Local Governments A Motion to Amend the Schedule of Village Board Meetings for the Month of December 2015 At the November 10th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under New Business: Proposed Amendment to Village Code – Sign Fees Development of a Village-Wide Strategic Plan Proposed Amendment to Village Code – Chapter 2.60 – Water Department – Billing Consideration of a Lease Termination Agreement with US Cellular At the November 10th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed

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An Ordinance Abating the 2015 Tax Levy for the $3,500,000 Village of Westchester, Cook County, Illinois Taxable General Obligation Bonds (Motor Fuel Tax Alternate Revenue Source), Series 2010A An Ordinance Abating the 2015 Tax Levy for the $1,610,000 Village of Westchester, Cook County, Illinois Taxable General Obligation Bonds (Water and Sewer Alternate Revenue Source), Series 2010B An Ordinance Abating the 2015 Tax Levy for the $5,800,000 Village of Westchester, Cook County, Illinois Taxable General Obligation Bonds (Sales Tax Alternate Revenue Source), Series 2013

Service Within the Village of Westchester A Resolution Authorizing the Continued from page 25 Execution of a Lease Termination Agreement and General Release under Old Business: Between the Village of Westchester Real Estate Inspections and United States Cellular Triton Regional Firing Range IGA Operating Company of Chicago in Water Meter Manual Read the Amount of $8,513.71 Alternative At the November 24th Village Gladstone Park Security Camera Board Meeting, the following items Update were approved under the Active Agenda: At the November 24th Village A Resolution Authorizing the Board Meeting, the following items Execution of a One-Year Renewal were approved under the Consent Option of a Photo Enforcement Agenda: ProgramAgreement with Safespeed, LLC Approval of the Record of Bills A Resolution Approving a ending 11-19-15 in the amount not An Ordinance Abating the 2015 Collective Bargaining Agreement to exceed $973,820.78 Tax Levy for the $2,200,000 Village between the Village of Westchester Approval of Minutes of the of Westchester, Cook County, and the Combined Counties Police November 10, 2015 Village Board Illinois Taxable General Obligation Association (Clerical Westchester Meeting, Minutes of the November Bonds (Sales Tax Alternate Revenue Chapter) 10, 2015 Committee of the Whole Source), Series 2015 A Resolution Approving a Meeting, and of the November 10, A Resolution Directing the Collective Bargaining Agreement 2015 Executive Session County Clerk to Calculate Separate between the Village of Westchester An Ordinance Providing for the Limiting Rates for the Tax Levy of and the Combined Counties Police Levy, Assessment and Collection of the Village of Westchester, Illinois Association (Police Civilian Unit) Taxes for the Fiscal Year Beginning for the 2015 Tax Levy Year A Resolution Amending Section May 1, 2015 and ending April 30, An Ordinance Amending the 5-11 entitled “Health and Dental 2016, for the Village of Westchester, Village of Westchester Municipal Insurance” of Article 5, entitled County of Cook, State of Illinois in Code Regarding the Billing and “Employee Benefits” of the Village the amount of $7,751,097.00 Payment Procedures for Water of Westchester Personnel Policy

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Manual At the November 24th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under New Business: Proposed Change Order – Mayfair Phase II Water & Sewer Rate Study Proposed Change in Mariano’s Liquor License Classification Request for Handicapped Street Parking – 716 Norfolk Ave Proposed 2016 Schedule of Meetings of the Village President and Board of Trustees of the Village of Westchester Cook County IL Proposed Amendment of Chapter 14.01.110, Entitled “Fees” of Article II, Entitled “Permits” of Chapter 14.01, Entitled “Administration”, of Title 14, Entitled “Buildings and Construction,” of the Village of Westchester Municipal Code Review of Executive Session Minutes At the November 24th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under Old Business: Gladstone Park Security Camera Update Proposed Amendment to Village Code – Sign Fees Proposed Nuisance Ordinance

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