Village of Westchester February 2015 Newsletter by Village of Westchester, IL

Village of

Westchester February 2015 Newsletter

From the Desk of The President WESTCHESTER IN PICTURES

POLICE DEPARTMENT

FIRE DEPARTMENT

4 Westchester Persons of the Year were honored at the Celebrate Westchester event on January 24th. Pictured from left are Westchester Food Pantry volunteers Rick Harris, Bridget Rowan and Aque Harris with President Pulia.

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PARK DISTRICT

PUBLIC WORKS

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

OMG! Today is February 2nd Groundhog Day Groundhog Day is celebrated every year on February 2nd. The official groundhog lives in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. His name is Punxsutawney Phil. According to legend, if Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow (the day is bright and sunny), there will be six more weeks of winter weather. If he does not see his shadow (the day is overcast), there will be an early spring. My hope is an early spring!! On February 2, Punxsutawney Phil comes out of his burrow at Gobbler’s Knob - in front of thousands of followers from all over the world to predict the weather for the rest of season. The celebration of Groundhog Day began with Pennsylvania’s earliest settlers. It stemmed from a combination of religious beliefs and facts associated with hibernating animals. I was visited mid-January by my 3rd grade teacher Ms.Noreen McGinley from the Mary Jane Kennedy Grammar School (now the Westchester Primary School) last week. Ms. McGinley left me a small newspaper article she found about the Groundhogs titled Groundhogs: Fun Facts and Interesting Trivia. Always following my

teachers edicts, I am sharing these facts. The average groundhog is 20 inches long and normally weighs from 12 to 15 pounds. Puxsutawney Phil weighs about 20 pounds and is 22 inches long. Groundhogs are covered with course grayish hairs tipped with brown or sometimes dull red. They have short ears, a short tail, short legs, and are surprisingly quick. Their jaws are exceptionally strong. A groundhog’s diet consists of lots of greens, fruits and vegetables and very little water. Most of their liquids come from dewy leaves. Groundhogs are one of the few animals that really hibernate. Hibernation is not just a deep sleep. It is actually a deep coma, where the body temperature drops to a few degrees above freezing, the heart barely beats, the blood scarcely flows, and breathing nearly stops. (Don’t you wish you could sleep like that?) Young Groundhogs are usually born in midApril or May, and by July that are able to go out

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Pictures

If you have photos of community events you would like to submit for consideration, please send to newsletter@westchester-il.org

Fire Department FEBRUARY 2015

Police Department 4

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Safety tips for winter driving The winter season brings additional driving challenges and hazards, and requires some modifications to our normal driving habits. Ice and snow are two of the most obvious hazards associated with winter driving, but a great deal of winter time accidents also occur on sunny, relatively dry days. The main reason for the majority of traffic accidents during this time of year have to do with longer distances that are required to stop our vehicles. The loss of traction is the cause for longer stopping distances, so it helps to have an understanding of what affects the traction we have available to us as we drive. There are three main factors that affect traction: Road Surface – The road surface that you are driving on is another factor that affects your available traction. If the roadway is new, it has greater traction. If the roadway is old and traffic polished, it will have less traction. There is usually no difference in traction between concrete roadways and asphalt roadways, but both afford more traction than gravel roadways or shoulders. Roadway defects such as potholes can also affect traction.

While driving, take a moment to look at the surface you are driving on. If the roadway appears to be older and worn by traffic (Usually has a “shiny” appearance) use extra caution and allow more room to stop your vehicle. Excess oil deposits on the road will also decrease traction, and the same caution should be used. Environmental Conditions - The obvious environmental conditions that affect traction are rain, snow, and sleet. Other environmental conditions can also affect traction, however; Extreme cold will actually result in less traction from the roadway surface. Cold days also require extra caution when driving over bridges, due to the underside of the road being exposed to the air. Bridges are the first areas of a roadway that will freeze because both the top and bottom of the surface is being hit with the cold air. Once again, greater distance is required to stop your vehicle when any of these environmental factors are present, so more distance should be left between your vehicle and vehicles in front of you. A good way to judge the proper

Police blotter 1) The vehicle owner reported that unknown person(s) had gained entry into their vehicle and took approximately $3,000 worth of tools and other items from the vehicle.

tools. 5) At 5:48pm on January 3, 2015 a Criminal Damage to Property was reported on the 1600 block of High Ridge. The vehicle owner reported that 2) At 12:10pm on December 17, 2014 unknown person(s) slashed 3 tires a Criminal Damage to Property was causing approximately $800 in reported on the 3000 block of Ashton. damage. A homeowner reported that a rock had been thrown through the 6) At 9:01am on January 4, 2014 window of the living room. a Commercial Burglary was reported at 10034 Roosevelt 3) At 10:56am on December 22, Road, Ashland Addison Florists. 2014 a Criminal Damage to Vehicle It was advised that between January was reported in the parking lot 3 at 4:45pm and January 4 at 9:01 am, of 3 Westbrook Corporate Center. unknown person(s) gained entry to A vehicle owner reported that the business and removed cash and unknown person(s) caused damage checks from the business. to the tires on the vehicle. 7) At 12:55am on January 7, 2015 a 4) At 6:34pm on December 29, 2014 Retail Theft was reported at the BP a Burglary to Auto was reported Amoco located at 825 Mannheim Road. on the 1500 block of Newcastle. 1 of 2 subjects involved was The vehicle owner reported that apprehended and charged with unknown person(s) gained entry retail theft after removing two cases to their vehicle and removed of beer from the business without approximately $3,000 in power paying.

distance is the two-second rule. As the rear bumper of the vehicle in front of you passes a stationary object, such as a light pole or sign, count off two seconds. If the front bumper of your vehicle passes the same object within the two seconds, you are too close to that vehicle. Remember that as speeds increase, the distance will be covered more quickly, and more space between the vehicles will be required. The best way to stay safe while driving during winter is to allow extra time, and slow down. Additional tips for safe driving include: Avoid distractions such as cellular telephones, reading materials, and the practice of performing personal grooming habits while driving. Make sure your vehicle is well maintained, and the tires are in good shape. If your vehicle is equipped with Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), take the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the way they work. The best way to accomplish this is to find an open area, such as a parking lot, that is wet or covered with snow.

Travel at a low to moderate speed (20-25 miles per hour) and apply the brakes as firmly as possible. You may feel a strong pulsating sensation through the brake pedal, this is normal and you should continue to apply the brakes until stopped. The benefit to Anti-Lock Brakes is the ability to steer the vehicle while braking. Practice steering your vehicle while simultaneously braking, it may help you avoid a future accident. When practicing these maneuvers, make sure the area is free from obstructions, such as light poles or other cars. Always wear your seatbelt, especially in cars equipped with air bags. The air bags in your vehicle are designed to work in unison with the seatbelt system. Not using seatbelts in an air bag equipped car could result in serious injury from the bags themselves. John M. Carpino Chief of Police If you have any specific question(s) concerning our community and related police services please feel free to send me an email at: chief@ westchesterpolice.com.

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PRESIDENT

Assessor’s Office. New owners should apply to: Cook County Assessor’s Office Continued from page 1 118 North Clark Street, Room 320 Chicago, IL 60602 on their own. The size of the litter 312.443.7550 is four to nine. A baby groundhog is You may find applications and called a kit or a cub. additional information at: www. • Punxsutawney Phil is immortal. cookcountyassessor.com Well, practically. According to folklore, the furry oracle was born 2. Senior Citizen Homestead in 1887, making him 123 years Exemption old. The average groundhog lives Seniors can save up to $250 a year in less than 10 years, making Phil a property taxes, and up to $750 when statistical anomaly … or not. Fans of combined with the Homeowner Punxsutawney Phil insist a magical Exemption. For the 2014 tax year, “elixir of life” keep Phil looking the applicant must have owned and youthful. (we could all use some) occupied the property as of January Thanks Ms. McGinley. Once a 1, 2014 and must have been 65 years teacher always a teacher!! of age or older during the year for which you are applying.

COOK COUNTY PROPERTY TAX BILLS

Cook County Property Tax Bills have either been sent by the county or will arrive shortly. In Cook County, the due date for the First Installment property taxes is always the first business day in March. A law passed by the Illinois Legislature in 2009 raises the First Installment tax from 50% to 55% of the prior year’s total tax (or 55% of the adjusted tax if an assessment certificate of error is certified by the previous November 30). I went on the Cook County website and copied this information for your convenience. Exemptions Cook County homeowners may take advantage of several valuable property-tax-saving exemptions. There are currently four exemptions that must be applied for or renewed annually: The Homeowner Exemption,Senior Citizen Homestead Exemption,Senior CitizenAssessment Freeze Exemption, and the Home Improvement Exemption. 1. Homeowner Exemption Taxpayers whose single-family home, townhouse, condominium, co-op or apartment building (up to six units) is their primary residence can save $250 to $2,000 per year, depending on local tax rates and assessment increases. First-time applicants must have been the occupants of the property as of January 1 of the tax year in question. The Cook County Assessor’s Office now automatically renews Homeowner Exemptions for properties that were not sold to new owners in the last year. In neighborhoods where assessments have increased sharply, this exemption also now can help buffer the reassessment and be worth as much as $2,000 ($20,000 in Equalized Assessed Value multiplied by the local tax rate).This program is administered by the Cook County

3. Senior Citizen Assessment Freeze Exemption Qualified senior citizens can apply for a freeze of the assessed value of their property. Over time, in many areas, this program results in taxes changing minimally and often decreasing as surrounding properties continue to rise in assessed value. This is the most valuable homeowner exemption program. The value increases over the years as it eliminates the impact of regular reassessment increases that may occur every three years. For the 2013 tax year, the applicant must have owned and occupied the home on January 1, 2012 and January 1, 2013 and have been responsible for the 2012 and 2013 taxes. 4. Home Improvement Exemption Homeowners can make up to $75,000 worth of property improvements without an increase in property taxes for at least four years.The value varies depending on the reduction of the assessed value and the tax rates where the property is located. There are also several state and city programs now available. Senior Citizen Tax Deferral The household income limit to participate in this program has increased to $55,000. This program works like a loan from the State of Illinois to qualified senior citizens, with an annual interest rate of 6%. Any portion or all (up to $5,000 per year) of the tax may be deferred until the house is sold or until the death of the taxpayer. To apply, contact the Cook County Treasurer’s Office at 312.443.5100. Disabled Veteran Homestead Exemption Administered through the Illinois Department of Veteran’s Affairs. Call 312.814.2460.

Senior Citizen Real Estate Tax Deferral Program The Senior Citizen Real Estate Tax Deferral program is a tax-relief program that works like a loan. It allows qualified seniors to defer a maximum of $5,000 per tax year (this includes 1st and 2nd installments) on their primary home. The loan from the State of Illinois is paid when the property is sold, or upon the death of the participant. To Qualify Participants must be: Homeowners who are at least 65 years of age by June 1 of the year in which the applications are made. Those whose household income is $55,000 or less. Surviving spouses of previously approved applicants who are at least 55 years of age within six months of the taxpayer’s death. Those who have owned and occupied the qualifying property for at least the last three years. Those who have fire or casualty insurance coverage for the qualifying property in an amount not less than the amount of the taxes being deferred. Those who do not owe outstanding property tax or special assessments. Those who have written approval from the spouse, if filing jointly, or Trustee, if the property is held in a qualifying Trust, to participate in the program. How do I apply? Applications are available at the Cook County Treasurer’s Office after January 1 through the March 1 application deadline. You may also access the applications by scrolling below and selecting Forms IL-1017 and IL-1018. Fill out the application completely and provide photocopies, not originals, of the required documents. You are required to return your applications to the Cook County Treasurer’s Office no later than March 1. There are no time extensions. You must apply each year you want to participate. How much will it cost? 6% simple interest per year payable upon death, or at the time the home is transferred to a new owner or sooner, if the participant chooses to pay off the senior-deferral loan. How much tax can be deferred? The maximum annual property tax deferral shall not exceed $5,000 per year. The lien fee amount for that year is not included in the $5,000 cap. For example, a taxpayer with an annual tax bill of $5,200 will only be able to defer $5,000. It will be the

taxpayer’s responsibility to pay the remaining $200 to the Cook County Treasurer’s Office. Please note that late payments are assessed a penalty of 1.5% per month until paid in full. What if there is a mortgage? Although written approval from your mortgage lender is not required in order to qualify for the program, you should advise your mortgage lender of your intention to participate in the program and confirm that your participation will not violate any terms of your mortgage agreement. The same is recommended if you have entered into a “reverse-mortgage” agreement. What if my property is in a Trust? For first time applicants, starting with the 2012 tax bills and thereafter, the only form of Trust that the property can be held in is an Illinois Land Trust with the applicant or the applicant and spouse identified as the sole beneficiary(s) of the Trust. All applicants must submit both the Trust Agreement and the Deed in Trust. The Trustee (the bank or Trust Company) and homeowner must both sign Form IL-1017. Senior citizens interested in participating with a property held in Trust should begin the application process as early as possible. What if I change my mind? The program is flexible. A homeowner may withdraw, keep the loan, pay off the loan and/or re-enter the following year. REMINDER: Last day to file is March 1 of the year the taxes otherwise would be paid. There are no time extensions. Then appropriate forms can be found on the Cook County Treasure web site at www.cookcountytreasurer. com.

FISCAL 2016 IS RAPIDLY APPROACHING Presently we are in the fourth quarter of our fiscal year. During the months of February and March, the village board, village manager, and department heads will be working diligently to prepare our budget for Fiscal Year 2016 which begins on May 1, 2015. Special sessions of the Village Board that are open to the public are being scheduled. Please check the Village website for a schedule of these special meetings. Presentations will be made by the Finance Director, Village Manager and Department Heads on each departmental budget.As you are well aware, the Village of Westchester relies on property taxes for the

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majority of the cost of running the village. Personnel costs and pension obligations are ever increasing as well as the costs of goods and services. Nobody likes paying taxes and fees on anything and we at the village really understand that. Unfortunately, taxes and fees, no matter what they are assessed on, are necessary to fund the improvements in our community. Westchester has an underground infrastructure of 54 miles of sanitary sewer pipes, 65 miles of water mains, 51 miles of storm drains and pipes, 2100 catch basins, 870 fire hydrants, and 49 miles of streets that require maintenance. Over the past 5-6 years this administration has utilized public funds to the best of our ability in addressing a portion of all of the necessary maintenance on infrastructure and utilities (most underground and unseen) through the issuance of bonds at historic low interest rates. Sales tax and places for eating tax, in conjunction with fees, fines and other revenue sources assist in keeping Westchester a “Good Place to Live and Shop.” I believe in my heart of hearts that the well oiled group of board members, administrators and staff are doing the best they can with the tools, dollars, and above all, the where with all to get the job done. At times, we are going to stumble and make decisions that frankly did not work to my, the board, or administration’s liking. I can assure you that board decisions are discussed and decided upon with the best information at the time of decision. Unfortunately, the crystal ball of the future is not in my hands. We will approach Fiscal 2016 with your best interests in mind, knowing what we want to get accomplished, and marry those intentions with the resources available, which is not small task. We will provide an article in the March newsletter explaining where your tax dollars are utilized. The detail is not available from the County as this newsletter goes to print.

WESTCHESTER POLICE REPRESENT

June 20 2014 when I hung up my ticket book in the Village of La Grange Park. It may now be a little easier to pass by LaGrange Road and Monroe Street in LP without passing me by in a squad car on Friday nights. Being a third generation police officer with a grandfather working as a military police officer for the Italian Army in Italy thwarting the use of counterfeit money, a father who rose through the ranks to Chief of Police in Westchester from 1954 to 1982, a brother Jim who commanded the detective bureau for the Broadview Police Department for 28 years, and now with two sons Joe and Steve, and two nephews Dan and Eric all wearing Chicago Police Blue you can see that there is blue in my blood. When the two officers in NYC were recently assassinated, while sitting in their squad car, it sent a shiver down my spine that will always be with me, like the Terror Attack of September 11, 2001 that killed my cousin Firefighter Tom Casoria. Officer Ramos and Officer Yu were doing their job protecting the public just like all of the police officers wearing blue or brown, with what I will call a badge of honor and courage on their chest positioned right over their heart do every day. Westchester Patrol Officers Jerry Dildine and Kristina Tountas, dressed in their pressed and polished Class A uniforms, represented the Village of Westchester by volunteering on their own time to attend the funeral of Officer Rafael Ramos in the borough of Queens, New York on December 27, 2014. The solemn ceremony and eulogy by Commissioner William Bratton of the NYPD, a copy of which I have verbatim, is truly inspiring. His statement that “The Job can reward you like no other, but one day it might demand everything in return” rings true. My compliments to the CEO, David Barger, of JET BLUE Airlines who allowed our officers and any officers throughout the United States to fly to NYC for Free. Our two officers were some of the 670 law enforcement officers who flew into NYC for the funeral of Officer Ramos for free. Thanks to our Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 21 for assisting with paying for hotel accommodations. Kudos to Chief Carpino for taking money out of his own pocket for the officers to have a dinner on him in NYC. I can honestly say I am very proud of being a member of the WPD and equally as proud of the job they do each and every day.

Speaking of positive,laudable things that have happened, I would like to share what I believe to be something we all can be proud of. You all know that since 1972, when I was 18 years old, I have worn a police uniform along with our Police Chief John M. GRANT FUNDING FROM DCEO ON Carpino. I stopped wearing one on HOLD

With the election of Governor Rauner, many decisions regarding State spending have been placed on hold. In a recent query to see where our grant money for the Green Alley grant awarded by Governor Quinn would be received, we were told that everything is on hold at this time. Governor Rauner and his staff are reviewing many of the last minute decisions Governor Quinn has made. With that being said, we will be waiting patiently for a final approval of our grant.

WESTCHESTER YOUTH RECEIVES RECOGNITION I recently had the pleasure to meet Ms. Jodie Gawthrop, one of Westchester’s teenagers, who was recently honored by the Illinois 98th General Assembly of the House of Representatives. Jodie is a member of the Civil Air Patrol, the official auxiliary of the United StatesAir Force stationed at the Chicago Executive Airport, formerly Palwaukee Airport, located in Wheeling, Illinois. Jodie received the Civil Air Patrol’s General Billy Mitchell Award in recognition of her completion of the first eight achievements of the cadet program and passing the leadership theory and aerospace topics examination. State Representative from the 59th District Carol Sente, who represents the Northeast portion of Illinois, sponsored Jodie to receive the recognition from Speaker of the House Michael Madigan and the entire House of Representatives. The General Billy Mitchell Award has existed since 1964. The award honors the late General Billy Mitchell, an aviation pioneer, advocate, and staunch supporter of an independent air force for America. Cadet program membership is available to youths from 12 to 21 years of age. Cadet Gawthrop C/2d Lt. Cap is the Public Affairs Officer for the Squadron. Congratulations,Jodie! For more volunteer information on the Civil Air Patrol Program contact: www.gocivilairpatrol.com.

NEW STATE LAWS FOR 2015 I received the following list of some of the new laws of the State of Illinois that went into effect on January 1st from my friend State Senator and Mayor of Bridgeview Steven Landek. E-CIGS Must be behind the counter or sealed to keep out of kid’s hands. Refills must be in child proof packaging. SPEED-UP 70 mph now on tollways as well as interstates. 60 mph for semis on interstates (was 55 mph). PULL-OVER No more police

ticket quotas. If stopped to a traffic violation, drive away with your license. PREGNANT WHILE WORKING Reasonable accommodationsfor pregnant workers or it’s a civil rights violation. INS & OUTS Home sellers must now disclose door or window damage along with flood damage, asbestos, lead paint and if the house was used as a meth lab. BEEK & MILK Beer rules updated to include malt ciders. Milk definition now includes sheep, water buffalo, and hooved critters. BOATS,BOOZE &FLAGS Boating while under the influence will get your boat impounded. Hoist an orange flag if boat passengers are in the water. THIS IS NOT A DRILL New school construction must include storm shelters. MEDICAL MARIJUANA FOR SEIZURES Children with seizures now qualify for CBD (not pot) in Illinois medical marijuana program. PRIVACY FOR CRIME Strengthen security and privacy for automatic system that updates victims about offenders’ parole, release. EYE IN THE SKY Cops can use drones during a natural disaster or public health emergency. CYBERBULLYLING Schools can discipline students who bully peers on personal phones or computers, not just at school. REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS Permit required for venomous or otherwise dangerous herptiles. JUST SAY NO Outlaws LSDsynthetic drugs known as N-Bomb. Keeps minors from owning Kratom plants with opiate like effects. WOLVES & COUGARS & BEARS (OH MY) Now illegal to hunt/ own/trade/gray wolves, black bears, and cougars.

PUBLIC WORKS NEEDS YOUR COOPERATION I have been asked once again to remind all Westchester Residents NOT to put their Green Garbage and Blue Recycling toters in the street. Crews had some difficulty removing snow from the street curb to curb with the cans in their way. Village

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Park District FEBRUARY 2015

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Art Teacher’s Trip to Holy Land a Lifetime of Memories Written by: Tony Quattrochi, Development Staff Member In the age of Internet, Skype, texting, and all other social media tools, it would be impossible to convince St. Joseph High School teacher Stephanie Kuecker that all of them combined could equal the enrichment of her journey this last December. In her sixth year teaching photography, videography and art, Stephanie traveled to Israel with nine other educators as part of a joint project of the Archdiocese of Chicago and the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago.

The group arrived in Tel Aviv on December 14th and spent the next seven days traveling through that city as well as Galilee, Jerusalem and other locales. Stephanie and her colleagues visited many significant organizations and landmarks, including Tel Aviv University, Israeli Museum at the Rabin Center, Peres Peace Center, Tel Aviv Museum of Art, Microsoft Members with United Nations Peacekeeper Israel, Church of the Annunciation, Ethiopian Absorption Center, Mt. Bental in Golan Heights, Mt. Beatitudes, Hand in Hand School, the Supreme Court and a visit to the Western Wall. The group returned to Chicago on December 23rd. Each of the seven full days included a meeting with an expert in a variety of fields, among them: a professor giving an overview of Israeli politics; the former Water Commissioner relating the struggle to maintain fresh water supplies; doctors at Ziv Hospital addressing the treatment of emergency patients; and a tech resource at Microsoft Israel sharing his perspective on the education of Israeli and North American students.

“I could not imagine this excursion without Stephanie,” commented Julie Welborn, Director of Ancient City of Masala near Dead Sea Catholic Identity and Mission for the Archdiocese of Chicago’s Office of Catholic Schools. “She was a tremendous addition to our group.” That group consisted of high school teachers in a variety of disciplines whose purpose was to immerse its members in the cultural, educational, political and religious climate of Israel to promote an understanding between the Catholic Church and the Jewish people. “A major goal of the experience was to provide our teachers with insights and information that they can integrate into their individual curricula in order to give our students a better understanding of the complexity regarding the creation of the modern State of Israel,” Ms. Welborn added. “Our week there was filled with many Christmas Market in Tzfat learning opportunities, with several experts in various fields leading discussions with our teachers. It is an amazing program.”

Merchant selling jam outside Golan Heights

The program, titled Modern Israel: Holy Land and Jewish State, began in 2007 and is largely funded by the Jewish United Fund and the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago. The experience in December included several meetings with area program directors as well as experts in the fields of the history and geography of Israel.

“The most rewarding parts of the trip were seeing the Peres Peace Center in Tel Aviv, visiting the Hand in Hand School in Jerusalem, and visiting Syrian patients and Israeli doctors at the Ziv Hospital near Safed,” Ms. Kuecker said. “During the trip, many political speakers gave us a thorough explanation regarding the conflict in Israel. While traveling to these three places we were able to see how even though there is fighting amongst different religions there are still organizations which are helping the injured, regardless of their background. The Hand in Hand School is one that accepts Muslim, Catholic, and Jewish students and teaches them how to live together. In each organization they are able to put their differences aside in order to acknowledge that everyone has the equal right to survive. It was rewarding to see social movement in a positive direction.

Artist discusses his work at a museum

My favorite leisure activities were floating in the Dead Sea and walking around Capernaum near the Sea of Galilee. It was so amazing to be in such historical places that Jesus was Outside of Capernaum known to live. The trip was one that could not be planned by me; it was an eye-opening experience that I hope to continue learning from into the future.”

The group arrives in Tel Aviv

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am seeing more people walking in the clear streets and not the sidewalks. This is a dangerous situation and I would hate to have an incident occur where a person was struck by a car or slipped on some ice and fell into the path of a passing car. Sidewalks are about 5 foot by 5 foot. A small path at the least would be appreciated.

were poured. The third foundation was poured the week of January 19th. The concrete needs about a week to cure. The signs, posts and bases are all ready to be installed. They will be installed around the first week of February (weather permitting)

Also remember those Postal Letter Carriers who have to deliver our mail that have to trudge through snow SNOW REMOVAL piled sidewalks and un-shoveled Snow removal is vital to safe driving. stairs leading up to your mail box. I would like to thank all of our PW employees who have done a bang SAFETY SAFAETY SAFETY At our January 13th Committee of up job clearing all of the snow and ice from our streets. The addition of the whole meeting, Chief Carpino our new calcium chloride sprayer informed the board that he had equipment has, in my opinion, received a resident request to assess helped tremendously in making our the dangerous drop off/ pick-up situation that has been occurring streets safer. To review: our main roads, SNOW at the Westchester Primary School/ ROUTES, are cleared first, followed Mary Jane Kennedy building drop by the side streets. Please be off on Fleet Street and Kensington. mindful of the alternate side parking Chief Carpino confirmed the fears restrictions on the side streets. of the parent that during the drop Please check the signs at the ends of off, certain parents were creating your block for guidance. Alleys are unsafe conditions for not only their cleared last. Crews will return back children but for others as well. to the streets to get a curb to curb Making U-turns in the intersection clearing after initial passes are done. around the crossing guard just so you Inevitably snow will end up back don’t have to drive around a block, on your driveway aprons usually as parking and stopping within the in my case just after I cleared it or crosswalk ,dropping off your child while I’m standing out there doing mid-block and not at the crosswalk, it. I am forwarding some tips to help disregarding instructions of the crossing guard, double parking etc. out this winter season. Wait until the street is cleared may not seem to be a big deal, but before removing the snow from the it is. We should not have to wait for some child, maybe yours, to get hurt driveway aprons. If you have a driveway, try not before we act to change our bad to park on the street following a driving habits. Please be mindful snowfall of two inches or more. This while driving, SAFETY SAFETY will allow the crews to clear both SAFETY should be our guide. The Chief has suggested some additional sides Do not throw/blow or put snow signage prohibiting and regulating from the driveway aprons back into the traffic during these times that the street. Shovel side to side. I’ve Police will be enforcing. found it easier to split the driveway apron in half and push half one way WESTCHESTER LEASH LAW I have received a request to remind and the other half the other way. Clear a space on the parkway to dog owners that dogs are required put your garbage and recycling cans to be on a leash and not running at large Also just a friendly reminder to instead of the street. If you have a fire hydrant on your clean up any waste left by your pet. parkway please adopt it and make sure snow is clear around it. It will WAYFINDING SIGNS UPDATE allow emergency Fire crews to hook As reported previously, the Village up in an emergency. Be a good neighbor by helping the has been working on installing wayfinding signs at seven locations in elderly with their snow removal. If you live where there is a bus the Village. The first phase includes stop or school crossing please make 4 signs. Three will include all new every effort to clear the sidewalk posts and the new sign. One sign will be banded to an existing light area where the kids have to stand. Westchester does not have an pole. At the end of December, IDOT ordinance requiring that the approved our first four sign locations. sidewalks have to be shoveled like The week of January 12, two of the other municipalities have, however I three foundations for the new signs

Triton College is one of the nation’s premier two-year institutions of higher education dedicated to student success. Located 14 miles from downtown Chicago, in River Grove, the school offers close to 100 degree and certificate programs at its 100-acre campus that features a comfortable, friendly and diverse atmosphere. More than 12,000 students enroll at Triton each year to take advantage of Triton’s small, accessible classes, qualified faculty, affordability and financial assistance. Triton College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission; member, North Central Association. www.triton.edu Triton College is in the midst of celebrating its 50th anniversary. The celebration kicked off with a cakecutting ceremony on Aug. 28, 2014, and will continue with festivities in 2015. The Triton College community invites community members to be engaged and inspired by Triton’s humble beginnings and take part in the celebration that looks forward to providing yet another 50 years of student success. Join Triton College in celebrating 50 years of excellence in education!

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code requires all refuse containers to be put at the curb line behind the curb. Please place the cans in the proper location. Additionally, please put the cans out after 3pm the day before your pick-up, and remove them before 7:00 am the following day.

TRITON COLLEGE NEWS

culminate the yearlong celebration of the institution’s 50th anniversary. The gala will recognize the history and accomplishments of Triton College as well as notable individuals who’ve contributed to the success of the institution. Individual tickets are $100 per person and will be available for purchase starting Feb. 1. Tables of 10 can currently be reserved for $1,000 by calling (708) 456-0300, Ext. 3201. Tickets price includes For more information about Triton’s 50th anniversary, call (708) 456-0300, Ext. 3201, or visit www.triton.edu/50thAnniversary. Also, you can interact them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ OfficialTritonCollege! “A History of Success, a Vision for the Future”

TRITON COLLEGE PERFORMING ARTS

For all you residents who would like to get on stage and “break a leg.” The Triton College Performing Arts Department is holding auditions for the production “Lend Me a Tenor” from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday through Thursday, Feb. 10-12, in Cox Auditorium (Room J-108) of the Fine Arts Building on Triton’s River Grove campus, with callbacks scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 14. The auditions are open to the Triton community as well as community members. Director Kurt Naebig is looking for a diverse group of actors to fill eight roles, some parts include singing: Character Description Max* Male. Late 20s to mid-30s. Maggie GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY ALUMNI Female. Mid-20s to early 30s. CELEBRATION Saunders Male. 6:30 to 9 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. Late 40s to mid-60s. 25, Student Center Cafeteria, Triton Tito Merelli* Male. College, 2000 Fifth Ave., River Grove Early 40s to mid-60s. Maria The first graduating class of Triton Female. Mid-30s to late 40s. College, as well as milestone years, Bellhop* Male. will be recognized and honored Early 20s to mid-30s. during this semi-formal cocktail Diana reception that will include the Female. Early 30s to late 40s. unveiling of the Triton College Julia Alumni Wall of Fame, featuring select Female. Mid-40s to early 70s. Triton College graduates and displays *These characters require singing of historical videos and memorabilia. opera. Operatic training is not Hors d’oeuvres and entertainment required of actors; they are, however, will be provided and a cash bar will expected to sing loudly and carry a be available. Admission is free. tune. Those who audition are asked to prepare one comedic monologue 6 p.m., Saturday, April 25, Donald E. that is about one-and-a-half minutes Stephens Convention Center, 9291 in length, as well as bring a photo or Bryn Mawr Ave., Rosemont headshot of one’s self and a resume Triton College is pleased to host See PRESIDENT, page 21 a special Black Tie Optional Gala to

BLACK TIE OPTIONAL GALA

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of their performance experience. Actors are expected to be available for seven performances from May 1-10, 2015. Written by Ken Ludwig,“Lend Me a Tenor”is a comedy with some singing that takes place in September of 1934. Saunders, the general manager of the Cleveland Grand Opera Company, is primed to welcome the world famous Tito Morelli, Il Stupendo, the greatest tenor of his generation, to appear for one night only as Otello. Through a hilarious series of mishaps, the star is drugged, the theater manager panics, identities are switched and eventually two Otellos are running around in costume and two women are running around in lingerie! A sensation on Broadway, this awardwinning, screwball comedy has been hailed as “hilariously over the top” (The Manchester Guardian) and “screamingly funny!” (CBS Radio) To schedule an audition appointment or for more information, contact Amy Fenton at amyfenton@triton.edu. Triton College is located at 2000 Fifth Ave., River Grove. ILLINOIS LEGISLATIVE PRAYER CAUCUS I have been asked to invite all residents to an event at the Illinois State Capital. The Illinois Legislative Prayer Caucus invites you to join them for ‘Call To Prayer Day’, an historic event to call leaders and citizens to stand for our JudeoChristian heritage and to pray for Illinois and the nation. Hosted by the: ILLINOIS LEGISLATIVE PRAYER CAUCUS Senator Sam McCann – Chairman Senator Tim Bivens Senator William Haine Senator Dale Righter Senator James Clayborne, Jr. Representative Linda Chalpa La Via ILLINOIS CALL TO PRAYER DAY Thursday, February 5th, 2015 11:00 - 11:45 a.m. CST State Capitol Rotunda

State Capitol for three purposes: Support the formation of the official Illinois Legislative Prayer Caucus, a bi-partisan group of state legislators united to defend America’s right to trust in God. Sign the Call to Prayer Proclamation. (See Congressional Proclamation) Re-affirm our national motto, In God We Trust.

FEBRUARY IS NATIONAL CANCER PREVENTION MONTH If your New Year’s fervor to get healthy is already losing steam, February -National Cancer Prevention Month – is a great time to give yourself a second chance. American Institute for Cancer Research’s three Guidelines for Cancer Prevention can help you focus on what’s most important. Choose mostly plant foods, limit red meat and avoid processed meat. Be physically active every day in any way for 30 minutes or more. Aim to be a healthy weight throughout life. Notice anything about them? Like, for example, how closely the advice for cutting cancer risk resembles advice for preventing other chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes – not to mention for getting in shape? It’s true: these simple steps offer many different health benefits, and National Cancer Prevention Month is as good a time as any to start putting them into action. FEBRUARY HOLIDAYS I almost forgot an important day that for guys like me will keep us from sleeping on the couch or heaven forbid outside in our car. Yes guys you know it VALENTINES DAY. That little Hallmark Holiday that can make or break you. Regardless if your wife or significant other gave up chocolate for her New Year’s Resolution. Break down and get a box. Frango Mints or Turtles will do.

Flowers, yea, flowers will also put you ahead of the 8 ball. I know I have written in past years about the different colors of Roses and what they mean, but Ill refresh your memory. Red: Love and Romance Red roses are the traditional symbol for love, romance, and will always be a way to say “I love you.” The red The Illinois Legislative Prayer rose has also reflected beauty and Caucus is patterned after the perfection. Deep or dark red roses bicameral Congressional Prayer can reveal an unconscious beauty. Yellow: Friendship, Joy, Get Well Caucus, an official caucus of the U.S. Throughout history, yellow has Congress that consists of over 100 been closely associated with the Members. sun, making these roses excellent Elected leaders and citizens from for cheering people up.Yellow roses all over the state will gather at the send a message of appreciation and

platonic love without the romantic subtext of other colors. The color represents feelings of joy and delight. Lavender: Enchantment, Majesty, Love at First Sight The color purple has a traditional association with royalty. In this regard, shades of lavender roses suggest an air of regal majesty and splendor. Pink: Love, Gratitude, Appreciation Pink carries with it the connotation of grace and elegance, as well as sweetness and poetic romance. Dark pink roses are symbolic of gratitude and appreciation, and are a traditional way to say thanks. Light pink roses are associated with gentleness and admiration, and can also be used as an expression of sympathy. White: Purity, Innocence, Sympathy, Spirituality Early tradition used white roses as a symbol for true love, an association which would later become the hallmark of the red rose. Also known as the bridal rose, the white rose is a traditional wedding flower. In this sense, white represents unity, virtue, and the pureness of a new love.White roses are also associated with honor and reverence, which makes them a fitting memorial for a departed loved one. Maybe a little dinner date at HER favorite place not yours, a movie of HER liking and not an action flick, an open car door, a massage at a SPA place instead of your 30 second shoulder rub. These are just a few tips that just might work for you. Sam

FROM THE BOARD At the January 13th Village Board Meeting, the following items were approved under the Consent Agenda: Approval of the Record of Bills ending 01-08-2015 in the amount not to exceed $1,381,242.69 Approval of Minutes of the December 16, 2014 Village Board

Meeting and the minutes of the December 16, 2014 Committee of the Whole Meeting Approval of Departmental Monthly Reports Community Development Department Fire Department Police Department Public Works Department An Ordinance amending Section 18.58.050 and Section 18.58.070 of the Westchester Municipal Code to Permit Off-Site LED Advertisement/ Billboard Signs within the Village of Westchester An Ordinance approving an Amendment to a Site Plan Approved Pursuant to the Village of Westchester Ordinance No. 13-2027 to Allow the Construction of an Electronic LED Billboard at 701 – 825 Mannheim Road in the Village of Westchester, Illinois An Ordinance Amending Section 8.12.030, Entitled “Inspections,” of Chapter 8.12, Entitled “Food Service Sanitation Code, “of Title 8, Entitled, “Health and Sanitation,” of the Westchester Municipal Code An Ordinance Waiving Competitive Bidding Requirements and Authorizing the Execution of an Agreement between the Village of Westchester and L.E.H.P. Management, Inc. An Ordinance Waiving the Requirements of the Village of Westchester Purchasing Policies and Procedures Manual and Ratifying the Execution of a Professional Services Agreement Between the Village of Westchester and Stanley Consultants, Inc. At the January 13th Village Committee of the Whole, the following items was discussed under New Business: Amendment to Municipal Code Chapter 11.20 Entitled “One Way Streets” Reduction of Class A Liquor Licenses Donation Box Annual License Fees Proposed Revision to Newsletter Policy

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