June 2016 Village of Westchester Newsletter by Village of Westchester, IL

Village of

Westchester JUNE 2016 Newsletter

From the Desk of The President POLICE DEPARTMENT

FIRE DEPARTMENT

CALENDAR

PARK DISTRICT

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LIBRARY

SCHOOL DISTRICT

WATER QUALITY REPORT

Fireﬁghter Tom Botka retired from the Westchester Fire Department on May 7th after 27 years of dedicated service. He was honored at the May 24th Village Board meeting. On hand to show their support were (from left): Fire Chief Jim Adams, FF Dan Perzyna, Capt. Sean Casey, FF Sean O’Connor, FF Tom Botka, FF Matt Heiderman, FF Mark Wandtke, Lt. Travis Spiropoulos, and FF Matt Martin. Best wishes, Tom and Thank You!

As I began writing this article the outside temperature was 82 degrees and certainly feels like Summer. Wondering what kind of summer we are going to have this year, I consulted the “Farmer’s Almanac 2016 Outlook.” Summer officially arrives on Monday, June 20th, at 5:34pm CST in Chicago, with the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year in terms of daylight. The article continues under the headline “SUMMER, Stormy Sizzler Ahead” that can only mean hot and wet conditions are on tap. Their predictions go on to say: “Don’t be surprised if the song “Stormy Weather” gets stuck in your head as we greet the summer season. According to the long-range weather outlook from the pages of the Farmers’Almanac, there will be a greater-than-normal coverage of thunderstorms, which unfortunately will be strong, particularly over the eastern third of the nation. During June and July over “tornado alley” in the middle part of the country, some widespread tornadic activity is possible.” For those of us who lived through the July 2010 and April 2013 storm events, that statement is not very comforting.

MAYFAIR RESERVOIR IMPROVEMENTS COMPLETED By the time of this newsletter gets delivered, the Mayfair Reservoir Expansion Project, including the additional Carlisle Street pipe that was installed last December, and the additional larger piping installed on Buckingham, Downing and Kensington storm sewers should be completed. Hopefully these improvements, at a cost of $2.5 million dollars, will keep Mother Nature at bay and protect the properties of all those affected in the past. Our engineering company V3 is working on preparing the Letter of Map Amendment to see if FEMA will remove properties out of the flood plain. Should our work qualify, the flood insurance premium requirement on mortgages in that area could be eliminated. It is highly recommended that some level of insurance be kept. A resource for coverage can be found at www.floodsmart. gov.

ADDISON CREEK UPDATE On May 13, 2016, I received an update from

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Pictures

Police Department JUNE

2016

Summer is an important time for bike safety FROM THE DESK OF THE CHIEF OF POLICE – Steven L. Stelter As most people’s favorite time of year approaches the children will be getting out of school, soccer and baseball will be in full swing and I am sure the kids are hoping for many days that they can spend at the swimming pool. The Police Department wants to make sure that we make this a safe and happy summer for everyone. This is a very popular time of the year for bicycle riding. Bike riding is a fun way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. When riding your bike, it is very important to obey all the street signs and traffic laws and to wear a bicycle helmet to protect yourself in case of an accident or “wipeout.” As you are riding your bike, please be aware of motorists on the roadway. Young bicyclists are encouraged to ride on the sidewalks whenever possible. I would like to share some bicycle safety tips with you; parents please share these with your children: Obey street signs and traffic lights • Never ride between cars • Stay off busy streets • Follow the rules of the road when riding your bike • Never carry riders on your bike • Stay alert of unexpected obstacles

• Watch for cars backing out of driveways or driving through alleys • Always wear a bicycle helmet I also want to thank all those who came out to this year’s Westchester Police Department Open House on May 21st . We were able to have our guests tour the police department, handle some of our officers “tools of the trade” with a great static display. Our emergency dispatch center “NORCOMM” had representatives present as well as the Secretary of State’s Office, Proviso Township Mental Health associates, Illinois Attorney General’s Office, Age Options and Westchester’s Masonic Lodge #995. We hope to see everyone again next year!!!! The Westchester Police Department realizes the importance of partnering with the citizens to insure we can provide the best services possible. The men and women are extremely dedicated to protecting those within our community. I would like to congratulate the following officers for their particular work anniversaries this month: Records Clerk, Lynda Senerius 13 years of service on June 1st Officer Jeffrey Battaglia - 6 years of service on June 25th Officer Michael Fellers - 5 years of service on June 24th

Police blotter 1) At 8:58am on April 24, 2016 a Theft from Garage was reported on the 2500 block of Hawthorne. The resident reported that unknown person(s) took a camera valued at $350.00 from the garage. 2) At 8:28am on April 27, 2016 a Damage to Property report was taken at Cermak and Boeger Ave. It was discovered that an unknown object caused damage to the PACE bus shelter causing $300 in damage. 3) At 10:06am on May 1, 2016 a Burglary was reported on the 700 block of Cromwell. The homeowner reported that unknown person(s) made forced entry through a basement window and took jewelry and a laptop. UPDATE: After a thorough investigation by detectives, a subject was apprehended and charged with burglary. 4) At 9:24am on May 6, 2016 a

Criminal Damage to Property was reported on the 9900 block of Derby Lane. The property manager of the building reported that unknown person(s) kicked in the front glass door, damaging the door. 5) At 10:50am on May 6, 2016 a Theft was reported on the 1400 block of Heidorn. The resident reported that unknown person(s) removed a package that was previously delivered by UPS. 6) At 11:13am on May 6, 2016 a Burglary to Auto was reported on the 2100 block of Newcastle. The vehicle owner reported that unknown person(s) forcefully gained entry into the vehicle and removed miscellaneous items. 7) At 4:57pm on May 14, 2016 a Retail Theft was reported at the Goodwill at 3054 Wolf Road. A 71 year old female was arrested after removing merchandise from the store without paying.

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been busy working to modernize equipment throughout our service area. Westchester is considered to be Continued from page 1 in the Maywood service area. One of the presentations that I will always the Director of Engineering from remember was viewing a video of a the Metropolitan Water Reclamation downed power line that had fallen District (MWRD) stating “MWRD is across a wooden fence,a cyclone chain currently in the final engineering link fence and a swing set in Arlington design for a flood control project that Heights. Firefighters were standing includes channel improvements along just outside the chain link fence when Addison Creek. MWRD has hired Hey the flash of power traversed across and Associates, Inc. to assist with this the ground in a perpendicular manner. effort, and are working with their The video showed how electricity surveyor. Terra Engineering, LTD will from these lines is so very dangerous be performing field reconnaissance and can travel along the ground and work along Addison Creek in electrocute you.They drove home the Northlake, Stone Park, Melrose Park, message to all of us in attendance to Bellwood,Westchester, and Broadview. keep your distance from any downed The purpose of this field survey is power line and that 1/10th OF AN to collect and analyze data for a final AMP CAN STOP YOUR HEART! design of the subject property to As an elected official I felt the address flooding problems identified speakers and informational displays along Addison Creek. In order to were very helpful in answering gather information, field crews may questions regarding outages. I am need to access your property for less including some information that you than one-hour between the hours of may find helpful. 8am and 4pm, sometime during the Outage Alerts next few months. You can receive outage alerts on You will NOT have to let surveyors your mobile phone by subscribing into your home or business. The to the Outage Alert program. You will information they need to collect is receive text messages that alert you of outdoors. You will not need to do estimated restoration times and other anything unless the surveyors require important outage information affecting access through a fenced-in yard or your ComEd service. Please note that require that an animal be secured. ComEd does not charge customers Again, these field crews expect to be for this notification. Message and data on your property less than an hour to rates may apply. Up to 21 outage alert collect the necessary information. messages are allowed per week. Upon receipt of the letter, I contacted MWRD and was told that Be Aware of the Powerlines Where negotiations are continuing regarding You Live and Work the construction of a 600 foot-acre Always assume powerlines are live. reservoir in the Village of Bellwood This applies to powerlines on utility in the vicinity of Washington Blvd. poles as well as those entering your and 25th Avenue. An eminent domain home or buildings. Even momentary action has also been filed with the contact can injure or kill. Always court should negotiations fall through. keep yourself, your equipment, and Soil and boring tests are being taken anything you carry at least 10 feet from and are being analyzed. Unfortunately, powerlines. If using a crane or derrick the projected timeline to begin is Fall in construction, you may be required of 2017. to maintain 20 feet of clearance or As always, please contact the greater. Consult www.osha.gov for police department to check on any requirements. Even though you may suspicious persons or activities in your notice a covering on a line, NEVER neighborhood. assume it is safe to touch. Stay Away. Stay Alive.

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feet from power lines. If using a crane Tune In and Take Cover or derrick in construction maintain a In putting safety first, tune into clearance of 20 feet from power lines. news broadcasts and take cover if Consult www.osha.gov for clearances necessary. for all voltages. Be Aware of Outside Powerlines Fallen Powerlines If outside, be watchful for trees and Keep yourself and others away from downed powerlines — especially in any fallen powerlines.You never know the dark — and report emergencies when they might be live. Call ComEd to ComEd as soon as possible at right away and report the location of 1-800-Edison-1. Do not touch or try the downed wires. If a line falls on your to move downed lines and consider car, stay in your car. If you must get out all downed lines as energized and of the car, jump clear, do not touch any extremely dangerous. If powerlines part of your car and the ground at the fall on your vehicle while in it, stay in same time and stay clear of the fallen the car until emergency personnel can line. assist.The car can become energized. Trees Near Powerlines Do not climb or trim trees near powerlines and keep children from doing the same. Hire a qualified contractor to trim trees near powerlines. Contact ComEd if you have any questions about removing limbs or trees near powerlines. Digging You are required by law to call 811 to locate gas, electric, and telephone lines before you dig. Whether you are planting a tree, building a fence or laying foundation, contacting a line with a shovel or pick can damage powerlines — and injure or kill. Working Near Powerlines Contact ComEd if you are conducting any work or activity that may bring yourself, your equipment, and anything you carry within ten feet of a powerline.

Stay Safe When a Storm Hits or an Outage Occurs Wind, lightning, heavy rains, flooding and other severe weather conditions can cause damage to utility facilities and disrupt electric service.With personnel available 24 hours a day, everyday, ComEd is committed to keeping the lights on and making every effort to restore power quickly when the lights go out.We track weather forecasts and plan strategies to mobilize staff and materials in response to storms. This includes assessing equipment damage COMED IS READY across the region, dispatching crews I, along with IT Manager Greg Ladders to make repairs, and handling more Hribal, attended ComEd’s “Power of Never stand ladders near powerlines. customer calls. Preparedness Event” at McDonald’s When working on or near ladders, Hamburger University in Oak Brook on keep all tools, the ladder, and anything Report an Outage Thursday, May 18, 2016.The event was you carry well away (at least 10 feet) We hope you will promptly report an emceed by Ms. Cheryl Maltevich, the from powerlines. outage in your area by phone or online. Vice President of Distribution System While we understand most consumers Operations. Several presenters spoke High Reach Equipment would prefer to speak with a customer about topics related to responding Keep all cranes, scaffolding and high service representative, our automated to utility emergencies, system reach equipment away from power interactive system allows us to handle improvements of strengthening the lines. Contact with a power line can thousands of calls at a time, collect system, preparation for the storm, cause serious burns or electrocution. customers’ outage information faster, activating for the storm, and of course Remember to work a safe distance group nearby outages together, and what I spoke about earlier, the 2016 from all power lines. When working help operations personnel analyze summer forecast. in proximity to power lines keep trouble. Over the past few years ComEd has yourself and equipment at least 10

Stay Out of Flooded Basements Never step into a flooded basement if water may be in contact with electrical outlets, appliances or cords and never attempt to turn off power at the breaker box if you must stand in water to do so. Be aware of any electrical equipment that could be energized and in contact with water. Never wade into a flooded basement unless all electricity has been disconnected (such as power that supplies sump pumps, freezers, etc.). Power may be restored while you are in the flooded basement and the motors on these appliances may be submerged. Do Not Touch Wet Electrical Appliances Never touch electrical appliances, cords or wires while you are wet or standing in water. Never use electric appliances or touch electric wires, switches or fuses when you’re wet or when you’re standing in water. If an electrical appliance has been in contact with the water, have a professional check it out before it is used. It may need to be repaired or replaced. Since we are in the ComEd territory for service and saving money by conserving power this summer is a goal all of us should be looking into I would suggest you go to ComEd’s web site www.comed.com and look for ways to decrease your usage. I recall my dad telling us kids “every time you turn on a light switch it cost 5 cents”. Back then I guess that was his way to teach us to conserve power costs. There are many ways on their web site to save money by using Energy Star products available at many hardware and home centers.

VILLAGE BOARD REJECTS CELL TOWER At our May 10, 2016 meeting, the Westchester Village Board and residents in attendance had a chance to hear an appeal from Verizon’s attorney regarding the Plan Commission and

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Zoning Board of Appeal’s denial of a Special Use Permit to construct a cell tower at Mayfair Park. The appeal to the elected village board is necessary as both the Plan Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals have recommending responsibility only. Regardless of the topic, all decisions by them need to be voted on by the elected village board before it becomes law. Back in October 2009,the thenVillage Board approved the construction of a cell tower at Mayfair Park. Back then there were no negative comments regarding the placement of a stealth flag pole cell tower similar to what had been constructed in the Community Park in 2006. The difference was in location. The flag pole tower was to be constructed adjacent to the south parking lot of Mayfair Park near the MWRD pump station. The area is considered flood plain, however, I do not recall any further discussion after the October 2009 approval. What I do recall was that the company, Clearwire, had merged with another carrier and the tower may not have been needed.

attached. Ultimately, the Village Board voted to reject the appeal by the petitioner and voted to adopt the findings and recommendations of the Plan Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals to deny the petitioner’s application.The Village Board decision can be appealed to the Federal Courts within 30 days of the formal letter by our Attorney, which was mailed to petitioner on May 12, 2016. If a suit is filed against the Village, you will be one of the first to know.

LEAD WATER TESTING

At our May 10th Committee of the Whole meeting, I mentioned I had been in contact with Mr. Thomas Poy from the USEPA Region 5,regarding the Flint Michigan Water Crisis. Since Flint, I have gathered and read many reports and articles regarding the topic and have done just as much investigation as I have done regarding the cell tower mentioned above. As a Co-Director of the Broadview-Westchester Joint Water Agency (BWJWA) whose responsibility is to supply potable drinking water to Broadview, Westchester, Loyola Hospital, Hines Hospital, and the Madden Mental Health Center, I, along with Broadview Mayor Sherman Since 2009 much more information Jones, want to be on top of this issue has been made available about and not behind it. Public safety cell towers, where they are placed concerns are paramount. Perceptions in close proximity to schools and become reality.The topic of lead pipes parks, and residential property have conveying drinking water has reached been challenged from coast to coast. the U.S. Congress, the USEPA, IEPA, and Technology has advanced more than down to all levels of local government. anyone could have imagined since the State Senator Richard Durbin and passage of the Telecommunications Congresswoman Cheri Bustos of Act of 1996. I’m sure we are in for Northern Illinois have taken the lead many more technological advances on in Illinois to confront what may be a serious health concern. the horizon 5-10 years from now.

that there has been an identifiable problem. A recent Chicago Tribune Watchdog Report written by Michael Hawthone and Jennifer Smith Richards contained in the Sunday May 15th issue highlighted the fact that “Water tests reveal high levels across state.” Tests recorded in 2014 for Berwyn, Forest View, Broadview, and Calumet City in Cook County were higher than the 90th percentile of readings exceeding the standard of 15ppb (parts per billion). A water system is NOT required to take action unless at least 10% of the samples taken exceed 15 parts per billion. In reviewing our test locations, I learned there has been no testing west of Wolf Road. I imagine this has occurred because since most, if not all, of the construction done after 1986 was done in copper piping and not lead. I get it, however, if the proper sodder was not used in the connections there could be a problem. The test is called LEAD/COPPER, my guess for a reason.

TIRES Firefighter Tom Botka retired on May 7th. At our May 24th Board Meeting, Firefighter Botka, a 27 year member of the Westchester Fire Department was honored for his dedicated service to the Village. FF Botka was praised by Fire Chief Jim Adams for his service, leadership, and his tenure mentoring young firefighters as a training officer, not only in Westchester, but at the Monroe, Wisconsin Fire Academy. Chief Adams worked alongside Tom through their careers. Present at the retirement were many members of the fire department and Tom’s family. Best wishes on your retirement, Tom! (See more on Fire Page)

CELEBRATE OUR FLAG AND OUR NATION

On August 3, 1949, Congress designated June 14th of each year as “Flag Day” to commemorate the adoption of our flag. Our beautiful flag is one of our greatest symbols and represents the blood, sweat, and tears shed in the formation of our great country. Years later, on June 9, 1966, Congress established the I have asked the Village Board to week in which June 14th occurs as consider a total revamp of the Village “National Flag Week” and requested testing procedure to include all existing that the President annually issue a public and private schools, park proclamation calling upon citizens of district sites and day care centers, as the United States to display the U.S. flag well as a fair representation of samples during that week. I encourage each of taken from the already identified you to proudly display our flag each police patrol sections (zones); Zone #1 and every day, but especially during being north of Roosevelt, Mannheim the week of June 12th to June 18th. to Gardner Rd.; Zone #2 South of National Flag Week is a time when Roosevelt, Mannheim to Gardner Rd.; Americans reflect on the foundations Zone#3 South of Cermak,to 31st Street, of the nation’s freedom. The flag of Wolf to Belleview; ZONE #4 Roosevelt the United States represents freedom to Cermak, Mannheim to Heidorn; and and has been an enduring symbol Zone #5 Cermak to 31St Street, I294 to of the country’s ideals since its early Wolf Rd. Sufficient samples are to be days. During both events, Americans also remember their loyalty to the taken that represent the entire Zone. nation, reaffirm their belief in liberty I provided both the Village Board and For those of you who were not in in attendance, I authored and read the BWJWA Board a letter written by It is my belief having this and justice, and observe the nation’s a 10 page report with 14 exhibits IEPA Director Lisa Bonnett requiring comprehensive test program in place unity. Please fly your flag proudly on sampling instructions will give piece of mind to those June 14th. that I believed, after doing my own improved In celebration of America’s national independent investigation, supported and educational materials. During drinking Lake Michigan water. In a denial of the petition to construct a my meetings with the village water speaking to Mr. Poy the IEPA would flag and everything it represents, we cell tower at the Mayfair Park location. operator, I asked to see a map have to be contacted and accept the will be holding a special ceremony on Saturday, June 11th at 2:00 p.m. The My belief is based on the fact that indicating where we presently take new site locations. program, presented by veterans from we have not seen, even when asked, samples and the number of samples the engineering report indicating the taken throughout the Village. By law, The tests cost through Suburban Labs Westchester American Legion Col.A. L. “Dead Zone”; we were provided only water samples are taken each year. in Geneva, Illinois for Municipalities is Brodie Post 1437 and Boy Scouts from a coverage map of what area would be The samples taken for lead content are $20 per test. If we double our testing Troop 1, will include the raising of the improved by installing the cell tower in only tested every 3 years. The six page from 30 to 60 would increase the cost national flag, recitation of the Pledge Mayfair Park.As I mentioned at ourApril Water Quality Report is presented in to the village from $600 to $1200. I of Allegiance, singing of the national 24, 2016 Village Board meeting, I asked this newsletter. think we can afford this each and anthem, and a playing of patriotic music. In keeping with our National Verizon to consider the exploration every year. Flag Code, which states “When a flag Our last required lead test sample of using “small cell technology” that may address the “Dead Zone” area of was taken in June 2014, meaning June What amazes me more is that the is so tattered that it no longer fits to the village, like they have installed in 2017 is our next IEPA required test City of Chicago with the most lead serve as a symbol of the United States, the St. Louis area. Without going into sample unless the Congress/EPA,IEPA service lines of any US municipality it should be destroyed in a dignified my complete report, neighboring decide otherwise as there is a national only tests 50 homes every 3 years, per manner, preferably by burning,” we will also be retiring several flags. If you communities are investigating the use conversation going on. I don’t know the article. have a flag that is no longer suitable of existing telephone poles to attach about you, but I firmly believe that antenna transmitters instead of 85- lead testing should be incorporated See PRESIDENT, page 11 120 foot towers with several antennas in the yearly test cycle, especially now FIREFIGHTER THOMAS BOTKA RE-

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for display, you can bring it with you to the ceremony. Please join me and other representatives of our village, the boy scouts, and our veterans at the Memorial Fountain on the northeast corner of Mannheim and Cermak Roads for this wonderful event.

featuring “Rookie of the Year.” Movie starts at dusk – be there by 8. Soda and popcorn will be available for purchase from the Park District. Grab your lawn chair or a blanket and come join the fun!

VILLAGE RECEIVES GREEN QUALITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

I was honored to accept this year’s Green Quality Achievement Award from the West Cook County Solid Waste Agency. The award was presented during the West Cook County Solid Waste Agency Board of Tuesday June 14th is also the day Director’s Meeting on April 27th. Ii the United States Army celebrates its’ accepted the award on behalf of the Village and gave special mention to birthday. Happy Birthday,ARMY! Trustees Calcagno and Celestino and MOVIE IN THE PARK Management Assistant Jessica Spencer The Village is kicking off its special for their efforts in our sustainability event season on Thursday, June 16th and recycling programs. with a Movie in the Park. We will be

SENIOR HOUSING UPDATE St. Joseph H.S. and Michael’s Development Corporation will be making a presentation at our June 14, 2016 Village Committee of the Whole Meeting regarding the proposed retrofitting of the old St. Joseph H.S to a Senior Housing Development. The Board Meeting starts at 7pm.

TRUCK-TRAILER PARKING RESTRICTIONS

At our May 24,2016 Committee of the Whole Meeting, Police Chief Steven Stelter made a recommendation to reinstitute language to Municipal Code section 11.32.050 dealing with truck and trailer parking on Village streets. The Village and Police IN HOUSE PAVING Department had received complaints Our Public Works Department regarding the parking of trucks and has begun grinding several streets trailers from residents. A review of consistent with our in-house paving our ordinances revealed a prior Code project. PW staff have selected the update had omitted what was once a west half of Sunnyside, and the parking long standing ordinance in the Village. lanes of Buckingham, Downing, The original Code language of “No and Kensington Ave. for paving this person, firm or corporation shall park summer. We have again rented the any truck, truck tractor or trailer on grinding machine at a cost of $10k per any street in the Village at any time on week. PW had budgeted monies to Sundays, or between the hours of 7pm spread about 2500 tons of asphalt this See PRESIDENT, page 14 summer.

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Although the month of May is considered Motorcycle Safety month, TREE TRIMMING CONTRACT BID ACmotorcycle safety should be something Continued from page 11 CEPTED we are constantly aware of. In Illinois, At our May 24, 2016 Committee of there was a 24% rise in motorcycle and 7am on any other day, except for the Whole meeting, Public Works deaths in 2015 from 2014. Motorcycle the purpose of making a commercial Director Robert Lewis presented the deaths spiked 10% across the United delivery or making a service call.” Ord. bid results for tree trimming service. States last year measuring 5010 for the 64-688 S2, 1964: Ord. 56-511 S5.05, Winkler Tree Service was the low and first time since 2008. Presently, Illinois, 1956) was proposed to be reinstated successful bidder for tree trimming New Hampshire, and Iowa do not have in the Code.The change will be voted services. The 3 year contract for tree any helmet laws in place that safety on formally at our June 14, 2016 Board trimming, removals and stumping is experts contend could contribute to Meeting. $322,467. The vote approving the the increasing number of motorcycle contract will occur at our June 14th fatalities. As a motorcyclist in my youth, board meeting. I learned early that you have to be POLICE DEPARTMENT PURCHASE extremely careful riding a motorcycle. Chief Stelter, during the budget COMMUNITY CRIME CAMERA PARTEven if you have the right of way, when process, requested the purchase of 2 NERSHIP a car or truck hits a smaller 2 wheeled Chief Stelter requested consideration object you will usually be the loser. police squad cars, one marked line car and the other an unmarked detective to embark on a program that several I remember having to take evasive vehicle. The vehicles are needed to other communities have in place to be action when a car turned in front of replace high mileage squads presently able to access private camera images. me on Rt. 83, and over the handlebars being driven. One of the vehicles The voluntary program will allow all I went. Thank God I had the sense to will be financed through our master citizens with private security cameras wear my red metal flake helmet with lease agreement through PNC Bank, to share images with the police to assist bubble face shield. The bumps, bruises, the other will be purchased outright in police investigations. Chief Stelter and scrapes healed but a cracked from monies collected under our drug reiterated this is a voluntary program melon probably would not. Cars and forfeiture fund. Chief Stelter was given where private cameras may aid in trucks need to be ever vigilant too. I the detection and apprehension of saw many a sign and bumper sticker approval to make the purchases. criminal activity in our neighborhoods. recently that said “START SEEING Several other communities have MOTORCYCLES.” There are far too PUBLIC WORKS PURCHASE embarked in a similar program with many distractions while driving these During our budget process, the successful outcomes. If you would like days. The phrase “WATCH OUT FOR public works department requested to register in the program, the program THE OTHER GUY” has never been the replacement of 2 pieces of registration form is available on the more valid than it is today. The Rules equipment that have exceeded their police page of the Village’s website or of the Road apply to all motor vehicles life expectancy. We will be purchasing contact Officer Rob Verber at rverber@ and motorcycles. For a review of the a new crack filling machine. The old westchesterpolice.com. rules visit the Illinois Secretary of State machine has frequently broken down web site at www.cyberdrive.com. and has been out of service. The new ADDRESS NUMBERS REQUIRED During our Municipal Code update crack filling machine will improve the maintenance component of our street a requirement was put into place SAFETY…SAFETY…SAFETY School is going to be out for the maintenance program. Filling cracks requiring homeowners residing in along the curb line, center line, and the Village to have visible address summer break in a few days. Kids and horizontally prevents water infiltration, numbers plainly visible on their families will be out in force on our especially during the winter months homes. The requirement has been streets and parks. That means more when we have to contend with the extended to those residents who bicycle riding, jogging, dog walkers freeze-thaw cycle causing the roadway have detached garages adjacent to and people out on our streets and to deteriorate and cause pot holes. alleys to have address numbers on sidewalks. As the topic suggests, your The cost for the machine is $56K. A them. Many times when police are safety is our prime concern. new tandem dump truck with V-Box responding to emergency calls, they The Secretary of State does have a snow spreader, and plow blade was have encountered homes where The booklet available at www.cyberdrive. budgeted to replace one of our older numbers have been missing. dump trucks. The cost of the unit with addition to the code for the additional com that has the rules of the road that accessories is approximately $150k. alley numbering will allow emergency bicyclists are required to adhere to. The lease calls for an amortization personnel to identify the correct Riding with the flow of traffic,stopping location of a reported while in an at stop signs, and obeying the “Rules schedule of 5-7 years. of The Road” for bicyclists will let you alley. 2016 STREET RECONSTRUCTION arrive safely at your destination. On The Public Works Department has The Code requires that garages must most roadways, bicyclists (including reviewed our street replacement have address numbers placed in a those on electric bikes) have the program and decided to replace position to be plainly legible and visible same rights and responsibilities as several streets in the N/E section of from the alley fronting the property. other roadway users. The following the Village. Christopher B. Burke These numbers shall contrast with are important laws and safety tips Engineering LLC was awarded a design their background. Address numbers regarding bicyclists: and engineering services contract in shall be Arabic numerals or alphabet • Bicyclists are prohibited on the amount of $94K. The streets that letters. Numbers shall be a minimum limited-access highways, expressways are scheduled to be replaced curb to of 4 inches (102 mm) in height with and certain other marked roadways. curb are: Suffolk Ave (Wedgewood a minimum stroke width of 0.5 Bicyclists are required to travel in to Gladstone); Bristol ( Wedgewood inch (12.7 mm). Thank you for your the same direction as vehicles. to Roosevelt); Kitchner (Westchester compliance with this Code provision. • Bicyclists should travel just Blvd to Suffolk Ave); Municipal Drive to the right of faster moving traffic. MOTORCYCLE AWARENESS (Roosevelt Road to the Catch Basins However, certain hazards such as south of the railroad tracks).

rough surfaces, debris, drainage grates or a narrow traffic lane may require bike riders to move toward the center of the lane. • Drivers must yield the right-ofway to a bicyclist just as they would to another vehicle. • When passing a bicyclist, motorists must do so slowly and leave at least three feet of passing space. • Crowding or threatening a bicyclist is prohibited. • A motorist should not park or drive in marked bicycle lanes. • When following bicyclists, give them plenty of room and be prepared to stop quickly. Use extra caution during rainy and icy weather. At night do not use high beams when you see an oncoming bicycle rider. • After parking and before opening vehicle doors, a motorist should first check for bicyclists. • When a motorist is turning left and there is a bicyclist entering the intersection from the opposite direction, the driver should wait for the bicyclist to pass before making the turn. Also, if a motorist is sharing the left turn lane with a bicyclist, stay behind them until they have safely completed their turn. • If a motorist is turning right and a bicyclist is approaching on the right, let the bicyclist go through the intersection first before making a right turn. Remember to always signal when turning. • Low-speed electric or gas bicycles must have a motor of less than 1 horsepower and must be operated by a person who is at least age 16. • Low-speed electric and gas bicycles may only be driven on streets and may not exceed 20 mph. They may not be driven on sidewalks. • Low-speed and electric bicycles must follow all laws applicable to bicyclists.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION On Saturday May 14, 2016, the Environmental Sustainability Commission hosted the monthly electronics recycling event at the Westchester water tower on Enterprise Drive. The event was for Westchester residents only . Prior to the event, Boy Scout Troop #1 held a U.S. Flag retirement ceremony. Used unserviceable flags were shredded in conformance with flag etiquette. Following the ceremony, Troop #1 members, and sponsors assisted in filling the 30 plus boxes of electronic recycling collected. We also hosted our semi-annual shredding event. Twenty-eight 96

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gallon recycling toters full of unwanted paper records were shredded in an attempt to prevent identity theft and the unwanted capture of your private information. We will be hosting another shredding event in October. Thank you for being engaged in making our environment friendly, and thank you to all of our volunteers for giving of your time for this worthwhile effort.

ARBOR DAY CEREMONY Arbor Day was Friday, April 29th. In honor of Arbor Day, the Village planted a tree at the Westchester Primary School. Several lucky students got to help me plant the tree. They were selected by random drawing from students with good behavior who got to put their name in the drawing. A program was presented after the tree planting about the importance of trees in our lives. I read the Dr. Seuss book “I can Name 50 Trees today” to the children and the book was donated to the school library.

POLICE OPEN HOUSE Chief Steven Stelter and his staff hosted an open house at the Westchester Police Department on Saturday, May 21, 2016. Chief Stelter said many residents and children were present to walk through the police department and view the inner workings of the police. Thanks to Patrol Officer Robert Verber who was responsible for planning the event. This year’s event included two K-9 demonstrations by the Cook County Sheriff’s Police. K-9 Kelli, a bloodhound utilized for tracking, and K-9 Sashi, a black lab utilized in the detection of explosives, provided attendees with an example of how K-9 units work in the field. Westchester Masonic Lodge 995 provided parents with a Child ID package that included: their child s fingerprints, DNA sample, along with a recorded picture and interview placed onto a CD-ROM. In the event the child is lost the CD along with DNA sample can be used as part of the process in locating the child. As always, the officers were on the alert for cookie thieves who had their mug shots taken.

Westchester police collected $3297 for their efforts. 2016 marks the 14th Anniversary of the Dunkin’ Donuts Cop on Rooftop event with the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Illinois! This event has been a huge success over the years; in fact, nearly $2.3 million has been raised during this great partnership! In 2016 there were 234 participating locations and more than $600,000 was raised to benefit the athletes of Special Olympics Illinois.This accomplishment is thanks to the hard work of the Law Enforcement officers and Dunkin’ Donuts. Chief Steven Stelter brought this new initiative to Westchester this year. Chief Stelter has been an avid supporter the Special Olympics for many years. Thanks,Chief for including Westchester this year.

FOURTH OF JULY PARADE Our annual FOURTH OF JULY PARADE will be held on Monday, July 4th. The parade will kick off at 9:30 am. Line-up begins at 8:30 am along Mayfair from Dorchester to Canterbury. The parade will travel down Dorchester across Mannheim Road where it winds around Balmoral to Canterbury. It will travel east on Canterbury to Newcastle where it will travel south to Bond Street and will end up at the Westchester Park District Community Park. FREE Popsicles and soft drinks will be available at the park. Applications are available in this newsletter. Come out and join the fun!

SAVE THE DATE – VILLAGE BLOCK PARTY On Friday, July 15th from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and again on Saturday, July 16th from 3pm to 10:30pm, we will be hosting our Village Block Party. The bands on Friday night will be Heartache Tonight (an Eagles Tribute Band) and Kicking Jimmy and the headliner on Saturday Night will be the Chicago Experience. There will be a variety of food vendors and activities for the kids. Hope to see you there!

MAYORS AGAINST ILLEGAL GUNS

Following the senseless killing of grammar school children and staff at the Sandy Hook School in Newtown, Connecticut in December 2012, I joined the Mayors Against Illegal Guns group. Being a school board member for over 13 years, a grandfather with WESTCHESTER POLICE SUPPORT 6 grandchildren, and a 40 year police SPECIAL OLYMPICS officer, I reflected not only how On Friday, May 13, 2016, Westchester would I feel if one of the victims, police officers were present at both of God forbid, was my grandchild, or a our Dunkin Donut Franchises accepting shooting happened in Westchester or donations to benefit Special Olympics. one of the surrounding suburbs. As

to DEA Agents in Lombard mid May. As a member of the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus Environmental Committee (MMC), I have signed on as a supporter of the Cook County Board’s discussion of having the large pharmaceutical companies be responsible for collecting unwanted/ expired pharmaceutical products. At a recent MMC meeting in Lombard on May 17, 2016, MWRD Commissioner Debra Shore presented the Cook County Board’s plan and indicated Currently, the Gun Dealer Licensing MWRD was in total support of the Act is being presented in the House of initiative.The Cook County Ordinance Representatives by Addison State Rep. was introduced by Commissioner Kathleen Willis. State Senator Donald Larry Suffredin, who incidentally Harmon of Oak Park, a proponent of was raised in Westchester, and now the Act, is pushing for background represents the Evanston area. checks for employees of gun dealers. Training and education for gun dealers and staffers so that staffers know FATHERS DAY Father’s Day is Sunday, June 19th. how to conduct a background check and how to spot and prevent straw Father’s Day is a celebration of fathers purchases, and the proper storage of started in the United States in the early twentieth century. It can be seen guns at dealerships to prevent theft. as a complement to Mother’s Day. GUN AWARENESS MONTH begins According to my girlfriend Suri, the June 1,2016. In support of the initiative first Fathers Day was celebrated on I will be participating by wearing June 19,. 1910. Back in the day, the father was ORANGE on June 2, 2016. Beginning June 1st, the Empire State Building in traditionally the breadwinner while New York will be turning orange as the mother was a housewife and well as many buildings throughout the raised the children. But that traditional country. Some reasons to support the family model is no longer valid. Nowadays often both parents work initiative are: Wear Orange and National Gun and share responsibilities associated Violence Awareness Day was inspired with raising children and taking care by a group of Chicago teens who asked of the house. Scientific studies confirm their classmates to commemorate the that fathers have a role to play in child life of their murdered friend, Hadiya development and affect the course Pendleton, by wearing orange— of their children’s development. the color hunters wear to protect Studies have consistently showed that paternal warmth, nurturance and themselves in the woods. On June 2nd, 2015, what would closeness are associated with positive have been Hadiya’s 18th birthday, a child outcomes even if fathers spend broad‐based coalition launched the less time with their children than the first National Gun Violence Awareness mothers. Father’s Day is a great opportunity to Day, and asked people nationwide to honor Hadiya’s life – and the lives of the appreciate the love and effort of our more than 90 Americans killed by gun fathers and Grandfathers have made violence every day and the hundreds to be a positive influence in our lives. Step Fathers are to be included in more who are shot and survive – by the group with the many blended wearing orange. Originating in hunting culture, the families prevalent in our society color orange pays tribute to America’s today. I consider all these men Dads. proud heritage of responsible gun Those of us whose dads are looking ownership. Orange hunting gear saves down from heaven are proud of us, countless lives each year. And Wear unconditionally….Happy Father’s Day Orange aims to inspire those who think Dad! we can do more to save lives from gun SORROW IN OUR MIDST violence to get involved with any one Diane Catalano, mother of Village of the more than a hundred non-profit partners in the Wear Orange coalition. Trustee Celeste (William) Reda, passed away on Monday, May 23rd. She was preceded in death by her beloved WESTCHESTER COLLECTS UNWANThusband Joseph. Mrs. Catalano had ED PHARMACEUTICALS another daughter Tiffany (Kurt Morris). The Village of Westchester has She was the cherished Grammy of Joe, collected 670 pounds of unwanted Bella, Juliana, Mandy, Sofia and Lexi. pills over the last 6 months since the The Reda Family is in our thoughts last DEA collection. The 670 pounds See PRESIDENT, page 18 of pharmaceuticals were delivered a retired police officer, I certify every year through the Illinois Standards and Training Board. I am allowed to carry a firearm pretty much anywhere I go. I believe in the 2nd Amendment and our rights as provided in our U.S. Constitution. That being said, I believe that there are far too many gun related deaths occurring not only in Chicago but throughout the USA. Many of these deaths are the result of the illegal possession of guns.

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and prayers at this difficult time.

WESTCHESTER COMMUNITY ROOM Hot weather might be right around the corner. The village hall community room will be available for extreme heat emergencies for those residents without air conditioning and when our heat index is such that health and safety is in jeopardy. For the past several years we have made the community room available for such occasions. The Westchester Fire Department/ Police Department are to be contacted should the need arise. Fire Chief Jim Adams has provided the rules of the room for your information. According to the Village of Westchester Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), the Village Cooling Center will be activated when the following conditions are forecasted: 3 consecutive days with the heat index at 100 º F - 104 º F 2 consecutive days with the heat index at 105 º F - 109 º F Single day with the heat index at 110 º F or higher The Village Cooling Center in the Community Room available to any residents that need it temporarily. Typically the hours for the cooling center are 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. There will be cots and water for residents to use. NO PETS will be allowed unless it is a certified service pet. The residents utilizing the cooling center are responsible for food and any other personal needs. This is for TEMPORARY use by residents. If residents need longer term assistance, we will make any accommodations within our power. IF you require assistance,please report to the police department where you will need to fill out a WESTCHESTER EMERGENCY RELOCATION FORM. The police will complete a background check BEFORE you are allowed into the cooling center.

EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING For most people,summer is one of the most anticipated seasons of the year, but in the midst of all the summertime excitement, the dangers of hot temperatures are often forgotten. If the National Weather Service issues one of the following alerts for your forecast area, get ready for triple digit temperatures and sweltering heat index values! 1. Excessive Heat Outlooks are

meant to alert you that the potential for excessive heat exists over the next 3-7 days. (When is heat considered to be excessive? When heat index values reach 105°F or higher.) Now is a good time to stock up on extra bottled water, water coolers/ice chests, and ice. 2. Excessive Heat Watches let you know that excessive heat is possible within the next 24-72 hours. Heat indices of 105°F+ during the day, or 80°F+ at night are expected to last for a couple of days. 3. Excessive Heat Warnings warn that heat index values are high enough to be life threatening! This threat exists when heat index values of 105°F+ are highly likely and are expected to last more than 3 hours per day for 2 consecutive days, or when a heat index of 115°F occurs for any length of time. 4. Excessive HeatAdvisories are similar to Excessive Heat Warnings, but less serious. If you take extra precautions to stay cool and keep well hydrated, the heat index may only cause discomfort rather than threaten your life. What’s a Heat Index? The heat index is a measure of how hot it feels outdoors as a result of air temperature and relative humidity combined. Wondering how humidity affects the feeling of hotness? When the human body overheats, it cools itself by perspiring, or sweating; heat is then removed from the body by evaporation of that sweat. Humidity, however, slows the rate of this evaporation.The more moisture the surrounding air contains, the less moisture it’s able to absorb from the skin’s surface through evaporation. With less evaporation occurring, less heat is removed from the body, which is the reason why the air feels hotter than it really is when it’s humid outside. For example, according to the heat index chart, if the air temperature is 86°F and the relative humidity is 90%, the heat index--how hot it feels--would be 105°F. Although heat index isn’t a “real” temperature, our bodies react to it like it is. When the heat index is expected to exceed 105-110°F for 2 or more consecutive days, the NOAA National Weather Service will issue excessive heat alerts for an area. At these apparent temperatures, the skin essentially can’t breathe. If the body overheats to 105.1+ °F it is at risk for heat illnesses, such as heat stroke. The above information provided by Tiffany Means Weather Expert at www.about.com. DIVINE INFANT MEN’S CLUB GOLF OUTING The Divine Infant Men’s Club annual golf outing is being held on Friday, June 10, 2016 at the Bloomingdale Golf Club, 181 N. Glen Ellyn Rd. Bloomingdale, Illinois 60108. The

event will start at 12:30 pm sign in with a 1:30pm shotgun start. The cost is $120p er person. Reservations need to be made and paid for by June 7th. For the past 64 years the men’s club, a not-for-profit organization, has been both a social club for the parish family as well as an avid supporter and financial sponsor of many of DI’s community events and programs. These include, but are not limited to, boy’s baseball, girl’s softball, Cub Scout’s of America, Miracles in Progress, the Westchester Community Image Council, and the Veteran’s Day Run. How can you help? Organizers are respectfully asking for donations that can be used as raffle prizes for the participants in this year’s event. In the past we have been the recipients of exciting awards including gift certificates from your local restaurant or service business, tickets to the theater and local sporting events, golf clubs, autographed baseballs, footballs, and photos, etc. Should monetary contributions be more desirable, for $100 your customized sign will be displayed at a tee and at check in for all to see. For $250 they are offering a beer station sponsorship as well. Even if you are unable to donate at this time the Men’s Club would love to have you participate in this year’s outing. The outing is open to everyone. Should you have ANY questions about our organization please feel free to contact them at (708) 512-4510 or di.mensclub@gmail.com. Contact Neil Boyle at 708-267-6305 or by e-mail at ngboyle@aol.com or Patrick Casey at 708-804-9556 or by e-mail at casey0912@att.net

the U.S. military. Beware of these common Memorial Day scam tactics used to steal money and identities: Impersonating a military or veteran charity’s website and soliciting for donations. Posing as the Veterans Administration (VA) to contact veterans about updating their credit card, bank or other financial records with the VA. Charging service members for services they could get for free, such as military records. Convincing veterans to transfer their assets into fraudulent investment schemes. Offering guaranteed military loans that can have high interest rates and hidden fees. Advertising housing online with military discounts and incentives, and then bilking service personnel out of security deposits. Trying to sell products security systems to spouses of deployed military personnel by saying the service member ordered it to protect his or her family; Selling stolen vehicles at low prices by claiming to be a soldier who needs to sell fast because he’s been deployed. Posing as government contractors recruiting veterans and then asking for a copy of the job applicant’s passport which can lead to identity theft. Posing on online dating services as a lonely service member in a remote part of Iraq or Afghanistan, and then asking for money to be wired to a third party for some emergency.

BBB recommends the following advice to avoid these and other scams: Do your research. Get as much information as you can about a BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU - LATEST business before you pay. Check out SCAMS a company’s BBB Business Review at Veteran Scams bbb.org. Memorial Day is a time to remember Research national charities through and honor our service men and BBB Wise Giving Allliance at give.org women who currently serve our before making a donation. Donors country, veterans and those who are encouraged to consider utilizing have paid the ultimate sacrifice in BBBs 20 Standards for Charity war. Unfortunately, scammers see the Accountability as a reference to holiday as an opportunity to target evaluate organizations. military members and their families, Never wire transfer money to especially older veterans. someone you don’t know. Money sent by wire transfer is practically As Memorial Day weekend impossible to track. Pay by credit card approaches, your Better Business whenever possible, since you can Bureau is warning of various scams dispute charges much easier. and/or misleading sales tactics that are Protect your computer. Don’t click directed at the military community. on links within unsolicited emails BBB Military Line, the military arm of or enter personal information on the Better Business Bureau, provides unfamiliar websites. Make sure that free resources,such as financial literacy you have updated anti-virus software information, access to BBB services installed and use a firewall at all times. and scam alerts, and complaint and See PRESIDENT, page 23 dispute resolution for all branches of

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Put an Active Duty alert on your credit reports when deployed. Doing so will help to minimize the risk of identity theft because creditors and businesses cannot issue or grant credit until verifying identity. If you or anyone you know comes in contact with any of these scams, report a scam at BBB Scam Tracker.Visit bbb.org for additional information on BBB Military Line. For more BBB tips you can trust, follow BBB Western PA on Facebook and Twitter and sign-up to receive our free monthly e-newsletters. Fake Concert Tickets, Even Fake Festivals - a REAL Problem Another major summer problem that starts to Spring up around Memorial Day - FAKE TICKETS. BBB President and CEO Bernas adds, “History shows that another scam activity that tends to heat up with the warmer weather includes rip-offs like fake ticket sales.” CounterfeitTickets are becoming more lucrative and wide-spread with soaring ticket prices. Even Fake Festivals are popping up. Beware of summer concert ticket scams. Before paying for concert tickets online, make sure the seller is reputable. Oftentimes, phony sellers will trick consumers into wiring money with no intention of sending real tickets. Most concert venues now allow ticket holders to print tickets from personal computers, which also gives scammers the opportunity to sell the same ticket over and over to unsuspecting consumers. Also consumers need to be wary of fake festivals and other events. Some Scam Ticket and Scam Festival Insights: You see a great deal on tickets to a summer festival in your city, usually through a social media link. For a reasonable entrance fee, the festival offers delicious food such as all-youcan-eat crabs, live music, and/or craft beer and wine. You click the link, and it takes you to a website to buy tickets. Just enter your credit card information, and you are set. Don’t do it! Better Business Bureaus across North America have reported fake festival sign-ups.Victims purchase tickets and show up at the time and location, only to find a crowd of frustrated ticket holders. Other times, the festival is real, but the tickets are fake. Internet shoppers often find themselves deceived into jumping on sites with no connection to the actual event or venue.

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Ticket Buyers and all consumers can search the BBB database of accredited businesses at no charge at “Ask BBB” http://ask.bbb.org/. A full database of all businesses and ratings can also be found on the main webpage at www. bbb.org - also like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and add us on Pinterest. How to Spot a Fake Festival Scam: Do your research before purchasing. Search online for the name of the festival and make sure the name advertised matches the website. Scammers often use names that sound similar to those of real festivals. Check for (working) contact information: Be sure the festival website has a phone number and email address. Watch out for being rerouted to site with non-related names. Prices too good to be true: There is no way a festival can offer tickets at extremely low prices without losing money. If the prices are much lower than elsewhere, it’s likely a scam. What Can You Do? Pay with a credit card: You can dispute the charges if the business doesn’t come through. Be wary of online sellers that don’t accept credit cards. Look for secure sites: The website should begin with https (the extra “s” is for secure) and have a little lock symbol on the address bar. Avoid tickets sold on Craigslist and other free online listings: Scammers are skilled at providing realistic tickets and fake receipts. Check out third-party ticket sites at www.bbb.org before making purchases. ABOUT BBB: For more than 100 years, Better Business Bureau has been helping people find businesses, brands and charities they can trust. In 2015, people turned to BBB more than 172 million times for BBB Business Reviews on more than 5.3 million businesses and Charity Reports on 11,000 charities, all available for free at . The Council of Better Business Bureaus is the umbrella organization for the local, independent BBBs in the United States, Canada and Mexico, as well as home to its national programs on dispute resolution, advertising review, and industry self-regulation. IRS WARNS TAXPAYES OF TELEPHONE SCAM I recently heard a radio program where unsuspecting citizens are still being targeted and have sent hundreds and thousands of dollars to satisfy unpaid taxes. This office has on many occasions, in conjunction with our police department, warned about people being scammed. The program guest, an ex-FBI agent and former Navy Seal stated that the first line of defense is education. For those who have read and heeded the advice,

that is great. For those who may have missed it, here it comes again. The Internal Revenue Service has issued another strong warning for consumers to guard against sophisticated and aggressive phone scams targeting taxpayers,including recent immigrants, as reported incidents of this crime continue to rise nationwide. These scams won’t likely end with the tax filing season, so the IRS urges everyone to remain on guard. Victims are told they owe money to the IRS and it must be paid promptly through a pre-loaded debit card or wire transfer. If the victim refuses to cooperate, they are then threatened with arrest, deportation or suspension of a business or driver’s license. In many cases, the caller becomes hostile and insulting. “This scam has hit taxpayers in nearly every state in the country. We want to educate taxpayers so they can help protect themselves. Rest assured, we do not and will not ask for credit card numbers over the phone, nor request a pre-paid debit card or wire transfer,” says IRS Acting Commissioner Danny Werfel. “If someone unexpectedly calls claiming to be from the IRS and threatens police arrest, deportation or license revocation if you don’t pay immediately, that is a sign that it really isn’t the IRS calling.”Werfel noted that the first IRS contact with taxpayers on a tax issue is likely to occur via mail. Other characteristics of this scam include: Scammers use fake names and IRS badge numbers. They generally use common names and surnames to identify themselves. Scammers may be able to recite the last four digits of a victim’s Social Security Number. Scammers spoof the IRS toll-free number on caller ID to make it appear that it’s the IRS calling. Scammers sometimes send bogus IRS emails to some victims to support their bogus calls. Victims hear background noise of other calls being conducted to mimic a call site. After threatening victims with jail time or driver’s license revocation, scammers hang up and others soon call back pretending to be from the local police or DMV, and the caller ID supports their claim. If you get a phone call from someone claiming to be from the IRS, here’s what you should do: If you know you owe taxes or you think you might owe taxes, call the IRS at 1.800.829.1040.The IRS employees at that line can help you with a payment issue – if there really is such an issue. If you know you don’t owe taxes or have no reason to think that you owe any taxes (for example, you’ve never received a bill or the caller made some

bogus threats as described above), then call and report the incident to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at 1.800.366.4484. If you’ve been targeted by this scam, you should also contact the Federal Trade Commission and use their “FTC Complaint Assistant” at FTC.gov. Please add “IRS Telephone Scam” to the comments of your complaint. Taxpayers should be aware that there are other unrelated scams (such as a lottery sweepstakes) and solicitations (such as debt relief) that fraudulently claim to be from the IRS. The IRS encourages taxpayers to be vigilant against phone and email scams that use the IRS as a lure.The IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email to request personal or financial information. This includes any type of electronic communication, such as text messages and social media channels.The IRS also does not ask for PINs, passwords or similar confidential access information for credit card,bank or other financial accounts. Recipients should not open any attachments or click on any links contained in the message. Instead, forward the e-mail to phishing@irs.gov. More information on how to report phishing scams involving the IRS is available on the genuine IRS website, IRS.gov. HOW TO TELL IF A CHARITY IS TAX EXEMPT I have been asked many times about charitable donations that are Tax Free and information about organizations and how much of our donations go to the people in need instead of the administration of the charity. What does a 501(c)(3) status mean? The 501(c)(3) charitable status is a federal status that means the organization does not have to pay tax on its surplus income and that individuals and corporations may claim a charitable contribution deduction for contributions made to it. 501(c)(3) charities have that status for federal purposes no matter where they operate within the United States. If you want to check the federal status, it is possible to check on line at www.guidestar.org, which contains the Form 990 tax information returns for most charities in the country but is not an official list, or on the IRS website, which provides the official list. The most direct way, of course, is to ask the organization. If it is a charity and files a Form 990, 990-EZ, 990-N, or 990-PF tax information return, it is obligated to give you a copy.

ILLINOIS ATTORNEY GENERAL LISA MADIGAN Investigate Before You Donate Every day, charities throughout Illinois work tirelessly to serve the

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administrators. If you are interested in learning more about a particular organization, or want to know if a charity that has solicited you for a donation is registered, please contact the Charitable Trust Bureau at 312814-2595 (TTY: 1-800-964-3013).

deductible. Pay attention to names. Some phony charities intentionally use names that Continued from page 23 sound or look like those of respected, legitimate organizations to mislead less fortunate. Unfortunately, there you. are also fraudulent charities that Contact the charity. Find out of the prey upon the generosity of Illinois organization has authorized the use citizens. Fraudulent charities may Tips for Donating of its name. If it is not aware of the make misleading solicitations or solicit Find out if the solicitor is a paid fund- solicitation, you may be dealing with a for phony causes. These con artists raiser. If the solicitor is paid, a portion sham solicitor. take advantage of citizens and harm of your contribution will pay the salary. Be skeptical if a solicitor thanks you legitimate charities. Illinois law requires paid fund-raisers for a pledge you don’t remember To ensure that your donation goes to identify themselves as such and to making. Check your records and don’t to a legitimate charity, give wisely. name the charity for which they’re pay for a pledge you didn’t make. Ask questions, gather information and soliciting. Refuse high pressure solicitations. donate only when you are satisfied Ask how much of your contribution Legitimate charities won’t push you to that your money will be used in ways will go to the charity. Illinois law give on the spot. you consider appropriate. requires professional fund-raisers to Be wary of charities that offer to pick Today, more than 25,000 legitimate disclose this information if asked. up your donation. charitable organizations are Request written information. A Don’t feel obligated. If charities send registered with my office. These legitimate charity will provide you you unsolicited goods such as labels organizations regularly provide my with information outlining its mission, and note cards in the mail, you are office with information about their how your donation will be distributed, under no obligation to contribute and income, expenditures, programs and and proof that your contribution is tax may keep any unsolicited merchandise

without donating. Consider fund-raising costs. When you buy merchandise or receive free goods as part of your donation, these items are paid for out of your contribution. That means less of your donation may go to the charity. Be wary if you are promised sweepstakes winnings in exchange for your contribution. You never have to donate to be eligible to win. Never pay in cash. For security and tax record purposes, pay by check. Write the official name of the charity on your check–do not use initials. Charity Scams Especially in the aftermath of 911, charity scams have proliferated. Emails arrive daily telling about often true disasters, like the Tsunami in Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia, and asking for you to donate. they are virtually ALL

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scams. Legitimate aid agencies do not send out spam or bulk emails. Here’s how to know and what to do. If you’re approached by an unfamiliar charity, check it out. Most states require charities to register with them and file annual reports showing how they use donations. Ask your state or local consumer protection agency how to get this information. The Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance also offers information about national charities. Call 703-276-0100 or go to www.give.org. Be cautious about emails seeking charitable contributions. Many unsolicited email messages are fraudulent. Beware of sound-alikes. Some crooks try to fool people by using names that are very similar to those of well-known charities. Ask how donations are used. One of the most important things to consider is how much of your money goes to fundraising and administrative costs, rather than to the charitable work itself. Be wary of requests to support police or firefighters. Some fraudulent fundraisers claim that donations will

benefit police or firefighters, when in fact little or no money goes to them. Contact your local police or fire department to find out if the claims are true and what percentage of donations, if any, they will receive. Be especially cautious when there are natural or other disasters. Fraudulent charities take advantage of those situations to trick people who want to help the victims. If you’re not sure whether a charity is legitimate, check it out with your state charities regulator and the BBB before you donate. To report possible charity fraud, call 312-814-2595.

BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF ILLINOIS OFFERS NEW SCHOLARSHIP WITH THE UNCF Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) today upped its commitment to support students who wish to pursue STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) related careers in health care through the expansion of scholarship opportunities, internships and educational programs. As part of these efforts, the company announced the creation of The Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas STEM Scholarship, facilitated by the UNCF (United Negro College Fund).

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encourage STEM careers also allows us to work with a historic organization that shares our commitment to Continued from page 27 diversity and inclusion as well as our commitment to advancing educational Beginning May 16, high school seniors opportunities in the communities we can apply for a $20,000 scholarship to serve.” pursue a four year degree program in “We’re excited not only about a STEM related field. Applications will our efforts with Blue Cross and be accepted through June 24, 2016 Blue Shield of Illinois, but also this at UNCF.org http://www.uncf.org)(/ new scholarship opportunity for a importantinfo/legal#thirdpartylinks). deserving student right here in our state,”said Michael Cox, UNCF regional As part of the submission process, development director, who oversees students must write an essay on UNCF’s campaign in Illinois. “This is the value of STEM careers and significant news for students pursuing improving health care outcomes STEM majors and careers, and we truly in underrepresented communities. appreciate this investment in better “BCBSIL is proud to offer this futures through UNCF.” scholarship to today’s students — an investment in tomorrow’s leaders and STEM occupations are projected professionals in the health care field,” to grow by 17 percent from 2008 said Maurice Smith, president, Blue to 2018, compared to 9.8 percent Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois. growth for non STEM occupations, according to the U.S. Department of “Teaming up with the UNCF to Commerce. BCBSIL anticipates 14

percent growth in STEM related jobs companywide over the next two years. Over the past two years, the company has experienced a 33 percent growth in STEM related jobs. To help meet demand and deepen awareness of the variety of STEM related careers in health insurance including actuarial science, finance, treasury, technology, nursing, network engineers, medical directors and more, BCBSIL is cultivating relationships with elementary school, high school and college students who reflect the diverse communities the company serves.

FROM THE BOARD At the April 26th Village Board Meeting, the following items were approved under the Consent Agenda: Approval of the Record of Bills ending 04-21-16 in the amount not to exceed $447,409.70 An Ordinance Approving and Adopting the Annual Budget for the Fiscal Year Beginning May 1, 2016 and

Ending April 30, 2017 in the Village of Westchester An Ordinance Authorizing the Sale of Surplus Property of the Village of Westchester A Resolution Approving a Collective Bargaining Agreement Between the Village of Westchester and the Westchester Professional Fire Fighters Local 4851,International Association of Fire Fighters, AFL-CIO-CLC, Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois A Resolution Endorsing the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus’ Greenest Region Compact 2 A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of a Professional Engineering Services Agreement with Engineering Solutions Team for Design and Construction Observation Services Related to the Replacement of the Roof at 10240 Roosevelt Road in the Amount of $35,000

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At the April 26th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under New Business: Proposed Amendment to Municipal Code – Chapter 5.36 – Liquor Sale Proposed Amendment to Municipal Code – Chapter 7.72 – Drug Paraphernalia, Marijuana; Prohibitions Intergovernmental Agreement – Lemont Rifle Range Reappointment of Keith Suchy to

Police Pension Board

Approval of Departmental Monthly Reports: Community Development At the April 26th Village Committee Department, Police Department, of the Whole Meeting, the following Fire Department, and Public Works items discussed under Old Business: Department Change Order No. 4 – Mayfair Phase An Ordinance Amending Chapter II Project 7.72, Entitled “Drug Paraphernalia, Alley Program Marijuana; Prohibitions”, of Title 7, ETSB Consolidation entitled “Public Peace, Safety and Morals” of the Municipal Code of the At the May 10thVillage Board Meeting, Village of Westchester, Cook County, the following items were approved Illinois under the Consent Agenda: A ResolutionApproving Change Order Approval of the Record of Bills ending No. 4, in the Amount of $77,622.28, 05-05-16 in the amount not to exceed to a Contract Between the Village of $985,573.30 Westchester and Berger Excavating

Contractors, Inc. for Services Related to the Mayfair Reservoir Expansion Phase II Project A ResolutionAdvising and Consenting to Appointment of Certain Officers A Resolution Approving and Authorizing the Execution of an Intergovernmental Agreement Between the Village of Westchester and the Village of Lemont Regarding the Use of the Village of Lemont’s Shooting Range At the May 10thVillage Board Meeting,

See PRESIDENT, page 31

JUNE 2016

PRESIDENT Continued from page 30

the following item was removed from the Consent Agenda for further discussion and then was approved: An Ordinance Amending Chapter 5.36, Entitled “Liquor Sale,” of Title 5, entitled “Business Licenses and Regulations,” of the Westchester Municipal Code

given tonight and the exhibits he provided, the report provided by Community Development Director Melissa Headley on April 12, 2016, and the transcripts from the public hearings held on November 23, 2015 and March 21, 2016 At the May 10th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under New Business: Community Camera Partnership MXU fines Dog Park Variance Proposed Late Fee for Places for Eating Tax Bid Results – HVAC Service Engineering Services – 2017 Road Program

At the May 10th Village Board Meeting, the following item was added to the Consent Agenda and approved: An Ordinance Amending Section 5.36.280, Entitled “License Revocation”,of Chapter 5.36,entitled “Liquor Sales,” of Title 5, entitled At the May 10th Village Committee “Business Licenses and Regulations,” of the Whole Meeting, the following of the Municipal Code of the Village items discussed under Old Business: of Westchester, Cook County, Illinois ETSB Consolidation

the Whole Meeting, and Minutes of the May 10, 2016 Executive Session An Ordinance Amending Chapter 2.60, Entitled “Water Department”, of the Westchester Municipal Code An Ordinance Amending Chapter 3.45, Entitled “Tax on the Gross Receipts of Places for Eating,” of the Westchester Municipal Code A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of a Multi-Year Mechanical System Maintenance Contract Between Youna Mechanical, Inc. and the Village of Westchester, in the amount of $14,900.00

At the May 10th Village Board Meeting, the following items were approved under the Active Agenda: An Ordinance Authorizing the Execution of an Intergovernmental Agreement Establishing the ProvisoLeyden Joint 9-1-1 Authority and Terminating the Operation of the Village of Westchester Emergency Telephone System Board At the May 10th Village Board At the May 24th Village Board A Resolution Authorizing the Meeting, the following items were Meeting, the following items were Execution of an Agreement with approved under the Active Agenda: approved under the Consent Christopher B. Burke Engineering, A Motion to Affirm the Zoning Agenda: Ltd. for Professional Design Board of Appeals’ Denial of a Special Approval of the Record of Bills and Construction Observation Use Permit for the Construction ending 05-19-16 in the amount not Engineering Services Related to the of a Cell Tower at Mayfair Park; in to exceed $718,908.03 2016 Street Improvement Program, addition, to provide the Petitioner Approval of Minutes of the May 10, in the Amount of $94,000 with the denial of his application, 2016 Village Board Meeting, Minutes as well as President Pulia’s report of the May 10, 2016 Committee of At the May 24th Village Committee

of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under New Business: Bid Results – Tree Service Bid Results – Emergency Street Light Service – Mayfair Pump Station Operation – Proposed Amendment to Façade Grant Program Façade Grant Application – Giordano’s Proposed Amendment to Municipal Code – Trailer Parking Regulation of Small Cell Antenna Structures Financing Agreement – Purchase of Capital Equipment Code Enforcement – Tall Grass At the May 24th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under Old Business: ETSB Consolidation Update Crime Camera – Community Partnership Program Religious Uses in Areas Zoned Industrial At the May 24th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under Information Only: Purchase of Detective Vehicle (unmarked) not to exceed $25,000 from Police Forfeiture Fund – Chief Stelter