July 2011 Newsletter

Village of Westchester

July 2011 Newsletter

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY

Today is the Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day. It is a federal holiday in the United States and commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 declaring independence from Great Britain. Historians note that during the American Revolution, the legal separation of the Thirteen Colonies from Great Britain occurred on July 2, 1776, when the Second Continental Congress voted to approve a resolution of independence. After voting for independence, Congress turned its attention to the Declaration of Independence to explain their decision. A Committee of Five, with Thomas Jefferson as the principal author, prepared the document. After Congress debated the document, revisions were made which led to the Declaration of Independence being approved on July 4, 1776.Westchester’s Fourth of July Parade has always been a way of bringing our community together to celebrate our American Heritage and beliefs. As we celebrate with barbecues, picnics, baseball games, family reunions, and enjoying many of the neighboring municipal-

sponsored fi rework displays, take a moment to refl ect on all of the trials and tribulations our forefathers endured to make this country what it is today… the best place on earth.

VILLAGE MOURNS PASSING OF COMMUNITY LEADER

June 2011 ended in a somber note with the passing of former Village Trustee Angelo Luciano. Angelo served as a Village Trustee for 32 years. He was instrumental in many of the improvements and decisions that affected all of the residents in Westchester. Some of Angelo’s most notable contributions include the construction of the 60 million gallon retention area adjacent to Mayfair Park; the implementation of the village 9-1-1 system; pioneer of the Westchester Fun Fest; Board Member of St. Joseph and IHM High School; and usher and fi nance person at Divine Providence Parish. Angelo’s hard work and volunteer contributions to this Village and countless organizations will certainly be missed.

From the Desk of The President

FIRE DEPARTMENT

POLICE

CALENDAR

WESTCHESTERFEST

PUZZLES

PUBLIC WORKS

3

4

5

13

9

19

2

See PRESIDENT, page 2

President Sam Pulia and newly appointed Fire Chief Jim Adams at his swearing in on Friday, June 17.

NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH MEETING

On June 15th Chief April Padalik and Patrol Officer Rob Verber hosted an informational presentation of the village Neighborhood Watch program. Even though the rainy weather kept many residents away a small group of residents heard Chief Padalik and Officer Verber explain options for improving safety and protecting us from the criminal element. For further information please contact Rob Verber, Community Relations Officer, [email protected], (708) 345-0060 ext. 440

ILLINOIS PASSES EDUCATION REFORM

On Tuesday June 14th I was invited to attend the historic signing of the Education Reform Bill - Senate Bill 7 at the Lexington School in Maywood, IL. Numerous elected officials from our state government were present including Governor Pat Quinn, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, and our own State Senator and facilitator of the Bill, Majority Leader of the Senate, Ms. Kimberly Lightford. Senator Lightford is a strong supporter of education and championed this Bill. Some notable aspects of the Bill include allowing for a longer school day for the children of the Chicago Public School system, tying tenure to performance evaluations, bargaining, and removing seniority as the sole basis for determining layoffs. The process involved with bringing all parties to the table for discussion was touted as a model for the entire country. Senator Lightford described this Bill as a defining moment in her tenure as State Senator.

NEW ELMHURST HOSPITAL NOW OPEN

I attended the black tie event at the pre opening of Elmhurst Memorial Hospital on Saturday, June 11th. The new hospital located at York and Roosevelt, is just a stone’s throw from Westchester. The planners and architects thought of everything as they put this state of the art facility together. Some of the attendees agreed that the facility had better accommodations than what they had in their private homes. Most wanted to put their name on the door and live there quietly. Kudos to the Elmhurst

Memorial contributors, Elmhurst Mayor DiCianni, and former Mayor Thomas Marcucci for bringing this hospital and all its amenities to our community.

RELAY FOR LIFE

The American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Westchester was held on June 25th and 26th at Mayfair Park. The Opening/Survivor Ceremony began at 6pm followed by the Luminaria Ceremony at 9pm. This is the 5th anniversary of the Relay for Life in Westchester. Every person who participated in this event joins others around the globe as part of this worldwide movement to end cancer. I’m sure everyone knows someone who has either had or has cancer. I personally have lost both of my parents to this dreaded disease and hope we can find a cure to prevent others from having to deal with its catastrophic effects. A big thank you to all who contributed, participated, and helped make the Westchester Relay a success.

3rd ANNUAL PINK TEA WITH FRIENDS

State Representative Karen Yarbrough held her 3rd Annual “Pink Tea with Friends” for breast cancer on June 4th at the Hillside Village Hall. There were over 100 guests who heard important information about breast cancer, nutrition, and heartwarming stories from cancer survivors. Each of the women shared their personal challenges, positive mental attitude, and their survivor instincts. The event also included its hallmark Hat Fashion Show where “yours truly” donned a tuxedo, with charcoal bow tie and cummerbund and 50 year old gray “zuit” suit era fedora given to me by my father. Thank you to all our sponsors, and especially those from Westchester: Ashland-Addison Florist; Astro Tours/Sylvia E’s; Paul’s Pizza; Joe’s Place; Storino, Ramello and Durkin; Christopher Burke Engineering; Hancock Engineering; Headquarters Hair Salon; LePetite Café; Albano’s Deli; Dee’s Paradise Nails; and Diamond Nails.

ELECTRONIC RECYCLING

Our 3rd Electronic Recycling event was held on Saturday, June 11th. To our surprise, we again filled the marine container behind the fire station. Thank you to all who participated, even those who came from other villages. Our next drop off will be Saturday, July 9th from

9:00 am until 12 noon.

PHARMACEUTICAL RECYCLING

The village pharmaceutical recycling program is also in full swing. It is located in the inside “foyer” of the Village Hall. This area has surveillance monitoring to ensure that no one tampers with the receptacle. The Village Hall foyer is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Feel free to drop off your unused prescriptions and over-the-counter pharmaceuticals at any time. Please do not flush these items down the sink or toilet as the cost of reprocessing waste water through the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District is very expensive.

COOK COUNTY SHERIFF’S MEDAL OF MERIT VOLUNTEERS

I am happy to report that I have three high school aged students who have been volunteering their time and labor to receive the Sheriff’s Medal of Merit from Cook County Sheriff Thomas Dart. The teenagers have helped me dramatically improve the appearance of our post office.

The bushes and trees have been trimmed, some removed, and a new layer of mulch has been placed out in front of the building. I am sure you will agree that the effort was worth it.

FIRE CHIEF RETIRES At our June 16th meeting we honored the service of retiring Fire Chief Richard E. Belmonte. Chief Belmonte has served the residents of Westchester for the past 32 years, the last six as Fire Chief. Chief Belmonte ascended through the ranks of the Fire Department and was appointed Fire Chief in 2006. Throughout his tenure, Chief Belmonte has done a great job managing and making sure our Fire Department personnel gave exemplary service. We all wish him well in his retirement and thank him for his years of service and dedication to the Village of Westchester. Chief you will be missed.

APPOINTMENT OF NEW FIRE CHIEF

With the retirement of Chief Belmonte, a new Fire Chief was

PRESIDENT Continued from page 1


2 JULY 2010

Police Blotter: May 15th through June 15th 2011

On May 21st at 10:21am a theft was reported at the Time Center located at 9848 Roosevelt Road. Taken were a pair of diamond ear rings. The subjects were described as two African American males, one approximately 30 years of age, the other approximately 42 years of age.

On May 26th at 5:34pm, a criminal damage to vehicle was reported on the 1600 block of Mannheim Road. A resident reported that an unknown person(s) smashed the rear window of their vehicle with a large rock.

On May 30th at 3:44pm, a residential burglary was reported on the 700 block of Newcastle. The resident reported that the unknown person(s) broke off the lock to the rear sliding glass patio doors and entered the residence. It was advised that nothing appeared to have been taken and that those inside may have exited after hearing the alarm.

On May 31st at 11:08am, a theft report was taken on the 1400 block of Suffolk. The resident reported that taken were a garden hose and garden hose stand from the yard.

On June 1st at 1:20pm, a retail theft was reported at the Walgreens located at 10345 Roosevelt Road. Employees of Walgreen advised the Westchester Police Department that a subject had just left the store taking a large amount of candy. Officers quickly apprehended

the subject with $81.67 worth of candy in his possession and was taken into custody.

On June 9th at 10:36am, a burglary from motor vehicle was reported on the 1400 block of Evers. It was reported that unknown person(s) entered the vehicle and removed a black purse. No

signs of forced entry were found to the vehicle. On June 13th at 7:59am, a theft was reported on the 1300 block of Suffolk. The resident reported that sometime during the previous evening a bicycle was taken from the locked unattached garage. No signs of forced entry were observed.

Police Spotlight: Dominic LucianoOccupation: Police Sergeant

Shift CommanderYears as police officer : 17

Was there moment when you realized this is the job for me: I started my law enforcement career as a dispatcher right out of high school. I knew at that moment this was what I wanted to do.

Describe a good day at work: When everyone goes home safe

What is the best part about your job? You meet a lot of interesting people. You also get to help others in their time of need.

What is one downside to your job? Changing shifts every month is hard. You spend a lot of time away from your family and friends,

especially on holidays and special occasions.

What advice would you to give to someone who wants to follow your career path? Being a police officer is a career not a job. It’s something

you have to think long and hard about before making a commitment.

What would occur on your perfect day off? My perfect day off is spending quality time with my wife and kids.

Village Sticker Enforcement

Recent Ordinance Changes now allow Westchester Police Officers authority to enforce village vehicle sticker violations on both public and private property.

Any vehicle registered to the Village of Westchester either for business or private use, is required to display a current village vehicle sticker in the lower passenger side portion of the windshield of such vehicle.

Any expired village stickers should be removed from display.

Pet Ordinances

Residents are reminded of some of the most commonly violated pet ordinances. You are only allowed (2) dogs per residence. All dogs and cats are to be registered with the Police Department.

Dog/Cat licenses are free and are helpful to the pet owner should the pet get lost. All pet owners are responsible to clean up after their dog or cat on both public and private property.

All violations are subject to fine. See the Village Website for more information on village codes and ordinances.

Curfew

7.20.010 – Offenses(a) A minor commits the offense of

curfew violation if he or she remains in any public lace or on the premises of any establishment during curfew hours.

(b) A parent or guardian of a minor or other person in custody or control of a minor commits an offense if he/she knowingly permits the minor to remain in any public place or on the premises of any establishment during curfew hours.

“Curfew Hours” means:Between 11:30 pm Friday and 6:00

am on SaturdayBetween 11:30 pm Saturday and

6:00 am on Sunday; and Between 10:30 pm on Sunday to

Thursday, inclusive, and 6:00 am on the following day.

Please see the Village Website @

www.westchester-il.org for more information on village codes and ordinances.

Westchester Police Want You to Know…

POLICE4 JULY 2011

July Registration ongoing for Youth Summer Reading Programs at Library. Contact Youth Dept at (708) 562-3573.

Registration ongoing for Page Turners Reading Club for adults and high school students at Library. Contact Adult Dept at (708) 562-3573.

Tuesday, July 5: “Stories and Authors from Down Under” family multimedia program 2:00 pm at Library. Contact Youth Dept at (708) 562-3573.

Wednesday, July 6: Family Film Night “Voyage of the Dawn Treader” 5:00 PM at Library. Contact Youth Dept at 708-562-3573.

Monday, July 11: Monday Matinee “Don’t Know Much about History” 2:00 PM at Library. Contact Youth Dept at (708) 562-3573.

Monday, July 11: Friday, July 15: Grace Lutheran Church Vacation Bible School, 9 am - Noon, daily, 1101 Manchester. “A Whale of a Tale: The Parables of Jesus” for ages 4 through finished with 6th grade. Call the church office to register your children (708)345-1375

Tuesday, July 12: Friends of the Library Chess and Scrabble Game Night 5:45 – 7:45 PM at Library. Membership in Friends required. Membership table available on game nights.

Wednesday, July 13: Family Film Night “Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows/part 1” 5:00 PM at Library. Contact Youth Dept at (708) 562-3573.

Thursday, July 14: “Stories and Authors from Down Under” family multimedia program 6:00 pm at Library. Contact Youth Dept at (708) 562-3573.

Monday, July 18: Monday Matinee “Giant-sized Fun” 2:00 PM at Library. Contact Youth Dept at (708) 562-3573.

Tuesday, July 19: “Island Stories” family multimedia program 2:00 pm at Library. Contact Youth Dept at (708) 562-3573.

Wednesday, July 20: Family Film Night “Toy Story 3” 5:00 PM at Library. Contact Youth Dept at (708) 562-3573.

Friday, July 22: St. Joseph 35th Annual Alumni & Friends Golf Outing at St. Andrews Golf & Country Club; Shotgun Start at 12:00 pm. Tickets include: golf, cart, lunch (served from 10:30 am – 11:30 am), 2 hours of cocktails, dinner, prizes, and more. To register or for further information email/call Gene Pingatore at [email protected], 708.562.7488.

Monday, July 25: Monday Matinee “Globe Trotter” 2:00 PM at Library. Contact Youth Dept at (708) 562-3573.

Wednesday, July 27:Family Film Night “Megamind” 5:00 PM at Library. Contact Youth Dept at (708) 562-3573.

Thursday, July 28: “Island Stories” family multimedia program 6:00 pm at Library. Contact Youth Dept at (708) 562-3573.

Monday, August 1: Friends of the Library Chess and Scrabble Game Night 5:45 – 7:45 PM at Library. Membership in Friends required. Membership table available on game nights.

Saturday, August 6: Westchester Community Church

Flea Market 8:30am-2:00pm, 1840 Westchester Blvd. $5 Early Bird shopping admittance from 8:00-8:30am otherwise free admittance. Food will be sold from 8:00 am – 1:30 pm. Proceeds go to the general fund of the church. For more information contact the church office at (708) 865-1282.

2011 FEST: Fun for the Whole family

Carnival Hours: Friday 6PM - 11PM *Saturday NOON - 11PM * Sunday NOON - 10PM

Wristbands: $20.00 each day; Saturday and Sunday only: Unlimited rides: 1PM - 5PM. For all the Fest information including food

vendors and entertainment, please see the chamber website: www.westchesterchamber.org

Westchester Electronic Waste Recycling ProgramSaturday, July 9: 9:00AM- Noon, behind Village Hall and the Westchester Post Office. Bring your old electronics including computers, T.V.s, cell phones,

etc., to be recycled.

Thanks to all for coming out for the July 4th parade and donating non perishable food items and monetary gifts for the Westchester Food

Pantry. Please call the Westchester Village Hall at (708)345-0020 if you need help or if you would like to volunteer your services. Judy Saraceno-Swenson

Aging Well of Westchester Presents: “Wellness House-Hinsdale” *Learn Relaxation Techniques for stress

management* Special Performance by comedian Marty Costanza PLEASE JOIN US! Wednesday, July 20, 2011; 1:00 PM; Mayfair Recreation;

10835 Wakefield-Refreshments will be served- Team meeting immediately following from 2:00-3:00 pm. NEW MEMBERS ALWAYS WELCOME. For more

information call Aging Care Connections at (708)354-1323, ext. 242.

CALENDARJULY 2011 5

selected from the rank and file of the Westchester Fire Department. Village Manager Stan Urban had an independent group of three sitting Fire Chiefs from the surrounding area assess and interview the three internal candidates from the department. This process is similar to the process that Village Manager Urban used to select Police Chief April Padalik.

Upon completion of the independent assessment and interview process, Mr. Urban presented to the Board his selection of Lt. James Adams as Chief Belmonte’s replacement. I personally know each of the

candidates and can honestly say that Mr. Urban’s decision had to be a tough one.

Each candidate that was interviewed had many of the qualifications needed to be the next Fire Chief, have dedicated themselves to the Village and the Fire Department, and have admirably served the needs of our community as fire fighters. Chief James Adams knows he has big shoes to fill, but I, along with the entire Village Board, am confident he has the qualifications needed to lead our Fire Department into the future.

VILLAGE ORDINANCES REVIEWED

Chief April Padalik has brought to the Board’s attention a host of issues and potential changes to our Village

ordinances that have become increasingly necessary with our changing times. Items under review are as follows:

Noise Ordinance:Our current ordinance was

authored back in 1930 and needs to reflect present day concerns.

Weight Limits on Residential Streets:

Allowing a maximum of 12 thousand pounds to use residential streets

Expenditure for Outside Fun Fest Security:

Authorizing the contract of additional security officers like we have done for the past several years for extra security. The expenditure will be just over $10,000.

Squad Car Purchase/Lease:Obtain proposals for either

purchase/lease of replacement

squad cars.Intergovernmental Agreement

with Broadview Westchester Water Agency:

Update and amend current agreement to allow resident to sit on executive board, also add language pertaining to superintendent.

Office of Deputy Village President

At my request, I asked and received Village Board authorization to create the office of Deputy President. I have appointed, and the Board has confirmed, the appointment of Trustee Paul Gattuso as Deputy President in the event of my absence. As all of you know, Trustee



Gattuso served as the President of the Village from 2005-2009. Trustee Gattuso is the logical choice to assume the duties of President with all the powers and authority in my absence.

Emergency Telephone System Board

I have appointed Trustee Nick Steker to the Emergency Telephone System Board to replace former Trustee Neil Boyle. Trustee Boyle did a great job monitoring and spending wisely the telecommunication surcharge (cost of utilizing a landline (house phone) or the state collected cellular surcharge money to improve our Emergency 9-1-1 System). Trustee Steker, a career firefighter, will certainly utilize his expertise in assuming his additional role.

Citizen Advisory Board Appointments

I have appointed Carol Terrell, Monika Oakes, Mirika Sentego, and Ruth Gudino as the newest members of the Citizen Advisory Board (CAB). These individuals were affirmed by the entire Village Board. Trustee Thomas Yurkovich is the Village Liaison on the CAB. The CAB meets at 7pm on the second Wednesday of the month in the Village Hall Community Room. All are welcome to attend.

Green Committee Appointments

I have also appointed Colleen Jamison, Eric Keeley, and Debbie Estep as members of our newest committee, the Green Committee. Trustee Walter Novak will be the Liaison to the Committee that is just beginning to formulate. You may contact him at [email protected] if you would like to volunteer to help with green projects such as the e-waste recycling.

Economic Development Committee

I have received and accepted the resignations of Michael Hetzel, Lloyd Obrien, and Samuel Kong from the Economic Development Committee (EDC). I would like to thank each of these members for their contributions to the Village over the past year. I have asked Trustee Frank Perry to be the Liaison to the EDC.

Disposal of Village Owned Property

Westchester participated in the West Central Municipal Conference government property auction on Saturday June 18th. Four vehicles dating back from 1997 to 2004 with up to 133 thousand miles, a 1982 dump truck and various pieces of outdated equipment were auctioned off to the highest bidder. The village will receive approximately $17,000 in proceeds from the auction.

Employee Contracts

Village Manager Mr. Urban and our Village Attorney, Mr. Michael Durkin have been meeting with the 9-1-1 operators, the Clerical Union, and the Public Works Union Local 705, and their representatives regarding wages, insurance and working conditions.

Mr. Urban has informed the board that with continued discussions he is confident that agreements can be decided in a very short time frame. There are 7 9-1-1 operators, 5 clerical personnel, and 16 Public Works employees. Negotiations have also begun for both the Police Officers and Firefighter Unions. There are 22 Police Officers, 7 Police Sergeants, 21 Firefighters, and 4 Fire Lieutenants.

Earlier this spring the Police Sergeants and the Village went to arbitration over issues and the Arbitrator awarded the Police Sergeants a 2% raise, longevity steps adjustments, and an increase in employee insurance contribution to 10 %.

Recently our insurance carrier notified us that there will be an increase in the deductible amount to $500.00 per person. Negotiations are continuing and I will notify you as more information becomes available.

State of the Village

On June 28th at 7pm I gave the

State of the Village Address at St. Joseph H.S. I would like to thank all of the department heads and staff who assisted in the data collection and visual components of the presentation. I would also like to thank all those who attended.

I believe it is very important to communicate with you what has been done, what is being done, and our plans for those things yet to be done. For those of you who were unable to attend, an excerpt of the address will be available online.

Sheriff Dart Medal of Merit Volunteers

Presently I have 4 teenaged volunteers working toward Sheriff Dart’s Medal of Merit Award. If you noticed the beautification of the Westchester Post Office it was done by these volunteers.

Aging Care Connections

The next meeting of the Aging Well Senior Group will be held on Wednesday July 20th at 1pm at the Mayfair Recreation Center located at 10835 Wakefield. The topic of the day will be programs and services available through The Wellness House in Hinsdale. Refreshments will be served. Please call 708-354-1323 ext 242 for more information.

Westchester Fest

The partnership between the Village, the Chamber of Commerce, the Park District, and our host site St Joseph High School, is alive and well as we present the 21st Annual Westchester Fest. I know there are many of you who look forward to the event each year. With the economy being what it is we know that families may not be able to afford a vacation. It is with this thought in mind that the Westchester Fest has survived. In order to continue providing a first rate event during these difficult

economic times, we had to make a change as it relates to the children’s wrist band giveaway. In years past, elected officials were given a set number of wrist bands to distribute to children in town. In fact, just last year the Village spent $19,992.00 on the wrist bands. Despite this generous amount being allocated to this program, there always seemed to be someone who did not get a free one and felt slighted.

As a result, this year a different approach was implemented and made open to all residents. Instead of each elected official being given a set number of wrist bands to distribute, the Board budgeted for, and purchased 300 wrist bands for each day of Fest and offered them directly to the residents a reduced price of $5.00 per wrist band/per day, with a 4 wrist band limit per family. The wrist bands went on sale Monday June 20th at 8:30am. By 10:30am all the wrist bands were sold out for both days. The wrist bands were sold to the Village at a discounted price of $15.00 each, up from $12.00 last year. Your purchase price of $5.00 reduced the Village’s cost of the wrist bands to $10.00 each. The total cost for all of the 600 wrist bands was $6,000.00. There were no free wrist bands for anyone, including elected officials.

The silver/grey wristbands are for use only on Saturday and the yellow wristbands are for use only on Sunday. Each wrist band allows the wearer to ride the carnival rides an unlimited amount of time from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm . Kids, have a great time.

Westchester Chamber of Commcerce event

On Tuesday June 21st I attended a Westchester Chamber of Commerce meeting hosted at the Westchester Primary School (Mary Jane Kennedy School Building). A Leadership Program was presented by Mary Erwin, of LMI, Riverside, Illinois. The focus of the seminar was how balance your business life with family and other concerns in a manner that allows you to maintain focus, and re-direct the efforts of your employees to increase your sales, and their productivity. Thanks to Ms. Erwin, the Chamber of Commerce, and Dr. Sophie for their presentation, facilitation and venue.

Homeland Security and Emergency Management

At Noon on June 21st I met


6 JULY 2011


Retiring Chief Richard E. Belmonte poses with his family at his last meeting on June 16

President

SAM D. [email protected]

Clerk

CATHY [email protected]

Trustees

PAUL GATTUSO [email protected]

WALTER J. NOVAK [email protected]

FRANK PERRY [email protected]

BRIAN A. [email protected]

NICK [email protected]

TOM YURKOVICH [email protected]

Treasurer

BARB [email protected]

Attorney

DONALD STORINO

Village of Westchester10300 Roosevelt RoadWestchester, IL 60154

www.westchester-il.org708-345-0020

Manager

STAN [email protected]

Asst. to the Manager

EMILY [email protected]

Finance Director

JANET [email protected]

Commissioner

DENNIS DIPASQUALE [email protected] Development/ Building – 708 345-0199

Fire Chief

JIM [email protected]

Fire Department, non-emergency: 708-345-0441

Police Chief

APRIL [email protected] Department, non-

emergency: 708-345-0060

Superintendent

JOHN FECAROTTAjfecarotta@westchester-il.

orgPublic Works Department

708-345-0041

The Village newsletter is delivered to over 7200 households on the first Monday of every month.

There are also hundreds of copies distributed at the Library and village businesses.

The current month newsletter is also displayed on the Village homepage, with previous issues posted online indefinitely.

We would like to offer you the opportunity of being a part of the unique community production.

Due to the limited amount of space allotted for advertisements, space will be sold on a “first come, first serve” basis. Ad size will be determined by available ad space per issue.

Ads: must be “camera ready” TIF (preferred) or JPEG files. You can convert pdfs or publisher files to the above picture formats (300 dpi). Ads are submitted directly to: [email protected]

Articles: must be Word doc. (not docx)

Photos: Should be 300 dpi, jpegs preferred.

To secure advertising space, contact us at: [email protected].

All interested parties will receive a confirmation email with deadline, pricing, payment and submittal requirements, all of which will be strictly enforced. All ads are due the 15th of every month with calendar submissions accepted until the 18th.

If you have any questions regarding our newsletter, please feel free to contact Emily Fister or Molly Keane 708/345-0020.

Village of Westchester

Newsletter Advertisement Information 2011

JULY 2011 7

Village of

WestchesterVillage Officials Village Departments and Staff Contacts

PRESIDENTContinued from page 7

with the newly hired Director of the Office of Cook County Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Michael Masters. Director Masters and I had a very productive meeting discussing issues surrounding last year’s flood event as well as law enforcement, fire department mutual aid, terrorist prevention and pre-preparation planning. Director Masters is an attorney who hails from the south side of Chicago, graduated from Harvard Law School, is a veteran of the USMC, and recently worked for Mayor Daley as Chief of Staff in the Chicago Police Department.

I was very impressed by not only his credentials, but his willingness to attend and graduate from the Illinois Law Enforcement and Standards Board Police Academy. We spoke about getting a flood mitigation plan completed by the County as soon as possible so Cook County could apply for and receive our fair share of FEMA Disaster Funds from the federal government.

I offered my services as a police administrator, beat officer and elected official to any task in which I could be of value. Director Masters told me he likes to get out in the field instead of sitting behind a desk, which is something we both have in common.

I look forward to working with Director Masters, President Toni Preckwinkle and Commissioner Bridget Gardner, and our own Commissioner Jeff Tobolski, who have leadership roles as Cook County Homeland Security and Emergency Management Committee members.

The Cook County Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management is responsible for coordinating all homeland security and emergency management efforts across all 134 Cook County municipalities and 30 townships, as well as in all unincorporated areas in Cook County.

DEJA VU

Wind, Rain, Weather…Déjà vu. I initially felt a sigh of relief when we passed the June 18, 2010 anniversary of the micro-burst that decimated the trees along Drury Lane, Balmoral Ave and Westchester Blvd. last year. I guess I should not have been so eager to celebrate that anniversary and the 1st day of summer.

The evening of June 21 2011

again challenged the tenacity of our residents and our municipal services. At about 8:30 pm the sky darkened and the winds began to howl and rain poured down as my wife Maureen and I precariously peered out of our back window into the yard. We saw our lawn chairs, barbecue, and anything not nailed down fly through the air effortlessly defying gravity. We turned to each other and said NOT AGAIN!

Moments later the sky was cast in a pink hue followed by a very bright light. At first blush we thought it was a fire a few blocks west.

However, the absence of smoke and the brightness of the light changed our thinking to an electrical transformer or wires glowing brightly. No sooner did we believe we had identified the problem, when the lights in the sky, as well as those in our home, and most of Westchester and our neighboring municipalities, went out. I knew then that the Village was in for another tough night on “Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride”.

Flashlight in hand, I initiated cell phone communications between myself, Mr. Urban, and Mr. Fecarotta and our Public Works employees were mobilized. After arriving at the Village Hall we immediately gathered all of our equipment and began tackling the removal of the trees from the roadway. Seeing the amount of trees and branches down on resident’s homes, alleyways, electrical wires, and garages I knew this would not be returned to normal in a short period of time.

Com Ed had been called immediately by our Fire and Police Departments to let them know our situation. Our Village hall, Police Department and 9-1-1 room were on generator power.

The total outage Village wide was not immediately known, but in very short order it was confirmed

that the whole Village, minus a few streets, was totally blacked out.Reports were that the whole area was struck with winds in excess of 70 miles per hour. Such velocity results in nothing good.

In fact, Village Manager Urban, while helping our residents received a call from his daughter in Downers Grove whose house had a tree through the roof and into her living room as the rain water poured in.

Newly appointed Fire Chief James Adams started his tenure with a bang, by responding to the Firehouse and taking command of his men as they answered numerous calls for assistance with fire alarm activations, wires down, and well-being checks.

As I was removing trees from the roadway dressed like a public works employee, Trustee Tom Yurkovich arrived on scene with his own chainsaw, and together we began cutting and removing trees along the street until well after 3:00 am. Along the way, we heard from Trustee Frank Perry who was doing the same thing east of Mannheim Rd. As we removed a large tree from Fleet Street, Deputy Mayor Paul Gattuso and Park Commissioner Joe Christopher arrived. We all joined together and used group-brute-force to drag trees and branches out of the way

As always, our Public Works employees, who have been called to action on way too many natural disasters these past few years, arrived in short order and jumped right in. They knew exactly what to do and how to do it. I couldn’t ask for a more dedicated group of professionals. We watched them tackle the most difficult tree removal situations with the greatest of ease and expertise. The bulldozers, bobcats, and dump trucks were out in force.

Our contract tree service, Sinnott

Tree Care, operated by Rick Sinnott, had his crew of operators, chippers, and chainsaws grinding and sawing away late into the early morning hours. Daylight arrived, and they continued their efforts, without so much as a break.

Shortly thereafter, we were fortunate enough to have the Cook County SWAP community service contingent arrive with 10 helpers, followed by a bus full of 20 more. Thereafter my teenaged group of youth earning their Medal of Merit from Sheriff Thomas Dart arrived right at 8am and began raking leaves and removing tree branches in the area of Balmoral, Pelham, Cambridge, and Kipling. Mrs. Antes a resident from Pelham Street even supplied them with power drinks to keep them hydrated as they worked along Pelham. Thank You Mrs. Andes.

Com Ed representatives arrived at the Village Hall about 10:00 am just after the Village Hall came back on line. We went over the outage maps provided by our own 9-1-1 Supervisor Greg Hribal who I know was at the police center from before the time the siren was sounded to the wee hours of the morning and back again before daylight. Greg is one of the most dedicated village employees who I have ever had the pleasure to hire away from the old Browns Chicken, back in the day.

Being the former Manager of Westchester’s 9-1-1 system, I know first-hand what our telecommunicators do and how stressful and extremely busy the center can be in a weather related emergency. Upon my arrival, Lisa Dybas, and Tracy Celestino were bouncing around from phone line to emergency radio transmissions supplying the police officers and firefighters the necessary information required or requested to see this emergency through.

The short time I watched them in action certainly brought flashbacks of storms many years ago. Also in the room was one of our new officers Adam Rauglas. I’m sure after watching him assist with the nights’ event he is glad he is on patrol and not assigned to communications on a permanent basis.

I am very proud of our employees no matter who they are or what department they work for. I’ve seen them in action when the rubber hits the road, or better yet, when the rain hits the streets, and I truly believe they are a reflection of what makes Westchester such a GREAT PLACE TO LIVE.

Thanks also to all the residents who helped pull the branches off the street and onto the parkway. As they say .. “it truly does take a Village ……”

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Trustee Wally Novak and Manager Stan Urban assist a resident with the disposal of e-waste at the June 11 Electronics Recycling Program

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PUZZLEJULY 2011 13

Westchester Blood ProgramOur aim, our ONLY aim, is to save lives.

The Program has become one of the most productive community-affiliated groups of its kind in the state and is affiliated with LifeSource Blood Center. Blood is sent to area hospitals and

trauma centers to save or prolong the lives of severely ill patients or accident victims.

On average, one unit can save up to three patients.Donating blood costs nothing, just a few minutes. The donation

of blood is safe and swift, normally taking no more than 45 minutes.

If you are generally healthy, over age 17 (or 16 with parental permission), at least 110 pounds and are not taking blood

thinners or antibiotics, you are eligible to donate a unit (pint) of blood.

Keep this in mind: Until scientists can develop a synthetic substitute for blood, only human beings can provide hospitals

with that life-giving fluid.

Upcoming drive dates and sites: Saturday, July 17 2010, Divine Providence School, 8:15 a.m. to 3

p.m. Saturday, October 16 2010, Community Center, 8:15 a.m. to 3

p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 10 2010, Westchester Community Church, 2

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2011 Street Improvements Project

The 2011 Street Improvements project is nearing completion. Construction has been completed on Concord Avenue, Camelot Street, Waverly Avenue, and Somerset Square except for a few clean-up issues. Pell Street, Cambridge Street, and Balmoral should also be at completion at receipt of this newsletter. Construction on Windsor Drive, from Mayfair to Sunnyside was delayed until summer break for the Westchester Primary School.

Work on Windsor is progressing and should be complete by mid-July. After

the major construction is complete, there may be some minor landscaping and sidewalk work that may need to be done.

All work should be complete by September, 2011. Any questions, please contact Hope Garrett, Project Manager, Village of Westchester, at 708-345-0020.

Water Mains: Fleet and Preston

The 2011 Water Main Improvement Project is nearing completion. All water main work has been finished and all homes along Fleet and

Sunnyside in the project area have been transferred to the new water main.

Restoration work has started. New curb and gutter is being placed in locations where the water main was replaced.

Once that is completed, a six foot wide asphalt patch will be placed along the north side of the streets where the new water main was installed.

The project will also include new sod in the construction area for restoration purposes. Any questions, please contact Hope Garrett, Project Manager, Village of Westchester, at 708-345-0020.

2011 Water Tower Painting

The Village of Westchester will be performing a much needed painting of the interior of the water tank starting in September. In order to paint the inside of the “bowl” it needs to be drained completely for a period of a few months. During this time, the Village would ask that residents refrain from using water to water lawns and other high-use water activities. Please do not water your lawn during the months of September and October, 2011. The water tower will be drained at these times and excessive use of water could cause water pressure dips throughout the system.

Public Works Department

Branch pick-up continues to be the first full week of every month.

PW Branch pick-up will be the following dates:

July 11-15, August 1-5, Sept. 5-9 , October 3-7 and last pickup for year November 7-11

*Monday: From Mannheim Road west to Wolf Road and from Canterbury south to Windsor, including both sides of Windsor Drive; Also, Waterford, Waverly, Camelot and Concord.

*Tuesday: Roosevelt Road south to Cermak Road- from Gardner Road west to Mannheim Road.

*Wednesday: From Roosevelt Road north to the expressway and from Gardner Road west to Mannheim Road; Roosevelt south to Canterbury from Haase west to Heidorn.

*Thursday: From Belleview west to Wolf Road, Martindale Drive to 31st Street.

For a map of branch pick up schedule log on: www.westchester-il.org.

Please remember that all landscaping contractors are responsible for their own brush pick-up and disposal.

Don’t Forget…. Waste Management will pick up your branches, bushes, etc. as long as they are tied in bundles and no more than 4’ in length. These are picked up every week, on your regular garbage day.

Parkway Tree Program

The Village parkway tree program gives you the opportunity to add to the curb appeal of your home. The program is 50/50 shared cost and includes the purchase and planting of the trees. Residents have a choice of four types of trees indigenous to the area. Trees are planted in fall 2011. Call Public Works at 708- 345-0041 for more information

Public Works is currently crackfilling the streets in town. You will be notified within 48 hours of when this will start in your area, weather permitting.

Public Works has many crews on the streets- painting curbs,filling potholes, crackfilling, grading alleys, repairing parkways, preparing for the 4th of July Parade and the Westchester Fun Fest, etc. Please slow down and give them a brake!

As always, Village residents are asked to call Public Works at 708/345-0041 or 708/345-0060 (the Police non-emergency number) if you see an unusual amount of water

in the street or parkways. This could be a main break or water leak that requires our immediate attention.

Sprinkling Ban Reminder

We have water use restrictions in effect every year:

May 15- September 15, from 12 pm-6 pm,

These restrictions include:

Outdoor Watering (2) Cleaning Outdoor Surfaces (3)

Cleaning Buildings (4) Pool Filling

Sprinkling during unrestricted hours (before noon, after 6 pm) shall be allowed on even numbered days for those even numbered addresses, and on odd numbered days for those residents having odd numbered addresses.

If we have a dry summer, further restrictions may be necessary.

If you have any questions or concerns about any Public Works or water related issues, please feel free to contact us at 708-345-0041.

Construction crews placing the final surface layer of asphalt on Concord Avenue.

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Documents

July 2011 Newsletter