September 2014 Village of Westchester Newsletter

Village of

Westchester September 2014 Newsletter

From the Desk of The President WESTCHESTER IN PICTURES

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FIRE DEPARTMENT

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POLICE DEPARTMENT

4 Picture description: Lt. Jeff Mersch was acknowledged on his retirement from the Westchester Police Department. Pictured are President Pulia, Chief Carpino, Lt. Mersch, son Dan Mersch and wife Nancy Mersch.

SCHOOL DISTRICT

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PARK DISTRICT

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LIBRARY

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PUBLIC WORKS

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Today is LABOR DAY in the United States. It is a Federal and State holiday celebrated on the first Monday in September. The holiday celebrates the American labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of workers. Labor Day was promoted by the Central Labor Union and the Knights of Labor, who organized the first parade in Union Square, New York City in 1882.

President Grover Cleveland established the date of the first Monday in September 1887. The parade was designed to exhibit to the public “the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations� followed by a festival for workers and their families.

In addition to the positive recognition organized labor has done to improve the lives of workers, it also marks the end of summer. In high society, Labor Day is considered the last day of the year when it is fashionable to wear white.

NFL and college football teams also mark the beginning of their seasons.

For more information on Labor Day visit www. wikipedia.org.

SCHOOL IS BACK IN SESSION Back in the day, the day after Labor Day was usually the first day of school. However, today most schools begin classes in late August to the chagrin of children and to the delight of their parents. With our school year beginning and children going to and from school riding bikes, buses, and on foot, school safety is a primary concern for all of us. Being a police officer for 40 years and following the unimaginable incidents of school violence since Columbine, we all need to be concerned about the safety of all of our children. I know that Chief John Carpino and our School Resource Officer Rob Verber as well as all of our fine professional police officers and community service officers will be vigilant in our school patrols and partnerships with school officials in providing the safest commute to/ from school and the safest learning experience possible. Being a past school board president, I can tell you the increase in security measures and training has progressed since the Laurie Dann event occurring in Winnetka back in 1988 some 27 years ago.

See PRESIDENT, page 5

Westchester 2

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Pictures

Fire Department SEPTEMBER 2014

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Police Department 4

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How to prevent school-based bullying Bullying consequences continue throughout a student’s school years and beyond. School-based programs to prevent bullying typically focus on counseling bullies and their victims, teaching a victim to be assertive, and establishing clear school policies that reinforce consequences for aggressive behavior. School officials train teachers and other staff to recognize bullies and their victims and refer both to counseling. School policies against fighting, taunting, and other bullying behaviors are made clear to both students and parents.

Another resource for information about preventing the bully is: National Crime Prevention Council 1000 Connecticut Avenue, NW, 13th Floor Washington, DC 20036 www.ncpc.org Stop the Bullying It’s everyone’s responsibility to stop bullying. And don’t be afraid to get help when necessary. It takes courage, but you will be preventing the intimidation from continuing and possibly escalating. You can report the problem to authorities anonymously. * Refuse to participate in taunting and teasing.

Police blotter

1) At 12:32 pm on July 16th 2014, a Residential Burglary was reported on the 1800 block of Stratford. The resident reported that while mowing the lawn, unknown person(s) removed jewelry and money from the house.

* Treat others the way you would like to be treated.

* Hand out with friends who don’t get involved in bullying.

* Tell adults if you witness cruelty or hear about violence that might occur. * Walk away from fights.

* Stand up for others who are being intimidated. * Include the person who is being bullied in your activities.

* Speak out against the bully. * Show compassion for the victim. * Stand tall and walk with confidence and in a way that commands respect.

Newcastle The resident reported that unknown person(s) entered their unlocked vehicle and removed a GPS unit.

5) At 5:29 pm on July 22nd 2014, a Theft was reported on the 1600 Block of Mannheim Road. A resident 2) At 9:04 am on July 17th 2014, reported that unknown person(s) a Burglary to Motor Vehicle was removed two packages delivered by reported at the Hampton Inn located UPS. at 2222 Enterprise Drive. The victim reported that unknown person(s) 6) At 11:37 pm on July 25th 2014, a broke out the window to their Stolen Auto was Recovered on the vehicle while it was parked and 800 block of Manchester. Utilizing removed an IPAD and a GPS unit. our License Plate Recognition system (LPR), an officer was alerted 3) At 11:30 am on July 18th 2014, a to a vehicle that was reported Commercial Burglary was reported stolen from Chicago. The vehicle at 1 Westbrook Corporate Center. was unoccupied at the time of the An employee of a business in tower sighting.

1 reported that unknown person(s) entered his offices and removed 7) At 12:25 pm on July 29th 2014, money and a phone charging a Theft was reported at the Jewel system.

Foods Store located at 2128 Mannheim Road. A resident reported 4) At 10:46 am on July 20th 2014, that unknown person(s) removed a a Burglary to Motor Vehicle was checkbook from their shopping cart reported on the 700 block of while shopping in the store.

Take Action

* Work with the school administration and get students together to develop or revise your school’s code of conduct. * Organize a teen panel or discussion group to talk about issues of bullying and intimidation at your school.

SEE IT ~ HEAR IT ~ REPORT IT For additional information or assistance relating to Bullying please feel free to contact our School Resource Officer Rob Verber at (708) 345-0060 Ext. 440.

SEPTEMBER 2014

PRESIDENT

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event will be held at Community Park from 5pm to 9pm. There will be a free pool party with DJ music Continued from page 1 Instruct your children if anyone poolside from 5pm to 8pm. There they don’t know or a person who will be moon jumps, face painting, I came upon an article from confuses, scares, or makes them feel refreshments and more! The Village the Office of Juvenile Justice and uncomfortable offers a ride, say NO. will host the LEGO Movie in our Delinquency Prevention of the U. S. Children should never hitchhike. continuing movie in the park Department of justice that I would Also children should never accept program. The movie will begin at like to share. a ride from anyone unless you have dusk. Come out and join the fun! told them it is OK to do so in each instance.

KNOW THE RULES

For Going To and From School More Safely: Everyday millions of children take to the streets and roadways to get to and from school. They walk, ride their bicycles, take buses, and arrive in vehicles with one purpose - getting to and from school safely.

Every year approximately 440,000 public school buses travel more than 4 billion miles and daily transport 24 million children to and from school and school-related activities.

For many children this experience is a new one, and they may not understand the safety rules, Young children do not have the same frame of reference for safety that adults do.

They may not “look before they leap,” which is why it is so important for families to supervise young children and practice safety skills with their children. The tip noted below will help prepare your children for a safer journey.

Instruct your child to always TAKE A FRIEND when walking or riding his or her bike to and from school.

It’s safer and more fun to be with your friends. Walk and ride in welllit areas, and never take short cuts.

When walking and biking stay aware of your surroundings and observe all traffic rules in place to more safely share the roads and sidewalks with others.

Even though there is safety in numbers, it is still not safe for young children to walk to and from school alone, especially if they must take isolated routes before or during daylight. Always provide supervision for young children to ensure their safe arrival to and from school.

Your child should stay with a group while waiting at the bus stop. If anyone bothers your child while going to or from school, you should teach him or her to get away from that person and TELL you or another trusted adult. If an adult approaches your child for help or directions, remember grownups needing help should not ask children for help; they should ask other adults.

You should visit the bus stop with your children and learn the bus number. This will avoid confusion

have attached my Robo Call that was distributed on August 13th for your edification. It stated the following: “Good Afternoon. This is President Sam Pulia. The Village of Westchester has received a low interest loan from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency to repaint the exterior of our 2 million gallon above ground water tank located at Cermak and I294.

Effective tomorrow, Thursday, August 14th,through Friday, October 31st, a STREET LIGHT UPDATE Mandatory water ban will be in effect I am hopeful that by the time you while the tank is being painted. The Tell your children if anyone follows them on foot to get away from him are reading this article that all of ban is necessary because the water or her as quickly as possible. If the inoperative street lamps located level inside the tank has been lowered anyone follows them in a vehicle east of Mannheim Rd. between to allow the project to proceed. The they should turn around, go in the the I290 and Cermak Road have ban is critical to allow for sufficient other direction, and try to quickly been repaired and in good working water supply in the event of a fire get to a spot where a trusted adult order. Additional surge suppression or significant water main break. The may help them. Advise them to be equipment has been added to ban will cover all outdoor water use, sure to TELL you or another trusted the street light control boxes and including lawn watering, pool filling, on individual poles to avoid the sidewalk washing, exterior house adult what happened. occurrence of such a widespread cleaning. The ban will not apply to Teach your children if anyone outage in the future. None of the newly placed sod or newly seeded tries to take them somewhere they elected officials or staff are happy lawns. The odd/even day restrictions should quickly get away and yell, about the length of time it has taken will still apply to these exceptions.

“THIS PERSON IS TRYING TO TAKE to secure the necessary replacement Violators of the water ban will be ME AWAY” or “THIS PERSON IS NOT parts. No one believed the repair fined up to $500. A separate offense MY MOTHER/FATHER/GUARDIAN.” would have taken from June 24th shall be deemed committed on each If anyone tries to grab them, teach until now to be resolved. If I could day during or on which a violation them to make a scene and make have had a driver pick up the parts, occurs or continues. Please adhere every effort to get away by kicking, trust me I would have. But it seems to these temporary restrictions.” no matter what you want to purchase Robert Lewis, Public Works Director, screaming, and resisting. now-a-days it is never in stock and has stated it is a little known fact that Children should be taught to never has to be made. Unfortunately, residential lawn sprinkling accounts leave school with anyone they don’t when the July newsletter was being for approximately 60% of water know. They should always CHECK printed to be delivered on July 2nd, consumption during the seasonal FIRST with you or another trusted we believed whole heartily that the months in Northeastern Illinois. adult. If anyone tells them there is lights would have been restored An average lawn sprinkler system an emergency and they want your before the August issue was delivered can use 500 – 800 gallons of water children to go with them, your on August 4th. I did not believe a per day. If you multiply that by the child should always CHECK FIRST ROBO call was warranted as the number of homes we have in town before doing anything. Make sure matter was explained in our August (approximately 7,000), you can your children understand to TELL a issue. Thanks for your patience and understand why we need to call for a watering ban for outside use of water trusted adult if they notice anyone understanding. to preserve our water levels in the they don’t know hanging around the event of a fire or water main break. school. for your children about knowing what bus to ride.

WATER BAN

Walk the route to and from school with your children pointing out landmarks and safe places to go if they are being followed or need help. Make a map with your children showing acceptable routes to school, using main roads, and avoid shortcuts and isolated areas. The map will be a good guide if your children ever need help finding their way.

Remember to practice these safety rules with your children to make certain they really know and understand them. Make the walk to and from school a “teachable moment” and chance to put their skills to the test.

BACK TO SCHOOL EVENT On Friday, September 5th, the Westchester Park District is hosting its annual Back to School Event. The

Thank you to all of our residents and business owners for complying with our necessary temporary water ban. The ban, currently in effect through the month of October, is necessary to provide enough water to continue basic use without putting an unnecessary strain on the water system. There are 1.5 million gallons of water held in the above/ below ground potable (drinking) water reservoir at Crestwood Lane and Mannheim Road that is fully operational. The 2 million gallon overhead water tank located at I294 and Cermak Road has been lowered to allow the exterior to be repainted.

The cold water inside the tank with the outside warm temperature allows for condensation to form on the outside walls of the tank preventing the application of paint to adhere properly. For those of you who may not be in our phone data base, I

MUSIC FESTIVAL REVIEW On Saturday, August 16th,the Village, Park District, School District, and Chamber of Commerce came together to provide another event for the enjoyment of our residents, friends, and invited guests.

The Special Events group led by staffer Katy Finn worked hard to bring this event to fruition. At 3pm crooner Chris Colletti sang away to a small but intimate group of people remembering the good old days of Sinatra and Rat Pack type songs.

Our second group was Ring, Shout and Friends let by local resident Kevin McDermott and friends with instrumental jazz type music.

The headliner for the night was Heartache Tonight, an Eagles tribute band who really belted out the

See PRESIDENT, page 6

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SEPTEMBER 2014

PRESIDENT

40 year law enforcement officer, I need to recognize details of the officers’ alertness and going above Continued from page 5 and beyond as a job WELL DONE. Officers have also been able to make tunes and sounds of the Eagles to an an arrest for residential burglary enthusiastic crowd. At the conclusion where our evidence technicians of the music, we were all delighted were able to lift fingerprints from with the terrific fireworks display by the crime scene. Normally, sending a Flashing Thunder Fireworks owned fingerprint to the State of Illinois takes and operated by Hursen’s Funeral close to a year to be processed and Home owner Anthony Rainiero. get a reply depending on priorities Several times throughout the display and the severity of the case as they we thought the show was going to receive thousand of fingerprints to end, however the sky continued to run every year. We were able to get a be streaming red, white, green, and match on both suspects within fortyblue streams of light and explosive eight hours by utilizing the services booms. For those living close to of an authorized private vendor that the launch site, I hope the noise has real-time access to fingerprint associated with the explosions was records. Chief Carpino, through his able tolerable. For those viewing the resources in law enforcement, was display from the High Ridge Park and able to connect with this private Westchester Intermediate School and vendor and access their services. in chairs in back yards throughout Thanks, Chief! I know you are as town, we could not have been more proud of the men and women of the impressed. department as I and the rest of the Thanks to all of our Chamber of board are.

Commerce volunteers who operated the liquor sales, the Westchester ACCESSIBLE PARKING UPDATE Over the past few years I have Park District for soft drinks and water sales, our EMA volunteers, received complaints from disabled the Westchester Fire Department residents and visitors of businesses personnel who manned the EMT not having accessible parking for tent and the IAFF Professional people with disabilities. The police Firefighters Union who sold Lezzo’s department was directed to and Italian Ice and ran a benefit 50/50 surveyed all of the local businesses raffle as a fundraiser for a firefighter and compiled a list of those sites with a debilitating disease. Thanks with incorrect fine amounts, missing to Sugar Mama’s who has been signs, and improper markings. Our involved in several of our summer Community Development Director events for providing delicious snacks. has been doing research regarding The Westchester Civic Theatre what our municipal code allows, volunteers were out promoting their what the State of Illinois requires, as upcoming play “Almost Maine”; they well as the Federal Americans with are commended for furthering the Disability Act (ADA) requirements as ability of residents to be entertained it applies to accessible parking and locally in community theatre. Finally, proper markings.

The American with Disability Act a big “Thank You” to St. Joseph H.S. who allowed us to use their grounds was approved in 1990. Unfortunately, like other things I have found over my to launch the fireworks display.

This is the first time this type of tenure, the ADA requirements were event was held at High Ridge Park not enforced or properly brought and, with all new things, the first to the attention of business owners one will be evaluated and reviewed by local government. Compliance to make it better. Thankfully the letters have been sent to business weather cooperated. We had a owners (what I will call the low beautiful event and an excellent hanging fruit) to update and correct crescendo for the organizers and the the signage presently in place. The second phase of the compliance attendees. initiative will be addressing those KUDOS TO OUR POLICE businesses that do not have any A commendation for a job well signage but are required by law done is in order to members of our to do so. As mentioned above, the police department and Chief John ADA laws have been on the books M. Carpino. During the month of for some 24 years now. I have been August, our midnight shift officers unable at the time of this writing made an arrest of what I consider a to find any exemptions to the law “crew” who were caught burglarizing to allow businesses not to have an and stealing copper and other items accessible parking space available. from businesses along Gardner Road I am aware many small businesses and in the Village of Broadview. The only have a few parking spots and a crew was using walkie-talkie devices hardship would be created to convert to direct the thievery. As a veteran those spots to provide an accessible

parking space. Based on what I know today, the State of Illinois, and local governmental entities can only make the Federal law more stringent, not less stringent. The Village Board is addressing the matter. I have attached the State of Illinois brochure provided

by Attorney General Lisa Madigan to help guide this discussion.

over 1,000 20 plus 1 for each 100 over 1,000

Medical facilities specializing in treatment .................................. 20% of total number of parking spaces Outpatient medical facilities .......... ............................................... 10% of total number Accessible Parking: Know the Defending Your Rights Rules Disability Rights: Location Accessible Parking for People with Accessible parking spaces must Disabilities be placed on level pavement on Accessible Parking Brochure (PDF) the shortest accessible route to an Accessible Parking Brochure en accessible entrance. If a curb ramp Español (PDF) already exists, the accessible space  may be placed near the ramp, even A Guide to Your Rights Under the if it means placing the space further Law from the accessible entrance. If a curb Illinois residents with disabilities ramp is new, both the curb ramp and deserve the same high quality of the accessible parking space must life as non-disabled residents. The be placed closest to the accessible Office of the Attorney General is entrance. A curb ramp must never dedicated to tearing down barriers be built into the diagonally-striped to accessibility for people with access aisle of an accessible parking disabilities and replacing them with space. compassion and common sense.

Size and Markings The Disability Rights Bureau strives Each accessible parking space, to make schools, the workplace, except on-street spaces, shall be 16 and all public facilities open and feet wide, with either an eight-foot available to everyone. Questions and wide or five-foot wide diagonally complaints about accessible parking striped access aisle. A high quality represent the largest category of yellow paint,manufactured especially inquiries to the Bureau. for pavement striping, must be used.

This brochure was developed to Adjacent accessible parking spaces clarify accessible parking laws. If you cannot share a common access aisle. have a question, see an improperly Signs marked accessible parking spaces or A U.S. Department of Transportation find a facility without any accessible R7-8 (Reserved Parking) and a R7-I101 parking spaces at all, please contact ($250 fine) sign must be mounted the Disability Rights Bureau. on a permanent post no lower It is the goal of the Office of the than five feet from the pavement.

Attorney General to ensure full The post must be mounted in the accessibility for all Illinois residents. center of the 16-foot wide accessible What is Accessible Parking? parking space, no more than five Any facility offering parking for feet from the front of the parking employees or visitors must provide space. Municipalities may impose a accessible parking for people with larger fine (up to $350) through the disabilities. An accessible parking adoption of a local ordinance. space consists of a vehicle space and To Register a Complaint a striped access aisle.The entire space Individuals who see improperly must be kept clear of obstructions marked accessible parking spaces, at all times, including ice, snow, or facilities with no such spaces, can shopping carts, trash cans, seasonal register their complaint with the garden displays, and bicycle racks.

Disability Rights Bureau.

Space Requirements 500 South Second Street To comply with Illinois law, a Springfield, Illinois 62706 minimum number of accessible 1-217-524-2660 parking spaces must be provided: TTY: 1-877-844-5461 Total Off Street Parking Spaces 100 West Randolph Street Provided Number of Accessible Chicago, Illinois 60601 Parking Spaces Required 1-312-814-5684 1 to 25 1 TTY: 1-800-964-3013 26 to 50 2 1001 East Main Street 51 to 75 3 Carbondale, Illinois 62907 76 to 100 4 1-618-529-6400 101 to 150 5 TTY: 1-877-675-9339 151 to 200 6 STREET PATCHING 201 to 300 7 Our in-house street patching has 301 to 400 8 401 to 500 9 See PRESIDENT, page 11 501 to 1,000 2% of total number

Calendar SEPTEMBER 2014

Library returns to normal hours: Monday-Thursday 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM, Friday 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM, Saturday 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Sunday 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM.

Tuesday, September 2

information, contact the school office at 865-0122.

Women of Providence (Quilters) Ministry Center, Divine Providence, Newcomers Welcome

Friday, September 5

Westchester’s Park District annual Board of Education Committee of Back to School Picnic and Pool the Whole Mtg. at WMS (6:30 PM) Party.

WIS Beginner Band Recruitment 5pm-9:30pm, Community Center Divine Infant Jesus School Advisory Park, Movie in the Park featuring The Board Meeting at 7:00 pm at the Lego Movie!

Rectory, 1601 Newcastle Avenue.

The DI Annual Student Walkathon For more information, contact the will be held from 12:30 – 2:40 pm school office at 865-0122. at Divine Infant Jesus School, 1640 Newcastle Registration begins for Youth and Avenue.

For more information, Teen programs at Library. Contact contact the Youth Dept at (708) 562-3573 to school office at 865-0122. Sponsor register. a student today!

First Friday Adoration, Divine Providence, Opening Prayers 8AM AMBASSADORS (Grades 7th–12th) until Benediction at 7PM, Ministry 6:45 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Center Chapel Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. 12 Step Program (Courage to Love), Cermak Rd. Westchester, IL 60154 Divine Providence, 7:30PM, Ministry www.westchesterbiblechurch.org Center

Wednesday, September 3

Adult Bible Study-“Forgiveness”/ Pray Meeting 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Rd. Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org

Saturday, September 6

Scrapbooking 9:30 am - 11:30 pm - 2 meals and beverages all day.

Stretch out at a table and layout all your Scrapbooking supplies, work uninterrupted or visit with other scrapbookers for tips and tricks - the cost is $30 per person for the whole day or $15 for 1/2 day. Westchester WIS Beginner Band Recruitment Community Church, 865-1282 Divine Infant Jesus School will All School mass at 8:00 am at Divine Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Newcastle host its “5th Annual DI Miles for Miracles 5k Race and 1 Mile Health Avenue.

Come join us. For more information, Walk” on school grounds at 1640 contact the school office at 865- Newcastle Avenue. Sign up fees: 5k run $25; 1 Mile Health Walk $22.

0122.

Register on-line at https://www.

Divine Providence and Divine signmeup.com/site/online-eventInfant Over 50 Meeting, 1:30pm, registration/102615/SMUCalendar or on race day until 7:30 am at the Mayfair Room Tai Chi Wellness. 4:30-5:30pm, school. Award Presentations will be at the finish line tent at 9:15 am.

Divine Providence Church Narthex All participants will receive a shortThursday, September 4 sleeved T-shirt. For more information, WIS Beginner Band Recruitment email DImilesformiracles@yahoo.

WMS Curriculum Night (6:30 PM- com or call Kevin Lah at 708-3438:00 PM) 7728.

Vision & Hearing testing at Divine The Divine Infant School Advisory Infant Jesus School, 1640 Newcastle Board is sponsoring a “Back to School Avenue.

Family Fun Fest” at 1640 Newcastle Students in Pre-School,Kindergarten Avenue from 12:00 – 4:00 pm. Event and second grades will have their is Free, food and beverages will be hearing and vision tested, students in available for sale. Activities include grades 5 and 8 will have their vision Bouncy Houses/”Big Splash”, face tested and students in grades 1 and painting, musical games, stories from 3 will have their hearing tested. For the library, and a visit from “Windy more information, contact the school City Reptiles” (weather permitting). office at 865-0122.

For more information, contact the school office at 708-865-0122.

“Meet the Teacher” / Parent Sunday, September 7 Orientation night will be held at 7:00 Morning Worship Service/Evening pm. at Divine Infant Jesus School, 1640 Newcastle Avenue. For more Worship Service

10:45 a.m. / 6:00 p.m.

Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Rd. Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org Sunday School – Small Groups Bible Study-“Truth Revealed” 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Rd. Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org

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contact the school office at 8650122.

Table Grace (Grace Lutheran and Divine Providence), 11:30AM to 1PM, All are welcome, bring bag lunch, D.P. Ministry Center Tai Chi Wellness. 4:30-5:30pm, Divine Providence Church Narthex

Thursday, September 11

Join us for a solemn Bell Ceremony remembering 9/11, at 8:30AM at the Fountain EC/PreK Screening at WPS Divine Infant “Back to School Mass” and Installation of the School (appointment only) WIS Curriculum Night (6:30 PMAdvisory Board Members will take place at 9:30 am, 8:00 PM) immediately followed by breakfast in Friday, September 12 Langan Hall at Divine Infant Jesus Vision & Hearing testing at Divine Church, 1600 Newcastle Avenue. For more information, contact the school Infant Jesus School, 1640 Newcastle Avenue. office at 865-0122.

Students in Pre-School,Kindergarten Sunday Morning - 9:00 AM Divine and second grades will have their Service setting , Faith Lutheran hearing and vision tested, students in grades Church 5 and 8 will have their vision tested Holy Communion is every Sunday; and students in grades 1 and 3 will it is so good and important to dine at the table of our Lord for spiritual have their hearing tested. For more strength and the forgiveness of sins. information, contact the school office at 865Liturgy settings will vary, and see 0122. the Facebook site for updates.

Special Event: Weekend of the Tuesday, September 9 Cross Faith Lutheran Church Village Board Meeting, 7:00PM You are invited to join us for a fellowship dinner at 6pm. Following Join the fun of Cub dinner Pastor Schlecht will reflect on Scouts! Westchester Cub Scout Pack Prayer and its significance for our 73 is hosting an open house and lives. On Sunday join for worship as ice cream social at 7:00 pm at the we focus on the Christ of the Cross Westchester Community Church, who brought salvation to the world..

1840 Westchester Blvd. Boys in 12 Step Program (Courage to Love), 1st through 4th grades are invited Divine Providence, 7:30PM, Ministry to attend a meeting and enjoy Center scouting activities. All boys must be Saturday, September 13 accompanied by an adult. For more Electronic Recycling, 9AM-11Am information email cspack73@gmail. behind the Fire Department on com.

WPS Curriculum Night (6:30 PM- Roosevelt Road Religious Education Classes, (K-6 8:00 PM) grades), Divine Providence School, Wednesday, September 10 9:30-11:30AM AMBASSADORS (Grades 7th–12th) Shopping certificates sold after all 6:45 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. weekend Masses-Divine Providence Westchester Bible Church Sunday, September 14 10600 W. Cermak Rd. Morning Worship Service/Evening Westchester, IL 60154 Worship Service www.westchesterbiblechurch.org 10:45 a.m. / 6:00 p.m.

Westchester Bible Church Adult Bible Study-“Forgiveness”/ 10600 W. Cermak Rd. Pray Meeting Westchester, IL 60154 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. www.westchesterbiblechurch.org Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Rd. Sunday School – Small Groups Bible Westchester, IL 60154 Study-“Truth Revealed” www.westchesterbiblechurch.org 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Westchester Bible Church All School mass at 8:00 am at Divine 10600 W. Cermak Rd. Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Newcastle Avenue.

See CALENDAR, page 17 Come join us. For more information,

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SEPTEMBER 2014

School District SEPTEMBER 2014

School Dist. 92.5 News and Notes Westchester Primary School

arriving to school on time without notice from the parent or guardian All of us at WPS are incredibly excited are considered truant. Per policy to begin another school year. Seeing all 7:70, a “truant” is a child subject to of the children back at school has been compulsory school attendance and exciting and we have enjoyed hearing who is absent without valid cause all about their summer adventures.We from such attendance for a school look forward to a year of growth and day or portion thereof. A “chronic or encouraging them both academically habitual truant”is a child who is absent and socially is our greatest joy. But, without valid cause for 5 percent or above all, it is our communication more of the days he or she has been and partnership with one another enrolled in school. that allows our children to succeed. It is our teamwork between home and In many cases, absences from school that will carry our children school are unavoidable due to health onto many successful achievements problems or other circumstances. over the course of their educational Vacations, athletic tournaments journey. and similar events are considered unexcused absences.

Chronic At this time, I would like to take a absenteeism can have a drastic moment to welcome the newest staff impact on your child’s education members joining the WPS family. and reduce opportunities for success Ms. Valerie Pater – Early Childhood/ in school. Truancy has been clearly Pre-K Teacher identified as one of the early warning Mrs. Rosemary Malek – signs of students headed for potential Paraprofessional coming to us from delinquent activities, social isolation WMS or educational failure via suspension, Mrs. Judy Sardinas- Health Clerk expulsion or dropping out and should Mrs. Gina Chayka-Building Secretary not be ignored. Westchester Public Schools staff members are eager As an early childhood, kindergarten, to work with parents/guardians to first and second grade building, we ensure that schools are responsive deliver a unified and collaborative to the unique needs of each child. grade level teaming ability.We strive to We want to help each child achieve deliver the best expertise, knowledge, success in school. wisdom, and above all, a nurturing environment with our staff to develop Westchester Middle School a highly synchronized grade level Curriculum Night curricular and instructional center On September 4, 2014, Westchester concept.

Middle School hosted its curriculum It is going to be a wonderful school night. Parents started with a welcome year and I look forward to spending presentation from Mr. Leban and time with our children with the continued the evening by following primary goal of ensuring rewarding their students schedule to meet each of their teachers.This was a wonderful experiences for all. event to welcome everyone back to We would also like to invite start out the school year. all parents and guardians to our Destination Imagination Curriculum Night that will take On September 18, Westchester place on September 9th beginning at 6:30pm. On this evening you will be Middle and Intermediate School able to hear a presentation from the hosted a Destination Imagination principal, Mrs. Lori Henkels, sharing Parent Information meeting. This is important information regarding District 92½’s third year participating school procedures, educational in the Destination ImagiNation updates as well as curriculum and program.Destination ImagiNation is an instruction for the school year.You will educational program in which student then be allowed to visit classrooms to teams solve open-ended Challenges meet your child’s teacher and learn and present their solutions. Teams about their classroom. Mark this date are tested to think on their feet, work on your calendars! You do not want to together and devise original solutions that satisfy the requirements of the miss this event!

Challenges. Students gain more than just basic knowledge and skills—they District Info learn to unleash their imaginations and take unique approaches to problem Truancy Students who are absent or not solving.We are hoping to have 7 teams

represent Westchester Public Schools at the regional conference in March.

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first Early Childhood screening for the 2014-2015 school term. Our screening takes place on Sept.11 at 8th Grade Fundraiser the Westchester Primary School for Our 8th graders will be going students between the ages of 3-5. on their annual Washington, D.C. Please call (708) 498-0069 for an Educational Tour in May. To assist in appointment. lowering the cost of the tour, students may participate in a fundraiser.

We have a few new additions to Students sell cookie dough, candy and our Special Needs department. We magazines to family members, friends welcome Ms. Valerie Pater to WPS as and neighbors. If you are asked to our Early Childhood teacher. Ms. Pater purchase an item, please consider is a resident of Westchester and looks supporting this educational tour. The forward to working with her students. fundraiser runs from September 8-24. Westchester Intermediate School has Students will deliver products the last three new Special Needs staff. First, week of October.

Ms. Margaret Xenakis is thrilled to be providing Speech and Language Westchester Intermediate services to our students. Ms. Xenakis is also a resident of Westchester.

It’s been a busy summer here at WIS! The custodial staff has been hard at Next, Ms. Melanie Duffy will be work making sure every part of the teaching our self-contained third and school shines and looks beautiful fourth grade classroom. Lastly, Mrs. for the students and staff when they Lisa Gudmundson will be working return in late August. with the students in our self-contained fourth and fifth grade classroom. Lisa Schedules have been completed, files is also a resident of Westchester. have been organized, and meetings have been set so that all systems are a We are looking forward to a strong “Go” the first week back. Returning a partnership with our newest staff second year as principal ofWestchester members.

Intermediate School, I can say that the summer has been quiet at times, yet Curriculum Office busy with everything we have new going on.

Westchester School District 92½ held the New Teacher Orientation Sessions We had our first school improvement during August 13th through August leadership team meeting on August 15th. The district hired 5 new teachers 11th, our new teacher meetings on in the areas of Special Education and August 13ththrough the 15th and General Education. The new teachers our District Institute Days on August began their orientation sessions with 21stand August 22nd.There were a lot a welcome from the Superintendent, of enthusiasm and discussion about Dr. Mike Dziallo. They met with their how to deliver the best instruction respective Principals and had the possible to our students. opportunity to meet and work closely with the Mentor. The teachers had In early September we had the opportunity to meet School Board our Beginner Band Recruitment members and participate in a tour of happening at school. We began our Westchester. benchmark assessment tests, also called Measures of Academic Progress August 21st and 22nd brought the (MAP).We will have our school Picture staff of District 92½ together to kick off Day on Monday, September 22nd, and the new school year.The District’s new we have our first Early Release Day mission statement specifically states planned for Wednesday, September that the district will apply inquiry24th. based strategies within the curriculum and foster a culturally responsive As I reflect on being a part of the environment; thus, District 92½ has Westchester family, I look forward to embarked on a year-long commitment strengthening staff, student, and family to professional development for connections in order to help promote its teaching staff on inquiry-based the learning growth of each student learning. The staff spent two days in our school. involved in differentiated professional development opportunities and Special Needs training with the goal of providing the very best education to the students of We are looking forward to our Westchester.

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SEPTEMBER 2014

SEPTEMBER 2014

PRESIDENT Continued from page 6

been completed for the summer season. Over 2500 tons of asphalt has been removed and replaced with fresh asphalt. Many of the replacements were entire stretches of the parking curb lane. The replacement, in addition to looking better aesthetically, should preserve the roadway for hopefully years to come before complete reconstruction can be accomplished.

Crews have also been crack filling seams along the curbs and cracks along the road to prevent water infiltration. Gardner Road from I-290 to Cermak Rd; Westchester Blvd.

Roosevelt to Canterbury; Downing Oxford to Dorchester; Waterford; Concord;Camelot;Bedford Sunnyside to Mayfair; Carlisle Sunnyside to Mayfair; Pell Westchester Blvd. to Hull and Balmoral from Kitchener to I-290 has been completed to date with several more in the hopper for this year. Chicago weather, with the freeze and thaw cycles, actually causes the roadway to heave allowing water to freeze beneath the pavement and causing pot holes to form. Preventive maintenance and a proactive approach to maintaining our public infrastructure has been a priority of mine and the entire board since taking office.

Bid Opening on Friday, September 12 at 10:00am Notice to Proceed expected by Friday September 26 If everything goes as planned, we should be removing dirt in October. V3 is still in the planning and engineering stage of adding an additional pipe along Carlisle. I do not have a timeline to share at this time.

COMED AGGREGATION NEWS

In the July newsletter, we reported that the Village would be suspending the municipal aggregation program when the Village’s two year contract with First Energy Systems (FES) expired in August 2014. The Village sought bids to renew the program, but declined all offers as the ComEd rate has increased and the savings margin has narrowed. No bidders offered a rate below 8 cents per kWh. Residents enrolled in the Village’s program were to receive a letter from ComEd in July stating their supply service will be switched back to ComEd. We were notified several weeks ago that First Energy (FES) failed to notify ComEd about the drop in service. As such, ComEd did not circulate the “Confirmation of Drop” notices to Westchester residents. Residents will soon start to receive a letter from ComEd similar to the one that was included in the July newsletter. This “Confirmation of Drop” notice will state that the participating STREET REHABILITATION PHASE 2 ratepayer has two billing periods in Phase 2 of our street rehabilitation which they may choose to switch to project is underway.

Oxford another supplier or otherwise will from Mannheim to Mayfair has be required to remain on ComEd had both side curb and aprons electric supply service for a total of replaced, Portsmouth from Drury to twelve months from the effective Dickens; Portsmouth from Kent to date stated on the letter. Residents Canterbury; Norfolk from Dickens to are advised that they may switch to Drury, and Suffolk from Roosevelt to another supplier only within that Gladstone are in the process of being initial 60-day window. No action is reconstructed. There will also be needed on your part to be moved to some warranty repairs to Newcastle the ComEd supply rate. Residents and the Strand where some cracks wishing to switch to another supplier have formed that need to be repaired within that first 60-day window may by the contractor. view options at a site established by the Illinois Commerce Commission: MAYFAIR RESERVOIR UPDATE http://www.pluginillinois.org.

Our engineering firm,V3 Companies, Conversions back to ComEd will has been working diligently in putting occur on the residents’ meter reads the bid documents together for in September. Most of the residents’ the beginning phase of the Mayfair meters are read during the middle Reservoir Expansion project. This of the month. Good news – FES has phase consists of removing the dirt confirmed that they will charge the to expand the reservoir significantly. FES contract rate of 4.86 cents per There is a cost to haul and dump the kWh for the extra month! dirt. This is called a “TIP FEE.” The following time lines have been SPAGHETTI DINNER TheWestchester Community Church sent to MWRD Bid Notice posted by Westchester is hosting a fundraiser Spaghetti Dinner on Saturday, September on Monday, August 18 Pre-Bid Meeting on Thursday,August 20, 2014 at 1840 Westchester Blvd Westchester, Illinois. The fundraiser 28 at 10:00am

is for our long time resident Amy Lanning Becerra who, after waiting for 5 months, received a new heart.

The surgery lasted over 12 hours and Amy is recovering nicely. To help with Amy’s expenses, medications and other procedures not covered by insurance, this fundraising campaign is being held in her honor. Monetary donations as well as raffle gifts are welcome to make the event a success. The Spaghetti dinner will run from 4pm to 7pm.

For more information please call the Westchester Community Church Office at 708-865-1282.

See Amy’s story at http://wgntv. com/2014/01/31/winter-weathercauses-major-problem-for-transplantpatient/.

BOY SCOUT TROOP 73 NEWS Boy Scout Troop 73, sponsored by the Westchester Community Church, has had a very busy end of summer. At the end of July, they were part of the delegation that attended a sayonara picnic for Scouts visiting Chicago from Japan. Troop 73 boys enjoyed talking to the Japanese Scouts and comparing the similarities and differences of scouting and camping in the United States and Japan. They enjoyed getting a taste of Japanese culture and even learned a Japanese celebration dance called “lyasaka”, which means prosperity and best of luck in Japanese.

The first week of August several Troop members traveled to Rantoul, Illinois for Space Jam. There boys earned high tech merit badges including space exploration, aviation, radio and electronics just to name a few.

Besides having fun earning badges and making new friends from the other side of the world, Troop 73 participated in several community events.They marched in the National Night Out parade held in Westchester on August 5th. They also helped set up and participated in the flag ceremony for the West Cook Relay for Life in Burr Ridge. The West Cook Relay for Life is a joint effort of three communities -Brookfield, Countryside and Westchester.

With summer winding down,Troop 73 is now looking forward to fall camping and kayaking. They will also be having their 2nd annual Rakea-thon in October and November.

Look for more information about the Rake-a-thon in the upcoming Village paper.

BOY SCOUT TROOP 1 NEWS Long-time Scouts and Westchester residents Charlie Swarts and Eddie Colaianni have learned over the years to live their lives according to the Boy Scout Motto and Slogan.

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“Be Prepared,” and “Do a Good Turn Daily” just come naturally to them.

As severe weather approached the Westchester area on Monday evening, August 4th, the Scouts, both Nazareth Academy honor students, were on their school’s football field.

It was the first day of Marching Band Camp. They were preparing for the upcoming football season, but when the storm hit the area, Band Camp came to an early end. The two, both Boy Scouts in Troop 1, which meets at the Westchester Middle School, jumped into Charlie’s car. As the skies opened up, eventually dumping almost 2 inches of rain on the area, they headed for home.

Heading east on Cermak Road, traffic slowed to a crawl as they approached Mayfair Avenue. The high winds that came with the rain had torn a large limb off of a tree, completely blocking the right-hand lane. Car after car moved to the left, going around the downed limb, but Charlie didn’t follow the others. He pulled up to the downed limb, and the two boys jumped out of the car and dragged the heavy limb off of the street. They were soaked to the bone by the time they got back into Charlie’s car, but as they drove away, they felt good knowing that traffic could resume a normal, safe flow.

When Mike Brillakis, Troop 1’s committee chair, heard about their good deed, he said “that’s exactly what I would have expected these scouts to have done. Any of the other scouts in Troop 1 would have done the same thing too. It’s the type of young men we have in our Troop.

I’m proud of all of them.”

As they dried off back at Eddie’s home, they talked about how heavy the limb was, and how difficult it had been to move if off of the street.

They were both completely soaked, but they got more than wet that night. They got the good feeling that they were able to once again live out the Scout Oath and Law and to “help other people at all times,” even if one of those times was in the middle of a terrible storm!

SPEAKING OF STORMS On August 5-6, 2014, the village was again targeted by a rain event that dumped nearly 5 inches of rain in a few hours time. 2.5 inches of rain came down in buckets at around 6-7 pm. The rain stopped for a short while but re-emerged around 10 pm and did not let up until about 2am. PW crews were on the street throughout the event watching and managing both the Addison Creek on the North side of town as well

See PRESIDENT, page 18

12

SEPTEMBER 2014

Westchester to Hold Flu Shot Clinic Help keep your family and the community healthy!

The Village of Westchester will be hosting a Flu Shot Clinic in the Community Room from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Monday, September 22 and Tuesday, September 23.

Immunizations will be administered by pharmacists from the Osco Pharmacy.

We will be offering the f lu shot, as well as an Adacel shot that provides immunization for tetanus and whooping cough.

The clinic is open to all

Westchester residents over the age of 14. Flu shots will be available for $25 and the Adacel shot will be available for $54.99.

Cash or checks are accepted.

Flu shots are covered under Medicare Part B, as well as many insurance plans.

Please call Village Hall at 708-345-0020 to schedule an appointment.

Walk-ins are welcome, but an appointment will guarantee your spot!

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St. Joseph 14

SEPTEMBER 2014

St. Joseph SEPTEMBER 2014

15

Park District 16

SEPTEMBER 2014

Calendar SEPTEMBER 2014

CALENDAR Continued from page 7

Center

Saturday, September 20

Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser - 4-7 pm - Adults $10 - Children 5-10 yrs Westchester, IL 60154 $5 - Children under 5 free. Raffles! www.westchesterbiblechurch.org All proceeds will go to help pay for medical expenses for Amy Lanning 9:00 AM Divine Service setting, Becerra’s recent heart transplant.

Faith Lutheran Church Tickets available in advance and at 11:00 AM Worship Service the door. Please call Westchester We begin at 11:05 and should be Community Church office for further done around 11:45 (or so). Faith details 708/865-1282 Lutheran Church Sunday, September 21 Divine Providence, 8:30 and Morning Worship Service/Evening 10:30AM Masses (10:30 MassWorship Service Children’s Liturgy of the Word) 10:45 a.m. / 6:00 p.m.

Monday, September 15 Westchester Bible Church 7-8:30PM, Religious Education 10600 W. Cermak Rd. (Grades 7&8), Divine Providence Westchester, IL 60154 School www.westchesterbiblechurch.org Wednesday, September 17 Table Grace (Grace Lutheran Church), 11:30AM to 1PM Tai Chi Wellness, 4:30-5:30PM, Divine Providence Church Narthex AMBASSADORS (Grades 7th–12th) 6:45 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Rd. Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org Adult Bible Study-“Forgiveness”/ Pray Meeting 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Rd. Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org All School mass at 8:00 am at Divine Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Newcastle Avenue.

Come join us. For more information, contact the school office at 8650122.

Market Day pick-up from 5:30 – 6:30 pm in Langan Hall at Divine Infant Jesus, 1640 Newcastle Avenue.

Contact Toni Podock at 708-865-8071 for more information.

7:00 PM Prayer and Fellowship At 7:15 we begin the service.

Have coffee or a treat. Meet Jesus in the people that love you and care for you.

Meet Jesus in the service, and pray with us to Jesus for guidance and help.

Thursday, September 18 Board of Education Meeting at WMS (7:00 PM) Women of Providence (Quilters), 9AM, Divine Providence Ministry Center

Friday, September 19 12-Step Program (Courage to Love), 7:30PM, Divine Providence, Ministry

contact the school office at 8650122.

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Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Rd. Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch. org

7:00 PM Prayer and Fellowship Faith Lutheran Church At 7:15 we begin the service.

Sunday School – Small Groups Have coffee or a treat. Meet Jesus in the people that love you and care Bible Study-“Truth Revealed” 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. for you.

Westchester Bible Church Meet Jesus in the service, and pray 10600 W. Cermak Rd. with us to Jesus for guidance and Westchester, IL 60154 help www.westchesterbiblechurch.

Table Grace (Grace Lutheran org Church), 11:30AM to 1PM Tai Chi Wellness, 4:30-5:30PM, 9:00 AM Divine Service setting Divine Providence Church Narthex Faith Lutheran Church Friday, September 26 11:00 AM Worship Service Faith Divine Infant Jesus School, 1640 Lutheran Church Newcastle Avenue, will be closed for We begin at 11:05 and should be a Staff Development Day. done around 11:45 (or so).

For more information, contact the Divine Providence, 8:30 and school office at 865-0122.

10:30AM Masses (10:30 MassSunday School – Small Groups Children’s Liturgy of the Word) 12-Step Program (Courage to Love), Bible Study-“Truth Revealed” Monday, September 29 7:30PM, Divine Providence, Ministry 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Bilingual Parent Advisory Center Westchester Bible Church Committee Meeting at WPS (5:30 10600 W. Cermak Rd. PM) Saturday, September 27 Westchester, IL 60154 TAG meeting (Teen Advisory The Annual Prairie Fest will once Group) 4:00 PM at Library. Contact www.westchesterbiblechurch.org Sunday Morning - 9:00 AM Divine again be held on the Teen or Youth Dept at (708) 562grounds of the Prairie House 3573.

Service setting Sunday Morning - 11:00 AM Worship and adjacent parkway. Enjoy Religious Education (Grades 7-8), music, refreshments, displays, Divine Infant School, 7-8:30PM Service We begin at 11:05 and should be demonstrations, take the opportunity Tuesday, September 30 to buy Made in the USA from crafters done around 11:45 (or so).

High School Night at WMS (6:30 Divine Providence, 8:30 and and artists selling handmade goods PM-8:00 PM) 10:30AM Masses (10:30 Mass- and browse vintage Gr. 2 Reconciliation Meeting at antique furniture. 10 to 4 pm, 11225 7:00 pm at Divine Infant Jesus Children’s Liturgy of the Word) Constitution Dr. on the northern School, 1640 Monday, September 22 The Divine Infant Jesus School edge of Wolf Road Prairie west of Newcastle Avenue. Contact Sr. student body will be Praying the Wolf Road. For more information Susan Majcen 708-865-8086 for about either participating or more Rosary - 2:10 pm at Divine Infant Jesus Church, 1600 finding out about the day’s activities, information.

Newcastle Avenue. Come join us. call 708-354-5512 or email info@ Wednesday, October 1 savetheprairiesociety.

For more All School mass at 8:00 am at Scrapbooking 9:30 am - 11:30 information, contact the school pm - 2 meals and beverages all day. Divine Infant Jesus Church, 1600 office at 865-0122.

Stretch out at a table and layout all Newcastle Avenue.

Tuesday, September 23 Come join us.

For more your Scrapbooking supplies, work Village Board Meeting at 7:00PM uninterrupted or visit with other information, contact the school Wednesday, September 24 scrapbookers for tips and tricks - the office at 865-0122.

AMBASSADORS (Grades 7th–12th) cost is $30 per person for the whole 7:00 PM Prayer and Fellowship 6:45 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. day or $15 for 1/2 day. Westchester Faith Lutheran Church Westchester Bible Church At 7:15 we begin the service.

Community Church, 865-1282 10600 W. Cermak Rd. Have coffee or a treat.

“How to Save on Utility Bills” 10:30 Westchester, IL 60154 Meet Jesus in the people that love AM at Library. Representatives from www.westchesterbiblechurch.org CUB, the Citizens Utility Board, will you and care for you.

Meet Jesus in the service, and explain details on utility bills to help Adult Bible Study-“Forgiveness”/ you evaluate the best service options. pray with us to Jesus for guidance Pray Meeting and help.

Advance registration requested.

7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Family Film Night featuring Contact Adult Dept or call (708) Westchester Bible Church “Despicable Me” 6:30 PM at Library.

562-3573.

10600 W. Cermak Rd. Religious Education Classes, (K-6 Contact Youth at Westchester, IL 60154 (708) 562-3573 grades), Divine Providence School, www.westchesterbiblechurch.org 9:30-11:30AM Friday, October 3 Shopping certificates sold after all Fish Fry/Bratfest - 4:30 - 7:30 PM Early Release Day (see calendar for weekend Masses-Divine Providence Music and great food. time schedule)WPS Sunday, September 28 We will be serving our fish fry All School mass at 8:00 am at Divine Morning Worship Service/Evening menu and delicious brats.

Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Newcastle Worship Service Westchester Community Church Avenue.

10:45 a.m. / 6:00 p.m.

Come join us. For more information,

18

SEPTEMBER 2014

PRESIDENT Continued from page 11

as the South side Mayfair Reservoir.

As a precaution, we borrowed two 6 inch pumps from the Cook County Department of Homeland Security whose leadership under Director Michael Masters and Toni Preckwinkle has been outstanding in this regard. Immediately following my call, Homeland Security Officer Graziano, who was manning the emergency desk, returned my call and indicated two of the pumps I requested were ready for pick-up.

Employees were sent to their south Cook County Facility and were back within the hour. Fortunately, the rain was subsiding and the retention pond rose up about 11 feet. We did activate one of the borrowed pumps which allowed our PW employees to increase their knowledge base and training for a similar future situation.

I would like to again thank Mike, President Preckwinkle and their dedicated staff for their attention to the Village of Westchester’s needs.

RECYCLING EVENTS Our next Electronics Recycling Event will be held Saturday,September 13th. Members of the Environmental Sustainability Committee will be accepting electronic items from 9am until noon. People have been arriving as early as 8:15am while members are involved in the set-up.

Please do not arrive until the start time of 9am. Remember, all members are volunteers and not compensated for donating their time, energy and enthusiasm. We close the container doors promptly at noon. Please make sure to arrive before closing. Filling two marine containers, and stacking all of the large television sets for the 3 hours the volunteers work makes for a tough day. If you have some time to volunteer to help please contact the committee chairperson Carl Celestino at 708-344-3820.

Additionally, please do not drop off items other than on the date of the event. Signs are posted and the site is under camera surveillance. Please follow the rules associated with the project.

WE DO NOT COLLECT ANY PAINT OR HAZARDOUS WASTE AT THIS SITE. Hazardous materials, and oil based paint can be dropped off at the EPA Hazardous Waste Site in Naperville. The household hazardous waste (HHW) drop-off facility is located in the rear of the property behind Fire Station No. 4, 1979 Brookdale Road. The facility is

open Saturdays and Sundays, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., excluding holidays.

No material may be dropped off at any other time. The HHW does not accept latex paint.

LATEX PAINT DISPOSAL ALTERATIVES IEPA’s Household Hazardous Waste Program is a widely accepted and acclaimed system that works with local governments to divert residential waste materials with hazardous characteristics out of local solid waste landfills. The demand for this service far exceeds state resources available to deal with the wastes. A number of cost-containment features have been implemented over the years to increase efficiency, but demand continues to accelerate.

At every collection, in every part of the state, paint is the most common material delivered by Illinois citizens. Encouragement to use up leftover paint or give usable paint to a neighbor has not decreased the amount of latex paint significantly.

Today’s latex (water-based) paint has a very low level of toxicity. Disposing of it at a household hazardous waste collection day is very expensive.

Therefore,the Illinois EPA encourages people with unwanted latex paint to use other options.

Disposal Alternatives After your painting job is done you may have some leftover paint. The question now is:“What should you do with it?” Here are some alternatives: Keep Painting!

This may sound simple, and it is.

What better place to put that last pint or so of paint but right up there on the wall where it blends in perfectly with all the other paint you just put up there. Sure, it’s a little extra work - and right when you thought you’re done for the day - but you’ll be rid of that extra paint for good. Simply let the can dry and then recycle or dispose of it.

Paint Something Else!

It doesn’t even have to need the paint. Use an old piece of cardboard, some scrap lumber, or the inside of your garage. Just about anywhere would probably work to use up that last bit of paint. Again, let the can dry and recycle or dispose of it.

Use an Absorbent like Kitty Litter!

Kitty litter, sawdust, shredded paper or just about anything else that will absorb moisture and let the paint dry out should work here. Depending on how full the can is, you can just add the absorbent to the can and mix it up. When the liquids are absorbed, dry the mixture out or dispose of it directly. You may be able to empty the can, dry it out, and recycle it.

Give it to Someone!

Look around and you may find

somebody who needs to paint a small area. Some schools or local theatres will take some small amounts of paint for scenery.

Store it for Later!

Everyone has good intentions to use half-filled paint cans for “touch-ups” that never come. Also, many people have saved paint that becomes unusable over time before it’s called into action. If you do save your paint for later, follow some easy tips to make the paint last longer. Just cover the opening with plastic wrap, and make sure the lid fits securely so the paint doesn’t leak. Then turn the paint can upside down! This creates a tight seal, and keeps the paint fresh to use again For more information and an informational video courtesy of SCARCE follow the link below http://www.scarceecoed.org/ recycling/paint/506-disposing-oflatex-paint.html VOTING RIGHTS The Office of the County Clerk has reported Illinois has made important strides recently regarding voting rights. On July 1, not only did online registration go into effect, but Public Act 98-0691 was signed into law by Governor Quinn. For the November election, the new law will expand registration and voting opportunities, most notably by extending early voting and allowing “Election Day registration” at select sites.

Here is what you need to know regarding online registration and P.A. 98-0691: Online Registration The Illinois State Board of Elections website now allows citizens with an IL driver’s license or state ID to register to vote online. Voters can also find the link on the County Clerk website at cookcountyclerk.com.

Anyone may promote online voter registration by placing registration links on their website, Facebook, Twitter or through email.

Public Act 98-0691 The five provisions below are in effect on a pilot basis for the November 4, 2014 Election: Election Day registration:Voters will be able to register and cast ballots on Election Day at limited sites.

Voters who take part in Election Day registration will cast a provisional ballot.

Applicants must have two forms of identification, one of which must include a current address. No photo ID is required.

Grace period registration will be extended to the Sunday and Monday before Election Day at limited sites. Grace period voters who cast their ballot on Monday must cast a provisional ballot.

Early voting will extend an extra day,

to the Sunday before the election The Mon-Fri before the election, early voting sites will remain open an additional two hours, until 7:00 p.m.

A photo ID is not required for early voting during the 2014 general election. Signature verification will continue to be done.

These provisions are permanent: Employers cannot force employees to use vacation time or any paid leave to serve as an election judge.

Voters may submit their applications for mail ballots to their election authorities starting 90 days before the election. (It was previously 40 days.) Note that while mail ballot applications can be sent in earlier, the timeline of when ballots are mailed out to voters remains unchanged.

Unlike so many other states that have recently passed restrictive voting laws, Illinois continues to be among the states that are expanding voting access. For more information on voter registration go to http://www. cookcountyclerk.com/elections/ registertovote/Pages/default.aspx

GOVERNOR QUINN SIGNS NO SMOKING BILL Beginning next summer July 1, 2015 Smoking will be banned indoors and out on all Illinois public college and university campuses. The ban applies to all state supported schools and will protect students’ health and help nonsmokers avoid unwanted smoke “on the campuses they call home.”

Smoking will still be permitted inside privately owned vehicles.

FREE EMPLOYMENT SERVICES For those residents seeking employment, I have found a location not far from Westchester in the Village of Maywood that I would like to share. Every Tuesday and Thursday morning at 8:45am, the Maywood workNet Center is open and ready to help you. The workNet Center is located in the Eisenhower Tower, 1701 S. 1st Ave., Suite 10, Maywood, Illinois. The Eisenhower Tower is right at the intersection of I-290 and 1st Ave. It is also served by Pace Bus route #320. Free Services are available for youths 18-21 years of age and adults. Helpful staff will be available to assist with training assistance and on the job training opportunities.

These free employment services are available through the Federal Workforce Investment Act. Services are funded by the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership and the Illinois workNet Center. For more information call 708-223-2652.

See PRESIDENT, page 19

SEPTEMBER 2014

PRESIDENT Continued from page 18

SEPTEMBER HOLIDAYS September 1st September 7th Grandparents Day September 11th September 14th Banner (1814) September 15th Heritage Month September 17th Citizenship Day September 28th Good Neighbor Day

Labor Day National Patriot Day Star Spangled Hispanic Constitution/ National

MUSEUM GRAND REOPENING Not too far from Westchester, located in the Village of Stone Park, is the ITALIAN AMERICAN VETERANS MUSEUM. The museum is having its Grand Reopening on September 20, 2014. A noon dedication of a new exhibit honoring Italian-American Congressional Medal of Honor recipients will occur. The museum is located at Casa Italia, 3800 Division Street, Stone Park, IL. For more information call 708-338-0690.

SORROW IN OUR MIDST

As I have been writing this newsletter on August 20th, the news is filled with the murder of James Foley as the hands of the terrorist group ISIS. Foley, 40, was kidnapped in Syria in November 2012 while freelancing for Agence France-Presse and Boston-based news service GlobalPost, which has a partnership with NBC News. Militants claimed they killed the freelance war correspondent as revenge against U.S. airstrikes in Iraq.

The news is being continually repeated and each time I hear it makes me sick to my stomach. I cannot imagine being a parent and having to hear let alone see my child being killed. Please keep James and his family in your prayers.

FROM THE BOARD At the August 12, 2014 Village Board Meeting, the following items were approved under the Consent Agenda; Approval of the Record of Bills ending 08-07-2014 in the amount not to exceed $932,856.89 Approval of Minutes of the July 22, 2014 Village Board Meeting and the July 22, 2014 Committee of the

Whole Meeting Approval of Departmental Monthly Reports, including the Community Development Department, the Fire Department, the Police Department and the Public Works Department Ordinance Waiving the Requirements of the Village of Westchester Purchasing Policies and Procedures Manual and Ratifying the Purchase and Installation of Surge Suppression Devices from Meade Electric Company, INC. in the amount of $10,985.60 Resolution Approving Change Order No.1 for the Portsmouth Avenue Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project in the amount of $9,400.

Resolution Approving Change Order No.2 for the Paving Component of the 2014 Street Improvement Program in the amount of $7,920.

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sanitary sewer line, and storm sewer line. In a designated area and for a specified distance in the rear of their property At the August 12, 2014, Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items were discussed under new business: Recommendation for Approval of Anna’s Place Façade Grant Recommendation for Approval of Christo’s Façade Grant Recommendation for Approval of Quote for Wayfinding signs The following items were discussed under old business; Clarification – Driveway and Driveway Approach – Municipal Code 14.03.900 and 14.03.910

The following items were discussed under information only: A Resolution Authorizing the An Amendment to the Budget and Execution of an Indemnification and Appropriation Ordinance for the Hold Harmless Agreement between Fiscal Year Ended April 30, 2014 Regency Centers, L.P., Regency Financing of Three (3) Ford Centers Corporation and the Village Explorer Police Interceptors of Westchester was discussed on the through PNC Capital Equipment active agenda. Regency Partners LLC will pay for any issues related to Bid results for the Acquisition of the repairs to a water service line, an Emergency Generator

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Westchester Community News and Notes BATTERY RECYCLING For the past several months, Divine Providence Church (DP) staff have been collecting household batteries as part of their internal recycling program.

In fact, the batteries you have dropped off at the Village electronic recycling events on the 2nd Saturday of each month have been dropped off at DP. DP staff have been informed by the EPA that they will now charge for battery disposal. They further commented that regular and alkaline batteries can be placed in with the regular garbage. I located the following information on the Eveready web site that I thought I would share.

EVEREADY® Gold® Alkaline: Frequently Asked Questions When should I use EVEREADY® Gold® alkaline batteries?

Eveready® Gold® alkaline batteries are the ideal power source for low to mid drain devices such as: Motor Toys Security Devices (Alarms, Smoke Detectors) Compact Disc Players Pagers Electronic Organizers Shavers Portable Radios Portable TV’s Remote Control Models Electronic Photoflash How long do EVEREADY® Gold® alkaline batteries last in the package?

Eveready Gold has a shelf life of up to seven years in the package.

Of course, they perform better in your clock than in your closet.

Should I store alkaline batteries in the refrigerator?

Storing batteries in refrigerators or freezers is not required or recommended for batteries produced today. In fact, cold temperature storage can harm batteries. To maximize performance and shelf life, store batteries at normal room temperatures with moderate humidity levels.

How long do alkaline batteries last in a device?

There are several factors that impact battery run time. The most critical is the rate at which a device consumes power. A highdrain device like a digital camera will deplete a battery much faster than a low-drain device like a

clock. Other factors affecting overall battery performance are environmental conditions, device usage patterns (continuous or intermittent) and battery size/ chemistry.

How should I dispose of alkaline batteries?

It’s safe to drop them right in the household trash. In 1989, Eveready Battery Company became the first company to remove all added mercury from alkaline batteries.

Are alkaline batteries considered hazardous waste?

No. In the United States and many other countries, alkaline batteries are classified as common household waste. Great strides have been made to make alkaline batteries better for the environment and they’ve been manufactured free of added mercury since the mid 1990s.

Classification details may vary and should be confirmed in each specific geographical location.

Is it a problem to mix batteries of different chemistries, brands or ages?

Mixing battery types in a device is not recommended and can significantly increase the potential for leakage and reduced performance.The biggest problem is an imbalance in available energy between the installed batteries.

So always practice smart battery care and replace used batteries with new, fresh batteries of the same brand—preferably Eveready.

Is it dangerous to carry loose batteries in a purse or pocket?

Batteries can be short-circuited by metal items such as coins, keys, paper clips, etc. A battery that experiences a short circuit can become very hot, increasing the potential for leakage and personal injury. For additional Do’s and Don’ts surrounding proper storage, care and handling of batteries, visit Eveready’s Battery Care page at http://www. e veready.co m/a bout-us /Pa ge s / battery-care.aspx.

What increases the potential for alkaline battery leakage?

Typically, alkaline batteries will not leak under normal storage and usage conditions. However, the potential for leakage is significantly increased if batteries are subjected to charging, mixing of battery chemistries, mixing of fresh and used batteries, physical damage, extended exposure to high temperature or deep discharging. Alkaline battery

leakage is extremely caustic and contact with bare skin should be avoided. In the event that battery leakage comes in contact with your skin, flush the area for 15 minutes with copious amounts of water.

Can alkaline batteries be charged in a NiMH or NiCd battery charger?

Standard alkaline batteries are not designed to be recharged and should never be placed in any battery charger. Attempting to charge alkaline batteries will significantly increase the likelihood for leakage to occur.

Rechargeable alkaline batteries made by other manufacturers may also leak if placed in a NiMH or NiCd charger and should only be recharged in a charger designed for that system.

WESTCHESTER CIVIC THEATRE

Being part of the Westchester community has made us strong.

WCT asks you to be part of our Be One of 120 campaign to increase awareness and audience size.

What is it?

Be One of 120 is a community campaign driven by Westchester Civic Theatre (WCT) to add some zing to our growth by raising awareness of the group and specifically to increase our average audience size from 80 to 120 people per performance.

Reaching the goal enables us to provide additional opportunities throughout the year to those from Westchester and surrounding communities who want to see or be part of theater.

WCT is a community theater group that puts on high quality GIRL SCOUTS performances of plays and musicals for fantastic audiences Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and using people from Westchester Northwest Indiana is looking for and surrounding communities. enthusiastic adults in Westchester We strive to create a welcoming to volunteer to introduce girls to and nurturing environment where new experiences that make every anyone who has ever wanted to be day the best day ever. in a play or assist back stage can do so while having lots of fun Be a role model Show her What can I expect when I see something new Almost, Maine?

Show her what’s possible Good, free parking at our Help her shine performance venue, St. Joseph High School It all starts with you!

Enjoying the fun of seeing a Girl Scouting is open to girls group of normal people show off from Kindergarten through 12th the talents they don’t get to use grade in their everyday lives in front of Troops can be formed at each a live audience grade level or combined with Being shocked that they are, in another. fact, awesome Adult volunteers are needed Experiencing a performance to lead the troop, along with where sets, costumes, lighting volunteer positions to support effects, and sound effects are top the troop operations. We invite notch; designed and implemented college students, relatives and by community members community members to help, not Being shocked that those things just parents! are, in fact, impressive Troop meetings can be held at Feeling proud that your school, the library, village hall, community has a great theater church etc. group of its very own Meetings are generally held Wanting to audition to try your 1-2 times per month or more if hand at being on or off stage... desired.

Printed training materials, online What can I do right now? training, and council sponsored Join our e-mail list for notifications training is provided for adult of auditions and performances volunteers as well as a local - http://www.westchesterplays. support network com/about-us.html For more information on how to Buy your tickets - http://www. become a Girl Scout Volunteer, westchesterplays.com/tickets-offContact: Margaret Harris season.html WestchesterGS@sbcglobal.net or Tell 3 people about WCT and 708 447-6720 share our message

Community Development SEPTEMBER 2014

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Why Should I Get a Building Permit?

Why Should I Get a Building Permit?

This is a question many people may ask themselves when planning alterations to their home or property.

There are several advantages to doing home improvement projects with a building permit.

When you apply for a permit, you can be assured that your construction drawings will be thoroughly reviewed and that each phase of the project will be inspected to ensure the work is completed in compliance with locally adopted building codes.

Additionally, the plans examiner and field inspector can be a resource to provide technical guidance on your project.

Furthermore, there are legal and financial liabilities that you

may face when you don’t get a building permit.

Work without a permit is illegal and can pose serious complications for you when you try to sell your house.

Any fire and homeowners insurance you have may be invalidated if you do work without a permit.

If there is a fire in your home, the insurance company can use the illegal work as an excuse not to pay your claim.

If you are planning on starting a building project and are not sure if a permit is required, please contact Community Development at 708-345-0199 and we can answer any questions you have.

Most of the information above was prepared by Safebuilt.

Scouts attend Order of the Arrow

DP Over 50 Divine Providence Senior Bus Trip to the Biltmore Estates in North Carolina this past May, with group leader Marianne Krasucki

Troop 1 Senior Patrol Leader Charlie Swarts (left), and Patrol Leader Eddie Colaianni, at an Order of the Arrow event in June.

The Order of the Arrow is the Boy Scouts of America National Honor Society.

It recognizes Scouts who best exemplify the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives.

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