december 2013 westchester, il newsletter

Village of

POLICE DEPARTMENT

It is mid-November and I cannot believe I’m writing the December newsletter. Where did 2013 go? As I refl ect back on the year, each day seems to run together in a blink of an eye. This month will be especially diffi cult for me as I hit my 60th birthday. Some people I know had problems with their 30th, 40th, and 50th, but for me, those milestones were just another day. Now that I’m approaching 60, I’m feeling what my parents tried to explain but could not, that I would be in their shoes someday. Some would say, like I heard from those attending the Divine Providence Over 50 Club, “you’re still a kid and have a long way to go”. Others said “you are only as old as you feel” or “age is only a state of mind”. Honestly, I can’t put my fi nger on it, but something feels different about this milestone birthday.

Several notable events occurred in November. On Saturday, November 2nd, I represented Westchester as a participant in the Village of Hillside’s Veterans Day Parade. While at the event, I learned there was an event for veterans at Sheet Metal Workers International Association 73 Union Hall on Roosevelt Road Sunday afternoon, November 3rd, where the traveling World War II Memorial would be displayed. The display called “The Pillars of Honor” is actually an original

scale model of the World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.. As you may remember, during the government shut-down in October, the actual memorial in Washington D.C. was closed. Throughout the year, “Honor Flights” bring World War II Veterans to Washington D.C. to see the memorial dedicated to those soldiers who served our country in the “Pacifi c” or “Atlantic Theater” of World War II. Pillars of Honor Inc. transported the beautiful model designed by Fredrick St. Florian to the Sheet Metal Union Hall where a formal ceremony was held before the unveiling. The model is made of wood and looks just wonderful. Unfortunately, many World War II Veterans are unable to see the actual memorial in Washington D.C. Each year thousands of these honored veterans are passing away. Most were inducted into service right out of high school following the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 and are now in their 80’s or 90’s.

Members of the Broadview-Hillside American Legion Post 626, The Illinois Patriot Guard, The History Singers, guest speaker Lt. Commander Michael Kerley (USN), as well as veterans from all of our armed services were represented at the

From the Desk of The President

FIRE DEPARTMENT

CALENDAR

LIBRARY

FEATURE: NORCOMM

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PUBLIC WORKS

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See PRESIDENT, page 4

Participants dash at the start of the Annual Veterans Day Run held on Sunday, November 10th.

WestchesterDecember 2013 Newsletter

Police DePartment2 DECEMBER 2013

1) At 1:16pm on October 23, 2013, a Theft of Purse was reported at 825 Mannheim Road, BP Amoco. An employee reported that an unknown female entered the employee office area and removed a purse containing money and jewelry.2) At 7:59am on October 24, 2013, a Criminal Damage to Property was reported on the 10400 block of Dickens. Police on patrol observed an unknown object shattered the glass pane of the bus stop. 3) At 1:35pm on October 29, 2013, a Theft of Wallet was reported at 1 Westbrook Corporate Center. An employee stated that an unknown person removed a wallet from a purse while the purse was under a desk. 4) At 9:22pm on November 4, 2013, a Residential Burglary was reported on the 800 block of Westchester Blvd. The resident reported that

unknown person(s) made forced entry into the house. Nothing appeared to be missing.5) At 6:46pm on November 6, 2013, a Theft was reported on the 1900 block of Norfolk. The resident reported that between November 4th and November 6th unknown person(s) removed 2 folding chairs from the backyard. 6) At 7:54am on November 9, 2013, a Criminal Damage to Property was reported on the 1500 block of Hull. The resident reported that between November 2nd and November 10th unknown person(s) threw rocks breaking two garage windows. 7) At 2:36pm on November 13, 2013, a Residential Burglary was reported on the 10500 block of Essex. The resident reported that between 6:45am and 2:00pm unknown person(s) made forced entry into the home removing money and jewelry.

Police blotter

Name: Alan Trucksa Rank: Senior Records Clerk Years as Records Clerk: 14

Profile

What made you choose police officer as a profession?

Trucksa family name has a history of being in the police field. Two of my late father’s cousins and one of my father’s uncles were police officers. I also wanted to work in the police field and keep the family tradition going.

Describe a good day at work.Knowing that are officers were

able to assist the public and keep themselves and the streets safe.

What is the best part of your job? Assisting citizens and knowing I

was able to help someone out and that they showed appreciation in whatever I did for them.

What advice would you give someone looking to get into this field?

That it is a hard field to get into once you get the proper training and be sure it is something you want to be the rest of your life.

What would occur on your perfect day off ?

Going to see a movie and out to lunch or dinner afterwards and spending time watching sports on television.

Police Chief John M. Carpino

The holiday season is upon us once again. The month of December is well known as being the month in which most people do their shopping for the Holidays. It’s the month in which all the stores are crowded with people trying to buy presents for family and friends. Shoppers, however, aren’t the only people out during the Holidays. With such large amounts of people out and about, it is also the time of year in which thieves are out doing their “shopping”.

Traditionally, the Christmas Season is the time of year in which the highest numbers of thefts occur. These thefts include the items that are stolen out of vehicles and the items that are stolen from people themselves. There are, however, some guidelines that you can follow to reduce the risk of becoming a victim:

Always make sure that you lock your car doors. This is a good habit to get into. This is especially important when you park your car and leave it unattended. You can do this while you are driving as well.

When leaving items of value inside the car while you are away, remember to put them into the trunk or glove box. Items that are easily seen are items that are easily stolen.

If you are parking at night, park your

car in a well-lit and populated area of the lot.

If possible, take a “Shopping Buddy” with you.

When making purchases, avoid unnecessarily taking large amounts of cash out of your wallet/purse. When you do this, you are allowing a potential thief to see that you have a significant amount of money on you. Debit cards that are given out by your bank are a very good alternative. Never give a cashier the PIN number.

Make sure that your purse is closed whenever you aren’t digging through it.

Be aware of the other people in the parking lots as you are walking to and from your cart.

Keep your purse under your arm and your wallet in an inside pocket.

If you feel someone has just bumped into you, it might not be as innocent as you think. Thieves divert your attention and intentionally bump you in order to distract you and steal your wallet or purse. The thieves may travel as a couple and even dress up for the occasion.

Be alert when using revolving doors. Some thieves will stop the revolving door and leave just enough space to reach in and take your purse while you are trapped.

Also, don’t be fooled by someone

who appears to be stuck in a revolving door. While you take on the role of Good Samaritan the bad guy just took your purse.

Carry a fanny pack type purse and never leave your purse unattended in a shopping cart, unless you don’t mind being a victim.

At the airport keep an eye on your purse as it goes thru the scanner. Often someone is waiting at the other end to retrieve it as a companion is causing a delay.

Avoid carrying large sums of cash. Also don’t carry too many credit cards.

Don’t leave your credit cards in your car; an alarming amount of credit card thefts are from glove compartments.

If someone stops you for directions, either on foot or from a motor vehicle, explain to them you are unfamiliar with the area. A con may just be keeping you busy to divert your attention while his female companion is stealing your wallet or vice versa.

The Holiday Season is meant to be a joyous one. If you take the few extra moments to practice some of these techniques, you are helping to reduce the chances of becoming a victim. Let’s all work together to make the Holiday Season a safe one.

Have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season!

Holiday Season Safety Tips

Fire DePartmentDECEMBER 2013 3

4 DECEMBER 2013

event. One part of the formal ceremony

really struck home for me. I watched in awe as one-by-one each member of the American Legion positioned a weapon (rifle) upside-down in a holder, dog tags (with no name) hanging down from on top of the butt of the rifle, then a steel helmet placed over the butt of the rifle, worn boots (atop a sandbag so they would not touch the ground) at the base, a 48 star flag indicative of the 48 states and 8 United States territories during the war, and an empty chair with a POW flag draped across waiting for the return of those Missing in Action. It was quite an event that I hope to bring it to Westchester in 2014. For more information about the ceremony go to www.pillarsofhonor.org

VETERANS DAY RACE The Westchester Park District held

its annual 2013 Veterans Day Race on Sunday, November 10, 2013 at Mayfair Park. Westchester’s American Legion Post posted the colors by raising the American Flag at the ceremony. Over 300 runners participated in the 5K race. The fastest runner completed the course in less than 15 minutes. I would like to thank the Westchester Park District staff, all the volunteers and especially Park District Executive Director Gary Kasanders and Dr. Tom Sullivan for ensuring the run continues as an annual event for our community. Special thanks to Kandice Jacobs of Inland Bank for arranging for the full complement of the Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Veterans Group who led the race. The major function of Rolling Thunder is to publicize the POW-MIA issue: to educate the public that many American Prisoners of War were left behind after all previous wars and to help correct the past and to protect the future Veterans from being left behind should they become Prisoners of War or Missing in Action.

CIACOCIACO stands for the Chicagoland

Italian American Charitable Organization. Every year on the Sunday before Thanksgiving, CIACO members, family and friends gather to assemble “Baskets of Love” to be given to those in need. The “Baskets of Love” are actually crates weighing over 50 pounds each which include a full turkey. Each basket holds enough food for Thanksgiving and beyond. For the third year, Westchester Village officials delivered 15 baskets to families in need. Thank you to CIACO for their contributions and all those

who support the organization and their good deeds.

DECEMBER HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONSHanukkah: Hanukkah, also known

as the Festival of Lights and Feast of Dedication is an 8 day Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple (the second temple) in Jerusalem. This year, the holiday began on November 27th and ends on December 5th. The festival is observed by the kindling of the lights of a unique candelabra, a nine-branch Menorah. One light is lighted on each night of the holiday progressing to eight on the final night. The Menorah consists of eight branches with an additional raised branch in the middle. The extra light is called a Shamash and is given the distinct location. The purpose of the Shamash is to have light available for practical use. Using the Hanukkah lights themselves for purposes other than publicizing and meditating on Hanukkah is forbidden.

Christmas: Christmas Eve, the day before Christmas, is Tuesday, December 24th. It is also known as “Christmas Evening”, “Christmas Vigil”, and “the night before Christmas” and is observed by Christians and also non-Christians. Roman Catholics and Anglicans traditionally celebrate Midnight Mass, which begins either at or sometimes before midnight on Christmas Eve. This ceremony, which is held in churches throughout the world, celebrates the birth of Christ, which is believed to have occurred at night.

During World War I in 1914 and 1915 an unofficial truce took place between the British and German troops. The truce began Christmas Eve, December

24, 1914, when German troops began decorating the area around their trenches in the region of Ypres, Belgium, for Christmas. The Germans placed candles in trees and began singing Christmas Carols, most notably Silent Night. The British troops, also in trenches across from them, began singing English carols. The two sides shouted Christmas greetings to each other. Shortly thereafter gifts were exchanged between the foes in an area called “No Man’s Land”. The truce also allowed the troops on both sides to gather their dead soldiers and conduct funerals. At one funeral in “No Man’s Land”, soldiers from both sides gathered and read a passage from Psalm 23. The truce occurred despite the opposition from the higher levels of the military commands of both armies.

Christmas Day is Wednesday, December 25th. This annual celebration commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ observed by millions of people around the world. Popular modern customs include gift giving, music and caroling. Christmas cards are exchanged, church celebrations are attended, a special meal is often shared with loved ones, and the display of various types and designs of Christmas decorations are displayed.

Children and adults alike are anxious to be visited by Santa Claus, who with Mrs. Claus and his merry bunch of elves, have been working tirelessly at their toy factory at the North Pole since the beginning of the year. The only requirement that Santa asks is that boys and girls have to have been good. He sees you when you are sleeping, he knows when you are awake, he knows if you have been bad or good,

so BE GOOD for goodness sake!!

KWANZAAKwanzaa, or “First Fruits of the

Harvest,” is an African American and Pan-African holiday which celebrates and strengthens community, family and culture over a period of 7 days. Kwanzaa begins December 26th and ends January 1st. Each day a principle of Kwanzaa is celebrated. December 26th is Unity; December 27th is Self-Determination; December 28th is Collective Work & Responsibility; December 30th is Purpose; December 31st is Creativity, and January 1st is Faith.

No matter what holiday you celebrate, this is the season for all of us to look inside ourselves and to help those who are less fortunate than us. Whether you are religious or not, the spirit of helping others has always been a hallmark of what Westchester is all about.

TOYS FOR TOTS & FOOD DRIVEThe Westchester Citizens Advisory

Board (CAB) participates in the TOYS FOR TOTS drop off each year. Boxes are located at the Westchester Village Hall and the Westchester Park District buildings. They also hold an annual food drive for the Westchester Food Pantry and items can be dropped off at the same locations.

Our Food pantry requests have increased significantly and I would like to thank our Boy Scouts for again organizing the annual food drive this year.

HOLIDAY TREE

PRESIDENTContinued from page 1


Trustee Calcagno, President Pulia, Kandice Jacobs and two members of Rolling Thunder showing their support of the Veterans Day Run on Sunday, November 10th.

DECEMBER 2013 5


This year we have installed yet another donated evergreen tree in front of the Fire House on Roosevelt Road. We have decided that the Village will partner with the Westchester Park District and have one tree lighting ceremony that will be held at the Westchester Park District Community Center (Bond and Westchester Blvd). The tree lighting and holiday party will be held on Wednesday, December 4th and Thursday, December 5th from 6:30-8:30 PM. I have sent a letter and email to the North Pole requesting the appearance of Santa, aka Jolly Old St. Nick, and his wife Mrs. Claus and some of their worker elves asking them to attend.

We will be decorating three evergreen trees this year. The first is located in front of the Fire House and the second and third are along the path in Community Park. Westchester businesses have also been asked to sponsor/decorate trees along the path. We hope you will be able to attend the event at the Westchester Park District.

ILLINOIS BECOMES A STATEOn December 3, 1818, Illinois

became the 21st state of the Union. There have been 41 Governors who have taken office since that time. Nicknamed the Prairie State, the State of Illinois covers 56,400 square miles. The State Seal is centered on a white field with gold trim. In the seal, an eagle clutches a shield with stars and stripes that represent the original 13 colonies. The olive branch symbolizes peace. The plains of Illinois are represented by the prairie and rising sun. The dates on the rock represent when Illinois was admitted into the Union (1818) and when the seal was adopted (1868). The flag of the State of Illinois was adopted in 1915.

REMEMBER PEARL HARBORAs mentioned above, the month of

December has special significance for our country. December 7, 1941 will always be remembers as “a date which will live in infamy”. The United States Naval Base at Pearl Harbor was attacked by a surprise military strike conducted by the Imperial Japanese Navy. 353 Japanese fighters, bombers, and torpedo planes struck in two waves launched from 6 aircraft carriers. All 8 U.S. Navy battleships were damaged from the attack and 4 were sunk. Two of those were raised, with the remaining 4 repaired. Six of the battleships returned to service later in the war. The Japanese also sank or damaged 3 cruisers, 3 destroyers, an anti-aircraft training ship and one

minelayer. 188 U.S. aircrafts were destroyed, 2,402 Americans were killed and 1,282 were wounded. As a result of the attack, The United States entered into World War II. On December 8, 1941 the United States declared War on Japan. Subsequent operations by the United States prompted Germany and Italy to declare war on the United States on December 11, 1941, and war was declared against them by the U.S the same day.

The attack took place before any formal declaration of war was made by Japan. This was not Admiral Yamamoto’s intention. He originally stipulated that the attack should not commence until 30 minutes after Japan had informed the United States that peace negotiations were at an end. Tokyo transmitted the 5,000 word notice referred to as the “14-Part Message” in two blocks to the Japanese Embassy in Washington, but transcribing the message took too long for the Japanese Ambassador to deliver it in time. (Source: Wikipedia)

As we are still involved in conflicts overseas, I would like to remind all of our residents that without the brave and unselfish acts of our military we would not be enjoying what we have. Please keep our service personnel in your thoughts and prayers.

BILL OF RIGHTS DAYOn December 15th, we celebrate “The

Bill Of Rights Day”. The Bill of Rights references the first 10 amendments to the United States Constitution. It outlines freedoms not stated in the main body of the Constitution. These freedoms include: freedom of speech; a free press; free assembly; the right to keep and bear arms; freedom from unreasonable search and seizure; security in personal effects; freedom from warrants issued without probable cause; indictments by grand jury for any capital or infamous crime; guarantee of a speedy public trial with an impartial jury; and prohibition of double jeopardy.

The amendments were introduced by James Madison to the 1st United States Congress. They were adopted by the House of Representatives on August 21, 1789, proposed by joint resolution of Congress on September 25, 1789 and came into effect as Constitutional amendments on December 15, 1791.

While doing some research, I came upon a website to test my knowledge of the Bill of Rights. It is called the Bill of Rights Institute’s Duel. The duel is actually a 15 question quiz asking multiple choice questions testing your knowledge. Each quiz has different questions that come from 4 categories; the Constitution, primary source documents, landmark Supreme Court cases, and historic people. I took the quiz twice getting 10 out of 15 on the

first try and 13 out of 15 the second time.

The quiz can be found at www.BillofRightsinstitute.org Click on “Resources” then “Play Games” under the student heading; look for Constitutional quiz. Good Luck!

WRIGHT BROTHERS DAY Each year Wright Brothers Day is

celebrated on December 17th. On December 17, 1903, near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, the Wright Brothers’ first successful flight was held. Orville and his brother Wilber are given credit for building the first successful airplane with aircraft controls that enabled them to steer the plane. The brothers’ first aircraft named “Flyer”, made its maiden flight for 12 seconds and 120 feet. There is a 60 foot granite memorial on top of Kill Devil Hill marking the spot where the Wright Brothers camp was located.

WINTER SOLSTICEDecember 21, 2013, begins the first

day of Winter. BRRRRRRRRRR! Winter is the coldest season of the year and lasts through March 19th. Around

December 21st or 22nd, the sun’s rays fall directly over the farthest point south of the equator marking the first day of winter. Winter days have fewer hours of daylight because the path the earth takes as it revolves around the sun. The earth rotates around the sun during the 365 days of the year. The Earth’s axis always tips about 23 1/2 degrees from a line perpendicular to its path. Make sure you prepare yourself for the winter months.

WINTER WEATHER PREPAREDNESSHave your furnace and fireplaces

checked yearly for proper operation. Have a professional inspect your chimney and flue to make sure there are no blockages. Carbon monoxide levels can become dangerous if smoke cannot escape from blocked chimneys and flues. Soot in flues and chimneys is highly combustible and can easily ignite, sending a ball of fire from the furnace or fireplace into your home.

To reduce energy bills, many people use space or room heaters. Misuse of


6 DECEMBER 2013

DECEMBER 2013 7

Monday, December 2Registration begins for Youth

Department’s Winter Reading Club at Library. Contact Youth Dept or call 708-562-3573.

Parish Mission with Friar Johnpaul Cafiero, OFM: “Make Me an Instrument of Your Peace”: Reflection so the Peace Prayer, 1:00 and 7:00 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

Tuesday, December 3Parish Mission with Friar Johnpaul

Cafiero, OFM, “Make Me An Instrument of Your Peace:” Reflections on the Peace Prayer, 7:00 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

Divine Infant Jesus School Advisory Board Meeting at 7:00 PM at the Rectory, 1601 Newcastle Avenue. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122.

Wednesday, December 4Winter Band Concert at WMS at 7:00

PMTable Grace, 11:30 AM, Divine

Providence and Grace Lutheran Church, 1101 Manchester

Tai Chi Class, 4:30 PM, Divine Providence Church Narthex, 2600 Mayfair

BAR-W (Grades 1st-6th )/Ambassadors (Grades 7th -12th) from 6:45 PM – 8:00 PM at Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Road Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org

Bible Study/Prayer Meeting from 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Road 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 865-0122.

Holiday Party and Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Westchester Park District Community Center from 6:30-8:30 pm. This is a combined event between the Westchester Park District and Village of Westchester.

Thursday, December 5 Affordable Care Act: Information

Session, 10:00 – 11:00 AM at Library. Staff from Health Coverage 4U will explain health insurance marketplace. Contact Adult Dept or call 708-562-3573.

Senior Concert at WMS at 10:00 AMWinter Choral Concert at WIS at

7:00 PMSenior Saints Thanksgiving/

Christmas Luncheon from 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM at Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Road Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org

Teetering Tots Playgroup from 9:30-10:30 AM Teetering Tots would like

to welcome tots between the ages of 0-4 to a playgroup in the Divine Providence gym twice a month. The group has been established to provide stay-at-home and part-time working parents with a local activity to promote friendships and provide emotional support to parents with children in the early years of their live. We welcome the very young of Westchester, with a parent, into Divine Providence School for some entertainment and socialization. Parents are encouraged to bring any items from bottles to bears that will make the experience more enjoyable for their children.

Holiday Party and Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Westchester Park District Community Center from 6:30-8:30 pm. This is a combined event between the Westchester Park District and Village of Westchester.

Friday, December 6Fish Fry Fundraiser from 4:30 PM-7:30

PM. Westchester Community Church, 1840 Westchester Blvd., Westchester. Serving shrimp, fried cod or fried chicken, and rotisserie chicken. Each dinner comes with 2 sides, bread, and a dessert. Adult dinners are $10. Children’s menu includes hot dog meal for $4 and fried chicken or fish for $6. Contact the church office for more details 708-865-1282 between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM

First Friday Day of Adoration, 8:00 AM Opening Prayers until 7:00 PM Benediction, Divine Providence Ministry Center Chapel, 2540 Mayfair

Addiction Program (RU) at 7:00 PM at Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Road Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org

Saturday, December 7Advent Individual Reconciliation,

4:00-4:30 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

Sunday, December 8Sunday School/Worship Service/

Evening Service 9:30 AM /10:45 AM /6:00PM at Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Road Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org

Monday, December 9EDC Meeting at 7:30 AM in the

Community Room of Village Hall.All-School Mass, Immaculate

Conception (not a holyday), 9:00 AM, Divine Providence Church 2600 Mayfair

Tuesday, December 10WMS Band & Chorus Performance at

Yorktown Mall begins at 12:00 noonVillage Board Meeting at 7:00 PM

in the Village Hall Court Room with the Committee of the Whole Meeting

immediately followingDivine Providence Over 50 Club

Christmas Luncheon on December 10th. Members: $22.00 and Guests: $25.00. Our luncheon will be at Park Place in Countryside. Doors will open at 11:30 AM and Lunch at Noon. Once again we will have entertainment. Deadline is December 2nd. If you need a ticket you can call Ruth @ 708-947-9020. A Diamond Tours Motor coach trip is planned for May 18-23, 2014 to the Biltmore Estates and Ashville, NC. The trip includes 5 nights lodging, 5 breakfasts, 3 dinners, tour of Ashville, full day at the Biltmore Estates and Gardens along with the Antler Village and Winery, St. Lawrence Bascilica and the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. Cost is $529 based on double occupancy. A deposit of $75 will hold your seat. Call Marianne @ 708-562-3766 for more information. A Mayflower Tour is also planned for September 25 – October 1, 2014 to Mackinac Island and the Grand Hotel featuring Agawa Canyon Autumn Foliage Train Ride (PASSPORT REQUIRED). This trip includes 6 nights lodging (2 at the Grand Hotel) 11 meals. The cost is $2,069 per person based on double occupancy. Some discounts apply if booked by October 30, 2013. Insurance is extra. Call Marianne @ 708-562-3766 for information. Space is limited.

The Divine Infant Jesus School student body will be Praying the Rosary – 12:30 PM at Divine Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Newcastle Avenue. Come join us. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122.

Wednesday, December 11Table Grace, 11:30 AM, Grace

Lutheran and Divine Providence Churches, Divine Providence Ministry Center, 2540 Mayfair


BAR-W (Grades 1st-6th )/Ambassadors (Grades 7th -12th) from 6:45 PM – 8:00 PM at Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Road Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org



Thursday, December 12Early Childhood Screening at WPS

(by appointment only) The Cook County Multi-Jurisdictional

All Hazards Mitigation Steering

Committee will be hosting a Public Meeting in the Village of Westchester Board Room. The meeting will be held from 6pm until 8:30pm. All residents of Cook County are invited to attend the meeting to learn about a recent study on Cook County’s vulnerability to natural hazards.

Friday, December 13 Holiday Dance at WMS from 2:50-

5:15 PMAddiction Program (RU) at 7:00 PM

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

Saturday, December 14 Here Comes Santa Claus from 9:30

– 11:00 AM at Library. Registration required. Contact Youth Dept at (708) 562-3573.

Advent Individual Reconciliation, 4:00-4:30 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

Market Day Pick-up 8:30-9:30 AM at Divine Providence School, 2500 Mayfair Avenue,

708-562-2258, www.divineprovidenceschool.org

Sunday, December 15Family Mass with a Visit by St.

Nicholas, 10:30 AM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

St Nicholas Celebration, 11:30-1:00, Divine Providence School Mayfair Room, 2500 Mayfair

Christmas Cantata 10,000 Hallelujah’s from 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM at Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Road Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org

Sunday School/Worship Service/Evening Service 9:30 AM /10:45 AM /6:00PM at Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Road Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org

Monday, December 16 Senior Matinee Holiday Special

featuring “Christmas In Connecticut” 2:00 PM at Library. Contact Adult Dept or call 708-562-3573.

Advent Individual Reconciliation, 1:00 - 2:00 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

Tuesday, December 17 Winter Band Concert at WIS at 7:00

PM

Wednesday, December 18Table Grace, 1130 AM, Divine

Providence and Grace Lutheran Churches, 1101 Manchester


BAR-W (Grades 1st-6th )/

calenDar

See CALENDAR, page 8

calenDar8 DECEMBER 2013

Ambassadors (Grades 7th -12th) from 6:45 PM – 8:00 PM at Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Road Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org



Market Day pick-up from 5:30 – 6:30 PM in Langan Hall at Divine Infant Jesus. Contact Toni Podock at 708-865-8071 for more information.

Thursday, December 19Teetering Tots Playgroup 9:30-10:30

AM at Divine Providence School, 2500 Mayfair Avenue,

708-562-2258, www.divineprovidenceschool.org

Christmas Choral Concert will be held at 1:00 PM & 7:00 PM at Divine Infant Jesus School, 1640 Newcastle Avenue. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122.

Friday, December 20 Taize Prayer, 7:30 PM, Divine

Providence Church, 2600 MayfairLast Day of School before Christmas

Break at Divine Providence School, 2500 Mayfair Avenue, 708-562-2258, www.divineprovidenceschool.org

Addiction Program (RU) at 7:00 PMat Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Road Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org

Pre -School/Pre -Kindergar ten Christmas Show at 9:45 AM in Langan Hall at Divine Infant Jesus School, 1640 Newcastle Ave. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122.

Saturday, December 21 Advent Individual Reconciliation,

3:30-4:30 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

Saturday, December 21 and Sunday, December 22

Christmas Food Drive Before 5 PM, 8:30 AM and 10:30 AM Masses, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

Sunday, December 22 Sunday School/Worship Service/


Monday, December 23

EDC Meeting at 7:30 AM in the Community Room of Village Hall.

Advent Individual Reconciliation, 7:00-8:00 PM, Divine Providence Church.

Monday, December 23 through Friday, January 3

Winter Break, No School for Westchester Public Schools

Christmas Break for Divine Providence School, 2500 Mayfair Avenue, 708-562-2258, www.divineprovidenceschool.org

Tuesday, December 24 Christmas Eve services will be held

at Westchester Community Church, 1840 Westchester Blvd, at 7:00 and 4:30 PM, all are welcome.

Christmas Eve Family Mass with Angels and Shepherds, 3:45 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

Christmas Eve Anticipated Mass, 5:30 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

Christmas Eve “Midnight Mass” 10:30 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

Candle Light Christmas Eve Service from 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM at Westchester Bible Church 10600 W. Cermak Road Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org

No Village Board or COW Meeting due to the holiday

Tuesday, December 24 through Wednesday, Decem-ber 25

Library closed for Christmas holiday

Wednesday, December 25

Christmas Day Masses, 8:30 and 10:30 AM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

Village Hall Offices closed in observance of the holiday

Friday, December 27Addiction Program (RU) at 7:00 PMat

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

Sunday, December 29 Sunday School/Worship Service/


Tuesday, December 31Solemnity of Mary (Holyday of

Obligation) Anticipated Mass, 5:00 PM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair

Tuesday, December 31 through Wednesday, January 1

Library closed for New Year’s holiday.

Wednesday, January 1 Solemnity of Mary (Holyday of

Obligation), Masses at 8:30 and 10:30 AM, 2600 Mayfair

Village Hall closed for New Year’s holiday.

Friday, January 3Fish Fry Fundraiser from 4:30 PM-7:30

PM. Westchester Community Church, 1840 Westchester Blvd., Westchester.

Serving shrimp, fried cod or fried chicken, and rotisserie chicken. Each dinner comes with 2 sides, bread, and a dessert. Adult dinners are $10. Children’s menu includes hot dog meal for $4 and fried chicken or fish for $6. Contact the church office for more details 708-865-1282 between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM

First Friday Day of Eucharistic Adoration, 8:00 AM Opening Prayers until 7:00 PM Benediction, Divine Providence Church 2600 Mayfair

Sunday, January 5Family Game Day from 1:30 to

2:30 PM at Library. Play family board games, including Monopoly, Candyland, Connect4 and many more – program for all ages in Youth Dept.

Monday, January 6Classes Resume for Westchester

Public SchoolsClasses Resume 8:00 AM Divine

Providence School, 2500 Mayfair Avenue, 708-562-2258, www.divineprovidenceschool.org

School resumes at Divine Infant Jesus School, 1640 Newcastle Avenue. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122.

Tuesday, January 7Board of Education Committee of

the Whole at WMS at 6:30 PMDivine Infant Jesus School Advisory

Board Meeting at 7:00 PM at the Rectory, 1601 Newcastle Avenue. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122.

CALENDARContinued from page 7

Congratulations to the following Westchester residents who will be performing in Ballet Legere,’s 29th production of the “Nutcracker” Saturday and Sunday December 14th and 15th. Tickets can be purchased at www.legere.org or by calling 773-237-1872 Alexa Auriemma, Julia Auriemma, Nicole Flowers, Violet Masek, Sophie Nevers, Katie Nunamaker, Vanessa Scafuri, Marisa Trelenberg (pictured above).

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The CAB is continuing to collect for the Westchester Food Pantry until the end of the month. Any nonperishable items are greatly appreciated. Donation bins are located at the Village Hall, and both Park District buildings.

Toys for Tots donations are also

being collected until December 10th. Toy donations can be dropped off at the Village Hall and both Park District buildings as well.

The CAB would like to thank everyone for their participation and helping those less fortunate during this time of the year.

CAB Continues Food Drive and Toys for Tots Collection

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Feature article

We at NORCOMM welcome the Village of Westchester to our 9-1-1 center. NORCOMM works to maintain policies and procedures that are best practices in the 9-1-1 industry. We would like to provide some information to Westchester residents and businesses about how NORCOMM will process their call for assistance.

How Does My Call Get to 9-1-1?

When you call from a phone at a residence, business, or other landline based phone, the phone number of the phone determines which 9-1-1 center the call is routed to for assistance. In Illinois, 9-1-1 centers have a list of phone numbers that are designated to come to that center. The telephone numbers are directed by the phone company when they are established that routes your call to the correct 9-1-1 center.

Cell phone calls are processed differently, though there are similarities. Cell phones transmit a signal to the nearest cellular tower. The signal is transmitted to the closest 9-1-1 center, as determined by the location of the cell tower that receives incoming call. Sometimes, you are not routed to the correct 9-1-1 call center; however, the staff is trained to direct your call to the correct center to get the help you need.

There are some locations near a town, village, or county border that may direct calls to a different jurisdiction, or multiple 9-1-1 centers. In those cases, you might speak to more than one dispatcher, as each 9-1-1 center involved gathers the information they need as directed by individual agency protocols.

If you are hearing or speech impaired, Illinois 9-1-1 agencies are equipped with a Text Telephone (TTY), also known as a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) device to allow communication through your TTY/TDD device. NORCOMM personnel are also trained to work with relay services, and are able to handle your request.

You cannot text to 9-1-1. This is a common misconception, and something that the industry is working towards at this time. As the next generation of 9-1-1

technology evolves, there will be a multitude of media that will be received by 9-1-1 call centers. We look forward to this enhancement and being able to serve you better by getting more information for public safety responders.

If you do not speak English, we are able to contact a language line service to provide an interpreter. It helps us if you are able to tell us the name of the language you speak in English.

Can I remain anonymous?

When you speak to our dispatchers, let them know if you want to remain anonymous. We will do all we can to protect the identity of our callers, and will work with Westchester Police and Fire Departments to do the same if possible.

Once you reach 9-1-1, the dispatcher will ask you some questions. If you do not have an emergency, the dispatcher may refer you to a non-emergency number for assistance. By referring the calls to another number, we can process your request more efficiently and put you in touch with someone who can give you the information you need. Additionally, lines for assistance can be cleared to further answer more incoming 9-1-1 call volume.

If you do have an emergency, the dispatcher will ask some questions to determine who to send. Some of these questions will be:

• Where is your emergency? We need to know the location where the emergency occurred. Often, someone may call for a person at another location. Also, your information transmitted by the 9-1-1 call record needs to be verified to make sure we are sending help to the proper location. NORCOMM dispatchers would like to know an exact address, but sometimes you won’t know that information. If you are able to provide a cross street, or a block where a call may be occurring it will be helpful. The more information you can provide, the faster our personnel and the responders will be able to locate the problem or request for assistance. We will ask for cross

streets, what kind of building it is, what color is it and other questions to help us find you as quickly as possible.

• What is your callback number? We will ask to verify the number you are calling from for your request. Please don’t forget to give the area code for the phone. Phone records that are transmitted to us from the 9-1-1 call record are treated as a fallback only, and we do not rely on that information unless that is the case. The people who enter the records at the phone company are human, and subject to errors.

• What is the emergency/what happened? We need to know what problem that you are calling for at this time. If you are able to provide information that helps our responders determine a level of response, and assists us in properly processing the call.

• When did this occur/How long ago? Information obtained from how long ago a call occurred will also assist the dispatcher in determining a level or response. Also, additional resources may be needed.

• Who is the victim? You may be calling for a neighbor or a friend, or for someone you do not know who you see or are in front of your home. We will ask this question so that we can locate the person that responders need to help. We may also ask for a physical, clothing, or vehicle description.

• Is an ambulance needed? NORCOMM personnel can provide Emergency Medical Dispatch instructions, as well as send an appropriate medical response based upon the information received. A person who is involved in an auto accident may or may not be injured. By asking this information, we can dispatch the call more effectively and shorten response times.

• Who is the offender? You may be a witness to a crime, and your help is appreciated. By giving information that you have seen to our dispatch personnel, the information can be relayed to first responders who can use that information to assist their response. Clothing, Vehicle, and Physical identifiers will be asked. If you did not see anyone, but only heard a sound, that is ok too. We appreciate the information in helping our personnel.

• Are there any weapons involved? The safety of the citizens of Westchester and our first responders is paramount. Information that is received can help reduce the risk of public safety personnel and help decrease the chance of any potential injury. Again, you may be asked additional questions depending on your information, and we appreciate the help you are giving.

While we ask the questions, we are entering the information into a computerized dispatch system. Our dispatchers can see that information and send help to you while we are still talking to you on the phone. Answering questions does not delay response. We will often keep you on the phone and obtain more information to give the Police/Fire/EMS responders.

NORCOMM also provides Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) instruction. These pre-arrival questions help first responders and can provide such medical instructions in life saving techniques such as CPR, choking assistance, and childbirth assistance. Our personnel are trained in this procedure and maintain a certification and license through the State of Illinois with the Illinois Department of Public Health. We regularly train and are guided under the Loyola University Medical System. The information and assistance we provide and relay to the responders may improve the quality of care the EMS personnel can provide.

NORCOMM personnel track of all the responding units and all of the calls waiting for service for our agencies. Sometimes it is necessary to change the assignment of a unit so they can respond to a different call that is more of an emergency. Dispatchers are trained to prioritize and handle multiple calls for assistance at the same time. Dispatchers may ask you to wait on the line while another request is answered, and return to your call. Please do not hang up, we will return to your call and complete your request for assistance.

If you are interested in learning more about 9-1-1, please contact NORCOMM at 630-903-2481. Our Public Education Committee would be happy to assist you.

How NORCOMM works in Westchester

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space heaters can put you and your family at risk of fire or burn injuries. Any heater that uses wood, coal, natural gas, or kerosene products produces carbon monoxide gas. Adequate ventilation is essential. Never use charcoal grills or sterno-type fuels as indoor sources of heat.

Carbon monoxide (CO) cannot be seen or smelled. High levels can kill a person in minutes. CO is produced whenever a fuel such as gas, oil, kerosene, wood, or charcoal is burned. If appliances that burn fuel are maintained and used properly, the amount of CO produced is usually not hazardous. Hundreds of people die accidentally every year from CO poisoning caused by malfunctioning or improperly used fuel burning appliances. Symptoms of mild to moderate CO poisoning may resemble winter flu or food poisoning, particularly in children, and headaches, dizziness, nausea, and lethargy. Mild to moderate CO poisoning also may have long term effects on your health. Higher levels of exposure can cause fainting, marked confusion and collapse. If exposure continues, death can result.

Make sure each level of your home has a working carbon monoxide detector and smoke alarm.

RECOMMENDED WINTER ATTIREWear loose fitting, lightweight, warm

clothing in several layers since the trapped air between the layers insulate you. Layers can be removed to avoid perspiration and subsequent chill.

Wear outer garments that are tightly woven, water repellent and hooded.

Wear a hat. Half of body heat is lost through the top of the head.

Wear mittens that are snug at the wrist. Mittens offer better protection. Gloves allow your fingers to cool much faster than mittens.

Cover the mouth and nose with scarves to help protect lungs from cold air.

Keep your feet as dry as possible. Wear wool socks.

COLD TEMPERATURES135 people have died from exposure

to the cold temperatures in Illinois since 1997.

WINTER STORMSOn average, Illinois experiences

5 severe winter storms each year. There has not been a winter in Illinois without at least 1 winter storm in the past century.

Winter driving conditions contribute

to an average of 29,260 vehicle crashes, 4,450 injuries and 51 fatalities in Illinois each year.

SNOWFALLAverage annual snowfall ranges from

37 inches of snow in Rockford and Chicago, to as little as 6-10 inches at the southern tip of Illinois.

The greatest snowfall on record from a single storm occurred near the town of Astoria in Fulton County, where 37.8 inches was recorded on February 27-28, 1900.

ICE STORMSOn average, locations from just south

of Quincy, through Lincoln, to Watseka experience more freezing rain and ice storms than any other part of the state.

WINTER WEATHER TERMSThe National Weather Service

uses the terms below to convey the weather threat to the public.

WATCHES, WARNINGS AND ADVISO-RIES

Winter Storm Watch: Indicates severe winter weather such as heavy snow or ice is possible within the next day or two.

Winter Storm Warning: Indicates heavy snow (greater than 6 inches), heavy sleet (1/2 inch or greater), or a combination of winter weather hazards are likely or occurring. Stay indoors and adjust travel plans.

Ice Storm Warning: Heavy accumulations of ice will create extremely dangerous travel conditions, damage trees and likely cause extended power outages.

Blizzard Warning: Strong winds of 35 mph or greater will produce blinding snow, near zero visibility, deep drifts and life-threatening conditions, especially for travelers.

Wind Chill Warning: Life threatening wind chills of minus 25 degrees or colder.

Winter Weather Advisory: Indicates snow accumulation 2 to 5 inches, or a combination of winter weather conditions will cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous, especially to travelers. Use caution if you venture out!

Freezing Rain Advisory: Light accumulations of ice will cause hazardous travel.

Wind Chill Advisory: Dangerous wind chills of minus 15 degrees to minus 24 degrees.

FROSTBITE AWARENESSFrostbite is the freezing of skin and

extremities on the body. The nose, cheeks, ears, fingers, and toes are most commonly affected. Everyone is susceptible, even people who have

been living in cold climates for most of their lives.

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

In Deep Frostbite, there is an initial decrease in sensation that is eventually completely lost. Swelling and blood-filled blisters are noted over white or yellowish skin that looks waxy and turns purplish blue as it re-warms. The area is hard, has no resistance when pressed on, and may even appear blackened and dead.

Treatment for Frostbite:Get the person to a warm place

as soon as possible and then seek immediate medical help.

Softly handle or warm the area gently: never rub the affected area.

Gently warm up slowly soaking the affected area in luke warm water (100-105 degrees F). Do not expose directly or close to a fire.

Loosely bandage the area with dry, sterile dressings

If the person’s fingers or toes are frostbitten, place dry sterile gauze between them to keep them separated.

Avoid breaking any blisters.Do Not allow the affected area to re-

freeze.More Winter Weather information

can be found on the State of Illinois Web Site: www.ReadyIllinois.gov

NICOR GASNicor Gas is committed to helping

their customers prepare for the winter season. They have several programs that can provide assistance with managing heating bills and natural gas use. Non profit organizations and federal, state, and local agencies offer a variety of programs to assist qualified individuals. If you or any of your friends or family are having trouble paying their energy bills, help is available by calling 1-877-411-WARM (9276) or web site www.liheap.com

The Nicor Gas Sharing Program provides a one-time annual grant for your heating bill that does not need to be repaid. Call 1-773-205-3520 or visit the website at www.niocorgas.com

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN PUBLIC OUTREACH

On Thursday, December 12, 2013, the Cook County Multi-Jurisdictional All Hazards Mitigation Steering Committee will be hosting a Public Meeting in the Village of Westchester Board Room. The meeting will be held from 6pm until 8:30pm. All residents of Cook County are invited to attend the meeting to learn about a recent

study on Cook County’s vulnerability to natural hazards. This study’s findings will help local governments plan projects to reduce the risk from hazards before they happen and to help recover more quickly afterwards. Do you know the risks to your home? Come to the meeting to find out! Learn about the natural hazards that we face in Cook County and how vulnerable your own home may be. Computer workstations will be set up at the meeting to show you which natural hazards have the potential to affect your property.

The Goals developed by the Steering Committee are:

Develop and implement sustainable, cost-effective, and environmentally sound risk-reduction (mitigation) projects.

Protect the lives, health, safety, and property of the citizens of Cook County from the impacts of natural hazards.

Protect public services and critical facilities, including infrastructure, from loss of use during natural hazard events and potential damage from such events.

Involve stakeholders to enhance the local capacity to mitigate, prepare for, and respond to the impacts of natural hazards.

Develop, promote, and integrate mitigation action plans.

Promote public understanding of and support for hazard mitigation.

All residents are requested to take the public information survey at:

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/CookCountyHazMit

For more information go to the website at www.cookcountyhomelandsecurity.org/hazard-mitigation-plan.

ILLINOIS COMPTROLLER OPENS THE WAREHOUSE

Illinois Comptroller Judy Barr Topinka launched THE WAREHOUSE, a comprehensive online database that puts local government financial information and tens of thousands of records at a single location for taxpayer review. Each year, the Comptroller’s Office collects financial reports from 5,200 counties, municipalities and special taxing districts across the state. In creating “The Warehouse”, Ms. Topinka has made those records and other pertinent local financial information collected by her office immediately available for residents. The Warehouse is available at www.warehouse.illinoiscomptroller.com.

ILLINOIS TREASURER ANNOUNCES OPERATION REUNITE & I-CASH PRO-GRAM



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Illinois Treasurer Dan Rutherford announces Operation Reunite that researches names from safe deposit boxes that were transferred to the treasurer’s offi ce with military medals, ribbons, paperwork and more. The Capital vault currently holds 110 military medals. The current list of Operation Reunite names is available at www.treasurer.il.gov. Search for the Operation Reunite Banner, and scroll down to see the list of names of people for whom the contents of a safe deposit box are being held.

The I-Cash program helps reunite owners with their unclaimed property. The Unclaimed Property Division has 1.8 billion in cash, plus contents from Illinois safe deposit boxes that have been inactive for at least 5 years. To fi nd out if you have unclaimed property through I-Cash, visit www.treasurer.il.gov and follow the I-Cash link. You can also contact the Unclaimed Property Division by calling 1-217-785-6998 or email [email protected]. Please Note: searches cannot be completed by telephone.

ILLINOIS ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY LOAN

The Village of Westchester has received notice from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) that they have found that our plan to repaint the exterior of the elevated water tank located on Enterprise Drive is technically appropriate and cost effective. As you may remember, the Village applied for a low interest loan through the IEPA to repaint the interior and exterior of our overhead water tank several years ago. The painting of the wet and dry interiors was a higher priority and had been completed in 2011. The elevated tank was constructed in 1982 and had spot repairs in 1992. An inspection in 2010 revealed areas of rust, coating breakdown, and erosion in various areas of the tanks exterior. The estimated cost associated with the project is $804,900. The annual loan repayment based upon a loan for 20 years is 1.995% or $48,839 annually. The project will commence in Spring 2014.

CHICAGO RAISES WATER RATE ONCE AGAIN

The Broadview-Westchester Water Agency has received correspondence that the City of Chicago is again raising the water rates to those municipalities receiving Lake Michigan water processed through Chicago. The proposed rate increase is 15%. The

Broadview-Westchester Joint Water Agency has decided to pass the increase on to their customers. Those customers include the Villages of Broadview and Westchester, Madden Mental Health Center, Hines Hospital, and Loyola Hospital. Three percent of the increase has been earmarked for infrastructure projects to the aging piping system that spans from the Chicago connection at Austin Blvd. east along Garfi eld Street through Oak Park, Forest Park, beneath the Des Plaines River, under the Eisenhower Expressway, to the 10th Avenue Pump Station located in Broadview. The 16 inch cast iron piping system has been in place since its completion in 1928.

On November 4, 2013, the West Central Municipal Conference Suburban Water Task Force announced that it is calling on all metropolitan members of the Illinois General assembly to create a nexus between any legislation establishing a casino gaming license for the City of Chicago and reduction in water rates for all customers of the City of Chicago. Westchester and 50 municipalities and councils of government are members of WCMC.

PROPERTY TAX APPEAL SEMINAROn Tuesday, November 19th, Cook

County Board of Review Commissioner Dan Patlak and Proviso Township

Assessor Steven Zawaski, and their respective staffs, were present and available to answer questions about the property tax appeal process. Commissioner Patlak addressed many questions from residents who attended. Taxpayers can access all pertinent information related to their property, like property descriptions, property tax billing history, and tax appeal deadlines by visiting www.cookcountypropertyinfo.com.

MCCOOK QUARRY EARTHQUAKEOn November 4th, at approximately

12:30 pm, the Village of Westchester received many calls as residents felt the ground beneath their feet begin to shake violently. Initial reports were that an earthquake occurred somewhere in Indian Head Park, Illinois, a few suburbs south of Westchester. As the day went on, it was learned that the Hansen Material Service Corporation was doing some blasting and that may have been the reason for the earth shaking. It appears that both may have occurred. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) determined that after examining information available from Hansen there was in fact an earthquake of a 3.2 magnitude. The USGS further determined that the blast and tremor were two separate events.



WELCOME NEW FINANCE DIRECTORVillage Manager Janet Matthys has

informed the Board that she has selected Ms. Maureen Potempa as our new finance director effective Monday, November 18th. Ms. Potempa will lead the Department of Finance with the primary responsibility of overseeing a staff of 3 full and 3 part time employees in the finance and administration department including customer service, general ledger accounting and reconciliation, financial reporting, payroll, utility billing, cash receipts, accounts receivable and accounts payable. She will also be responsible for coordinating the Village’s annual audit and Comprehensive Annual Financial Report. Maureen has over 15 years of experience in accounting and finance. Please join me in welcoming Maureen to the Village of Westchester.

FIRE & POLICE PENSION COSTSBased on an actuarial valuation as of

April 30, 2012, the Firefighters Pension Fund is 78.33% funded. From 2010 to 2012, the Fire Pension funding level has increased from 76.95% to 78.33%. The Fire Department Pension Board actuary is recommending a tax levy of $707,271 or 33.20% of payroll to provide contributions to the plan for the plan year ending April 30, 2015. The actuary has calculated the minimum statutory tax levy at $600.213 or 28.17% of payroll. The recommended contribution calculated under GASB-25 (accounting standard) is $724,849 of 34.02% of payroll.

Based on an actuarial valuation as of April 30, 2012, the Police Pension Fund is 69.16 % funded. From 2010 to 2012, the Police Pension funding level has decreased from 79.64% to 69.16%. The Police Pension Board actuary is recommending a tax levy of $1,053,264 or 41.97% of payroll to provide contributions to the plan for the plan year ending April 30, 2015. The actuary has calculated the minimum statutory tax levy at $898,882 or 35.73% of payroll. The recommended contribution calculated under GASB-25 (accounting standard) is $1,024.930 or 40.84% of payroll.

These recommended contribution levels will be considered when preparing the Village’s 2013 tax levy and in preparing our annual budget for the 2014–2015 fiscal year. Pension contributions to the Police and Firefighter Pension Plans aggregated 10.78% of the total budgeted expenditures for the Village’s General Fund in the annual budget for the 2013-2014 fiscal year.

FROM THE BOARDAt the Tuesday, November 12th

Board Meeting the following items were approved:

Under the Consent AgendaApproval of the Record of Bills

ending 11-7-2013 in the amount not to exceed $1,518,238.72.

Approval of Monthly Department Reports for October 2013 including; Public Works, Fire, Police and Community Development.

Approval of Minutes from the October 3, 2013 Village Board and Committee of the Whole Meetings.

An Ordinance Amending Chapter 5.36, Entitled “Liquor Sale” of Title 5, Entitled “Business Licenses and Regulations,” of the Village of Westchester Municipal Code. A Class D Liquor License was approved for Anna’s Café located at 10261 Roosevelt Road.

An Ordinance Waiving the Competitive Bidding and Authorizing the Execution of a Contract for the Purchase and Installation of Computer Software from Civic Systems, LLC in the amount of $98,550.00. Staff reviewed proposals from 4 companies before recommending Civic Systems. Civic Systems had prior experience in converting our antiquated LOCIS System to be compatible with the much needed new general ledger software.

An Ordinance Waiving the Competitive Bidding and Authorizing the Purchase of Public Works Equipment and the Disposal of Surplus Property. Since the Village is purchasing a new John Deere endloader to replace our current 24 year old endloader that has served past its life expectancy. 3 Proposals were reviewed by staff and the John Deere was recommended as it was the low quote of $125,300. The surplus property includes the trade of the old endloader for the amount of $17,000, which will make the purchase price $108,300, which will be financed over 5 years.

A Resolution Approving a Change Order to the Contract with G&M Cement Construction Inc related to the 2013 Street Improvement Program in the Amount of $232,862.55. The additional amount was expended to complete additional concrete work associated with our street repair and replacement program this year.

A Motion to Receive and File the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the Fiscal Year Ended April 30, 2013. The Audit Document was prepared by the Finance Department and is available for review on the village website.

Under the Active AgendaAn Ordinance Amending the

Municipal Code of the Village of Westchester to Require Interior

Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems in the Construction of New One and Two Family Dwellings within the Village of Westchester. Trustee and Fire Lieutenant Nick Steker brought this item to the attention of the Board who unanimously approved the requirement of having a Fire Sprinkler System for new construction

A Resolution Determining the Estimated Property Taxes to be Levied for the 2013 Tax Year for the Village of Westchester. Village Manager Janet Matthys presented the 2013 tax levy request to the Board. A request of a 4.9% increase was presented to reflect the amount of money required to operate both the Village of Westchester municipal services and also the Westchester Public Library. The actual amount to be collected is tied to the Consumer Price Index or whichever is less. For this year the CPI is 1%.

At the Tuesday, November 12th Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items were presented/discussed:

Under New Business The 2013 Tax Levy. The Engineering Services for

the Enterprise Drive Collector. Enterprise Drive from Cermak Road to Wolf Rd. via Constitution Ave. is scheduled to be repaved in the fall of 2014. Hancock Engineering is handling the project.

The purchase of a V-Body Salt Spreader. Mr. Stoiser requested we purchase a V-Body Salt Spreader to compliment the one we presently are using with great success.

The Sale of Surplus Public Works equipment which included a 1991 Ford L8000, Five Yard Dump Truck, and a 1998 Chevrolet 2500 Pick-up Truck.

The Plan Commission Recommendation to Approve Petition PC-13-0001 Special Use for Drive-Thru (Angel Associates, LP, Petitioner). The Plan Commission approved the addition of a Burger King drive-through lane to be added to the BP Amoco property at Mannheim and Gladstone Ave. The drive through lane is proposed for the east end of the property with entry off of Gladstone and exit on the north end of the property.

The Plan Commission Recommendation to Approve Petition PC-13-0002 Text Amendments to Chapters 18.58 of Title 18 of the Village of Westchester Zoning Ordinance (Village of Westchester, Petitioner). The Plan Commission recommended approval of crown signage for the Westbrook Corporate Center.

The Economic Development Committee’s recommendation to adopt a façade grant program for

Fiscal Year 2014-2015 presented by Trustee Perry and Ms. Headley. Discussed was the ability to place a certain amount of dollars for façade and or signage upgrades to Westchester business owners. A suggested dollar amount was $60,000 with a maximum amount to any property owner of $7,500. Further plan development will be forthcoming.

Economic Development Committee’s recommendation to consider TIF study redevelopment areas. Several areas of redevelopment throughout the Village were mentioned and discussed by the Village Board.

The Chicago Water Rate Increase (See above information).

The Video Gaming Application. A discussion occurred regarding the application process the Village was putting in place to allow video gaming. Applicants will be required to receive prior approval for video gaming from the State of Illinois before submitting an application to the Village of Westchester for approval. The State of Illinois Video Gaming Application, which is quite expansive, will be required to be submitted to the Village for review. A hearing before the Liquor Commissioner (the Village President) accompanied by two Village Trustees will also be required before any recommendation to the full Village Board will be made.

Request for license plate recognition software by Chief Carpino. In this year’s budget, a license plate recognition reader was approved but not purchased. Chief Carpino informed the Board of the cost and benefits for the reader that will enable police to read license plates to enhance law enforcement objectives.

Chief Carpino has requested approval to sell police department equipment to a law enforcement authorized provider. The shotguns have been taken out of service for sometime replaced by rifles.

Under Information OnlyHandicapped Parking Spaces. Based

on my recommendation, a review of all property having off street parking was done to determine whether they were in compliance with the disability protection laws requiring handicapped parking. This office has received complaints that a number of parking areas were not properly marked and in some cases did not have handicapped parking available. Village Attorney Durkin stated that all property must be in compliance with the act. Letters will be forthcoming to those locations found not in compliance.

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The Italian American War Veterans, Joseph Gentile Post #2, held its annual Pasta Party fundraiser on November 1, 2013. All proceeds go to Hines VA Hospital, Hines, IL for a variety of hospitalized veterans activities. For example:

1. Patients from Hines’s Extended Care and Blind Centers go to Joliet Speedway for an outing. Lunch is included.

2. They are also taken to Kane County Cougar baseball games. Lunch is included.

3. Post members sponsor and pay for bingo at Hines four times annually. All patients who participate receive a gift. Special Christmas gifts are issued.

4. Post members lend support for Hines Winter Games.

We are proud that Boy Scout Troop #1 from the Village of Westchester participated by serving as Color Guard. Thank you to the Scouts (Eddie Colaianni, Zach Frey, Liam Patrick, Jesus Valdez, and Maurice Walker) and Ofc. Rob Verber for the proper training of procedure. The scouts made a wonderful impression on our guests and the veterans from the Blind Center who joined us for the evening.

Post members donate over 7,000 hours annually to Volunteer Services.

Italian American War Veterans Pasta Party Fundraiser

Troop 1 Boy Scouts with Post 2 Commander Joe Spiner and veterans from Hines Hospital Central Blind Rehabilitation Center. Pictured, standing left to right, Jesus Valdez, Zach Frey, Liam Patrick, Eddie Colaianni, and Maurice Walker, with Post 2 Commander Joe Spiner and veterans from Hines.

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Westchester AYSO ended its 11th Fall soccer season with it’s annual End of the Year Pizza Party on November 10th. Over 400 players from the league ages 4-18 and their volunteer coaches were invited to attend. Each player received a medal and yearbook at the party. Fore several years the region has awarded a $250 high school scholarship to one female and one male. All 8th grade players are eligible and must write an essay about “the values they learned while playing in AYSO that will help them as they enter high school” This years winners were Brooklyn Sampson and Kevin Quinn both students at Westchester Middle School.

AYSO is an all volunteer organization that nationwide will be celebrating 50 years come 2014. Watch for their fl oat in the Rose Bowl Parade on New years Day. Westchester is one of nearly 1000 regions nationwide.

Westchester AYSO played soccer at Community Park for 8 weekends this fall. The U19 division played games against other neighboring regions with Mayfair Park being their home fi eld. The season included an annual “Kick the Can” food drive benefi ting the Westchester Food Pantry by collect food and money that was

donated to the pantry. The players and families also supported Breast Cancer with an awareness day on the fi eld, featuring the selling of pink socks and cookies as well as the region donating their half of the split the pot earnings for the week to the American Cancer Society. Additionally a U10 and U12 in house all day tournament was held in the end of October.

Westchester AYSO is run by approximately 10-12 board members that meet throughout the year to train and plan for the Fall season. During the season a hundred or so volunteers set up the fi elds, coach , referee, work the concession stand and more. The organization has several teens that are trained and are Jr. referees each weekend. AYSO in Westchester began 11 years ago with about 170 players and has grown to well over 400 players enjoying the game for the last few seasons.

Registration will be held in the Spring for the Fall 2014 season. It will include the pilot season in Westchester of AYSO VIP a division for children with special needs. Check the website in the new year for more details as they become available. http://www.westchesterayso.org/

Westchester AYSO ends 11th year

26 DECEMBER 2013

Starting in January 2014, West Suburban Senior Services will be offering two new groups free of charge for Proviso Township residents age 60 and over.

A grief support group will be meeting the 1st and 3rd Thursday

of the month from1pm-2:30pm. We understand that it hurts to lose a loved one. The knowledge that another person is feeling the same as you are and knowing you are not alone in your grief can help with your healing. For more information about

this group please contact Gerry at 708-234-1812

A friendship group will be meeting the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month from 1pm-2:30pm. If you’re looking to connect with new people and make new friends, then this group

is for you. Friendships can help your physical and emotional well-being, lower stress, and make it easier to cope with problems. For more information about this group please contact Janet at 708-234-1817.

West Suburban Senior Services also

The 4-H Cloverbud program, sponsored by the University of Illinois Extension Office, is an opportunity that helps build confident kids. Specially designed for youngsters ages five through seven, the 4-H Cloverbud program gets kids excited about learning. The 4-H Cloverbud program uses hands-on learning activities to help kids explore art, plants and animals, science, and the environment. Youngsters also engage in group activities that promote personal development, healthy lifestyles, and a sense of citizenship.

Now, Westchester and surrounding communities are forming their own

Cloverbud group. We invite parents to join us for an informational meeting on Tuesday, November 19 at 6:30pm at the Westchester Public Library, 10700 Canterbury Street, Westchester.

There, parents will learn about Cloverbud curriculum, volunteer opportunities and meeting schedules, and receive membership packets.

The cost is $20.00 per child for one year.

Financial assistance is available. Cloverbud meetings will be the first Monday of January-June 2014 at the Westchester Public Library at 6:30pm. For more information, contact Amanda Grant at 708-409-1214.

WSSS offers two new free programs

Westchester forming4-H Cloverbuds group

Public WorksDECEMBER 2013 27

28 DECEMBER 2013

PLEASE RECYCLE ME!

The Village of Westchester is a member in the Community Ranking System (CRS) which is monitored by the NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program).

Membership in this elite group of communities allows Westchester to accomplish the following:

1. Educate residents about how to prevent damage from disasters when possible.

2. Educate residents on what to do during and after a disaster occurs.

3. Obtain funding for Westchester to complete projects to help reduce damage to the resident’s homes in case of disasters.

4. Obtain a percent discount on premiums for resident’s fl ood insurance policies.

We are starting by publishing a

FIRM (Flood Insurance Rate Map) map. This shows the fl oodplain, as determined by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) and where the fl oodplain overlays resident’s homes. This is why some resident’s require fl ood insurance and others do not. If your house appears in the fl oodplain that is the reason mortgage companies require you to have fl ood insurance. Please

note you do not have to be in the fl oodplain to have fl ood insurance, nor do you need to have a mortgage.

This is an ongoing commitment from the Village of Westchester to educate our residents to increase safety during a disaster and reduce damage during the same. If you have any questions please forward them to Village Hall, and we will try to answer them in a timely fashion.

Community Ranking System

december 2013 westchester, il newsletter

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