December, 2014

11 Conti ParkwayElmwood Park, IL 60707

p. 708.452.7300f. 708.452.3957

Angelo “Skip” SavianoVillage President

Gina PeskoVillage Clerk

Alan KaminskiJeff Sargent

Angela StrangesAnthony Del SantoAngelo J. Lollino

Jonathan L. ZivojnovicVillage Trustees

Happy 100tH anniversary

elmwood park Centennial Celebration

Coming to a CloseDec. 6th marks the end of a fabulous Centennial year!

Dec. 6 “Centennial Holiday stroll”

9 a.m. to 6 p.m.In “The Village Circle” Holiday Arts & Crafts,

Food Truck Concessions, Indoor “Breakfast with Santa”,

Village Tree Lighting Ceremony …and much, much more!

See page 2 for a detailed event schedule.

page 4New Snow Removal Parking Restrictions

page 5 2015 Vehicle Stickers Available online NOW!

page 6 Seniors Snow Removal Program

page 7 News from ‘The Library’ –

including holiday gift ideas!

page 8 Village Deputy Mayor Alan Kaminski reports on Village

infrastructure projects.

a message from Village President skip savianoAs we wrap up one of the most historic years in Elmwood Park, I am pleased to say I could not be more optimistic about our future. The way in which our residents and our business and civic leaders have come together to celebrate our centennial is impressive!

Now we look to the last event of an incredible year of celebration.On Saturday, Dec. 6 we hope everyone will join us at our annual Holiday Stroll. Held for

the first time in the Village ‘circle’, the event will include both indoor and outdoor festivities running throughout the day beginning at 9 a.m.

Co-hosted by the Elmwood Park Neighborhood Community Organization (EPNCO), the MontClare/Elmwood Park Kiwanis and Lions Clubs, the Grand Corridor Chamber of Commerce, and our local Boy Scouts – there will be something for residents of all ages to enjoy at this, our final, Centennial celebration of the year.

In addition to outdoor food truck concessions, families can have breakfast with Santa indoors at the Parks & Rec Center. A Holiday Crafts & Christmas Wreath Fair will be held throughout the day. Both indoor and outdoor activities are planned for kids including free train rides around ‘the circle’, an ice sculpture demonstration, a Candyland Obstacle course and more! At sunset, the day will end with the Village’s official Tree Lighting Ceremony.

I’m proud to say the celebration of our history over the past 12 months has not kept us from working toward the future. We have certainly done our share of that this year. The spirit in which we have celebrated mirrors the spirit I’ve seen from our village as we’ve made progress on so many fronts.

From our many capitol improvement projects to the growing number of commercial and residential developments now underway, we continue to make significant improvements to our community.

Accomplishments such as these are not easy. It takes more than a Village President and ‘crews in hardhats’ to get these projects up and running and completed. It takes dedication from Village Trustees and village staff, including careful stewardship of our tax dollars.

It takes creativity and commitment from our citizen-led boards and commissions and the generosity and goodwill of our civic and business leaders.

Last but not least, it takes great cooperation, positive attitudes and, yes, patience from our residents to turn plans into realities, ones that make long term and transformative impacts on our community’s future.

We have a lot to look forward to after the great progress we’ve made over the past year in Elmwood Park – a new Elmwood Park – YOUR New Elmwood Park!

As we enter into the holiday season, on behalf of the entire Village Board of Trustees, Village Clerk Gina Pesko and myself, I want to share our best wishes to all. You have made it possible to look forward to the New Year with optimism and excitement.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS ELMWOOD PARK!

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Centennial CelebrationDec. 6th “Holiday stroll”Marks the End of a Fabulous Centennial Year!Santa Claus will join Elmwood Park at its annual Holiday Stroll as the Village wraps up a tremendous year of Centennial celebrations!

The MontClare/Elmwood Park Kiwanis and Lions Clubs, the Elmwood Park Neighborhood Civic Organization (EPNCO), the Grand Corridor Chamber of Commerce, and our Local Boy Scout Troop 690 join the Village in hosting this year’s event held, for the first time, in ‘the circle’ on Conti Parkway. Both indoor and outdoor activities are planned beginning at 9 a.m.

Donations accepted at Holiday stroll!

Toy donations for “Toys for Tots” and food donations (no perishables please) for the Leyden Township and St. Celestine

Food Pantries will be accepted all day.

CentenniaL HOLiDay strOLL Date/Time: Saturday, Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Location: In the “Village Circle” on Conti Parkway

All day9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Arts, Crafts & Christmas Wreath Fair - local crafters’ holiday gifts and decorations• Holiday Wreaths and Hot Chocolate for Sale - Local Boy Scouts• Canned food collection - MontClare/Elmwood Park Kiwanis

9 a.m. to 1 p.m. • “Toys for Tots” Breakfast with Santa indoors at the Parks & Rec Center - free breakfast with the donation of an unwrapped toy valued at $10 or less – EPNCO

• Pictures with Santa ($3 per picture) and Face Painting - KiwanisNoon to 4 p.m. • Free train rides around ‘the circle’ for kids - Grand Corridor Chamber of Commerce and Ray’s Mini VideoNoon to 6 p.m. • Outdoor food truck concessions in ‘the circle’: Caponies, Gino’s Steaks Truck, Empanadas, Chicago

Cupcake, and the Kettle Kabin Nut Wagon (Other seasonal treats and beverages also available.)1 to 6 p.m. • Candyland Obstacle Course and Candy Cane Bounce House - Staffed by the Lions Club

• Kids Crafts from Happy Jacks1:30 to 4 p.m. • Ice Sculpture Demonstration3 to 6 p.m. • Santa Returns!5:30 p.m. • Village Tree Lighting Ceremony

elmwood park Celebrates its History in StyleCentennial Ball Receives Rave Reviews!On Nov. 8, in celebration of Elmwood Park’s 100th birthday, 450 attendees came dawned in high fashion to what will long be remembered as “the event of the century”, a spectacular “black tie” gala held at Elmcrest Banquets! The guest list included current and former residents, business and civic leaders and dignitaries.

Beginning with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and dinner, the evening’s festivities included live entertainment and dancing, and a special Centennial Presentation with speeches by numerous dignitaries.

Village President Angelo “Skip” Saviano spoke of the wonderful sense of community and camaraderie. “Our Village isn’t just a spot on a map, it’s also a place in each of our hearts,” said Savanio. “We know each other, we’ve experienced so much together and, together, we are moving forward to build upon the rich history and the bright future of Elmwood Park.”

Centennial Ball

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Emerald SponsorsBradley A. Stephens, CommiteemanChristopher B. Burke Engineering

Crowe HorwathGroot Industries Inc.Pan American Bank

Storino, Ramello & Durkin

Platinum SponsorsAngelo Skip Saviano, Village President

Arrow Body and Fender ServiceCommissioner Peter N. Silvestri

Elmcrest Banquets By BiancalanaElmwood Park School District 401

Mesirow FinancialMetro Paramedic Services Inc.

Village of Franklin Park

Gold Sponsors BW Landscaping

Bomark Cleaning ServiceCalumet City Plumbing

Cerniglia Co.Drs. DelMonico & Trocchio, Ltd

Village Auto and TowingWest Central Municipal Conference (WCMC)

Silver Sponsors Al Piemonte Ford

Belmont Funeral Home/Peterson Bassi ChapelsCaira Super Service

Circle InnConstituent Outreach Consultants

DiMeo Brothers, Inc.Elmwood Family Restaurant

First Merit BankIllinois Paper & Copier Company

New Star Restaurant

Contributors First Chicago Bank

Gary MackLarry’s Auto Parts

O’Leary’s Contractors EquipmentPanton Eye Center

Park Animal HospitalParkway Bank

St Celestine SchoolThird Millennium Associates

Trattoria Peppino

Centennial Sponsor list updated as of 12/01/14.

You might call it the race of the century! Nearly 200 participants on Oct. 19 came out for Elmwood Park’s Centennial “Tiger Tear” 5K Run/Walk.

Under sunny skies, racers took off from Elmwood Park High School and swept through the

neighborhood, circling back to finish at Tiger Stadium down the high school track to the finish line.

The top overall finisher was Tyler Starnes, 16, with a time of 21:03.1, racing in the Men’s 17 and Under Division. Mike Scheidt, 40, took first in the Men’s 18 and Over Division; Victoria Martin Del Campo, 17, took first in the Women’s 17 and Under Division; and Ashley

Shaw, 25, took first in the Women’s 18 and Over Division.

Money raised from the event will go toward the high school’s athletic programs, as well as to other non-sport related student programs.

Last, but not least, the Village would like to extend a big round

of applause to Pat McNulty, Eileen Lepore, and Kim Parrilli for the great job in organizing and overseeing the event!

Centennial Celebrationeverybody wins in Centennial “tiger tear” 5K

Thank YouTo Our Centennial Event Sponsors

Centennial Ball

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At Your Serviceimportant news from the public Works DepartmentNew parking restrictions to follow snowfallIn order to allow crews quicker access to Village streets whenever there is a snowfall of two inches or more, Elmwood Park has modified its winter parking restrictions.

“Our first priority during any snowstorm is to get the center lanes of residential streets plowed right away, which we’ll continue to do” says Public Works Director Dino Braglia.

“But, now with the adoption of new parking restrictions, once snowfall subsides and center lanes plowed, we will be able to begin curbside removal sooner, clearing residential streets of all snow within two business days rather than waiting until routine street maintenance days.”

Officials say residents should watch for notices from the Village and not hesitate to call when they are uncertain of the dates ‘no parking’ applies.

For information, call the Department of Public Works at (708) 452-3945.

no parking on Curbside snow removal DaysExcept for Harlem, Belmont, Grand and North Avenues, parking restrictions on curbside snow removal days apply to all Village streets. And, remember, on these days, ‘no parking’ restrictions take precedence over regular street cleaning maintenance schedules.The setting of a Curbside Snow Removal Date is triggered by a snowfall of two inches or greater.• The Village notifies residents via Blackboard Connect, which sends out automated

phone calls, emails and text alerts.• If residents are uncertain if a date has been set for Curbside Snow Removal, they

can also visit www.elmwoodpark.org or www.facebook.com/ElmwoodPark where notifications are posted, or call Public Works at 708-452-3945.

Dates set for Curbside Snow Removal determines which sides of streets must be vacated first.• If curbside snow removal is set to begin on an ODD-NUMBERED DATE (for

example, on Dec. 7, 9 or 11), no parking is allowed between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on the sides of all residential streets with homes having ODD-NUMBERED STREET ADDRESSES (East and South sides). The following day, no parking is allowed between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on the sides of the streets with homes having even-numbered street addresses (West and North sides).

• If curbside snow removal is set to begin on an EVEN-NUMBERED DATE (for example, on Dec. 8, 10 or 12), no parking is allowed between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on the sides of all residential streets with homes having EVEN-NUMBERED STREET ADDRESSES (West and North sides). The following day, no parking is allowed between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on the sides of streets with homes having odd-numbered street addresses (East and South sides). EXAMPLE: if the Village notifies residents Curbside Snow Removal will begin on December 3, no parking would be permitted on the odd-numbered side of streets. On December 4, vehicles would not be permitted to park on the even-numbered side of streets.

Failure to comply with parking restrictions on Curbside Snow Removal days.• In addition to cars being towed at the owner’s expense, a fine of $50 applies.

village adopts Fire sprinkler OrdinanceAt a recent Village Board meeting, Margaret Vaughn, representing the Illinois Chapter of the National Fire Sprinkler Association, the Illinois Firefighters Association and the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance,

commended Village President Angelo “Skip” Saviano and the members of the Village Board for adopting a fire sprinkler ordinance for new construction.

“We know sprinkler codes like the Village has now adopted are proven to greatly reduce the loss of life and property to fire,” said Fire Chief Michael Ventura.

The Village Board amended the Elmwood Park building code to require the installation of an automatic sprinkler system in all new construction of single-family and attached two-family residences.

Holiday House Decorating ContestA Village Tradition!Their baaaaaaaaaack! Elmwood Park’s most serious holiday decorators have already begun the tedious task of untangling their many strings of holiday lights—organizing their large inventory of ornaments—and talking with their neighbors about what they might do to win this year’s Holiday House Decorating Contest’s “Best Decorated Block” award!

Each year, homes and businesses – and entire blocks – are adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, tinseled wreaths, silvery snowflakes, and all forms of holiday cheer helping to transform Elmwood Park into a winter wonderland!

As in years past, the Village is sponsoring a community-wide Holiday House Decorating Contest. In January, following the close of the holiday season, winners will be selected from two categories: Individual Residential Winners and Block Winners.

Appreciation and thanks to all who plan to participate in the contest. The Village also extends thanks to the local businesses who have agreed to donate gift certificates to contest winners.

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News

Holiday Fire preventionChristmas Trees, Holiday Lights & Candles …and, remember, limit the use of extension cords!Whether your holiday traditions include the burning of candles – bringing home a fresh or artificial Christmas tree to decorate – or dawning your home and property with holiday lights, Elmwood Park fire officials urge residents to be vigilant in taking fire prevention precautions!• Christmas Trees – Keep fresh Christmas trees moist! Keep trees watered; dried out, pine needles

present a very serious fire hazard and could be totally consumed by fire in less than 30 seconds. For residents with artificial trees, be sure they are certified by the manufacturer as “fire retardant”.

• Holiday Lights – When going to bed or leaving your home even for a short time, always turn off holiday lights on trees and other decorations inside and outside of your home.

• Candles – Keep candles a safe distance from flammable materials such as wrapping paper and always keep candles out of the reach of small children. As with electrical holiday decorations, when going to bed or leaving your home even for a short time, extinguish all burning candles. The use of artificial, battery-operated candles is a safe alternative.

• Extension Cords. Extension cords are a leading cause of electrical fires, and can cause injury and death if used improperly. Make sure extension cords are certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as UL, CSA, or ETL and meet or exceed the power needs of the appliance or tool being used. Do not run extension cords through walls or ceilings, and do not nail or staple electrical cords to walls or baseboards, and most importantly, remember, they are NOT meant for long-term use!

For additional Winter/Holiday fire prevention tips, visit www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/

the Fire Wire …news from your local firefighters

Certified Cpr trainingRegister Today for Jan. 17th ClassResidents are invited to attend the Elmwood Park Fire Department’s Certified CPR trainings offered on a bi-monthly basis. Firefighters who conduct classes are all American Heart Association Certified Instructors. Upon completion, participants receive AHA-certification valid for two years.Date/Time: Thursday, Jan. 17 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.Location: Elmwood Park Public Safety Building 7420 W. Fullerton Ave. (Lower Level)Cost: FREE to residents and Village personnel $50.00 for non-residentsRegistration: Call 708-453-2600Registration forms can be downloaded at www.elmwoodpark.org.

2015 vehicle stickersAvailable online NOW!Vehicle stickers for 2015 are now on sale both online and in person. Those who wish to pay online can visit the online portal via the Village’s website at www.elmwoodpark.org.

(The ‘purchase online’ system may only be used by residents who are renewing stickers.) Residents who wish to buy their stickers in person should

bring their pre-printed forms to Village Hall, 11 Conti Parkway during normal business hours.

The cost for registering a passenger car is $30. Seniors (65 and older) pay only $5 if they buy the sticker before Jan. 31, 2015. Vehicle stickers must be purchased and applied to the inner lower passenger-side of the front windshield by Jan. 31 to avoid late fees and citations.

For information, please call 708-452-7300.

new Bocce Ball League a big success at Centennial parkDuring Elmwood Park’s Centennial year, Centennial Park was the place to be for local bocce ball players! The new league was popular from the start, including the number of spectators and the camaraderie grew throughout the summer and fall seasons.

“It’s been a lot of fun seeing how popular the league has become,” said Village President Angelo “Skip” Saviano. “This is the kind of community spirit we’ve seen in our Village all year long. We’re glad it’s going to carry over to 2015.”

The summer season bocce champions were a group of Boy Scout leaders called “Khaki Thunder.” Team members included Rick Hibbert, Ray Kalwajtys, Jay Shipinski, Bart Smith and Bill Howard. The fall season was won by a team known as “MMMM.” That team included Tony Menaloscino, Sal Manzo, Steve Messina, Steve Messina, Jr., and Sam Messina.

For information on the 2015 Bocce Ball League, call the Elmwood Park Recreation Center at 708-452-3935.

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Free!! senior snow removal programFollowing a snowfall of 6 inches or more: Elmwood Park seniors (65 and older) and residents with disabilities or special needs have free snow removal services available at no charge. Snow is shoveled from their front steps and to clear a path from the home to the street free of charge. Snow shoveling begins 12 to 24 hours following the end of the snow fall.Snowfall less than 6 inches: Seniors can obtain a list from the Village with names of Elmwood Park High School students available to shovel snow following a snowfall resulting in less than six inches. For example, starting price for snowfall 3 inches or less is $10.00 which includes sidewalks around the house and stairs; corner lots start at $15.00. Driveways and garages are not included; however, cost for additional work is negotiable.

Call the Village at 708-452-7300 or Senior Coordinator Tina Gordon at 708-261-1154 for more information.

Let Dial-a-ride pick you up…and drive you to your destination!Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. All you need is 24 hours in advance to schedule your FREE, door-to-door transportation to many local destinations! Call 708-452-7300.

senior advocate servicesFor help obtaining information and resources such as available social services, local opportunities for fitness, volunteerism,education and recreational activities, contact Laura Bilben, Elmwood Park’s Senior Advocate!Call: 708-359-0143, Monday thru Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Email: senioradvocate@elmwoodpark.orgDrop-in: Mondays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., LaFrambois Center (Village Hall)*In the case of emergencies, residents should call 9-1-1.

Mark your Calendars!• March 9, 2015 (Monday) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the

Parks & Rec Center 2015 Super Senior Event…brought to you by the Illinois Secretary of State’s Mobile Drivers Services

• March 10, 2015 (Tuesday) from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the La Framboise Center, Village Hall (dinner included) Seniors Presentation: Making Sense of Memory Loss – and – Navigating through Senior Housing

“On-the-road-again…” trips & excursionsSeniors are welcome to invite (adult) friends and family members, including those who don’t reside in Elmwood Park, to join them on trips and excursions hosted by Elmwood Parks Seniors Services. Call Seniors Coordinator Tina Gordon at 708-452-3962 or email Tina at cgordon@elmwoodpark.org for more information and to make your reservations today! Please note, trip return times are estimated.

JAN 20, Tuesday (Day Trip) Grand Victoria Casino - Elgin

Gaming at the Grand Victoria; lunch buffet included. Departure/Return Times: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: $23.00 per person

FEB 19, Thursday (Day Trip)Horseshoe Casino Gaming & Lunch - Hammond, IN

Departure/Return Times: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: $25.00 per person

MARCH 14, Saturday (Day Trip) “The Rat Pack” at Rosemont Theater

Dinner and evening performance, details coming soon!

MARCH 18-20, Wednesday to Friday (3 Days/2 Nights)Island Resort Casino - Harris, MI

Meal discounts and more!Departure/Return Times: 8 a.m. returning Friday at 7:15 p.m. Single Occupancy: $205 per person (1 guest per room) Double Occupancy: $150 per person (2 guests per room) Triple Occupancy: $132 per person (3 guests per room) (*Cost based on 36 passengers.)

trips coming in april and May of 2015April 15, 2015 - Blue Chip CasinoApril 29, 2015 - South Side Chicago Historical & Sightseeing TourMay 21, 2015 - Matinee of Cole Porter’s “Anything Goes” at the Marriott Theatre.

elmwood park Hosts trip to italy!Oct. 4 through Oct. 15, 2015Did you know Elmwood Park is planning a trip to Italy in October, 2015 for Village Seniors? Adult residents of all ages are also welcome! For information, including itinerary and cost, call Senior Coordinator Tina Gordon at 708-452-3962.

Seniors

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Library News... brought to you by the Elmwood Park Public Library

Consumer Reports.orgVisit the Research/Learning section of our website and get access to Consumer Reports.org.

There you can find unbiased product and service ratings

and recommendations, selections from the latest issue, a searchable archive of the past four years of ratings, exclusive product- and car-reliability reports, comprehensive decision guides, access to consumer/user reviews, and much more.

Stop by the Adult Services Desk and we’ll help you get started finding the information you need!

Holiday Gift Ideas & Bests of 2014It’s the end of the year and time for all the “Best of 2014” lists and holiday shopping!

Check out our display in the Adult Services Department in December & January to get some gift ideas for that history buff, mystery lover, or comedian in your life. Or just look for

things to add to your own list!We’ll also be highlighting some of the bests of 2014 so

you can see what you’ve caught and what you’ve missed this year!

Program HighlightsClick the Online Calendar link under Programs/Events on our website or pick up a paper newsletter at the Library for the scoop on our programs through February. Upcoming highlights include:

– Young Adult Council’s Hot Chocolate & Caroling for Charity (Dec. 19)

– Frozen Sing-along (Dec. 29) – Trivia Night at Baciami (Dec. 30 & Jan. 27) – Bring Your Device Ebook Help (Jan. 7, 12 & 27)

Staff Book Pick of the MonthThis month’s pick, “The Martian” by Andy Weir, is from IT Librarian Ahren.Story: After becoming one of the first people to walk on Mars, astronaut Mark Watney gets left behind and must figure out how to survive and communicate with Earth. Opinion: This book was a delight. Well researched, intelligent and devilishly funny. You would normally think a story like this would just be one huge bummer after another, but Weir manages to balance the main character’s dire situation and unbelievable bad/good luck with a wry wit and an endearing pluckiness.

Final Exam Studying at the LibraryFinals are coming! Do you have a place to study? Grab your books and notes and hunker down to get some quality studying in!

The Ferrentino Meeting Room at theLibrary will be a dedicated group study room open to students in Grades 9-12 from 4:00-10:00 p.m. on December 16, 17 and 18. We’ll provide the snacks!

Chicago Wolves Winter Reading Kids in Grades K-8 are welcome to join us from January 2 – February 28 for our Winter Reading Program, sponsored by the Chicago Wolves Hockey Team.

Sign up at the Library and read three books in January and three books in February and be entered to win awesome Chicago Wolves prizes!

Holiday Gift for YouDo you have lingering Library fines? If you stop by the Library anytime on December 17, we will have a possible gift for you! Spin our wheel of fortune for a chance to get up to $19.14 (in honor of the Centennial) taken off of your account when you pay your fines in full.

Letters to SantaWant to tell Santa your holiday wishes? We’ll help! Drop off your letter to Santa at the Youth Services Desk by December 19, making sure you include your full name and address, and we’ll make sure the big guy

sends you a letter in return!(Sponsored by the Library’s Young Adult Council)

New Catalog Coming Spring of 2015Members who enjoy using the library catalog to find and order books will have a lot more to like, starting this spring. Elmwood Park Public Library, in connection with other public libraries in the SWAN library consortium, will switch over to a new software system in April 2015. The catalog will be easier to search and will offer many new features to enhance your library experience. Our newsletter and other member communications will provide more details as they become available. Using your library is about to get even better.

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Elmwood Park Public Library 1 Conti Parkway • 708-453-7645

www.elmwoodparklibrary.org Library Hours: Mon.–Thurs.: 9–9 • Fri.: 9–6 • Sat.: 9–5 • Sun.: 1–5

Angelo J. Lollino

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

paiDCHICAGO, IL

PERMIT NO. 1

Village of Elmwood Park11 Conti ParkwayElmwood Park, IL 60707

ECRWSSLocalPostal Customer

Visit www.elmwoodpark.org for current news and events and where all kinds of great resources can be found, including numerous ways residents can “keep in touch” through Facebook and Twitter! Or email the village with questions or concerns at village@elmwoodpark.org.

Village Hall: Phone 708.452.7300 Fax: 708.452.3957Police Dept.: Phone 708.453.2137 Emergency: 911Fire Dept.: Phone 708.453.2600 Emergency: 911

Trustee in the Hall Program Call 708.452.7300 to schedule an appointment with a Village Trustee; or 708.452.3922 to schedule a meeting with Village President Angelo “Skip” Saviano.

Go to www.elmwoodpark.org and click on the icon to watch Village Meetings LIVE!

iPhone App available now! Visit the App Store, search for “Village of Elmwood” and keep in touch!

Sign up for Blackboard Connect Register your contact info to receive important Village Notices elmwoodpark.org.

Trustee Corner…how well do you know YOUR Village officials?

Angela Stranges Jeff Sargent Anthony Del SantoJonathan L. Zivojnovic

While we have been celebrating the history of our Village in this, our Centennial year, it’s important to note that we continue to make progress for the future.

The Metra Drop Off/Pick-Up Center along Grand Avenue is complete and has been getting great reviews. The Center makes it easier for commuters to access public transportation and helped beautify Grand Avenue.

Our Flood Mitigation Project continues to move forward with commencement of the third and final phase of the project which focuses on the Westwood Section on the north end of Elmwood Park.

With the fall construction season we also saw great progress on the Village’s Street Improvement Program. Going forward, as weather permits, work will continue on this project, the largest street improvement program the Village has ever undertaken at one time. When completed, approximately 10 miles (84 blocks) of streets will

be repaved, roughly 10 times the amount of resurfacing done in a typical year.

The Village was recently awarded a $300,000 grant from the State of Illinois to purchase property at the northeast corner of 76th Avenue and Grand Avenue so that it can raze the building and attract favorable business development to the site. The Village Board approved the purchase of the building on Nov. 3.

Last, but not least, we continue our efforts to bring attention to the need for building a new rail underpass on Grand Avenue. These efforts include our recent funding application request submitted to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s TIGER Discretionary Grant Program. The application was supported with letters from Congressman Mike Quigley (D-5th) and Governor Pat Quinn.

Together we are building a modern village – congratulations Elmwood Park!

This edition of the Village newsletter highlights Deputy Mayor and Village Trustee Alan T. Kaminski. In addition to serving as Deputy Mayor, Trustee Kaminski currently serves as Chairman of the Rules and Ordinance Committee, Commerce, and Public Safety and Health committees. He also serves as liaison to the O’Hare Noise Compatibility Commission. A trustee since 1991, he is a former board member for School District 401.

Alan T. Kaminski