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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2011
Young West Chicago Resident Experiences the Joy of Giving
 A recent donation to the Toys for Tots program caught the attention of Mike Rosenwinkel, an officer with the West Chicago Police Department. Resident Chris Sowers and his son, Tyler, were waiting in the lobby of the Police Station with an armful of toys.
Chris explained that Tyler had recently celebrated his sixth birthday. In keeping with a family tradition that began with his older siblings, guests that attended his birthday party were told, in advance, that their gifts would be donated to a particular charity. Tyler's choice was to donate toys to the Toys for Tots program.
Young Tyler is learning at an early age that "it is better to give than to receive." Officer Rosenwinkel said, "I was fortunate to experience this event during my shift. I think this selfless act made by one of our smaller citizens should not go unnoticed during this holiday season."
On behalf of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, the West Chicago Police Department has collected new, unwrapped toys for the Toys for Tots program. The program attempts to send a message of hope to children in the community who are less fortunate, a message that will help them become more responsible and productive as they grow up. This message of hope comes in the form of a new toy at Christmas time.
Additional ways to donate to the program include donating money online or by mail, donating a vehicle, donating proceeds from online auctions and more. For further information, please visit www.toysfortots.org.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2011
Joshua Michael Kerber - West Chicago Hometown Hero
 The following speech was delivered by West Chicago Police Chief Laz Perez at Remembering 9/11: A West Chicago Observance to honor Joshua Michael Kerber, a true American hero.
It is my honor to present the first West Chicago Hometown Hero Award to Joshua Michael Kerber.
Josh was born and raised in West Chicago. His lifelong dream was to become a soldier in the United States Army. He fulfilled his dream on January 3, 2008 when he joined the Army and reported to Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri.
Following basic and specialized training, Josh was assigned to the 16th Combat Brigade, 118th Military Police Company. On May 22, 2009 Josh deployed to the Logar Province in Afghanistan, where he was attached to the 82nd Airborne Division and the 10th Mountain Division as an MP.
On October 4, 2009 during a night time security operation, Josh's convoy came under heavy enemy fire. Josh was the gunner on the lead vehicle, which took the most fire. Josh's machinegun turret took two direct hits from rocket propelled grenades. The first grenade wounded Josh, who kept on firing on the enemy position. The second grenade incapacitated Josh.
Because of his bravery under fire, Josh was credited by the company commander with saving the lives of countless fellow soldiers.
As the result of the wounds he sustained, Josh lost his left arm. He underwent three major surgeries and four months of rehabilitation before he was able to return home. Josh received his medical discharge from the Army on August 22, 2011.
In his short three year career with the United States Army, Josh received numerous commendations and medals, including:
1. The Afghanistan Campaign Medal w/ Star
2. Two Army Commendation Medals
3. The Purple Heart Medal
4. The Army Good Conduct Medal
5. The Global War on Terrorism Medal
6. The National Defense Medal
7. The Army Service Ribbon
8. The NATO Medal
9. The Army Service Medal
10. Parachutist Badge
11. The Combat Action Medal.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2011
Volunteer Spirits
 Oakwood Cemetery
is truly one of our
most studied local
historical sites. Over
the last several years two
volunteers, Cheryl Waterman
and Dennis Schuett,
have surveyed the graveyard.
What they have found has been documented on
the website Find a Grave (www.findagrave.com).
They have spent hundreds of hours walking the
cemetery, recording grave sites and tombstone inscriptions
for the 1,471 known interments at Oakwood
Cemetery. Photographs taken of each tombstone provide
a valuable record as erosion renders the stones
less readable each year. Obituaries and historic
portraits of the deceased, if available, are included
as well. Relation of the deceased to others in the
cemetery (sister, wife, etc.) is noted.
It is random acts of genealogical kindness such
as those performed by Waterman and Schuett that
we recognize and salute for their preservation of
West Chicago's historical record.
MONDAY, AUGUST 8, 2011
Renaming of Bridge is Fitting Tribute to
Former West Chicago Mayor A. Eugene Rennels
In keeping with the tradition of naming a community landmark in honor of a notable leader, West Chicago's City Council voted unanimously at the July 5, 2011 meeting to change the name of the Wilson Street Bridge to the A. Eugene Rennels Bridge in tribute to the City's longest serving Mayor (1977-1989) who was the guiding force behind the construction of the bridge in the early 1980s.
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| Former Mayor A. Eugene Rennels seated at Sesquicentennial Park in front of the bridge renamed in his honor. |
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| New signage identifies the A. Eugene Rennels Bridge, named after West Chicago's longest serving Mayor (pictured), who was the guiding force in its construction. |
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A visionary leader, Mayor Rennels recognized the need to improve the structure of the original bridge which had been built by the Chicago & Northwestern Railway in 1911 out of used parts from a dismantled bridge. His desire to replace it due to its age and structural weakness and his concern for public safety, was not popular with many in the community. Many felt that destroying it was destroying a piece of the community's history.
However, Mayor Rennels, together with the City Council, was so convinced in his belief that the bridge was unsafe, he called in a structural engineer to evaluate its integrity. His fears were justified, the bridge was deemed unsafe for traffic. "I remember feeling strongly that I would rather lose a little history than some kid's life going across that shaky bridge on a bicycle," Mayor Rennels said recently reflecting on his memory of the events.
Initially, the City received no cooperation from the Chicago & North Western railroad for the bridge's replacement, so Mayor Rennels closed the bridge in 1979. He subsequently began negotiations with the railroad which resulted in partial funding for the construction costs of a new bridge, and secured the balance of the funding from the state and federal government making construction a reality.
"I am very honored to have this bridge named after me," said Mayor Rennels. "I feel humbled, yet proud of the accomplishment it represents".
A long list of other notable accomplishments can be credited to Mayor Rennels' tenure including his work with a developer on an intergovernmental agreement which solved a flooding problem and led to the creation of a viable industrial park, the formation of a committee to create a unique design for the City's Metra station, and his work with state and federal legislators when thorium became an issue for West Chicago. According to current Mayor Mike Kwasman, "Former Mayor Rennels started the war against storing thorium in West Chicago. He went to Washington, D.C. and gathered the troops to start the battle."
Additionally, the purchase of the West Chicago Prairie and the land and building for the current Police Department, and his work to acquire the 1912 Chicago & Northwestern depot which was later converted into a community center, are part of his ongoing legacy of service. After 38 years of public service, Mayor Rennels remains active with the West Chicago Fire Protection District Board of Trustees and the American Legion Post 300.
"Renaming this bridge the A. Eugene Rennels Bridge is an appropriate tribute to a man who loves this City so much he stood up for it time and time again in the course of his twelve years in office, and who is still involved today," said West Chicago's current Mayor Mike Kwasman.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 2011
Two Community High School Students
Raising the Bar for West Chicago
This article is thanks to Community School District 94
The faculty and administration of Community High School would like to congratulate Danielle Keller, of West Chicago, for being chosen Student-of-the-Month for April.
As a student at Community High School, Danielle has received numerous accolades. In the last four years she has been named an Illinois State Scholar and has received recognition for Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics. Danielle has been inducted into the National Honor Society and the Spanish National Honor Society. In addition to these academic awards, Danielle's teachers are quick to point out that many of her greatest strengths reside in her ability to teach and learn with her fellow students. One teacher notes, "Danielle is a very conscientious student who always wants to do well. She has high standards for herself as a student and a person." Another teacher adds, "She is respectful of and helpful to others, she is quick to catch humor and smile; I have truly enjoyed having her in class." Another summed up Danielle succinctly, "Dani is hardworking, intelligent, and helpful."
In addition to her classroom accomplishments, Danielle has more than distinguished herself as part of the WeGo community. She has been a member of Symphonic and Marching Band all four years of her high school career, and has participated in Drama all four years as well. For the last three years Danielle has been a member of the Thespian's Club and has been in the Orchestra for the last two years. Danielle even made a contribution on the tennis team during her sophomore year.
Moreover, Danielle is a positive influence in our community. In addition to working diligently on her academics and on stage at CHS, Danielle volunteers in the community. She can be found working at the People's Resource Center, a food pantry in Wheaton, as well as reading with kids at the Glen Ellyn Children's Resource Center.
Danielle provides this advice for future CHS students, "Get to know your teachers; they can be great resources and valuable friends." Danielle plans to attend The University of Wisconsin at Madison where she will continue to study Spanish and hopes to work her way into the field of Bilingual Education.
The administration, faculty, and staff at Community High School congratulate Danielle on all of her accomplishments and wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors.
The faculty and administration of Community High School would like to congratulate Joseph Wais, of Winfield, for being selected Student of the Month for May.
As a student at Community High School, Joe has been recognized for his accomplishments numerous times. Over his four years he has been acknowledged as a member of the National Honors Society, the Spanish National Honors Society as well as an Illinois State Scholar. These distinctions come from a natural scholastic ability and a desire to contribute to the academic and artistic community. Joe's teachers will tell you that "he has a great work ethic and he looks for opportunities to help others in class." Joe "has great leadership qualities, is immensely talented, and is helpful with anything that I need done." Finally, Joe's Spanish teacher praised him and noted "he is the only one who knows all the words to the songs that I sing in class."
In addition to his classroom achievements, Joe has more than distinguished himself in both the arts and extra curricular activities at CHS. Joe has been a member of the band, the marching band and orchestra all four years of high school. His leadership in these areas was rewarded when he was named drum major of the marching band when he was a sophomore. Joe has also been part of the jazz combo for two years and the pit orchestra for three years. While maintaining all of these commitments, Joe still finds time to volunteer at Wegner Elementary School and the Winfield Park District.
Joe provides this advice to future CHS students, "Study hard, but never get too stressed out. Always make sure you are having fun!" He plans to take his own advice when he attends Elmhurst College in the fall. He will pursue a degree in music education with a minor in Spanish.
Community High School congratulates Joe on all of his accomplishments and wishes him the best of luck in his future endeavors.
MONDAY, MAY 2, 2011
West Chicago Garden Club
Spring is here and West Chicago is blooming. The forces of Mother Nature have rewarded us yet again by transforming the canvas
of a dormant landscape into its miraculous work of art. The Art of the Garden is the theme for this year's Blooming Fest, an 11-year old
downtown garden festival inspired by the West Chicago Garden Club's (WCGC) annual plant sale fundraiser which began in 1998.
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| Members of the WCGC bid on gazing bowling balls at one of the regularly scheduled meetings. |
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| A storage shed at Kress Creek Farms houses the hundreds of pots used in the WCGC's annual plant sale. |
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| Two active members of the WCGC tend the public garden at the Kruse House Museum. |
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The group of dedicated gardeners that make up the WCGC has indeed served the community as another force of good nature. They have contributed
to the splendor of neighborhood gardens throughout the City through the sale of reasonably priced plants that come straight from member gardens.
Fully adapted to the growing conditions of our local soil and climate, these vigorous plants accelerate gratification by leaping in their first year. Avid
gardeners everywhere have come to learn the extreme benefit of buying well-established plants and shrubs that hale from West Chicago soil.
Preparations for the sale that offers thousands of plants including perennials, annuals and shrubs, are extensive. A
WCGC digging squad begins the process by digging and bagging plant specimens during the week for weekend
potting parties at a barn in Kress Creek Farms, donated for such use by the West Chicago Park District. Volunteers form
an assembly line which consists of paper stuffers to line pots, cutters to saw
plants into pot size pieces, potters to mix dirt, pot plants and pass off to
transporters who organize the pots by species and water them. Others strip
and cut venetian blinds which are used as potting sticks to identify each
plant. The labor intensive process yields about 600 plants per session.
The annual plant sale is a labor of love for the WCGC, but there is much
more that the group would like to share. From an historical perspective,
WCGC has cultivated community for more than 60 years and has played an
active role in beautifying public and private gardens in West Chicago and in enriching the social landscape
through fellowship. Since taking root in the community in 1925 as an offshoot of the West Chicago
Woman's Club, the group has combined its love of gardening with community-minded service projects.
Early in its history, member gardeners spread hope and cheer to the poor and ill by distributing bouquets
of fresh cut flowers, and by maintaining a library for fellow gardeners. Today that spirit continues.
From novice to master gardeners, the inclusive membership base welcomes the fellowship of
garden-lovers from many neighboring communities, making it one of the largest and most active
garden clubs in the western suburbs. Monthly meetings on the fourth Thursday of each month at Faith
Community Church, 910 Main Street, provide both a social outlet, as well as a formal and informal
education through a lecture series and a sharing table which is regularly stocked with members' ideas,
magazines, plants or tools. Meetings are open to the public and drop-ins are welcome.
Visit www.westchicagogardenclub.org for more information.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2011
Carol Williams
West Chicago resident and registered nurse Carol Williams is one of more than 250 West Chicagoans employed either full or part-time at Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield.
She has been at the cutting-edge of her profession since the early 90s when she began her career as a liaison between the IT department and the nursing staff. Her work with the hospital's computer systems during these years contributed greatly to staff efficiencies, patient documentation, and decision support.
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| Carol Williams (at left) works with fellow Epic team member. |
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Williams has seen tremendous advances in the computer applications that impact the quality of patient care, like the bar-code system used for dispensing medications, and has kept pace through training and hands-on learning. She recently earned a certification in informatics nursing after successfully completing the nationally recognized exam. "It's a great feeling to receive the validation conferred by this credential." she said. "As a nurse, I get so much pleasure making a difference in a patient's day."
Today, certified informatics nurses routinely support staff in using automated applications in their daily assignments. They play an important interdisciplinary role that combines their passion for nursing with their love of technology. They bring a nursing perspective into the evaluation of innovative systems to achieve positive patient outcomes.
Carol and her husband Kent were drawn to West Chicago back in 1972 by the country atmosphere her wooded neighborhood provides. They raised two sons who attended Turner School and graduated from West Chicago Community High School. Living only four miles door-to-door from her home to a hospital system which has been named as a "100 Top Hospital in the U.S." by Thomson Reuters for the last four consecutive years, has benefited her practically as well as professionally. "When my children were young, it was great to be employed so close to home. We love our community of West Chicago, and I'm proud to also be a part of the community that is Central DuPage Hospital."
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 5, 2011
Judith Horsley & the UMCW
Honoring a mission of service that began with the group’s charter in 1880, the United Methodist and Congregational Women (UMCW) of West Chicago, led by current President Judith Horsley, has been a quiet yet powerful force for good in the community at home and around the world.
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| UMCW President Judith Horsley (far left in bottom row) joins other members of this active service ministry in having their photo taken to send to their "adopted children". |
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Recently, Horsley took time out of a packed schedule which included serving the annual holiday lunch for the West Chicago Lions Club, assisting the less fortunate who find food and shelter at the First United Methodist Church every Thursday night from October through May through DuPage PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter), and making visits to the DuPage County Convalescent Center to offer friendship and cheer to residents, to talk about the group and its tradition of service.
She, along with the 31 other active members who represent a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and religious affiliations, meet monthly at the Church located at 643 East Washington Street to share creative and supportive fellowship and plan their schedule of charitable acts. "We're just a group of women who enjoy helping people, and who have a lot of fun doing it," said Horsley. That is an understatement when compared to the impressive list of charitable organizations the UMCW supported this year through vigorous fundraising events that included Lenten calendar and pecan pie bake sale, an annual rummage sale, an annual bazaar and luncheon, and more.
The group was responsible for donating over 200 items, including hats, mittens and gloves, to needy students from West Chicago School District 33 and adopting a family for Christmas through Winfield Township. Hand-made pillows are crafted and delivered on a regular basis to breast cancer patients at Central DuPage Hospital. "There is such a need in this area, we can't make them fast enough," said Horsley.
Their reach extends further to regional organizations like Lifespring in Aurora, which assists abused women and children in transition; and global ministries that sponsor two children each year from Haiti and South America through Compassion International. "The children we sponsor write to ask us for a photo of ourselves so they can feel connected to those of us on the other side of the world that care for them. That 'compassion communication' is an important part of the support we provide."
Horsley stresses the inclusive nature of the group that welcomes members from all backgrounds, walks of life and surrounding communities. Anyone interested in joining may contact Horsley through the church secretary by calling 630-231-3344.
"The rewards are boundless," she said, "you end up feeling so good about what you are doing to serve others it becomes something of a guilty pleasure."
Editors Note: This well deserved recognition for the efforts of the United Methodist and Congregational Women of West Chicago, who are raising the bar for our community, coincides with a milestone for the First United Methodist Church of West Chicago that celebrated its 175th Anniversary this past September. Congratulations!
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2010
West Chicago Couple Brightens the Holiday for Neighbors Less Fortunate
 It started with a conversation about being called upon to feed the hungry that prompted Charmaine and Liam Kellstedt to put their beliefs into action. The West Chicago couple who are neighbors of the Main Street Apartment complex knew of the needs that existed through Neighborhood Resource Coordinator Lulu Holguin.
"The couple contacted me to identify families in need at this time of year two years ago," said Holguin, "and now it has become something of a tradition for them to do so."
The Kellstedt's, who collect donations from others in their cul de sac, purchase gift certificates for food at a local Mexican supermarket, knock at the doors of the needy and present them with an accompanying message of the season, Feliz Navidad. This year, $700 was raised, which bought gift certificates for eight families.
Last year, their 10-year old granddaughter, a student in West Chicago's dual language program at Gary School, accompanied Liam and helped him distribute the gifts. He admits it was a teachable moment, not only in language but humility as well. "Sharing our blessings with others is a good message to pass on to our children. It's a humbling experience."
The Kellstadt's hope to inspire other cul de sacs and neighborhoods in the community to join their efforts and organize similar food drives. "I am amazed at the generous reception of people to help," Liam said. "We will continue to do so for as long as we can."
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2010
Home-Grown Spruce Tree to Become Centerpiece for West Chicago's Frosty Fest
 Move over New York and Chicago, West Chicago will be the recipient of its own home-grown holiday tree which will become the center-piece for the community's seasonal celebration, Frosty Fest.
Kramer Tree Specialists, in West Chicago since 1985, will remove a spruce tree measuring nearly 35' from the front yard of lifelong resident Jean Day on Wednesday. Kramer will then transport, erect and fully decorate the tree (approximately 20' due to space constraints) at the Fox Community Center on Main Street as a gift to the residents of West Chicago. "We are happy to make this donation to the community," said Joe Kramer. "It will be very special."
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| From left to right: Rick Thomas, Director of Operations; Joe Kramer, President; Jean Day, homeowner; Jeff Kramer, Business Development Director; and Todd Kramer, Director of Field Operations |
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The tree, which according to Jean started out small and scrawny, was originally located on a lot owned by her and her husband Mike in 1974, and was moved two times before ending up in its permanent location at the family home on National Street. It grew in height and width over the years, until finally causing issues because of the size of the root system and its proximity to the house. It needed to come down, but at a dear cost, both practically and sentimentally.
"I thought about submitting it to the newspaper for consideration as the Daley Plaza holiday tree in Chicago," said Jean. "But, then I thought, 'hey, with my history, its better here.'" That history includes a brother, Willis (Chic) Gladding who was West Chicago mayor from 1957- 1961, and her beloved husband Royal, known to everyone as Mike, who owned Day's 66 Service Station on East Washington Street and who was named Citizen of the Year in 1969. The couple was married for 32 years before Mike passed away at age 59. He was eulogized for, among other things, his service and concern for others and his resilience during the rough economic times in the years of World War II when gasoline was rationed and tires and batteries in short supply.
 The tree donation has turned into a time of reminiscence for Jean. The 89-year old lifelong resident took obvious pride and pleasure leafing through a scrapbook which contained memorabilia documenting the birth of her two sons, Skip and John, also current West Chicago residents, and her four great-grandchildren, one of whom is named Royal in honor of her "Mike". "I don't know where the past trees have come from for the community celebration, but this one is home-made," said Jean.
An official tree lighting ceremony will be held on Saturday, December 4, 2010 at the Fox Community Center, located at 306 Main Street in downtown West Chicago. It will immediately follow the Frosty Fest procession at approximately 4:30 p.m. A full schedule of Frosty Fest activities and entertainment may be found here (PDF - 710k).
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2010
Local Family Calls West Chicago Home for Many Generations - Dieters' House Featured in The Country Sampler
 Sue and Al Dieters are accustomed to people dropping by their home on East Washington Street as they pass on foot or in the car, to comment on how quaint the one bedroom bungalow is from the street view. Recently, the home also caught the attention of a national magazine, The Country Sampler, which featured it in a four page spread in their September issue - proof once again that West Chicago is a haven of hidden treasures.
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| The Dieters' one bedroom bungalow is filled with antiques and collectibles and is the subject of a four-page feature in the September issue of The Country Sampler. |
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Enter its front door via the lovely porch and visitors will find classic country charm. Sue, who enjoys decorating and admits to being "really good with a glue gun", started collecting antiques as a young woman out of necessity. Since then, her ability to spot an item in a resale shop or estate sale is second to none and her skills in accessorizing her finds both inside and outside of the 1,000 square-foot house is worthy of the attention she is receiving. For the Dieters' family, who has remained in West Chicago for many generations, the recognition has provided an opportunity to contemplate on the quality of life it has enjoyed and confirmed what may be the bigger story - West Chicago is one of those communities you just don't want to leave.
"My father and grandfather both were employed by the EJ & E Railway. I appreciate the railroads," said Sue. She and her husband raised two children and were very active in the high school athletic associations. "The schools are so diversified that my children were ready to go out in the world. I am so proud of that." Even still, both children returned from college and put down their own roots in West Chicago. "It's got everything here for them."
FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2010
Five Dynamic Women Behind West Chicago's
Mexican Independence Day Parade and Celebration
Cultivating the celebrated ethnic diversity of their community, five dynamic women, Pastor Maria Ramirez, Sara Phalen, Valeria Perez, Anna Rosalez and Jackie Ocampo-Gutierrez are the guiding forces of the West Chicago Mexican Independence Day Parade and Celebration which is scheduled for Sunday, September 12, 2010. Between them, they bring pride and passion for what is a significant thread in the rich tapestry that is West Chicago's history and heritage, and a desire to instill that spirit in the younger generation.
Their leadership roles on the event's planning committee and in the community through their various organizations (Out of Exile Ministries, People Made Visible, City of West Chicago, West Chicago Park District and Supermercado Tampico), have given them an opportunity to impact the culture and unity that is distinctly West Chicago.
Mayor Mike Kwasman has been a key supporter of their efforts, and his enthusiasm and encouragement has been unwavering. "This event is an important validation of cultural identity for our young people of Mexican descent. It serves to instill and reinforce pride in their cultural roots, while allowing the entire community to celebrate the diversity that makes West Chicago such a tremendous place in which to live and work," he said.
Pastor Maria Ramirez of Out of Exile Ministries believes everyone has a purpose and a plan. Her personal journey as a Mexican/American in West Chicago has taught her about giving back to a community that has given her so much. She arrived in the community when she was five years old and felt a strong need to fit in during the early years. "I was encouraged by my teachers at Community High School to pursue my dreams. I grew to know that someday I wanted to be a voice for others. I was the first person in my family to earn a college degree and each of my three children have succeeded in their chosen professions," she proudly shared. She and her husband began the non-denominational ministry which seeks to help people understand their special place in the world. She became involved with the planning committee for the Mexican Independence Day Parade and Celebration because the event speaks to their philosophy of "freedom for all people". Pastor Maria explains: "The celebration commemorates the events and people that resulted in Mexico's independence that put an end to centuries' old oppression". Today, Out of Exile Ministries strives to provide spiritual support and empowerment to those needing direction. Pastor Maria is proud of West Chicago for sponsoring the event and views the City as a role-model for other communities in embracing and celebrating its diversity.
Sara Phalen, co-founder of People Made Visible, a not-for-profit group seeking to facilitate community through dynamic art and social endeavors, has a strong connection to local history as the former West Chicago City Museum Registrar. In that role, she coordinated an exhibit titled Building Community: Creating a Dialogue About Mexican Contributions Through Oral Histories. The project was funded by a grant from the History Channel and took Sara into the community to document the oral histories of Mexican immigrants with the help of students from Community High School. The innovative preservation project was designed to bring the community together, actively engage children in the preservation of their local history and communicate the importance of saving local history for future generations. "Community partnerships are one of the goals of People Made Visible. Our group strives to address, celebrate and educate people about our diversity. The entire community benefits from this rich history." People Made Visible will launch the event by bringing an artist-in-residence to West Chicago for an interactive community project.
Valeria Perez is a face and voice for the Hispanic population at West Chicago's City Hall. She works in the Administration Department as the Public Information Officer and is often called upon frequently for her translation skills. Valeria has worked at the City since 2001 when she began her career as a student intern from Community High School District 94. Her position has evolved to include community outreach for residents and businesses. "It is a great honor to serve as the City liaison for the Mexican Independence Day Parade and Celebration," she said. Her enthusiasm has led to the growth of the committee and the introduction of many exciting cultural elements to the event.
Anna Rosalez has made a career out of fun and games, and she takes the job very seriously. As the Recreation Coordinator for the West Chicago Park District she is well-known to every segment of the population as she organizes events for tots through seniors. Her enthusiasm, originality and creativity has rewarded the community with successful programs such as Movies in the Park, Touch-a-Truck, Polar Express, Safety Town and more. Her connection to the Mexican Independence Day Parade and Celebration is a natural fit, and she will be bringing her talents to the coordination of children's Mexican-themed games and crafts. Anna's knowledge and affinity for Mexican history and tradition was introduced through her husband's family. "My mother-in-law came to the states from Aguascalientes in 1947, and my father-in-law from Galeana Nuevo Leon in 1951. They moved to West Chicago in 1954 and opened the Latin American Store in the former Miguel's Barbershop location on Main Street." Anna will host the children's activities for the celebration at the American Legion on Main Street.
Since 1990, Jackie Ocampo-Gutierrez' family has run Supermercado Tampico, a grocery store in downtown West Chicago. She attributes the great success her family has had developing a business in the community, which is soon to expand to a second location as Tampico Fresh Market on North Avenue and Route 59, because of the people it serves. Her involvement working on the Mexican Independence Day Committee is a way for her to give back and say thank you. She admits that events like this one are important on many levels. "While the music, food, and costumes may remind people of their background, it is equally important for others who may be unfamiliar to share in a different culture. The hope is that this event will attract people from every nationality to enjoy the best of the Mexican tradition."
For a schedule of the events that will be included in West Chicago's Mexican Independence Day Parade and Celebration on Sunday, September 12, 2010 from 12:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. in downtown West Chicago, visit this page.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25, 2010
Local Contractor Tom Cherrington
 Local Contractor Tom Cherrington of Cherrington Design and Building, Inc. wanted to keep his crews busy during a slow period when the economy tanked earlier in 2009. He has since discovered the rewards and personal satisfaction that comes from breathing new life into older structures and received a Rejuvenation Award from the West Chicago Historical Preservation Commission at the City Council meeting of August 16, 2010.
Cherrington, who bought a home originally built in 1918 which had become an eyesore to its neighbors on Joliet Street, revived it to an enviable state. While maintaining the character of the neighborhood, he replaced the heating, air conditioning, electrical and plumbing systems and added energy efficient windows. The house has now elevated the level of the surrounding homes and has since sold to an appreciative buyer.
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| Interior view of house when purchased by
Tom Cherrington in 2009. |
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| Today, the house, which has sold to an appreciative buyer, has become a showpiece property for the neighborhood. |
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Unlike most, Cherrington doesn't run from so-called "handyman specials", rather he views them as challenges and opportunities. His many years as a remodeling contractor specializing in room additions provide him with the knowledge and perspective for identifying diamonds in the rough - sometimes the very rough. Working with a local realtor, he seeks homes in need of repairs that would seem overwhelming to the average buyer, and is able to purchase them at extremely affordable prices. "I look for homes with good bones, sound structure. My philosophy is one of enhancing the structure, not tearing it down," said Cherrington.
According to John Fincham, the City's Assistant Director of the Community Development Department, the house on Joliet Street had been the source of intensive code enforcement activity over the past four years. The single-family house had, at some point during its history, been converted into a 2-flat rental property. The property went into foreclosure in 2007 and had been vacant for more than a year. During the foreclosure process, the property deteriorated significantly.
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