Once again we have an annual opportunity to honor fellow West Peorians who have spent many hours improving their yards which in turn improve the neighborhoods. Nominate someone who has noticeably changed and improved the community through their hard work. The West Peoria Beautiful Award will be presented at the September West Peoria Residents Association meeting 6 p.m. Sept. 21 in City Hall. Nominations are due by Sept. 15 in City Hall by written communication or by completing the form in the West Peoria News that was delivered to all residences in the community. Forms are also available at City Hall.

This summer has been a fearful one for weeds growing rampant along our curbs. Take a look and the time to pull weeds from in front of your home. It doesn’t take long and improves the appearance of our neighborhoods greatly.

A West Peoria ordinance states “The owner of any animal shall promptly remove an accumulation of such animal’s waste wherever it may exist in the city” which is a fineable offense. This will be enforced.

Boy Scout Troop 11 continues its long-lived success producing Eagle Scouts. This year, Ted Lewis, son of Erin and Jason Lewis, earned his Eagle Scout as did Brandon Langfeldt, son of Tara and Seth Langfeldt. This award is widely recognized as being awarded to an organized, hard-working young man who will continue to be an asset to his family, community and future endeavors. Congratulations to both of these young men.

It’s time again for the West Peoria Fire Department Annual Family Day celebration from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 17. Bring the family, get fire prevention information, up-close looks at the fire vehicles and most importantly kids can ride on a fire truck. The fire truck ride is truly a special treat for our kids. Visiting with our first responders allows us to know those who give so much of their personal time to keep our community safe. Take the time to introduce yourself to them. The Fire Department is in need of volunteers; if interested contact Chief Terry Schadt at 674-6615 or stop by the firehouse during drills Wednesday evenings or Sunday mornings. The firefighters big fundraiser is coming Oct. 29. The Annual Hog Roast Dinner will run from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Upcoming meetings are: Neighborhood Watch, 6 p.m. Sept. 13, in City Hall; As the Page Turns Book Club, Sept. 18; Residents Association, 6 p.m. Sept. 21 in City Hall; City Council, 7 p.m. Sept. 12 and 26.

Residents of Peoria County are eligible to dispose of a load of residential refuse per week at the County Landfill at no cost. This is residential refuse only. For more information contact, 565-4281 or check the Peoria County web site.

West Peoria community officers remind all residents to lock their vehicles even if they are on your property. Theft from a motor vehicle is a crime of opportunity. There has been a big up-tick in vehicle burglary this summer. Don’t allow yourself to become a victim. Lock your vehicles.