The West Peoria Firefighters’ Association is having its annual hog roast & raffle fund-raising at Crusen’s on Sunday, October 19th from 2:00 - 6:00 p.m. West Peoria firefighters will be going door-to-door selling the fund-raiser tickets which are $1/ea or $5/5 tickets with the 6th ticket being the meal ticket. The meal includes a pork sandwich, side dishes and one beverage. Raffle prizes are:$500/first, $250/second and $100/third. You do not need to be present to win at the drawing which will be the following Wednesday at the fire house. Fund-raising is an important aspect of the department and allows the purchase of much needed equipment. Firefighters are always in uniform when selling raffle tickets; they do not solicit over the telephone.
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The West Peoria Neighborhood Watch will host National Night Out on Friday, September 5, 2008 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the Franciscan Recreation Complex. Activities will include a dunk tank, canine demonstration, bicycle rodeo (kids bring your bikes), bicycle drawing, Kids I.D. Program, Eclectic LR Band, Flynn’s Irish Dancers, hot dogs, snow-cones and more. Read the rest of this entry »

There will be a Mass offered for the West Peoria Community on Sunday, August 10, 2008, 10:30 a.m. at the Immaculate Conception Convent, 2408 W. Heading Avenue.

The West Peoria Fire Department will begin charging for ambulance calls beginning October 1st pending completion of billing procedures. A combination of factors leads to the decision by the Fire Protection District Board of Trustees. The rising costs of medical equipment, supplies, and operating costs figured into the decision.

“In order to maintain the high quality of service to West Peorians, we unfortunately found it necessary to begin charging for ambulance calls,” stated Fire Chief Robert Stecher. “The ambulance service has dramatically changed over the last thirty plus years. There have been many life-saving medical and technological advances and we’ve been able to keep pace, but equipping and maintaining an ambulance today is far more costly.” Read the rest of this entry »

Evan Murphy became the 59th Eagle Scout for Troop 11 in early June 2008. His Eagle project consisted of remodeling work to the United Disciples Christian Church, the sponsoring institution for Troop 11. Troop 11 sent eleven boy scouts to summer camp for one week during the month of June.

The community of West Peoria, Troop and Pack 11, the West Peoria Lions Club all extend an invitation to join them in the annual 4th of July Parade and Flag-Raising Ceremony. This special day brings with it a feeling of community togetherness and heartfelt patriotism that truly touches the spirit. Read the rest of this entry »

Join us in the 2008 Jamboree Race on Saturday, June 7! If you would like to volunteer for this early morning event, please contact Krystiana, 674-1993. Volunteers are needed from approximately 6:00-9:00 a.m. The race starts promptly at 7:00 a.m. Runners and walkers: Pick up your race entry form at the following locations: Haddad’s, South Side Bank, Geier Florist, Alwan Pharmacy, The Hair Shoppe, West Peoria City Hall, Farmington Road Hardware, Joe’s Barber Shop, the Riverplex, Franciscan Recreation Complex, Running Central, and more! See you on race day!

The Jamboree will run during the evening at Franciscan Recreation Center. The Scouts’ carnival is from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. for the kids to enjoy. The band, Madison 221, will play after that. Snacks and drinks are available from various community organizations. Bring chairs and blankets and make yourselves comfy. You can make this a multi-generational event, bring the family.

While attending a recent event, there was discussion about the Heroes of 9/11, the New York City Fire Department. It made me think of the heroes we have in our community in the West Peoria Fire Department. They take time from their daily lives and families because they volunteer their services while having regular employment. My thanks to all of you and your families for the great sacrifices you make in providing services to our community.

West Peoria real estate tax bills were mailed the first week of May. Tax Collector Imelda Kelch is collecting taxes at her residence, 2206 W. Barker. Hours are 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. The first installment is due June 10, 2008. Installment stubs from your tax bill are now required at the time of payment. Anything after June 10, 2008 needs to be mailed to: the Peoria County Courthouse.

The community of West Peoria, Troop and Pack 11, the West Peoria Lions Club all extend an invitation to join them in the annual 4th of July Parade and Flag Raising Ceremony. This special day brings with it a feeling of community togetherness and heartfelt patriotism that truly touches the spirit. We proudly coordinate the longest-running 4th of July parade and flag raising in Central Illinois and will be honored if you and/or your organization will march with us.

The parade steps off at 10:00 a.m. from the corner of Waverly and Moss Avenues and concludes with the Flag Raising Ceremony at the United Disciples Christian Church on the corner of Kellogg and Cedar. Pastor Dwight Winnett, United Disciples Christian Church, will deliver the invocation. Troop 11 and Pack 11 will lead the flag raising. West Peoria mayor, Jim Dillon, will the guest speaker. You are all encouraged to attend this very special event. If you would like to take part in this year’s parade or nominate a grand marshal, contact Mark Wrhel at: mwrhel@insightbb.com or 472-4258.

Trophies will be awarded for the following: Most Patriotic, Best of Show, Best Juvenile, Grand Marshal and this year’s new category for Service Organizations. Entries are to be decorated in a patriotic theme. If you’ve never participated in a parade before, your patriotism is more than welcome! In previous years, the community has enjoyed viewing marching bands, classic cars, walking groups, dance troupes, groups on bicycles and prestigious floats.

The next Neighborhood Watch meeting will be held June 19th at 6:00 p.m. at the West Peoria City Hall. Deputy Chris Watkins will discuss criminal issues in the area. The next West Peoria Residents’ meeting will be June 19th at 6:30 p.m. at West Peoria City Hall immediately following the Neighborhood Watch meeting. The public is welcome.

Would you like to have your sidewalks redone? As a reminder, the City of West Peoria helps fund a sidewalk improvement program. Please call the City of West Peoria or go to: http://www.cityofwestpeoria.com/sidewalk_program.asp to see program guidelines and get a petition. The deadline to have your sidewalks redone in 2009 is September 30, 2008.

Curbside landscape waste pickup for 2008 has begun. Have lids on your garbage cans as required by City ordinance. And remember, if it poops, you scoop! Please be courteous to your fellow residents and pick up your dog’s waste.

The Code Enforcement Office would like to remind residents they are responsible for cleaning and maintaining their alleyways and disposing of all garbage and debris. The Code Enforcement Officer will send out violations and fines to all who fail to comply with city ordinances in a timely fashion. Most fines start at $50.00; legal action will be taken against violators who fail to pay the fine.

In order to promote the public health, safety, morals, comfort and general welfare of the citizens of the City, West Peoria is in the process of initiating a Property Maintenance & Occupancy Code. This code will serve to prevent and control blight and pertain to the upkeep of residential and commercial structures and property in West Peoria. The code will likely take effect sometime in May or June 2008. If you have questions, call West Peoria City Hall at 674-1993.

The City of West Peoria has an interest in pursuing a beautiful, clean and safe community all the while, continually striving to make West Peoria a better place to live and hope this is a goal shared by all community members. They have implemented a program to improve the quality of life for residents by focusing on one target area at a time. The code enforcement officer, community police officer and animal control specialist will be inspecting your neighborhood in the future. This team will survey the neighborhood, provide resources, will issue violations if they deem necessary and will be available to answer any questions. If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please call West Peoria City Hall at 674-1993.

West Peoria Township thanks the following people for all their help at Clean-up Day: Kelly Abraham, Sharon Kennedy, Sharon McBride, LeRoy Dohm, Rocky Matthews, Terry Masters, Dan Morse, Henry Strube, Bob DeSutter, Sandy DeSutter and the Boy Scouts of Troop 11.

West Peoria township and city have two elected officials that are St. Jude Runners in the Memphis to Peoria Run. Jimmy Dillon, township clerk and county board representative and Phil Roberts, city fourth ward alderman are participating again in this year’s event. They solicit donations to support St. Jude Hospital. If you’re so inclined, send them donations to recognize their efforts. Three other community members participating are: Angie Perrilles, Memphis to Peoria, Terry Hackman Jr. Pekin to Peoria and Christy Getz, Tri-County. These individuals give much of their time and effort for this event.

The West Peoria Lions Club will run the food booth at the Jamboree on June 7th. Come get a pork chop, brat, hotdog or popcorn from them. They will also be participating in the Moss Ave. Sale on Saturday June 14th. They will have a supply of all the candle scents that they sell at that event. West Peoria and Bartonville Lions Clubs collect aluminum cans that will be used to send a child to Camp Lions, a camp for the visually and hearing impaired. They continue to collect cans, old keys, glasses hearing aids and cell phones. Drop off any donations at Haddad’s Market or call Lion Linda at 673-6409. Their summer rounds out with the Annual July 4th. Parade and Flag Raising. If you have a suggestion for Grand Marshal please submit your nomination in writing to Lion Mark Wrhel at Haddad’s. Come join the Lions Club Family with our community projects. Call Lion Linda at 673-6409

Work has begun on revitalizing and redesigning the corner garden at Western, Heading, and Main streets. June, July and August are garden tour months for the West Peoria Garden Club. 2008 dues remain $10/individual and $18/families for the West Peoria Garden Club. If interested in joining, please send payment to Pat Sharp, 609 N Swords Ave, West Peoria, IL 61604.

In order to promote the public health, safety, morals, comfort and general welfare of the citizens of the City, West Peoria has initiated a Property Maintenance & Occupancy Code. This code will serve to prevent and control blight and pertain to the upkeep of residential and commercial structures and property in West Peoria. If you have any questions, please call West Peoria City Hall at 674-1993.

The West Peoria City Council approved a new ordinance defining and restricting garages sales. Garage sales shall not be conducted more than one time or for more than three consecutive days each calendar quarter. In no event shall a garage sale be conducted either before 7:00 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m. on any one day of sale. Residents are advised that all public works projects are almost impossible to reschedule and will proceed as planned, regardless of garage sales. It is recommended that residents check with City Hall about planned public works before scheduling a garage sale. All garage sale advertising shall have the date, time and address of any such sale included thereon. All signs advertising any garage sale shall be removed within 24 hours after the conclusion of the sale. To view the entire ordinance, visit http://www.cityofwestpeoria.com/new_ordinances.asp. Please contact West Peoria City Hall with any questions at 309.674.1993.

The City of West Peoria realizes the value in encouraging residents to help keep West Peoria an attractive place to live. In an effort to promote the beautification of its residential districts, the City has established a Paint Program for residential property owners. This program offers reimbursement of paint costs to residents who wish to paint the exterior of their homes or accessory structures (sheds, storage units, or garages). Reimbursement will be granted for exterior paint only. Participants who purchase paint in the City of West Peoria will receive reimbursement of 50% of total paint costs, up to a maximum of $250. If the paint is not purchased in West Peoria, the maximum amount reimbursed will be 30% of total paint costs, also up to $250. Paint is available in West Peoria at Ace Hardware at 2504 W Rohmann Avenue and Farmington Road Hardware at 2600 W Farmington Road. Reimbursement of receipts will be received upon completion of project. Please contact West Peoria City Hall with any questions at 309.674.1993.

Curbside landscape waste pickup for 2008 has begun. Also, please have lids on your garbage cans as required by City ordinance. And remember, if it poops, you scoop! Please be courteous to your fellow residents and pick up your dog’s waste.

The Code Enforcement Office would like to remind residents they are responsible for cleaning and maintaining their alleyways and disposing of all garbage and debris. The Code Enforcement Officer will send out violations and fines to all who fail to comply with city ordinances in a timely fashion. Most fines start at $50.00; legal action will be taken against violators who fail to pay the fine.

Have you noticed the neatness to our neighborhoods and that they are basically free from litter on our streets and sidewalks? People in the City of Peoria complain about all their litter. Much of our neat appearance is due to a woman who I see walking in the mornings and picks up litter that she spots on her walks. Many thanks to this individual for making our area neat. Join us in the 2008 Jamboree Race on Saturday, June 7! If you would like to volunteer for this early morning event, please contact Krystiana, 674-1993. Volunteers are needed from approximately 6:00-9:00 a.m. The race starts promptly at 7:00a.m. Runners and walkers: Pick up your race entry form at the following locations: Haddad’s, South Side Bank, Geier Florist, Alwan Pharmacy, The Hair Shoppe, West Peoria City Hall, Farmington Road Hardware, Joe’s Barber Shop, the Riverplex, Franciscan Recreation Complex, Running Central, and more! See you on race day!

The West Peoria Residents Association will have a Parking Lot Sale, Saturday, May 3rd from 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at the Deal Insurance Parking Lot, corner of Sterling & Barker. If you have items to donate to this event, or if you are able to donate an hour of your time to help on the day of the sale, please call Maggie Moore @ 673-0535 or Loretta Fehl @ 637-0326.

Another May 3rd event is the Hazardous Waste Disposal Event sponsored by Peoria County Recycling and the Illinois EPA at Exposition Gardens. The event will run from 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Now is the opportunity to clear your residence of many items that can cause potential problems. Some of the household materials accepted are: oil-based paints, paint thinners, stains, varnishes, aerosol products, hobby chemicals, insecticides, pesticides, herbicides, pool chemicals, cleaning products, auto (lead-acid) batteries, mercury thermometers, old gasoline, used motor oil, antifreeze, household batteries, florescent lamps, cell phones, driveway sealer, pharmaceuticals and medications. Materials not accepted are: ammunition, explosives, fireworks, agricultural wastes, business and institutional wastes, biological wastes, tires, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and propane tanks. If you have questions, call 681-2550. Take advantage of this opportunity because this event will not be returning to the area on an annual basis.

West Peoria real estate tax bills will be mailed the first week of May. Tax Collector Imelda Kelch will begin collecting taxes at her residence, 2206 W. Barker, once the bills are received. Hours will be 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. The first installment is due June 10, 2008. Installment stubs from your tax bill are now required at the time of payment. Anything after June 10, 2008 needs to be mailed to: the Peoria County Courthouse.

The Neighborhood Watch at this time has nineteen streets with organized block watch programs. Community Watch signs have been ordered and will be placed on each street in the program. The goal is that every street in West Peoria will be involved in the Watch program.If you are interested in organizing a “watch” on your block, contact Maggie Moore at 673-0535.

The next Neighborhood Watch meeting will be held May 15th at 6:00 p.m. at the West Peoria City Hall. Deputy Chris Watkins will discuss criminal issues. The next West Peoria Residents’ meeting will be May 15th at 6:30 p.m. at West Peoria City Hall. The public is welcome.

The West Peoria City Council approved a new ordinance defining and restricting garage sales. Garage sales shall not be conducted more than one time or for more than three consecutive days each calendar quarter. In no event shall a garage sale be conducted either before 7:00 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m. on any one day of sale. Residents are advised that all public works projects are almost impossible to reschedule and will proceed as planned, regardless of garage sales. It is recommended that residents check with City Hall about planned public works before scheduling a garage sale. All garage sale advertising shall have the date, time and address of any such sale included thereon. All signs advertising any garage sale shall be removed within 24 hours after the conclusion of the sale. To view the entire ordinance, visit:

http://www.cityofwestpeoria.com/new_ordinances.asp. Please contact West Peoria City Hall with any questions at 674-1993.

Recognizing the value of encouraging residents to help keep West Peoria an attractive place to live, the City has established a Paint Program for residential property owners. This paint program offers reimbursement of paint costs to residents wishing to paint the exterior of their homes or accessory structures (sheds, storage units, or garages). Reimbursement will be granted for exterior paint only. Participants who purchase paint in the City of West Peoria will receive reimbursement of 50% of total paint costs, up to a maximum of $250. For paint not purchased in West Peoria, the maximum amount reimbursed will be 30% of total paint costs, also up to $250. Paint is available in West Peoria at Ace Hardware at 2504 W Rohmann Avenue and Farmington Road Hardware at 2600 W. Farmington Road. Reimbursement of receipts will be received upon completion of project. Contact West Peoria City Hall with questions at 674-1993.

Curbside landscape waste pickup for 2008 has begun. City ordinance requires lids on your garbage cans! Remember, if it poops, you scoop! Please be courteous to fellow residents and pick up your dog’s waste.

The Code Enforcement Office would like to remind residents they are responsible for cleaning and maintaining their alleyways and disposing of all garbage and debris. Violations and fines will be sent to all who fail to comply with city ordinances in a timely fashion. Most fines start at $50.00; legal action will be taken against violators who fail to pay the fine.

To promote the public health, safety, morals, comfort and general welfare of the citizens of the City, West Peoria is initiating a Property Maintenance and Occupancy Code. This code will serve to prevent and control blight and pertain to the upkeep of residential and commercial structures and property in West Peoria. The code will take effect sometime in May or June 2008. For info, call West Peoria City Hall at 674-1993.

The City of West Peoria has an interest in pursuing a beautiful, clean and safe community all the while, continually striving to make West Peoria a better place to live and hope this is a goal shared by all community members. Thus, they have implemented a program to improve the quality of life for residents by focusing on one target area at a time. The code enforcement officer, community police officer and animal control specialist will be inspecting your neighborhood in the future. This team will survey the neighborhood, provide resources, will issue violations if deemed necessary and will be available to answer questions. If you have questions, comments or concerns, please call West Peoria City Hall at 674-1993.

Attention West Peoria entrepreneurs! The Turner Center for Entrepreneurship at Bradley University hosts free monthly workshops on Starting Your Own Business and Writing a Business Plan. Visit www.bradley.edu/turnercenter/events for more information and to register for upcoming workshops!

For businesses operating out of homes: All businesses in West Peoria operating within a residential building are required to complete a Home Occupation Permit. The permit can be found online at:http://www.cityofwestpeoria.com/permits.asp or at City Hall. The accompanying fee is $75. A home occupation annual renewal permit is also required whereby the fee is $25.

1476 Meals on Wheels were delivered to seniors in our community by the Rural Peoria County Council on Aging in 2007. If you or a neighbor would like to become part of this effort, call West Peoria township supervisor, Robert DeSutter. West Peoria Government Day, a program for local students at Manual, Notre Dame, Calvin Coolidge & St Mark’s Schools to visit both township and city government, was held on April 11th. Forty-one students and four teachers participated. The City had them run a mock city council meeting on recycling and the township offered students a chance to run a mock township caucus.

On April 12th, Bradley students and Bob DeSutter spent three hours picking up twenty-seven bags of litter on Swords, Pierson Hills and Farmington Road. The students from the Alpha Phi Omega Service fraternity are: Chad Miller, Ricky McAdams, Brandy Payne, Alexa Davis, Angie Roccasalva, Robin Flick, Linda Pineda, Jake Seger and Steve Bannon. Their hard work is very much appreciated and these areas of West Peoria look much better. Think twice before throwing litter in our community. Many hours of hard work is spent keeping our area clean that could be prevented by simply taking your litter/waste to your home and disposing of it there.

West Peoria Garden Club members and guests are invited to the home of Bob Monier on Tuesday, May 20 at 6:30 p.m. to create their own hypertufa pot or stepping stone. There is a cost of $5.00 associated with the project if you were not part of last year’s efforts.

Work has already begun on revitalizing and redesigning the corner garden at Western, Heading, & Main streets. June, July and August are garden tour months for the club. 2008 dues remain $10/individual and $18/families for the West Peoria Garden Club.To join, mail a check to Pat Sharp, 609 N. Swords Ave, West Peoria, IL 61604.

You can help make a difference in your community! The City has created a volunteer program to assist the elderly, disabled or otherwise incapacitated. This program helps the elderly and disabled with outdoor tasks they may find difficult or impossible. Volunteers are needed on a minimal basis to perform services such as raking leaves or shoveling driveways. If you would like assistance from this program or to volunteer for this program, please call Krystiana Bronny at 674-1993. Your minimal commitment can have a huge impact on someone’s life.

The community of West Peoria, Troop & Pack 11, the West Peoria Lions Club all extend an invitation to join them in the annual 4th of July Parade and Flag Raising Ceremony. The parade steps off at 10:00 a.m. from Waverly & Moss Avenues and concludes with the Flag Raising Ceremony at the United Disciples Christian Church at Kellogg & Cedar. Pastor Dwight Winnett of United Disciples Christian Church will deliver the invocation. Troop 11 & Pack 11 will lead the flag raising. West Peoria mayor, Jim Dillon will be the guest speaker. All are encouraged to attend. To take part in this year’s parade or nominate a grand marshal, contact Mark Wrhel at mwrhel@comcast.net or 472-4258.

Join the Largest Service Organization in the World and become a Lion. As a Lion you can help a child see, hear, or send that child to camp for a week this summer. Save our planet Earth by recycling glasses, hearing aids, keys, cell phones, ink cartridges, aluminum cans and tabs. Enjoy the companionship of friends and neighbors while working on projects together for the betterment your community.

The West Peoria Lions are currently selling 100% Soy Candles and Tart Warmers. The candles will be available at the West Peoria Residents Association Sale on May 3rd at Sterling and Barker (parking lot beside John Deal’s Insurance office).

Watch for the Lions at Haddad’s Market on May 24th for Tootsie Pop Day. Proceeds from this event help the Hearing and Visually Impaired in your community. For more info call Linda at 673-6409 or Jim at 208-3516 or Carolyn at 208-3815.

Congratulations to the Manual Rams boys basketball team, cheerleaders and Rams fans. The boys team won second in state in the new Class AA division. They performed admirably and well for their community. Think of this past miserable winter and the effort that these young men and their coaches expended to attend the practices, games and other events required of them. Appreciate all they did to bring us such fun and well-played basketball. Many thanks to all those involved. Be proud to be a part of the Manual community. Read the rest of this entry »

The City of West Peoria is having a “Community Night” with the Peoria Rivermen Hockey team at the Peoria Civic Center Sunday, March 9. There is a “Fun on the Run Family Fun” event from 2:00 -3:00 p.m. Enjoy $1 Hotdogs, $1 Cokes and $1 Chips. Also, there will be Fun-on-the-Run inflatables along with The Unique Twist balloon animals and face painting by the Zoo Lady. Come watch our West Peoria mayor, Jim Dillon, drop the puck to start the game. The official start time for the game is 3:00 p.m. There is also a post game skate with the Rivermen, you can bring your skates and skate with Rivermen players for 30 minutes after the game. Admission is only $1 for kids 12 & under. Tickets at the Peoria Civic Center box office are $18 for lower bowl and $13 for upper bowl.

The West Peoria Easter Egg Hunt for West Peoria children will be held on Sunday, March 16th at Woodridge Professional Building on Heading Avenue. The Hunt is for children up to eight year old. Registration begins at 1:30 p.m. and the hunt starts promptly at 2:00 p.m. Special prize baskets will be awarded in the three age groups of egg hunters.

Now at Franciscan Recreation Complex: Winter Walkers! Come walk in a heated gym this month. Walkers are welcome Monday through Friday, 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. This is a free service!

The West Peoria Lions Club is sponsoring a Free Hearing Screening on Tuesday, March 11th from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at Haddad’s. They will also be giving information and sugar free candy on March 22nd at Haddad’s for the American Diabetes Association. The Club continues to sell 100% soy candles. If interested, call Carolyn at 208-3815. The Club meets the second and fourth Thursdays of the month at 7:00 p.m. For more information, contact Lion Linda at 673-6409.

Troop 11 News: The United Disciples Christian Church will soon be seeing some changes as Ryan Murphy gears up for his Eagle Scout Project. His plans include some repairs and painting. The troop is looking forward to helping him complete the project and obtaining the rank of Eagle Scout. Scouting was on the move the last two months. Troop 11 went to Ingersol Scout Reservation for an over night campout with sledding and ice fishing in January and in February snow skiing at Snow Star Ski Resort in Andalusia, IL. March is shaping up to be busy also! Trash bag sales are starting, with deliveries expected to be around the first of April. If you have not heard from a scout by mid March call Scoutmaster Bob DeSutter at 674-6668, he will notify a scout to contact you or you can place your order with him. The Scouts rely on these sales to help pay for their summer camp. The cost is $14.00 for a roll of 100 bags. Second year WEBLOS will be crossing over into Boy Scouts in March, growing again and looking forward to great things happening.

The West Peoria City Council recently approved a new ordinance defining and restricting garages sales. Garage sales shall not be conducted more than one time or for more than three consecutive days each calendar quarter. In no event shall a garage sale be conducted either before 7:00 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m. on any one day of sale. Residents are advised that all public works projects are almost impossible to reschedule and will proceed as planned, regardless of garage sales. It is recommended that residents check with City Hall about planned public works before scheduling a garage sale. All garage sale advertising shall have the date, time and address of any such sale included thereon. All signs advertising any garage sale shall be removed within 24 hours after the conclusion of the sale. To view the entire ordinance, visit: http://www.cityofwestpeoria.com/new_ordinances.asp. Please contact West Peoria City Hall with any questions at 674-1993.

In the case of snow storms, the snow removal policy is CURB-TO-CURB PLOWING, as there is a need to clear streets so that Fire & Rescue vehicles can travel safely, and for the availability of on-street parking. Priorities are to ensure that Swords hill and the main thoroughfares in the community are cleared for emergency vehicles. All streets in West Peoria are designated emergency snow routes during a snow storm, although the main thoroughfares are: Heading, Rohmann, Ayres, Callender, and Waverly Avenues. As these main thoroughfares are cleared, the City focuses attention to clearing secondary routes and side streets. When a snow fall is imminent, you can help the City by parking your vehicles in your garage or driveway, and by shoveling the sidewalks in front of your residence. Also, please assist us by shoveling out fire hydrants wherever you may see them. Thanks again and please drive safely this winter season.

The City of West Peoria has an interest in pursuing a beautiful, clean and safe community. They continually strive to make West Peoria a better place to live and hope this goal is shared by all community members. They have implemented a program to improve the quality of life for residents by focusing on one target area at a time. The city code enforcement officer, community police officer and animal control specialist will be inspecting your neighborhood in the future. This team will survey the neighborhood, provide resources, will issue violations if they deem necessary and will be available to answer any questions. If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please contact West Peoria City Hall at 674-1993.

The Jamboree Race is back and we want YOU! In order to give the race a running start, volunteers are needed to help coordinate and organize the event. If you would like to be a part of this year’s success, please contact Krystiana Bronny at 674-1993. The committee has already met and there is great need for help from the community. Assistance is needed the day of the Jamboree, June 7, 2008 and before. Respond if you are able to help get this fun West Peoria event back on track.

A bit of West Peoria information for you about CityLink routes: the #5 Main bus travels 216 miles in West Peoria only during its weekly runs. The #11 Western bus travels 53 miles in West Peoria only during its weekly runs making the weekly total 269 miles and allowing the community many opportunities to ride with CityLink.

The Annual Town Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 8th at 7:30 p.m. in City Hall. This annual township meeting is mandated by the State for a specific time and date. It offers the opportunity for citizens to come and have a voice in their local government.

Government Day, a program for local students to visit both township and city government, is scheduled for Friday, April 11th. This is an opportunity for the students involved to have a “hands-on” opportunity to learn how their local governments operate.

2008 dues remain $10/individual and $18/families for the West Peoria Garden Club. If you are interested in joining please mail a check to Pat Sharp, 609 N Swords Ave, West Peoria, IL 61604. Plans for 2008 include building containers, learning about raised bed gardening and touring local gardens.

Clean-Up Day for West Peoria residents will be Saturday, April 26th. This is for West Peoria residents ONLY. Volunteers are needed. Any questions or to volunteer, contact Bob DeSutter, 674-0462.

Is anyone else ready to see one of our change of seasons? Let’s all think S-P-R-I-N-G.

The City of West Peoria will have a “Community Night” with the Peoria Rivermen Hockey team at the Peoria Civic Center Sunday, March 9. There is a “Fun on the Run Family Fun” event from 2:00 -3:00 p.m. Enjoy $1 Hotdogs, $1 Cokes and $1 Chips! Also, there will be Fun-on-the-Run inflatables along with The Unique Twist balloon animals and face painting by the Zoo Lady! Come watch our West Peoria mayor, Jim Dillon, drop the puck to start the game! The official start time for the game is 3:00 p.m. There is also a post game skate with the Rivermen, so bring your skates and come skate with your Rivermen players for 30 minutes after the game! Admission is only $1 for kids 12 & under! Tickets at the Peoria Civic Center box office are $18 for lower bowl and $13 for upper bowl. Exclusive West Peoria tickets ($16 for lower bowl and $11 for upper bowl) are available for purchase at West Peoria City Hall until Friday, February 15. See you at the game!

Now at Franciscan Recreation Complex: Winter Walkers! Come walk in a heated gym this February and March. Walkers are welcome Monday through Friday, 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. This is a free service!

With winter here, the City would like to remind all residents in the case of snow storms, the snow removal policy is CURB-TO-CURB PLOWING, as there is a need to clear streets so that Fire & Rescue vehicles can travel safely, and for the availability of on-street parking. priorities are to ensure that Swords Hill and the main thoroughfares in the community are cleared for emergency vehicles. Emergency snow routes in West Peoria are: Heading, Rohmann, Ayres, Callender, and Waverly Avenues. As those routes are cleared, the City will focus attention on clearing secondary routes and side streets. Thank you for your ongoing patience and understanding. When a snow fall is imminent, you can help the City by parking your vehicles in your garage or driveway, and by shoveling the sidewalks in front of your residence. Please assist by shoveling out fire hydrants wherever you may see them.

The Jamboree Race is back and we want YOU! In order to give the race a running start, volunteers are needed to help coordinate and organize the event. If you would like to be a part of this year’s success, please contact Krystiana Bronny at 309-674-1993. The committee has already met and there is great need for help from the community. Assistance is needed the day of the Jamboree, June 7, 2008. Respond if you are able to help get this fun West Peoria event back on track.
West Peoria Township is providing a listing of upcoming community events for you. The Annual Easter Egg Hunt will be Sunday, March 16th. The Annual Town Meeting will be Tuesday, April 8th at West Peoria City Hall. This event presents the opportunity for all citizens to come and have a say in their local government. Mark April 26th from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. for the Annual Clean Up Day.

The West Peoria Neighborhood Watch will next meet on February 21, 2008 at 6:00 and in City Hall. The West Peoria Residents Association meeting will follow at 6:30 p.m. The public is invited and encouraged to attend.

2008 dues remain $10/individual and $18/families for the West Peoria Garden Club. If you are interested in joining please mail a check to Pat Sharp, 609 N Swords Ave, West Peoria, IL 61604. Plans for 2008 include building containers, learning about raised bed gardening and touring local gardens.

The Lions Club is not merely a social or fraternal club; it is a pledge by local civic minded men and women of all ages who are willing and anxious to give of their time, energy, and resources in service to their own community. Lions keep uppermost in their minds those who have not been blessed with good health and opportunity, and try to create an atmosphere where everyone will think and feel something about the “other guy”

West Peoria Lions would really like to get to know you and invite you to join us, so you too can help others in our community. Meeting night is on the 2nd and 4th Thursday at 7:00 p.m. in the basement of the United Disciples Church 2018 W. Kellogg Ave. The Club has a recycling program for used eye glasses, hearing aids, keys, ink cartridges, cell phones, aluminum cans, and tabs. The Club is now selling 100% Soy Candles, soaps, and air fresheners. Soy candles burn cleaner, longer, and the scents last through the whole candle. To order candles or for any information please give a call to Linda 673-6409, Jim or Carolyn 673-6207.

Troop 11 Boy Scouts had their annual Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner with a Court of Honor. All Scouts present were recognized with either a Merit Badge and/or Rank Advancement. The troop was asked again this year to set the luminaries for the Residents Association Christmas Party but due to inclement weather they were not able to do so. Andrew and Thomas Gestrine are the two newest members to the troop. The Troop thanks all who purchased Christmas wreaths or holiday butter breads from them. Cub Scout Pack 11 2nd year Webelos rebuilt the Cub Scout Christmas float that has been a West Peoria tradition for many years. The float was destroyed during the December 1, 2006 snow storm when the township building collapsed on it. Thank you to the following boys and their adult leaders: Jim Hoerdeman, Joseph Zilkowski, Nate Taylor, Michael Garayalde, Frank Drew, Merritt Stott, Mathew Mooty, Tyler Mayer, Ryan Casey, Michael Shanahan, Mr. Jeff Hoerdeman and Mr. Bruce Zilkowski. Thanks to the West Peoria Fire Department for escorting the float again this year. I am sure that many of you enjoyed having the float travel your neighborhoods. I know that when I hear it, I turn on my porch light to let the scouts know that I enjoy their tradition.

NEW at Franciscan Recreation Complex: Winter Walkers! Come walk in a heated gym this January, February and March. Walkers are welcome Monday through Friday, 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. This is a free service!

The Code Enforcement Office would like to remind residents they are responsible for cleaning and maintaining their alleyways and disposing of all garbage and debris. The Code Enforcement Officer will send out violations and fines to all who fail to comply with city ordinances in a timely fashion. Most fines start at $50.00; legal action will be taken against violators who fail to pay the fine.

With winter here, the City would like to remind all residents in the case of snow storms, the snow removal policy is CURB-TO-CURB PLOWING, as there is a need to clear streets so that Fire & Rescue vehicles can travel safely, and for the availability of on-street parking. Priorities are to ensure that Swords hill and the main thoroughfares in the community are cleared for emergency vehicles. Emergency snow routes in West Peoria are: Heading, Rohmann, Ayres, Callender, and Waverly Avenues. As those routes are cleared, the City will focus attention on clearing secondary routes and side streets. Thank you for your ongoing patience and understanding. When a snow fall is imminent, you can help the City by parking your vehicles in your garage or driveway, and by shoveling the sidewalks in front of your residence. Please assist by shoveling out fire hydrants wherever you may see them.

The City of West Peoria has an interest in pursuing a beautiful, clean and safe community. Community leaders continually strive to make West Peoria a better place to live and hope this is a goal shared by all community members. Thus, an initiative to improve the quality of life for residents has begun by focusing on one target area at a time. The code enforcement officer, community police officer and animal control specialist will be inspecting your neighborhood in the future. This team will survey the neighborhood, provide resources, issue violations if they deem necessary, and will be available to answer any questions. If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please contact West Peoria City Hall at 309.674.1993.

The Jamboree Race is back and we want YOU! In order to give the race a running start, volunteers are needed to help coordinate and organize the event. If you would like to be a part of next year’s success, please contact Krystiana Bronny at 309.674-1993.

The City of West Peoria and the Greater Illinois Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation are working together to create an exercise program for West Peoria residents. This program will use gentle activities to help increase joint flexibility and range of motion, to maintain muscle strength, and to reduce pain and fatigue. The Arthritis Foundation will provide training for anybody interested in leading this exercise program. For those interested in helping initiate this program, leading the exercise classes or becoming a participant, please contact Krystiana Bronny at West Peoria City Hall 674-1993 or Heidi Koll at the Arthritis Foundation 682-6600.

You can help make a difference in your community! West Peoria’s Americorps VISTA, Krystiana Bronny, is starting a volunteer program to assist the elderly, disabled or otherwise incapacitated. This program would help the elderly and disabled with outdoor tasks they may find difficult or impossible. Volunteers will be needed on a minimal basis to perform services such as raking leaves or shoveling driveways. If you would like assistance from this program or to volunteer for this program, please call Krystiana Bronny at (309).674.1993. Your minimal commitment can have a huge impact.

The West Peoria Neighborhood Watch will next meet on January 17, 2008 at 6:00 and in City Hall. The first meeting of 2008 for the West Peoria Residents Association will follow at 6:30. The public is invited and encouraged to attend.

2008 dues remain $10/individual and $18/families for the West Peoria Garden Club. If you are interested in joining please mail a check to Pat Sharp, 609 N Swords Ave, West Peoria, IL 61604. Plans for 2008 include building containers, learning about raised bed gardening and touring local gardens.

The West Peoria Lions Club has a recycling program for a variety of different items that are greatly needed and include everything from used glasses, hearing aids, keys, ink cartridges, and cell phones.If you would like to donate any of these items to the West Peoria Lions Club, please contact Lion Jim at 673-6207.

I wish all of West Peoria a safe, healthy, successful and fun 2008. Let us continue working together for the betterment of our community.