The Incorporated Village of

As I write this the Department of Public Works is busy sprucing up the Village for the Holiday Season. Village Square, the focal point of the Village, has received a much-needed makeover, with new plantings, fencing and a beautiful new Christmas Tree, which is a living tribute to all the lives forever affected by September 11, 2001. The triangle at the corner of Lakeshore Drive and Park Boulevard was given a new look too. Village staff removed the ivy, cut back the overgrown bushes and replaced the dying trees with new trees.

Looking back on the past few months, it was great to see our residents and their children enjoy the many different events the Village has to offer. Park After Dark has been such a successful event because of the support the Village merchants have received from residents, who came out to enjoy a beautiful evening on the Boulevard with their friends and neighbors. The Ancient Order of Hibernians Division 15 held the half-way to St. Patrick’s Day event at Brady Park and the turn-out was phenomenal. The annual Fall Festival and Street Fair, even with the rain date, saw an increase in attendance.

Halloween in the Village is always special – Our Lady of the Island Council #6911 Knights of Columbus Halloween Parade at Brady Park had over 146 participants registered, which was more than they have seen in at least 22 years. Safe Halloween Trick or Treating gave me the opportunity to speak with many of our residents and once again I would like to thank you and our merchants for making this such a great event.

The Village Board and I are looking forward to celebrating the holiday season and invite you to join us for the lighting of our Christmas Tree and Menorah on Saturday, November 26th at 5 p.m. in Village Square.

We are also delighted to bring back the Holiday Open House on Sunday, December 4th from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Talented students from our local schools will be providing musical entertainment. It is a wonderful event for the entire family.

As we prepare for the upcoming holidays, please consider those who are less fortunate, especially children. The Village is participating in the Marines Toys for Tots Program. Donations of new, unwrapped toys can be dropped off in the lobby of Village Hall until Wednesday, December 6th. My family and I will be bringing toys to donate during our Holiday Open House, and I encourage anyone who attends on December 4th, if they can, to donate as well.

In keeping with the Holiday spirit, we ask you to remember our local small businesses and when you can, please shop and dine locally at our village merchants.

On behalf of the Village Board, our entire staff, and our families, we wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and a Happy New Year.

May God bless you, your family, and our Village.

Daniel Pearl

Village Mayor