Tuesday, December 23, 2008

William Tell Holiday Inn New Year’s Extravaganza

Wednesday, December 31

6:30 p.m. Doors Open

7 – 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. Five Hour Premium Bar Package

8 – 10 p.m. Dinner Stations

William Tell Holiday Inn, 6201 Joliet Road, Countryside

$105 plus tax. Includes Champagne Toast and party favors at midnight, dancing and music with Tone Productions DJ. Special discounted room rates available with ticket purchase. For more information visit www.williamtellbanquets.com.

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Santa Visits!

Sunday, December 21

12:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Chalet, Pleasant Dale Park District

8300 S. Wolf Road, Willow Springs, 60480

Santa Claus is coming to town! Children can enjoy a Christmas craft, decorate a cookie, enjoy a snack, and take a picture with Santa (1-1:45 p.m.) Pictures - $3. Entry – FREE. More information, call 630-662-6220 or visit www.pleasantdaleparks.org.

Monday, December 15, 2008

Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Skills Challenge

Pleasant Dale Park District

Saturday, January 17, 2009

1 – 2 p.m.

Pleasant Dale Park District, 8300 S. Wolf Road, Willow Springs, 60480

Boys and girls ages 9 – 14 will have the opportunity to showcase their shooting, dribbling and passing skills. Participants will compete in age groups. FREE! For information visit: www.pleasantdaleparks.org or call: 630-662-6220.

Chicago Canine Club Holiday Adoption Event

Saturday, December 20

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Chicago Canine Club, 16W129 83rd Street, Burr Ridge, 60527 (off Madison)

Welcome a new dog or cat home for the holidays! Small Paws Rescue (bichons), Animal Care League (big and small cats & dogs), Recycled Rots (sweet as pie!), and more. Call 630-654-0004 for more information.

Saturday, December 13, 2008

Cook County Provides Notification on Product Recall

Last week in Deerfield, Illinois, Walgreens recalled 173 teddy bears with chocolate bars sold in stores since late September 2008. Analysis by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration found that certain samples of the chocolate provided with the teddy bears were contaminated with melamine. Customers who purchased the teddy bears should return them to the Walgreens stores where they were purchased for a full refund. Walgreens quickly instructed stores to stop selling the product, which is specifically described as an approximately 9-inch high Dressy Teddy Bear with 4-oz. Chocolate Bar. The product's UPC number is 047475864485, and the product tag also includes the item number 291332. Walgreens has not received any reports of illness or injury related to this product.

Winter Break at the MAX

Monday, Tuesday & Friday

December 22, 23 & 26 and

December 29, 30 & January 2

9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

McCook Athletic & Exposition, 4750 South Vernon Avenue, McCook

Sports, activities, lunch & snacks in a safe environment for kids ages 4 – 14! Registration by December 15th. For more information call: (708) 485-9900

Lyons Township High School Theatre “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”

December 12, 13, & 14

7:30 p.m. Friday & Saturday; 3 p.m. Sunday

LTHS south campus, Performing Arts Center

4900 Willow Springs Road, Western Springs

$10 – Adults, $5 – Children & Seniors. Tickets may be purchased at the box office. Show starts promptly.

Sunday, December 7, 2008

Mark Your Calendars for the Holiday in the Park

The La Grange Park Business Association cordially invites you attend the 2008 Holiday in the Park event on Saturday, December 13th from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. All activities will be held at the Community Park District of La Grange Park Recreation Center, located at 1501 Barnsdale Road.

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Wii Bowling for Adults

This fun program is provided at the La Grange Park Library, located at 555 North La Grange Road. Come join the fun on Monday, December 8th at 7:00 p.m. Here is your chance to try out the Library’s Nintendo Game system. This program is meant for adults who have little experience with video games.

Monday, December 1, 2008

The Chamber will be collecting donations for three local charitable organizations !

In keeping with traditions of the season, the West Suburban Chamber will be collecting donations for three local charitable organizations (BEDS, CEP and Pillars) so they, too, will have a better holiday. There will be large “drop boxes” in the lobby of the LaGrange Country Club and a volunteer to assist you if you make cash or check donations. Tax donation receipts will be provided.

  • BEDS – Needs coffee, and food/gift coupons to local eateries. Make checks made out to BEDS.
  • CEP – Needs books, board and card games, craft items, socks, hats, and gloves for both girls and boys of all ages. Make checks out to CEP.
  • Pillars – Needs gift cards to Jewel, Dominick’s, other area grocery stores, Wal-Mart, Target, and similar retailers. Make checks out to PILLARS and put “Constance Morris House” in the memo section.

Sunday, November 30, 2008

LaGrange Christmas Walk

Saturday, December 6

5 - 9 p.m.

Downtown LaGrange

Highlights include: Merchant Open Houses, Old-Time Trolley rides, Santa & Mrs. Claus, Ice Sculptures, Bonfire & S’mores station, Music on the Main Stage at Village Hall, Petting Zoo, and much more! For more information, contact Honor Lorenzi, Urban Sole at urbansole@sbcglobal.net.

Saturday, November 29, 2008

Aurelio's Of LaGrange special offer!!!

Aurelio's of La Grange now offers all wines at half price every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. No coupon necessary. (Now until the end of the year:) Wednesday and Thursday are "Free pitcher of Pop" all day with any order over $20. Coupon required and is available at our store

Friday, November 28, 2008

La Grange Park Library First Monday Movies

Movie viewing begins at 10:30 a.m. in the Community Room.
  • December 1 – Christmas in Connecticut – Starring Barbara Stanwyck ad Dennis Morgan
  • January 5 – Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium, Starring Dustin Hoffman
  • February 2 – It Happened One Night – Starring Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert

Saturday, November 22, 2008

YMCA Men’s Club Annual Christmas Tree Sale

On November 28th, the Greater La Grange YMCA Men’s Club will begin its sale of Christmas Trees at their new location in Gordon Park, behind the old YMCA. Sale hours are Monday – Friday from 3:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and on Saturday & Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Supporting the YMCA Men’s Club Christmas Tree Sale helps support the needs of area communities. All proceeds benefit local charities and organizations.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

LaGrange: 8th Annual Pilgrim Pacer

5k Run and Walk

November 23

Lyons Township High School – north campus

7 a.m. – Registration

8:30 a.m. Race begins

Sponsored by the Rotary Club of LaGrange

Register to walk or run to benefit:

The Rotary Club of LaGrange, Community Support Services and

the Greater LaGrange YMCA

For vendor signup or information contact Mick Pinckney 708-354-9599 or Ken
Daemicke 630-887-7838. visit www.signmeup.com/59066 to register.



Countryside's Christmas Tree Lighting Festival

The event will take place on Friday, November 28th, 2008 at 6:00 P.M. at Memorial Park (55th Street and Plainfield Road) in Countryside. Free parking is available at Charter One Bank (450 West 55th Street, Countryside). Please visit www.gocountryside.net for more information.

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

La Grange Park Little League Registration

Registration takes place on Saturday, November 15 and Saturday, November 22 from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm at the Community Park District located at 1501 Barnsdale Road in La Grange Park. For more information, please contact Phil Dorner at 579-9228.

Monday, November 10, 2008

Proviso Township Tax Payer Outreach Meeting

On November 12, 2008, Proviso Township Assessor Michael Corrigan will be hosting a Property Assessment workshop at the Westchester Village Hall, 10300 Roosevelt Road, Westchester, IL, beginning at 7:00 p.m. This program will provide information on recent proposed property reassessments and how to file an "appeal" on the new assessments. For more information, please call 708-449-4300 ext 24.

Sunday, November 9, 2008

Empty Bowls Benefit-A community event to help combat hunger

The La Grange Business Association brings art to your table and food to the community!
Empty Bowls Benefit
Thursday, November 13
6 – 9 p.m.

Purchase your $20 hand crafted bowl at
Terra Incognito Studios 35 S. LaGrange Road

Then, travel around to enjoy food from:

Bella Bascino’s, Café 36, Caribou Coffee, Corner Bakery, Grapevine, Knead, La Pinta, LaBelle Catering, LaGrange Theater, Lizzard Café, Now Serving, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Roly Poly, SoTish, Thipi Thai, Trader Joe’s, Yau’s Place.

All proceeds of this event will be donated to the food pantries at
Second Baptist Church and St. Francis Xavier Church.
For additional information visit
www.lgba.com or
call Terra Incognito Studios at 708-352-1401

Thursday, November 6, 2008

$114,900--6670 S. Brainard #311 Countryside

Large and Spacious 1 bedroom 1 bath 3rd floor condo with balcony and tree line view of the Forest Preserve! Great complex offering a security building w/elevator, laundry on every floor, storage on every floor, pool in the summer and in the winter your assessments includes your heat!!
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$290,000--644 9th Ave in LaGrange

3 bedroom; 2 bath; Brick Cape Cod located blocks to grade school, train and downtown LaGrange! The current owner has made some nice improvements with 6 panel doors, updated 2nd floor bath, Family room with access to two-tier deck, freshly painted and attached 2 car Garage.
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$95,900-- 6600 S. Brainard #101, Countryside IL

Nicely updated 1 bedroom 1 bath condo in LaGrange area location!! Security building, laundry on every floor, storage on every floor, semi end unit, Assessments includes heat!! A nice pool in the summer and views of the Forest preserve from Living room and Bedroom! Great Value!!
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$279,900-- 614 6th Ave in LaGrange

Solid and well cared for 3 bedroom 1 1/2 bath brick raised ranch located 7 blocks to down town LaGrange, train and 1 blcok to Elementary school! Roof 2 years old; furnace andcentral air 12 years; bay window, all double hung windows offer tilt in easy clean...tons of storage and 2 1/2 car garage with more storage!! A Great Buy!!
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$1650mo 11S465 Rachael, Hinsdale (Emerald Ridge)

Rental: 2 story townhouse with 2-car attached garage and 1 guest parking spot right next to unit! Lower level family room with full bath, two bedrooms on the 2nd floor with large loft!! Easy access to Route 83, I55, shopping and so much more! $1650 per month...pets will be considered with pet deposit.
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Friday, October 31, 2008

Falcon 5K Run/Walk & Kids Relay Nov 8th

St. Francis in LaGrange will hold its annual 5K run on Saturday, November 8th from 8:00 - 10:30 a.m. The entry fee for adults is $30 (after October 31st). The entry fee for kids 18 and under is $20 for the 5K Run/Walk and for the Kids Relay. There is no online or race day registration available for the Kids Relay. Register at or before pre-race day packet pick-up. One form per participant, please. Download additional forms at www.sfx-lg.org. Online registration is until November 6, 2008 for the 5K Run/Walk events only at www.signmeup.com. Check-In/Registration will begin at 7:00 am.

Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs Are Still Available at laGrange parks Village Hall

Courtesy of the Clean Air Counts program, the Village of LaGrange Park still has a small supply of free Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs) for La Grange Park residents. They are available for distribution at a rate of five per household on a first-come first serve basis. Residents can stop by during normal business hours to pick up their CFL bulbs. In order to reap the full environmental benefit of these bulbs, they should be disposed of properly as they contain mercury. Conveniently, La Grange Park residents can take their expired CFLs to Ace Hardware on 31st Street for recycling.

Daylight Savings Time Reminder

Just as a reminder, Daylight Savings Time ends this Sunday at 2:00 a.m. and residents should adjust their clocks to "fall back" one hour at that time. As usual, the Fire Department also encourages everyone to change the batteries in their smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors when they change the clocks. This year, while you have the ladder out, we encourage residents to "change a bulb" when you change the clocks and batteries. Replacing even one conventional light bulb with an energy-efficient bulb in a ceiling fixture can save $30 per year per bulb on your electricity bill, not to mention the significant energy savings that you will help create. Energy efficient lighting is particularly important in the fall when Daylight Saving Time ends and the days are shorter. The latest generation of energy-saving lighting includes compact fluorescent bulbs that fit in standard light sockets and provide pleasant, uniform light.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Bike Auction

On Saturday November 1, the La Grange Park Police Department will hold a Bicycle Auction. Approximately 25 bicycles will be available for purchase. Some are in excellent condition, while others will require some repairs. In addition to the bicycles, some power tools and Christmas decorations will be available for bidding this year. The items are available for viewing at 8:30 a.m. and the auction will begin promptly at 9:00 a.m.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Parent Information Night at Park Junior High

Parents and guardians are invited to attend the District 102’s first Information Night. This informative event will be conducted by members of the District 102 Enrichment Team and will be held in the Park Junior High Auditorium at 7PM on Monday, October 27, 2008. The focus of this night will be "Differentiation & Flexible Grouping", specifically addressing high ability students. For more information, call 708-482-2400.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Community Park District of La Grange Park Halloween Costume Party

This exciting and FREE event takes place on Friday, October 24, 2008 from 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm. The fun is for kids eight years and under, accompanied by an adult. Put on your costumes and enjoy a night of eerie fun at the Recreation Center. Show will start at 6:30 featuring "Wacky Dracula". Refreshments and games will then start at 7:15 pm. At 8:00, mount your brooms and head home. Happy Halloween!

Monday, October 20, 2008

City of Countryside's Fall Newsletter

There are lots of new and exciting things happening in Countryside!!
Click on the link below to find out about new restaurants coming to town, city improvements, activites, where to vote early and on election day and much so more!!!

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Year to date 2008 Real Estate Market Statistics!!

The links below will give you market statistics for Single Family Homes for most of Chicagolands cities/towns.
Statistics provided by:
MAINSTREET ORGANIZATION OF REALTORS



Disclaimer:
Statistics provided using data from Multiple Listing Service of Northern Illinois.
The Association makes no claim as to the accuracy of this data and has provided this data as a service to our members.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Nazareth Homecoming and Parade – October 18th

Nazareth Academy will hold its homecoming on Saturday, October 18, 2008. The parade will be held on Saturday morning beginning at 10:00 a.m. The route is as follows:
• Leave Nazareth’s front entrance and travel east on Ogden
• Turn left at Dover and head north
• Turn right on Woodlawn and head east
• Turn left on Waiola and go north
• Turn left on Harding and go west
• At stop sign at the curve go to Edgewood (south)
• Turn right on Ogden and return to Nazareth.
The sophomore game will begin at 11:00 a.m. and the Varsity game is scheduled to begin at 1:30 p.m.

Fall Festival at Memorial Park on October 18th!

Mark your calendars for the first La Grange Park Fall festival at Memorial Park. There is something fun to do for every age group at this community celebration.
The festival takes place from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday.

The Carnival takes place on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.
Schedule of Events
11:00 a.m. Cake Cutting Ceremony at the Band Shell – Celebrate and kick-off the festival with the Village President, Jim Discipio and the Village Board. There is plenty of cake for all! Don’t miss this delicious treat custom baked by Tasty Tidbits of La Grange Park.
11:15 a.m. Ohana Dance Troop of Chicago at the Band Shell - Ohana means family and the dancers invite you to experience the "halau" as a way to open up the festival and share in the art of Polynesian dancing.
11:30 a.m. Sonic Fuzz at the Main Stage – Rock with the young band from La Grange Park, influenced by mainstream rock like the Beastie Boys, Nine Inch Nails and the Who.
12:00 p.m. Samahang Kapatid at the Band Shell – Experience the dance of this Filipino-American Youth Group (nonprofit) organization formed to preserve and promote the Philippine cultural heritage through folk dancing, music, language and songs. Based in the western suburbs of Chicago area, its goal is to foster awareness and appreciation of the Philippine culture by performing at community sponsored events.
12:30 p.m. Three Finger Fencl at the Main Stage – This band’s music spans several decades and includes selections from artists such as Led Zeppelin, Foo Fighters, Dave Matthews, and John Mayer. With over 20 years of collective musical experience, each member has their own individual style and provides an energetic edge to live entertainment.
1:00 p.m. Scary Story Telling at the Band Shell – This first session is for the little ones (ages 6 and under). Join Debra Holmes, Assistant Children's Librarian, La Grange Park Library, for some fun tales in anticipation of the Halloween season.
1:30 p.m. Mother was Right at the Main Stage – Seasoned veterans of the music scene with years of experience performing at area venues such as The Taste of Chicago, Naperville Rib Fest, Eyes To The Skies Festival, Walter Payton's Roundhouse, Empress Casino and WGN's Morning Show. Cover material includes: No Doubt, Nora Jones, Pink, Melissa Etheridge, Maroon 5, Blondie, and Alanis Morrisette.
2:00 p.m. LTHS Latino Dance Troupe at the Band Shell - Explore the Hispanic culture through dance. The Latino Dance Troupe performs in school and community events. Staff member Aurora Colon is the Advisor to this program.
2:30 p.m. Hooked on Sonics at the Main Stage – This headlining band has a sense of humor and knows how to have a seriously good time! Injecting life and intense delivery into dance party classics from the 60's through today, they keep the songs coming one after another, and have perfected a sound that your ears won't believe. Cover work includes: Outkast, Van Morrison, David Bowie and Sir Mix A Lot.
3:15 p.m. Scary Story Telling at the Band Shell – For the older kids (ages 7 and older). Join Debra Holmes, Assistant Children's Librarian, La Grange Park Library, for some chilling (and sometimes fun) tales in anticipation of the Halloween season.

Festival Activities (from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
• Bean Bags – Open play for family fun or tournament play!
• Food, Hot Beverages and Harvest Brew Beer
• Pumpkin Carving and Scarecrow Building
• Face Painting and Children’s Games
• Climbing Wall
• Crafts and local Vendor Sales – shop for seasonal gifts!
• Dodgeball Tournament – For the young…and for the more experienced. Waiver is required to participate. There are two ways of play at the Fall festival:
o Open Play, Ages 7-14 - No pre-registration required. Must be present at 11 am at the skate rinks. There is no fee required. Participants will receive demonstration of play and rules.
o Organized Competition, Ages 15 and Up - Must be present at 11 am at the skate rinks to register your team of six (6). Teams of three (3) are welcomed and will be paired up with another threesome to complete the team. A fee of $5 per individual or $30 per (6 person) team is due at the time of competition.

Monday, October 13, 2008

Federal Disaster Declaration for Cook County

This month, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced that it is providing disaster aid in the form of individual assistance for Cook County Illinois to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms and flooding during the period of September 13th of this year. Cook County residents and business owners who sustained losses can begin applying for individual assistance immediately by either registering online at www.fema.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362. The telephone number will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until further notice.

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Rain Barrels

Order your Rain Barrels Today!!
The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRDGC) once again has rain barrels available for purchase. Please click on the link below to be redirected to their site for ordering information.

http://www.mwrd.org/barrel/

CEP Youth Leadership Scholarship Fundraiser!!

Thursday October 9th!
7 – 10 p.m.
Harry’s Sports Bar and Grill
9901 W. 55th Street, Countryside, 60525
$35 covers open bar and appetizers
Proceeds support CEP Youth Leadership Scholarships for the Tutoring Program and the Junior High and High School Conferences.

For more information call: 708-579-5898.

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

LaGrange Holloween Walk!!

Saturday October 25th, 2008!
Trick or treat! The business district of LaGrange opens its doors to trick or treaters of all ages. Kids and adults dress in their favorite costumes and follow a path to candy and treats throughout town. The Hallowen Walk begins at 11:00am from the Cossitt School Playground

go to www.lgba.com for route map and more information!

Sunday, October 5, 2008

LaGrange Parks Final Brush Pickup of the Year

As a reminder, the Village’s final brush pickup for the year will take place during the entire week of October 6-10. Please remember to have all brush to the curb by early morning, October 6th.

Thursday, October 2, 2008

Countryside presents Harvest Fest!

Fall days are here and the perfect place to celebrate is at Countryside's Harvest Fest! Don't miss it this Saturday, Oct. 4! Harvest Fest is part of Countryside's annual Road to Route 66 special events.Don't let this one past you by; bring all your family and friends out to Countryside Park for a free day of fun. There will be so much to do! Pick up a pumpkin or take a fun hay ride. Then, move on to the carnival games where endless fun awaits!Want to show off your scarecrow making skills? Well you're in luck, because you and your friends will be able to dress up a scarecrow in a friendly competition. Make sure to bring some clothes and accessories to put on your scarecrow and we will provide the hay! To top it all off, there will be an awesome costume contest. Now you don't have to wait until Oct. 31 to show off your Halloween attire.All this and more will be at this year's Harvest Fest, so don't miss it!

Date: Saturday, Oct. 4
Time: Noon until 5 p.m.
Place: Countryside Park
Located at 61st Street, 1/2 block east of Brainard Avenue


Fest Schedule
12 - 1 p.m. Pumpkin Painting
12 - 4:45 Guess the pumpkin's weight
12:30 - 12:45 Flying High Performance
12:50 p.m. Mayor's Welcome
1 - 3 p.m. Carnival Games
1 - 3 p.m. Home Depot craft projects
1 - 3 p.m. Scarecrow Bingo
1:30 - 4:30 Hay rides
1:30 - 4:30 Pony rides
2 - 4 p.m. Face painters
3 - 4:30 p.m. Scarecrow making contest
4 - 5 p.m.Pumpkin Painting
4:20 p.m. Costume Contest
4:45 p.m. Scarecrow Parade

Throughout the day: Pumpkin Patch, Moon Jump, DJ, Food, Games and Much More!
Sponsors: Vulcan Materials, Suburban Life, Cardinal Fitness, Lyons Township, AT&T
Visit gocountryside.net for more information!

Cook County Property Tax Bills Are Due November 3

COUNTY TREASURER OCTOBER 1, 2008
Pay Online at cookcountytreasurer.com
Property tax bills for the second installment of tax year 2007 being mailed to property owners are due November 3, 2008, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas said today.
Effective October 1, owners of Cook County’s 1.7 million homes and other parcels of property can pay electronically from a checking or savings account at cookcountytreasurer.com, Pappas said.
Pappas advised owners to have their 14-digit Property Index Number available when they make on-line payments.
Owners should write the PIN on payment checks and need the bill and stub in making other forms of payment:
In person, at more than 300 Chase Bank locations, including at 68 Dominick’s stores.
In person, by direct debit at 217 participating community banks.
By return mail, postmarked no later than November 3, 2008.

Monday, September 29, 2008

LaGrange Parks Final Brush Pick up of the Year

As a reminder, the Village’s final brush pickup for the year will take place during the entire week of October 6-10. Please remember to have all brush to the curb by early morning, October 6th.

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Village of LaGrange CodeRED Emergency Services and Disaster Planning-Community Notification System...

On February 25th, 2008, the Village Board approved a contract with CodeRED to upgrade the Emergency Services and Disaster Planning-Community Notification System…

In layman’s terms please:

The new CodeRED system gives the Village officials the ability to deliver pre-recorded emergency telephone notifications at a rate of 60,000 per hour. It’s a tremendous way to keep the residents and business owners in LaGrange safe during an emergency…

YOU NEED TO GO TO THE WEBSITE AND REGISTER YOUR NUMBER. You certainly DO NOT want to be left out when an emergency phone call is made!!!

Go to
www.villageoflagrange.com and follow the link to the “CodeRED Residential and Business Date Collection” page.

OR

Follow this link
https://login.coderedweb.com/codereddataentry/index.cfm?groupid=1559


Thanks to the LaGrange Police Department and the Village for working so hard to keep us out of harm’s way!

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Cardinal Fitness to host Health Fair

You are invited to Countryside's Cardinal Fitness second annual health fair! The event is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 20 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Just because summer is over that doesn't mean looking good and feeling great should be a thing of the past as well.You won't want to miss this event or this fantastic offer. At the fair, guests can join Cardinal Fitness for only $20! The day also will include raffles for great prizes, food, a blood drive, health tips, demonstrations and samples. Don't miss this exciting event, see you there!
What: Cardinal Fitness Second Annual Health Fair CelebrationDate: Saturday, Sept. 20Time: 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.Location:
Cardinal Fitness, 9825 W. 55th St., Countryside

Saturday, September 13, 2008

Get Ready! - La Grange Park Clean Up Day – Thursday, September 25, 2008

Single-family residences in La Grange Park will receive a one-time clean up service on the regularly scheduled collection day. Clean Up Day cannot be rescheduled so don’t miss out! 4 REFUSE STICKERS ARE REQUIRED TO PARTICIPATE (four stickers in total will insure that all of the acceptable items 2 placed on the curb will be picked up). If you choose not to participate, your trash will be handled as a regular pick up. Acceptable items must be placed next to your regular refuse on the curb by 6AM. Items other than furniture, large bulk items and appliances must be placed in bags, cans and/or boxes, not larger than 35 gallons or heavier than 50 pounds each. If you have questions, please contact the Village of LaGrange Park at 354-0225. For a list of Acceptable Items, see our homepage at: www.lagrangepark.org

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Illinois Child Identification Program

On October 4th, 2008 from 10:00am to 2:00pm at the Pleasantview Fire Station during the fire safety days (1970 Plainfield Road, LaGrange Highlands) there will be an Illinois Child Identification program. The program is free of charge and all information is retained only by the parents.

If you have any questions please call Bob Anselmo at 630.776.0908

Monday, September 8, 2008

FHFA/Treasurey in Historic Takeover of Fannie and Freddie Mac

NEWS YOU CAN USE FROM THE DESK OF:
JEFF SLATER BancGroup Mortgage

On Sunday morning the new GSE regulatory agency placed Congressionally chartered mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac into separate conservatorships, with the government committing $100 billion to each, while removing their CEOs, and laying the groundwork for a radical and historic restructuring of the entire U.S. mortgage market.As part of the GSE restructuring plan, the Treasury Department is providing capital and funding support in an effort to boost investor confidence in Fannie and Freddie's $5.2 trillion worth of debt and mortgage-backed securities. "Monday morning the businesses will open just as usual, only with stronger backing for the holders of MBS, senior debt and subordinated debt," Federal Housing Finance Agency director James Lockhart said.
The Treasury has committed to purchase new Fannie and Freddie MBS, a move that will add liquidity to the mortgage bond market. It will purchase $5 billion worth of agency MBS in September alone. The FHFA dismissed Fannie CEO Daniel Mudd and Freddie chairman and CEO Richard Syron. The two men will remain on in transition roles. Herb Allison, a former vice chairman at Merrill Lynch, was named CEO of Fannie, and David Moffet, former vice chairman of U.S. Bancorp will lead Freddie.
The new CEOs will be charged with examining Fannie and Freddie's "guarantee fee structure with an eye toward mortgage affordability," Treasury secretary Henry Paulson said. "The primary mission of these enterprises now will be to increase the
availability of mortgage finance," he said. The FHFA director placed the GSEs in conservatorships due to their ailing financial condition and their deteriorating ability to support the mortgage market. Secretary Paulson made conservatorship a prerequisite for
providing the two GSEs with quarterly capital infusions to ensure they maintain a positive net worth. "I support the director's decision as necessary and appropriate and had advised him that conservatorship was the only form in which I would commit taxpayer money to the GSEs," Mr. Paulson told reporters Sunday morning.
In agreeing to a conservatorship, the GSEs each issued $1 billion in senior preferred stock to Treasury. With each capital infusion, Treasury will accumulate more preferred stock. Treasury also will be issued warrants that give the agency the right to purchase 79.9% of the common shares in each GSE. Meanwhile, the government sponsored enterprises can increase their MBS purchases by about $100 billion each. But the investment portfolios are capped at $850 billion through 2009. The senior preferred stock covenants also require the GSEs to reduce their portfolios by 10% a year starting in 2010 until the portfolios reach $250 billion. The new conservatorships will not pay dividends on common or preferred stock. The Treasury secretary advised banks and thrifts with large exposures to GSE common and preferred shares to work with their regulators in developing a capital restoration plan.
Jeff Slater--BancGroup Mortgage
708-430-0300 OFFICE 708-906-4186 CELL
10400 S ROBERTS RD, PALOS HILLS, IL 60465
AN ILLINOIS RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE LICENSEE

September is National Preparedness Month!

For the month of September, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is encouraging families across the country to take four important preparedness steps.

  1. Get a Kit - When preparing for a possible emergency situation, it's best to think first about the basics of survival: fresh water, food, clean air and warmth. Recommended Items to Include:
    ô€€¹ Water - one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
    ô€€¹ Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
    ô€€¹ Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
    ô€€¹ Flashlight and extra batteries
    ô€€¹ First aid kit

    ô€€¹ Whistle to signal for help
    ô€€¹ Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
    ô€€¹ Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
    ô€€¹ Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
    ô€€¹ Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
    ô€€¹ Local maps
  2. Make a Plan - Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to plan in advance: how you will contact one another; how you will get back together; and what you will do in different situations.
  3. Be Informed - Being informed about the different types of emergencies that could happen where you live and the appropriate ways to respond to them will impact the decisions you make and the actions you take. Get Involved - After preparing yourself and your family for possible emergencies, take the next step and get involved in preparing your community. Learn more about Citizen Corps, which actively involves citizens in making our communities and our nation safer and better prepared. Visit: www.citizencorps.gov.

Thursday, September 4, 2008

LaGrange Garage Sale Fundraiser

GARAGE SALE!!!!

Saturday, September 13, 2008

32 Poplar Pl., LaGrange, IL

8:00am – 2:00pm

SHOP FOR A CAUSE

A percentage of the proceeds will be donated to

http://www.vasculitisfoundation.org/

Items for sale include designer baby/kids clothes/shoes, brand new baby bedding, high chair, strollers, luggage, furniture, small appliances, computer monitors, toys, books, collectibles, handbags, books, household items,

… and much, much more!

Click on the clink below for Alicia and Brians Search for a Diagnosis
http://www.cssassociation.org/box-4.asp

Sunday, August 31, 2008

New 0% Home Repair Loans Available

The West Suburban Preservation Agency (WSNPA) has been awarded $1,300,000 to do Single Family
Rehabilitation. This is a 0% interest deferred loan of up to $50,000 with no monthly payments as long as the
homeowner lives in and retains title to the home. The WSNPA office will determine the amount of
assistance for which the applicant is eligible. These loans are part of the Cook County Community
Development Block Grant Program and HOME Investment Partnerships Program, which are funded by the
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. To qualify for this program you must:

• Reside in the Cook County portion of one of the following municipalities: Bellwood, Berkley,
Bridgeview, Broadview, Brookfield, Hillside, Chicago Ridge, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Hometown, La
Grange, La Grange Park, Lyons, Maywood, Melrose Park, Northlake, Schiller Park, Stone Park, and
Summit.
• Own and live in the home you wish to repair.
• Do not have the money to pay for the needed repairs.
• Have a total family income (before deductions) that is not higher than the amounts listed in the following
table:


Number of Persons in Maximum Gross
Household Income

1 42,200

2 48,250

3 54,250

4 60,300

5 65,100

6 9,950

7 74,750

8+ 79,600


The following are examples of eligible activities: Roofing, Doors and Windows, Electrical, Plumbing, Heating,
Weatherization, and handicap accessible conversions. Every loan application will be considered and homes will be
inspected by an inspector of West Suburban Neighborhood Preservation Agency. If you qualify you will be
assisted with the entire rehabilitation process by WSNPA staff. If you feel you may qualify, please call or
write to:

West Suburban Neighborhood Preservation Agency

900 N. 25th Avenue, Suite 201

Melrose Park, Illinois 60160

Phone: 708-410-2300

FAX: 708-410-2646

Friday, August 29, 2008

Cook County 2nd Installment Tax Bill

News From Cook County Treasuer Website Concerning 2nd Installment 07' Taxes

2nd Installment Due Date - We anticipate a due date of November 3, 2008,

for 2nd Installment property tax bills for Tax Year 2007. We have not yet

received final figures to print the bills. When we do, we will make a public

announcement that will be posted on this Web site.

http://www.cookcountytreasurer.com/

Chair-ity Auction in LaGrange!!!

LESS THAN ONE WEEK AWAY from the Chair-ity Auction. Final reminder will be next week. It’s going to be a great event. If you’re uncertain about which chair you want, you can preview them the day of the auction as they’ll be lined up down LaGrange Road in front of Horton’s and Roly Poly….BE THERE! You can still go to the website at www.lgba.com if you’re antsy to see them!!!

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Interest Rate Update

Prepared Exclusively For Katrina Ladyga.
DATE:
08/26/08
Jeffrey Slater (708)906-4186
OFFICE:
(708) 430-0300
BancGroup MORTGAGE CORP.
DIRECT:
(708) 906-4186
DAILY RATE SHEET AND MARKET COMMENTARY
CONV. FIXED
30 YR
6.375%
20 YR
6.375%
15 YR
6.000%
10 YR
5.875%
CONV. ARMS
3/1
6.000%
5/1
6.125%
7/1
6.375%
5/25
N/A
7/23
N/A
JUMBO ARMS
5/1
5.750%
7/1
6.250%
GOV. FIXED
CONFORMING LOAN LIMITS
30 YR
6.500%
$417,000
-
1 UNIT
$533,850
-
2 UNIT
GOV. ARM
$645,300
-
3 UNIT
1 YR
6.250%
$801,950
-
4 UNIT
3/1
6.500%
97% LTV
FHA LOAN LIMITS - NEW
3/1
N/A
$410,000
-
1 UNIT
5/1
N/A
$524,850
-
2 UNIT
30 YR
6.750%
$634,450
-
3 UNIT
$788,450
-
4 UNIT
MARKET COMMENTARY:
Rates are near unchanged today as bond prices are slightly lower erasing some of the gains from the past couple of days. Oil prices continue to moderate as economies across the globe appear to stumble. Consumer confidence and new home sales both rose. However, the market has had little reaction to this news. CONSUMERS WITH CREDIT SCORES BELOW 720 WILL BE PENALIZED ON MOST LOANS.
EVENT CALENDAR:
08/27/08: Durable Goods Orders
08/28/08: Preliminary Q2 GDP
CLOSING COST ESTIMATE: $325 (application fee) $250 (underwriting fee)
$250 (funding fee) $75 (tax service) & $1,000 (est. title expense) TOTAL: $1,900 (est.)
An Illinois Residential Mortgage Licensee.
Intended for realtor/wholesale lender use only - rates subject to change without notice - all rates for 45 day lock/720 Min. credit score & 80% LTV/90% CLTV for Conv. Loans.
10400 S. ROBERTS RD., PALOS HILLS, IL 60465
Now Open! Visit Hacienda Cocula

Countryside's newest Mexican restaurant is now open! Get ready to treat your taste buds to a fiesta.Hacienda Cocula, a family-owned restaurant serving authentic Mexican cuisine since 1976, just opened its sixth location in Countryside.Hacienda Cocula is located at 5452 S. LaGrange Road in Countryside. Hours are 8 to 12 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and 8 to 2 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Hungry for a bite? Hacienda Cocula offers a variety of Mexican fare from tacos and burritos to tostadas and tortas. Or stop in for a drink! Hacienda Cocula is now producing its own tequila from Mexico.Stop in and visit Countryside's newest restaurant and tell them gocountryside.net sent you!Other dining locations include three Chicago locations, Cicero and Calumet City.
NEWS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 26, 2008
For Information, Contact:
Chief Timothy Swanson
708/352-2171
police@countrysidepolice.org
Countryside Police Department Launches Intensive Crackdown on
Impaired Driving
COUNTRYSIDE, Ill. - The Countryside Police Department announced today it will be conducting
special patrols this Labor Day holiday cracking down on impaired drivers.
“All too often, innocent law-abiding people suffer tragic consequences and the loss of loved ones due
to this careless disregard for human life. Because we are committed to ending the carnage, we are
intensifying enforcement during the crackdown. We will be especially vigilant during high-risk
nighttime hours when impaired drivers are most likely to be on our roads,” said Chief Swanson. “If
you plan on drinking alcohol, designate a sober driver before the party begins. Be responsible or risk a
DUI.”
“Our message is simple and unwavering. If we find you driving impaired, we will arrest you. No
exceptions,” said Chief Swanson. “Even if you beat the odds and walk away from an impaired driving
crash alive, motorists should be aware that the consequences of driving while impaired can still
virtually destroy your life.”
According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates, in Illinois in 2006, 594
people died in crashes involving alcohol (at least one driver involved had a BAC of 0.01 or higher),
representing 47 percent of all motor vehicle crash fatalities.
According to IDOT data, during the Labor Day weekend last year in Illinois, 20 people lost their lives
in motor vehicle crashes. Seven of those deaths involved a drinking driver.
Chief Swanson said that always designating a sober driver and not letting friends drive impaired are
just two of several simple steps to help avoid a tragic crash or an arrest for impaired driving.

Thursday, June 19, 2008

Summer of Fun in Countryside

Concerts in the Park
Grab a blanket and head to the park for a fun evening of music. Hungry for a bite? A food vendor will be at all concerts. Countryside Park, the City's largest, offers an ideal setting for relaxing on a summer night, catching up with family, friends and neighbors and enjoying the free music. All concerts are held at 7 p.m. on Thursdays (rain or shine) at Countryside Park located at 61st Street, 1/2 block east of Brainard Avenue. (click for map/directions)
June 5 - Route 66: Route 66 will take you on a musical journey through the decades from nostalgic Swing to contemporary Rock'n Roll. Enjoy the best of the Beatles, Queen, Tina Turner and more - all in a fabulous four-part harmony.
Food vendor (6/5): JC Georges - Spinach pie $5.00, Beef sandwiches w/ giardiniera $6.00, Chicken cobb salad $6.00, Taffy apples $4.00, Brownies $3.00
June 12 - Johnny Russler and the Beach Bum Band: More than just a Jimmy Buffet cover band - expect to groove with the tunes from Bob Marley, Jimmy Cliff, Paul Simon and much more
Food vendor (6/12): Nonno's Pizza - Thin crust cheese slices, Thin crust sausage slices, stuffed sausage slices, stuffed spinach slices, Italian beef sandwiches, Cannoli
June 19 - New Odyssey: Three guys - thirty instruments! Outstanding arrangements of almost every style are performed on 30 different musical instruments
Food vendor (6/19): Mr.D's and Tropical Snow - Hot dog $2.50, Polish sausage $3.50, hamburger $4, ice cream novelties $1-2.50 and snow cones
June 26- The Meteors: The music of the 50s, 60s, and 70s holds a special memory for those who grew up with it - the music you can sing along with, music you can dance to and music you fell in love with.
Food vendor (6/26): Kenny's Irish Pub - Pulled Pork with chips $4.00, Hot Dogs with chips $2.00, Chips $1.00
July 3 - Banjo Buddies: Chicago's top, nationally recognized Dixieland jazz band has entertained audiences across the country with their unique, eclectic style of Dixie and music and entertainment for over two decades.
Food vendor (7/3): Nonno's Pizza - Thin crust cheese slices, Thin crust sausage slices, stuffed sausage slices, stuffed spinach slices, Italian beef sandwiches, Cannoli.
July 10 - Live Band Karaoke: Combining the silly fun of karaoke with the energy of a live rock band. Live band karaoke allows anyone to fulfill their rock and roll fantasy.
Food vendor (7/10): JC Georges - Spinach pie $5.00, Beef sandwiches w/ giardiniera $6.00, Chicken cobb salad $6.00, Taffey apples $4.00, Brownies $3.00.
July 17 - Keith Eric and the Waterhouse Band: Experience de cool runnings of Jamaican music with Keith Eric and the Waterhouse Band. Colorful costumes, exotic instruments, vibrant movements and wonderful stories all express the culture and sounds of the Caribbean.
Food vendor (7/17): Tropical Snow and Mr.D's- 81 flavors of snow cones. Small $2.00, Large $3.00, Pepsi Products $1.00; Hot dog $2.50, Polish sausage $3.50, Burger $4
July 24 - Final Say: Enjoy all your favorites from alternative, classic rock, soul, Motown, New Wave, Big Hair Rock, R & B, to the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s.
Food vendor (7/24): Ledo's Pizza - Cheese pizza slices $1.50, Sausage Pizza slices $1.50, Chocolate Chip Cookie $1.50, Cans of pop $1.00

For more information go to:
www.gocountryside.net

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