West Cook News

The Oak Park Film Festival is now accepting submissions for its upcoming event, scheduled to begin on Thursday, September 12. The festival will kick off with a celebration of Oak Park’s connection to Hollywood at The Lake Theatre (1022 Lake St.), featuring a red carpet and gala event alongside a screening of a new edition of “The Abyss.” The film stars Oak Park River Forest High School alumna Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio and Ed Harris and was written and directed by Academy Award winner James Cameron.

Western Springs invites residents to name new Peterbilt snowplow

The Village of Western Springs is inviting its residents to help name the newest Peterbilt snowplow. The snowplow, which was purchased as part of the 2024 budget, is set to begin service in the upcoming snow season.

Cook County Board approves Build Up Cook construction projects

The Cook County Board of Commissioners has approved funding for construction projects through the Build Up Cook program. These projects encompass essential water infrastructure improvements such as water main repairs, pump replacements, back up generator replacements, hydrant replacements and valve repairs. Additionally, the projects will also cater to public building facility repairs, exterior repairs and roof replacements.

Cook County approves two housing pilot programs for affordable homes

The Cook County Board of Commissioners has given the green light to two pilot programs aimed at bolstering affordable, quality housing. The Bureau of Economic Development will roll out a $3 million down payment assistance initiative and a $12 million program for the construction of single-family modular homes in needy communities. These projects will be funded by money received through the American Rescue Plan Act.

No Mow May concludes, Native Plant Sale announced

The annual No Mow May initiative concluded on May 12th, following its commencement on March 21st. The Village has resumed enforcement of maintenance requirements for tall grass and weeds, and participants are urged to cut their grass and store any No Mow May signs for future use.

Oak Park Film Festival announces submission deadlines for 2024 event

The Oak Park, Illinois Film Festival is now accepting submissions for its upcoming event, scheduled to begin on Thursday, September 12. The festival will kick off with a celebration of Oak Park’s connection to Hollywood at The Lake Theatre (1022 Lake St.), featuring a red carpet and gala event alongside a screening of a new edition of “The Abyss.” The film stars Oak Park River Forest High School alumna Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio and Ed Harris. “The Abyss” was written and directed by Academy Award winner James Cameron.

Ava Kostecki, former Lyons Township High School softball player will compete with her collegiate team for the NCAA D3 Softball Championship

Her team enters the tournament as a number two seed.

Adam Severson, former Lyons Township High School baseball player will compete with his collegiate team for the NCAA D3 Baseball Championship

They open the tournament against Benedictine Eagles.

Sam Viniard, former Lyons Township High School baseball player will compete with his collegiate team for the NCAA D3 Baseball Championship

His team enters the tournament as a number one seed.

Join the 21st annual Cop on a Rooftop fundraiser for Special Olympics Illinois

Support Special Olympics Illinois by participating in the 21st Annual Cop on a Rooftop Fundraiser, which is scheduled for May 17.

Former West Leyden High School standout Angelina Gonzalez’s collegiate team to play for NCAA D3 Softball Championship starting Thursday, May 16

Her team enters the tournament as a number three seed.

Tressa Scanlon, former Trinity High School softball player will compete with her collegiate team for the NCAA D3 Softball Championship

First game takes place on Thursday, May 16.

Tatyana Colon, former West Leyden High School softball player will compete with her collegiate team for the NCAA D3 Softball Championship

They open the tournament against Calvin Knights.

Matt Schuler, former Lyons Township High School baseball player will compete with his collegiate team for the NCAA D2 Baseball Championship

His team enters the tournament as a number three seed.

Cicero celebrates annual Mother-Son Dance with sold-out attendance

The town of Cicero celebrated the annual Mother and Son Dance on Friday, May 10, 2024, at the Cicero Community Center. The event, which was completely sold out, attracted approximately 450 attendees who enjoyed entertainment, dancing, and a special dinner.

Annual town-wide cleanup drive launched in Cicero

The Town of Cicero has initiated its annual community cleanup drive, drawing volunteers from local schools, businesses, community organizations, and various town departments. The event is coordinated each year by Town Assessor Emilio “Emo” Cundari who oversees the volunteers' efforts to pick up litter and identify areas of graffiti for targeted removal.

Riverside braces for 17-year periodical cicada emergence in spring 2024

Riverside is set to witness a natural spectacle this spring as Brood XIII, a group of 17-year periodical cicadas, emerges. This rare event, anticipated to take place from late May to early June 2024, will introduce millions of cicadas into the community, filling the air with their unique buzzing chorus.

Cicero Police honor fallen officer at Peace Officers Memorial Foundation Ceremony