2024 OP Summer Newsletter

Newsletter

A PUBLICATION FOR THE ORLAND PARK COMMUNITY Summer 2024

TREE RESOURCES FOR PROPERTY OWNERS pg. 6 TASTE OF ORLAND PARK pg. 12 CENTENNIAL PARK WEST AND SCHUSSLER PARK UPDATES pg. 8

orlandpark.org | Summer 2024 |

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LETTER FROM THE MAYOR

Dear Orland Park Residents, It’s summertime in Orland Park and it is great to see everyone out enjoying all Orland Park has to offer. It is my favorite time of the year when Orland Park’s facilities and parks are full of families and events are in full swing. Within this issue of the Village of Orland Park Newsletter you will find information about upcoming events, programs and projects in Orland Park. We hope that you find it useful and informative. The Village recently celebrated Centennial Park West’s grand opening and Schussler Park’s re-opening. Centennial Park West is a premiere entertainment venue which features a permanent stage and many other improvements. Schussler Park now features two full sized turf fields at the Michael Schofield III Sports Complex. I would like to thank the Kendall and Michael Schofield Family Foundation for their contributions and the sports organizations for their input on this project. I am excited to welcome residents from Orland Park and visitors from the surrounding communities to these new facilities. For more information on these updates, please look to pages 8-9. Thank you to those who joined us on Memorial Day as we remembered and honored military members who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. The Orland Park community faithfully comes out in support of our area veterans, and I am humbled every time I speak at this event. The Village’s annual Fourth of July celebration kicked off with the annual Veterans Liberty Run & Walk on July 3. It continued with a concert featuring 90s band, How Rude, and musical fireworks display at Centennial Park West on July 4. Thank you to everyone that come out to support our Veterans at the Veterans Liberty Run & Walk. The 21st Anniversary Taste of Orland Park will move to the new Centennial Park West on August 2-4. The highlight of the year brings local restaurants, vendors, live entertainment and more to Orland Park. Centennial Park West was designed with this premiere event in mind and the new venue will make the 2024 Taste of Orland Park the best yet. The 2024 Orland Park Veterans Golf Classic will be on August 27. This event will benefit the Orland Park Veterans Commission and area Veterans and military groups. More information can be found on page 23. Previously this was called the Mayor’s Golf Outing and it was my privilege to change the event’s focus to our Veterans. I hope to see you there. Centennial Park Aquatic Center is open for the season and is the perfect place to escape the summer heat. See page 14 for more information. Market at the Park has also made the move to Centennial Park West on Thursday nights from 4-8 p.m. Visit the Market for a variety of vendors and free weekly entertainment. In addition, we have many concerts, movies, and events this summer in Orland Park. Visit orlandpark.org/events for a complete list of upcoming special events. Lastly, thank you to the Orland Park Police Department and you, the residents of Orland Park, for staying vigilant and keeping Orland Park safe. Always remember that if you SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING and give us a call at (708) 349 4111 for non-emergencies or 9-1-1 in the event of an emergency. Thank you again for your part in keeping Orland Park one of the safest towns in Illinois. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone around town during the rest of this summer! Sincerely, Keith Pekau Mayor of Orland Park

Upcoming Village Events Police & Public Safety TABLE OF CONTENTS

Pictured (L to R): Trustee Brian J. Riordan, Trustee William R. Healy, Trustee Joni J. Radaszewski, Village Clerk Patrick R. O’Sullivan, Mayor Keith Pekau, Trustee Cynthia Nelson Katsenes, Trustee Michael R. Milani, Trustee Sean Kampas.

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Keith Pekau Mayor

Patrick O’Sullivan Village Clerk

Tree Resources Park Updates Summer Events

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Taste of Orland Park

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Brian J. Riordan Trustee William R. Healy Trustee Joni J. Radaszewski Trustee

Cynthia Nelson Katsenes Trustee Michael R. Milani Trustee Sean Kampas Trustee

Around Town

Community Pride

Welcome to Orland Park

Veterans

Heritage Sites

Fitness

George Koczwara Village Manager

Jim Culotta Assistant Village Manager

BOARD MEETINGS

August 5 August 19 September 2

September 16 October 7 October 14

| Summer 2024 | orlandpark.org

orlandpark.org | Summer 2024 |

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FOLLOW THE VILLAGE ON SOCIAL MEDIA TO STAY INFORMED Scan using the camera on your phone!

2024

Calendar of Events

Facebook Events, fun highlights of the community and important information are featured on our page. Give us a “follow” to stay up-to-date on all that’s happening.

Board of Trustees Meeting Monday, July 15, 7 p.m. @ Orland Park Village Hall 14700 S. Ravinia Ave. Market at the Park Thursday, July 18, 4 - 8 p.m. @ Centennial Park West 15609 Park Station Blvd. Christmas in July’s Outdoor Movie Series: Elf Monday, July 22 at dusk @ Centennial Park West 15609 Park Station Blvd. Cook-Out With Cops Tuesday, July 23, 4 - 7 p.m. @ Evergreen View Park 8610 141st St. Market at the Park Thursday, July 25, 4 - 8 p.m. @ Centennial Park West 15609 Park Station Blvd. Board of Trustees Meeting Monday, August 5, 7 p.m. @ Orland Park Village Hall 14700 S. Ravinia Ave. National Night Out Tuesday, August 6, 5 - 9 p.m. @ Orland Park Village Center 14700 S. Ravinia Ave.

Board of Trustees Meeting Monday, August 19, 7 p.m. @ Orland Park Village Hall 14700 S. Ravinia Ave. Market at the Park Thursday, August 22, 4 - 8 p.m.

Instagram Capturing fun and lighthearted sights around Orland Park, as well as keeping the community up-to-date on Village happenings is what you’ll find on our feed.

Market at the Park Thursday, August 8, 4 - 8 p.m. @ Centennial Park West 15609 Park Station Blvd. Outdoor Movie Series: Minions – The Rise of Gru Monday, August 12 at dusk @ Centennial Park West 15609 Park Station Blvd. Market at the Park Thursday, August 15, 4 - 8 p.m. August 2, 5 - 11 p.m. August 3, 3 - 11 p.m. August 4, 3 - 9 p.m. @ Centennial Park West 15609 Park Station Blvd.

@ Centennial Park West 15609 Park Station Blvd.

Orland Heritage Fundraiser Saturday, August 24, 1 - 4 p.m.

@ John Humphrey House 9830 West 144th Place

X Receive timely posts about events, traffic, public announcements and more.

Veterans Golf Outing Tuesday, August 27, 8:30 a.m. @ Silver Lake Country Club 14700 S. 82nd Ave. Board of Trustees Meeting Tuesday, September 3, 7 p.m. @ Orland Park Village Hall 14700 S. Ravinia Ave. Board of Trustees Meeting Monday, September 16, 7 p.m. @ Orland Park Village Hall 14700 S. Ravinia Ave. The Great Pumpkin Party Saturday, October 5, 10 a.m. @ Centennial Park 15600 West Ave. at Fun Drive

YouTube Check out the many videos featuring local events, cable programs and updates from the Mayor. Catch our board meetings and events LIVE and be sure to subscribe to be notified when we go live.

@ Centennial Park West 15609 Park Station Blvd.

Centennial Park West Concert Series: One Vision of Queen featuring Marc Martel Saturday, August 17, 4 - 10 p.m.

Water Billing................................................... (708) 403-6175 Register for Programs....................................... (708) 403-5000 Non-Emergency Police .................................... (708) 349-4111 Mayor’s Office................................................ (708) 403-6160 General Information........................................ (708) 403-6100 Have Questions?

@ Centennial Park West 15609 Park Station Blvd.

| Summer 2024 | orlandpark.org

orlandpark.org | Summer 2024 |

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POLICE & PUBLIC SAFETY

POLICE & PUBLIC SAFETY

Special Olympics Torch Run The Orland Park Police Department participated in the Law Enforcement Torch Run on June 4. The officers received the torch from the Tinley Park Police Department participants and ran it to the Orland Hills Police Department. The Law Enforcement Torch Run is the single largest year-round fundraising movement benefiting Special Olympics Illinois. Orland Park’s police staff participates each year to raise funds and to increase awareness for the athletes who participate in Special Olympics Illinois. Cop on a Rooftop On May 17, the Orland Park Police Department participated in their annual Cop on a Rooftop event. Orland Park Dunkin’ locations raised over $11,900 for Special Olympics Illinois. Thank you to everyone who stopped by to show support! POLICE DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS

100 CLUB VEHICLE DONATION

On June 13, the Orland Park Police Department, alongside Mayor Keith Pekau and Trustee Sean Kampas, donated a retired police vehicle to 100 Club of Illinois, represented by their CEO, Caitlyn Brennan. The donated vehicle is a symbol of OPPD’s gratitude for the work the 100 Club does in Illinois and will assist with the many programs that they offer.

In attendance were OPPD Senior Secretary Jamie Fahey and OPPD Officer Brendan Tinoco, both children of fallen officers, who have benefited from the support that the 100 Club provides, as well as K9 Leo, who has gone above and beyond supporting the 100 Club and the families and officers they represent. The 100 Club of Illinois is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides support to the families of first responders killed in the line of duty and supports active-duty first responders throughout Illinois. They provide resources, financial support, access to training, and moral support. All sworn federal, state, county, and local first responders stationed in Illinois are included.

Police Firing Range & Emergency Operations Center

On June 28, The Village and OPPD broke ground for its new 15,400-square-foot Firing Range and EOC Facility, located at 10609 163rd Place. The new facility will be the Village’s Emergency Operations Center and includes a firearms training site and a simulator room for live-fire training, with garage doors to allow vehicles to enter the building.

| Summer 2024 | orlandpark.org

orlandpark.org | Summer 2024 |

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TREE RESOURCES

TREE RESOURCES FOR PROPERTY OWNERS TREE RESOURCES Per the Village’s Municipal Code (3-6), residents of the Village of Orland Park are responsible for maintenance of trees in the right-of-way. This includes pruning branches so that they do not obstruct the view of any street intersection and so that there is clear space, free of obstructions, eight feet above the surface of the sidewalk and 13 feet above the street. As such, the Village has established the following tree resources to educate property owners in proper tree maintenance, as well as aid residents in finding affordable and quality tree maintenance options.

Disposing of yard waste with Waste Management Waste Management offers yard waste pickup in the Village of Orland Park from April 1 through the second full week of December. Residents can utilize this service to dispose of tree branches, weeds, leaves, and other green materials. All yard waste must be placed at the curb no later than 6 a.m. on the day of service and must follow these pick-up guidelines:

In the coming weeks, Public Works Staff will be working around the Village looking at sites and providing notices to those with trees not up to code.

• Must be separate from garbage and recycling. • Must be placed in a biodegradable paper yard waste bag available at local retail stores or in a CLEARLY identified container that is no greater than 35-gallons and weighs no more than 50 pounds. • ALL reusable containers for green waste must be labeled “Yard Waste Only.” Container labels can be obtained from Waste Management for no charge. Waste may not include sod, dirt, boulders and rocks.

PRE-QUALIFIED TREE COMPANIES The following is a list of pre-qualified contractors used by the Village of Orland Park for tree maintenance services. These companies are only a recommendation for residents to use for tree maintenance services. Residents may use a different tree contractor, but it is recommended that the chosen contractor have a Certified Arborist(s) on staff. All tree contractors must be registered with the Development Services Department to perform work in the Village of Orland Park. Visit orlandpark. org/development services for more information. Smitty’s Tree Service, Inc. 12736 S. Ridgeway, Alsip, IL 60803 (708) 385-2814, smittystreechicago@gmail.com The Davey Tree Expert Co. 9650 194th St, Mokena, IL 60448 (708) 460-555, marcus.parker@davey.com Winkler’s Tree Services, Inc. 114 N. Mannheim Road, Bellwood, IL 60104 (708) 544-1219, customerservice@winklerstreeservices.com Homer Tree Care, Inc 14000 S. Archer Ave, Lockport, IL 60441 (815) 838-0320, RyanCountryman@homertree.com V3 Companies 7325 Janes Avenue, Woodridge, IL 60517 (630) 729-622, bmillis@v3co.com Mid America Tree & Landscape, Inc. 9909 W 187th Street; PO Box 347, Mokena, IL 60448 (708) 906-0933, midam347@gmail.com

• Brush and branches must be: contained, bagged, bundled or tied. All pieces must be cut into 4-foot lengths or less. Branches should be less than 2 1/2” in diameter.

Tree Maintenance Pruning is done for a variety of reasons, and is aimed at improving structure and safety, or for controlling size. Proper pruning includes removal of diseased, dying or dead branches, crossing or rubbing branches, branches with thorns below eye level, sucker growth from rootstock, water sprouts from limbs, and other objectionable growth. For more information on pruning and proper tree maintenance, scan the QR code below!

| Summer 2024 | orlandpark.org

orlandpark.org | Summer 2024 |

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PARK UPDATES

PARK UPDATES

CENTENNIAL PARK WEST

SCHUSSLER PARK

The Michael Schofield III Sports Complex at Schussler Park is open and ready for play! The facility will become the home of Pioneer Football and Cheer, and will provide practice and game fields for the Village’s many youth athletic organizations. When not scheduled for use, Orland Park residents may enjoy the use of the fields for drop-in play. Bleachers The new bleachers at Schussler Park will allow for a capacity of 207 people, set up in 10 rows, with two center aisles with handrails and 4 ADA Seats available. Total Light Control LED direct light with precision lighting control link, including 24/7 monitoring and precision light control. Artificial Turf The new artificial turf at Schussler Park incorporates a 3-layer system, one of the most intricate and meticulous infill systems available today. Designed to provide the best Gmax and energy restitution results, a 3-layer system provides athletes with improved safety and performance.

Conceived in 2003, and utilized for concerts and events since 2011, Centennial Park West includes full infrastructure support to host a variety of food and other vendors for events like Market in the Park, Centennial Park West Concert Series and the Taste of Orland Park. The open-air stage features a 3,200 sq. ft. performance stage, covered by a roof structure inspired by Gibson Explorer Guitar. Audiences will enjoy an improved lawn seating area ensuring a full view of the stage. The new venue provides the Village with the capabilities to host cover, tribute, national and international touring artists.

| Summer 2024 | orlandpark.org

orlandpark.org | Summer 2024 |

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UPCOMING SUMMER EVENTS

UPCOMING SUMMER EVENTS

The Village of Orland Park is proud to announce its 2024 Centennial Park West Concert Series presented by Mazda! Bring your lawn chair, pack your favorite beverages and snacks, and party with us this summer at the new Centennial Park West concert venue located at 15609 Park Station Blvd. The final oncert date is August 17. Beer, wine and food will be available for purchase. Outside alcoholic beverages are permitted. Tickets can be purchased at universe.com. CENTENNIAL PARK WEST CONCERT SERIES

4:30 - 6 p.m. Glory Days, Bruce Springsteen Tribute Band 6:30 - 8 p.m. Billy Joley Nation, Billy Joel Tribute Band 8:30 - 10 p.m. One Vision of Queen Featuring Marc Martel AUGUST 17

A summertime favorite in Orland Park has arrived at a new venue as Market at the Park is here at Centennial Park West! Every Thursday night through August 22, rain or shine, visit the over 50 vendors and enjoy weekly themes and live entertainment. Kids, be sure to check out our Market Roamers children’s program activities. At Market at the Park, there truly is something for everyone! For more information, please visit orlandpark.org/market.

| Summer 2024 | orlandpark.org

orlandpark.org | Summer 2024 |

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TASTE OF ORLAND PARK

UPCOMING SUMMER EVENTS

Celebrate the 21st Taste of Orland Park at a new location!

Centennial Park West is now the home for the Taste of Orland Park! Savor the flavors of 15 local restaurants and revel in the sounds of ten bands over this three day summer festival. The 2024 Taste will be packed with entertainment, delicious food, family activities community and sponsor booths, and more! For more information, visit orlandpark.org/taste.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2 5 – 11p.m. 5 – 7 p.m. - Kids’ activities 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. - Goo Roos (Variety)

7 – 7:30 p.m. - Carl Sandburg Marching Eagles 7:30 – 9 p.m. - Fletcher Rockwell (Americana Rock) 9:30 – 11 p.m. - DAVID NAIL (Country)

SATURDAY, AUGUST 3 3 – 11p.m. 3 – 7 p.m. - Kids’ activities

3:30 – 4 p.m. - Doonaree Pipe Band (Bagpipes) 4 – 6 p.m. - Four C Notes (Jersey Boys Tribute) 6:30 – 7:15 p.m. - Veterans’ Tribute 7:45 – 9 p.m. - 7th Heaven (Pop Rock) 9:30 –11 p.m. - SISTER HAZEL (Alternative)

SUNDAY, AUGUST 4 3 – 9 p.m. 3 – 7 p.m. - Kids’ activities

3:30 – 5 p.m. - Johnny Lyons & the Pride (Elvis Tribute) 5 – 5:30 p.m. - VOP Dance Companies (Dance) 5:30 – 7 p.m. - The Lounge Puppets (80s Hair Band) 7:30 – 9 p.m. - THE DOCKSIDERS (Yacht Rock)

*Entertainment and Restaurants are subject to change

| Summer 2024 | orlandpark.org

orlandpark.org | Summer 2024 |

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AROUND TOWN

AROUND TOWN

AROUND TOWN

CPAC Opening Day -- The Centennial Park Aquatic Center is open for its 33rd season until September 2! CPAC is a fun and exciting family water park offering a zero-depth pool surrounded by plenty of deck and lawn for lounging and a water play feature for little ones. You’ll enjoy using two body speed slides, 328-foot tube slide, 200-foot flume slide, platform cliff jump, and drop slide surrounded by the lazy river, which offers a relaxing ride around bends and under waterfalls. Children 11 years of age and under must be supervised by an adult 18 years of age or older.

Centennial Park West Concert Series -- The brand-new Centennial Park West concert venue kicked off the summer at the June Centennial Park West concert with Gary LeVox of Rascal Flatts, Hunter Hayes and Jessie Haines. With over 2,000 fans in attendance, it was an excellent way to start the summer!

Daily Admission Fees/Membership Resident: $12 | $9 - After 4 p.m. Non-Residents: $25 Monday-Thursday | $26 Friday-Sunday & Holidays (Labor Day, Sep. 2) Children 2 years and under are free. To ensure residents receive the resident rate for their pool membership as well as drop-in and recreational activities, a Resident ID must be issued to all Orland Park residents 3 years of age and older. This Resident ID will be required as proof of residency to ensure that resident privileges are not abused. Resident ID cards are available free of charge at the Sportsplex and Village Hall cashier’s office during regular business hours. To obtain a Resident ID card, proof of residency is required by showing a valid driver’s license/state ID. The Resident ID cards must be renewed annually by presenting a current driver’s license/state ID denoting same address. Non-resident rates will be charged to all participants without a valid photo ID.

For weather conditions for pool closings, residents can download the Rainoutline.com APP or call (708) 401-0043 ext. 66.

| Summer 2024 | orlandpark.org

orlandpark.org | Summer 2024 |

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COMMUNITY PRIDE

COMMUNITY PRIDE

-- Mayor Keith Pekau, Special Recreation participants and the Natural Resources and Facilities team came together in honor of Arbor Day to plant more beautiful trees at Stellwagen Farm. The Village of Orland Park has been recognized as a Tree City USA for 35 years by the National Arbor Day foundation for its commitment to community forest management.

-- National Champions! The Orland Park Viking 16U team was honored at the May 6 board meeting for their successful season, which culminated in the team winning the USA Hockey National Championships in Dallas, Texas. This was not only the first National Championship for the Orland Park Vikings Hockey Club but the first ever National Championship for an Illinois 16U team. Way to go Vikings!

-- At the February 19 Village Board Meeting, the Orland Park Police Department held its bi-annual awards ceremony. Among the awards were the Unit Citation (pictured above) awarded to the active participants of an operating unit for a cited action involving a highly unusual accomplishment through the teamwork of all involved in the cited action. The Grand Cordon (bottom left) awarded to police officers and employees of the Department for their dedication and determination in the arrest of person(s) responsible for numerous criminal acts throughout the area. Receiving the award is: Officer Nathan O’Connor, Officer David Hansen and Officer Tyler Lorek. The Exceptional Service Award (bottom right) is presented to officers and employees of the Department for a highly credible accomplishment bringing public acclaim to themselves, the Department or to the police profession, as a result of training, devotion to duty or service to the public. Receiving the award is Inv. Ronald Ahrendt.

-- U.S. Army Air Force 2nd Lt. Robert L. E. Porter made his long-awaited return home from WWII on June 7, over 80 years after his passing. Porter was a navigator for a B-24J “Liberator” that was shot down over Germany in 1944. He was buried with full military honors at the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.

-- Special Recreation Athletes competed at the 2024 Illinois Special Olympics Summer Games in Bloomington-Normal. 50 Athletes competed in Soccer, Bocce Ball, Track and Field, Swimming and Powerlifting, taking home 23 gold medals, 10 silver medals and 17 bronze medals.

| Summer 2024 | orlandpark.org

orlandpark.org | Summer 2024 |

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Orland Park welcomes Silver Cross and Premier Suburban Medical Group WELCOME TO ORLAND PARK

----------------------------------------------------------- The new Silver Cross Hospital and Premier Suburban Medical Group (PSMG) Orland Park Medical Pavilion, located at 17047 LaGrange Road, has officially opened to the residents of Orland Park. “The brand-new facility will ensure that Orland Park-area residents have even more options to receive exceptional care from their trusted providers while remaining close to home,” said Orland Park Mayor Keith Pekau, “The Village of Orland Park is eager to grow its relationship with Silver Cross and PSMG in the years to come.” The 42,000-square-foot, two-story medical pavilion features primary and multi-specialty care doctors and advanced practice providers; comprehensive lab, imaging, and pharmacy services; a 20-bay cancer care and infusion center; an endoscopy suite with two procedure rooms; cardiology services; 38 exam rooms; after hours care and more. “The pavilion honors the vision of late Silver Cross President and CEO Ruth Colby’s vision for finding ways to better serve communities in Orland Park, and the surrounding area,” said Orland Park’s Director of Development Services Steve Marciani, “We are proud of the hard work and dedication that has been put in to making this a top-in-class facility.” The brand-new facility recently won a prestigious first-place award from Healthcare Real Estates Insights, the annual award recognizes excellence in healthcare real estate development and executive leadership.

“We are proud to continue to bring in best-in class organizations for the residents of Orland Park,” Pekau said. “In addition to organizations like Advocate Healthcare, Northwestern Medicine and UChicago Medicine, Orland Park has become a premier destination for health services in the southwest suburbs.” About the Organizations Silver Cross Hospital is an independent, not-for profit healthcare provider serving Will County and southwest suburban communities since 1895. Silver Cross has been recognized as a 100 Top Hospitals National Award winner 11 times, honored with an “A” Hospital Safety Grade by The Leapfrog Group 18 times, and is rated 5 Stars by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Premier Suburban Medical Group providers have been a trusted part of suburban Chicago families for decades, caring for children, young adults, parents and grandparents alike. Providers specialize in family and internal medicine, pediatrics, cardiology, endocrinology, orthopedics, oncology, obstetrics & gynecology, surgery, rheumatology and more.

Plaque at the site honoring late Silver Cross CEO Ruth Colby

| Summer 2024 | orlandpark.org

orlandpark.org | Summer 2024 |

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WELCOME TO ORLAND PARK

TO ORLAND PARK!

<< -- ZEIGLER NISSAN OF ORLAND PARK -- Mayor Keith Pekau and Village staff joined the Zeigler Auto Group in celebrating the grand reopening of Zeigler Nissan of Orland Park at 8550 W 159th Street.

(Above) - Mayor Keith Pekau and Chamber Officials welcomed Cardinal Joseph Bernardin School to the Orland Park area Chamber of Commerce. (Below) - Dunkin Donuts (14461 LaGrange Road) celebrated its grand re-opening with the Orland Park Police Department and Orland Park Fire Protection District.

HOPEMARK -- >> -- Orland Park Village Staff and Chamber Officials welcomed Hopemark Health to Orland Park (14489 John Humphrey Drive). Hopemark Health takes an integrated approach to mental health. Schedule your mental health appointment at hopemarkhealth.com

<< -- AFFILIATED ONCOLOGISTS -- On June 6, Mayor Keith Pekau, Village Staff and Chamber Officials welcomed Affiliated Oncologists Orland Park Campus (82 Orland Square Drive.) For over 50 years, Affiliated has provided cancer care to patients in the Southwest Suburbs. To schedule your appointment, call (708) 342-9950.

| Summer 2024 | orlandpark.org

orlandpark.org | Summer 2024 |

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Memorial Day VETERANS INFORMATION

“We are honored to pay tribute to the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice serving our country,” said Orland Park Mayor Keith Pekau. “We are grateful for their sacrifices and the sacrifices of their family members, and look forward to gathering as a community for this poignant remembrance event.” The community came together to honor our veterans this Memorial Day at Ara Pace - Place of Peace. It is with tremendous gratitude and pride that the Village of Orland Park has added the names of the following veterans to the memorial wall:

The Orland Park Veterans Golf Classic will benefit the Orland Park Veterans Commission and area Veterans and military groups. The Orland Park Veterans Golf Classic is limited to 144 golfers. The deadline to register is August 25. Friends and families may purchase signs to commemorate a Veteran or Active Duty Member at the Veterans Golf Classic. The sign will be prominently placed onsite during the golf classic at Silver Lake Country Club. Upon the completion of the event, this individual commemorative sign is yours to keep. For more information, or to find out how to become a sponsor, visit the Village website, orlandpark.org/golf or contact the Veterans Commission at (708) 403-6115, veterans@orlandpark.org.

James George Keating - U.S. Air Force 1979-1980 James Robert Keating - U.S. Marines 2005-2009 David James Fitzpatrick - U.S. Air Force 1958-1961 Jerome Leonard Kwilinski - U.S. Army 1953-1955 John M. Brucki - U.S. Army 1965-1967 Thomas E. Trusk - U.S. Army 1966-1968 Walter Joseph Murphy - U.S. Army 1941-1944 Daniel Raymond Chiarito - U.S. Army 1966-1968

Do you want to Honor and Remember a Veteran? Each Memorial and Veterans Day, the Village’s Veterans Commission adds the names of veterans at the Village’s Memorial, Ara Pacé ~ Place of Peace Memorial at the Village Center. You can find this application available in person at the Village Hall or on the Village’s Website at: orlandpark.org/veterans.

Questions about the Orland Park Veterans commission? Please call

(708) 403-6115 or email veterans@orlandpark.org

| Summer 2024 | orlandpark.org

orlandpark.org | Summer 2024 |

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HERITAGE SITES

HERITAGE SITES

HERITAGE SITES

During that meeting, 31 votes were counted. The population at this time was 504 (285 men and 219 women). However, despite the small population, no fewer than 64 men from the township enlisted in the Civil War, which was almost a quarter of the male population at the time. The 39th Illinois Infantry mustered in Chicago in October 1861 after hearing about the firing on Fort Sumter. Upon its formation, ten men from Orland enlisted in Company G, alongside individuals from Bremen, Palos, Homer, and New Lenox townships. Over the course of the war, additional men from Will and Cook County enlisted in other Illinois infantry regiments, such as the 57th, 88th, and 100th. The 100th mustered in Joliet in August 1862 and had the greatest number of Orland men in its ranks. Though Lincoln never visited Orland Park, it is likely he interacted with Orland soldiers on a few occasions. According to The History of the Thirty-Ninth Regiment Illinois Volunteer Veteran Infantry (1889) by Charles M. Clark on May 24, 1862, Lincoln passed by and inspected the Union troops stationed in Falmouth, Virginia. When he saw the 39th Regiment’s flag, he stopped and called, “What regiment is this?” The troops responded: “Thirty-ninth, Illinois!”

From Farmers to Soldiers: Orland Park and the Civil War Each newsletter, we will dive into a different piece of Orland history. This time, we will be exploring Orland’s involvement in the Civil War. On April 12, 1861, Confederate forces launched an attack on Fort Sumter, a Union fort in Charleston, South Carolina. At 4:30 a.m., Confederate soldiers fired the first of many mortar rounds; after a 34 hour siege, the outgunned Union forces evacuated the fort. Northern outrage over this attack lit a fire under the Union. Newly elected President Abraham Lincoln asked all states and territories to provide volunteers for a 75,000-man militia to act against the Confederacy. American citizens in the North quickly volunteered to join this militia, with some states offering more than twice the number of men requested. The bombardment of Fort Sumter marked the beginning of the American Civil War, which lasted from April 12, 1861 to May 26, 1865. However, tensions had been brewing in America for decades prior, especially regarding the dispute over whether the institution of slavery should be permitted to expand into the nation’s western territories. While other factors contributed to the outbreak of fighting in 1861, such as popular sovereignty, states’ rights, and sectionalism, the moral quandary over slavery and the election of Illinois native Abraham Lincoln in 1860 ultimately brought years of political and social controversy to a head.

Thomas Humphrey and Caroline Talbot, 1864. Humphrey served in the 39th Regiment, Company G. He was killed in action at the Battle of Ware Bottom Church in Virginia on May 20, 1864.

Lincoln represented the Republican Party, a new political party founded in 1854 by anti-slavery activists in opposition to the Kansas-Nebraska Act. This act repealed the Missouri Compromise of 1820, thus paving the way for popular sovereignty and allowing the territories of Kansas and Missouri to decide the legality of slavery in those areas. Settlers on both sides of the debate rushed to the two territories in hopes of determining the outcome of the upcoming election; when the conflict turned violent, it earned the nickname “Bleeding Kansas.” This tumultuous political conflict provided backdrop to Lincoln’s inauguration in March 1861. In opposition to the North’s push for abolition and the perception of needing to protect their rights, eleven southern states seceded from the Union and formed the Confederate States of America. About a month later, Confederate forces fired on Fort Sumter. In 1861, Orland had only existed as a township for 11 years. While English and German immigrants had settled on the land since the 1830s, it was not until April 2, 1850 that the first township election was held in Centre School.

“Well, you boys are a good ways from home, ain’t you?” Lincoln responded, pleased to see a group of men from his home state. After he had reviewed the remainder of the Union’s troops, he returned to the 39th’s quarters and conversed with some of the men there. A few months after Lincoln’s visit with the 39th, he issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation on September 22, 1862. It declared that if the rebels did not stop fighting and rejoin the Union by January 1, 1863, all enslaved people in the Confederacy “shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free.” In response to the president’s proclamation, Joseph Ward, Jr. of the 39th Regiment wrote a letter to his parents back home in Orland in October 1862. He stated that “if the [Presidants] [Proclemation] works all over as it does here the south will soon begin to [feal] the effects of it. Already hundreds have come from North Carolina within our lines and say they heard of the [Proclemation] a way in the south where they never saw a Yankee soldier.” (More of Ward’s diary and letters can be found in An Enlisted Soldier’s View of the Civil War: The Wartime Papers of Joseph Richardson Ward, Jr, which was published in 1981.)

Matthew Wells, 1864. Wells was John Humphrey’s stepbrother. He was wounded and captured at the Battle of Drewry’s Bluff in Virginia on May 16, 1864. He was a prisoner of war at Andersonville Prison and was released in 1865.

| Summer 2024 | orlandpark.org

orlandpark.org | Summer 2024 |

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HERITAGE SITES

HERITAGE SITES

The Battle of Gettysburg marked a turning point in the war. Fought over the course of July 1 to July 3, 1863, the Union’s victory ended Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s attempted invasion of the North. While no Orland soldiers fought at the Battle of Gettysburg, other Illinois Regiments, such as the 8th and 12th Illinois, played an integral role in fighting the Confederate forces. However, the Battle of Gettysburg was also the bloodiest battle in the Civil War. More than 50,000 soldiers on both sides died over the course of just three days of fighting. In honor of their sacrifice, a few months later Lincoln delivered his Gettysburg Address at the Gettysburg National Cemetery on November 19, 1863. A copy of the Gettysburg Address is hung proudly in the newly remodeled Orland Park Village Board Room at Village Hall. During the Battle of Gettysburg, the majority of Illinois’ regiments were simultaneously fighting hundreds of miles away at the Siege of Vicksburg (May 18 to July 4, 1863); Illinois soldiers represented nearly a fourth of the troops engaging Confederate forces in that area, including Orland men in the 57th Regiment. Following the Battle of Gettysburg and the Siege of Vicksburg, soldiers from Orland in the 39th, 57th, 88th, and 100th engaged in numerous influential battles up until the end of the war, such as the Atlanta Campaign during the summer of 1864 and the Richmond-Petersburg Campaign from June 1864 to March 1865. The 39th Regiment fought in the Appomattox Campaign in Virginia from March to April 1865, which ended with the surrender of Lee and the Confederate Army on April 9. By May 26, the last military department of the Confederacy disbanded. At the end of the war, soldiers slowly began to make their way back home. However, not everyone survived the conflict. The American Civil War claimed the lives of three percent of the population with more than 1,030,000 individuals losing their lives. Out of the 620,000 soldiers who perished, two-thirds were killed by disease. Orland also suffered mortalities, including Thomas Humphrey (the brother of Orland Park’s first mayor, John Humphrey), Paul Brandau, Joseph Martin, and Edgar H. Mitchell. One unnamed soldier, too sick to tell anyone his name, came to Orland and died. He was buried by Orland residents at Brooks Cemetery in Homer Glen. Today, veterans of the Civil War are remembered on U.S. Route 6 -- also called the Grand Army of the Republic Highway -- which runs through Orland Park. The Grand Army of the Republic was founded in 1866 in Decatur, Illinois and comprised of Civil War veterans of the Union Army, Navy, and Marines. By the time of its dissolution in 1956, the organization had hundreds of local

community units across the northern and western United States. A Grand Army of the Republic Highway marker can be found on the eastbound lane of 159th Street, east of Wolf Road. This article was written by Heritage Sites Supervisor Libby Paulson. For more information on the Orland Park Heritage Sites, visit orlandpark.org/ heritagesites or email heritagesites@ orlandpark.org.

| Summer 2024 | orlandpark.org

orlandpark.org | Summer 2024 |

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FITNESS

FITNESS

The Village of Orland Park offers a variety of outstanding facilities that are readily available for all residents looking to stay active and healthy! FITNESS IN OP

VILLAGE OF ORLAND PARK SPORTSPLEX 11351 West 159th St. | (708) 403-5000 orlandpark.org/sportsplex The Sportsplex is a state-of-the-art fitness facility with much to offer for all ages and interests. Spanning over 90,000 square feet, the Sportsplex offers an array of fitness and recreational opportunities.

ORLAND PARK HEALTH AND FITNESS CENTER 15430 West Ave. | (708) 226-0555 OPHFC.com

OPHFC is approximately 78,000 square feet and is a multi-purpose facility with state-of-the-art equipment, multiple group exercise studios, a walk jog track, gymnasium, spa, a lap and therapy pool, men’s and women’s saunas, steam and Jacuzzi’s, plus family changing rooms. Medical fitness centers utilize exercise as the method to promote health benefits and support preventative care while traditional gyms focus on physical fitness and popular exercise techniques. Orland Park Health & Fitness Center is a member of the Medical Fitness Association. This means that we provide the latest exercise programs, nutrition and health education, and medical fitness programs to focus on an individual’s complete health and wellness.

•Fitness •Yoga •Pilates

•Rock climbing •Exercise classes •Birthday parties •Hit & pitch lessons

•Weightlifting •Cardio •Running •Basketball •Volleyball

•Golf cages

•Open gym time

• Childcare

•Special events

•Soccer

SUMMER HOURS (UNTIL SEPT. 4) Monday - Friday | 5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

FACILITY HOURS (YEAR-ROUND) Monday - Friday | 5 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Saturday | 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sunday | 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Saturday | 6 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sunday | 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

FRANKLIN E. LOEBE RECREATION CENTER 14650 South Ravinia Ave. | (708) 403-7275 orlandpark.org/FLC Another option for indoor fitness is the Franklin E. Loebe Recreation Center, located in the Orland Park Village Center Complex.

•Two dance studios

•Two meeting rooms

•Five preschool rooms •Walking track •Gymnasium

The indoor track is open to the general public.

SUMMER HOURS (UNTIL SEPT. 4) Monday through Friday | 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday | 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Sunday | Closed

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orlandpark.org | Summer 2024 |

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Prsrt Standard U.S. Postage Orland Park, IL Permit Number 33 PAID

14700 SOUTH RAVINIA AVENUE ORLAND PARK, IL 60462 orlandpark.org

VILLAGE FACILITIES

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT 15655 South Ravinia Avenue (708) 403-6350 ORLAND PARK POLICE DEPARTMENT 15100 South Ravinia Avenue (708) 349-4111(non-emergency) Dial 9-1-1 for emergency RECREATION AND PARKS DEPARTMENT 14600 South Ravinia Avenue (708) 403-5000

VILLAGE HALL 14700 South Ravinia Avenue (708) 403-6100 VILLAGE OF ORLAND PARK SPORTSPLEX 11351 West 159th Street. (708) 403-5000 FRANKLIN E. LOEBE RECREATION CENTER 14650 South Ravinia Ave. (708) 403-6259 SENATOR JOHN HUMPHREY HOUSE 9830 West 144th Place (708) 403-5000

CENTENNIAL PARK AQUATIC CENTER

15600 West Ave. (708) 349-4386

ORLAND PARK HEALTH AND FITNESS CENTER 15430 West Avenue (708) 226-0555 ORLAND PARK CIVIC CENTER 14750 South Ravinia Avenue (708) 403-6200