West Chicago Bestows Recognition on Deserving Artists, Heroes and Organizations

West Chicago, Illinois: August 9, 2007 - It was a fine evening for recognition at the City of West Chicago Council meeting on Monday, August 6, 2007, which included appreciation for the talents of local artists, a dedication of a Police Memorial to honor the community's three fallen police officers, commendation for the efforts of the City of West Chicago's Chamber of Commerce and Industry in elevating a 34-year tradition of a beloved event to new heights and a proclamation for a church parish celebrating a 13-year festival tradition.

Mayor Michael B. Kwasman and the entire City Council joined in congratulating the 14 Fine Arts Fiesta People's Choice Award winners. The event was part of the City's 34th Annual Railroad Days. Among those artists honored in four categories; Student, Craft, Amateur and Professional, were: Joseph Favia, Benjamin Easley and Richie McCloud; LeRoy Fennewald, Gene Gaede and Lorie Reynolds; Gwen Hines, Mike Bodnar, Britta Renwick and Mark Fortman; Marge Hall, Shorn Malec, Fredericka Howard and Robert Korta.

Honoring fallen police officers Marshal George Riehm, Officer Raymond Wilson and Officer Michael Browning, the City Council rededicated the memorial plaque that now hangs in City Hall. LuAnne Bombard, West Chicago's City Museum Director, gave a presentation that concluded with inspiring words and a standing ovation for the lost heroes, "For the heroes we honor and for all the heroes that answer the call today, we will never forget the three brave men who gave their lives for the City of West Chicago."

Accepting an award of appreciation for the stellar job of organizing and managing a highly successful signature event, Railroad Days, Executive Director Dave Sabathne and Business Development Director Wayne Lofton gratefully acknowledged the praise by Mayor Michael B. Kwasman for a job well done in coordinating the four-day celebration of community.

Recognition continued with City Clerk Nancy Smith reading a proclamation from Mayor Michael B. Kwasman, marking August 12, 2007 as the 13th Annual St. Mary's Festival to be celebrated at St. Mary's Campus, located at 163 Garden Street in West Chicago.

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