“Teach Your Children Well”
That was a lyric from a popular Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young song from when I was growing up. They are words to live by and learn from. While this concept is still true, I have come to learn that we are also taught by our children. In Franklin Park, I am amazed by the intelligence and passion of our young people.
Each year, we hold a “Mayor for a Day’ writing contest open to students in third, fourth and fifth grades. Students are asked to offer their ideas on specific subjects relating to the community and what they would do if they were Mayor of Franklin Park. Adela Struzouca, a 4th grade student at Passow School, was the winner this year. Adela wrote an outstanding essay on how to make our town more neighborly and discussed holding a community-wide recycling party.
Though we choose a winner, I believe that every child who enters is a winner. They have demonstrated one of the most important aspects of a working democracy- speaking their mind. Their perspective is unique and authentic. The Board and I welcome their input and we listen to their ideas. I am impressed with the depth and breadth of their understanding of our community’s challenges, needs and opportunities.
These students are very well versed in the issues of the day. They address subjects of sustainability, immigration, affordable housing and school safety. There are also some great recommendations for ways to provide free ice cream and pool passes! Children are our future and keeping and attracting new families to Franklin Park is a mission of our Village Board. We have worked to keep our property taxes stable. We continue to improve our infrastructure and provide family-oriented events. We prioritize public safety because safeguarding our neighborhoods helps to keep property values high. Investing in our community will keep us a diverse Village that honors and respects its citizens of all ages.
Our Board also works closely with the school districts, the Library Board and the Park District to ensure that Franklin Park has the recreational, cultural and educational assets that will attract growing families.
A Rising Young Business Star
One of Franklin Park’s young stars is Jeanette Chavarria Torres, just named by Crain’s Chicago Business as one of 20 in their 20’s. Jeanette is the founder, President and CEO of Franklin Park-based DCH Construction and Hauling. The firm moves dirt, sand and gravel to construction sites. Jeanette persevered through economic downturns to build a successful company from one truck and trailer to nine vehicles and now services clients including Christy Weber Landscaping and METRA.
Fewer than two percent of women-owned businesses achieve over $1 million in annual revenue, which DCH has accomplished.A former Village employee, Jeanette now serves on our Zoning Board of Appeals. We congratulate Jeanette and we are glad she is part of our Franklin Park Family! Franklin Park parents -- you have taught your children well. Keep it up! We encourage your participation in our community and look forward to hearing more from these talented young people.
Farwell Don Fulmer
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we want to offer our condolences to the family and friends of Train Guru Don Fulmer who passed away last month. For over 20 years, Don offered his leadership and guidance to our Annual Railroad Days Festivals. His tireless efforts brought unique and vintage train cars, along with countless train enthusiasts, to our community.
Thank you Don Fulmer for your years of service and dedication in honoring Franklin Park’s rail heritage.
Mayor Barrett Pedersen