Westlake Village Villager - January 2026
NOTE: Winners were chosen by independent non -resident judges.
Westlake Village HOA, Committees, and Contacts WESTLAKE VILLAGE HOA BOARD of DIRECTORS Contact:
Email Address:
Phone:
President: Julie Nampel:
janampel@hotmail.com
(920) 319-0562
Treasurer: Jim Klinger:
milkman50@comcast.net (815) 742-5021
Secretary: Donna Heffern:
donnaheffern@gmail.com (847) 902-0268
Cindy Beyer-Rienhardt:
beyerrienhardt@icloud.com
(815) 988-8982
Dani Saboe:
danisaboe@gmail.com
(406) 437-4200
Office Manager: Gina Mays: WLVemail@comcast.net
(815) 335-4007
Westlake Village Committees Contact
Phone
Communications Committee - wlvVillager@comcast.net Petronella Boose
ARTopics@yahoo.com
(253) 606-1822
Donna Heffern
donnaheffern@gmail.com
(847) 902-0268
Val Jewell
vjvjewell@gmail.com
(815) 291-8016
Nancy Peistrup
nancnrich@yahoo.com
(815) 335-4067
Susan Weber
smweber1983@gmail.com
(847) 489-1459
Michael Lambert Greg Surufka
jiffyrock@gmail.com glsurufka@gmail.com
(815) 275-3182 (815) 543-1313
LaVerne Weber
laverne@gradesolutionsllc.com (847) 489-1457
Lake Commission
For information regarding: Pool, Architectural Review and Redbook: Julie Nampel
janampel@hotmail.com
(920) 319-0562
milkman50@comcast.net
donnaheffern@gmail.com
wlvemail@comcast.net
Westlake Village Community Center 3677 Westlake Village Dr. Winnebago, IL 61088 Winter Hours: 815-335-4007 Monday - Thursday from 8am-5pm - CLOSED FRIDAYS - open every other Saturday 9am- 12 noon. OTHER IMPORTANT CONTACTS FOR OUR AREA Each of the following numbers will take you to recorded options for all emergency or non-emergency issues ~ Pecatonica Sheriff’s Dept. ~ 815-319-6300 ComEd ~ 800-334-7661 Nicor Gas ~ 888-642-6748 Prairie Path ~ 800-831-2359
(847) 902-0268
Burritt Township Supervisor & Road ~ 815-988-0871 Burritt Township office ~ 815-218-6740
For information regarding: Community Center Reservations, Golf Cart Fees, Fishing Buckets & Parking Stickers, HOA Dues and other questions : Gina Mays (WLV Office)
If you do not have access to the website, please call WLV office 815-335-4007 to request a login.
(815) 742-5021
For information regarding: Community Social Events: Donna Heffern
Please note that WLV Financials and HOA Minutes are only available to all residents, at the Community Center or the Westlake Website: https://www.wlvhoa.com/home.asp or Scan QR Code :
Pecatonica Schools ~ 815-239-2550 Township of Pecatonica Supervisor ~ 815-239-1555 Township of Pecatonica Road Commissioner ~ 779-207-9652
For information regarding: Finance, Grounds & Maintenance: Jim Klinger
NEXT HOA BOARD MEETING JANUARY 13, 2026 @ 8:00 AM
(815) 335-4007
Winnebago County Highway Dept.– (roads) 815-319-4000 Lynx Golf Course ~ 815-335-4031
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HOA Blue Book Changes
INDEX - VILLAGER - JANUARY 2026
To All Residents:
Westlake Village HOA, Committees, and Contacts
2
WLV Proposed Blue Book Voting
3
Christmas in Westlake Village
4-5
Ice Fishing in WLV
7
Pecatonica Library Events & Bookworms
8
Pecatonica Schools CUSD 321
9
Winnebago Library Events
11
It’s your Village ~ Happy New Year
12 - 13
Area 2026 Upcoming Events & Word Search
14 - 15
Year of the Horse
16
A warm *THANK YOU* to all who contributed
The Blue Book voting is still open and can legally remain open until at least two third’s of all resident’s ballots are received. Each issue stands alone. If you agree on one change but not the other, you may vote accordingly, but each ballot must be completely filled out, including your name and lot number, that is the only fair and equitable way a vote can be recorded. At least 376 of our 565 residents (or 2/3) must vote, in order to change any blue book rule. These changes are important to WLV’s continued growth and success... Many resident’s have voiced that the Blue Book needs updating… Let’s bring these outdated standards up to date.
to the Westlake Village Angel Tree in 2025! THIS IS YOUR VILLAGE If you have not voted, please vote! (No one wants to have to contact you to turn in your vote.)
If you have lost your ballots, please stop by the office to obtain one. Thank you!
A gift from the heart, a tag from the tree, You’ve brought more joy than you can see! For your spirit of giving and pockets of grace, You’ve put a smile on a grateful face!
For your convenience, a second mailing of ballots will be included along with HOA Dues coupons Please do not throw them out! If you haven’t done so already please send in your votes!
Will you be spending the winter months in a warmer climate? If so, stop in the office to complete the Garbage Stop/Start form. Contact Gina at wlvemail@comcast.net or 815-335-4007. 3
Back row Left to right: Teresa Nickell, Donna Richards, Cristy Moe, Louanne Glisan, Karla Teater, Dana Geigle, Sue Lambert, Susan Weber, Marianne Early, Barbie Blosser. Front row: Joleen Petit, Nancy Peistrup, Petronella Boose, Val Jewell, Anne Rezich.
Turning 65? I’m here to help. Call me to learn more about your Medicare options. Odis Thomas (815)222-7603 (TTY:711) 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Mon.-Fri. A licensed agent will answer your call. OdisThomas@aol.com ©2024 Aetna Inc. Y0001_NR_34539_2023_C 3564019-01-01
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These were just a few of the lighting displays for 2025… they didn’t win the contest but still awesome to see in WLV!
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Westlake in Winnebago, IL is a private community lake. Based on the official Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) regulations and local information, the fishing rules are a combination of state and local/HOA rules , with the local rules being more restrictive. Critical Local Regulation (Westlake Village) A tip-up is a specialized fishing device The most important rule for ice fishing at Westlake is the local designed to automatically signal an angler regulation regarding tip-ups:
The use of setlines and unattended lines (including Tip-Ups when ice fishing) is strictly prohibited. This local rule overrides the statewide rule that allows 3 tip-ups.
when a fish bites while ice fishing. It allows the angler to set up a baited line in a hole, walk away, and still be alerted to a strike.
Regulation Type
Statewide Rule
Westlake Local Rule
Effective Rule for Westlake
Number of Poles
Max 3 poles/lines.
Must comply with State rules.
Max 3 poles/lines (actively attended).
Tip-Ups
Allowed (Max 3).
Strictly Prohibited.
Prohibited.
Attendance
Must be constantly attended.
Unattended lines are strictly prohibited.
All lines must be actively held or constantly attended.
Hole Size
Max 12 inches in diameter.
Must comply with State rules.
Max 12 inches in diameter.
License
Required for anglers 16+ (or valid Resident Lot Owner license).
Required.
Valid IL Fishing License (and a WLV ID bucket/decal).
Additional Important Westlake Village Rules: • Displaying ID: Members wishing to fish must register at the WLV office and receive an identification bucket with Westlake decals. This bucket must be openly displayed when ice fishing, or any other fishing on Westlake. When parking to ice fish, your vehicle must display a current dated permit, on the rear-view mirror. (Permits are obtained at the WLV Office during regular business hours, Monday -Thursday 8AM-5PM and every other Saturday 9AM - Noon. CLOSED FRIDAY.) ENFORCEMENT: If ice fishing vehicles are spotted without a rearview mirror hanging placard, photos of the vehicle's license plates will be texted immediately to our local DNR officer’s cell phone so he can come out to investigate and issue tickets with a standard $195 fine. •
Guests: Guests may only fish when accompanied by a Member who is in good standing and over the age of sixteen.
• Prohibited Areas: Fishing is strictly prohibited from the concrete spillway, any wetlands area, and from/within 100 feet of any beach area.
⚠️ Important Safety Note: While the state sets fishing rules, ice conditions are generally not monitored by the IDNR or local forest preserves. Anglers are responsible for checking ice thickness. A minimum of 4 inches of solid ice over the entire water body is typically recommended before attempting to ice fish. 7
815-239-2616 https://pecatonicalibrary.org/
F
illed with knowledge that only comes from a life fully lived, The Correspondent is a gem of a novel about the power of finding solace in literature and connection with people we might never meet in person. It is about the hubris of youth and the wisdom of old age, and the mistakes and acts of kindness that occur during a lifetime.
Pecatonica Public Library 400 W. 11th Street Pecatonica, IL
The WLV Bookworms meet the second Thursday each month at 2PM in the WLV Community Center, 3677 Westlake Village Dr. , Winnebago, IL. New members are always welcome! Please contact Joleen Petit: 779-537-0814 to find out more. Next meeting: January 8, 2026 - 2PM 8
We are thrilled to announce the following have won Pecatonica High School December 2025 Student of the Month Award: Senior – Amelia VandeVoorde Junior – Emelia Gesin Sophomore - Owen Bradbury Freshman – Levi Lundberg Congratulations!
T
he Pecatonica Poms squad is holding a dance clinic for any 3rd through 8th grader who wants to get a fun sneak peek into dancing and school spirit! The Poms squad will teach the fundamentals of basic moves and jumps, and participants will learn a routine that will be performed at a Pecatonica High School boys basketball game! No dance experience is necessary.
Congratulations to the 2024-2025 Pecatonica High School Yearbook Staff for winning Second Place in the Layout and Design category for Division 2 of the Illinois Journalism Education Association Yearbook Contest!
Here’s what you’ll need to know: WHO: The clinic is open to all 3rd - 8th grade girls. WHEN: Clinic days: Friday, January 9th 3:30-4:30 Monday, January 12th 3:30-4:30 Game Performances: Monday, January 12th, 2026 @ 7pm (Varsity Game) WHERE: Clinic days - Pecatonica High School Commons Game Performances - Pecatonica High School COST: $30.00 per participant (includes a t-shirt)
**Please return your permission slip and $30 fee (cash or check made payable to PHS Poms) to the main office of the Elementary or Middle School (to the attention of Sabrina Massa-PHS Poms)
NO LATER THAN TUESDAY, January 6th, 2026 Forms can be found in both the middle school and elementary school offices or here: https:// docs.google.com/document/d/1-1NJfGJ4yb6cc_FNm3APNASMp8iIyDSRuwFME0fWjE/edit? usp=sharing. Questions? Email Ms. Massa (sabrinamassa@pecschools.com).
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PHOTO BY SUSAN WEBER—12/29/2025—WESTLAKE
There are boundless opportunities to learn and explore at free museums in Chicago, from awe-inspiring art galleries to fascinating science exhibits to interactive hands-on experiences. Regardless of your interests (or budget), the city’s cultural gems, have something for everyone. Here are some of the top free museums in Chicago where you’ll find endless opportunities to discover something amazing. And, as an added bonus, think of all the steps you can get in to jump start your fitness resolutions! Scan the QR code to get details to other top notch museums and more.
Chicago museum free days Art Institute of Chicago free days
Free Winter Weekdays: Jan. 5 – Feb. 28, 2026
Adler Planetarium free days
Jan. 7, 12, 14, 21, 26, and 28, 2026
Chicago History Museum free days
Jan. 19 – 23 and 27 – 30, 2026
Field Museum free days
Every Wednesday throughout 2026
Shedd Aquarium free days
Jan. 6 – 8, 13– 20, and 27– 29, 2026
Griffin Museum of Science and Industry free days
Jan. 12, 13, 14, 25, 26, 27, and 28, 2026
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center free days
Every Wednesday throughout 2026
Museum of Contemporary Art free days
Every Tuesday from 5 – 9 p.m
Play Euchre Monday Nights @ 6:30 PM All are WELCOME!
$12. Win Prizes! Drinks & Food available!
Contact: Brenda Brandon for more info: (815) 494-2865 10
DATE
TIME
EVENT
SOMETHING YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU GO…
1/3/2026
8:30 AM
Garden Club
Annual meeting & breakfast. 1st Saturday of each month. Gather with a group of people interested in gardening from beginner to advanced. All men and women interested in gardening welcome! The club also offers expert speakers and field trips throughout the year. Affiliated with Garden Club of Illinois.
1/5/2026
2:00 - 8:00 PM
Quilt Club
Meets 1st Monday of every month. Join anytime. No membership, no fees! Bring your own machine or handwork and projects! Stop in when it's convenient for you.
1/7/2026
10:30 AM
Story Time & Craft
Every Wednesday! Bring the little ones to hear a story and make a related craft. Great opportunity for moms to meet other moms, liittle ones to make friends and, of course, discover new story books!
1/8/2026
10:30 - 12:30 PM
ADULT Book Arts Workshop
This month: Spilled Coffee Bookmark. Each month will feature a new craft making, using or related to books. All supplies provided. Free workshop! REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
1/12/2026
6:30 PM
Book Club - Adults
No Book Club in January 2026
1/15/2026
10:30 - 11:30 AM
Homeschool Book Bingo
No registration required. Win fun prizes and enjoy a snack.
1/15/2026
1:00 - 3:30 PM
Card Club
Meets 1st (excluding New Years Day) and 3rd Thursday this month, in Community Room. Free to join and play!
1/20/2026
10:30 AM
ADULT Book Bingo
Cool bookish prizes & refreshments. No registration required.
1/22/2026
6:15 - 8:00 PM
Puzzle Race
SAVE THE DATE! 2/5/2026
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Homeschool Book Arts Workshop - Spilled Cocoa Bookmark
1st Thurs of each month. Each month will feature a new craft making, using or related to books. REGISTRATION REQUIRED! All supplies provided. FREE workshop! Note: Ages 5-7 must have one on one parent or adult assistance. Ages 8+ may work independently.
2/7/2026
10:30 - 11:30 AM
A Valentine Pillow for Stuffy
Children of all ages are invited to bring their favorite Stuffy (stuffed animal or character) to the library to make a Valentine pillow just for their Stuffy. After pillow is made, each child can get a picture taken with Stuffy and take the photo home that day! RESERVATIONS REQUIRED by Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026 for this FREE event.
2/7/2026
1:00 - 3:00 PM
Inntro to Watercolor "Make and Take"
Join us with Betsy Degunther, artist & author, to learn two watercolor techniques to make two greeting cards, one for Valentines Day and one design of your choice. All supplies included. REGISTRATION REQUIRED for this free class. 11
It’s Your Village, Your Vision: What Shall We Create in 2026?
A
s we look toward 2026, we reflect on some of the events of the past —the Easter Egg Hunt, A Bunco Party, The Summer Beach Party, 4th of July Boat Parade, the Garden Walk, the Halloween Costume Parade, the Santa and Tree Lighting Event… what are we missing? Looking Ahead to 2026 The calendar is a blank canvas really — and we want your hands on the paintbrush. Our village events have always been the heartbeat of this community, but for them to stay vibrant, they need to reflect on the people who live here today. These events are more than just entertainment; they are opportunities to: Build Connections: Meeting the neighbor three doors down or the family from the other side of the lake. Ownership: Having a hand in creating the traditions your children and grandchildren will remember. Impact: Seeing the immediate joy a well-run event brings to our own Village. So, What Do You Think is Missing from Our Calendar? We Want to Hear From You! We are currently in the "dreaming phase" for 2026. No idea is too big, and no suggestion is too small. Is there an event you’ve seen elsewhere and thought, "I wish we did that here"? Maybe it’s: A Village "Skills Exchange": Where neighbors teach everything from sourdough baking to bike repair. Open-Air Cinema: Bringing the big screen to our local green. Fireworks on our lake on the 4th of July. Inter-generational Games: A day of old-school sports that brings the kids and the seniors together. A Sustainability Fair: A Garden Walk…swapping plants, seeds, and eco-friendly tips? !
If you have an idea please send your suggestions to wlvVillager@comcast.net or ARTopics@yahoo.com , then stay tuned. Next month, we will post your ideas! Then we will see where we can go from there. Community only happens when we show up for one another. By sharing your ideas now, you’re helping us ensure that 2026 is a year that truly belongs to all of us. Let’s Build the Village You Want to Be a Part of! Word Search Answers From puzzle on page 15
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“The best way to predict the future
is to create it.” - Abraham Lincoln
I Tailor Made Autoworks, LLC
(815) 235-3576
4623 Boeing Dr. TailorMadeAutoworks@gmail.com Rockford, IL, 61109
n the U.S. there are several New Year’s traditions that are iconic, including the Times Square Ball Drop, making resolutions, and fireworks. Other customs include kissing at midnight which symbolizes love and friendship to ensure a year filled with affection and companionship. Eating black-eyed peas, collard greens, and corn bread is a Southern custom believed to bring prosperity and good luck for the year ahead. Attending the Rose Parade in Pasadena, CA with its beautifully decorated floats and marching bands, is a great way to start off the New Year. Many states do “ball drops”. In Boise, ID, a 17-foot glowing tubular potato is lowered at midnight. A “sweet twist” on a drop is a 600-pound illuminated moon pie dropped in Mobile, AL. Macon, GA brings a touch of Spring with their Cherry Blossom ball drop. Mount Olive, NC, the pickle capital of America and home of the Mount Olive Pickle Company drops a glowing pickle at midnight. Bethlehem, PA, hometown of the iconic Peeps, does a Peeps drop featuring a giant glowing version of the sugary treat. Known as the “City of Oaks”, Raleigh NC drops a 10-foot, 1,250-pound acorn at midnight. Wisconsin, the cheese capital, drops a massive wedge of glowing cheese in Plymouth. The ultimate southern celebration is the peach drop in Atlanta, GA. As a tribute to the town’s fishing history, Eastport, ME drops a larger-than-life giant sardine sculpture. A giant glowing music note is dropped in Nashville, TN, also known as the Music City. In Sarasota, FL, a giant pineapple is dropped while in Morehead City, NC, they drop a crab pot. If you will be hosting or attending a New Year’s Eve party this year, you will most certainly be singing “Auld Lang Syne” and using noise makers to ring in the New Year.
May 2026 be your BEST year EVER! 13
Upcoming 2026 Area Events Date Night January 8, 2026 5:30 to 8:30 PM
Poison Ivy Pub 5765 Elevator Road Roscoe, IL
SALT Restaurant 6860 Spring Creek Rd Rockford, IL January 17, 2026
6:00 - 8:00 PM
815 239-9399
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See answers on page 12
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2026 Is a Time of Power Speed Clarity Breakthrough It symbolizes Confidence Action Prosperity Forward Motion Don’t Hesitate Move This is not the year to wait This is the year to start running Momentum is magic When you move With Purpose Doors Open When you move With Power Blessings meet you Halfway Reminding us Progress comes from Action - not hesitation Run toward your Blessings Move with Confidence Intention Become the force they never saw coming True freedom isn’t running away It’s running toward What sets your spirit alive With Courage Grace And an untamed heart
2026 is
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