Memorial Day is more than just the unofficial start of summer, picnics and days off from work; it is a profound moment to pause and reflect on the history that built our freedom as we are reminded of the generations of service members who sacrificed their "todays" for our "every-days." From the early settlers of Winnebago County to the veterans who call our community home today, the spirit of service is woven into the very fabric of our local history. While many communities across the country struggle to maintain decades-old traditions, our neighbors are preparing for a milestone that spans centuries!
Open every other Saturday: 9 AM - Noon (May 9, 23)
NOTE: Hours subject to change, depending on Community Center events
Next HOA Board Meeting: May 12, 2026 7:00 PM
If you do not have access to the website, please call WLV office 815-335-4007 to request a login.
Please note that WLV Financials in the 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 :
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
Pecatonica Fire Station ~ 815-335-2651
ComEd ~ 800-334-7661
Nicor Gas ~ 888-642-6748
Prairie Path ~ 800-831-2359
Pecatonica Schools ~ 815-239-2550
Township of Pecatonica Supervisor ~ 815-239-1555
Township of Pecatonica Road Commissioner ~ 779-207-9652
Burritt Township Supervisor & Road ~ 815-988-0871
Burritt Township office ~ 815-218-6740
Winnebago County Highway Dept.– (roads) 815-319-4000
Lynx Golf Course ~ 815-335-4031
N ISHING ON THE WETLANDS WATERFALL
N FISHING OFF THE SMITH ROAD BRIDGE
N FISHING WITHOUT WESTLAKE VILLAGE OT NUMBERED RED BUCKET
N ISHING OFF OF PRIVATELY OWNED DOCKS
N ISHING OFF THE NORTH DAM
N ISHING WHERE N ISHING SIGNS ARE POSTED
N THROWING ROCKS INTO THE LAKE
NO TRESPASSING SIGNS ARE TO BE OBEYED
N DOGS ALLOWED IN THE SANDY BEACH AREA
N LEAVING YOUR DOG WASTE BEHIND WESTLAKE COMMUNITY THAT RESPECTS THE VILLAGE CARES ABOUT THE FAMILIES THAT LIVE HERE W PLAY BY THE RULES… AND WHILE ENCOURAGING OTHERS TO DO THE SAME W REMAIN KIND
ILLAGE
Help Control Non-Resident Fishing on Our Lake & Wetlands
An increasing number of NON-RESIDENTS have been spotted fishing on our lake, fountain lagoon and wetlands. These trespassers routinely ignore our posted warning signage and fish illegally on our private property. to keep the fishery we have, protected and fun for all our residents.
• RESIDENTS are only allowed to fish in the public/common areas of the lake and fountain lagoon.
• Shore fishing is NOT allowed in the wetlands or on the townhome private property and docks.
At our April 14th WLV Master Association meeting, many residents shared stories of confronting non residents that were fishing on our property without a required WLV-registered red bucket. The homeowners requested guidance as to what should be said to these violators. In response, the following policy/ procedure has been put in place effective immediately:
What to do if you spot someone that is fishing illegally from shore without a registered WLV red bucket
1) If they are youth(s) (without a vehicle): You can approach them and simply ask if they live in the community and tell/remind them that a registered WLV red bucket is required for all shore If they don’t have a bucket at home, their parents should go to the office to get one (buckets will only be issued to adult homeowners). If you spot the same youths again without a WLV bucket or fishing in a non-authorized area, get their name and immediately email it to the office so parental fines can be issued. wlvemail@comcast.net
2) If they have a vehicle:
a) You can approach them and simply ask if they live in the community and tell them that a registered WLV red bucket is required for all fishing. If they don’t have a bucket, take a photo of their vehicle with license plate and immediately email it to the office. wlvemail@comcast.net
b) No need to confront them. Simply place a Violation Flyer under their windshield wiper, then take a photo of their vehicle with license plate and immediately email it to the office.
wlvemail@comcast.net
Violation Flyers (shown below) are available at the office.
3) Gina will quickly forward the vehicle photo with license plate directly to our local DNR Sergeant
The DNR will run the plates to see if the vehicle is registered to a WLV resident. If not, a $195 ticket with a court date will be mailed immediately.
Is this system effective?
To date, Gina has forwarded 10 vehicle/license plate photos to the DNR. The Sargeant confirmed that eight $195 tickets were mailed out.
(A schedule will be drawn up as soon as teams are signed up!)
Also, If there is an interest in organizing a teenage league for kiddos under 18, let us know!
Taken 5/24/2025 Taken 9/22/1996
Fast-forward to September 18, 1996
The News Gazette (Durand, IL) provides a detailed update on the Westlake Village development in Pecatonica, Illinois, roughly four months after its May groundbreaking. Despite early delays caused by a historically wet spring, the project was hitting its stride as it moved from invisible underground infrastructure to visible above-ground construction.
Overcoming Environmental Hurdles
The project faced a rocky start due to heavy rains and flooding, which delayed construction by four to six weeks. Bill Hoyt, of William Charles Investments, noted that the crews eventually worked 24-hour shifts for a month to get back on schedule. One of the biggest challenges was the "clay layer" 14 feet below the surface, which prevented natural drainage and created a saturated, swampy environment.
• Coolidge Creek
Before it ever reaches the main body of the lake, it is diverted through the wetlands. The article explains that because the land is naturally saturated due to that 14foot clay shelf, this area was the most logical place to "reestablish" the five acres of wetlands mandated by conservationists.
• Solving the "Clay Layer" Issue
The geography of the area made wetlands the most logical land-use choice for the southern tip of the property. A thick layer of clay sits roughly 14 feet below the surface, which prevents water from draining into the ground. By embracing the natural "saturation" of the soil, the developers turned a drainage problem into a scenic, self-sustaining ecosystem that mimics the area's original landscape.
Environmental Mitigation
The creation of these wetlands wasn't just a design choice; it was a mandate.
• Going Above and Beyond:
Hoyt claimed that the team was actually creating more wetland acreage than was strictly required by law.
• Water Filtration and Sediment Control
The primary technical role of the wetlands is to act as a natural filtration system for the 82-acre lake. Because the local creek flows from south to north, it carries runoff and silt toward the lake. To manage this:
• Check Dams:
Two "check dams" were designed to slow the flow of water as it enters the development.
• Sedimentation Pond:
By slowing the water down, the wetlands allow suspended dirt and debris to settle in a specific "sedimentation pond" before the water reaches the main
lake body. This ensures the lake remains clear and maintains high water quality.
• Replacement of Lost Land: The developer, Bill Hoyt, noted that conservationists required the replacement of wetlands that were disturbed or built over during construction.
• Conservation efforts: Five acres of wetlands were being restored, and the Department of Conservation planned to stock the lake with bass and crappie.
• The 82-acre lake: Excavation was nearly complete, with plans to dam the area in October and have it filled by the end of the year.
• A "horseshoe" spillway: A unique design with two sluice gates to control the lake's water level and manage sediment.
Just Add Water
As reported in the Rockford Register Star article by Fred Tannenbaum dated, December 24, 1996; Just Add Water; the floodgates were officially lowered on December 23rd to begin filling the signature 82-acre lake at Westlake Village. The event marks the start of the community's centerpiece feature, powered by the waters of Coolidge Creek.
Technical & Environmental Features
• The Dam & Spillway:
The spillway was designed by Hanson Engineers of Rockford; the general contractor was Civil Construction of Freeport. The earthen dam was built by Rockford Blacktop. “The dam is equipped with a sonic depthsensing system that automatically raises the gates during periods of high water to lessen flooding and prevent silt buildup, “ Bill Hoyt said.
• Water Management:
While the lake fills, the natural flow of Coolidge Creek into the Pecatonica River is only being reduced by about 15%, ensuring the local ecosystem remains stable.
• Lake Specs:
Once the water reaches the spillway, the lake will maintain an average depth of 7 to 8 feet
Infrastructure and Amenities
While the last eight months of 1996 were dedicated to unseen utilities (water, gas, and sewer), the “above-ground” structures were now taking shape! The shift from "groundwork" to "visible changes" was a major theme for 1997… To be continued:
Nextmonth: Residential Progress and Sales
We appreciate you!
The Westlake Village’s Communication Committee is grateful for the support our advertisers have given us — in order provide youfree of chargethe WLV Villager. Not only do they support us, but they are strong supporters of community programs and services in our surrounding area, -often without fan-fare. We encourage you to patronize these sponsors and if you have a moment, please post your positive reviews on social media to let them know they are appreciated and are an essential part of what makes our community the very best place to live!
Thank you!
In Pecatonica, the Memorial Day Parade is far more than just a local event; it is widely recognized as the longest-running parade in Northern Illinois and the second largest in the entire state.
Key Highlights of the Pecatonica Tradition:
The Flyover:
Traditionally, the parade kicks off at 2:00 PM sharp with a military plane flyover that echoes across Main Street, setting a somber yet powerful tone.
The Scale:
Despite Pecatonica’s size, the parade often features over 80 participants, including marching bands, classic cars, equestrian units, and the iconic "Huge American Flag" that is flown over the route.
Main Street Magic:
This year the parade will start on 3rd Street from John Street, down 3rd to Main Street, from 3rd Street straight down Main Street ending on 7th Street.
The Civil War Roots of the
"Pec" Parade
• In 1868, General John A. Logan (an Illinoisan himself) issued General Order No. 11, officially establishing "Decoration Day."
• The Village of Pecatonica was officially incorporated in 1869 making it 157 years old as of 2026.
• In 1870, the first Pecatonica Memorial Day Parade was organized to honor the men who served in the Civil War. In 2026, the parade marks its 156th consecutive year, a streak that dates back to the very earliest days of the holiday (then called Decoration Day) shortly after the Civil War.
• The parade was originally organized by The Grand Army of the Republic, the local GAR post the fraternal organization for Union Veterans. In the early years, the marchers weren't just descendants; they were the men who had served in the Illinois Volunteer Infantry regiments.
• The parade route traditionally serves as a symbolic bridge to the local cemetery. It's worth noting that Pecatonica is the final resting place for dozens of Civil War veterans who survived the horrors of battles like Shiloh and Vicksburg to return home and build the community we know today.
The "Pec Thing" Weekend:
The parade serves as the grand finale to a massive weekend in the village, coinciding with "Pec Thing", the antique market at the Winnebago County Fairgrounds on May 16th & 17th.
A Living Timeline:
As we return from our own travels this spring, let’s make the short drive to Pecatonica. Watching the 156th parade isn’t just about the candy or the flyover; it’s about standing in the footprint of history. It is a rare chance to witness a tradition that has survived 30 U.S. Presidencies and two World Wars, reminding us that in Winnebago County, we never forget.
South Benton Street.
The Many Seasons of Motherhood:
On Sunday, May 10, we pause to celebrate Mother’s Day. In 2026, the conversation has moved beyond the "perfect gift" toward a deeper appreciation for the diverse roles mothers play across a lifetime. Whether she is cradling a newborn, guiding a teenager, or sharing wisdom with her own grown children, every stage of motherhood carries its own quietbrandofheroism.
The Early Years: The Season of Presence
For the new mother or the mother of toddlers, the days are often long, and the nights are even longer. This stage isn't about grand gestures; it’s about the resilience required for the "invisible work" the constant soothing, the sleepless patience, and the boundless energy. Honoring a young mother this year means acknowledging that her presence is her greatest gift, even when she feels most exhausted.
The Middle Years: The Season of Guidance
As children grow into their own identities, a mother’s role shifts from "protector" to "navigator." These are the years of carpools, sideline cheering, and the delicate balance of holding on while letting go. To honor the mother in this
Westlake Village is home to many hidden gems, and this month, the WLV Bookworms is shining a spotlight on one them!
Broken Blossoms
by Jennifer N. Lloyd
Jennifer is loving life in Westlake Village and you will often see her enjoying the outdoors with her husband, Rob and their daughter, Nora walking their two dogs, Mia& Dexter!
We are thrilled to have her join our discussion this month to share her writing process and the inspiration behind hersecond andlatestrelease; BrokenBlossoms. Whether you are a regular Bookworms member or have been waiting for the right moment to join us, this is an afternoon youwon’twanttomiss!
Jade and Oliver long to start a family, believing that parenthood will be their greatest journey yet. But as they navigate the unexpected challenges of infertility, their hope is tested in ways they never imagined. Surrounded by well-meaning but often hurtful comments from friends and family, Jade and Oliver find themselves at a breaking point. Will their love be enough if their dream never comes true? Or will their greatest adventure be discovering how to find joy in life and each other despite the odds? In this poignant dual-perspective romance, Jade and Oliver must face the hardest question of all: Can love endure when dreams seem out of reach?
The WLV Bookworms Meet:
WLV Community Center: 3677 Westlake Village Dr. Next meeting: May 14, 2026 2:00 PM
New members are always welcome! Please RSVP : Joleen Petit: 779-537-0814
Please come even if you haven’t read the book. Bring your own beverage.
Jennifer N. Lloyd
PCMS Evening with the STARS
On Thursday May 7th, 2026, Pecatonica Middle School is having their annual event, “Evening with the STARS.” STARS stands for Students in Technology, Art, Reading and Science. The event is from 5-7 PM and the food trucks are open from 4-7PM.
• Ms. Houghton will be displaying a Middle School Art show with projects from all grades & Photo Booth led by the Yearbook Committee ($1.00)
• 5th grade students will display their Pop bottle projects and Solar System Projects.
• 6th grade students will present their “Wax Museum” literature projects, Plant/Animal cell models & Organ System Projects
• 7th grade students will display their Ecosystem Food Webs and Scale Model Projects, Physical and Chemical changes, Greek God & Goddess Posters
• 8th grade students will be presenting their energy house, and community will vote on their favorite
• Mrs. Kime’s class will have plant cell models on display
• Mrs. Shippy's class will have their Greek God Book projects on display
Special Presentation from Music Department
May 2, 2026 ~ 6 PM to 10 PM
Location: Venetian Club
Grand March @ 4:30
Tickets on Sale: April 7th-17th
Tickets are $40
4:00
Golf Course
DATE
05/01/2026
05/02/2026 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
05/06/2026
Friends of the Library Book Sale 1000's of barely-used kids books! Lots of puzzles, CD's and DVD's, Call Paula Black: (815) 335-2568 to volunteer or to donate.
Every Wed. 10:30 AM Story Time and Crafts
5/6/2026
05/13/2026
05/20/2026
05/27/2026
Every Wednesday! Bring the little ones to hear a story and make a related craft. Great opportunity for moms to meet other moms, little ones to make friends & discover new story books!
2:00 PM 4:00 PM Beginning Watercolor Class Beginning Watercolor Class. This is a 4 week course. REGISTRATION REQUIRED - $10 Registration Fee.
05/07/2026 10:30 AM Homeschool Book Arts Workshop -
05/12/2026 1:00 PM 6:00 PM RRVBC Blood Drive at the Winnebago Library
1st Thurs of each month. Each month will feature a new craft making, using or related to books. REGISTRATION REQUIRED! Ages 5-7 must have one on one parent or adult assistance. Ages 8+ may work independently. FREE - all supplies provided.
Meets 1st and 3rd Thursday each month, in Community Room. Free to join and play!
05/12/2026 6:30 PM Book Club - Adults Meets second Monday each month. The May selection is: The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
05/14/2026 10:30 - 12:30 PM Adult Book Arts Workshop
Meets 2nd Thursday each month. They will feature a new craft , making, using or related to books. All supplies provided. Free workshop! REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
05/19/2026 10:30 AM Adult Book Bingo Meets third Tuesday each month. Cool bookish prizes and refreshments. No registration required.
05/21/2026 10:30 - 11:30 AM Homeschool Book Bingo Third Thursday each month. Bingo, snacks and cool bookish prizes! No registration required.
815-239-2616
https://pecatonicalibrary.org/
05/04/2026
05/27/2026
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Quilters Group Held 1st Monday and 4th Wednesday every month.
05/05/2026 every Wed, 11:00 AM Story Time Geared towards ages 2-5. The children will hear stories, do crafts, and have a snack with their story time friends.
05/07/2026
05/21/2026 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Quilter’s Swap For Quilters
05/14/2026 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Bunco
05/11/2026 7:00 PM Coffee and Conversation
Come join the fun! No experience needed just luck of the dice!
Come meet “Local Legend” Jim Sacia
May 11, 2026 7:00
PM
Meet the man who traded an FBI badge for a seat in the Illinois House. This month, we’re hosting Pecatonica’s own Jim Sacia. Pull up a chair, grab a cup of coffee, and settle in for an evening of riveting tales and local history as Jim discusses his extraordinary life as; President and CEO of NITE Equipment, Inc., Author of Not in My Wildest Dreams: Memoirs of a Veteran FBI Agent, and as a Republican member of the Illinois House of Representatives, representing the 89th District.
We’re keeping the details under wraps so you can hear them straight from the source!
A vacationing couple celebrates their anniversary at a Greek restaurant in Palm Springs but will the marriage survive the service? As a needy waiter insinuates his way into their meal and their lives the couple examines their past and their future together. Playwright Wendy MacLeod brings us a tender comedy that delves deeply into what we hunger for.
PERFORMANCE DATES
Friday May 8 @ 7:30 PM
Saturday May 9 @ 7:30 PM
Sunday May 10 @ 2:00 PM
Friday May 15 @ 7:30 PM
Saturday May 16 @ 2:00 PM
Saturday May 16 @ 7:30 PM
Sunday May 17 @ 2:00 PM
Tickets are only $18 and on sale NOW for Slow Food and can be purchased by calling our box office at 815-239-1210 or CLICK HERE to go directly to the ticket site.
DATE TIME EVENT
05/10/2026
05/16/2026
05/17/2026
05/31/2026
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
LOCATION
Lady and The Tramp music Lena Brewing Co. Lena , IL
Salt Restaurant Rockford, IL
DC Estate Winery-Beloit WI
Hogs & Hydrants, Durand, IL
05/11/2026 7:00 PM Coffee and Conversation with Jim Sacia
05/23/2026 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Adventure Trails Family Scavenger Hunt
05/26/2026 2:00 PM sharp 156th Annual Pecatonica Memorial Day Parade
SAVE-THE-DATE
06/11/2026
06/12/2026
06/13/2026
4:00 PM-8:00 PM 9:00 AM-5:00 PM 9:00 AM 3:00 PM WLV Community Garage Sale
Pecatonica Public Library 400 W 11th Street
Pecatonica, IL
SOMETHING YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU GO…
Pro musical duo, Lady and The Tramp, better known as your WLV neighbors, Renee and Bill Kopp. Great vocal harmonies and incredible guitar solos! Timeless rock, jazz.
Come meet “Local Legend” Jim Sacia and settle in for an evening of riveting tales and local history!
