Community Corner

Update: Chicago Heights Mayor David Gonzalez Wins 'Person of the Year'

The nominees are in. Let us know who should be the person of the year.

Updated at 12:16 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 31.

Chicago Heights Mayor David Gonzalez took the top honors for Person of the Year, with Margaret Burns-Westmeyer and the Rev. Walter Mosby pulling in tons of votes as well.

Let us know what you think about the mayor's win!

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Below is a list of all the nominees and the reasons they were nominated.

Police Chief Michael Camilli - "He works very hard every day making decisions to ensure that Chicago Heights is as safe as it can be, so that it's a place where children can play in the streets without the threat of danger or harm. Not to mention, that is is a very respectable man who can say that he truly cares about his work after 35 years in service. Chicago Heights is lucky to have him."

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"Bringing police duties back to the fundamentals with such initiatives such as 'walking the beat' and bicycle patrols (which the business owners and citizens loved) during the summer to securing the funds for the new 911 center and seeing the rebuilt through."

Mayor David Gonzalez - "After the death of his best friend, Alex Lopez, he picked up the torch and continued the late mayor's legacy of public service. Not an experienced campaigner, Gonzalez put together a grassroots group of at least 20 candidates and led nearly all of them to victory. This ensures that we will have top-quality representatives in all facets of local government. He has also joined the Illinois Tollway Authority board of directors, bringing prestige and, hopefully, business opportunities to the Southland. Mr. Gonzalez is a rising star in the area and we should all be proud of him."

Rev. Walter Mosby () - "For the past five years his church has fed and helped  homeless people in Chicago Heights."

Ald. Willie White - "The late Willie White did so much for this city and got so little in return. Coat drives, turkey giveaways...you name it, Mr. White took care of his ward and his city in any way he could."

Dorothy Hajdys-Clausen (Advocate of Repealing 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell')- "Ms. Hajdys-Clausen really showed strength and courage by standing up for what happened to her son. She helped change national laws and really made a difference for the better."

Margaret Burns-Westmeyer (Chicago Heights Beautification Committe) - "Very outgoing person, willing to giver her time to help out the community!  Volunteers to work with children at the once a month, and has worked at it for several years!"

Joe Faso (Local Business Owner and Former Alderman) - "Dedication in bringing light to the integrity of Chicago Heights politics."

Father John Siemianowski (St. Agnes Parish) - "He gives of himself tirelessly everyday all year long, often moving between two parishes. Both and . He is in touch with the kids in the community and the sisters he assists in the running of both churchs and St. Agnes School." 

Fernando Desiderio - "Started non-profit group called Second Ward Alliance for Community Advancement. Volunteered his time coaching soccer to Garfield Elementary students. Comes to and mentors troubled students. He also is a Marine Corp Reservist."  

Pete Petrouski - "Has worked hard to promote Historic Preservation, is the chair of the , worked hard to organize clean up efforts and 100 year celebration for . Does this work selflessly and truly with the best interests of the community in mind."

Ellen Castro (Customer Service Supervisor/Outreach Specialist at the City Clerk's Office) - "She is always kind, nice, helpful, and available if you need her or have a question or problem."

This poll closes at 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 30.


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