Pebble Creek Block Party salutes 52 years of community service

A group of neighbors in the Pebble Creek community in Palatine recently held a block party that included a surprise “thank you” to a resident, Howard Westphal, described as “one of the most active and energetic supporters of ‘all things Pebble Creek’” for the past 52 years.

Some examples of Westphal’s community service:

• He lets the village officers/officials know frequently of any structural issues in Pebble Creek: power, water, electrical, landscape, etc. problems. He is always monitoring, reporting and helping resolve any problems.

• He reaches out and helps many neighbors who have problems with their health, disability or taking care of their daily living.

• He has very actively participated in many homeowner meetings and has helped decorating our beautiful neighborhood with Christmas decorations. He has collected and put together picture albums of the history of Pebble Creek.

• Known by some as “the Eveready Battery” he thrives on helping so many people not only in Pebble Creek but also with countless volunteer hours at his parish and school, Immanuel Lutheran Church and School.

• He is a “fountain of knowledge” who has helped many community members with referrals to his network of contractors, handymen, etc.

The party set an attendance record of more than 100 people including many young people who enjoyed four hours of fun with many games, a bounce house and a visit by some trucks of the Palatine Fire Department. Howard Westphal received more than 35 thank you notes, letters and cards from families and friends.