More upgrades are on tap for Westville’s Zamberletti Park. The Westville Youth Sports Leagues and Zamberletti Park Capital Improvement Commission are cooperating on the effort. Their next goal is to expand an existing concession stand and add a new announcers booth for youth football. New storage space and restroom facilities are also planned with the additions.
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted a gun raffle being held to raise funds to help with the improvements. But efforts are continuing to sell as many tickets as possible before June 30th. ‘’We are giving away 14 guns or $300 cash (each day) during this 14-day raffle event,’’ said Jeff Slavik, Chairman of the Zamberletti Park Improvement Commission.
‘’Unfortunately, the virus pandemic has taken its toll just like everything else, resulting in slow sales,’’ said Westville Recreation League President Jerry Beckley. He added it was very unfortunate Westville had to cancel its Rec League season this year. He says they are hoping to be able to have youth football even though other games this summer were cancelled.
‘’We have one of the nicest parks around and have done a lot of things already such as all the restroom upgrades,’’ said Westville Mayor Mike Weese. He noted new security cameras and HVAC repairs have already been completed. ‘’With the high cost of everything, and uncertainty of Village funds due to the pandemic everything has slowed down,’’ added Weese, ‘’however, we are committed to help and support these fundraising efforts.’’
The Westville Recreation League and Westville Youth Football League, Zamberletti Park Capital Improvement Commission, Village of Westville, and some local businesses have been actively selling the raffle tickets for several months. The drawings will begin July 1st, 2020 with winners decided by the Midday Illinois Lottery number.
Tickets may be purchased at the Westville Gas and Water office, Latoz Hardware, or from representatives of the various organizations involved.
Gary Delhaye, Zamberletti Park Committee Chairman, says they are also planning an evening of raffle at Westville American Legion Post 51 once the coronavirus pandemic ends and allows it. Anyone interested in donating items or being a sponsor for that event can contact Delhaye at 304-917-1823 or Chris Gallion at 217-474-3100.
