Downtown Skokie’S 5 Promotion - Shop Local! During the Week of January 2, 2012, All Skokie 3

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Comingin Skokie Together 2012 See page five for full details! NewSk kie January/February 2012 The award-winning municipal information source

Skokie Nuisance Ordinance How it Works and How it Helps In March 2009, the Village two or more Class A misde- to information and belief of a or other Community Develop- Board adopted a nuisance re- meanors occur on the prem- need for police service, health ment staff concerning the con- duction ordinance in response ises during a 12-month inspectors or other health per- dition of the property or its to community concerns over period, or if an unreasonably sonnel regarding a public use by its occupants. The or- properties that generate an ex- high number of calls for serv- health concern, firefighters or dinance allows the committee traordinarily high number of ice are generated in a 12- fire inspectors concerning the to determine the number or calls for service to the Police month period. The types of safety of the property and/or range of these calls that con- Department, Property Stan- calls that are tracked pertain property standard inspectors Continued on page six dards Division or Health De- partment. Municipal Electrical Aggregation When a property is identified A 2009 Illinois law permits municipalities to contract with alternative electric suppliers for the as creating a “public nui- electricity used by residents and small businesses. By purchasing electricity in this manner, the sance”, Village staff review the Village expects to save money for those customers. In order for the Village to pursue such a pro- situation and implement cor- gram, Skokie residents must approve of the concept by referendum. As such, a public question rective action. The Village will be submitted to Skokie voters at the March 20, 2012 primary election, as follows: Manager appointed a Nui- sance Intervention and Pre- Shall the Village of Skokie have the authority to arrange for the supply of electricity for its residential vention Committee that meets and small commercial retail customers who have not opted out of such program? monthly to review properties Residents should watch for additional information to be distributed prior to the referendum that in question. The ordinance will provide details on municipal electrical aggregation. Questions should be directed to stipulates that a property is a Max Slankard, Public Works Director, at 847/933-8427 or [email protected].  public nuisance if a felony or Play the Downtown Skokie’s 5 Promotion - Shop Local! During the week of January 2, 2012, all Skokie 3. When you turn in your completed card, the residences will receive a colorful purple postcard business will give you a small gift of up to $5 that serves as a game card for the new Down- value. You might get a complimentary appetizer town Skokie 5 promotion. At press time, 30 or dessert, a decorative button, bicycle tire patch Downtown Skokie businesses were participating, kit, small jar of touch-up paint, flower, etc. Prizes with more expected to join (see list on page eight, are subject to change and are at the sole discre- and visit www.skokiedowntown.org for updates). tion of the participating business. The Downtown Skokie 5 promotion runs 4. Get a new card and start playing again! All through May 31, 2012, and this is how it works: participating businesses will have blank cards, and supplies also will be available at Village Hall, 1. Bring the game card to any participating busi- the Skokie Public Library and other Downtown ness in Downtown Skokie. When you make a Skokie locations. purchase ($5 minimum), ask for a special sticker 5. Around the first day of every month, a $50 gift for your card. One sticker per purchase. certificate to a Downtown Skokie business will be 2. When you have five stickers on your card, fill awarded by random drawing from all completed out the card with your name, address, email and cards turned in the previous month. Winners phone number and bring it to any participating will be notified by email. Downtown Skokie business. Continued on page eight 82708_Village Alts_24227 12pg v3 12/27/11 10:26 AM Page 2

 VillageNotes 

Spotlight on the Skokie Board of Health The Board of Health (BOH) serves as an advisory committee to the Mayor, Trustees and Health Director on mat- ters relating to the health needs of Skokie residents, on environmental conditions that affect the health of residents and the Skokie Blood Program. Recently, the BOH increased blood donations by offering new blood donation venues at the Skokie Farmers’ Market and at Westfield Old Orchard Mall. The BOH joined the national effort to support initiatives promoting healthy eating and physical activity by participating in the Skokie Trail to Fitness program and assisting in the Village’s suc- cessful grant application for funds to design a multi-use path extending from Oakton Street to Jarvis Avenue along From left to right, back row to front: Commissioners Mike Shah, Romil Sood, the Union Pacific right-of-way. Dr. Herb Lipschultz, Dr. Marc Herwitz, staff liaison Bruce Jones, Dr. Stanton Polin, Dr. Bruce Gaynes, Dr. Daniel Vicencio, Dr. Edward Kaplan, Dr. William Recognizing the importance of concussion prevention and Plotkin, Milton Nidetz, Dr. Zia Usman, Stanley Lapidos, Rohit Pandya, appropriate treatment, the BOH offered a concussion and Lloyd Gordon, Dr. Lesley Luka, Director of Health Dr. Catherine Counard, heat injury seminar for Skokie school officials. Addition- Chairman Dr. A. Michael Drachler, Dr. Nancy Topouzian and Ruth Varma. ally, the BOH recently recommended amending the Smok- Not pictured: Commissioner Dr. M. Nudelman, Trustee Michele Bromberg, ing in Public Places Ordinance to help protect young Trustee Pramod Shah, Clifford Prince and Patricia Urbanus. people from tobacco addiction.  Who’s Who: Dr. A. Michael Drachler, Board of Health Chairman How many years have you been on the Board What is your profession? of Health? I am an Obstetrician/Gynecologist and have I have been a member of the Board of Health been in private or group practice for 30 years. since 2002, nine years. Currently, I am a member of the NorthShore University HealthSystem Medical Group. How many years have you been Chair of the Board of Health? How long have you lived in Skokie? I have been Chairman for one year. I’m sorry to say I don’t live in Skokie, I work in Skokie. My office is located at 9977 Woods Why did you seek a volunteer position on the Drive. I started working in Skokie in 1995 Board of Health? when I became Chairman of the Department I have always believed in giving back to the of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Rush community and the Skokie Board of Health pro- NorthShore Medical Center. vided an excellent opportunity to use my medical knowledge and experience to contribute to What is your favorite shop or restaurant the health and well being of the citizens of in Skokie? Skokie and the surrounding communities. Dr. A. Michael Drachler My favorite shop in Skokie is Kaufman’s Board of Health Chairman What BOH program gives you the great- Bagel & Delicatessen and I look forward to its est sense of satisfaction? reopening after construction is completed. I am most proud of working to make Skokie the first municipality in Illinois to ban smoking in indoor public places. If you would like further information on how to become an active member of the Skokie community, or information on volunteer opportunities, please contact the Mayor's office at 847/933-8269 or visit www.skokie.org to download a Board and Commissions application. You can also find volunteer opportunities at www.SkokieServes.com

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Skokie-Oakton Swift Station Update Construction at the new CTA Skokie-Oakton Yellow Station in Downtown Skokie is nearly complete. Exterior work is nearly finished, the roofing is almost finished and concrete sidewalks, decorative paver bricks and landscaping are complete. The structure painting and granite flooring are complete and look great. Train signal work is underway and preparations are being made to connect these to the existing train signal system. The CTA equipment installation will occur soon along with the ceilings, cabi- nets and counter tops for the customer assistance kiosks. The CTA also is working on aligning and profiling the tracks. Compass Rose outside of the Service from the station is expected to begin early in 2012 and a ribbon cutting is planned for late South Station House. spring or early summer 2012.  Things to do in Skokie this Winter Season Shop Local this Winter Find Your Inner Artist Do you want to decrease your carbon footprint and improve the Got cabin fever? Get inspired! Find your inner artist by visiting a community? The easiest way to do this is to shop local. Skokie is Skokie art gallery, exhibit or a Skokie art studio for lessons. home to hardware stores, unique boutiques, fruit markets, bak- Go Trek in the Snow eries, specialty shops, etc. Become a regular at a local shop and It’s cold and time to be bold… visit the Emily Oaks Nature Center see how nice it is to be remembered when you visit. The Village to rent snow shoes and trek the trails within the nature center. Deer, recently launched a new Shop Local Skokie Facebook page, at rabbit and owls call Emily Oaks home, come find out why. Visit www.facebook.com/ShopLocalSkokie. www.skokieparks.org for more details. Go Ice Skating Be Romeo...or Juliet Grab your ice skates and glide away on the new Skatium Ice Don’t be in the dog house…Valentine’s Day is on its way and Skokie Rink. The newly renovated center not only rents ice skates, but is home to various florists and sweet shops to help make your also offers daily public skating hours during the holiday break sweetheart feel loved. and touts a new café that will satisfy any craving. Visit www.skokieparks.org for details. Enjoy Breakfast with Books Celebrate Elvis’s Birthday Put your listening ears on, grab the little ones, a hat and scarf and join the Youth Services staff at the Skokie Public Library to enjoy Grab your blue suede shoes and celebrate Elvis’ 77th birthday the Breakfast with Books family event on January 14 and February with your friends. The North Shore Center for Performing Arts 11, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. The library will share some of their favorite in Skokie, 9501 Skokie Boulevard, hosts a concert celebrating the books while enjoying a light breakfast snack. While at the Library, era-by-era musical career of Elvis Presley on January 5, 2012. check out one of this year’s Coming Together in Skokie books (see Contact the North Shore Center for Performing Arts in Skokie at page five for more information). 847/673-6300 for ticket availability. Attend Return of Pizza Wars Celebrate the Chinese New Year Chinese New Year is January 23, 2012 – welcome the year of the Visit Niles West High School on Thursday, January 19 at 6 p.m. dragon by dining at your favorite Skokie Chinese restaurant. Keep for the Return of Pizza Wars. This fundraising event allows the the Chinese New Year bells ringing and see the Chinese Golden best pizzerias in town to battle for your vote with hot, gooey Dragon Acrobats on February 4, 2012 at the North Shore Center for slices of paradise. Tickets are $10 per person; $12 at the door, Performing Arts in Skokie, 9501 Skokie Boulevard. Contact the with proceeds benefiting District 219 students. Visit North Shore Center for Performing Arts in Skokie at 847/673-6300 www.219foundation.org for more information. for ticket availability. Make a Pie Attend a Lecture January 23, 2012 is National Pie Day. Visit the Skokie Public Li- Visit the recently constructed Art, Science, and Technology Pavilion brary and check out a recipe book on baking pies or the history at Oakton Community College’s Ray Hartstein Campus, 7701 North of pies, then visit a local Skokie bakery to have instant pie- Lincoln Avenue. Check Oakton’s website, www.oakton.edu for a ification. Make a pie, eat a pie, exchange pie recipes in celebra- schedule of lectures that are open to the public and consider taking tion of this tasty day! a non-credit course in yoga, finance, photography or gardening.  NewSkokie • Page 3 82708_Village Alts_24227 12pg v3 12/27/11 10:26 AM Page 4

 VillageNotes 

2011 Tax Levy Marks 21st Year of Property Tax Freeze The Skokie Village Board term. This represents a 17.8% proved instrumental in turning property tax bill was 15.22%. In adopted a 2011 property tax cost reduction from the prior a vacant section of the mall, 2010, the Village’s share was an levy that is identical to the Vil- contract. Through federal previously occupied by Mont- average 7.15%. This has been lage’s 1990 levy, marking the grant funding, Skokie Village gomery Ward, into the Nord- sustained through austere fi- twenty-first consecutive year of Hall is being retrofitted with en- strom store that is present today. nancial times, without an im- the Board’s self-imposed prop- ergy efficient technology in- Subsequently, the Village made pact on Skokie’s excellent erty tax freeze. The 2011 tax cluding new lighting and a priority of establishing a re- municipal services. I commend levy presented to the Village windows. In addition, the Vil- search and development cam- my colleagues on the Village Board on December 5 for first lage eliminated curbside collec- pus in Downtown Skokie and Board and all Village staff for consideration amounts to tion of grass clippings two years collaborated with Forest City their hard work to continue $15,456,695, which is identical ago, providing an annual cost Enterprises to bring the Illinois Skokie’s property tax freeze in to the 1990 levy. Approval is ex- savings and environmental Science + Technology Park to light of challenging economic pected at the December 19, benefits to the community. the community. The nearly 24- times.” 2011 Village Board meeting. acre park currently has 18 ten- In addition, a portion of the an- ants with more than 1,300 Without a property tax freeze, “The Village Board approved a nual property tax levy funds employees, and the park contin- annual increases could have five-year property tax freeze in some of the Village’s capital im- ues to grow at a steady pace de- mirrored changes in the con- 1991. Due to prudent budgeting provements. The Village con- spite the slow national economy. sumer price index. Had the Vil- and a progressive approach to tinues to maintain its vehicle Prior to both of these economic lage of Skokie adjusted its levy economic development, the Vil- fleet by replacing vehicles development initiatives, the Vil- annually for inflation since 1990, lage has been able to sustain the through cash purchases instead lage invested $6 million to assist the 2011 levy would have been property tax freeze for an addi- of borrowing funds for vehicle in establishing Village Crossing $26,600,178, which is tional 16 years, with 2011 mark- acquisition and replacement. A Shopping Center. Private invest- $11,143,483 higher than the ac- ing the twenty-first year of the recent example is the cash pur- ments in all three of these proj- tual 2011 levy of $15,456,695. It Village Board’s commitment to chase of a replacement Fire ects exceeded the Village’s also equates to a nearly 72.1% hold the line on the Village’s Pumper Truck for $545,000. investments tenfold, and re- increase over the 2011 levy, and share of property taxes,” com- would have resulted in an aver- The Village’s economic develop- sulted in long-term economic mented Mayor George Van benefits to the community. age $326 increase to the average Dusen. ment strategy stimulates private annual residential property tax investment within specific areas Mayor Van Dusen stated, “The bill. A tradition of prudent budget- of the community and ulti- Village’s ongoing commitment ing year after year demonstrates mately results in both an in- to investing in significant eco- Tax bills contain a number of Skokie’s commitment to fiscal creased tax base and nomic development projects different components, with dif- responsibility. Recently, the Vil- employment opportunities. In and our austere approach to ferent government agencies re- lage authorized an agreement the 1990s, the Village deter- budgeting has resulted in meas- sponsible fore the various with a new waste hauler for mined that the risk-reward for urable property tax relief to the components. For example, the condominium services which investing in a parking structure community. In 1990, the Vil- Cook County Assessor deter- will save the Village $906,678 for the Old Orchard Mall was lage’s share of an average Skokie mines property value, assess- over the proposed seven-year worthwhile, and the investment ment level, assessed value, equalized assessed value and ex- emption for homeowners, sen- Holiday Light Recycling and Removal ior citizens, etc. The only level of control the Village of Skokie has The Village of Skokie and the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County (SWANCC) are offer- over property tax bills is relative ing a free Holiday Light Recycling Program. All holiday string lighting and extension cords can be to its annual tax levy. For more dropped off at Village of Skokie - Public Works, 9050 Gross Point Road, Monday through Friday, information on Skokie’s portion 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. through January 27, 847/933-8427.  of property taxes visit www.skokie.org.  Remember to remove holiday decorations and lighting early in the New Year. In accordance with the Village of Skokie adopted 2008 National Electric Code section 590.3 (B), temporary electric power and lighting installations shall be permitted for a period not to exceed 90 days for holiday decorative lighting and similar purposes. For more information, please contact the Property Standards Division at 847/933-8224. 

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 BoardReport 

Village Board Action

The Village is committed to major physical improvements to Downtown Skokie, including both Oakton Street and Lincoln Avenue. With priority placed on pedestrian safety, key physical im- The Skokie Village Board provements in Downtown Skokie will include pavement resurfacing, street light/traffic signal up- meets the first and third grades and streetscape improvements. The Board authorized a contract for schematic and Mondays of each month, ex- detailed design of Downtown Skokie physical improvements with Gewalt Hamilton. cept in the case of a holiday. Additionally, the Village Board authorized discussions with the Cook County Highway Department Meetings begin at 8 p.m. in regarding a jurisdictional transfer of Oakton Street from Skokie Boulevard to Long Avenue from the Council Chambers at Cook County to the Village. A jurisdictional transfer will allow the Village more control of Oakton Skokie Village Hall, 5127 Street in Downtown Skokie. Because of its location through Downtown Skokie, the Village already Oakton Street. does substantial maintenance of Oakton Street including snow plowing, street sweeping, litter con- Watch Village Board trol, landscaping, landscape baskets, street lights and banners, sewer and water main maintenance Meetings on and parking meter maintenance/enforcement.  SkokieVision Cable Television (Channel 25 Coming Together in Skokie on RCN systems, The Village of Skokie, Niles Township High School District 219 and Skokie Public Library invite every- Channel 17 on Com- one to participate in the 2012 Coming Together in Skokie initiative. This year, Coming Together in cast systems). The Skokie celebrates the Assyrian culture. The program is a unique collaboration between many different Board Meetings are community groups and presents a valuable opportunity for Skokie residents to participate in an en- broadcast at noon riching learning experience. The program begins in January and continues through March 2012. and 8 p.m. on the Skokie residents are encouraged to read a number of books in early 2012 that provide insight in the Thursday, Saturday Assyrian culture, including: and Tuesday follow- ing a Board Meeting. Gilgamesh: A New Rendering in English Verse by David Ferry Upcoming Home is Beyond the Mountains by Celia Barker Lottridge Children of War: Voices of Iraqi Refugees by Deborah Ellis Public Meetings These books were selected to appeal to a variety of ages, from middle school through adults. The committee hopes that residents and students will participate in book discussion groups at the library All meetings are held at and high schools and in special events sponsored by these and other community organizations such Village Hall (5127 Oakton as the Niles Township ELL Parent Center, Oakton Community College and the Skokie Park District. Street). Copies of each book are available at the Skokie Public Library. Board of Trustees: The opening celebration for the 2012 Coming Together in Skokie initiative will be held on Sunday, Jan- January 3, 17 uary 29, 2012, at Niles West High School, 5701 Oakton Street. An exhibition of Assyrian art and cul- February 6, 21 ture opens at 2:30 p.m., and the cultural program begins at 3:15 p.m. The Coming Together in Skokie committee, along with the Assyrian community, invites everyone to this special celebration of Assyr- Plan Commission: ian culture. The event includes a brief historical summary, music and dance, an introduction to As- January 5, 19 syrian wedding practices and the first-person narratives of Assyrian students. For a full list of February 2, 16 Coming Together in Skokie programs, including details on presentations by authors Celia Barker Lot- Appearance Commission: tridge and Deborah Ellis at the Skokie Public Library, visit http://ComingTogether.skokielibrary.info January 11 or call 847/673-7774. February 8 The Coming Together in Skokie initiative is intended to build knowledge, awareness and appreciation Zoning Board of Appeals: of different cultures and backgrounds. The first Coming Together in Skokie initiative in 2010 featured January 4, 18 the Asian Indian population, and the 2011 program focused on Filipino culture. Thousands of Skokie February 1, 15 residents from many cultures and countries participated in the first two Coming Together in Skokie initiatives by attending community events and reading the designated books. It is hoped that more residents will become involved in Coming Together in Skokie in 2012.  NewSkokie • Page 5 82708_Village Alts_24227 12pg v3 12/27/11 10:26 AM Page 6

 VillageNotes 

Nuisance Ordinance Continued from front page stitute a nuisance in a specified period of time. program, and to work together with the Village on neighborhood Since its inception, the committee has deemed 47 properties/ad- issues of concern. Information on Neighborhood Watch is avail- dresses as nuisance locations. The problem situations at 35 of able through the Police Department Crime Prevention Unit, these properties have been resolved to the satisfaction of the com- 847/982-5919. mittee, and 12 remain active. Staff from the Community Develop- The Nuisance Property Ordinance is in place to protect the com- ment, Health and Police Departments, the Human Services munity. Residents are encouraged to call the Police Department Division and Village Manager’s Office continue to monitor the ‘ac- immediately if they observe suspicious activity at a property, tive’ nuisance properties and are working toward bringing the such as loud noise, youth problems, disorderly conduct and pos- properties into compliance. sible drug violations. For property standards or health code vio- When the committee deems a property as a public nuisance, a lations residents should call 847/673-0500. Also of concern are number of possible actions occur. Initially, a letter is issued to the illegal dwelling units, such as basement apartments (which are property owner from the Chief of Police and Property Standards not allowed by Village code) or overcrowding. Hazardous condi- Supervisor informing the owner that, due to a high number of tions should be reported to Property Standards, including inade- calls or contacts, their property has been deemed a nuisance. A quate exterior lighting on multi-tenant buildings, overgrown copy of the ordinance is attached, with a directive to review the lawns, etc. Property Standards Supervisor Terry Oline reports materials and implement required action to eliminate the nui- that professionally managed buildings tend to be less problem- sance condition. According to Police Chief Anthony Scarpelli, atic relative to code violations and activities that require inter- committee chairman, the vast majority of property owners re- vention from authorities. spond quickly and proactively about eliminating the nuisance If you have concerns about suspicious activity at a property, call condition. Even after a property is brought into compliance, it re- the Police Department. Always call 9-1-1 in the event of an emer- mains on the committee ‘watch list’ for at least 90 days to ensure gency, but when reporting a matter that is not an emergency, that improved conditions remain stable. please call 847/982-5900 or email [email protected]. Violations of If the initial letter does not bring about the desired change, a meet- property standards or health codes also can be emailed to [email protected] or reported to the Property Standards Division ing is set up with the property owner, Chief of Police, Property  Standards Supervisor and other appropriate Village staff to discuss at 847/933-8223. the nuisance situation and make it clear that the property owner alone is responsible for conditions at the property. An action plan Village offers is developed for nuisance elimination. Landlords are encouraged Scholarship at Oakton to speak with their tenant and put them on notice that the nuisance issue or issues, if not remedied, will result in follow up ac- Community College tion that could include non-renewal of the lease, tenant relocation In 2007, to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of the or possible eviction. Property owners also are reminded of the or- Council-Manager form of government in Skokie, the Village dinance provision that requires them to have a lease provision Board established the Skokie Excellence in Professional Gov- stating that the tenant shall not use the leased premises, or allow it ernment Management Scholarship at Oakton Community College (OCC). Each year, the OCC scholarship committee se- to be used, for criminal activity. In extreme cases, landlords can lects the scholarship recipient according to the Village’s estab- receive up to a $750 per day fine for violations and other adjudica- lished criteria, including that the recipient must live in Skokie tive action can be taken. and aspire to a career in local government. The recipient’s field of study can include law enforcement, public safety, gov- Recently, a property was brought to the Village’s attention by sev- ernment administration and other areas of curriculum that eral neighbors who called to report alleged drug activity by the oc- pertain to local government service and operations. cupant. Village staff met with the property owner, who did not renew the tenant’s lease. In another case, a neighbor contacted the Students who wish to be considered for this scholarship must complete and submit a Scholarship Application and Personal police as they also suspected illegal drug activity at a property. Statement electronically to OCC by February 29, 2012. For Upon further investigation, the authorities determined that the ac- more information contact Alex DeLonis, OCC Office of Stu- tivities were actually related to fencing stolen property. Neighbors dent Financial Assistance at [email protected] or 847/635- are encouraged to participate in the Village’s Neighborhood Watch 2624. 

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 VillageNotes 

TeenLink Install, Inspect, and Protect The Village of Skokie offers the TeenLink program to The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) launched the Install, Inspect, Pro- unite Skokie residents who are in need of outside tect, Campaign, encouraging people to install and maintain smoke seasonal yard work, including snow shoveling, raking alarms and sprinklers, practice fire escape plans and perform a home and lawn care, with Skokie teens who are available for safety walk-through. hire to do the work. The resident is responsible for contacting the teen and for making financial and The USFA recommends installing smoke alarms both inside and out- scheduling arrangements. side of sleeping areas and on every level of your home, testing them monthly and changing the batteries at least once a year. Additionally, If you would like the TeenLink contact list please call alarms that are ten years or older should be replaced as they may no the Village Manager’s Office at 847/933-8257. longer be reliable. Skokie teens can also complete an application to be For more information, visit www.usfa.dhs.gov/smokealarms or call added to the TeenLink program by contacting the the Skokie Fire Department at 847/982-5344.  Village Manager’s Office or visiting ww.skokie.org to download an application. 

When it Snows in Skokie The Plow is on the Way Here Comes the Plow Anytime the forecast calls for snow, a Skokie Public Works snow When the Village experiences multiple days of snow, the emer- commander is placed on call to monitor storm conditions and gency preparedness team works through evening hours to help oversee plowing operations. The snow commander uses com- keep ahead of conditions. It takes approximately 16 hours to puterized weather systems to gauge a storm’s intensity and pro- clear the Village’s 160 miles of roadway and 12 to 16 hours to gression. If needed, snow plowing crews are placed on alert. clear the 70 miles of alleys. Heavy snow accumulations require Refuse Pickup even more time. The first priority during a snow emergency is keeping the streets Sidewalks safe for traffic, emergency vehicles and pedestrians. Refuse Skokie is one of a few municipalities that plows residential side- pickup can be delayed when Village refuse trucks are used to as- walks. The Village plows its entire network of sidewalks when sist with plowing operations. Check www.skokie.org for updates. snow accumulations exceed four inches. After streets are cleared Alternate Side Parking of snow, special, smaller plows are dispatched to clear sidewalks. After a snowfall of two or more inches, the Alternate Side Parking Alleys Program is placed into effect. On even-numbered days, all vehi- Alleys are plowed after a 6” or greater snowfall, only after all cles are to be parked on the even-numbered side of the street. On other operational aspects of snow removal have been completed odd-numbered days all vehicles are required to park on the odd- and personnel and equipment are available. numbered side of the street. The program is in effect from 8 a.m. Plowing Responsibilities to 6 p.m. for a minimum of two days. The Village is responsible for plowing Village-owned streets. As a reminder, an alert warning siren sounds at the start of alter- Cook County and the State of Illinois own many of the Village’s nate-side parking at 7 a.m. each day the plan is in effect. Resi- major roads, such as Old Orchard Road, Crawford Avenue and dents can verify that the Alternate Side Parking Program is in Golf Road, and are responsible for plowing/salting these roads. effect by dialing 847/675-SNOW (7669), watching SkokieVision For more information on Skokie roadway jurisdictions, see the Cable, tuning into 1660 AM, signing up for email alerts through Public Works snow webpage at www.skokie.org.  Skokienews or visiting www.skokie.org.

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 VillageNotes 

Downtown Skokie Shop Local Skokie Continued from front page Facebook page All participating businesses will have a Downtown Skokie 5 poster in their window, and will be listed at www.skokiedowntown.org. A par- The Village recently launched a Shop Local Skokie Facebook tial list of participating businesses includes: fan page to promote economic development inside of Skokie. Please be sure to“like” the Shop Local Skokie Facebook page at Al's Cycle Shop Mystic Fountain Wellness Center www.facebook.com/ShopLocalSkokie to learn more about the AmerAsia Printing for Less Print Xpress wide range of businesses located in Skokie and about the ben- Annie's Pancake House Robert's Office Supply efits of shopping local. Bob's Magazine Museum Skokie Ace Hardware Bughouse Art Studio Skokie Optical Skokie is home to many unique stores and restaurants, from Cigar King Skokie Paint & Wallpaper national chains to independent shops. Shopping local helps Crafty Beaver Home Center Subway on Oakton create local jobs, saves gas/time and a portion of your sales tax De Jred Fine Jamaican Cuisine Sweety Pies Bakery comes directly back to the community. Eclissi Italian Restaurant The Curragh Irish Pub FashN Frenz Jewelry The UPS Store Get out and explore Skokie to discover how all of your shop- Gaite Salon Tondeo Traders ping, dining and entertainment needs can be met just minutes Kabul House Tub Tim Thai from your home! Libertad Village Inn Pizzeria Shop local and be sure to “like” the Shop Local Skokie Facebook Lira Beauty Salon Walgreens page to learn all that Skokie has to offer.  Marge's Flower Shop Yolo Mexican Eatery For a complete list of rules visit www.skokiedowntown.org. Play early and often! Shop local and make a difference!  Grants for Skokie Schools and Arts Organizations The Skokie Fine Arts Commis- Oakton Street. The application eligible to apply for the Cultural tions are strongly encouraged sion offers Cultural Arts Grants deadline for both grants is Mon- Arts Grant. A copy of the appli- to contact the Fine Arts Com- for Skokie schools and Project day, April 2, 2012. Skokie public cation is available at mission at 847/933-8257 or Art Grants for Skokie art organ- and private schools that host www.skokie.org. New appli- [email protected] with questions izations. Cultural Arts Grants professional visiting artists are cants and applicants with ques- regarding grant guidelines.  for Skokie schools are in the amount of $500 for fine arts programming. What I Love About Skokie Skokie not-for-profit arts organ- The Village continues to receive messages from residents with details on what they love about izations are eligible to apply for Skokie. Here are a few that have been received in recent weeks: the Project Grant. This grant is “Last winter as the big blizzard that shut everything down for a day was approaching I available in varying amounts; ran a number of errands. I ran to the hardware store for salt and a new shovel and to however, the organization sub- the gas station to fill up my car. Then I stopped for groceries and made my last stop at mitting the application must the Skokie Public Library. The longest line I was in all day was at the Library. The place make a matching financial con- was mobbed with people stocking up on books to read and movies to see. I love tribution of at least 25% of the Skokie!” Dave R., 20-year resident cost of the project. Schools and governing bodies with taxing “I grew up in Skokie and have spent almost my entire adult life here... I loved Skokie 50 powers are not eligible to re- years ago and appreciate Skokie even more now with all it has to offer!” Ellen W., 50 year ceive funding through the Vil- resident lage's Grant Programming What do you love about Skokie? Send an email to [email protected] or write to Village of Budget. Skokie, 5127 Oakton Street, Skokie, 60077, Attention: Public Information. Please include your The Fine Arts Commission of- name, address, phone and email address and the number of years you have lived in Skokie. As space permits, the Village will feature these comments in NewSkokie, on the Village web site fers a grants workshop on  Wednesday, January 11, 2012 at and in other Village outreach. 7:30 p.m. at Village Hall, 5127 NewSkokie • Page 8 82708_Village Alts_24227 12pg v3 12/27/11 10:26 AM Page 9

 HealthNotes 

Preventing Pertussis Recently, pertussis, or whooping cough, has been highlighted in Pertussis is a highly contagious disease that is preventable by the news because of an increase of pertussis cases in northern vaccination. It is easily spread from person to person through Illinois. The Skokie Board of Health recommends that all adults coughing and sneezing. Symptoms such as cough, runny nose, be vaccinated against pertussis as soon as possible. Immunity sneezing and low-grade fever can last several weeks and lead to decreases over time after childhood vaccination. Adults who have complications like pneumonia. Frequent hand washing, covering not received a booster are no longer immune. the mouth, coughing into tissues and staying home when ill are Pertussis is typically spread to young infants by adolescents or important practices to limit the spread of infection. The best way adults, usually household members. Infants too young to be im- to prevent the spread of pertussis is to be vaccinated. munized against pertussis are particularly vulnerable to severe For more information regarding pertussis and the Tdap vaccine pertussis disease. Increasing population immunity to pertussis consult with your physician or contact the Skokie Health Depart- should reduce opportunities for pertussis transmission. ment at 847/933-8252 or www.skokie.org/health.  Medical Stop Smoking Clinic Reserve Need help to stop smoking? The Skokie Health De- partment’s “Courage to Quit” program may just be Corps what you are looking for. Volunteers There is a $15 fee which covers the cost of course ma- The Skokie Health Department terials. The fee will be refunded to those participants has implemented a Medical Re- who complete the program. Group counseling and serve Corps (MRC) for inter- education are part of the program. ested medical professionals. The The six-session program begins on Monday January next orientation is scheduled 9 at 7 p.m. at the Skokie Village Hall, 5127 Oakton for January 10 at 7 p.m. at Vil- Street. lage Hall, 5127 Oakton Street. Volunteer opportunities will be The program is open to all Skokie residents and those who work in Skokie. Call 847/933-8252 for  summarized at the orientation. more information or to register. Please reserve your seat in advance to assure that adequate Guidelines for Feeding Wildlife materials are available. Many people like to feed birds wanted “guests.” and animals during the winter If you have any questions or According to Village months, but most don’t realize would like to sign up for the ori- ordinance, feeding that this practice is regulated entation, contact Claudia wildlife requires the by the Village. Braden, RN, Emergency Re- use of approved feed- sponse Coordinator at 847/933- Ground feeding can attract ers that are off the 8252.  rats, skunks and other un- ground. The feeders and the areas around Holiday Closing them must be prop- erly maintained and The Skokie Health Department will be closed on Monday, Jan- kept clean to discour- uary 2 and Monday, February 20 in observance of the New age unwanted pests. Year’s Day and Presidents’ Day holidays. No TB screening or registrar services will be available on either day. For more information about ground feeding, contact The Health Department will resume its normal operating the Health Department at schedule on Tuesday, January 3 and Tuesday, February 21.  847/933-8484. 

NewSkokie • Page 9 82708_Village Alts_24227 12pg v3 12/27/11 10:26 AM Page 10

 CommunityCalendar 

Hearing Screening* Conversational Federal Income Tax January/February Fridays, January 20 and Yiddish Program February 17 from 9 a.m. No fee or registration re- Federal Income Tax help is 2012 to noon. quired. Everyone is wel- provided free-of-charge Refuse and Recycling come. Tuesdays, Januar y starting in February to low- Stop Smoking Clinic* 17, 24, 31 and February to moderate-income senior Collection Schedule Mondays, January 9, 16, 21, 28 at 1:30 p.m. residents and those individu- 23 and 30 and February 6 als who are handicapped. Holiday Refuse Collection and 13 at 7 p.m. $15 fee. FOCUS (For Optically During the weeks of January 2 (New Year’s holi- Challenged Upbeat Simple taxes only. Please call day), January 16 (Martin Luther King holiday) Lipid Profile Sorts) 847/933-8208 for an ap- Screening* pointment or more informa- and February 20 (Presidents’ Day holiday) Wednesdays, January 11 tion. Monday collections are on Tuesday, Tuesday Tuesdays and Thursdays and February 8 from 7 to collections are on Wednesday, Thursday and from 9 a.m. to noon. 8:30 p.m. Please call U.S. Citizenship Class Wednesdays, January 4, Juanita at 847/933-8208 Thursdays at 1 p.m. at the Friday collections are unchanged. To find out 18 and February 1, 15 which days your refuse is collected please visit for more information. Smith Activities Center. from 5 to 7 p.m. $15 fee. Please call 847/933-8208 to www.skokie.org. Circuit Breaker/ Illinois register for the class. Diabetes Screening* Cares RX Holiday Recycling Collection Tuesdays, January 17 and (Formally known as Cir- CPR Schedule During the week of January 2 (New Year’s holi- February 14 from 9 a.m. cuit Breaker) Please call the Skokie Fire day) Monday collections will be on Tuesday, to noon. $5 fee. Please call 847/933-8208 Department at 847/982-5340 Tuesday collections will be on Wednesday, for an appointment. for January 17 and February Thursday and Friday collections are un- TB Skin Testing* 21 program information. Mondays and Fridays Low Vision Support Residents: $15 refundable changed. Normal collection schedules will re- Group main in effect during the Martin Luther King from 9 a.m. to noon, ex- fee. Non-residents: $20 cept Mondays, January 2 Tuesdays, January 10 and non-refundable fee. Day and Presidents’ Day holiday weeks. To find and February 20. Tues- February 14 from 1:30 to out which day your recycling is collected and days from 9 a.m. to noon 3 p.m. North Shore what items are recyclable, please visit and 1 to 4:45 p.m. $5 fee. Center for the www.skokie.org. Medicare Supplement Performing Arts in Smith Center Claims Assistance/ Skokie Health Happenings Simple Cholesterol Activities Senior Health Located at 9501 Skokie Blvd. Unless otherwise noted, Screening Located at 5120 Galitz Insurance Program For 2009 performance dates all clinics are held at the Tuesdays and Thursdays Street. Please call Selected dates, by appoint- and information please call Health Department, 5127 from 2 to 4 p.m. Wednes- 847/933-8208 for more in- ment only. the box office at 847/673- Oakton Street. Clinics days, January 4, 18 and formation or to register. Skokie Senior Men’s 6300 or visit marked with an (*) re- February 1, 15 from 5 to www.northshorecenter.org Bright Ideas ESL Class Group quire advance registra- 7 p.m. $6 fee. Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m. tion. For more Registration required. Elvis Birthday Tribute Lead Screening* Mondays and Thursdays at Weber Park, 9300 Artist Spectacular information or to register Weber Park Place. for a clinic, call 847/933- Wednesdays, Januar y 4 from 9:15 to 11:15 a.m. In the Centre East and February 1 from 2 to Theatre 8252. Woodcarving Club Needlework 4 p.m. Wednesdays, Jan- Socialization and needle- Thursday, January 5 at Immunization uary 4, 18 and February Tuesdays from 9:30 to 7:30 p.m. 11:30 a.m. Amateurs are work. Clinics* 1, 15 from 5 to 7 p.m. $25 Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. Immunizations are avail- fee. welcome. No instructor. Ars Viva Symphony able for only a $5 per per- to noon. Orchestra son clinic visit fee. Hearing Loss Support In the Centre East Body Composition Group Rules of the Road Appointments are re- Analysis* Review for driver’s exam. Theatre quired. Tuesdays and Tuesdays 9 a.m. to noon. Thursdays, January 12 Sunday, January 8 at and February 9 from 1:30 Mondays, January 9 and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to Thursdays 2 to 4 p.m. February 6 from 9:15 3 p.m. noon. Wednesdays, Janu- Wednesdays, January 4, to 3 p.m. a.m. to noon. Capital Steps ary 4, 18 and February 1, 18 and February 1, 15 Chess 15 from 5 to 7 p.m. from 5 to 7 p.m. $6 fee. Stamp Club In the Centre East Wednesdays and Fridays Theatre Wednesdays, January 11, from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays, January 4, 25 and February 8, 22 Blood Pressure 18 and February 1, 15 at Thursday, January 26 at from 2 to 4 p.m. Screening Conversational 1:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.; Friday, January 27 Tuesdays, 2 to 4 p.m. German at 8 p.m.; Saturday, January Well Child Clinic* Thursdays, 9 a.m. to Thursdays, January 5, 19 Silver Singers 28 at 5 and 8 p.m.; and Mondays, January 9 and noon. Wednesdays, Janu- and February 2, 16 at 1:30 Mondays, January 30 and Sunday, January 29 at 3 p.m. February 13 from 8:30 ary 4, 18 and February 1, p.m. February 27 at 1:30 p.m. a.m. to noon. 15 from 5 to 7 p.m. For more details, please call 847/933-8208. Continued on page 11 NewSkokie • Page 10 82708_Village Alts_24227 12pg v3 12/27/11 10:26 AM Page 11

 CommunityCalendar 

Continued from Summer Camp 2012 Teen Job Fair In a Nutshell: The Assyrians: The page 10 Open House Local employers will be Worlds of Maurice Indigenous January 11 from 6:30 to available to answer Black Pearl Sings! Sendak Exhibit Mesopotamians 7:30 p.m. Oakton Com- questions and accept Opening Wednesday, February 1 In the Northlight munity Center, 4701 employment applica- Theatre Oakton Street. tions for seasonal and Thursday, January 5 at at 7 p.m. 7 p.m. Tuesday through Sun- year-round part-time You n g Ste i nway day from January 13 to Teen Dances jobs for teens. Tuesday, February 19. Skokie teens with Teen You n g Ste i nway Concert Program IDs will get January 24 from 4 to 7 Concert Sunday, February 5 at The Music of ABBA p.m. at the Skokie Pub- their groove on the sec- lic Library. Sunday, January 8 at 3 p.m. In the Centre East ond Friday of every 3 p.m. Theatre month at the Weber Cen- Spring Program An Evening with Jabali Friday, February 3 at 8 ter Gym. January 13 and Resident Registration I Have an eReader - African Acrobats p.m. February 10 from 7 to Begins Now What? Thursday, February 9 at Chinese Golden 9:30 p.m. Weber Leisure February 15 is the first Monday, January 9 at 7 p.m. Dragon Acrobats Center, 9300 Weber Park day of Skokie resident 7 p.m. In the Centre East Place. registration for the Evanston Dance Stories of Jewish Ensemble Previews Theatre Summer Camp - Park District’s spring Saturday, February 4 at Resident Registration programs (February 22 Chicago in the “Count Me In” 1 and 5 p.m. for non-residents). Kitchen - What’s Old Sunday, February 12 at January 29 is the first Don’t wait in line, use Thodos Dance day for Skokie residents Is New 3 p.m. to register for Camps WebTrac at www.skok- Wednesday, January 11 Chicago & Luna ieparkdistrict.org for Tell Them Any thing 2012. Non-resident reg- at 7 p.m. Negra Dance Theater fast and easy service You Want: A Portrait of In the Centre East istration begins Febru- anytime. Walk-in and Theatre ary 15. Don’t wait in line, Concert: Tin Pan Maurice Sendak mail registration also Alley to Terezin: Wednesday, February 15 Saturday, February 11 use WebTrac at accepted. at 8 p.m. and Sunday, www.skokieparkdis- Music of the 1930s at 7 p.m. trict.org for fast and easy Devonshire Sunday, January 15 at February 12 at 3 p.m. Understanding service anytime. Walk- Playhouse Presents: 3 p.m. Skokie Valley in and mail registration Pride and Prejudice Gilgamesh Symphony Orchestra also accepted. February 18 through Preschool and Child Thursday, February 16 at In the Centre East Snowshoe Rentals at March 4. Devonshire Care Fair 7 p.m. Theatre Playhouse, 4400 Green- Tuesday, January 17 Sunday, February 19 at Emily Oaks Nature Highland Park Pops wood Street. from 6 to 8 p.m. 3 p.m. Center Big Band First-come, first-served Fourth & Fifth Grade Lily Tomlin when four or more Dance Party Concert: Trio Voce Sunday, February 19 at 3 In the Centre East inches of snow are on Get ready to dance the Sunday, January 22 at p.m. Theatre 3 p.m. the ground. $4-$5/hour. night away with a guest The Underground Saturday, February 25 Emily Oaks Nature Cen- DJ, games, prizes and at 5 and 8 p.m. ter, 4650 Brummel more! Pizza, juice and eBay 101: Selling Railroad in Will and Street. supervision will be Basics Cook Counties Skokie Park Wednesday, January 25 Saturday, February 25 at District The Acrofabulous provided. You must For more information register in advance. $7 at 7 p.m. 2 p.m. Circus Spectacular to $8. February 24 on Park District pro- February 4 at 7 p.m. $9 Ancient Roman Music of Mesopotamia: grams, call 847/674- from 7 to 9 p.m. at the for students and seniors, Oakton Community Mosaics: A Special Classical Guitar and 1500 or visit $11 for adults. Devon- Exhibit Preview Se-tar www.SkokieParkDist- shire Playhouse, 4400 Center, 4701 Oakton rict.org. Greenwood Street. Street. Thursday, January 26 at Sunday, February 26 at 3 Skokie Public 7 p.m. p.m. Winter Chilly Fest Daddy-Daughter Enjoy an evening of Library Skokie Madden Bowl Second Homeland: Valentine’s Dance For more details on li- outdoor ice skating Dance the night away IV Film Screen and Panel under the stars and a brary activities and with your daughter or events, please visit Saturday, January 28 at Discussion cozy chili dinner. Feb- daddy. Ages 1+, Febru- 1 p.m. Wednesday, February 29 ruary 11 and 12 from 4 www.skokielibrary.info ary 4 from 5 to 7 p.m. or call 847/673-7774. at 7 p.m.  to 8 p.m. Emily Oaks $20 -$30/couple, $10 for Nature Center, 4650 additional attendees. Library Closed Brummel Street. Oakton Community Sunday, January 1. Center, 4701 Oakton Street. NewSkokie • Page 11 82708_Village Alts_24227 12pg v3 12/27/11 10:26 AM Page 12

CAR-RT-PRESORT

NewSk kie Presorted Standard U.S. Postage Village of Skokie PAID 5127 Oakton Street Skokie, IL Skokie, IL 60077 Permit No. 307

*****ECRWSS***** POSTAL CUSTOMER SKOKIE, IL

The Village of Skokie Village Departments www.skokie.org The Health Department 1660 AM Skokie Village Hall Council/Manager Needs Your Input! 847/673-0500 Government Citizens Assistance Since 1957 The Skokie Health Depart- 847/933-8480 ment is conducting a com- Civil Engineering Officials: prehensive community 847/933-8231 Mayor assessment to determine the George Van Dusen Clerk’s Office health needs of Skokie. The 847/933-8203 Clerk results of this assessment Marlene Williams Community Development will help the department Building/Property Standards/ modify existing programs, if Zoning Trustees 847/933-8223 Michele L. Bromberg necessary, and plan for the next five years. Michael M. Lorge Economic Development Donald P. Perille This is part of the IPLAN (Illinois Project for Local Assessment 847/933-8446 Randall E. Roberts of Needs) process. IPLAN is one of numerous requirements the Planning Pramod C. Shah 847/933-8447 Edie Sue Sutker Health Department must meet to maintain its certification by the Illinois Department of Public Health. The Skokie Health Depart- Health Department Manager ment is currently one of only a few certified municipal health de- Administration Albert J. Rigoni partments in the state. 847/933-8252 Counsel Animal Control J. Patrick Hanley Your opinion is very important to this process. A short electronic 847/933-8484 survey will be available on line at www.skokie.org beginning Environmental Health Phone Numbers: Tuesday, January 3, 2012. Please take a moment to complete the 847/933-8484 Emergency 9-1-1 survey, and give the Health Department feedback. Paper copies Personal Health will be available in the Health Department, or you can call the de- 847/933-8252 Information partment to have an individual survey mailed to you. Human Services 847/673-0500 847/933-8208 For more information, contact Robert Johnson at the Skokie Health Public Works TTY Department, 847/933-8252.  847/933-8455 Forestry 847/933-8427 Fire Non-Emergency Refuse and Recycling 847/982-5300 Holiday Tree Pickup 847/933-8427 Police Non-Emergency Weather permitting, Village of Skokie Public Works crews will Signs and Street Lights 847/982-5900 pick up Holiday trees during the first two weeks in January. Col- 847/933-8232 lected trees are chipped and available as mulch to Village resi- Streets and Alleys Citizens Assistance 847/933-8427 847/933-8480 dents after the New Year’s holiday. Water and Sewer Managing Editor For collection place your tree in your normal refuse pickup spot. 847/933-8427 Ann E. Tennes Do not put the tree in a bag or container, and please remove all Traffic Engineering decorations. The mulch pick-up area is located on the south side 847/933-8232 Assistant Editor/Layout Nicholas A. Wyatt of Church Street in the Commonwealth Edison right-of-way Village Manager’s Office property which is just east of Terminal Avenue.  847/933-8210 Copyright ©2012 by Village of Skokie NewSkokie is printed on 45% post-consumer recycled Water Billing content paper with soy-based ink. 847/933-8418