December 2012 NewSkokie - the award winning municipal ... · PDF fileDecember 2012 NewSkokie - the award winning municipal information source ... Shop Local and Win! in this issue

December 2012 ■ NewSkokie - the award winning municipal information source

Downtown Skokie Holiday Fest December 15 from 2 to 5:30 p.m. - Shop Local and Win! in this issue

2 Downtown Skokie Construction Update

3 Fine Arts Grants Announced

4 CDBG Program

5 2013 Refuse/Recycling Schedule

7 Police Notes

8 Board Report

9 Health Notes

10/ Community 11 Calendar

On Saturday, December 15, 2012 from 2 to 5:30 p.m., the Independent Merchants of Downtown Skokie (IMODS) will host a community holiday fest at Krier Plaza on the southeast corner of Oakton Street and Lincoln Avenue.

The event will feature fun for the whole family, including visits and photos with Santa (photos available for purchase), ice sculpture demonstrations, live reindeer, elves, carolers, a menorah lighting at 5:30 p.m. and much more!

Shop in Downtown Skokie on December 15 and bring your receipts to Krier Plaza. For every $10 spent at a Downtown Skokie restaurant or store that day, you will receive a ticket for a prize drawing held at 5:35 p.m. on December 15, 2012. Bring a canned good or donate $1 to the Niles Township Food Pantry and receive a ticket for the prize drawing. Prizes include an electronic tablet, gift cards and more. Winners need not be present. For a complete list of Downtown Skokie stores and restaurants, visit www.skokiedowntown.org. ■

Alternate-side parking during snowfalls of two inches or more allows Skokie Public Works crews to efficiently plow Village streets. The mandatory program provides the ability to plow streets from curb-to-curb within a two-day period. There is a $50 fine for vehicles parked on the wrong side of the street when the program is in effect.

To confirm that the alternate-side parking program is in effect and for program updates, residents should call 847/675-SNOW (7669), sign up for email alerts through SkokieNews, visit www.skokie.org or tune to 1660 AM, Skokie’s advisory radio station.

Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many days does alternate-side parking last? The program usually is in effect for at least two days. To find out if it is extended, call 847/675-SNOW (7669).

On what side of the street do I park during alternate side parking? On odd-numbered dates, residents park vehicles on the side of the street with odd-numbered addresses. On even-numbered dates, residents park vehicles on the side of the street with even-numbered addresses. Odd and even dates are determined by the date on the calendar.

When is alternate-side parking in effect? Alternate-side parking is in effect between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. after a snowfall of two inches or more. A siren sounds to signal the start of alternate-side parking at 7 a.m. each day the program is in effect. Additional information can be found by contacting 847/675-SNOW(7669) for a recorded status report or on 1660 AM Skokie Radio, www.skokie.org or on SkokieVision cable.

Where is a vehicle towed if in violation? If your vehicle has been towed due to a violation of the Village’s snow ordinance, contact the Police Department at 847/982-5900.

Be Prepared for Winter in Skokie

Article continued on page six.

2 | NewSkokie ■ December 2012 ■ www.skokie.org NewSkokie ■ December 2012 ■ www.skokie.org | 3

In early November 2012, the Village began a water main replacement project on areas of Oakton Street and Lincoln Avenue in Downtown Skokie. The project is expected to suspend for the winter months and resume when warmer temperatures return.

In spring 2013, a large-scale improvement project will begin on Oakton Street and Lincoln Avenue in Downtown Skokie. The project will include street resurfacing, some sidewalk replacement, new light poles, landscaping, street furniture and more. This project is expected to continue through most of 2013. A multi-disciplinary task force of Village staff has been working on the project plans for most of 2012, and has been joined by a representative of the Independent Merchants of Downtown Skokie.

It will be more important than ever for the community to ‘shop local’ in Downtown Skokie during this lengthy construction project that, while temporarily inconvenient, will result in increased pedestrian and vehicular safety and a more beautiful and inviting Downtown Skokie area.

The Village Board will review the project at the December 3 board meeting at 8 p.m. at Village Hall. The meeting will be broadcast live on cable channels 25 on RCN systems and 17 on Comcast systems. For more information, visit www.skokie.org. ■

village

NotesDowntown Skokie Construction Update

The long awaited Oakton-Skokie CTA Station opened in Downtown Skokie on Monday, April 30, 2012. The $20 million station construction project was funded by a $14 million federal grant, with the Village funding the remaining $6 million through a Tax Increment Financing District. The Village hosted a Community Celebration on June 24, 2012 to officially celebrate the opening. The celebration included a sculpture dedication, a kiddie bike parade and fun family-friendly entertainment. Since opening, ridership levels have exceeded projections, with over 950 boardings per weekday and robust weekend utilization. ■

2012 Year in Review CTA Yellow Line Station in Downtown Skokie

The Village of Skokie has approximately 179 miles of streets. While the Village is responsible for maintaining the majority of Skokie roadways, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the Cook County Highway Department are responsible for approximately 35 miles of Skokie streets. These typically include more heavily used roads such as Crawford Avenue, McCormick Boulevard, Old Orchard Road and Skokie Boulevard. During snow events, either Cook County or IDOT are responsible for clearing snow from these roads, and they also are responsible for all road resurfacing and repairs, including repairing potholes. When the Village receives complaints about these roadways, the information is passed along to the appropriate jurisdiction.

Skokie is responsible for the following streets: All side streets in Skokie, as well as all alleys, Dempster St. (border to border), Gross Point Rd. (Main St. to Church St.), Main St. (border to border), Niles Center Rd. (Main St. to Lincoln Ave.), Oakton St. (from Long Ave. to Skokie Blvd.) and Howard St. Cook County is responsible for the following streets: Church St. (Linder Ave. to Gross Point Rd.), Crawford Ave. (Jarvis Ave. to Golf Rd.), Frontage Roads, Oakton St. (Skokie Blvd. to McCormick Blvd.) and Old Orchard Rd. (Harms Rd. to Crawford Ave.). IDOT is responsible for the following streets: Church St. (Gross Point Rd. to McCormick Ave.), Crawford Ave. (Golf Rd. to Old Orchard Rd.), Golf Rd. (McCormick Ave. to Harms Rd.), Gross Point Rd. (Lincoln Ave. to Howard St. and Church St. to Old Orchard Rd.), Lincoln Ave. (Linder Ave. to Jarvis Ave.), McCormick Blvd. (Touhy Ave. to Golf Rd.), Niles Center Rd. (Main St. to Church St. and Pratt Ave. to Brown St.), Skokie Blvd. (Jarvis Ave. to Old Orchard Rd.) and Touhy Ave. (east to west limits).

Please contact IDOT, 1-800-452-4368 or www.dot.state.il.us, or Cook County, 708/485-7130 or www.cookcountygov.com, if you have issues regarding conditions on the roads over which they have jurisdiction. ■

Skokie Roadway Jurisdictions IDOT and Cook County Responsible for Plowing and Repairing Potholes on Major Skokie Roadways

2 | NewSkokie ■ December 2012 ■ www.skokie.org

Village Proactively Promotes Economic Development

The Skokie Fine Arts Commission recently awarded fine arts grants to 11 Skokie grade schools and five Skokie arts organizations to support music, dance and fine arts programs throughout Skokie. The programs receiving grant awards are diverse, ranging from the creation of permanent mosaics in schools to a plein air art celebration at the Emily Oaks Nature Center.

“As a school district that has experienced difficult times, we are thankful to the community for extending a helping hand to help us maintain our fine arts programs,” stated Lincoln Junior High’s Orchestra Director Jennifer Peters. “The Skokie Fine Arts grant enabled Lincoln Junior high to bring in guest artists to work with the students. “Many students are unable to

afford private lessons, so working with a guest artist who is a specialist on their instrument gives students a taste of what private lessons would be like,” Peters added.

Highland School PTA Co-President Lisa Omori stated, “For more years than can be remembered, Highland School has benefited greatly from the generous grants awarded by the Skokie Fine Arts Commission. There have been music and dance performances that have introduced students to new forms of movement and sounds that they have been able to experience live, in an intimate setting. Students are often brought up to participate with the performers. The wonderful diversity of the Skokie community is reflected in the performances. So many Skokie

residents, both children and adults, have received a great deal through the numerous grants awarded to Highland Schools. We are grateful and enriched!”

For more information on the Skokie Fine Arts grants, please visit www.skokie.org. ■

NewSkokie ■ December 2012 ■ www.skokie.org | 3

village

Notes

In fall 2012, the Village exhibited and actively participated in the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) Deal-Making convention held at Navy Pier. The purpose of the convention is to connect private and public entities seeking to develop retail/restaurant and mixed-use projects, renovate existing buildings and lease space within a “business to business” environment. Attendance at the 2012 event topped 2,400 participants.

The Village met with decision makers from over 20 firms in the brokerage, development and real estate service industries. Staff highlighted available public and privately-owned property for sale or lease in Skokie.

The Village’s continued strong presence at ICSC bolsters Skokie’s image as a progressive community relative to business and economic development. ■

Fine Arts Grants Awarded

The mosaic funded by the Skokie Fine Arts Commission located in the library of Highland School.

The past year brought many changes on West Dempster Street with the opening of several businesses including Red Mango, Walgreens, Oberweis/That Burger Joint, Krispy Krunchy Chicken and the re-opening of Kaufman’s Deli. The Village’s West Dempster Street commercial rehab and site improvement program will help spur additional redevelopment in the years to come. Through the program the Village offers matching funds for significant exterior building and site improvements up to $150,000 for a larger, stand-alone buildings. Additionally, merchants along the Dempster Street corridor organized to form the Dempster Street Merchants Association. ■

2012 Year in Review Dempster Street Corridor

Skokie Community Fund Offers Challenge GrantThe Skokie Community Fund, formed in 2011 by a group of residents committed to the long-term health and well being of all Skokie residents, will again support the Village of Skokie Community Giving Program with a challenge grant. Once donations total $35,000, the Skokie Community Fund will match additional donations dollar for dollar up to $10,000.

Monies raised will be used to support some of Skokie’s most vulnerable residents.

Please contact the Skokie Human Services Division at 847/933-8208 for further information or to make a donation. ■

village

Notes

NewSkokie ■ December 2012 ■ www.skokie.org | 54 | NewSkokie ■ December 2012 ■ www.skokie.org

2013 - 2014 Community Development Block Grant ProgramEach year under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides block grants to qualified local communities. Skokie expects to receive $400,000 – $450,000 in funding for the fiscal year beginning May 1, 2013. These funds will be used for physical improvement projects, housing programs, limited social services, and other activities that are consistent with local planning goals and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) regulations.

Eligible projects must meet national objectives by principally benefiting low- to moderate-income people in the community or aiding in the prevention and elimination of blighted conditions. All projects must be approved by HUD before funds are released.

The Village has scheduled three public hearings to solicit public input on the 2013-2014 CDBG Program. Information gathered at the hearings assists in formulating the Village’s funding request to HUD. At the

December 17, 2012 village board meeting, the Board will review the current year’s program progress and discuss 2013-2014 community development needs and objectives. Project suggestions, comments, and program recommendations that are solicited from Village staff, citizens, and representatives of various social service agencies will be presented at the January 7, 2013 village board meeting.

The Board will select the projects to be funded at a hearing at the February 4, 2013 Village Board meeting at 8 p.m. CDBG hearings are held at the close of regular Village business.

For information on the Community Development Block Grant Program, contact Planner/CDBG Administrator Carrie Haberstich at 847-933-8447. ■

Luminescence by David Noguchi

Stele LXVII, Dogon by Clyde Lynds

Burst by Dusty Folwarczny

Spring by Ray Katz

The Public Arts Advisory Committee (PAAC) purchased and installed five public art sculptures in 2012, three of which are located on the new Skokie Valley Trail that runs from Dempster to Oakton Street just west of the Skokie Swift Tracks. The PAAC also refurbished the Village’s first public art sculpture, Skokie Light Sculpture, located on the Village Green. The Skokie Light Sculpture was commissioned in 1975 and installed in 1978. The Public Arts Advisory Committee is funded by a small fee on building permits over $10,000. These funds are used solely to make Skokie a more attractive, artistically vibrant community. ■

2012 Year in Review Public Arts Advisory Committee

Everreel by Evan Lewis

Shop Local this Holiday SeasonSkokie offers a variety of art, entertainment, dining and retail options. This holiday season, try shopping locally in Skokie not only to see what’s new, but also to give a gift that will help support your community. For information about local entertainment venues, dining and retail outlets, visit:

• Downtown Skokie’s website at www.skokiedowntown.org;

• The Skokie Chamber of Commerce website at www.skokiechamber.org;

• The Chicago’s North Shore Convention & Visitor’s Bureau at www.cnscvb.com;

• Like Shop Local Skokie at www.facebook.com/ShopLocalSkokie; and

• The Independent Merchants of Downtown Skokie (IMODS) website at www.downtownskokie.org.

For more information visit www.skokie.org. ■


village

Notes


2012 Year in Review Traffic Safety Task ForceIn early summer 2012, the Village appointed a Traffic Safety Task Force to address traffic and pedestrian safety issues in the area around Middleton School. The Task Force was comprised of Village trustees Edie Sue Sutker and Randall Roberts, Village of Skokie staff and representatives from School District 73.5. The Task Force met throughout the summer and with input from the community, research by Task Force members and a study conducted by professional consulting firm Gewalt Hamilton Associates, Inc., developed a plan that was approved by the Village Board on August 20, 2012. The plans calls for improved traffic sight lines on Main Street, a traffic signal at Central Park Avenue and Main Street, a reduction in the speed limit on Main Street from 30 to 25 miles per hour and several additional pedestrian/traffic safety improvements. The Main Street speed limit reduction went into effect in mid-October 2012. ■

2013 Holiday Refuse and Recycling Schedule

Refuse CollectionWeek of December 31, 2012 (New Year’s Day) Monday collection unchanged, Tuesday collection on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday collections unchanged.

Week of January 21, 2013 (Martin Luther King Day) Monday collection on Tuesday, Tuesday collection on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday collections unchanged.

Week of February 18, 2013 (President’s Day) Monday collection on Tuesday, Tuesday collection on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday collections unchanged.

Week of May 27, 2013 (Memorial Day) Monday collection on Tuesday, Tuesday collection on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday collections unchanged.

Week of July 1, 2013 (Independence Day) Monday and Tuesday collections unchanged, Thursday collection on Wednesday and Friday collection unchanged.

Week of September 2, 2013 (Labor Day) Monday collection on Tuesday, Tuesday collection on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday collections unchanged.

Week of November 25, 2013 (Thanksgiving) Monday and Tuesday collections unchanged, attempt to complete Thursday and Friday collections on Wednesday.

Week of December 23, 2013 (Christmas) Normal collection schedules remain in effect.

Week of December 30, 2013 (New Year’s Day) Normal collection schedules remain in effect.

Recycling CollectionWeek of December 31, 2012 (New Year’s Day) Monday collection unchanged, Tuesday collection on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday collections unchanged.

Week of January 21, 2013 (Martin Luther King Day) Normal collection schedules remain in effect.

Week of February 18, 2013 (President’s Day) Normal collection schedules remain in effect.

Week of May 27, 2013 (Memorial Day) Monday collection on Tuesday, Tuesday collection on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday collections unchanged.

Week of July 1, 2013 (Independence Day) Monday and Tuesday collections unchanged, Thursday collection on Wednesday and Friday collection unchanged.

Week of September 2, 2013 (Labor Day) Monday collection on Tuesday, Tuesday collection on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday collections unchanged.

Week of November 25, 2013 (Thanksgiving) Monday, Tuesday and Friday collections unchanged, Thursday collection on Wednesday.

Week of December 23, 2013 (Christmas) Normal collection schedules remain in effect.

Week of December 30, 2013 (New Year’s Day) Normal collection schedules remain in effect.

The Village offers a comprehensive refuse and recycling program for Skokie residents and businesses. Crews are projected to collect close to 18,000 tons of garbage this coming year. More than 5,000 tons of solid waste are expected to be diverted from landfills as a result of the Village’s weekly recycling collection program.

A 95-gallon refuse container is provided to each single-family household for storage of up to 200 pounds of household refuse, with the exception of hazardous materials and construction debris. These items require special disposal. For more information on hazardous waste and construction debris disposal, please www.skokie.org/RefuseRecycling.cfm.

village

Notes


The Skokie Fire Department recommends that if your clothing catches fire, you should stop, drop and roll to put out the flames. This may seem simple, but it is important for children and adults that this response become instinctive. During a clothing fire seconds count, so a trained, immediate response of stop, drop and roll is extremely important. Parents and teachers should encourage children to practice and make sure they understand when and where to use this technique.

Do not run or keep standing, as running will only fan the flames and make them higher. Standing up straight will make the fire burn faster. Stop and drop down to the floor or ground, and roll or rock back and forth to smother the flames. If possible, roll or rock in a rug, blanket or coat to smother the fire faster. Attempt to cover your face with your hands to

keep the fire away from your face. Do not attempt to remove burned clothing if it is stuck to the skin. Keep the victim quiet and warm until help arrives.

Most clothing fires are accidents and can be prevented by following these steps: use caution when using or working with any heat sources or flames; keep children away from heat sources such as candles, stoves, lighters, outdoor grills, portable heaters and fire places; and keep a fire safe environment. By law, children’s sleepwear must be flame retardant at the time of purchase; however, the washing and care instructions must be followed to maintain the fire retardant feature.

For more information, please contact the Skokie Fire Department at 847/933-5320. ■

Clothing Fire - Stop, Drop and Roll

A lot has happened in Downtown Skokie in 2012 including the opening of Aw Yeah! Comics, Beats Provoke Movement, Gorilla Tango Skokie Theatre, Nirvana Boutique & Spa and Siunik Armenian Grill. The Skokie Valley Trail along the abandoned railroad right-of-way from Oakton Street to Dempster Street opened in May 2012 for cyclists and pedestrians. In early 2012, 30 Downtown Skokie businesses and hundreds of residents participated in the “Downtown Skokie 5” promotion. Through the Wednesdays on the Green program, fun, family friendly events were held on the Skokie Village Green every Wednesday evening throughout the summer. On Saturday and Sunday, October 27 and 28, the Independent Merchants of Downtown Skokie (IMODS) hosted the first annual Halloween in Downtown Skokie event. Over 300 children and 700 total individuals participated in the festivities which included trick-or-treating at Downtown Skokie businesses and at the Skokie Farmers’ Market and a funhouse and free movies at the Skokie Heritage Museum. Planning is under way for extensive infrastructure and streetscape improvements on Oakton Street and sections of Lincoln Avenue. The construction project will enhance vehicular/pedestrian safety, improve aesthetics and is expected to begin in April 2013 and conclude in November 2013. ■

2012 Year in Review Downtown Skokie Redevelopment

What should I do with my vehicle(s) while on vacation or at work? Residents who do not have off-street parking must make arrangements to have vehicles moved when the alternate-side parking program is in effect.

May I park on either side of the street once the street is plowed? No, even after the street is plowed, vehicles must remain parked on the designated side of the street until 6 p.m. This allows Public Works to plow a second time if necessary. At 6 p.m., a siren will sound notifying residents that vehicles may be parked on either side of the street.

Refuse Carts and Fire HydrantsRefuse collectors have a difficult time emptying refuse and recycling carts that are buried by drifts or piles of snow. Residents are responsible for ensuring that refuse containers are accessible. Please clear a path for the crews so that your recycling and refuse can be picked up as scheduled.

After a heavy snowfall, refuse collection may be suspended for one or more days while snow clearing operations are underway.

For information on any refuse collection delays after a snowfall, visit www.skokie.org.

In addition, snow plowing operations may cover your fire hydrant. Please assign someone in your household the responsibility of keeping fire hydrants on or near your property clear of snow for easy access. Snow piled on top of fire hydrants may impact timeliness of emergency response. In the event of a fire emergency every second counts!

For more information please visit www.skokie.org. ■

Prepare Yourself for Winter Continued from front page


police

Notes

Lighting by itself does not prevent crime. Lighting provides the opportunity for “choice;” the choice to walk forward because you can clearly see that your path is free of obstruction or danger. If you can see a potential danger (a person hiding, a group of misbehaving kids at the corner) you may choose to walk a different way and/or notify the police.

Lighting, when used properly, is a powerful tool that residents, business owners and property managers can use to control and reduce the opportunity for crime. Security lighting should be energy efficient, tamper resistant and break resistant.

Building lighting should illuminate address numbers, entrances/exits and front and rear yards. Porch lighting should be controlled by the building and should illuminate corners and walls.

Property lighting should provide a cone of light downward to walkways and provide a level of lighting between buildings to distinguish forms and movement. To help cut electricity costs, outdoor lighting fixtures should be energy efficient.

Most lighting products are easy to install and many come pre-wired and pre-assembled. Each style comes with a bulb, and some models are equipped with a motion sensor or photocell (automatically on at dusk and off at dawn).

For more crime prevention tips call the Crime Prevention Unit 847/982-5919. ■

Keep Your Home Maintained


Lighting: Help Protect Your PropertyKeeping your home or business clean and maintained is a good way to keep your property safe from criminal activity. Doing this sends the message that you are taking responsibility for your property and will call the police in the event of suspicious or criminal activity. Storage of vehicles on the street is illegal. Storage of vehicles for long periods of time on your driveway or carport creates several problems, including presenting a target for potential car thieves, vehicle burglars and creating places for trespassers or criminals to hide. Doing so may also create an image that the vehicles are abandoned and uncared-for, and that no responsible person is present to call police.

For more information contact the Crime Prevention Unit at 847/982-5919. ■

See something? Concerned about it? Report it.Citizens with information about a crime, suspicious persons or activities, or the whereabouts of a wanted

suspect can call the Crime Tip Hot Line at 847/933-TIPS (8477).

On Sunday, October 14, the Skokie Fire and Police Departments hosted a Public Safety Open House. Some 700 visitors toured the Skokie Police Headquarters and Skokie Fire Station 16, saw Jaws of Life demonstrations, rode in an antique fire truck and also got up close to fire, police and public works equipment. ■

2012 Year in Review Public Safety Open House

Children with their “Skokie is #1” foam finger during a tour of the Skokie

Police Headquarters.

A child practicing his fire escape skills at Skokie Fire Station #16.

Mother and son play firefighter games during a tour of Skokie Fire Station #16.

Skokie Fire Fighters demonstrate the Jaws of Life tool during the Public

Safety Open House.


board

Report

The Skokie Village Board meets the first and third Mondays of each month, except in the case of a holiday. Meetings begin at 8 p.m. in the Council Chambers of Skokie Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street.

Watch Village Board Meetings live on SkokieVision Cable Television (Channel 25 on RCN systems, Channel 17 on Comcast systems). The Board Meetings also are re-broadcast at noon and 8 p.m. on the Thursday, Saturday and Tuesday following a Board Meeting.

Upcoming Public MeetingsAll meetings are held at Village Hall (5127 Oakton Street).

Board of Trustees December 3, 17

Plan Commission December 6, 20

Appearance Commission December 12

Zoning Board of Appeals December 5, 19

In 2007, to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of the Council-Manager form of government in Skokie, the Village Board established the Skokie Excellence in Professional Government Management Scholarship at Oakton Community College (OCC). Each year, the OCC scholarship committee selects the scholarship recipient according to the Village’s established criteria, including that the recipient must live in Skokie and display an interest in local government.

Skokie resident and Niles West graduate Diana Alzate was selected as the 2012 Village of Skokie scholarship recipient, receiving the award at a recent scholarship banquet. In her scholarship essay, Diana wrote, “I will try to succeed

in anything I set my mind to. I want to be as involved as I can to practice making connections with people.”

Students who wish to be considered for the 2013 Skokie Excellence in Professional Government

Management Scholarship must complete and submit a Scholarship Application and Personal Statement electronically to OCC by March 1, 2013 for incoming high school students and March 31, 2012 for general scholarship applicants. Scholarship materials are available at www.oakton.edu/admission/index.php. Questions about the application process should be directed to Alex DeLonis, OCC Office of Student Financial Assistance, [email protected] or 847/635-2624. ■

Skokie Resident Diana Alzate Receives Village Scholarship at OCC

The Village Board authorized the execution of an agreement for the Oakton Street Streetscape Improvement Project. The Village received federal funds as part of the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP) for this project in the amount of $992,280. A local match of $495,263 is required. The construction will take place on Oakton Street east of Skokie Boulevard.

The Village Board approved an Interior/Exterior Rehab Program Grant for 4907 Oakton Street for Cafe Hanah, a new sushi bar/café/frozen yogurt retailer.

The Village Board approved renovation plans for the Comfort Inn and Suites at 9333 Skokie Boulevard. The plans call for $9 million in upgrades and changing the franchise to Holiday Inn Express. ■

Village Board Action

Village Scholarship Recipient Diana Alzate

In early October, Skokie American Legion Post 320 donated $100,000 to the Skokie Fire Department to support operations. The donation will enable the Skokie Fire Department to equip three ambulances with stretcher power load and fastening systems ($75,000). The balance of the donation will support the fabrication and installation of a live-fire burn room addition and attachment corridor at the Skokie Fire Department’s existing drill tower at Station 17. ■

2012 Year in Review American Legion Donates $100,000

health

Notes


Body Composition Analysis Have Your Fitness Level Checked

National Hand Washing Awareness WeekThe week of December 2 through 8 is National Hand Washing Awareness week. The Skokie Health Department would like you to know one of the simplest ways to help you from getting sick this winter: wash your hands frequently!

Always wash your hands before eating and when they are dirty or have touched soiled surfaces. Do not cough or sneeze into your hands. Most importantly, do not put your fingers into your eyes, nose or mouth.

Be sure to wash your hands properly by getting your hands wet with soap and warm water and rubbing your hands for 20 seconds. Be sure to get under your fingernails and between your fingers. Rinse your hands under warm running water and dry your hands on your own clean towel. Turn off the water with a paper towel and throw the towel away and use a clean paper towel to open the bathroom/restroom door and throw the towel away.

These simple steps can help to reduce the likelihood of you getting a cold or the flu this winter.

For more information on proper hand washing, contact the Skokie Health Department at 847/933-8252. ■

One way to measure fitness is by determining your fat-to-lean ratio. The Skokie Health Department offers body composition analysis, a quick and easy test to determine this ratio. Body composition analysis is performed in the Health Department using near-infrared light to determine an individual’s amount of fat and lean tissue. A comprehensive summary of the results is provided and reviewed with a nurse to help improve the individual’s physical fitness.

The Health Department conducts body composition analysis on Tuesday mornings, Thursday afternoons, and on the first and third Wednesday evenings of the month. The testing is done by appointment only and costs $6.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 847/933-8252. ■

Stop Smoking ProgramCourage to QuitThe Skokie Health Department is offering a stop smoking program for Village residents and those who work in Skokie.

The six-session program begins on Monday January 7 at 7 p.m. It will also meet on Monday, January 14, 21, 28 and February 4 and 11. The program will be held in the Annex Room at the Skokie Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street.

There is a $15 fee which covers the cost of course materials. The fee will be refunded to participants who complete the program.

Susan Reisberg, RN, with the Skokie Health Department will conduct the clinic. Ms. Reisberg has received extensive training in smoking cessation and prevention programs. She has a unique style that is very popular with clinic participants. Advance registration is required for the stop smoking program.

For more information or to register for the program, contact the Skokie

Health Department at 846/933-8252. ■

In early 2012, the Village initiated a multi-unit rental licensing program as a proactive and preventative initiative to strengthen the communication and partnership between landlords and the Village. The Village’s Public Safety Commission hosted two public hearings in spring 2012 to discuss and review the program. Following the public hearings and deliberations, the Commission endorsed the proposed program. The Village Board first heard the multi-unit rental licensing program proposal at the board meeting on July 16, 2012 and the proposal was converted to an ordinance. After consideration of and both positive and negative feedback from the community and landlords, the Village Board deferred the proposed rental licensing program to a date uncertain. In the meantime, an interim Landlord - Resident Advisory Committee has been formed to further consider the proposal and see if common ground can be reached. ■

2012 Year in Review Proposed Multi-Unit Rental Licensing Program


Calendar


community

Unless otherwise noted, all clinics are held at the Health Department, 5127 Oakton Street. Clinics marked with an (*) require advance registration. Proof of Skokie residency required for all clinics. For more information call 847/933-8252.

Immunization Clinics* Immunization fees are $5 per person, per clinic. Appointments are required. Clinics are held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon (except December 25); Wednesdays, December 5 and 19 from 5 to 7 p.m.; and Wednesday, December 12 and 26 from 2 to 4 p.m.

Well Child Clinic* Monday, December 10 from 8:30 a.m. to noon.

Diabetes Screening* Thursday, December 11 from 9 a.m. to noon. $5 fee.

Hearing Screening* Friday, December 14 from 9 a.m. to noon.

Simple Cholesterol Screening Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m. except December 25. Wednesdays, December 5 and 19 from 5 to 7 p.m. $6 fee.

Lead Screening* Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon except December 25. Wednesdays, December 5 and 19 from 5 to 7 p.m. $25 fee.

Body Composition Analysis* Tuesdays, 9 a.m. to noon except December 25. Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays, December 5 and 19 from 5 to 7 p.m. $6 fee.

Blood Pressure Screening Tuesdays from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Wednesdays, December 5 and 19 from 5 to 7 p.m.

Lipid Profile Screening* Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Wednesdays, December 5 and 19 from 5 to 7 p.m. $15 fee.

TB Skin Testing* Mondays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon. Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to noon and 2 to 4 p.m. except December 25. $5 fee.

Health Happenings

Woodcarving Club Tuesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Amateurs are welcome. No instructor.

Hearing Loss Support Group Thursday, December 13 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Combo meeting with Low Vision Group, members only.

Chess Wednesdays and Fridays from noon to 4 p.m.

Conversational Yiddish No fee or registration required. Everyone is welcome. Tuesday, December 18 at 1:30 p.m.

FOCUS (For Optically Challenged Upbeat Sorts) Wednesday, December 12 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Annex Room at Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street.

Senior Health Insurance Program Consultations available concerning Medicare benefits and eligibility, Medicare supplements, prescription benefits and claims issues. Selected dates, by appointment only.

Low Vision Support Group Combo meeting with Hearing Loss Support Group. December 13 from 1:30 to 3 p.m., members only.

U.S. Citizenship Class Thursdays at noon at the Smith Activities Center.

Skokie Senior Men’s Group Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m. at Weber Park, 9300 Weber Park Place.

Rules of the Road Review for driver’s exam. Monday, December 3 from 9:15 a.m. to noon.

Stamp Club Wednesdays, December 5 and 19 at 1:30 p.m.

Silver Singers Monday, December 31 at 1:30 p.m.

Simple Will/Durable Power of Attorney/ Living Will Program Program for low-income seniors who meet the requirements. Fee charged by attorney.

Smith Center ActivitiesLocated at 5120 Galitz Street. Please call 847/933-8208 for more information or to register.

Holiday Refuse Collection Week of December 24 (Christmas Holiday) Monday collection unchanged, Tuesday collection on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday collections unchanged Week of December 31 (New Year’s Holiday) Monday collection unchanged, Tuesday collection on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday collections unchangedRecycling Collection Week of December 24 (Christmas Holiday) Monday collection unchanged, Tuesday collection on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday collections unchanged Week of December 31 (New Year’s Holiday Monday collection unchanged, Tuesday collection on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday collections unchangedFor more information please visit www.skokie.org or call the Skokie Public Works Department at 847/933-8427.

Refuse & Recycling Collection Schedule

The Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County (SWANCC) and the Village of Skokie are offering a free Holiday Light Recycling Program.

All holiday string lighting and extension cords can be dropped off at the Skokie Public Works Department, 9050 Gross Point Road, December 3, 2012 through January 25, 2013 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Garland, live greens, wreaths or other non-recyclables are not accepted in this program.

For more information please contact the Public Works Department at 847/933-8427. ■

Holiday Light Recycling


Calendarcommunity

Holiday Book Boutique Sunday, December 2 from 2 to 4 p.m.

Young Steinway Concert Sunday, December 2 at 3 p.m.

App Class Wednesday, December 12 at 7 p.m.

Library Closed for Staff Training Friday, December 14

Career Support Group Monday, December 17 at 9:30 p.m.

Introduction to Google Drive Monday, December 17 at 7 p.m.

Holidays Around the World Friday, December 21 at 7 p.m.

Library Closed December 24 and 25.

Family Bingo Thursday, December 27 at 7 p.m.

Library Closes at 5 p.m. Monday, December 31.

The Nutcracker: The Land of Sweets The Devonshire Dance Ensemble performs Act II of this legendary holiday ballet. $5. December 15 at 2 and 7 p.m. and December 16 at 3 p.m. Devonshire Playhouse, 4400 Greenwood Street.

Santa’s Hotline and North Pole Express Surprise your kids with a phone call or letter from Santa. Calls limited to 847, 630, 312 and 773 area codes. Register by December 10.

Breakfast with Santa Enjoy a pancake breakfast, entertainment and a raffle with Santa. $10-$12. December 15, 9:30 a.m. Oakton Community Center, 4701 Oakton Street.

Winter Program Registration Begins Registration for Skokie Park District winter programs begin on December 15 for residents, December 22 for non-residents.

Ice Skating - Holiday Public Sessions Lace up your skates and hit the ice with the whole family. The Skatium Ice Arena offers public skating sessions once or twice daily over the holidays. $4.50 to $5, skate rental $3. Saturday, December 22, 2012 through Saturday, January 5, 2013. Skatium Ice Arena, 9300 Weber Park Place.

Itty Bitty New Year The Exploritorium’s family New Year bash with art projects, face painting, a noon balloon drop and more! December 27 from 10 a.m. to noon. Oakton Community Center, 4701 Oakton Street

Skokie Park DistrictFor more information on Park District programs, call 847/674-1500 or visit www.SkokieParkDistrict.org.

Skokie Public LibraryFor more details on library activities and events, please visit www.skokielibrary.info or call 847/673-7774.

Located at 9501 Skokie Boulevard. For 2012 - 2013 season performance dates and information, please visit www.NorthShoreCenter.org or call the box office at 847/673-6300.

North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie

The Odd Couple In the Northlight Theatre. Running Tuesdays through Sundays through December 9.

Skokie Valley Symphony Orchestra In the Center Theatre. Sunday, December 2 at 3 p.m.

Salt Creek Ballet’s The Nutcracker In the Center Theatre. Saturday, December 15 at 1 and 5 p.m. Sunday, December 16 at 2 p.m.

Chick Corea & Gary Burton - Hot House Tour with Harlem String Quartet In the Center Theatre. Thursday, December 6 at 8 p.m.

“Polish Carols, Song & Dance” by the Lira Ensemble In the Center Theatre. Sunday, December 9 at 3 p.m.

A father reading to his son at the Skokie Public Library.

Children drumming during a program at the Library.

Village of Skokie5127 Oakton Street Skokie, Illinois 60077

******ECRWSS*****POSTAL CUSTOMER

SKOKIE, IL

CAR-RT-PRESORTPresorted Standard

US Postage PAID

Skokie, ILPermit No. 307

Is Alternate Side Parking in Effect?The Village of Skokie provides many avenues to learn when Alternate-Side Parking is in effect after it snows:

• Call the Village’s 24-hour Snow Hotline at 847/675-7669;

• Sign up for email alerts through Skokienews at www.skokie.org;

• Listen to 1660 AM Skokie Radio;

• Visit www.skokie.org and look for a notice near the top of the home page;

• Tune to SkokieVision cable and look for the crawl message at the bottom of the screen (Channel 25 on RCN systems, Channel 17 on Comcast systems); or

• Listen for the emergency siren that sounds at 7 a.m. to signal that the program is in effect from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. that day.


Village of Skokie

www.skokie.org166 AM SkokieCouncil/Manager Government Since 1957

Offi cials:MayorGeorge Van Dusen

ClerkMarlene Williams

TrusteesMichele L. BrombergDonald P. PerilleRandall E. RobertsPramod C. ShahEdie Sue Sutker

ManagerAlbert J. Rigoni

CounselMichael M. Lorge

Phone Numbers:Emergency9-1-1

Crime Tip Hotline847/933-TIPS (8477)

Information847/673-0500

Fire Non-Emergency847/982-5300

Police Non-Emergency847/982-5900

Citizens Assistance847/933-8480

DepartmentsVillage Hall847/673-0500

Citizens Assistance847/933-8480

Civil Engineering847/933-8231

Clerk’s Office847/933-8203

Community Development847/933-8223

Economic Development847/933-8446

Planning847/933-8447

Health Department/Personal Health847/933-8252

Animal Control847/933-8484

Environmental Health847/933-8484

Human Services847/933-8208

Public Works847/933-8427

Signs and Street Lights847/933-8232

Village Manager’s Office847/933-8210

Water Billing847/933-8418

NewSkokie is printed on 50% post-consumer recycled content paper with vegetable-based

ink.

NewSkokie is printed on 50% post-consumer recycled content paper with vegetable-based

ink.Copyright © 2012

Managing EditorAnn E. [email protected]

Assistant Editor/LayoutNicholas A. Wyatt

Remants of the Dinkey Line, center of photo.

One of the original Dinkey Line trolley cars. Photo provided by Scott Greig and Bill Robertson from the Glen View Club archives.

Earlier this fall, during the re-construction of the Old Orchard Road/Skokie Boulevard intersection, workers found remnants of an old set of railroad tracks along Old Orchard Road. After a little research, the Village found out it was the remains of the Dinkey Line, a small rail line that transported wealthy Chicagoans from north Evanston to the private Glen View Club.

According to local lore, the Dinkey Line was most crowded on Sundays when thirsty Chicagoans, parched by a city blue law prohibiting the sale of alcoholic beverages on that day, traveled on the little line to a “blind pig,” or speakeasy, which was operated in Harms Woods. The Dinkey Line ran from 1907 to 1935.


Skokie History

Documents

December 2012 NewSkokie - the award winning municipal ... · PDF fileDecember 2012 NewSkokie - the award winning municipal information source ... Shop Local and Win! in this issue