November 2012 ■ NewSkokie - the award winning municipal information source

in this issue2 Welcome New Businesses

3/ Economic 4 Development Update

5 New Fence Height

5 Citizen Survey

6 Construction Summary

6 Community Giving Program

7 Police Notes

9 Health Notes

10/ Community 11 Calendar

In March 2012, Skokie voters authorized the Village to aggregate the purchase of electricity for residents and small businesses. This allowed the Village to negotiate a lower electricity supply rate for these participants. In June and July 2012, Skokie residents who did not “opt-out” of the program were moved to a new electrical supply rate provided by mc². About 97% of all eligible households and small businesses joined the program.

In June and July alone, Skokie residents saved $450,000 compared to ComEd rates. Over $460,000 was saved by Skokie residents in August 2012. Skokie residents and small businesses combined will save $4.7 million on their electricity supply bill through May 2013. How do these savings break down for your household? From July 2012 through May 2013 an average residential customer can expect to save approximately $233 by participating in the program, and an average small business can expect to save $189. There are no special taxes or fees obtained by the Village for this program.

Did you know that 100% renewable energy, such as wind power, also is available through the program? You can subscribe online by visiting www.northshoreelectricityaggregation.com/skokie.html or by calling 1-888-808-7731.

For more information regarding electrical aggregation, please visit www.skokie.org or call 1-888-808-7731. ■

Residents Save Money through Electrical Aggregation

Did you know that you can receive email alerts notifying you that alternate-side parking is in effect after a significant snowfall? By subscribing, you can avoid being ticketed for violating alternate-side parking regulations due to snow. To subscribe, visit www.skokie.org and click on the “Subscribe to SkokieNews” link in the top right-hand corner.

The Alternate-Side Parking Program ensures that streets

are clear for emergency vehicles during a snow accumulation of two inches or more.

Besides subscribing for email alerts, there are numerous ways to learn if Alternate-Side Parking is in effect:

• Call the Snow Hotline at 847/675-7669;

• 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.

For more information on the Alternate-Side Parking Program, please visit www.skokie.org. ■

Sign Up for Alternate Side Parking E-Blast

Through electric aggregation, Skokie residents and small businesses combined will save $4.7 million on their electricity supply bill through May 2013.

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

Welcome New Businesses

Need help raking leaves or shoveling snow? Make sure to get a TeenLink list, which helps connect Skokie residents who are in need of outside seasonal yard work with Skokie teens who are available for hire to do the work.

The updated TeenLink list provides contact information for Skokie teens available to do seasonal yard work. The list includes the name and address of the teen, days available, type of work they are willing to do and their expected rate of pay. Residents can receive the list by mail, fax or email by contacting the Village Manager’s Office at 847/933-8257. The resident is responsible for contacting the teen and for making financial and scheduling arrangements.

Skokie teens can also complete an application for the TeenLink program by contacting the Village Manager’s Office or visiting www.skokie.org to download an application. ■

village

Notes

1st Loans 3557 Dempster Street

Anatomical Worldwide 8111 St. Louis Avenue

Applied Thin Films 8261 Elmwood Avenue

Aura Sense Therapeutics 8045 Lamon Avenue

Aw Yeah Comics 4933 Oakton Street

Beats Provoke Movement 5021-23 Oakton Street

Carters 7145 Carpenter Avenue

Chicago Women’s Basketball 5500 Howard Street

Family Video 3551 Dempster Street

Farmers Insurance Group 3562 Dempster Street

Gorilla Tango Skokie Theatre 7924 Lincoln Avenue

Nirvana Boutique & Spa 4843 Oakton Street

Oberweis 4811 Dempster Street

Red Mango 5230 Dempster Street

Royal Star 4047 Oakton Street

Shabi Hair Design 4648 Oakton Street

Skokie Foot & Ankle Specialist, Ltd. 9933 Lawler Avenue, Suite 315

Skokie Medical Center 8301 Skokie Boulevard

SWK Technologies 8044 Lincoln Avenue

Tony’s Collision Care Center 8219 Christiana Avenue

Turner Acceptance Corp 5900 Howard Street

Walgreens 3945 Dempster Street

Westfield Old Orchard 4999 Old Orchard Center

• Akira, Ann Taylor, Michael Kors and The North Face ■

TeenLink Program

Have you “liked” the Village’s Shop Local Skokie Facebook page yet? If not, you’re missing out on special deals, offers, fun conversation threads and photos of Skokie businesses and events. At press time, over 1,540 people were fans of the page. By liking the page, you show your support for local businesses that contribute to the Skokie tax base. To like the page, visit www.facebook.com/shoplocalskokie.

For more information on the page or to have your favorite Skokie business featured on the page, email info@skokie.org or call 847/933-8257. ■

Every November and March, NewSkokie features the names and addresses of retail and service businesses that have recently opened in Skokie. Please consider shopping locally and contributing to the Skokie economy. Shopping in Skokie is an investment in your neighborhood and community, positively affecting Skokie schools, businesses and jobs.

The following businesses have opened in Skokie since February 2012:

Like Us! ~ Shop Local Skokie

In summer 2012, Red Mango opened at 5230 Dempster Street.

In spring 2012, Gorilla Tango Skokie Theatre opened at 7924 Lincoln Avenue

Village of SkokieFALL 2012 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT UPDATENew and exciting developments are underway on Dempster Street, in Downtown Skokie, on Touhy Avenue, at West�eld Old Orchard and in other areas of Skokie.

Dempster Street• At press time, a combination Oberweis Ice Cream and Dairy Store and That Burger Joint (also owned

by the Oberweis Company) was scheduled to open in late October at the southwest corner of Dempster Street and Skokie Boulevard. The new prototype development includes a drive-thru for ice cream and dairy products, and an outdoor dining area. That Burger Joint will be a quick service, cooked-to-order restaurant specializing in high quality hamburgers and other gourmet sandwiches.

Total investment by Oberweis is estimated at approximately $2 million. The property is located within the Dempster Street Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District. The Village purchased the property, demolished the buildings and conducted environmental remediation, and will be paid back over time through a land sale agreement with Oberweis.

• A new Red Mango recently opened at 5230 Dempster Street and at press time a new 13,125-square-foot Walgreens was scheduled to open in late October at the southeast corner of Dempster Street and Crawford Avenue.

• Kaufman’s Deli at 4905 Dempster Street is recovering from a fall 2011 �re by substantially upgrading and expanding its delicatessen and bakery. The new facility will boast an expanded deli that includes interior dining, refurbished exterior walls and upgrades to the parking areas, landscaping and signage. The iconic Skokie business is expected to re-open in fall 2012.

The Village has created a West Dempster commercial rehab and site improvement program through its new West Dempster TIF District. This program enables the Village to o­er matching funds for signi�cant exterior building and site improvements to existing commercial properties up to $150,000 for a larger, stand-alone building. Both Kaufman’s and a new Papa John’s Pizza were able to take advantage of this program.

Oakton-Skokie CTA Station• The CTA Yellow Line Oakton Station in Downtown Skokie began service on April 30, 2012.

Ridership levels exceed projections, with nearly 900 boardings per weekday and robust weekend utilization. The $20 million station was constructed utilizing $14 million in federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality funds and $6 million from the Village of Skokie Science + Technology District TIF District.

Downtown Skokie• Planning is underway for extensive infrastructure and streetscape improvements on

Oakton Street and sections of Lincoln Avenue in Downtown Skokie to improve vehicular/ pedestrian safety and enhance aesthetics. The multi-million dollar construction

project is expected to begin in 2013 and conclude in 2014. In addition to sewer and water improvements, the project will include new street

paving, sidewalks, street lights, improved parking, street furniture, landscaping, signage and more.

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

Village of SkokieFALL 2012 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT UPDATENew and exciting developments are underway on Dempster Street, in Downtown Skokie, on Touhy Avenue, at West�eld Old Orchard and in other areas of Skokie.

Dempster Street• At press time, a combination Oberweis Ice Cream and Dairy Store and That Burger Joint (also owned

by the Oberweis Company) was scheduled to open in late October at the southwest corner of Dempster Street and Skokie Boulevard. The new prototype development includes a drive-thru for ice cream and dairy products, and an outdoor dining area. That Burger Joint will be a quick service, cooked-to-order restaurant specializing in high quality hamburgers and other gourmet sandwiches.

Total investment by Oberweis is estimated at approximately $2 million. The property is located within the Dempster Street Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District. The Village purchased the property, demolished the buildings and conducted environmental remediation, and will be paid back over time through a land sale agreement with Oberweis.

• A new Red Mango recently opened at 5230 Dempster Street and at press time a new 13,125-square-foot Walgreens was scheduled to open in late October at the southeast corner of Dempster Street and Crawford Avenue.

• Kaufman’s Deli at 4905 Dempster Street is recovering from a fall 2011 �re by substantially upgrading and expanding its delicatessen and bakery. The new facility will boast an expanded deli that includes interior dining, refurbished exterior walls and upgrades to the parking areas, landscaping and signage. The iconic Skokie business is expected to re-open in fall 2012.

The Village has created a West Dempster commercial rehab and site improvement program through its new West Dempster TIF District. This program enables the Village to o­er matching funds for signi�cant exterior building and site improvements to existing commercial properties up to $150,000 for a larger, stand-alone building. Both Kaufman’s and a new Papa John’s Pizza were able to take advantage of this program.

Oakton-Skokie CTA Station• The CTA Yellow Line Oakton Station in Downtown Skokie began service on April 30, 2012.

Ridership levels exceed projections, with nearly 900 boardings per weekday and robust weekend utilization. The $20 million station was constructed utilizing $14 million in federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality funds and $6 million from the Village of Skokie Science + Technology District TIF District.

Downtown Skokie• Planning is underway for extensive infrastructure and streetscape improvements on

Oakton Street and sections of Lincoln Avenue in Downtown Skokie to improve vehicular/ pedestrian safety and enhance aesthetics. The multi-million dollar construction

project is expected to begin in 2013 and conclude in 2014. In addition to sewer and water improvements, the project will include new street

paving, sidewalks, street lights, improved parking, street furniture, landscaping, signage and more.

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NewSkokie ■ November 2012 ■ www.skokie.org | 5www.skokie.org847-933-8447

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Downtown Skokie (continued)• There are currently a total of 16 restaurants in and around Downtown Skokie, including the

critically acclaimed Libertad, (2012 Chicago Magazine 20 Best New Restaurants) and Kabul House (2011 LTHForum.com “Great Neighborhood Restaurant”).

• A number of new businesses have opened in Downtown Skokie in the past year, including Bughouse Studio, Aw Yeah! Comics, Nirvana Boutique and Spa and Siunik Armenian Grill. Two new businesses, Alexander’s Diner and Beats Provoke Movement (BPM) are under construction and will open soon.

• The historic Skokie Theatre is now owned by Gorilla Tango Theatre, a successful Bucktown-based for-pro�t theatre company that features a wide variety of programming in the beauti-fully renovated, acoustically excellent Skokie Theatre space.

The Village of Skokie continues to o�er substantial incentives to qualifying new businesses that locate in Downtown Skokie and provides �nancial assistance to existing Downtown Skokie merchants to upgrade signage, facades and interior improvements, as well as to assist them in their visual merchandising e�orts.

The Village is amending its zoning ordinance to allow for broader interpretation of ‘retail uses’ in and around Downtown Skokie.

Touhy Marketplace• Construction of a new retail shopping center, Touhy Marketplace, is expected to begin soon

along Skokie’s Southern border. Clark Street Development LLC is redeveloping the 16-acre former industrial site at the northwest corner of St. Louis and Touhy Avenues. The develop-ment will include four buildings totaling approximately 195,000 square feet, including a 150,000-square-foot prototype Super Walmart, a proposed 20,000-square-foot o�ce building, 16,100 square feet of divisible retail, and two banks with drive-through facilities. The banks have been announced to be developed and operated by JP Morgan Chase and PNC. The developers are expected to �le for building permits in 2012 with the Super Walmart store opening in fall of 2013.

West�eld Shopping Center Renovation• West�eld Old Orchard Shopping Center is undergoing a $10 million renovation to enhance

the retailing and shopping experience. New canopies over the outdoor walkways will increase store visibility and give the center a more modern look. New sidewalk furniture, lighting and signage are proposed to further enhance the shopping environment. Finally, elements will be added to promote social activities such as a new outdoor children’s play area with an overhead trellis and a “glass cube” that will be used year-round for special events. The project is currently underway and is expected to be completed in early 2013.

Illinois Science + Technology ParkOperated by Forest City Enterprises, Inc.• The Illinois Science + Technology Park in Downtown Skokie and adjacent to the new

Oakton CTA station, continues to grow, with a total of 18 businesses from the nano- and bio-technology, pharmaceutical and health care industries on site. Collectively, these �rms employ approximately 1,300 people. The Village recently allocated $250,000 in TIF funds toward a high school and community college vocational nanotechnician training program. This program is a unique partnership between Oakton Community College, Forest City Enterprises (IS+TP owner), the Village and several other educational entities. The Chicago Community Trust also is providing $250,000 for the initiative.

Village of Skokie Economic Development Division

The Village Board recently approved an ordinance to increase the maximum fence height in residential side yards from four to five feet. Previously, the ordinance only allowed a four foot high fence. The change enhances public safety while maintaining privacy.

The Village regulates fences to ensure that they are properly constructed and do not encroach and allow light/air to adjacent properties. A fence permit is

only required when a fence is installed or replaced.

When applying for a fence permit the following items are needed: a signed copy of the Application for Accessory Structure Permit, a recent plat of survey and two copies of the site plan showing the proposed fence location, length and height. It typically takes one to three working days to issue a fence permit once an application is received. A fence

permit fee is $50 and covers the permit review and all inspections.

The height of the fence depends on what portion of the yard is being fenced. Fences along an interior side lot line of a property generally cannot exceed five feet in height. Fences along the rear lot line of a property or adjacent to an alley generally cannot exceed six feet in height. Fences along the interior side line that abuts or is across an alley from a commercial or mixed-use property cannot exceed six feet in height. Fences along an interior side or rear yard lot line that abut or are across an alley from industrial property cannot exceed eight feet in height. No fences are permitted in a front yard.

Fences may be constructed of typical fencing materials including wood, chain link, vinyl, wrought iron, aluminum or masonry. Fence style and openness are not restricted.

For more information, please contact the Community Development Department at 847/933-8223. ■

New Fence Height Ordinance

NewSkokie ■ November 2012 ■ www.skokie.org | 5

village

Notes

Village Sponsors Non-Perishable Food Drive Support the Niles Township Food PantryThe Village of Skokie has an ongoing non-perishable food drive to benefit the Niles Township Food Pantry.

A large food collection box is located inside the main entrance of Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street. Please consider donating non-perishable food items while purchasing a vehicle sticker, dropping off a permit application or conducting other business at Village Hall.

Acceptable items include: boxed cereals, juices and milk; canned vegetables, fruits, stews, soups, beans and meats; pasta, rice, fruit bars, raisins and crackers; peanut butter and jelly (plastic jars only); and pudding and fruit cups.

Glass jars and perishable items are not accepted.

For more information please contact the Human Services Division at 847/933-8208. ■

Every three years, the Village contracts with the National Research Center (NRC) in Boulder, Colorado, to issue and analyze a five-page, professional written survey to gauge resident opinions on Village programs and services.

In October 2012, 1,200 Skokie homes received the survey. The sample included both single- and multi-family residences randomly selected from all parts of the community.

In coming months, the NRC will analyze the data. During early 2013, the Village will report the results to the community, most likely in a presentation at a Village Board meeting that will be followed by a detailed NewSkokie article. A copy of the survey will be posted on the Village web site.

For further information, please contact the Village Manager’s Office at 847/933-8210 or email info@skokie.org. ■

Triennial Citizen Survey Underway

www.skokie.org847-933-8447

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Downtown Skokie (continued)• There are currently a total of 16 restaurants in and around Downtown Skokie, including the

critically acclaimed Libertad, (2012 Chicago Magazine 20 Best New Restaurants) and Kabul House (2011 LTHForum.com “Great Neighborhood Restaurant”).

• A number of new businesses have opened in Downtown Skokie in the past year, including Bughouse Studio, Aw Yeah! Comics, Nirvana Boutique and Spa and Siunik Armenian Grill. Two new businesses, Alexander’s Diner and Beats Provoke Movement (BPM) are under construction and will open soon.

• The historic Skokie Theatre is now owned by Gorilla Tango Theatre, a successful Bucktown-based for-pro�t theatre company that features a wide variety of programming in the beauti-fully renovated, acoustically excellent Skokie Theatre space.

The Village of Skokie continues to o�er substantial incentives to qualifying new businesses that locate in Downtown Skokie and provides �nancial assistance to existing Downtown Skokie merchants to upgrade signage, facades and interior improvements, as well as to assist them in their visual merchandising e�orts.

The Village is amending its zoning ordinance to allow for broader interpretation of ‘retail uses’ in and around Downtown Skokie.

Touhy Marketplace• Construction of a new retail shopping center, Touhy Marketplace, is expected to begin soon

along Skokie’s Southern border. Clark Street Development LLC is redeveloping the 16-acre former industrial site at the northwest corner of St. Louis and Touhy Avenues. The develop-ment will include four buildings totaling approximately 195,000 square feet, including a 150,000-square-foot prototype Super Walmart, a proposed 20,000-square-foot o�ce building, 16,100 square feet of divisible retail, and two banks with drive-through facilities. The banks have been announced to be developed and operated by JP Morgan Chase and PNC. The developers are expected to �le for building permits in 2012 with the Super Walmart store opening in fall of 2013.

West�eld Shopping Center Renovation• West�eld Old Orchard Shopping Center is undergoing a $10 million renovation to enhance

the retailing and shopping experience. New canopies over the outdoor walkways will increase store visibility and give the center a more modern look. New sidewalk furniture, lighting and signage are proposed to further enhance the shopping environment. Finally, elements will be added to promote social activities such as a new outdoor children’s play area with an overhead trellis and a “glass cube” that will be used year-round for special events. The project is currently underway and is expected to be completed in early 2013.

Illinois Science + Technology ParkOperated by Forest City Enterprises, Inc.• The Illinois Science + Technology Park in Downtown Skokie and adjacent to the new

Oakton CTA station, continues to grow, with a total of 18 businesses from the nano- and bio-technology, pharmaceutical and health care industries on site. Collectively, these �rms employ approximately 1,300 people. The Village recently allocated $250,000 in TIF funds toward a high school and community college vocational nanotechnician training program. This program is a unique partnership between Oakton Community College, Forest City Enterprises (IS+TP owner), the Village and several other educational entities. The Chicago Community Trust also is providing $250,000 for the initiative.

Village of Skokie Economic Development Division

village

Notes

6 | NewSkokie ■ November 2012 ■ www.skokie.org NewSkokie ■ November 2012 ■ www.skokie.org | 7

Downtown Skokie Swift Station Construction of the CTA Yellow Line Oakton Station in Downtown Skokie is complete. The new Kiss-n-Ride lot adjacent to the station and a waiting lot north of Searle Parkway have been constructed. Fall projects include enhancements to Skokie Boulevard Streetscape and landscaping of the area.

Intersection of Skokie Boulevard and Old Orchard Road: Roadway Reconstruction Project Reconstruction of the intersection is planned to be completed in November. The utility improvements including water main and storm sewer are complete. Final installation of the new traffic signal equipment will occur in spring 2013.

Sewer Rehabilitation Sewer lining repairs on Oakton Street between Long and LaCrosse Avenues are complete. Various locations of

Village sewers are being cleaned to prepare them for future rehabilitation.

Water Main Improvements Water main replacement on Old Orchard Road from Lawler to Bronx Avenues is complete. Water and sewer improvements in Downtown Skokie started this fall. Construction plans to replace a water main on Carpenter Road between Touhy and Pratt Avenues are complete.

Sidewalk Improvement Project Work to replace broken sections of sidewalks in the area between Main and Dempster Streets is complete. Concrete street patching and the replacement of broken curb also were completed.

High-Priority Patching Program Repairs to large bituminous patches and berms throughout the Village were completed this fall.

Skokie Multi-Use Path: Oakton Street to Dempster Street In spring 2012, a new path was constructed on the existing railroad right-of-way connecting Oakton and Dempster Streets. Extensive landscaping also was planted and several sculptures were installed.

Residential Street Resurfacing Resurfacing of four miles of residential streets at various locations throughout the Village is being completed in two phases. The first phase is complete and the second phase is being completed this fall.

Illinois Department of Transportation Work at a number of signals along Dempster Street and McCormick Boulevard is complete. A similar project that includes traffic signals on Golf Road and the triangle of Church Street/Gross Point Road/Skokie Boulevard traffic signal started this fall. The resurfacing of Crawford Avenue from Golf to Gross Point Roads is complete and the resurfacing of Church Street from Gross Point Road into Evanston is being completed this fall.

Thank you for your patience and cooperation. ■

2012 Construction Summary

Please consider participating in the 2012 Skokie Community Giving Program that helps Skokie families struggling with limited financial resources celebrate winter holidays.

Families receive gift cards for area businesses which they use to purchase food, household necessities and to buy items specific to each family member’s needs and wants. Last year, nearly 200 families received gift cards through the program.

Those interested in making a donation this year are asked to do so by Friday, December 7, 2012. Please make checks payable to the Village of Skokie, and add Skokie Community Giving Program on the memo line. Send donations to the Human Services Division at 5120 Galitz, Skokie, Illinois 60077.

For further information, please contact the Human Services Division at 847/933-8208. ■

Skokie Community Giving Program ~ Contributions Needed

Skokie-Oakton Skokie Swift Station

Laramie Avenue street resurfacing and curb replacement.

6 | NewSkokie ■ November 2012 ■ www.skokie.org

police

Notes

Preventing Auto Theft During the Winter

Despite big-screen depictions of well-planned and executed burglaries, most are not well planned at all and are, in fact, crimes of opportunity. The burglar is simply looking for an easy target. Are you doing all you can to protect your home and your family from criminal intrusion?

Is your home an easy target? These 20 questions might provide information about prevention measures you may not have considered:

1. Are your house address numbers clearly visible to police officers from the street?

2. Do you keep your ladders and tools in a locked garage or storage shed?

3. When you go out in the evening, do you leave several lights on inside your home?

4. Do you have deadbolt locks on all of your exterior doors?

5. Do you have a home

inventory of all your personal property stored in a safe, fire-proof place?

6. Are the windows and doors of your home clearly visible from the street or from your neighbor’s yard?

7. Are the entries into your home well-lit all night long?

8. Did you re-key all of the locks in your house after you moved in?

9. Are your entry doors made of steel, solid-core wood (at least 1-3/4 inches) or metal-wrapped wooden doors?

10. Do you have a “Neighborhood Watch” established in your area?

11. Do you keep an extra set of keys with a trusted neighbor, rather than hiding a set outside your home?

12. Do your exterior doors fit their frames tightly, with no more than 1/8 inch

space between the door and frame?

13. Are sliding glass doors secured with locks, jammed with a dowel rod from inside, and protected from being easily lifted out of their frames?

14. Do all of your entry doors have a peephole with a wide-angle viewer?

15. When gone, do you have timers on some of your lighting to turn them off and on to create an illusion that someone is home?

16. Can anyone gain access through a mail slot, dryer vent or pet entrance?

17. Have you installed extra motion-sensitive security lighting around your home?

18. Do you shred or otherwise destroy your junk mail before discarding it?

19. Have you installed a home alarm system?

20. Do you have at least one telephone (cell phone) that can be operated without a “land line?”

If you answered yes to most of these questions you’re on track to keeping your home and family safe this holiday season.

For more information, please contact the Skokie Police Crime Prevention Unit at 847/982-5924. ■

NewSkokie ■ November 2012 ■ www.skokie.org | 7

During the colder months, car thieves take advantage of residents who leave their cars running to maintain warmth.

There is a temptation to start the car in the morning and let it warm up (usually while the motorist remains warm inside of a residence). This could be a costly mistake! Many unattended cars are stolen while being warmed up.

Even if you lock the car, it only takes a thief seconds to break a window or jimmy a door lock.

Also, snow blower thefts increase each winter. Record the make, model and serial number of your snow blower, paint a part of the snow blower for identification and secure winter equipment with deadbolts. Encourage your neighbors to do this, too. ■

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).

Protect Your Home this Holiday Season

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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 November 5, 19

Plan Commission November 1, 15

Appearance Commission November 14

Zoning Board of Appeals November 7

The Village Board approved a modification to the Building Code that exempts commercial basements with fire rated compartments no larger than 2,500 sq. ft., and, with fewer basement exits than code requires from installing an automatic sprinkler system if an alarm system is installed and other requirements are met. This exception amendment enhances fire protection and safety of people and structures while reducing the economic burden on small businesses.

The Village Board approved a contract with Glenbrook Excavating for Downtown Skokie utility system improvements. Included in this project is the installation of a new 12” water main on Lincoln Avenue between Oakton and Galitz Streets, new water services and fire water service installation along Oakton Street, sewer lining on Warren Street and the lining of the water main on Oakton Street which travels beneath the CTA Yellow Line tracks. This sub-surface work is being done this year so that the resurfacing of streets in Downtown Skokie can proceed as scheduled in 2013.

The Village Board approved an intergovernmental agreement with the City of Evanston for joint use of the Skokie fire drill tower at 8157 Central Park Avenue, Skokie. Under the agreement the City of Evanston will provide $286,000 to the Village of Skokie for enhancements and renovations to the drill tower.

The Village Board recently approved a contract with Landworks, LTD for landscaping of the Skokie Swift Oakton Station area, waiting area lot and the Kiss-n-Ride parking lot area. Under the contract Landworks, LTD will construct an irrigation system and install landscaping material around the area.

Through the capital improvement budget, the Village Board recently approved the purchase of a new refuse-packer truck and sidewalk plow. During the fall the sidewalk snow plow unit is utilized for leaf collection. Additionally, the Village Board authorized selling at auction old vehicles and equipment including a police vehicle and public works automobile that are in disrepair. ■

Village Board Action

Are you ready for winter weather? The Skokie Public Works Department has purchased 3,800 tons of salt for the coming winter. Homeowners can start preparing their homes now by:

1. Sealing any leaks around doors or windows to reduce drafts that could lead to pipes freezing;

2. Insulating pipes in crawl spaces and attics; and

3. Wrapping interior piping running along outside walls with pipe insulation or heat tape.

During freezing conditions, homeowners should take the following precautions to prevent their pipes from freezing:

- Allow a continuous trickle of water to flow through faucet(s) to help minimize the chances of freezing pipes;

- Never let your thermostat dip below 55 degrees, even when you’re not home; and

- Open cabinet doors in the kitchen and bathrooms to allow the heat from the house to circulate.

A sign that your interior piping may be frozen is evident when there is a reduced trickle of water from your faucet. Do not attempt to thaw a frozen pipe yourself using an open flame. Rather, contact a qualified plumbing contractor to do the work.

For further information about emergency preparedness please visit www.skokie.org. ■

Be Prepared for Winter

health

Notes

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In response to requests from residents, the Health Department is offering stop smoking program afternoon sessions in November and December.

The six-session program begins on Thursday, November 8 at 3 p.m. It also meets at 3 p.m. on Thursday, November 15, 29 and December 6, 13 and 20. The

program will be held at the Skokie Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street.

Public Health nurse Susan Reisberg, RN will conduct the clinic. Ms. Reisberg has received extensive training in smoking cessation/prevention programs. She has a unique style that is very popular with clinic participants.

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

Please register in advance for the program. For more information or to register, contact the Skokie Health Department at 847/933-8252. ■

Stop Smoking Program

Foreign Travel Health TipsSkokie residents frequently travel to other countries where they may encounter preventable infectious diseases. Each year a few Skokie residents return from travel abroad with diseases such as Malaria, Typhoid Fever, Salmonella and other illnesses.

These diseases are preventable if appropriate precautions are taken. This includes vaccinations, medication to prevent illness, frequent use of mosquito repellent and use of bottled/treated water for drinking and brushing teeth. It is particularly important for young children who tend to develop more serious cases of these illnesses.

For those traveling, the Health Department nurses can provide important preventive information and make referrals to a travel clinic to obtain vaccinations and medications for illness prevention.

If you need more information on foreign travel health and safety precautions, call the Health Department at 847/933-8252. ■

Diabetes is a disease that can have devastating consequences if it is not detected and controlled. A simple blood test can determine whether a person may have diabetes.

In conjunction with National Diabetes Month, the Skokie Health Department is offering a diabetes screening clinic for Skokie residents on Tuesday, November 13. The clinic is by appointment only. Individuals who already have diabetes or borderline diabetes are not eligible for screening.

Participants are required to fast for eight hours prior to their scheduled appointment time. The nurse will take a drop of blood from a simple fi nger stick for immediate analysis. The results are given to the client on the spot and referrals are made if necessary. There is a $5 fee for this test.

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

National Diabetes Screening Month

Foreign Travel Health TipsSkokie residents frequently travel to other countries where they may encounter preventable infectious diseases. Each year a few Skokie residents return from travel abroad with diseases such as Malaria, Typhoid Fever, Salmonella and other illnesses.

These diseases are preventable if appropriate precautions are taken. This includes vaccinations, medication to prevent illness, frequent use of mosquito repellent and use of bottled/treated water for drinking and brushing teeth. It is particularly important for young children who tend to develop more serious cases of these illnesses.

For those traveling, the Health Department nurses can provide important preventive information and make referrals to a travel clinic to obtain vaccinations

Thanksgiving Holiday VillageClosuresIn observance of the Thanksgiving holiday, Skokie Village Hall, including the Health Department, will be closed on Thursday, November 22 and Friday, November 23. All clinics normally held on those dates will be cancelled.

The Health Department will resume its regular clinic schedule on Monday, November 26. ■

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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* Immunizations are $5 per person, per clinic visit fee. Appointments are required. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon, except November 22. Wednesdays, November 7 from 5 to 7 p.m. and November 14 and 28 from 2 to 4 p.m.

Well Child Clinic* Monday, November 12 from 8:30 a.m. to noon.

Diabetes Screening* Tuesday, November 13 from 9 a.m. to noon. $5 fee.

Hearing Screening* Friday, November 16 from 9 a.m. to noon.

Simple Cholesterol Screening Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m. (except November 22). Wednesday, November 7 from 5 to 7 p.m. $6 fee.

Lead Screening* Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon (except November 22). Wednesday, November 7 from 5 to 7 p.m. $25 fee.

Body Composition Analysis* Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m. (except November 22). Wednesday, November 7 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 (except November 22). Wednesday, November 7 from 5 to 7 p.m.

Lipid Profile Screening* Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon (except November 22). Wednesday, November 7 from 5 to 7 p.m. $15 fee.

TB Skin Testing* Mondays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon (except November 19 and 23). Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to noon and 2 to 4 p.m. (except November 20). $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, November 8 from 1:30 to 3 p.m.

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

Conversational Yiddish No fee or registration required. Everyone is welcome. Tuesdays, November 20 and 27 at 1:30 p.m.

FOCUS (For Optically Challenged Upbeat Sorts) Wednesday, November 14 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Annex Room at Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street.

Low Vision Support Group Tuesday, November 13 from 1:30 to 3 p.m.

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

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

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, November 5 from 9:15 a.m. to noon.

Stamp Club Wednesdays, November 7 and 21 at 1:30 p.m.

Silver Singers Monday, November 26 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.

Please call the Skokie Fire Department at 847/982-5340 for November 20 program information. Residents: $15 refundable fee. Non-residents: $20 non-refundable fee (check or cash only).

CPR schedule

Holiday Refuse Collection - Week of November 19Monday and Tuesday, November 19 and 20 collection unchanged, attempt to complete Thursday and Friday collections on Wednesday, November 21.Holiday Recycling Collection - Week of November 19Monday, Tuesday and Friday, November 19, 20 and 23 collections unchanged, Thursday, November 22 collection on Wednesday, November 21. For a list of recyclable items, please visit www.skokie.org.For more information please visit www.skokie.org or call the Skokie Public Works Department at 847/933-8427.

Refuse & Recycling Collection Schedule

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Calendarcommunity

International Gaming Day Saturday, November 3 at 3 p.m.

Young Steinway Concert Sunday, November 4 at 3 p.m.

Teach Yourself Technology Monday, November 5 at 7 p.m.

ABCs of Photo Organizing Wednesday, October 7 at 7 p.m.

Dining for Wellness Cooking Demonstration Thursday, November 8 at 2 p.m.

Long-Term Care Insurance: What You Need to Know Thursday, November 8 at 7 p.m.

Alternatives to the Resume Monday, November 12 at 7 p.m.

Holiday Buying Guide Tuesday, November 13 at 7 p.m.

In Full Swing Jazz Orchestra Sunday, November 18 at 3 p.m.

Library Closed Thursday, November 22

Protect Yourself from Health Care Fraud Wednesday, November 28 at 7 p.m.

A Christmas Carol: The Musical The Devonshire Playhouse presents the classic Dickens’ tale featuring the story of Ebenezer Scrooge! November 3 through 28. Call 847/674-1500, ext. 2400 for dates and ticket information. 4400 Greenwood Street.

Princess Ball This parent-child dance is sure to please all princesses. Attendees should wear their finest royal attire and every child will receive their own special invitation in the mail. Join us for a night of dancing, food, fun and of course, a visit from Cinderella, Belle and Snow White! Pre-registration is required, there will be no at-the-door registration. Ages 3+, $30 -$36, additional person $10-$12. November 10 from 5 to 7 p.m. 4701 Oakton Street.

Unique Birthday Parties Celebrate family and children’s birthdays with a variety of unusual themes, from nature, to history, to skating, to dance and more! Call 847/674-1500 for more party information.

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 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 Sunday, November 2 through December 9.

Ars Viva Symphony Orchestra In the Center Theatre. Sunday, November 4 at 3 p.m.

Hershey Felder as George Gershwin Alone In the Center Theatre. Saturday, November 10 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, November 11 at 2 p.m.

Mathemagic™ starring Bradley Fields Youtheatre in the Center Theatre. Thursday, November 15 at 10 a.m. and noon.

Chicago Children’s Theatre’s Harold and the Purple Crayon In the Center Theatre. Wednesday, November 14 at 10 a.m. and noon; Friday, November 16 at 10 a.m., noon and 6:30 p.m.; and Sunday, November 18 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Skippyjohn Jones Youtheatre in the Center Theatre. Thursday, November 29 at 10 a.m. and noon.

This year, Daylight Savings Time officially ends on Sunday, November 4, 2012 when clocks are set back one hour at 2 a.m.

Turn Back Your Clocks!

Village of Skokie5127 Oakton Street Skokie, Illinois 60077

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

SKOKIE, IL

CAR-RT-PRESORTPresorted Standard

US Postage PAID

Skokie, ILPermit No. 307

What I Love About Skokie

Village of Skokie

www.skokie.org1660 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

The Village continues to receive messages from residents listing the many things they love about Skokie. During summer 2012, What I Love About Skokie forms were available in Village Hall, and here is a sample of what Skokie residents had to say:

“I love how Skokie has awesome events like police tours and fi re station tours, 4th of July parades, and fun kids events. I also love Skokie because we have the Skokie Library and the Weber Center and fun pools. And I love how Skokie keeps our community nice and safe. I feel great living in Skokie! I love Skokie! I also love the Skokie camps, movies in the park, Wednesdays on the Green and Skokie Schools!” - Hannah F., 10-year resident

“Skokie is so green and leafy, the people are (often) down-to-earth and friendly, and it has a sense of history. And things are hopping!” - Gail S., four-month resident

“I like Skokie because of the schools and all of the programs, the train station and the people and that it’s a very helpful, calm community. PS: and Downtown Skokie!” - Victoria G., 12-year resident

“Skokie has big city conveniences with a small town feeling of community values. There is a multi-cultural community that welcomes everyone and includes everyone. The city services are marvelous and the police offi cers are polite! Fire department has provided valuable and life-saving services to the elderly in my condo complex. A++++ town!” - Sherry G., four-year resident

“Everything – schools, government, taxes, services, boards and commissions, transportation, facilities, commercial/industrial districts. It’s a wonderful place to live!” - Sharon A., 42-year resident

Many residents praised the Skokie Public Library and the Skokie Park District. Several residents also expressed concern about property taxes. The Village is aware that property taxes are an important community issue, and thus, the Village has frozen its portion of property taxes since 1990. The 2012 property tax levy was approximately $15.4 million, and the Village’s portion of an average property tax bill was approximately seven percent. The 1990 levy also was $15.4 million, but at that time, the Village’s share of an average property tax bill was just over 15 percent. The Village has been able to sustain the property tax freeze due to proactive economic development, thus reducing reliance on property tax revenues, and also because of austere budgeting and holding the line on expenses. ■

Managing EditorAnn E. Tennesinfo@skokie.org

Assistant Editor/LayoutNicholas A. Wyatt

10-year-old Hannah F. loves Skokie!