Help Shape Skokie’s Future
The Village is developing a five year strategic plan to serve as a roadmap for Skokie’s future. We need your input to help plan for the years ahead!
What is a Strategic Plan?
A strategic plan outlines a community’s vision, goals and priorities and guides decisionmaking and resource allocation. It helps align Village services, infrastructure and policies with community needs and future growth.
How to Participate
Your input is essential in developing a plan that reflects the community’s needs and priorities. Here are a few ways you can help shape Skokie’s future:
• Take the Strategic Planning Engagement Survey. Visit skokie.org/ strategicplan or scan the QR code. The survey, which can be translated into multiple languages using your Internet browser’s translation tool, takes 6 to 8 minutes to complete, and will remain open through Saturday, October 11. Paper copies are also available at Skokie Public Library and through community partners.
• Attend the Community Visioning Session. Join your neighbors to help shape Skokie’s future on Sunday, October 5, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Niles West High School (Main Gym), 5701 Oakton St. The evening will begin with welcoming remarks, followed by small group discussions. Your input will directly inform the Village’s new Strategic Plan. Space is limited and advance registration is required at skokie.org/strategicplan or call 847-933-8210.
• Be Part of a Focus Group. The Strategic Plan Initiative Roadmap and Inclusion Team (SPIRIT) – a volunteer group of community members appointed by the mayor – is supporting outreach to a diverse group of community groups and stakeholders to ensure all voices are heard. If you’re unable to attend the community visioning session on October 5 and are interested in participating in a focus group instead, email strategic plan@skokie.org or call 847-933-8210.
Scan the QR code with your mobile phone to take the Strategic Planning survey online.
Following Community Outreach
The Village’s strategic planning consultant, CP2, will organize and present survey and public input data to the Village Board of Trustees later this fall. This information – along with data from the Village’s triennial Community Survey and Community Development Block Grant Community Needs Survey, will inform the Board’s discussion and development of a strategic plan to be presented for consideration later this year.
Photo: Joerg Metzner Photography
Cruz the Turtle and Transportation Engineer Erik Sanchez hit the road in style during the “Summer of ’25” public information campaign.
25 MPH Speed Limit Coming to Residential Streets in Skokie
On June 16, the Village Board approved an ordinance to lower the speed limit on most residential streets in Skokie from 30 miles per hour (mph) to 25 mph. This change will go into effect on March 1, 2026, and is part of a broader effort to create safer, more livable neighborhoods.
Why the Change?
Speed studies show that 96 percent of drivers on Skokie residential streets are traveling near or below 25 mph. Lowering the posted speed limit will help align the signage with driver behavior while encouraging greater consistency and predictability on the road. The goal is to increase awareness, promote safer speeds, and improve pedestrian safety.
Slower speeds come with significant safety benefits:
• Increased driver peripheral vision
• Shorter stopping distances
• Fewer and less severe crashes
• Reduced risk of fatality for pedestrians and cyclists in the event of a collision
What Streets Are Affected?
The 25 mph limit will apply to most residential streets. It does not apply to:
• State or County-owned roadways
• Streets already posted at 20 mph
• Select streets with unique traffic considerations
Spreading the Word: Summer of ’25
To raise awareness, the Village has introduced the “Summer of ’25” public information campaign. Staff from multiple departments—along with members of the Public Safety Commission—have conducted outreach at community events, including Wednesdays on the Green, National Night Out, and Skokie’s Backlot Bash, to share information and answer questions about the upcoming change.
Speed Limit Sign Changes
Existing 30 mph speed limit signs within residential streets will be replaced with 25 mph speed limit signs. Additional signs will be installed where necessary.
Ascione Bistro Debuts in the Heart of Downtown Skokie
This summer, Downtown Skokie welcomed Ascione Bistro, a modern Italian restaurant located in the Highpoint building at 8006 Lincoln Avenue. The spacious 5,000-squarefoot restaurant is the second location for husband-and-wife team Alex Argirov and Lauren Lucchesi, who first opened the original Ascione in Hyde Park.
Known for its elevated yet approachable atmosphere, Ascione Bistro has quickly become a must-visit destination. Guests can enjoy a thoughtfully crafted menu, attentive service, and inviting ambiance, along with a 24-seat bar and an outdoor patio in the Highpoint courtyard.
Rooted in southern Italian tradition, the menu features handmade pastas, prime steaks, and fresh seafood, alongside salads, burgers, and sandwiches.
Ascione’s arrival adds to the growing energy in Downtown Skokie, where foot traffic has climbed by more than 10% over the past year. Recent additions include The Spot Rotary Hot Pot and the relaunch of Jamaican favorite De-Jred. More options are on the way, with Bon Bon Bakeshop (pastries, chocolates and gelato) and Sizzle (halal burgers, fries and boba drinks) set to open soon.
The warm, modern interior of Ascione Bistro offers guests a welcoming space to enjoy handmade pastas, prime steaks and more.
Nicholas Eschner Appointed Skokie Fire Chief
Village Manager John Lockerby has appointed Nicholas Eschner as Skokie Fire Chief following the retirement of Chief Jeff Hoeflich after nearly four decades of service.
Eschner, a 17-year veteran of the department, previously served as deputy chief, overseeing key areas, including the Training Division, Support Services, Fire Prevention Bureau, Fleet Services, Logistics and Buildings & Grounds operations.
He has played a key role in securing more than $1.75 million in federal FEMA Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) and SAFER grants, supporting equipment upgrades and funding three firefighter positions for three years. Eschner also led the department’s successful effort to retain its ISO Class 1 rating, placing Skokie among the top 1 percent of fire departments nationwide.
“Nick brings a deep commitment to innovation, training and teamwork to this important role,” said Lockerby. “I’m confident he will continue to advance the department and maintain the high standard of fire and life safety services that our community expects.”
Eschner began his career with Skokie in 2008 and holds advanced degrees in fire administration and safety technology. He also serves as the chief liaison for the MABAS Division 3 Technical Rescue Team.
“I’m truly honored for the opportunity to continue serving the Skokie community and the Skokie Fire Department as fire chief,” said Eschner.
Newly promoted members of the Fire Department at the August 18 Village Board meeting. From left: Deputy Fire Chief Adam Pease, Fire Chief Nicholas Eschner, Fire Captain James Cortilet and Fire Lieutenant Jason Dziedzic.
“I look forward to building on the well-established culture of excellence and professionalism instilled within our members to advance the department and meet the evolving needs of our community.”
Pease Appointed Deputy Chief
Chief Eschner has appointed Adam Pease to serve as the department’s deputy chief of operations. In his new role, Deputy Chief Pease will focus on operations, professional development and enhancing community relationships. Pease previously served as battalion chief, and as the department’s medical officer/EMS coordinator.
Patriot Day 9/11 Remembrance
Ceremonies
On Thursday, September 11, the Skokie Fire Department will host ceremonies in remembrance of those lost in the attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001.
Ceremonies will take place at the flagpole of all three Skokie Fire stations beginning at 8:57 a.m. At 8:59 a.m. (time of the World Trade Center South Tower collapse), a “last alarm” bell ceremony will take place followed by a minute of silence at 9 a.m.
Fire station locations include
• Fire Station 16, 7424 Niles Center Rd.
• Fire Station 17, 8157 Central Park Ave.
• Fire Station 18, 9024 Gross Point Rd.
All are welcome to attend.
Flags are lowered to half-staff at the 2024 Patriot Day remembrance ceremony.
Fall Yard Cleanup: Help Keep Rats Away
Rat activity in Skokie is down 59 percent over the past year thanks to community-wide efforts. But, as fall arrives, rats begin searching for warm, hidden places to nest. Fall yard cleanup plays a critical role in preventing infestations.
Follow these simple steps to help keep your yard free of rats:
• Rake and remove fallen leaves regularly— damp leaf piles make ideal nests
• Trim overgrown shrubs and weeds, especially near your foundation
• Store firewood off the ground and away from buildings
• Harvest your garden and clean up fallen produce
• Scrub grills before storing them
• Pick up pet waste daily
• Keep trash bins sealed and clean
• Dump standing water from buckets, birdbaths and other containers
Clean Alleys Matter, Too
Overgrown vegetation in alleys hides burrows and blocks inspections. Property owners must maintain vegetation behind fence lines—even if it borders an alley.
To help:
• Trim and clear alley fence lines
• Remove debris or firewood
• Report burrows or rat sightings at nomore rats.org
Your continued cooperation is essential. For concerns or questions, contact: nomorerats@ skokie.org
Safety Tips for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Fire Prevention Week: October 5 - 11
This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” The campaign highlights the importance of using lithium-ion batteries safely, specifically when it comes to buying, charging and recycling.
Here are a few key safety tips:
• Buy certified products: When purchasing devices powered by lithium-ion batteries, look for safety certification marks such as UL, ETL or CSA. These indicate that the product meets essential safety standards.
• Charge devices safely: Always use the charger that came with your device and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Charge on a hard, flat surface, and avoid overcharging. Unplug the device or remove the battery once fully charged.
• Recycle responsibly: Never dispose of lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins—they can cause fires. For guidance on recycling locations, contact the Health and Human Services Environmental Health Division at 847-933-8484.
Fire Prevention Week has been observed since 1925 in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. It remains one of the longest-running public health campaigns in the country.
Know an Outstanding Skokie Business?
The Village’s Consumer Affairs Commission is accepting nominations for the 2025 Business of the Year through September 30, 2025. Share which store, service or business provides the most outstanding service to you.
There are two ways to nominate a business:
• Complete the online form at skokie.org/BusinessoftheYear or by scanning the QR code.
• Mail nominations to Skokie Village Hall
Attn: Consumer Affairs Commission
5127 Oakton St. Skokie, IL 60077
Explore Solar Options in Skokie
Save money, support clean energy, and take advantage of limited-time benefits
The Village is making it easier than ever to go solar. Whether you’re interested in putting solar panels on your home or signing up for community solar, there are programs available to help you lower your electric bill while supporting renewable energy in Illinois.
Act Now to Claim the 30 Percent Federal Tax Credit
If you’re thinking about installing rooftop solar panels, now is the time to get started. The 30 percent federal tax credit for residential solar systems will expire at the end of 2025.
To qualify for the full credit, your system must be installed and operational by December 31, 2025. The credit covers:
• Solar panels and equipment
• Labor and installation costs
• Permit fees
• Electrical upgrades related to the system
Because solar installations take time, and contractors may be booked months in advance, you’re encouraged to start planning soon.
Free Solar Panels Available for Eligible Households
Some Skokie homeowners may qualify for free solar panels through Cook County’s Sun and Save Program. This program is open to owners of single-family homes and small multi-family buildings (up to four units).
To qualify, you must:
• Own and live in the property
• Have a household income between 80 and 120 percent of the area median income
• Have a roof that is in good condition
To learn more, visit cookcountyil.gov/sunandsave
No Roof Needed: Community Solar Offers Easy Savings
Community solar allows you to support renewable energy and save money without installing panels on your home. When you subscribe to a local solar farm, you receive credits on your monthly electric bill. These credits lower your electricity costs and support the production of clean energy in Illinois.
With community solar, you’ll continue to receive electricity from your utility company, and your service will not change. If there’s a power outage or issue, your utility provider will respond as usual.
Benefits of Community Solar:
• Save 10 to 15 percent on your electric bill
• No rooftop equipment or installation required
• No upfront costs
• Open to residents even if you’re not a ComEd customer
Community Solar Programs Serving Skokie:
• North Shore Community Solar (MC Squared): northshorecommunity solar.com
• Nexamp x Skokie (New in 2025): nexamp.com/skokie
How Community Solar Billing Works:
Community solar participants receive two monthly bills:
• Your regular utility bill, reduced by the value of your solar credits
• A bill from your community solar provider, charging you for those credits at a discounted rate
For example, if your solar credits are worth $100 and your discount is 15 percent, your utility bill would be $100 lower, and you would pay $85 to the solar provider. Your total savings would be $15.
Get Started Today
For questions, contact Sustainability Coordinator Lisa Sanzenbacher at 847-933-8282.
Remember! Three Easy Ways to Compost in Skokie
Help fight climate change and keep food scraps out of the landfill! Skokie residents can:
• Use Free Drop-Off Sites – Open 24/7 at locations across town.
• Sign Up for Curbside Pickup – Choose from two approved compost vendors.
• Compost at Home – Get a $25 rebate on an approved backyard bin.
Get all the details at skokie.org/composting
SEPTEMBER EVENTS
Skokie Farmers’ Market
The Skokie Farmers’ Market continues its 50th anniversary celebration every Sunday through November 2 from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the west Village Hall parking lot at 5127 Oakton St. A schedule of events can be found at skokie.org/ farmersmarket.
Reminders:
• Dogs and pets are not permitted in the Market
• The Skokie Farmers’ Market is a smoke-free outdoor market.
Village Board Meetings
September 2 and 15, 7:30 p.m. See page 8.
CPR Skills Testing
Saturday, September 20 at Fire Station 17, 8157 Central Park Ave. Fees apply and advance resistration is required at skokie.org/cpr
OCTOBER EVENTS
Strategic Plan Community Visioning Session
Sunday, October 5, 6 p.m. See page 1. Advance registration is required at skokie.org/ strategicplan or call 847-933-8210.
Village Board Meetings
October 9 and 21, 7:30 p.m. See page 8.
CPR Skills Testing
Saturday, October 18 at Fire Station 17, 8157 Central Park Ave. Fees apply and advance registration is required at skokie.org/cpr
Skokie Beat Meetings
Locate your police beat at skokie.org/beat.
• Beat 310: October 3 at 9 a.m., Nordstron Cafe, 4937 Old Orchard Ctr.
• Beat 311: October 9 at 7 p.m., Devonshire Cultural Center, 4400 Greenwood St.
• Beat 312: October 22 at 6 p.m., Middleton Elementary School, 8300 St. Louis Ave.
• Beat 313: October 23 at 6 p.m., Emily Oaks Nature Center, 4650 Brummel St.
• Beats 314 & 315: October 27 at 6 p.m., Skokie Public Library, 5215 Oakton St.
• Beats 316 & 317: October 28 at 6 p.m., Oakton Community Center, 4701 Oakton St.
Volunteer Palooza, October 19
Support your community! Explore Skokie organizations, find volunteer opportunities (ages 16+), and enjoy a family activity benefiting a local nonprofit.
When: Sunday, October 19, 2025, 2–4 p.m.
Where: Oakton College (Skokie Campus), 7701 Lincoln Ave.
Presented by Skokie Public Library, Village of Skokie, Skokie Community Foundation, Skokie Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Oakton College and Akin for Action.
NOVEMBER EVENTS
Meet Your Skokie Village Departments, November 5
Meet Village representatives and become more familiar with Village services and programs at Skokie Public Library (Radmacher Room) on Wednesday, November 5, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Drop in to talk with Communications and Engagement, Health and Human Services, Public Works, and more. We’ll have light refreshments and will answer some frequently asked questions, so even if you don’t have something specific you want to know, you can still come and learn!
Village Board Meetings
November 3 and 17, 7:30 p.m. See page 8.
Live Well, Age Well
Friday, November 7, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. See back page.
CPR Skills Testing
Saturday, November 15 at Fire Station 17, 8157 Central Park Ave. Fees apply and advance registration is required at skokie.org/cpr
Spooky Fun for the Whole Family in Downtown Skokie
Get your costumes ready! Downtown Skokie will be the place to be this Halloween. Join the Village of Skokie, Skokie Chamber of Commerce and Kaleidoscope Dance and Movement Center for the annual Trick-or-Treat & Halloween event on Saturday, October 25, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Little ghosts, superheroes, princesses and pumpkins can trick-or-treat their way through Downtown Skokie, starting at the Crafty Beaver parking lot on Oakton Street and heading west to Lincoln Avenue, then north to St. Peter Church and south to Galitz Street.
The fun does not stop with candy. Families can enjoy live DJ music, activity stations and plenty of spooky surprises along the way.
Bring the whole family, show off your costumes and make magical Halloween memories in the heart of Skokie.
A Gift That Keeps on Giving—All January!
This holiday season, make your gift double the delight! Starting Small Business Saturday, November 29, grab a stylish reusable coffee mug at select Skokie spots and enjoy free coffee or tea all January 2026.
Perfect for gifting and good for the community, $5 from every mug sale goes to the Skokie Community Foundation.
Pick up your mug beginning November 29 at:
• Qahwah House, 5238 W. Touhy Ave.
• Complimentary Café, 4933 Oakton St.
• Will’s Place, 7927 Lincoln Ave.
• Blue Kale, 4907 Oakton St.
2024 Artistic Excellence Award recipients Music Theater Works and Jay Ryan pictured with members of the Skokie Fine Arts Commission.
Call for Nominations: Skokie Artistic Excellence Award
Know an outstanding artist or arts group in Skokie? The Skokie Fine Arts Commission is now accepting nominations for the 2025 Award for Artistic Excellence.
Each year, one individual and one organization are honored for exceptional contributions to the visual, performing, musical or literary arts. Selection is based on community visibility, artistic talent, impact, recognition and overall excellence.
Recipients are recognized at a Village Board meeting, and their names are added to a permanent plaque at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts.
Submit nominations by Friday, October 31 at skokie.org/artsaward
Village Board Action
The Village Board meets on the first and third Mondays of each month in the Council Chambers of Skokie Village Hall, 5127 Oakton St. Meetings begin at 7:30 p.m.
Upcoming Village Board Meetings
September 2* and 15 October 9* and 21*
November 3 and 17
* Meeting occurs on alternate day of the week due to holiday observances.
Meeting agendas are published at skokie.org on the Thursday prior to the meeting date.
Public comments may be:
• Submitted to publiccomments@skokie.org
• Mailed or hand-delivered to Skokie Village Hall, 5127 Oakton St., Skokie, Illinois, 60077, Attention: Village Manager’s Office;
• Placed in the exterior drop box on the west side of Skokie Village Hall.
Comments received prior to or during the meeting will be provided to the Village Board and will not be read aloud. Individuals wishing to speak at a Village Board meeting will be allocated three minutes to do so according to the meeting agenda.
The Village Board recently:
• Adopted the FY26 Budget, which is balanced and continues the Village’s mission of delivering quality public services, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and fostering a thriving community. Learn more at skokie.org/budget
• Approved the purchase of a new alerting siren warning system, which will improve coverage by adding four new sirens across Skokie and include the capability of broadcasting clear voice messages with specific instructions in addition to siren tones.
• Adopted a 25 miles per hour (mph) speed limit for most residential streets in Skokie. The change will be effective March 1, 2026. See page 2 for more information.
• Approved pedestrian crossing improvements for the Skokie Valley Trail at Lincoln Avenue. Improvements will include the installation of three rectangular flashing beacons to enhance safety.
• Approved a resolution supporting a Cook County Class 6B property tax incentive to facilitate the purchase and redevelopment of 8110-8130 St. Louis Ave. for Grace Packaging, which specializes in the production of eco-friendly paper packaging products.
• Approved a contract with Matrix Consulting Group to review the Village’s permitting process and provide recommendations employing best practices for municipal permit operations and guidance for implementation.
• Approved an updated water rate ordinance and a recommendation to maintain a 1 percent sales tax on eligible grocery sales.
More information can be found at www.skokie.org. Village Board Meeting agendas are published at www.skokie.org on the Thursday prior to the meeting date. Each meeting includes a period for public comments. All residents are invited to watch Village Board meetings live-streamed on the Village of Skokie YouTube channel or on SkokieVision cable channel 25 (RCN) or channel 17 (Comcast). Meetings also are rebroadcast on both cable channels during the weeks following each meeting. See www.skokie.org for a full calendar of meetings.
Five Ways to Prepare for Emergencies
September is Emergency Preparedness Month – there’s no better time to ensure you and your family are ready for an emergency. Here are five simple steps you can take:
Sign up for Smart911
Visit skokie.org/smart911 or text AlertSkokie to 226787.
The Village uses the Smart911 emergency notification system to send alerts regarding severe weather and other significant public safety incidents. The Village will test the systemn at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, September 2. Creating an optional Safety Profile allows you to include information on medical conditions, preferred medical providers, emergency contacts and more that would then be available to emergency responders to help them better assist you. This information is even available when traveling if the 911 center receiving your call participates in Smart911.
Add contacts to the Secretary of State Emergency Contact Database
You can add up to two people to serve as your emergency contacts if you’re involved in a traffic crash or have a medical emergency in which you are unable to communicate with emergency responders. You can also add basic information on disabilities, medical conditions or special needs. This information is only made available through law enforcement. Visit apps.ilsos.gov/eci to register.
Create an emergency supply kit
Have emergency supply kits ready for your home and vehicle with water, food, medications, firstaid items, a flashlight, warm clothing and other essential items. Visit skokie.org or ready.gov/kit for a list of recommended items.
Have an emergency plan
Prearrange a place to stay with family or friends in the event of a serious incident that could displace you from your home. Have emergency contact information readily available and make sure everyone in your family understands the plan.
Familiarize yourself with emergency shelters
Many facilities may be available as warming or cooling centers in the event of extreme temperatures, including Skokie Public Library, Oakton Community Center, Weber Leisure Center, Devonshire Cultural Center, Niles Township and Cook County Courthouse. Hours vary by location.
Fall Holiday Schedule
Labor Day, Monday, September 1
Refuse & Recycling:
• Monday collection on Tuesday
• Tuesday collection on Wednesday
• Thursday & Friday as normal
• Yard waste will be collected on Saturday
Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 27
Refuse & Recycling:
• Monday collection as normal
• Tuesday collection as normal
• Thursday collection on Wednesday
• Friday collection as normal
Village Hall will be closed on Monday, September 1, Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28.
Fall Cleanup: Leaf Collection and Yard Waste
Leaf
Collection
On Monday, October 13, Skokie Public Works will begin seasonal leaf collection, continuing through early December, weather permitting.
How it works: Instead of bagging leaves in landscape bags, you can rake leaves into the street next to the curb in front of your home. Please do not place leaves in the street prior to October 11. Crews make rounds throughout Skokie, collecting the leaves every five to seven days as weather permits.
Guidelines:
• Rake leaves away from parked cars –about two car lengths are needed for safe operations.
• Do not park on leaf piles.
• Be mindful of fire hydrants and keep them visible.
• Wetting leaves while piled prevents them from blowing away.
• Do not rake leaves onto or in sewer drains.
• Do not add twigs, branches or other garden debris to leaf piles, as these items can damage equipment. Grass clippings are not allowed for yard waste or leaf collection.
Yard Waste
The final weekly yard waste collection will be on Wednesday, November 12. For more information on the Village’s leaf and yard waste collection programs, visit skokie.org
Monthly Donation Drives at the Skokie Farmers’ Market
The Skokie Commission on Family Services hosts donation drives from 9 a.m. to noon on the last Sunday of every month (August 31, September 28 and October 26) at the Skokie Farmers’ Market.
How you can participate: Donate new and gently used clothing (all sizes), as well as non-perishable food and toiletries. Donations are collected at the main entrance to the Farmers’ Market — look for the Skokie Commission on Family Services banner.
Local impact: All items benefit the Niles Township Food Pantry and Clothing Closet at St. Paul Lutheran Church, organizations which serve local families in need. In 2024, over 175 bags of clothing and 1,100 pounds of non-perishables were collected.
Support Skokie Families in Need
Would you like to bring extra warmth and hope to a Skokie family this year? The Village’s Assist-A-Family (AAF) program helps local households facing financial hardship by providing emergency assistance throughout the year—and spreading holiday cheer through gift card donations.
Making the Holidays Brighter
Each winter, the Skokie Health and Human Services Department provides eligible families with gift cards to local stores so they can purchase essentials, like food and household supplies. In 2024, the program supported 316 Skokie households during the holiday season.
Emergency Help Year-Round
The AAF Emergency Financial Assistance Program also supports lowincome Skokie residents experiencing unexpected challenges, such as difficulty paying for rent, mortgage or utility bills.
How You Can Help
Your donation makes a real impact in our community. There are two easy ways to give:
• Online: Visit skokie.org/assist to make a secure donation.
• Mail: Village of Skokie Health and Human Services Department 5127 Oakton Street Skokie, IL 60077
(Make the check payable to the Village of Skokie and write “Skokie Assist-A-Family Program” on the memo line.)
For more information, please contact Skokie Health and Human Services at 847-933-8252.
Thank you for helping make a difference for our neighbors in need.
Get Ready for Skokie’s 2025 Flu Shot Clinics
Flu season is around the corner, and the Village of Skokie is making it easy for residents to protect themselves. This year’s flu shot clinics will be held at the Oakton Park Community Center, 4701 Oakton Street, on the following dates:
• Thursday, October 9, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Thursday, October 16, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Flu shots are available by appointment only, and residents must show proof of residency. The senior dose will again be offered for those age 65 and older.
Appointments open on Wednesday, September 3 at 9 a.m. To schedule, visit skokie.org or call 847-933-8252.
Don’t wait until flu season peaks—reserve your spot early to stay healthy this fall.
North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie
North Shore Center Presents
Red Hot Chilli Pipers
September 3 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Caroline Rhea
September 6 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
An Evening with Roger McGuinn
September 10 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Vitamin String Quartet – The Music of Taylor Swift, Bridgerton, and Beyond
September 12 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Monkeys On A String – A Tribute to Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds
September 13 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Leonid and Friends – 2025 or 6 to 4 Tour
September 19 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Leslie Jones – Live!
September 20 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
The Martin Sexton Abbey Road Show
September 26 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Paula Poundstone
September 27 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Joss Stone – Less is More
September 28 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Orleans and Firefall
October 10 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
The Lightfoot Band
October 11 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
North Shore Center and Giordano Dance
Chicago Present: Ignite the Soul!
October 18 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Tab Benoit – I Hear Thunder Tour
October 21 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Jesse Cook
October 23 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Kindred the Family Soul
October 25 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Aaron Diehl Trio
October 30 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Jon Schmidt of the Piano Guys
November 4 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Hot Tuna
November 5 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Give ‘Em Hell Harry
November 7 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
A Tribute to Mad Dogs and Englishmen
November 8 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Naturally 7
November 16 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
A Tribute to the Last Waltz
November 22 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Jim Brickman
November 29 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
The First Lady of Television
September 4 at the North Theatre
Music Theater Works Northlight Theatre
Godspell
October 23 at the North Theatre
For more information and tickets to the above performances, visit NorthShoreCenter.org.
Fall Events at The Storefront
Located at 4051 Main Street, The Storefront is a welcoming space for artists, makers and creatives of all kinds. This fall, it’s buzzing with performances, art, and relaxation experiences for the community.
Hot Flashes & Fierce Tales: Stories from Menopause, Midlife, and Beyond
Wednesday, September 10
When midlife and menopause are talked about openly, they replace shame and isolation with connection and humor. This evening of live storytelling will feature a number of performers from Chicago’s vibrant storytelling scene, sharing powerful, funny, and deeply human experiences. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry—and maybe have a hot flash or two!
Star Sound Bath Meditation
Wednesdays, September 24, October 29 and November 26
Unwind with a luxury group meditation experience, complete with live instruments and guided relaxation. Perfect for all experience levels— just bring a yoga mat and an open mind.
Yolanda Castrejon Art Exhibit
October 6–12
See the vivid colors and intricate detail of works by Skokie’s own selftaught artist Yolanda Castrejon, on display for one week only.
More events are being planned—visit skokie.org/thestorefront for the latest schedule or to learn how you can host a workshop, exhibit, or performance at The Storefront.
The Storefront is part of the Village ’s larger initiative to revitalize the Main Street Commercial Corridor. Programming is managed by the Skokie Fine Arts Commission.
Skokie Council/Manager
Government Since 1957 www.skokie.org
Officials
Mayor Ann Tennes
Clerk
Minal Desai
Trustees
Jim Iverson
Kimani Levy
Lissa Levy
Alison Pure Slovin
Keith A. Robinson
Gail Schechter
Manager
John T. Lockerby
Interim Counsel
Barbara Mangler
Phone Numbers
Emergency
9-1-1
Crime Tip Hotline
847/933-TIPS (8477)
Information
847/673-0500
Fire Non-Emergency
847/982-5300
Police
Non-Emergency
847/982-5900
Animal Control
847/982-5970
Village Hall
847/673-0500
Citizens Assistance
847/933-8480
Departments
Civil Engineering
847/933-8231
Clerk’s Office
847/933-8203
Community Development
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Village of Skokie
5127 Oakton Street Skokie, Illinois 60077
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Live Well, Age Well Skokie, November 7
Learn about resources and strategies to help you live and age well at a free health and wellness event this fall!
The Village’s Health and Human Services Department encourages everyone to attend Live Well, Age Well Skokie (formerly Boomers and Beyond) at Oakton Community Center, 4701 Oakton St., on Friday, November 7, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Attend the event and receive helpful information and expert advice about:
• Local resources
• Medicare
• Fitness and nutrition
• Social activities
• Financial products
• Assistive devices
• Senior housing
• Cognitive wellness
Programs will be provided throughout the day on cognitive wellness, yoga, music and art therapy, and Syndrome of Chronic Symptoms (SOCS). Take advantage of free health screenings and enjoy refreshments and giveaways.