Fall 2025 Focus On Niles

Focus On Niles

Fall/Winter 2025 Village Newsletter | vniles.com Revised Online Edition

IN THIS ISSUE Letter from the Mayor p. 2 Remembering Trustee Morgan Dubiel p. 3 Seasonal Leaf/Snow Removal Information p. 4 Business Section p. 6 Community Events p. 11

Niles Family Services Honors Recovery Month

The Leaning Tower of Niles was lit up purple in honor of "Recovery Month" throughout September. Learn more about this important initative on page 10.

A Message from Mayor George D. Alpogianis

Fall is one of the most beautiful times of the year in Niles. The changing colors, cooler days, and longer nights remind us that the holiday season is just around the corner. With it comes many wonderful Village events that bring our community together and give us the chance to celebrate what makes Niles so special.

I’ve often said that Niles is more than just a place where we live—it is our HOME, and with that comes a responsibility to one another. In a world that can sometimes feel divided, I encourage you to look around and see how fortunate we are. We have vibrant neighborhoods, dedicated public services, and most importantly, neighbors who care for one another.

Of course, there will always be a few voices of negativity—there always are. I ask you not to let the naysayers bring you down. Instead remember the good in our lives and community. Remember the friendships, the shared laughter at our events, the helping hands when someone is in need. That is what truly defines us.

This season, I encourage you to get involved. Lend a hand. Volunteer. Share your table, or extend your circle of friends and family to include someone new. These small acts of kindness and generosity are what make Niles stronger, together.

Together, we are more than just a Village—we are a community that thrives when we support one another. I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events and wish you all a joyful fall and holiday season.

With gratitude, Mayor George D. Alpogianis and the Board of Trustees Village of Niles

VNILES.COM

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847.588.8000

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From the Village Clerk’s Office Village Clerk Denise M. McCreery | (847) 588-8003

Early Voting Information Early Voting for the 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election will take place at Niles Village Hall from March 2 through March 16. Voters are encouraged to take advantage of this convenient opportunity to cast their ballot ahead of Election Day. For additional election details, including voter registration information, please visit www.vniles.com or call Denise McCreery, Village Clerk at (847) 588-8003.

Important Dates: •

Monday, December 15: Last day for filing petitions for referenda for the submission of questions of public policy with the local election authority.

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Wednesday, December 17: First day for to apply for a ballot by mail (ballots will not begin to be mailed until

after February 5).

Remembering Trustee Morgan Dubiel The Village of Niles is deeply saddened to share the passing of Trustee Morgan Dubiel. Trustee Dubiel was not only a dedicated public servant but also a devoted family man, a small business owner, and community leader who called Niles home for more than 25 years.

Trustee Dubiel devoted much of his life to service in Niles. He was a founding member of the Niles Crime Stoppers, where he worked to keep our community safe, and he served for over 12 years on the Niles-Maine District Library Board.

During his time as Library President, the institution expanded into the beautiful facility we know today, won two government transparency awards, achieved a million-dollar tax cut, and eliminated all Library debt. His leadership left a lasting mark on one of the Village’s most treasured resources.

Additionally, Trustee Dubiel gave 13 years of service to the Niles Planning and Zoning Board, offering thoughtful development and planning for the future of our Village. He was later elected as a Village Trustee, where he also served as Finance Committee Chair, always advocating for transparency, fiscal responsibility, and the protection of taxpayer dollars.

While Trustee Dubiel’s record of service was extensive, his greatest pride was his family. He met his wife Leslie at the University of Illinois and they married in 1995. They moved to Niles where together they raised two sons, Logan and Caleb, and their daughter, Arden. He was a man of faith, active in his church community and served as Stake President for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Mayor Alpogianis stated, “Trustee Dubiel will be remembered for his integrity, kindness, and his deep devotion for his family and Niles. His absence will be felt throughout our community.”

Morgan Dubiel 1967–2025

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Public Works Department 6849 W. Touhy Avenue | (847) 588-7900

Fall Leaf Collection Program

The Village of Niles Public Works Department will provide free in-street leaf pickup from October 1 through November 26. Collection will follow the published zone schedule: Zone Leaf Pickup Day 1

Monday

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Friday

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Thursday

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Wednesday

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Tuesday

Dates Oct 6, 13, 20, 27 Nov 3, 10, 17, 24 Oct 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Nov 7, 14, 21, 26* Oct 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Nov 6, 13, 20, 25* Oct 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Nov 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct 7, 14, 21, 28 Nov 4, 12*, 18, 25

Note: Dates marked with an asterisk (*) differ from the zone’s typical day of the week due to a holiday.

Following these guidelines helps crews keep operations efficient and prevents clogged storm sewers that can lead to flooding.

Preparing for Winter Weather

As fall continues, Niles Public Works is already preparing for snow and ice season. Months of planning, equipment checks, and material stockpiling go into ensuring that the Village is ready for winter conditions.

Snow removal operations follow a priority system: 1. Major roads are cleared first to allow for emergency response and commuter traffic.

2. Side streets are plowed next.

3. Cul-de-sacs, dead ends, alleys, and parking spaces are cleared last.

Resident responsibilities during snow events: • Place garbage and recycling carts on the house side of the curb or driveway apron, not in the street.

• Shovel snow to the right side of your driveway (as you face the street) to reduce the amount pushed back by plows.

• Do not shovel or blow snow into the street or alley. This creates safety hazards and is prohibited by ordinance.

• Parking is prohibited on streets with posted snow route signs until plowing operations are complete. This allows plows to clear the roadway safely and efficiently.

Information about snow and ice operations is available in multiple languages at www.vniles.com/snow.

Golf Road Sidewalk & Streetlight Project

Key reminders for residents: • Collection days follow a zone schedule. Dates marked with an asterisk (*) are adjusted due to holidays.

• Dumping Restrictions: It is against Village Code to place leaves in the street outside of scheduled pickup dates. Doing so creates hazards for vehicles, pedestrians, and storm sewers.

• Landscape services/commercial landscaping companies must remove leaves they collect and may not dump them in the street.

• Grass clippings are not allowed in leaf piles. They should be mulched into the lawn or placed in yard waste bags/ containers (see "Additional yard waste options" below).

• Program End Date: In-street collection ends after November 26, with no exceptions, as crews transition to winter preparation.

Additional yard waste options: • Groot Bagged Collection: Yard waste bags or containers must have a Groot sticker. Stickers are available at JewelOsco stores, the Niles Senior Center, and Village Hall.

• Branches and Yard Waste: Branch pickup continues through November. Branches must be properly bundled for collection.

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The Village of Niles is working closely with local businesses and IDOT to expand sidewalk access and add new lighting, creating a safer, more welcoming environment for pedestrians.

Beyond improving safety, this project will help strengthen the neighborhood by encouraging more foot traffic and making it easier for residents and visitors to enjoy and support the businesses along Golf Road.

Construction on the sidewalks is expected to be completed around Thanksgiving, with installation of the new streetlights planned for December–January, weather permitting.

Milwaukee Avenue Water Main Lining

A new improvement to increase the quality of water service is tentatively scheduled to begin on Monday October 13, 2025, and run through the end of December 2025. The work is comprised of lining the existing water service main located on the west side of Milwaukee Avenue. This work will warrant a lane closure of eastbound Milwaukee Avenue from Mulford Street to Harlem Avenue, reducing eastbound traffic to a single lane. Traffic patterns and turn movements will be detoured away from westbound Howard Street. These closures and detours are necessary to provide safe traffic movement and work zone protection.

Please keep in mind that projected schedules may vary due to weather and other unforeseen issues. Watch for signage and further information on lane closures and turning movement restrictions in the upcoming weeks and be aware of changes as the project progresses.

4th of July Parade Sponsors

Thank you to our generous local sponsors!

Niles Historical Society

Presidential Leader ($2,500) Papagalino Bakery

nileshistoricalandculturalcenter.org

Statesman ($1,000) RNDC JohnsByrne Company Block Electric Company, Inc Tony's Fresh Market Reyes Coca-Cola CityLine Bible Church Eco Tech Pest Control Kappys American Grill & The George D. Alpogianis Family Minuteman ($500) 7400 Waukegan Road Partnership Bee Sales Co. Erich's Lehigh Auto Body Groot Industries Niles VFW Post 3579 SPC Diamond Design & Engraving King Spa & Sauna Sportclips Haircuts of Niles BBQ Korean Niles Patriot ($250) Edward Jones – Jeff Cardella Meinke's Garden Center Miraj Layalena Banquets Niles Discount Cleaners Scientific Home Services St. John Brebeuf Parish Burrito House Tom Thumb Hobby & Crafts Tokyo Lunch Box RM Autism Therapy Komar Screw Corp Yacko's in Niles O'Brill Company Jeron Electronic Systems, Inc Care for Soul, Inc 911 Plumbing Co Inc Cardinal Warehouse Wine and Liquors Shure Joe Donut Rebel ($225 or less) Booby's Vidal & Associates, Ltd ACA Ming Massage Sariling Atin Lincoln Towing Service Serenity Home Health Care Rosel School of Cosmetology Lone Tree Manor Vintage Staffing Inc Ampler Tacos DBA TacoBell Hae Wa Dall, Inc Niles Truck Rental Lands' End

Cultural Center & Museum Events and Exhibits Oktoberfest Celebration

Saturday, October 18, 2025, 4 P.M. Join us for an Oktoberfest Celebration with Mike Haas, Educator & Historian from the DANK Haas German American Cultural Center for a presentation on German Chicago and Oktoberfest, the world's largest folk festival.

The celebration will include appetizers & beverages. RSVP by October 11, 2025 by email at bk@vniles.com or on our website www.nileshistoricalandculturalcenter.org.

Space is limited.

Community Care Offsite Exhibit at Niles Senior Center (beginning September 25, 2025) Stop by the Niles Senior Center (999 Civic Center Drive) to see our new exhibit: Community Care: A look back at Niles Drug Stores.

Veterans Day Offsite Exhibit at Niles-Maine District Library (beginning November 7, 2025) Stop by the Niles-Maine District Library (6960 W. Oakton Street) to see our annual Veterans Day Exhibit.

Visit the Niles Historical Society We hope everyone will come for a visit at the Niles Historical Society. We are open to the public 11 A.M.–3 P.M. on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. New exhibits include: • Our Building, Our History • St. Hedwig's Orphanage • Pageants, Scholarships & Niles Celebrations • Growing Up in Niles (Toys from the 1900s to 1990s) • Early Niles: Farming, Transportation, and Early Settlers

Niles Historical Society

8970 N. Milwaukee Avenue (847) 390-0160 nhs@vniles.com

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Business Section

Economic Development and New Business Updates

Economic Development Coordinator

The Community Development Department welcomes our new Economic Development Coordinator, Megan Bunimovich.

Megan will be focusing on business growth and retention throughout the Village. By building relationships with business owners and decision makers, she hopes to be a point of contact and resource for all businesses in Niles. Megan is the founder of the Greater Ravenswood Village of Niles Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development former Executive Director of the Coordinator Megan Ravenswood Community Council. Bunimovich.

Prior to community development, Megan worked as a TIF compliance and workforce development consultant for large projects in the City of Chicago. Megan can’t wait to bring her expertise to Niles. Business owners looking to establish businesses, move their operations to Niles, or to expand their current operations are encouraged to reach out to Megan via email at mnb@vniles.com or by calling the Community Development Department at (847) 588-8040.

Nea Maya Apartment Development

Nea Maya Real Estate & Development has completed the foundation work, framing, and exterior construction on their mixed-use development at 9201 N. Milwaukee. The $20-million, five-story development features ground floor retail space and 48 luxury apartment units above. The ground floor commercial space is approximately 4,555 sf, split into three retail spaces.

Kouklas Restaurant

The former Amici’s Restaurant at 7620 N. Milwaukee Avenue was purchased by Bannos Jr. Real Estate in May of 2024. They completed an extensive interior demolition and renovation as well as exterior upgrades. The dining room features seating for 150 people, a bar room for 18 guests, and an all season patio space for 100. Kouklas Restaurant installed their new monument signage and intends to open in November. Kouklas is a Greek-inspired restaurant that will feature James Beard Award winning chef Jimmy Bannos Jr.

Grind N Gears

This local, independent coffee shop at 8030 Oakton opened in February. Part coffee shop and part store, they also sell light bakery fair, vintage motorcycle apparel, t-shirts, and locally roasted beans to brew at home. Niles residents and

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owners Joel and Dan Peters have been partnering with local businesses and have hosted car and motorcycle shows and outdoor events in the parking lot. Residents are enjoying having a place they can walk to to get coffee, work, or visit.

This is an example of the adaptive reuse of a vacant building under the Comprehensive Plan.

Haraz Coffee and Addah Café

Haraz Coffee and Addah Café at 7007 Dempster is located in the former Chase Bank space and serves 100% organic Yemeni coffee that is sun-dried and pesticide free. This business also offers tea and specialty drinks as well as traditional Middle Eastern pastries and street food which are available for dine in or carry out. In addition, the coffee house has two small conference rooms available with multi-media capabilities for use to conduct small business meetings.

Chicken Ati Atihan

The new restaurant at 7649 N. Milwaukee opened earlier this year after extensive remodel of the former Schmeisser's location, another adaptive reuse of a vacant building. Chicken Ati Atihan serves authentic Filipino cuisine such as Chicken Inasal which is marinated for 36 hours and Halo Halo, a traditional sweet treat. The restaurant was featured on ABC 7’s "The Hungry Hound" segment. In addition to delicious food, the location offers a fun and inviting atmosphere by hosting live bands on Saturday evenings.

White Eagle Redevelopment

Noah Properties, the company responsible for Novú Luxury Apartments, has submitted plans for redevelopment of the White Eagle Property and the adjacent office building at 6777 Milwaukee Ave. The proposed redevelopment would include construction of 330 luxury apartment units, 24 luxury townhomes, as well as a 6000 square foot restaurant space with a plaza for outside eating, a 17,000 square foot green open space, and ancillary building amenities and parking.

Kingsways Kourt

The new pickleball court and event space at 7030 N. Milwaukee Ave. opened this summer. This project is an adaptive reuse of a formerly outdated industrial building. The new space features 5 climate-controlled indoor pickleball courts with professional grade LVT playing surfaces, lounge space for spectators, and an adjacent event space which is available for rent.

Beary Sweet Ice Cream Shop

The new ice cream and sweet shop at 8045 N Milwaukee opened this past summer. The shop features premium ice cream and candy toppings with a weekly menu of rotating

flavors. The ice cream cones are works of art crafted into everyone’s favorite animals using ice cream and cookie and candy toppings.

85° C Bakery Café

This summer, Village trustees and Community Development staff participated in the ribbon cutting at the new coffee shop and bakery located at 850 Civic Center Drive. 85° C is a bakery and coffee shop with unique breads, danishes, strudels, sweet and savory baked goods, and cakes. In addition to desserts, patrons can enjoy Asian infused coffee, tea, and sandwiches either in the comfortable and inviting dining space or they can take their items to go.

Novú Luxury Apartment Building

Noah Properties completed their $52-million, 180-unit luxury apartment project on the former Hesco Janitorial Supplies site at 6633 N. Milwaukee Avenue. The luxury apartment project features a swimming pool, public art, rooftop garden, dog wash, and event space. Other amenities include stainless steel appliances, in-unit washers and dryers, private balconies for most units, grilling stations, and a walking path around the detention pond in the rear of the building. The property is adjacent to the Cook County Forest Preserve and the North Branch of the Chicago River.

Below: Photos of 6633 N. Milwaukee Avenue Novú apartments and outdoor pool.

Community Development Department 1000 Civic Center Drive | (847) 588-8040

Grow Your Home

The Village of Niles now offers three different homeowner incentives under this program. Residents can receive permit fee assistance with home expansions, covered front porch construction, or front elevation improvements (one project per address). If you’re interested in taking advantage of one of these opportunities, please visit our website at www. vniles.com/ home-expansion or visit us at Village Hall (1000 Civic Center Drive) for more information on the application process and eligibility requirements.

Rental Licenses & Inspections

All rental properties are required to renew their licenses annually. Letters are mailed from the village to all property owners mid-September. Please be aware that each property is required to undergo an inspection once every three years.

Keep an eye on your mailbox for a letter regarding your scheduled inspection. To view what an inspector checks on rental inspections, please visit the following page on the Village’s website: https://vniles.com/DocumentCenter/ View/15002/Rental-Checklist.

If you have any questions, please contact the Village’s Community Development Department at (847) 588-8040.

Building & Zoning Inquiries

Do not forget to apply for your building permits. Call (847) 588-8040 to check whether your projects require a permit before beginning any work. Some of the typical items that require permits include, but are not limited to: • Mechanical, electrical, plumbing and sewer work; • Sheds, fences and concrete work; • Windows and roofs (new and reroofing); • Hot water heaters; • Kitchen, bath and basement remodeling.

Rodent Control/Garbage Can

Please support the efforts of the community by making sure you are regularly picking up dog waste, not feeding animals, garbage is kept in a sealed container free of holes, and any rat activity is reported to the Village. Please also be aware that some common fall decorations such as corn stalks, hay bales, and pumpkins can be attractive to rats. To obtain a replacement garbage can or lid, please call Groot at (800) 244-1977.

To report rat activity, please visit www.vniles.com/1370/ Rodent-Control.

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Niles Police Department 7000 W. Touhy Avenue | (847) 588-6500

Animal Control Corner

During ongoing efforts to control the local rat population, Niles Animal Control and Community Development have encountered a rise in chickens and other fowl being kept by residents. Please remember that keeping fowl—such as chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys—is prohibited in the Village of Niles under Section 14-42 of the Municipal Code, which has been in effect since 2006.

Because these animals are typically housed outdoors, they can cause several issues in residential neighborhoods, including: • Noise and odor issues; • Health and disease risks; • Attraction of vermin, contributing to unsanitary conditions.

If you or someone you know in Niles is currently keeping fowl, it is strongly recommended to find a new home for the animals outside of Niles or work with a local rescue to avoid potential citations. Chicago Roo Crew and Chicago Chicken Rescue are two excellent resources in the area for rehoming chickens or other fowl.

If you have any questions or are in need of assistance rehoming chickens or other prohibited animal species, please contact Niles Animal Control Officer Allison Cole at (847) 588-6508.

National Night Out 2025

On August 5th, the Niles Police Department was proud to participate in National Night Out, along with law enforcement agencies nationwide. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this event and all of the local businesses and community organizations whose support and participation made it possible. Activities at this year’s event included a dunk tank, bounce house, K9 Demo, and booths featuring over 15 local businesses and community organizations. The NPD also raffled off exciting prizes, including gift baskets and gift cards donated by local businesses and a brand-new bicycle!

The NPD is looking forward to continuing to participate in National Night Out in the years to come!

Back to School Safety

As students return to school across the Village of Niles this month, the Niles Police Department wants to remind all residents to prioritize safety this school year: • Slow Down in School Zones: Obey posted speed limits and be alert for crossing guards and children crossing the street; • Watch for School Buses: State law requires drivers to stop when a school bus has its stop sign extended and red lights flashing. Never attempt to pass a stopped school bus; • No Texting While Driving: Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents near schools. Keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel; • Be Patient: Traffic increases during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up times. Allow extra time and stay calm.

Halloween Safety Tips

With Halloween right around the corner, keep these tips in mind to keep yourself and others safe: Recommended Trick-or-Treating Hours: • October 31, 3:00 PM–8:00 PM Safety Tips: • Always accompany young children when Trick-orTreating; • Remember to look both ways when crossing the street; • Stay on the sidewalk and use crosswalks to cross the street; • Motorists: Slow down and be on the lookout for Trick-orTreaters!

• Consider adding reflective tape or carry a flashlight or glowstick to stay visible.

Follow Us on social media: • Facebook: @NilesPDIL • Instagram: @nilespolice • Website: www.vniles.com/police

Above left: K9 demonstration with handler Investigator Bloomberg and K9 Frank. Above right: Winner of 2025 National Night Out bike raffle, pictured with Sergeant Brines, Chief Romano, Deputy Chief Boba, and Deputy Chief Fragassi.

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Niles Fire Department

Station #2 8360 W. Dempster Street | (847) 588-6800

Fire Prevention Week

Fire Prevention Week is observed each year during the week of October 9th in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire, which began on October 8, 1871, and caused devastating damage. Fire safety education isn’t just for school children— people of all ages are at risk during fires, making it important for every member of the community to take some time every October during Fire Prevention Week to make sure they understand how to stay safe in the event of a fire.

The theme of this year’s National Fire Protection Association Fire Prevention Week is “Charge into Fire Safety” and relates specifically to Lithium-Ion Batteries in the home. The NFPA recommends buying Lithium-Ion Batteries containing a safety certification, such as a UL marking, which means they meet certain safety standards. The NFPA also recommends charging Lithium-Ion Batteries with manufacturer-approved cords and chargers and asks that batteries be unplugged once fully charged. Lastly, the NFPA asks that Lithium-Ion Batteries be disposed of properly, which means they should not be disposed of in regular trash or recycling bins. Please dispose of unwanted batteries at approved safe battery recycling centers or at Niles Public Works electronic recycling events.

For more information on locating a safe battery recycling center please visit call2recycle.org.

fires occur in December, January, and February. Please ensure you keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from all fireplaces, furnaces, space-heaters, or radiators.

Furthermore, please make certain you have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms inside your home and that you test them monthly. Consider choosing holiday decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant and replace any holiday lights containing broken or frayed cords. Lastly, please keep Christmas trees away from heat sources including fireplaces, radiators, candles, and heat vents and keep tree bases filled with water in order to prevent trees from drying out.

Fire Hydrants

Snow and winter weather can obstruct fire hydrants making them difficult for the NFD to access. You can help us reduce that risk by clearing a three-to-five-foot area around fire hydrants on your street, block, or near your home. Doing so helps Niles firefighters quickly identify and access fire hydrants in the event of a fire. While we encourage and appreciate all those willing to help us with this initiative, please do so only if you’re physically able to. Please send us a picture of any fire hydrants cleared of snow so that we are able to share the photos on our social media platforms.

"Be Alarmed" Smoke Alarm Installation Program Thanksgiving Fire Safety Tip

According to the National Fire Protection Association, Thanksgiving is the leading day of the calendar year for home fires involving cooking equipment. While preparing your Thanksgiving meal, please remain in the kitchen while cooking anything on the stovetop. Keep any young children at least three feet away from the stove in order to try and prevent any burns, spills, or other mishaps.

Winter/Holiday Fire Safety Tips

According to the United States Fire Administration and the National Fire Protection Association, half of all home heating

Are you a Niles resident in need of working smoke alarms in your home? The NFD will install ten-year sealed battery smoke alarms in Niles residents’ homes free of charge in accordance with the “Be Alarmed Smoke Alarm Installation Program.” The smoke alarms are installed by NFD firefighters who also provide a variety of home fire safety information and resources. Some of the goals of this program are to educate residents on fire prevention methods, eliminate fire related injuries and deaths, and increase the number of working smoke alarms in the home. To learn more about this program, and to see if you qualify, please contact us at (847) 588-6800 or email us at ess@vniles.com.

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Human Services Departments Niles Family Services

999 Civic Center Drive | 847.588.8460 Upcoming Initiatives As the weather shifts us to the upcoming fall season, the Niles Family Services Department is looking forward to opportunities to serve the community and highlight the services being offered to community residents.

September celebrates National Recovery Month. Recovery month is designed to increase awareness and understanding of mental health and substance use disorders and to recognize the courageous work of those confronting addiction and choosing to live a life of recovery.

During the entire month of September, the Leaning Tower was cast in purple to symbolize support, awareness and hope (see cover photo).

In October, Family Services will be participating in the Niles Park District’s Harvest Hustle 5K. Well Now Urgent Care has agreed to sponsor Nelson Elementary School 4th-6th graders from the Nelson Running Club to participate in the event. The run starts at Notre Dame High School in Niles on Saturday, October 11 at 8 A.M. Family Services receives food/cash donations from this event. The department is grateful for partnerships that help support our Niles residents.

Thank you to the Park District, Well Now Urgent Care, and Nelson School!

On Saturday, November 1, Family Services will be celebrating Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). This Mexican celebration is designed to honor the memories of loved ones who have passed. It is designed to find joy in their life rather than focus on the grief of their death. The holiday is deeply rooted in Mexican culture and will include festive decorations and traditional foods. All Niles residents are welcome to join the celebration.

Family Services continues to offer specialty groups and services for adults and seniors including: • Suicide Bereavement group for ages 21 and up; • Grief and Loss of an adult child, widow and widower support, and loss of a friend groups for seniors; • Relaxation, Meditation and Mindfulness for seniors; • Wits Brain Health Workout for seniors 55 and up; • Elder Wisdom Circle for seniors; • Individualized Wellness Assessment for seniors ages 55 and up; • CBT-I for chronic insomnia treatment ages 21 and up.

For more information on events and/or to access services, please call Niles Family Services at (847) 588-8460.

Niles Senior Center

999 Civic Center Drive | 847.588.8420 Medicare Open Enrollment Have you compared your options? You might find a plan that saves you money. Now is the time to compare your current coverage to all your choices for 2026 and select the plan that best meets your needs and budget. Medicare’s Open Enrollment period is October 15–December 7 and gives everyone with Medicare the opportunity to make changes to their prescription drug plans or health plans for coverage beginning January 1, 2026. Just like your health, Medicare plans can change every year—and your current coverage might be changing. Plus, not all plans have the same benefits and out-of-pocket costs. By comparing all of your options, you could find a plan that offers you better coverage, saves money, or both. For more information, or assistance with reviewing your current plan, please call the Niles Senior Center to schedule an appointment at (847) 588-8420.

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N i l e s C o m m u n i t y N ews a n d E ve n t s Fa l l / Wi n te r 2 0 2 5

Halloween Home Decorating Contest

We're inviting Niles residents to participate in our Halloween Home Decorating Contest!

Think your Halloween decorations are the best on the block? Whether your style is spooky, silly, creepy, or classic, now’s your chance to show off your haunting creativity and compete for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes!

• Thursday, October 16 at 8:00 PM – Nomination Deadline (Online Applications Only); • Friday, October 17 at 3:00 PM – Online and print map available to view all participating homes; • Monday, October 20 at 7:00 PM through Thursday, October 23 at 7:00 PM – Voting Period: Voting link will be through a secured system (voting will NOT be on Facebook this year); • Friday, October 24 at 3:00 PM – Winners announced on Village website and Facebook page.

Townhall Meeting

Join us on Monday, October 20 from 6–7 P.M. for a Town Hall Meeting with Mayor Alpogianis. The meeting will take place at the Niles Senior Center (999 Civic Center Drive) in room 127. The meeting will offer an opportunity to discuss updates about the Village and get your questions answered.

Registration is not required.

Nominations will be accepted from November 24 until Monday, December 15, 2025 by 5 P.M. For details and application visit vniles.com/twinkle.

Home for the Holidays Raffle

Shopping locally plays a vital role in strengthening our community. To encourage residents to support Niles businesses during the holiday season, the Village is once again hosting the Home for the Holidays Raffle.

Participation is free—simply submit your receipts at Village Hall from any Niles business. For every $50 spent, you will receive one entry into the raffle. The drawing will take place during the Village Board Meeting on January 28, 2026. Five winners will each receive a $100 gift card to a Niles business of their choice.

Your support makes a difference. Shop local, and let us thank you this holiday season!

Veteran Banner Program

The Village of Niles is proud to recognize and celebrate all veterans and active-duty service members in our community.

Our Veteran Banner Program continues to grow, with banners proudly displayed throughout the streets of Niles.

New applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

We’ve also recently updated our website to include brief biographies of participating veterans, sharing their stories and service. Visit our website at www.vniles.com to apply or to learn more about the heroes honored through this meaningful program.

Holly Jolly – Saturday, November 29 Join us for a festive celebration on Saturday, November 29, 2025 from 2–8 P.M. Enjoy delicious food, live music, s’mores, family-friendly activities, a horse-drawn trolley, fireworks, and the magical tree lighting ceremony at 5:30 P.M.!

More details coming soon at vniles.com/hollyjolly.

Twinkle & Lights Decorating Contest

Do you enjoy decorating your home for the holidays?

Nominate your home for the 9th annual Twinkle & Lights Holiday Decorating Contest! Participation is free, and all entries will be considered by a panel of judges. Winners will receive a gift card to a Niles business of their choice, along with a decorative yard sign to recognize their festive display.

We look forward to seeing your creativity light up the community this holiday season.

Niles Park District Upcoming Events

For questions and to register for events, call the Howard Leisure Center at (847) 967-6633.

Trunk or Treat

Saturday, October 18, 10–11:30 A.M. Oasis Fun Center Ages 2 & up. Fee involved.

Boo Bash

Friday, October 24, 6–8 P.M. Howard Leisure Center Families, ages 2 & up. Fee involved.

Halloween Parade & Party

Saturday, October 25, 9 A.M. Ages 1–12. Parade route from Oak Park to Grennan Heights followed by party at Grennan Heights.

Fee involved for party at Grennan Heights.

IceLand Scary Skate

Saturday, October 25, 12:30–1:45 P.M. IceLand For kids & families. Fee involved.

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Village of Niles 1000 Civic Center Drive Niles, Illinois 60714

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage Paid Permit No. 111 Morton Grove, IL POSTAL CUSTOMER

VILLAGE OF NILES ACTING VILLAGE MANAGER Katie Schneider

MAYOR George D. Alpogianis

VILLAGE CLERK Denise M. McCreery

TRUSTEES Susan J. DeBartolo, Ajay R. Mody, Craig Niedermaier, Dean Strzelecki, Marryann Warda

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