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August 18, 2026

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Mayor Ann Tennes and Trustee Keith Robinson with new members of the Village’s Youth Commission, who were appointed at Monday’s Board meeting.

On Monday, the Village Board welcomed 23 inaugural members of the Village’s new Youth Commission, which will elevate the voices of young people, foster civic engagement and strengthen connections between youth, Village government and the broader community.

Congratulations to: Akhila Arjula, Qintara Arshad, Adam Carkovic, Henry Cegur, Sofia Chavez, Vivienne Howard-Check, Ian Forte, Valyn Franks, Ayman Karamali, Aliza Khan, Joelle Kim, Zachary Kupietzky, Sophie Levin, Muhammadumar Munshi, Amelia Nameche, Nathan Oler, Ava Parker, Nathan Ponce Oluga, Matthew Parocha, Carson Peng, Isabella Perry, Lila Rootberg and Elaine Pedroza. Together, the members represent six high schools serving Skokie youth.

Bigger picture: The Youth Commission grew out of the Village’s 2026–2029 Strategic Plan process, which identified Engaged Youth as a targeted outcome. 

At its meeting on August 17, the Village Board:

Watch the recording of the meeting for a discussion of these items and more.  

Artist Louise Jones (Ouizi) has completed her colorful new mural at the northeast corner of Church Street and Crawford Avenue! Jones' artwork can be found on walls and canvases around the world — and now, right here in Skokie.

Supporting public art: The mural was commissioned by the Village's Public Arts Advisory Committee, which works to bring art to walls, plazas and public spaces throughout the community.

Ever tried Georgian cuisine? NBC Chicago’s “Food Guy” Kevin Pang recently visited Skokie’s own Metekhi, located at 3341 Dempster St.!

On the menu: Metekhi’s menu showcases Georgian cuisine influenced by flavors from Greece and the Mediterranean, as well as Turkey and Persia. You’ll find comfort food galore, including khinkali (Georgian-style dumplings) and khachapuri (fresh bread stuffed with melted cheese). 

There’s more than shopping happening at Westfield Old Orchard this summer. Check out these free upcoming events.

BACK TO SCHOOL WITH KRAFT, AUGUST 21-22

Kraft Natural Cheese will present a back-to-school event with its mascot, Stringy! On Friday, August 21 and Saturday, August 22, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., enjoy samples, branded interactive photo moments, a personalized lunch box and note writing.

SUMMER OF SOUND: SMASH MOUTH, AUGUST 28

Smash Mouth will perform as part of the free Summer of Sound concert series on Friday, August 28, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Enjoy special beverages available for purchase from Bar Siena and Roka Akor.

Demolition is underway at 4811 Oakton St.

Have you noticed construction activity on Oakton Street just west of Skokie Boulevard and the CTA Yellow Line?

What’s happening: The owner of 4811 Oakton St., located on the south side of the street, is demolishing the existing building and preparing the site for potential sale.

What’s coming: The Village has not received a formal proposal for the site. Any future plans will be subject to the Village’s development review process and shared on the Village’s Building Better Skokie site. Stay tuned for updates.

Skokie Police and Fire maintain a state of readiness for tornadoes, severe weather and other emergencies. You should be ready, too!

HOW YOU'LL BE ALERTED

When a Tornado Warning is issued for a geographic area that includes any portion of Skokie:

If a Tornado Warning is issued: Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and avoid windows. If you are in a vehicle or outdoors, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.

STAY INFORMED

Sign up for Skokie Smart911 to receive important emergency notifications, including tornado warnings, evacuation orders, boil orders and critical police and fire activity.

It’s peak season at the Skokie Farmers’ Market! That means you’ll find plenty of farm-fresh peaches, peppers and produce of all varieties to stock your kitchen this Sunday.

This Sunday will also feature the season’s third Makers’ Market, with 15 artisanal vendors selling handcrafted items in the Village Green, as well as a non-perishable food drive sponsored by the Village’s Commission on Family Services. Donations will support the Niles Township Food Pantry.

Subscribe to the Skokie Farmers’ Market eNewsletter for seasonal weekly updates.

The Village's STAT Commission will present a free seminar to help you avoid falling victim to online scams. Register to attend on Saturday, August 22 at 3 p.m., at Skokie Public Library.

What to expect: You’ll learn about the most common tactics criminals use—from phishing links and fake websites to romance scams, deepfake impersonations and high‑pressure “urgent” fraud attempts. You’ll walk away with concrete, practical steps to protect yourself and respond quickly if you fall victim.

The CTA Yellow Line will not operate this Saturday, August 22 between the hours of 6 a.m. and 1 p.m. due to an internal skills competition and employee event. A shuttle bus will replace rail service and operate every 15 minutes in both directions between Dempster and Howard, stopping near the Oakton station.

EVENTS

PUBLIC MEETINGS

Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held at Skokie Village Hall, 5127 Oakton St.