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• Family gets $50 million in lawsuit against Evanston hospital after jury finds baby's brain damage was preventable

  A Cook County Circuit Court jury granted a Michigan family $50 million on Tuesday, agreeing that the severe brain damage suffered by the family’s oldest son was a result of negligence and bad decisions by a doctor and attending nurse who delivered him at NorthShore Evanston Hospital in 2009. “The...
• Preservationists have raised $220,000 to save Evanston's Harley Clarke Mansion

  Proponents of demolishing Evanston’s lakefront Harley Clarke Mansion were a no-show at a public forum to discuss the issue Wednesday, while preservationists announced that they’d garnered $220,000 in donations and pledges to save the aging building. “There’s huge opportunity in this building. It’s...
• Column: Our current national discourse is built on the lies we tell ourselves

  While watching and listening to the Brett Kavanaugh hearings and all the debates surrounding them for the last few weeks, I couldn’t help but think of something called “the life-lie.” It is an idea explored in one of the greatest plays of world literature, Henrik Ibsen’s “The Wild Duck.” In the...
• Shout Out: Damon Reed, artist behind the new mural at Evanston's Gibbs-Morrison Cultural Center

  Damon Reed, 40, of the Woodlawn neighborhood in Chicago, is the artist behind the new mural on Evanston’s Gibbs-Morrison Cultural Center. Q: How did you get involved with the Evanston mural at Gibbs-Morrison Cultural Center? A: Chicago Public Art Group, an organization I have worked with for the...

• Column: 'A Star Is Born' brings attention to a hideous, heartbreaking disease

  When it comes to Lady Gaga, I’d say I’ve been lukewarm in the past. Although she’s extremely talented, there was something about her unconventional demeanor that just didn’t connect with me. Until last weekend. I went to see “A Star Is Born.” Now, I adore her. “A Star Is Born,” which co-stars Bradley...

• Worker killed, another injured in crane accident at Evanston construction site

  One worker was killed and another was injured after a load of steel beams fell from a crane Tuesday morning at a construction site in Evanston, authorities said. Shorty before 8:30 a.m., Evanston firefighters responded to the construction site at 811 Emerson St., where they found a 27-year-old...

• Evanston seeks year-round public access to Lincoln Street beach near Northwestern campus

  In an unexpected twist, the state of Illinois has emerged as the owner of Lincoln Street beach, once the private lakefront domain of Northwestern University that opened to Evanston residents this year. “Lincoln Street beach is not the property of Northwestern University. I cannot tell you whose...

• Evanston aldermen deny public tours of Harley Clarke Mansion, but will let Preservation Commission in before vote

  Evanston aldermen on Monday unanimously approved a request from the city’s Preservation Commission to tour the aging Harley Clarke Mansion before the commission considers later this month whether it’s appropriate to tear down the historic lakefront building. But aldermen denied, on a 5-4 vote,...

• Evanston man facing charges of aggravated robbery: Police

  The following items were taken from Evanston Police Department reports and releases. An arrest does not constitute a finding of guilt. Trespass Ryan O. Bailey, 35, and homeless, was charged with trespass following an incident Oct. 4 in the 1700 block of Orrington Avenue on October 4. Bailey is...

• Proposed Evanston library budget includes 2 percent tax increase, money for new Robert Crown branch

  Evanston Public Library officials are proposing a $10 million budget for 2019, which includes the elimination of two vacant positions, a reduction in the consulting budget and $1.2 million for the new branch to be built next year at the Robert Crown Center. “Two elements that are influencing the...

• 5 police officers, 9 firefighters among proposed cuts to close expected $7.4M deficit: Evanston officials

  Evanston city officials have proposed cutting nearly 40 jobs — including five police officers and nine firefighters — slashing the public health department budget, closing one recreation center, and closing and selling a fire station in order to deal with a $7.4 million deficit expected in the...

• 'The Last Goodbye' at Holocaust Museum offers survivor's virtual tour of concentration camp

  The Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center is premiering a film where Holocaust survivor Pinchas Gutter takes viewers on an emotional tour through the Majdanek Nazi concentration camp in Poland, where he was held captive and where his parents and twin sister died. The award-winning virtual...

• Police in north suburbs bordering Chicago 'keeping close eye' on reaction to Van Dyke verdict

  As Chicago police prepare for public reaction to the verdict in the Officer Jason Van Dyke murder trial, law enforcement departments in north suburban border towns are also on alert – just in case. The Evanston Police Department is “prepared for potential protest,” said Commander Ryan Glew. He...

• 'Research all options' before demolishing Harley Clarke Mansion, Evanston state reps say

  With preservation group supporters successfully getting an advisory referendum on the Nov. 6 ballot about the fate of the Harley Clarke Mansion, and a citizens group’s deadline approaching to make payment on its plans to pay for the the building to be demolished, state representatives have reached...

• Column: Major League Baseball is due for a new playoff system

  One of my more recent columns focused on how to fix baseball. I argued that it was time to add two new teams to the Major Leagues to give it a more balanced 32 teams instead of 30. I then suggested those 32 teams be divided into four eight-team divisions by geography in order to create new rivalries...

• Column: What to do when recall work doesn't repair your car

  I am taking care of my son-in-law's 2009 Ford Escape while he is in the service. The steering has been erratic. I called Ford and they said the steering was already fixed on a recall. At first, the steering was rocking. Now, the power steering does not work. My wife uses the vehicle to drive our...

• Stoneman Douglas students, anti-violence youth activists take stage at Democratic Party forum in Evanston

  Six months after Evanston high school students walked out of class to protest gun violence, the rally continued Wednesday as kids from Evanston, Chicago and Parkland, Florida joined together for a forum talking about what high schoolers could do to curb shootings in the United States. About 200...

• Column: Who doesn’t want to be healthier and happier?

  I feel like most people enjoy and appreciate tips on how to be healthier and happier. That includes me. So, when I stumbled upon a new NBC show called “Health + Happiness With Mayo Clinic,” I was intrigued. The name alone made me want to watch it. What’s so funny is, I watched an episode, and it...

• 7 facing drug charges in separate incidents, all arrested over course of 4 days: Evanston police

  The following items were taken from Evanston Police Department reports and releases. An arrest does not constitute a finding of guilt. Domestic battery Corey A. Horton, 24, of the 600 block of Wesley Avenue, was charged with domestic battery following an incident Sept. 27 in the 600 block of Wesley...

• Conservation festival brings 'streets alive' in downtown Evanston

  “Open streets, open community,” was the slogan for Evanston Streets Alive celebration last month, featuring a Green Living Festival. The fest was held along a milelong stretch of Main Street between Chicago Florence Avenues, and was accessible to pedestrian and bicycle traffic without the obstacle...

• Evanston alderman accused of ethics violations, donating to group looking to demolish Harley Clarke Mansion

  The Evanton ethics board is expected to hear in October complaints against an Evanston alderman that accuse her of inappropriately forwarding emails, and cursing at and threatening a resident — among other allegations. In the first complaint, Ald. Ann Rainey, 8th Ward, is accused of wrongfully...

• Shout Out: Dana Olsen, resident big screen aficionado

  Evanston resident Dana Olsen is the screenwriter of “Inspector Gadget,” “The ‘Burbs,” and “George of the Jungle.” Olsen is also a film historian and is sharing his knowledge of that genre with a monthly Sunday Film Festival at Studio5 in Evanston. Q: Why did you want to host a film series at Studio5?A:...

• Homecoming goes gender-neutral: More schools ditching king, queen traditions

  The homecoming court donned bright gold sashes and waved to the crowd at Ross-Ade Stadium at Purdue University. Amid applause, two of those students were crowned “Homecoming Royalty” but no one was named king or queen — a deviation from a long-standing tradition at the Big Ten school. The Sept....

• Evanston library diversity report makes recommendation for service improvements

  Evanston’s 5th Ward needs a new library. That was one of the biggest indications in the “Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Needs Assessment for Evanston Public Library” report that was released Sept. 24. “This document shares perspectives from Evanston community members with the Evanston Public...

• Column: What's in a name? Well, not 'Donuts,' apparently

  When you have an iconic brand name, say Dunkin’ Donuts, it must be very difficult and extremely risky to change the name and rebrand the business. Yet Dunkin’ Donuts is doing exactly that. The iconic doughnut shop plans to change it’s name to just Dunkin’. To explain the change, the company is...

• Column: What’s the real reason for all these free credit scores?

  Free credit scores are everywhere! Why is this? Is some entity making money from this suddenly pervasive online offering? Should consumers be clicking on these links each time they have the opportunity? For answers to these and other questions about credit scores, I spoke with Liz Weston, a certified...

• Oakton college trustees applaud diversity, inclusion efforts and call for more at Skokie campus

  At Oakton Community College, students of color make up about 45 percent of the student body. As a result, staff there are working to make sure the college’s services help attract and retain these students as they work toward their career goals, according to a report presented to trustees Tuesday....

• Column: Melissa Forman talks love, family, her new job and baking it forward

  “Isn’t that Melissa Forman?” someone asked me last week at my daughter’s high school tennis tournament. I looked, and sure enough, there stood the radio and TV personality Chicago’s been watching and listening to for decades. I actually met Melissa a few years ago as a guest on WCIU’s “You & Me,”...

• Chicago man facing charges of battery, tresspassing: Evanston police

  The following items were taken from Evanston Police Department reports and releases. An arrest does not constitute a finding of guilt. Trespass Michael S. Bambouyani, 31, of the 5900 block of West Irving Park Road, Chicago, was charged with trespass following an incident Sept. 20 in the 900 block...

• Evanston/Skokie School District 65 passes budget, gets numbers on student achievement

  Members of the Evanston/Skokie School Dist. 65 Board of Education passed a balanced budget for the 2018-2019 school year Monday, as they expressed concern that a recent study shows the racial achievement gap persists across the district. The almost $130 million budget includes money for about 20...

• Evanston releases draft plan reduce greenhouse gases by 2050

  Phase out single-use plastic containers and utensils from Evanston restaurants and stores. Increase local solar power use. Improve Evanston’s bicycle and pedestrian networks. Those are just some of the ideas proposed in Evanston’s draft Climate Action and Resilience Plan/Carbon Neutral by 2050,...

• Mourners say final goodbyes to Evanston mayor, stalwart Lorraine Morton

  As he looked out at an audience of an estimated 750 mourners, the Rev. Larry Bullock spoke of the lifetime of dedication that former Mayor Lorraine Morton displayed for Evanston. “We are here to witness what happens when you give your life away,” Bullock said during his eulogy for Morton, his cousin....

• Fraternity will return to Northwestern after it was suspended for serving minors, subject of sexual assault allegations

  An embattled fraternity on the Northwestern University campus that was suspended last school year is set to return as the academic year gets underway for the fall semester. The NU chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity will return to campus this fall following a one-year suspension for serving...

• 3 shot during gang-related rifle attack in Evanston

  Three men in their late teens or early 20s were shot Thursday afternoon during a gang-related rifle attack in Evanston near the Chicago border, police said. Officers rushed to the scene after multiple 911 calls reporting people shot at Custer Avenue and Howard Street came in about 3 p.m., said...

• Evanston agrees to buy Oak Park Divvy stations, extend bike-share contract

  Evanston aldermen have voted to buy three Divvy docking stations from Oak Park, extend Evanston’s contract with the bike share company for 36 months and enter into an advertisement revenue-sharing agreement with Chicago to pay for it all. “What we have now is a wonderful opportunity to purchase...

• Man who crashed Corvette into empty Skokie building dies; speed and alcohol a factor, police say

  A 32-year-old Evanston man has died after crashing his Corvette into the side of an empty office building late night Sunday in Skokie, police said. Police said the man, who was the driver, is now identified as Arturo Garcia-Martinez. He was taken to St. Francis Hospital in Evanston following the...

• Man dies after being pulled from Lake Michigan in Evanston: fire officials

  A Skokie man died after he was swimming in Lake Michigan and Evanston firefighters ended up having to rescue him last month, according to fire department officials. Javier Andrade-Martinez, 60, of the 8900 block of La Crosse Avenue in Skokie, died Sept. 22 at Evanston Hospital of “complications...

• Column: Although sometimes mean, online reviews of Airbnb guests often are not defamatory

  This week is a continuation of last week’s Help Squad column, which looked at a complaint from an Airbnb guest, Stefanie, who said she was evicted from an Airbnb host’s filthy apartment in Chicago less than 48 hours after she checked in. Stefanie’s reservation was supposed to be for a month. But...

• Column: With today's politics, it feels like we're living through our own 'Stranger Things'

  Life imitates art. But sometimes, art is a spot-on explanation for our times. Think of what is popular on television. Two very popular and successful shows reflect our deepest longing to be ruled by a strong-willed, competent and benevolent ruler. Those two shows are the Netflix original, “The...

• Shout Out: Karen Hall, teacher of fine arts and director at Maine East

  Karen Hall, a teacher of fine arts and director of countless plays at Maine East High School in Park Ridge, was recently honored as a recipient of the 2018 Award of Honor by the The Board of Directors of the Illinois Theatre Association. Each year, the Illinois Theatre Association “recognizes individuals...

• Shout Out: James Kelly, social justice lawyer who says George Clooney could play him in biopic

  James Kelly, 40, is an Evanston resident and attorney who, in his spare time, volunteers with Cabrini Green Legal Aid in Chicago. Q: How long have you lived in Evanston? A: I have lived in Evanston for the past four years, after growing up in Kansas and living in NYC and London. It took me 36...

• Column: Should this woman go out for a beer with her ex-boyfriend?

  There’s nothing easy about a breakup. In the weeks and months that follow the end of a long-term, serious relationship, feelings of anger, pain, sadness, loneliness, disappointment, regret, and fear of being alone are all normal. Plus, even if you knew the relationship wasn’t working, you miss...

• State attorney general's office gives mixed decision on FOIA complaint against Evanston School District 202

  The Illinois attorney general’s office recenty ruled that officials at Evanston Township High School Dist. 202 “improperly withheld records” from a pair of journalists after they were sought through a Freedom of Information Act request. Two local reporters had submitted separate Freedom of Information...

• Facing possible $9M budget shortfall, Evanston leaders consider revenue options

  Social services in Evanston may not face big cuts next fiscal year, but parking fees will likely rise as aldermen look for ways to deal with a potential $9 million budget shortfall in 2019. That’s according to a discussion at the Evanston City Council meeting on Monday, as aldermen prepare for...

• 2 men facing separate charges of methamphetamine possession: Evanston police

  The following items were taken from Evanston Police Department reports and press releases. An arrest does not constitute a finding of guilt. Burglary Walter Leon Carson, 26, of the 2200 block of East 68th Street, Chicago, was charged with burglary following an incident Sept. 12 in the 2600 block...

• Collaborative community rally celebrates new school year in 'best college town in America'

  Evanston community spirit soared during the Kits, Cats and Kids Block Party Thursday Sept. 13 evening in Fountain Square, where scores of participants gathered to celebrate the annual back to school season with Evanstonian hometown flair. Evanston Deputy City Manager Kimberly Richardson said the...

• Evanston to offer reduced Divvy membership rate for low-income families

  Divvy rental bikes are being made available for as little as $5 to lower income riders in Evanston as part of a program to make the rental bikes available to more people, city officials announced in a news release. Evanston residents ages 16 and older with an annual household income at or below...

• Evanston lawsuit against Nicor and ComEd continues, with hearing set for January

  The lawsuit Evanston filed two years ago against Nicor and ComEd, alleging the utilities helped contaminate some water lines in the city, is moving forward — albeit slowly. Oral arguments are scheduled for Jan. 23, more than a year after after Evanston filed a motion for preliminary injunction...

• Prairie View Plaza in Morton Grove sold to Oak Brook, UK developers

  The aging Prairie View Plaza strip mall property in Morton Grove has been sold to developers, mayor Dan DiMaria recently announced. “It’s a very, very exciting announcement for Morton Grove. Probably one of our bigger ones in recent years,” DiMara said at the Sept. 10 Village Board meeting. Oakbrook-based...

• Funeral services set for Lorraine Morton, the former Evanston mayor remembered as a mentor, friend and role model

  The tributes to Evanston’s first black Mayor Lorraine Morton – and the longest serving one – continue to pour in, as the family prepares to lay her to rest in the coming days. “Ms. Morton, Mom... It was you and your love that has helped me to strive to be a better person and for that I am eternally...

• Evanston, Skokie attorneys appear in court over water lawsuit, proceedings merely a 'check-in,' counsel says

  Attorneys from Evanston and Skokie were in court at the Richard J. Daley Center in Chicago Thursday for a status update, even as the civil lawsuit Evanston filed in Cook County Circuit Court against its neighboring town last year remains on hold. Evanston sued Skokie in September 2017 after the...

• Column: Hard work well done can be its own type of prayer

  When I was a boy, the nuns advised us on how to go about our work. How you work, they told us, was like a little prayer. Offer it up to God. Do the best you can, no matter how great or small the job, because it is a sacrifice to God. The Lord is watching us. Give Him your best. That’s what makes...

• Column: Airbnb guest's bad experience turns worse after host's negative review

  In October 2017, I got a job offer in Chicago and traveled cross country by car with all my belongings from San Francisco. I reserved a monthly Airbnb rental as I did not know Chicago well and would then have time to research places to live. I arrived Oct. 15 to a filthy Airbnb apartment. There...

• Shout Out: Leslie Sevcik, a gardener and golfer, and craft show organizer

  Leslie Sevcik, 60, has lived in Evanston for 22 years. She is co-chair of the American Craft Exposition happening Sept. 20-23 at the Chicago Bortanic Garden. Q: Why are you excited to lead the American Craft Exposition? A: We are supporting fine craft in America and raising funds for an important...

• Column: Single parents lean on each other and drink wine in new ABC comedy

  Maybe it’s because I’ve been a single parent for 11 years, or maybe it’s simply because I am a parent (regardless of marital status), but when I saw the preview for the new ABC sitcom, “Single Parents,” I laughed hysterically. The show, with stars that include Brad Garrett, Leighton Meester and...

• 2 charged in separate DUI incidents: Evanston police

  The following items were taken from Evanston Police Department reports and releases. An arrest does not constitute a finding of guilt. Residential burglary Sam Mason, 22, of the 3300 block of North Albany Avenue, Chicago, was charged with residential burglary following an incident Sept. 3 in the...

• 9/11 ceremony in Evanston also 'remembers those who continue to suffer'

  As Evanston residents, emergency first responders, city leaders and clergy gathered Tuesday at Fireman’s Park in the north suburb to honor those who died in the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, they also stressed the value in teaching younger generations the importance of what happened that day....

• Lorraine Morton, Evanston's first African-American mayor, dies at 99

  Lorraine Morton was a woman of firsts. Over the course of many decades spent serving Evanston, Morton went from being one of the first teachers in the North Shore suburb to break the public school color barrier to becoming the city’s first African-American mayor. Morton, 99, died Saturday evening...

• Skokie Temple Judea Mizpah joins Beth Emet Synagogue in Evanston amid declining membership

  Temple Judea Mizpah leaders say they do not like to use the word “merger” to describe when the long-standing Skokie synagogue becomes one with Beth Emet The Free Synagogue in Evanston this month. “It sounds too business,” said Seymour Lipton, a Temple Judea Mizpah member since 1964. Still, Temple...

• Devil is in the details for revised association health plans touting cost savings

  While speaking with Oak Park attorney Larry Grudzien for my Aug. 22 column, “When employer deducts health insurance premiums but provides no insurance, who can help?”, he informed me of a recent health insurance development about which small businesses and the self-employed need to take note. On...

• Shout Out: Rebecca Jordan, thespian who also loves Hungarian Vizslas

  Evanston native Rebecca Jordan returned to her hometown in 2014 after spending 11 years in Los Angeles. Now she is returning to a favorite old haunt, appearing in Shattered Globe Theatre’s “Crime and Punishment,” Sept. 6-Oct. 20, at Theater Wit. Jordan was one of the founding ensemble members of...

• Column: Everything is political these days, even the moon landing

  One of the problems with living in America today is that everything is political. There is no escaping politics on any level. Every aspect of life has been politicized and politics has been weaponized. From tearing down statues of nameless Confederate soldiers to watching the NFL, everything seems...

• Lincolnwood police 'bust a move' in lip sync challenge video: 'It gets the community behind you'

  The Lincolnwood Police Department didn’t back down from a friendly dare by Skokie police, and has become one of the latest squads to participate in the lip sync challenge. “I’m good friends with the chief from Skokie and I thought it was great that he challenged us to see how good we could do to...

• Column: When your girlfriend isn’t your girlfriend anymore

  There’s nothing worse than the end of a romantic relationship. In a breakup, one or both people have immensely painful feelings that can include sadness, loneliness, anger, regret, fear and the worst one, heartbreak. But there’s another kind of breakup that can cause women similar feelings: when...

• Vibrant culture of western Mexico state comes alive in Evanston

  Many in the crowd chanted “viva Mexico” in the main auditorium of Evanston Township High School Thursday evening, welcoming the annual “Jalisco en Evanston” celebration that comes as a prelude to Hispanic heritage month. Presented by the Federation of Hometown Associations from the State of Jalisco,...

• Classes begin at Evanston/Skokie School District 65, new principal greets families at Bessie Rhodes

  Class resumed for the new school year Monday for more than 11,000 area elementary and high school students. Evanston/Skokie School District 65 welcomed some 8,000 students in K-8 to its 15 schools. “I am very excited to welcome our staff, students, and families back,” Supt. Paul Goren said in the...

• Column: Being a Catholic means having feelings of anger and revulsion. Does hope fit in?

  Being a Catholic all these years in the wake of Vatican II is enough to test anyone’s faith. Today, with the latest revelations of the church’s ongoing sex abuse scandal, it sure isn’t going to be easy to remain. To be a Catholic right now is to struggle with emotions of anger, revulsion, skepticism,...

• Shout Out: Lea Basile Lazarus, art teacher who also loves the Evanston lakefront

  Lea Basile Lazarus, 64, is an art teacher and print maker who lives in Evanston. Her work can be seen at the 1100 Florence gallery from Sept. 7-18. Q: How did you become interested in printmaking? A: When I was in college at The College of New Jersey I had a printmaking teacher, Wendell Brooks,...

• New principal takes helm of Gemini as it sets to transform from junior high to middle school

  Lewis Roberts, the new principal at Gemini Junior High School, said he’s trying not to settle into his new office too much. He’s going to move in a year anyway. Still, the Mickey Mouse and Chicago Cubs posters, framed family photos and a small stuffed unicorn are among the items slowly assuming...

• From a new car to paying for nursing school — what 34 divorced women did after selling the ring

  It was almost 20 years ago, but I can still vividly remember the moment my boyfriend asked me to marry him, and then pulled out a diamond engagement ring. It was a cold winter night, and we were sitting on the rug in front of my fireplace in my downtown condo. When I saw the little box, I was in...

• Help Squad: Health insurers and other corporations analyze our plentiful personal data, then devise ways to profit from findings

  I recently read a ProPublica article that both concerned me and inspired me to learn more. It was titled “Health Insurers Are Vacuuming Up Details About You — And It Could Raise Your Rates.” How are insurers doing this? According to the post, health insurance companies are now purchasing information...

• Art, food make for 'big' end of summer festival in Evanston

  Crowds recently gathered on the closed streets of downtown Evanston for the annual Art and Big Fork Festival 2018, a weekend-long eclectic celebration of art, live music and local fare. Over 130 artists from near and far were featured, homespun talent from Evanston and the North Shore, alongside...

• Amid ongoing enrollment decline, Oakton college leaders looking at ways to rebound

  As Oakton Community College continues to watch its student numbers decline, staff and members of the school’s Board of Trustees say they are working to bump those numbers back up. “On average about 16 to 18 percent of the high schoolers in our district choose to attend Oakton,” Cheryl Warmann,...

• Local crews continue to search for 20-year-old kayaker missing in Lake Michigan

  A 20-year-old Glenview man is missing after his kayak capsized on Lake Michigan near Highland Park late Monday night. Highland Park police identified the missing man as Sebastian Duncan. He had not been found as of 8 p.m. Tuesday. Highland Park police and fire responded to the scene at about 10:40...

• Evanston fire chief retiring after a quarter-century of service

  A flag-lowering ceremony was one of the events planned to honor a veteran Evanston Fire Department division chief who announced he is retiring after nearly three decades of service. Dwight Hohl joined the fire department in 1992 as a firefigher/paramedic. His last day was Aug. 20. “Chief Hohl has...

• Vice president takes over as head of Skokie/Evanston School District 65 teachers union

  As Meg Krulee steps in as president of the teachers union for Evanston/Skokie School District 65, she takes over at the beginning of new contract negotiations and at a time when unions nationwide are figuring out what a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling could mean for their membership. “I am looking...

• Harley Clarke Mansion referendum headed for November ballot in Evanston

  The Evanston Electoral Board overruled and dismissed objections Tuesday to a petition related to getting a nonbinding referendum on the November ballot that would ask residents if they want to see the Harley Clarke Mansion preserved at “minimal or no cost to Evanston taxpayers.” Now, supporters...

• Chicago man who sped from Kenilworth cops, abandoned toddler and fled on Metra gets 3 years in prison

  A 20-year-old Chicago man who sped away from Kenilworth police then abandoned his vehicle with a toddler and three passengers inside, was sentenced Wednesday to three years in prison, prosecutors said. Davontay Thomas pleaded guilty to charges of burglary, aggravated battery to a police officer...

• Column: Change the schedule and expand the playoffs. Baseball is due for a radical overhaul.

  Baseball and its fans don’t like change. The designated hitter rule has been in place for 45 years, but only for the American League. The last major rule change before that came in 1969 when the pitcher’s mound was lowered to its present height of 10 inches, down from 15 inches. Those changes were...

• Shout Out: Youngock Lee, former engineer turned community college instructor

  Youngock Lee, 64, a psychology professor at Oakton Community College, recently won the school’s 2018 Ray Hartstein Award for Outstanding Professional Excellence in Teaching for a part-time faculty member. She lives in Northbrook. Q: How did you become interested in psychology? A: I am a mid-life...

• Judge says Skokie's federal lawsuit against Evanston over water rates can continue — for now

  A federal judge has denied the city of Evanston’s motion to strike the amended complaint Skokie filed in federal court as part of the two towns’ ongoing battle over water rates. Federal court Judge Charles Kocoras made the ruling Aug. 21, and further outlined a schedule for how the case may proceed...

• Column: All I'm askin' is for a little respect

  There are certain elements I think most couples deem necessary for sustaining a happy, healthy romantic relationship. These include trust, loyalty, thoughtfulness, likability and laughter, to name a few. But there’s one thing that might trump all of these. It’s something that can foster immense...

• Help Squad: When employer deducts health insurance premiums but provides no insurance, who can help?

  Within a span of a few days I received the below two emails requesting advice on what to do about an employer who deducts health and dental insurance premiums from employees’ paychecks but doesn’t provide coverage. Neither of the individuals would provide the company’s name or the town in which...

• Evanston's socially historic Family Focus building is for sale. A local group is trying to save it.

  Wings of the the building on Dewey Avenue in Evanston that house the Family Focus program have alternately been burned down, added onto, expanded, remodeled and replaced. But the reasons to preserve the historic building, said 5th Ward Ald. Robin Rue Simmons, are not about the architecture. Instead,...

• Evanston families get school supplies, health screenings and more at Bethel church fair

  The health fair and back to school festival held earlier this month brought more 300 people to Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Evanston. “I love it because the idea is giving back to the community,” said the Rev. Rosalind K. Shorter Henderson, pastor of Bethel A.M.E. Church. “It is...

• Leaders say Evanston/Skokie School District 65 fiscally sound this year, but deficit predicted by 2025

  Evanston/Skokie School District 65 officials have proposed a budget of $129.5 million for the 2018-2019 school year, including money for nearly 20 new positions as the district takes advantage of increased property tax revenue following approval of a 2017 referendum. School board members commended...

• Column: New homeowners face difficulties when removing photos from online listings

  We recently purchased a property and, like many other consumers, we want the listing photos removed for both privacy and security reasons. However, as you may know, this is a huge problem. The real estate and property appraisal industry claims that it's bad for business, which trumps individuals’...

• Pediatric medical center could move into some Carson's space at Edens Plaza

  Roughly 35,000 square feet of Edens Plaza space that will be left empty when Carson’s closes for good later this summer could become a pediatric care center run jointly by NorthShore University HealthSystem and Advocate Health Care. If the plan passes muster with the state and Wilmette, the center...

• Shout Out: Warren Langley, Australian artist here enjoying the local weather

  Warren Langley, 68, of Sydney, Australia was visiting Evanston in August for two weeks, in the city to install his newest art piece, “Stitch” at the intersection of Ridge Avenue, Emerson Street and Green Bay Road. Q: What was your inspiration for “Stitch,” the new art piece in Evanston? A: Stitch...

• Column: We've always had conspiracy theorists like Alex Jones, now they have megaphones

  You don’t have to work in journalism very long before learning there are a few people out there who are on the fringe. At first glance, they seem just like everyone else. They live regular lives in their communities, they go shopping, send their kids to school, love America and take their duties...

• Column: There's nothing like those Robert Redford romances

  As a young girl watching “The Way We Were,” I could never understand why Katie and Hubbell weren’t able to work things out. Their love seemed so strong, almost indestructible. But as a 50-something-year-old divorced woman, I totally get it. The theory (and the Paula Abdul song) “Opposites Attract”...

• Retiring Evanston police officer reunited with girl he helped save: 'I was so focused on helping the baby'

  In his 26 years on the Evanston police force, Officer Mark Buell has worked murder, robbery, burglary and home invasion cases and even helped track down $750,000 worth of stolen jewelry. But on Friday, Buell said his most intense moment as an Evanston cop came earlier this year when he and two...

• Monthly pop-up food pantry draws hundreds to Robert Crown Center in Evanston

  Monthly on Tuesdays outside the Robert Crown Center in Evanston, scores of people line up early to get a variety of food from the free pop-up food pantry that rolls through the area. The crowds start arriving at Robert Crown Center before 7:45 a.m., to pick up a number and secure their place in...

• Rain forced National Night Out events indoors as Evanston wards combined efforts

  Heavy rain altered the outdoor plans that some Evanston leaders had made for National Night Out, forcing some activities to be canceled or have a delayed start. But, “the weather cannot stop us,” said Ald. Peter Braithwaite. His 2nd Ward joined with the 5th and 7th wards and held combined National...

• Woman killed at Skokie hotel was shot in the face: Medical examiner's office

  Skokie police say they are interviewing several people of interest in connection with the shooting death Saturday of a 22-year-old woman at a local hotel, but no arrests have been made. The Cook County medical examiner’s office identified the woman as Leslie Coronel, of the 5900 block of South...

• Foster Street garden in Evanston offers produce and 'connection to a greater community'

  When Chef Q. Ibraheem looks over the vines, flowers, bugs, berries, and children at the Foster Street Garden in Evanston, she sees connection to a greater community. It was on one summer day in August when the Evanston Review visited the plot. A folding table holds piles of cucumbers, squash, edible...

• A new photo exhibit brings #metoo to gallery walls in Evanston

  In a narrow, one-room space in downtown Evanston, seven photographers share powerful, colorful, intimate stories of sexual harassment. This month, the Perspective Group and Photography Gallery presents “#metoo: a photographic exhibition exploring sexual harassment.” Many of the photographers work...

• Column: How to stay secure when all your devices rely on the Internet of Things

  Have you ever stopped to think about how many items in your home are connected to the internet? If you have (or even if you are doing it just now), have you stopped to wonder why? The umbrella term for all these connected appliances, electronics and other devices is “smart.” We are living in the...

• West Nile virus at levels not seen since 2012, North Shore agency says

  The risk of West Nile virus infection is at a level not seen since 2012 when an outbreak infected 290 Illinois residents, the North Shore Mosquito Abatement District announced Thursday. The infection rate of mosquitoes collected in district traps during the past week has increased significantly,...

• Evanston ethics board violated Open Meetings Act at March meeting, attorney general rules

  The Illinois Attorney General’s Office recently ruled that the Evanston Board of Ethics violated the state Open Meetings Act at a March meeting of the board. The decision came via a letter dated July 31 to Evanston resident Misty Witenberg — who filed the complaint — and city attorney Michelle...

• Column: For Chain O' Lakes, safety needs to be a priority

  The Chain O’ Lakes has long been a summer playground for Chicago area families. If you grew up in northern Illinois, you probably have great memories of summer vacations or long weekends on the Chain. Those memories are full of wonderful moments of learning to swim, catching your first blue gill...

• Shout Out: Vanessa Filley, shutterbug with a sweet tooth

  Photographer and Evanston resident Vanessa Filley, 42, is the Frances Willard House Museum inaugural artist in residence. She has lived in Evanston for 12 years. Q: How did you get started in photography? A: My father was the family photographer in our house and I remember looking at his early...

• Column: When your husband and your BFF fall in love

  It sounds like the storyline of a Lifetime movie, but affairs between a husband (or wife) and his or her spouse’s best friend really do happen. A lot. I have gotten dozens of emails from readers sharing their stories and asking for advice. Here is one I received this past week: My husband has admitted...

• Evanston continues to stare down possible FY19 budget deficit as high as $9M: City officials

  Evanston might be staring down a deficit for fiscal year 2019 that could be as much as $9 million, but FY2018 looks like it will end with the budget balanced, according to city officials. “Most of the departments are under budget,” said Hitesh Desai, he city’s chief financial officer and treasurer....

• Get some culture and food at Evanston's Art and Big Fork Festival

  Original artwork, live music and top nosh come together for Evanston’s Art and Big Fork Festival. Featuring food, beer, wine and music, as well as original works from 130 artists available for purchase, the Evanston Art and Big Fork Festival is Aug. 17-19 in downtown Evanston. Amy Amdur is the...

• Film documents life of Evanston's longest-serving mayor Lorraine Morton, who turns 100 this year

  Lorraine Morton has been a local school teacher, principal, alderman and has the distinction of being longest-serving mayor of Evanston. Now, the 99-year-old is the subject of a documentary, “Lorraine H. Morton: A Life Worthwhile” which was screened recently in the Parasol Room at the Evanston...

• World champion brings Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to Wilmette

  The boys and girls gathered around Gustavo Ariel Rudel at the Staley Martial Arts studio in Wilmette were getting a friendly but careful inspection of their uniforms from their Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor. Once he ensured that each uniform, known as a gi, was properly tied in place, Rudel sent...

• Evanston Golf Club event, McDonald's salads among culprits in Lake County cases of food-borne illness, officials say

  A food-borne illness tied to sources that include McDonald’s and an Evanston Golf Club event last month has affected 43 Lake County residents, 14 times higher than the amount of similar illnesses reported last year, the Lake County Heath Department reported Monday. Health department officials said...

• Communities, police in north suburbs preparing for annual National Night Out

  Police departments across the region are preparing for one of the biggest, collective national community engagement events of the year, with Evanston, Niles, Morton Grove, Skokie and – for the first time – Lincolnwood set for Tuesday’s event. National Night Out is a nationwide crime awareness program...

• Column: Prepare for the unexpected when shopping for new cars

  I came across your great article, "Consumer learns new car warranty started prior to purchase," while doing research on our potential new vehicle purchase. We are in the process of buying a 2018 Hyundai and now the dealer has informed us the vehicle promised was already sold. They have since found...

• Evanston aldermen deny couple's appeal after commission rejects plans for lakefront home in historic district

  Evanston aldermen rejected a couple’s appeal to build their “dream home” in a historic district on Lake Michigan, saying at a July City Council meeting that Adam Sudlow and Sue Lee had not properly responded to the city’s Preservation Commission as they sought to make their vision a reality. “The...

• Column: Reducing plastic straws is fine, going after the fishing industry is better

  Are you joining the growing movement to ban plastic straws? That’s great if you are, because disposable plastic straws and coffee stirrers are not environmentally friendly. Any child can see that. As a matter of fact, it was a 9-year-old child who helped raise awareness of this new, trendy environmental...

• Shout Out: Erin Jackson, attorney who enjoys paddleboard yoga and vegan donuts

  Erin Jackson, 33, is an attorney practicing in Evanston who is devoted to helping others who have suffered from pain. Q: Why did you decide to open your business here? A: My husband and I live in Evanston and feel so at home in this community, so we didn't consider opening our business anywhere...

• When dementia is the real reason behind a couple's issues

  During the past 20 years that Dr. Andrew Budson has been a practicing neurologist, he has often seen and treated patients who are recently separated or going through a divorce due to personality and behavior changes. What’s the correlation? Dementia. “Everyone thinks the first symptom of dementia...

• World arts and music fest in Evanston featured ecclectic lineup of food, crafts and culture

  The Evanston World Arts and Music Festival transformed the Arrington Lakefront Lagoon at Dawes Park into a Global Village earlier this month for the two-day event billed as a celebration of world cultures, arts, music and diversity. Built around a traditional World’s Fair paradigm – event organizers...

• Northwestern athletics center: Structural drama uplifts a building that fires the latest shot in college sports' facilities arms race

  The decadence of college football’s facilities arms race boggles the mind. Alabama’s practice palace is outfitted with mini-waterfalls that pour into a hydrotherapy pool. Clemson’s has a nine-hole miniature golf course. Oregon’s has an auditorium with seats covered in Ferrari leather. And now,...