Top Stories of the Year in Skokie

SKOKIE, IL - 2016 was a busy year when it came to news on the national level, and Skokie became involved in the top headlines of the year. The appointment of a local man to the Supreme Court of the United States sparked a national controversy.

Let’s take a look back at that and other stories that turned some heads in Skokie in 2016.

Merrick Garland, a Niles West Grad and Lincolnwood Man, Nominated to Supreme Court: President Barack Obama nominated Garland to replace Antonin Scalia on the nation’s highest court, but Republicans have refused to schedule a hearing or vote on the president’s appointment.
Related: Merrick Garland Gives Commencement Speech at Niles West

Obama Cracks Skokie Jokes During Discussion at University of Chicago: While discussing the Garland appointment at the University of Chicago, Obama referred to our village more than once. Each time - mainly because of the way he said it - resulted in a howl of laughter from the crowd welcoming back their native hero.
Related: Skokie Pride Follows President’s Comments

Jollibee Opens in Skokie to Long Lines: The village saw a number of new business openings in 2016, but none that produced the length of the lines seen outside Jollibee, a national Filipino favorite. Fans loved it so much that a second Chicagoland location opened recently this year on the North Side of the city.

Jamaican Bobsled Team Includes Niles West Coach: Michael Blair earned a chance to tryout for the team made famous in the 1990s movie “Cool Runnings.”

New 4th Grade Teacher’s Rap Video Captivates the Nation: Dwayne Reed walked into the classroom at Jane Stenson Elementary School as a full-time teacher for the first time in his life. He ensured his career would get off to a great start by showing a rap video, “Welcome to the 4th Grade,” that soon had the jingle in the heads of people across the country.

Real Urban BBQ Plans Skokie Opening: One of Chicagoland’s most popular barbecue chains decided this year that their fourth suburban location will be in Skokie. It will open in the spring of 2017 on Touhy Avenue, across from the former Jack’s Restaurant.

Day Care Lost Track of Toddler Girl: A young girl crawled away from a day care center on Dempster Street in June. The day care center who admitted responsibility was not fined.