COVID Testing Scams | Hospitals Merge | Vaccination Proof Plans

We're halfway through a frigid first week of 2022 and facing continuing cold for the rest of the week. Get cozy if you can, and let's get caught up on the last couple of days in news from the northern Chicago suburbs.

Here is a look at what has been getting attention from Patch.com readers:

Beware Of 'Pop-Up' COVID-19 Testing Sites, Public Health Officials Warn

The sites are showing up in parking lots and sometimes not returning results, asking for personal information and charging patients.

Glenbrook Hospital Beds Filling Up With COVID-19 Patients

The Glenview hospital has been temporarily converted into an all inpatient COVID-19 care setting.
Read more: 'Ongoing Influx' At Local Hospitals Expected Through Month As Elective Surgeries, Routine Visits Canceled

NorthShore, Edward-Elmhurst Merger Receives Regulatory Approval

The merger of NorthShore University HealthSystem and Edward-Elmhurst Health creates the third-largest health care system in the state.

Staff Absences, Substitute Shortage Force School District To Go Remote

District 113 officials are expecting even more positive results from this week's COVID-19 testing.

Historic Hotel Short Sale Could Settle Foreclosure Suit

The New York-based owner of the downtown Evanston hotel appears headed for a significant loss on its sale.

Long Lines In Bitter Cold At Lake Co. Testing Site Monday

The Lake County Health Department has increased the number of days testing will be available at its Water Street Clinic in Waukegan.

Village Borrows $160 Million For Pensions, $27 Million For Garage

Skokie village trustees on Monday approved a plan to issue up to $187 million in general obligation bonds.

Suburban YMCAs To Require Vaccination Proof

The YMCA of Metro Chicago Association announced proof of vaccination would be required starting Feb. 1 at fitness centers outside Cook Co.

Vaccination Proof Not Required In Lake County Portion Of Village

Buffalo Grove Village Board opts not to follow the same guidelines required for businesses in the Cook County portion of the village.

POLICE REPORTS

• Dapper Desperado Armed With Gun Robs Evanston Bank
• Teacher Accused Of Felony Sexual Assault, Abuse Of Student
• 2 Injured After Union Pacific-North Metra Train Strikes Car
• Discharged Fire Extinguishers Trigger Building Alarms: Blotter
• 2 Intruders Tie Up Housesitter, Burglarize North Shore Mansion, Prosecutor Say

ICYMI: Fires Displace Residents | Schools React To Omicron | Temps Drop