Thursday, June 4, 2020 | View in browser
We are facing challenging times. The new challenges posed by COVID-19, and the persistent challenges presented by systematic racism are at the forefront today. People are weary of condolences and they should be. It was horrifying to see what happened to George Floyd. People in our country rightly believe that this kind of treatment will continue to happen because there is no fundamental change that has resulted from the countless others before George Floyd. Until there is an acceptance of the fundamental premise that no one person is better than another, there can be no healing. It is not enough to speak out or speak loudly. We must see clearly, seek truth and fight oppression. Systemic racism and white supremacy will only change with structural change that is built on truth. I encourage everyone to find something tangible to do to further change.
I also want to make you aware that the City Council is considering hiring Interim City Manager Erika Storlie to the position of City Manager. Erika has been with the City of Evanston for 16 years, in a number of positions, eventually serving as the Interim Manager since last fall. Originally, the City had planned to conduct a nationwide search for the successor to the last City Manager; however, COVID-19 has delayed the commencement of that process. In the interim, Ms. Storlie has demonstrated the qualities I think are both necessary, and desirable, for the person assuming this important responsibility. The Council will consider this question over two meetings, and I am interested to hear any input that you may have on Ms. Storlie's performance.
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Visit our COVID-19 webpage for daily case updates and the most recent communications.
Food resources
Youth and community food programs will continue throughout the summer, with some schedule modifications, to support residents facing economic hardship and food insecurity as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Youth Food Distribution: The City will continue to partner with School Districts 65 and 202 to provide free cold breakfasts and lunches to youth ages 1 to 18 on Mondays, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., through the month of June. This program will transition to the Summer Youth Food Program on July 6. More information.
Emergency Food Pantry: The City will continue to provide the Emergency Food Pantry at James Park. In order to extend the program beyond the initial eight weeks of planned operations, the pantry will operate every other Wednesday (twice monthly), from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The next pantry will be Wed., June 10. Donate to support the pantry.
View a list of additional community food resources.
Celebrate Pride Month with virtual activities and resources
Happy Pride Month! Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year's 2nd annual Pride Fest has been canceled. The City will instead celebrate Pride Month with virtual activities and online resources. Residents are encouraged to participate in weekly activities and read weekly resources.
Visit the Downtown Evanston Farmers' Market
The Downtown Evanston Farmers’ Market 45th season is underway. The Market is open every Saturday through November 7, from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at University Place and Oak Avenue, behind the Hilton Garden Inn. Learn more about the market.
Senior shopping hours: The Farmers' Market opens early for senior shoppers and those with disabilities from 7 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. every Saturday.
Wear a mask to help "reCOVERevanston"
We're all eager to get back to life as normal, but this can't happen without everyone's commitment to keeping each other healthy and safe by wearing a face covering when working in or patronizing businesses. Look for posters from our "reCOVERevanston" campaign in store windows and make sure to cover up!
Evanston beach tokens go on sale June 8
Evanston beaches, currently open for sand activities only, are scheduled to open for swimming beginning on Wed., July 1. A daily pass or season token must be presented for beach admission. Beach Tokens will be available for purchase beginning Mon., June 8 online and in person. Learn more.
Don't forget to fill out your 2020 census!
It’s critically important for you and everyone you know to fill out the 2020 U.S. Census. You can respond online at my2020census.gov, by phone at 844-330-2020, or by mail. Need assistance? Call 847-448-8630 to ask a Librarian from the Evanston Public Library for help in English or Spanish.
Donald Wilson Alderman, 4th Ward dwilson@cityofevanston.org www.cityofevanston.org
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