Thursday, June 25, 2020 | View in browser
Good afternoon,
Read below for information about Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois plan, the Virtual Independence Day Celebration, and more.
As a reminder, you can find the latest Evanston-specific COVID-19 updates on the City's website.
 COVID-19 updates and information
Thanks to our collective efforts, Illinois and Evanston will reach Phase 4 of Governor Pritzker's Restore Illinois plan this Fri., June 26.
What does this mean? Additional businesses and activities may resume with public safety guidelines and capacity limits in place. The City is awaiting State public health guidelines regarding the reopening of playgrounds, and will provide an update as soon as these are available.
Stay #Evanstrong: It's critical that we all continue to take preventive actions to reduce the spread of COVID-19, including washing hands frequently for at least 20 seconds, practicing strict physical distancing when in public, and wearing a cloth face covering when a six-foot distance from others is difficult to maintain.
Corornavirus Q&A: Tune in on Tues., June 30 at noon as Mayor Hagerty and City staff discuss Phase 4 public health guidelines and the City's safe reopening plans. View the Q&A on Channel 16 or on the City's Facebook page. Submit questions in advance or during the event.
Community testing: The City has partnered with AMITA Health St. Francis Hospital to provide COVID-19 community testing for residents who may not otherwise have access. The next event will take place on Mon., June 29, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., at the James Park Field House parking lot.
 The Fourth of July celebration goes virtual!
The Evanston Fourth of July Association has replaced its traditional 4th of July activities with an alternative virtual celebration due to COVID-19. This year's celebratory theme, "Community United Cannot Be Divided," will bring the community together through Facebook Live, the Evanston Fourth of July Association's website and WCGO Radio 1590AM/95.9FM.
Schedule: Go behind the scenes of the 4th of July Celebration and Parade at 11 a.m. Then at 2 p.m., enjoy a Virtual Parade. The celebration will conclude with a Virtual Band Concert & Fireworks Show at 8 p.m. Residents are also encouraged to participate in a 4th of July Photo Contest and decorate their lawn chairs to display in their front lawns.
Fireworks reminder: Please remember that fireworks are illegal in Evanston because they are dangerous and can be distressing to individuals and pets that are sensitive to loud noises. Violators are subject to citations.
 Participate in the city manager recruitment process
The City is conducting a public recruitment and selection process for the next city manager and is asking for your feedback on the characteristics and traits that candidates should possess as well as the opportunities and challenges he/she may face.
Attend a public meeting: The City is hosting two virtual public meetings via Zoom to solicit community input on the search on Tues., June 30 and Tues., July 7 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Advanced registration is required.
Take the survey: Community members are encouraged to submit their input through a confidential survey in either English or Spanish. This survey must be completed by Fri., July 10.
 Street cleaning enforcement resumes June 29
The City suspended enforcement of non-safety related parking violations during the statewide Stay at Home Order. As we make progress towards a safe recovery, please remember that street cleaning enforcement will resume on June 29 and fines will be issued for violations at that time. The City resumed enforcement of other parking restrictions earlier this month.
More news and events
Beach tokens are available online
Evanston beaches open for swimming on Wed., July 1. A daily pass or season token must be presented for beach admission. Beach tokens are available for purchase online and in person at multiple locations.
Free 'drive up, drop off' recycling event
Bring your recyclable items to the 10th annual "Evanston Recycles" event on Sat., July 11, from 9 a.m. to noon, at Evanston Township High School. Due to COVID-19, new safety rules have been put in place and only electronic waste and documents for shredding will be collected.
Contact-free library pickups now available
Good news! Evanston residents can now get books, DVDs, and more from the Evanston Public Library in a safe and contact-free way. Learn more.
Brain Break activity packets available to seniors
Do you know a senior who is housebound or socially isolated? The City's Senior Services Division, in coordination with community partners, is sending monthly Brain Break activity packets to interested seniors who want to stay connected and engaged. Fill out this form with their information, and we'll make sure to reach out!
City extends its contract with Dynegy
City Council has approved a short-term extension of the City’s contract with Dynegy Energy Services, LLC to provide participating residents and small businesses with 100 percent renewable energy. City staff plan to issue a RFP in the fall after gathering community input on its energy priorities.
Get Engaged
Community Calendar
Featured Evanstonian
 Gerald "Gerry" Johnson
This week's "Featured Evanstonian" is Gerry Johnson, a lifelong Evanstonian who has given back to the LGBTQIA+ community by volunteering his time at organizations throughout Chicago and Evanston. Learn about Gerry!
That’s it for today's e-news! Thanks for reading.
Sincerely,
The City of Evanston Communications Team
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