Noah Levy

                                    Botanic Gardens in Glencoe hosts Spooky Pooch Parade.  The Chicago Botanic Garden is one of my favorite North Shore destinations, but I always wish that I could bring my dog to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. This Saturday, October 29 is her lucky day, because for two hours, the garden will be open to dogs for the annual Spooky Pooch Parade. Bring fido and the whole family for an afternoon of fun including a dog costume contest, nonprofits sharing info and local pet shops selling the latest in canine chic. Costume contest prizes include a subscription to FIDO Friendly magazine, gift certificates to Carriage Hill Kennels, Sugar's Paw House and North Shore Pet Chef, a photography package from Sutton Studios, Planet Dog leashes and hats and tennis balls (the greatest thing ever, as far as my silly rescue pup is concerned).

Bring your pup, enjoy the changing foliage and crisp fall air, and take in all of the natural beauty of the North Shore.  While you're in the neighborhood, check out my listing on Judson, it's the single best deal on the Shore right now in the heart of Ravinia. It's a beautiful area year round, but Fall in Highland Park takes my breath away every single year, without fail.

Happy Halloween! 

The above article, Botanic Gardens in Glencoe hosts Spooky Pooch Parade, was written by Noah Levy - A REALTOR assisting buyers and sellers along Chicago's North Shore.

                                                                The Great Pumpkin Fest is Back in Highwood Illinois.   It's that time of year - leaves are falling, the temperature is dropping and many homes are being decorated for Halloween. The festivities begin today October 19 through Saturday October October 22, 2011.  The residents of Highwood  are are excited to break a record on October 22,2011 as they attempt to break the Guinness Book of World Record for the most Jack-O-Lanterns lit in one location.  In addition, the city Of Highwood and Keene, New Hampshire  have decided to compete against one another -  Go Highwood!!!

The goal which Highwood IL has set is to have 32,000 jack-o-laterns lit up on October 22, 2011 and to break the current world's record which was set in Boston MA in 2006 where 30,128 pumpkins were lit.  Last year Highwood IL hosted a successful Jack-O-Lantern wall- drawing record crowds.   A total of 26,287  jack-o-lanterns were lit and the event was great fun for all.  This year the city of Highwood IL  has added many family fun events to kick off the challenge and hopes to break the current Guinness World Record along with beating the town of Keene, New Hampshire.  Highwood will be hosting a four day Great Pumpkin Fest beginning on Wednesday October 19, 2011thru Saturday October 22, 2011.

The line-up for the Great Pumpkin Fest is quite awesome this year.  Including many fun activities for all age groups.  For more information and various events check out http://www.highwoodpumpkinfest.com.

Highwood is an adjoining town to Highland Park  it  featuring  many wonderful restaurants and during the summer months it hosts an amazing evening farmer's market.  Families who live in Highwood attend Highland Park Schools - District 112 and District 113.

Don't miss the fun - Highwood IL is calling all pumpkin carvers from near or far to participate in this fun and record breaking event. Just think you could be a part of a history!

The above article, Great Pumpkin Fest is Back in Highwood Illinois, was written by Noah Levy - A REALTOR  assisting buyers and sellers with their real estate needs along Chicago's North Shore Suburbs.

Port Clinton Art Festival is this Weekend (August 27-28) in Highland Park IL.  The Port Clinton Art Festival is definitely one of my favorite outdoor events that take place in Highland Park IL every year.  For its  28th year the Port Clinton Art Festival  will be open on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m- 6p.m with over 260 artists displaying their unique fine art for sale in Port Clinton Square and along the sidewalks of downtown Highland Park.

Oil or water color paintings, Ceramics, Jewelry, glass pieces - whatever you may in have mind will sure to be displayed among the many artists who will have their work displayed for sale  in Highland Park this weekend.  The artists participating come in for this event from all over the country and even as far as Canada and Israel. Many of the artists return to Highland Park year after year for this event.  The Port Clinton Art Festival was founded and is produced by Highland Park's Amdur Productions and ranked as one of the best art shows in the country.

In addition to the Port Clinton Art Festival the Fifth Annual Taste of Highland Park will take place this weekend - beginning Friday evening through 6pm on Sunday. Participating local restaurants  will feature their delicious creations on Central Avenue between 1st and 2nd Street.  You'll be sure to find something to fill your taste-buds and quench your thirst.

Don't miss this fun filled weekend event taking place in Highland Park IL this weekend.  Admission and parking is free.  I know I can't wait!!!

The above article, Port Clinton Art Festival is this Weekend (August 27-28) in Highland Park IL, was written by Noah Levy - a REALTOR  serving buyers and sellers along Chicago's North Shore with their Real Estate needs.

Highland Park Illinois July 4th  2011 Fireworks and Happenings.  

Every July 4th in Highland Park IL  the city and Park District of Highland Park plan a  fabulous  day filled  with fun activities which is  followed by a wonderful evening featuring  an amazing display of fireworks.

The festivities for the 4th of July celebration  in Highland Park will begin at 9:30 on Monday morning.   The Children's Bicycle and Pet Parade participants should line up on the corners of Central and St. Johns Avenues.   Everyone is invited to participate and decorating  bikes, strollers and wagons is encouraged.   Don't forget to bring your dog and feel free to dress them up! The community parade will begin at 10:00  featuring local businesses, floats, marching bands, dignitaries and entertainers will follow the Children and Pet Parade.   Coldwell Banker  will be a participant be sure to look for our float and  the chip clips which we will be giving away.  Both groups will head to Sunset Woods Park.

Upon arriving at Sunset Park be sure to enjoy The Park District of Highland Park's  Annual July 4th Carnival.  The carnival will be open from 11:00 to 2:00pm.  Enjoy live music, inflatables for children, rides, petting zoo and local food vendors.  The event is free but there is a cost for games and rides - tickets can be purchased at Sunset Park.

The evening's festivities will begin  at 6:00 p.m. at Wolters Field, 1080 Park Avenue West.   The festivities will start off with the Bitter Jester Battle of the Bands followed by the fireworks display. The bands will compete against one another fort the Championship.  The fireworks, which will be shot off from the Highland Park Country Club at 9:00 p.m., and  are easily viewed from Wolters Field.   Parking is available at Wolters, in the Highland Park Hospital's east parking lot at Midlothian and Park Avenue West, and at the Highland Park Country Club. Handicapped parking is available on the east side of Wolters Field, adjacent to the high school administration building.

Don't feel like heading to Wolters field?  Looking for a cool night out? Residents will also be able to take in the fireworks display while floating in the pools at the Hidden Creek Aqua Park, 1220 Fredrickson Place. The Park District's Float and Watch event, which costs $5 per person, runs from 8:15 p.m. to 10:45 p.m.

Have a Happy and Safe 4th of July ~ Enjoy!

The Highland Park Farmer's Market  in the Ravinia Neighborhood in Highland Park Illinois is back. The Ravinia Farmer's Market is open on Wednesdays from 7:00am to 1:00pm. every   There is nothing better than home grown tomatoes, fresh strawberries and blueberries.

 The Farmer's Market features farmer's and organic food growers. The Ravinia Farmer's Market is set up adjacent to Jens Jensen Park along Dean Avenue off of Roger Williams.  While visiting the Ravinia Farmer's Market, you can enjoy a cup of coffee and treat from Java Love located at  723 Saint Johns Avenue.  Another hot spot in Ravinia is Baker Boys, located at 733 Saint Johns- amazing cupcakes - a sweet spot for all ages.  If you are in the mood for an actual meal enjoy lunch outdoors at Abigail's located at 493 Roger Williams - the lunch menu is sure to satisfy both adults and children.  With the park adjacent to the Farmer's Market you can also picnic with a friend or your kids after purchasing fresh items at the market.

Once you stop over at Ravinia's Farmer's Market you'll be hooked - I know that I look forward to it opening every year. Enjoy!!

And.... If you can't maket it to the Farmer's market during the day -  How about Checking out Highwood's market on Wednesday evening or Glencoe's farmer's market on Saturday morning. There is nothing like fresh produce, baked goods and fresh flowers!!!!

The above article,The Highland Park  Farmer's Market in the Ravinia Neighborhood in Highland Park Illinois is back,  was written by Noah Levy- Highland Park REALTOR.

Ravinia  Festival  Highland Park IL - some great concerts during the 2011 season.

Ravinia is a wonderful outdoor park where you can enjoy live concerts with family and friends.  The Ravinia Festival is the oldest outdoor musical festival in North America and it is known world-wide for its first class programs.  It is a rich part of the cultural heritage of Highland Park Illinois and one of our greatest local treasures.  Ravinia dates back to 1904, when it was opened in its first incarnation as an amusement park designed to attract visitors from the nearby rail line.  During the great depression the grounds were shuttered for five years until community businessmen formed the non-profit Ravinia Festival Association to bring music to Highland Park Illinois.  In 1936 Ravinia became the summer home to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, which remains the crown jewel of the Festival's annual program.  

Summer in Highland Park Illinois ist he Ravinia Festival.  There is a strong commitment to community outreach and education  that enriches life for locals and visitors alike.  The Reach*Teach*Play Education Programs  reflect the festival's mission and contributions.  Enjoy many concerts throughout the summer by either buying Pavilion Tickets or grab a blanket and a picnic basket and buy Lawn Tickets. 

Tickets are available for sale and there are quite a few great shows lined up for this summer.  I personally can't wait to get tickets to several concerts. Steely Dan, Bo Dean's and Go Go's/B-52's are a few that I hope to see.

Click here  for the full Ravinia Festival 2011 schedule.  Other things to check out on the Ravinia Festival website is special values like the Classical Grass Pass  for classical lovers, the Kraft Kids Concert 10-Punch Lawn Pass and the free lawn passes for college and High School students.  

See you at the Festival!

The above article.Ravinia Festival some great concerts during the 2011 season, was written by Noah Levy -  an active  REALTOR  assisting buyers and sellers with their real estate needs.

North Shore 1/2 Marathon and 5k returns to Highland Park IL

Highland Park, Illinois- The City of Highland Park and the Downtown Alliance are excited to welcome race participants to the 33rd Annual Misericordia Heart of Mercy North Shore Half-Marathon and 5k Charity Run on Sunday, June 12, 2011.  Registration is available on line. All registrants will receive a t-shirt and baseball hat when they pick up their packet.

The 5k and half-marathon, sponsored by Running Away Multisport (RAM Racing), are scheduled to begin at 7:15 a.m. and 7:30 a.m., respectively. Both races will run concurrent with each other. This runner-friendly event is anticipated to attract approximately 5,000 participants. For the past few years several of my clients have participated in this event.  This is a a great event for beginner and advanced runners. Both routes will begin on St. Johns Avenue at Park Avenue and head south. Participants will continue to make their way on this new and improved route through the historic and scenic streets
of Highland Park.

A post race party will conclude the day's events, featuring live local entertainment. Breakfast will be served to all participants, at the post race party, including: pancakes, french toast, sausage and bananas.

Participants and visitors can continue to enjoy the downtown atmosphere with ample public parking,
shopping and retail opportunities available throughout the weekend.
Highland Park police officers will be utilized for traffic control to ensure pedestrian and motorist
safety. Event Marshals will be deployed throughout the route to provide direction and support to
participants. This event will require the temporary closure of streets and public parking lot at St. Johns
and Park Avenue.

RAM Racing will donate $5 from every 1/2 marathon registration to Misericordia Heart of Mercy,
home to 550 children and adults challenged by mental and physical disabilities.

The above article, North Shore 1/2 Marathon and 5k returns to Highland Park IL, was written by Noah Levy - A REALTOR assisting buyers and sellers with their real estate needs along Chicago's North Shore suburbs,

Free Spring Clean-Up Program for the city of Highland Park  IL- It's that time of the year again!

Veolia Environmental Waste Services will be conducting their annual Spring Clean-Up Program for the City of Highland Park on four consecutive Saturdays, beginning April 30 and ending May 21.  This is a great  opportunity for Highland Park Residents  to declutter and get rid of their  JUNK.  Every year it amazes me how much "stuff" we accumulate to put out at the curb. This year will be a big declutter year for us from a trampoline to a couch to many other knick knacks - it's the perfect time to purge!

As an REALTOR in Highland Park IL - I know that the annual Spring Clean-Up Program is fabulous for those who are selling a home and for those who  have bought a home.  I actually just reminded one of my clients who has been living in their home for over twenty years to take advantage of the special pick up - IT IS FREE!!!  For those of you who are thinking about moving it is a great time to get rid of all of the things that you have kept throughout the years that you no longer need.  For the buyers who have just moved in - get rid of the boxes and wrapping supplies and of course "those extras" that you have no idea why you actually took with you from your last home.

Items for collection may be placed at the curb up to seven days prior to the collection date, but residents are encouraged to set out items as close to their collection day as is convenient. Often times, your garbage is taken prior to the actual Spring Clean-Up day by people who are driving/walking by your home.  As it is said "One Man's trash is another Man's treasure!"  

In order to guarantee collection, all items for collection must be placed at the curb by no later than 7:00 a.m. on the scheduled collection day.   Spring Clean-Up will coincide with residents primary garbage collection day (the primary collection day is the day when both garbage and recycling are collected).                                        

                                  AREA COLLECTION DAY SPRING PICK-UP DAY
                                             SE MONDAY Saturday, April 30
                                             SW TUESDAY Saturday, May 7
                                             NE THURSDAY Saturday, May 14
                                             NW FRIDAY Saturday, May 21

If you are planning on getting rid of old appliances be sure to call Veolia Environmental Waste Services ahead of time.  A special number has been set up for appliance pick-up: 1-800-480-4337.  Also, Veolia will not pick up the following items:  Regular garbage; yard waste: debris from landscapers, tree trimmers, or contractors: demolition material from fences, roofs, or exterior building debris: rubber tires: batteries: and oil and household hazardous wastes, such as paint, pesticides, or pool chemicals.

Don't forget - this is an annual FREE PICK-UP which is  offered by Veolia Environmental Waste Services  - take advantage it!  Your home will thank you for decluttering!

The above article, Free Spring Clean-Up Program for the City of Highland Park - It's that time of the Year, was written by Noah Levy - A REALTOR assisting buyers and sellers in Highland Park, IL and other surrounding North Shore Suburbs.

Cafe Buongiorno in Winnetka Illinois One of My Favorite Spots on Chicago's North Shore.

Situated in the Laundry Building in Winnetka this small eatery serves breakfast and lunch only.  This is one of my favorite spots to meet friends or clients. Mary Jo and Themis, the owners, are always there to greet you. If you frequent there more than a few times Mary Jo will greet you by name.

The service is always great and the food is that is served in made from scratch.  Terrific and creative omelets for breakfast, if you prefer  an egg white omelet just ask.  The homemade soups are divine - my favorite is the butternut squash. Great sandwiches and salads too - I suggest the Greek Salad.

The last time I was there, I just picked up a of bowl of soup to go. If you are having a busy day and are looking for something to pick up for yourself or the whole family this is a great carry out option too. You can always call ahead 847.784.8899 and they will have your order ready.

Cafe Buongiorno is located at 566 Chestnut Street in Winnetka - Check it out for yourself you'll be glad you did.

The above article, Cafe Buongiorno in Winnetka Illinois One of My Favorite Spots on Chicago's North Shore, was written by Noah Levy - A REALTOR assisting buyers and sellers along Chicago's North Shore.

Footloose is coming to Highland Park High School in Highland Park IL in February.

This year's Musical at Highland Park High School is Footloose.  This musical production is about a boy who moves from Chicago to a small farm town.  When Ren, the teenage boy, arrives to his new town he realizes that many things are different in this small town.  The major difference is that he has moved to a town where rock music and dancing are illegal. Come see  Ren's courage and determination and what he does  to transform this small farm town.

This fabulous HPHS production is right around the corner - February 10-12, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. The cost per ticket is $10.00.  Tickets can be reserved from January 31-February 6 by calling the ticket hot line (224)765-2386.

Don't miss this wonderful production - I'm looking forward to attending and seeing the talent of the High School students - many which I know. 

The above article, Footloose is coming to Highland Park High School in Highland Park IL in February, was written by Noah Levy - a REALTOR assisting Buyers and Sellers with their Real Estate needs.