Northbrook Welcomes Bikers

Northbrook is requiring local builders to install bike racks and other cyclist-friendly features.

James Karagianis, decided to implement a biker friendly atmosphere despite saddling developers with new regulations and more costs during tough economic times, recognizing that more people will be riding bikes in the future.

In a proposal submitted in September, Northbrook’s Bike Task Force recommended a bike parking space requirement that would be tied to the size of new development and redevelopment. The Village Board recognized this need and made it mandatory for all businesses to install them based on the demand.

Thrilled about the new racks, Rob Sadowsky, executive director of the Chicago-based Active Transportation alliance, said “his bicycling advocacy group encourages villages to create bike requirements or incentives, some communities allow developers to build higher density housing complexes for example, in exchange for including bike-friendly amenities.”

“It’s specifically great when you have a central business district,” said Sadowsky. “Having adequate bike parking and access will encourage more people to shop in Northbrook”. Overall bike use in the U.S. is up because of factors of such high gas process and growing concerns about health and environmental well-being. Northbrook is taking huge steps in the right direction and is setting a great example for other communities to follow.

Demanding First Wax Family

Madame Tussauds in New York has unveiled a wax figure of Michelle Obama alongside her wax counterpart President Barack Obama whose figure was unveiled later this year. She hs shrouded in a one-shouldered gown inspired by the one she wore to the inaugural ball.

The museum says that Michelle Obama will be clad in a mint-green skirt and an embellished cream cardigan. The president will get a business suit. Madame Tussauds is the third museum to feature the president and first lady.

Chicagoains are outraged that the wax figures have not graced the city of the Obama’s long time residence and are demanding a set of wax figures be delivered to the local museum. The Chicago Historical Society has issued a public announcement to sign a proposal requesting artists to create a wax replica of the entire first family here in Chicago.

CTA Says J slash K

No need to cozy up to your fellow CTA travelers. The Chicago Transit Authority has revoked its warning that the raft of service cuts on buses and trains has ended. As of February 7, there is no longer a need to curtail the 119 bus routes and 7 rail lines as the Union has come up with the 95 million dollars as a ‘thank you’ gift to the public. None of the 90% unionized employees will lose their job and the bus service will remain on schedule.