The Lighthouse Keeper sees…

… that Evanston Parks and Recreation has asked residents for help tracking Billy the Gnome, who has been on the roam since March 7. Follow the clues shared by Evanston Parks and Rec staff, take a selfie with Billy by March 18 and submit your photos to eeichholz@cityofevanston.org by March 21 to be entered in a raffle for prizes.

… that a google search of “do gnomes live in trees” leads to substantial evidence of the importance of trees to these mythical creatures, leading the Lighthouse Keeper to wonder if Billy the Gnome is roaming due to habitat loss.

Alerted by a reader, the Lighthouse Keeper saw…

The 1400 block of Emerson on Tuesday, March 8. (RoundTable photo)

… that several extremely large trees were cut down in the 1400 block of Emerson last week. In response to an inquiry, Michael Callahan, Evanston’s Arborist and Forestry Supervisor explained, “It is my understanding that demolition is planned for seven vacant properties.”

The 1400 block of Emerson, viewed from the alley, through a narrow gap in the fence on Monday, March 14. (RoundTable photo)

… that the entire area is now surrounded by a large fence and many of the stumps have been reduced to wood chips. The Lighthouse Keeper’s follow-up question about plans for the site and the need to destroy so many old trees has not yet been answered.

… that readers who are concerned about habitats for gnomes, butterflies, humans and other living things in Evanston can support District 65’s PTA Equity Project Plant Sale. The sale “features native flowers, shrubs, and trees that are suited to our local ecosystem and especially selected for their ability to support pollinators, birds and other wildlife.” Proceeds go to the PEP fund, which “equitably distributes PTA funds across the district so that all students can access important enrichment and community-building opportunities that PTAs provide, regardless of the school they attend.”

The Lighthouse Keeper hears …

… that Spring Bulk Trash Pickup begins on April 1. Bulk trash pickup for residents whose normal refuse collection day is:

•            Tuesday will be Friday, April 1

•            Wednesday will be Friday, April 8

•            Thursday will be Friday, April 15

•            Monday will be Friday, April 22

… that the Illinois Primary has moved from March to June this year.

… that a candidate for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District needs 5,700 signatures to get on the ballot in Cook County. A candidate for governor needs 3,250.

The Lighthouse Keeper reminds readers to register to vote, support your local media and send any questions, concerns or tips to lk@evanstonroundtable.com.

Lighthouse Keeper

The RoundTable's Lighthouse Keeper pays homage to Evanston's iconic symbol, shining a light on items that might not otherwise make news. Send your questions, concerns or tips to lk@evanstonroundtable.com.

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  1. The removal of many Historic 5th Ward Trees on Emerson Street is outrages. Once I saw the remains of the trees and how they were cut down, I complained to Council Member Burns and other Evanston Citizens that appreciate the value of our large trees. It’s greediness to develop property on this side of town ( lower cost property) without finding ways to build with plans including the existing trees.

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