<h1 style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">Skokie, <em>Chicago</em></h1>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span lang="en-JM">Skokie is a flourishing suburban community situated about sixteen miles to the northwest of downtown Chicago. The community is recognized by leading publications as among the best places to live.</span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The community attained village status under the name Niles Centre in the year 1888. However, that name was abandoned and changed to Skokie in the year 1940 by public vote. Skokie grew speedily in the 1920s and this swift increase in growth was also seen in the 1940s subsequent to the World War. Today, Skokie exists as a diversified community.</p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Skokie has an extensive array of styles of architecture which encompasses apartments and bungalow style homes. The village also seeks to further improve its offering of houses. As is expected of a community emulating the urban life, Skokie&rsquo;s public and private schools are all highly regarded. The schools that serve the educational needs of the community&rsquo;s student population include the Niles West High School, noted as one of the best schools in the United States. Skokie&rsquo;s transportation system is also suitable to tourists and residents alike. Movement is facilitated by the CTA Yellow Line station and the Edens Expressway, situated in the western section of the community.</p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Westfield Old Orchard Mall one of the leading shopping centers located within the region is home to numerous restaurants, high end retailers and two movie theaters. Additionally, Skokie is home to a park district which is famous throughout the country. This park district offers special events and programs to residents of Skokie throughout the year, a highlight of which is the summer day camp.</p>