ENDORSED BY COMMUNITY VOICES
Ann Tennes has our strong endorsement for Skokie mayor! Her experience with Village operations, her track record of working shoulder-to-shoulder with everyone on difficult Village projects for the betterment of Skokie, and her willingness to listen will make her an excellent leader for the community. Ann’s ability to lead during a crisis has been evident time and again during her years with the Village, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
skokie firefighters
union local 3033
“In this election, Skokie has the potential to elect six new trustees and a new clerk. Skokie will need a mayor with institutional village experience to help lead this newly formed Village Board into the future. No other mayoral candidate has Ann’s experience in local government and community engagement. She’s the right person for this job!”
mike lynk
Skokie Appearance Commission Chairman; Skokie Resident
“I have known Ann Tennes for a long time, first as a student in my class at Columbia College, Chicago, and later as an intern on my radio show. I worked closely with Ann when I chaired the Center East Authority Board at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie. Ann is highly qualified to be the next Skokie mayor and, most importantly, she is a very nice person.”
dave baum
Former Chair of the Center East Authority Board at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts; Retired Chicago Radio Personality; Skokie Resident
“Ann has my full support to be Skokie’s next mayor. I’ve seen first-hand how she brings people with differing opinions together, leading discussions on challenging issues to find common ground and build consensus. Her experience with public safety is unparalleled, and I know she’ll make smart decisions that make all Skokie residents safer.”
will evans
Chair of the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners; Former Chair of the Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board; Former Chair of People’s Gas and the Illinois Tollway Authority; Skokie Resident
“I support Ann for Skokie mayor because she has a deep understanding of the issues facing Skokie, and a strong commitment to bringing the community together to solve problems and move forward. She is thoughtful, experienced, and has great leadership skills.”
andi rosen
Former District 73.5 School Board Member; Skokie Resident
I have known Ann Tennes for over 30 years. As Village Manager of Skokie from 1997-2014, I worked with Ann on dozens of projects and issues. She is collaborative, very articulate, forward thinking, ethical and a team player. Her ability to gather opinions and viewpoints, and then gather the resources needed to accomplish a common goal or mission is outstanding.
She brings an attitude of care and empathy to all those with whom she collaborates! Her knowledge of local government and regional government is remarkable
al rigoni
retired skokie village manager
skokie valley rotary club member
skokie resident
"She is the perfect combination of institutional experience, personal compassion, and commitment to ethical standards."
SHEILA MEYER
skokie resident
“I am supporting Ann for Skokie Mayor because she has already made huge improvements to the Skokie area as a resident and I can’t wait to see what she can accomplish as mayor.”
megan bunimovich
skokie resident
“I have known and worked with Ann Tennes, and her husband Howard, for 25+ years. Ann has always been approachable and willing to listen, open to ideas, very detailed, and has a plethora of knowledge about running a municipality. She has my support and I look forward to her leadership for the Village of Skokie candidate has Ann’s experience in local government and community engagement. She’s the right person for this job!”
abby polin
Skokie Resident
“Ann Tennes is a proven leader with a deep commitment to the Village of Skokie, bringing years of experience in public service and a vision for inclusive growth. Her dedication to fostering a vibrant, diverse community and prioritizing sustainability and economic development makes her the ideal candidate to guide Skokie into the future. Ann's collaborative approach and ability to listen to residents' needs ensure that she will represent the best interests of all who call Skokie home.”
Alen Takhsh
immigration attorney
skokie community foundation board member
skokie resident
I have known Ann Tennes for over 30 years. As Village Manager of Skokie from 1997-2014, I worked with Ann on dozens of projects and issues. She is collaborative, very articulate, forward thinking, ethical and a team player. Her ability to gather opinions and viewpoints, and then gather the resources needed to accomplish a common goal or mission is outstanding.
She brings an attitude of care and empathy to all those with whom she collaborates! Her knowledge of local government and regional government is remarkable
al rigoni
retired skokie village manager
skokie valley rotary club member
skokie resident
"Ann Tennes and I have been colleagues for over 25 years. She has always brought a calm sensibility to discussions and has a deep passion for working through complex issues to get to the right answers.
Ann is a thoughtful, trustworthy and compassionate person who is extremely knowledgeable and experienced regarding Skokie government and the concerns of its residents, businesses and visitors. She seeks out differing points of view and listens. She weighs the perspectives of everyone to reach reasonable conclusions and best courses of action. She is a genuine and articulate communicator.
She is level-headed, organized and a person of utmost integrity. She really cares about Skokie and the people who live here. As a former employee of the Village and ranking member of several Boards and Commissions, her knowledge-based, fiscally conservative approach works in the best interests of the community.
Ann Tennes has a proven track record of accomplishments, skills and knowledge which is why she should be elected to serve as the next Mayor of Skokie. Her strong leadership will meet the challenging demands of the position."
anthony scarpelli
former skokie chief of police
skokie valley kiwanis club member
“I am supporting Ann for Skokie mayor because of her practical and expansive experience, her understanding of Skokie's current strengths and challenges, and her realistic and hopeful vision for Skokie’s future.”
Sheila Crumrine
Skokie Human Relations Commission Member; Skokie Resident
“I am supporting Ann for Skokie mayor because she has the qualifications and passion to make positive changes in our Village. I feel like she will listen to our concerns and make Skokie an even better place to live!”
sheryl bloom
Human Relations Commission Member; Skokie Resident
“I support Ann for mayor, as Skokie deserves to have a strong, competent leader who will ensure the voices of all Skokie residents will be heard.“
Heather Vezner
skokie resident
“Ann will be able to make a positive change in Skokie, and will be inclusive and supportive of all residents.”
debbie rudnik
School Teacher; Skokie Resident
Kneads and Wants Bakery is proud to endorse Ann Tennes for Mayor of Skokie. As a small, family-owned business that opened just before the COVID-19 pandemic, we faced incredible challenges in our early days. Ann, in her role as Communications Director for the Village of Skokie, was an invaluable resource during that time.
Her clear communication, unwavering support, and tireless advocacy for small businesses helped us navigate the uncertainty of the pandemic. From sharing vital resources to ensuring local businesses felt heard and supported, Ann exemplified what it means to lead with compassion and dedication.
Ann’s commitment to fostering a strong, resilient community is unmatched. We know she will continue to champion small businesses and work tirelessly to make Skokie a thriving, inclusive place for all. We wholeheartedly support Ann Tennes for Mayor and look forward to the bright future her leadership will bring to our village.
Maria Kozi and Dylan Kafizov
owners of Kneads & Wants Artisan Bakery and Cafe
“I strongly support Ann Tennes for Skokie mayor. Ann has unique experience with the Village of Skokie to give her knowledge and insights into how things work. She brings this experience with a fresh perspective and genuine desire to bring people together. Ann has already done a great deal of outreach to many communities within Skokie.”
margy roberts
skokie resident
“I support Ann for Skokie mayor because I care about this community, especially the most vulnerable, including our immigrant and low-income neighbors…I am hopeful that Ann will truly listen to what our community needs and what would benefit those that need it most…I am excited at the possibility of having a woman in office and look forward to the positive changes to come!”
Monica Chavez
skokie resident
“I have known Ann for a long time being my neighbor but I have also known how good a public servant she is when it comes to serving Skokie. I have lived here in Skokie for a long time, since June 1985. Ann is very reliable and would do whatever she has promised, guaranteed! She has a strong sense of community service and loves Skokie. She’s a great neighbor and I’m sure will be a great mayor.”
maria sison
Pediatric Nurse; Skokie Resident
“Ann Tennes is a wonderful candidate for Mayor of Skokie. Ann is a very caring and involved leader in our community. Ann's qualities and experience makes her an ideal Mayor for Skokie.”
fernanda perez
school district 69 board secretary
skokie united founding member
skokie community foundation board secretary
life-long skokie resident
"I am proud to endorse Ann Tennes for Mayor of Skokie. Ann has demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision, and a deep commitment to our community throughout her years of service. She has consistently championed initiatives that enhance the quality of life for all Skokie residents, from fostering economic development and supporting local businesses to prioritizing sustainability and inclusivity.
Ann’s ability to listen, collaborate, and find innovative solutions to complex challenges sets her apart as a true leader. Her dedication to transparency and her unwavering focus on making Skokie a vibrant, welcoming, and forward-thinking village make her the clear choice for mayor.
I trust Ann to guide Skokie into a future that honors our rich history while embracing new opportunities. Please join me in supporting Ann Tennes for Mayor—together, we can continue to make Skokie a place we’re all proud to call home."
Madeleine England
President, Downtown Skokie Merchants Collaborative
and 40-year Skokie resident
“I support Ann Tennes! She is my candidate for Mayor of the Village of Skokie. I have experience working with her here in Skokie, and she made it clear that she cares about all members of our community. Vote early for Ann on March 17 to support the entire community. Save the date!!”
brian williams
father and community contributor
skokie resident
“Ann Tennes has the experience and dedication to be Mayor of Skokie. Her education, background, and history of public service is exactly what we need to bring positive change and progress to our village.”
jimmy gonzalez vicker
skokie telecommunications and technology
commission member
skokie resident
“I highly and unequivocally recommend Ann Tennes for Skokie Mayor. She and her team of community volunteers make Skokie a welcoming place where emotional, economical, spiritual and linguistic needs are met to help everyone thrive. Ann's secret is that she has coffee with everyone! She actively listens and has the community connections to make community joy and togetherness happen.
I first met Ann 10 years ago when I was a volunteer at Skokie Consumer Affairs Commission. She has extensive marketing expertise and knows how to handle Skokie's crises and celebrations with grace. She understands the complexities of education as a former Oakton College board member. Her work experience on the mayor's council uniquely positions her to understand the economic needs of Skokie. Please vote for Ann Tennes for Skokie mayor.”
elana jacobs, MEd
d219 school board member
d73.5 school board candidate
skokie resident
“I support Ann for Skokie mayor because I care about this community, especially the most vulnerable, including our immigrant and low-income neighbors. I am angry at the village board who seem to make decisions that only benefit a select few. I am fed up with how they seem to go against what the people want, whether it's agreeing to projects like the Carvana tower or large, luxury housing projects without holding developers accountable to the affordable housing policies agreed to by the Village commission. I am hopeful that Ann will truly listen to what our community needs and what would benefit those that need it most, without pandering to large outside companies that couldn’t care less about Skokie. I am excited at the possibility of having a woman in office and look forward to the positive changes to come!”
monica chavez
skokie resident
It is my supreme pleasure and with pride that I write this letter of endorsement for Ann Tennes as she seeks the position of Mayor of Skokie. Ann exemplifies the qualities essential for holding the esteemed position of Mayor. From the beginning of her campaign, Ann showed her independence by choosing her own path, and listening to the residents of Skokie to identify the issues that matter most to them. She has stayed true to herself, a rare quality that is often lacking in politicians.
I can truly say with full conviction, that Ann Tennes is a person of her word. Over the 15 years that I have known Ann, she has held several positions in municipal government and her clear, forward-thinking vision for Skokie’s future makes her a qualified candidate. Her dedication to critical issues such as economic development, public safety and education only strengthens her ability to lead Skokie into the future. Ann is the leader Skokie needs!
As a friend and community member, I have witnessed Ann’s strong leadership, her ability to unite people, and her genuine passion for making Skokie a better place. Most importantly, her love for the people of Skokie will make her a Mayor for the future.
I am proud to offer my endorsement and confident that Ann will be an exceptional Mayor for the Village of Skokie!
Alyse Cohen burman
education foundation serving the student of niles township board chair
skokie chamber of commerce board member
skokie resident
“I’m the former owner of Skokie Paint in downtown Skokie. During this time I had the frequent occasion of mingling with Ann Tennes at various local business meetings, as she supported all of us in her efforts to bring more business to downtown Skokie. Her energy, endless creativity and proven leadership would be a definite asset for Skokie.
I truly don’t believe anyone would work harder to achieve those goals. I think she’d make a great mayor and will absolutely have my vote this April.”
steven hochwert
former owner, skokie paint
skokie resident
“Ann is, by far, the best qualified candidate for mayor. Her 20 plus years of experience in local government, her deep knowledge of Skokie and the Village’s operations, and her ability to work with all groups in the Village give her the capacity to hit the ground running and get things done.
She is a person of integrity, a good listener and a leader that includes and unites people. She will be an excellent mayor for all Skokie residents.”
fernanda perez
former skokie village trustee
turning point behavioral services
board chairman
skokie community foundation board member
skokie resident
“Ann is truly an outstanding and supportive member of our Skokie community. Her leadership at various community events and in several community organizations demonstrates her ability to connect with a wide variety of groups and neighborhoods. As a community leader myself, I value the enthusiasm and commitment with which Ann makes to our Skokie community and beyond.”
sabrina ehmke
skokie resident
“I have known Ann Tennes for years, and I cannot think of a better person to be Mayor of Skokie. Ann understands how an outstanding municipality works and is prepared to start working on day one in the Mayor’s office!
No learning curve needed!
It’s my privilege to endorse Ann!”
marilyn d. glazer
retired niles township government supervisor
“Ann is the right person to serve as Mayor of Skokie! She is not afraid to get her hands dirty and is always working to improve our community!.”
wendy singer
no shame on u executive director
skokie resident
“I have known Ann for a long time being my neighbor but I have also known how good a public servant she is when it comes to serving Skokie. I have lived here in Skokie for a long time, since June 1985. Ann is very reliable and would do whatever she has promised, guaranteed! She has a strong sense of community service and loves Skokie. She’s a great neighbor and I’m sure will be a great mayor.”
maria sison
pediatric nurse
skokie resident
I’m endorsing Ann Tennes for Mayor of Skokie because of her extensive administrative experience and leadership quality. I’ve known Ann for many years and I have seen her ability to lead and perform. Her background is most commendable which includes public service and administrative duties with the Village of Skokie.
I know she is a proponent of inclusivity and welcomes all to the table. Ann is very qualified to lead the Village and tackle challenges.
ferdinand p. soco
skokie board of fire & police commissioner
past chair, skokie beautification & improvement commission
philippine engineers & scientist organization (peso) lifetime member