Thursday, June 23, 2022
Dear River Forest residents,

I would like to thank everyone who came out to make the West Villages’ inaugural Juneteenth parade a success; the number of community residents who came out to show their support was inspiring. I would also like to recognize Congressman Danny Davis, State Senator Kimberly Lightford, Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi, Forest Park Mayor Rory Hoskins, Broadview Mayor Katrina Thompson, Oak Park Village President Vicki Scaman, Maywood Village President Nathaniel Booker, Bellwood Mayor Andre Harvey, and Riverside Village President Joseph Ballerine. This event wouldn’t have been possible without their support and participation!

Also, I am excited to announce that the Cross-Community Climate Collaborative (C4) launched earlier today at Triton College with a Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony. Read the Village Proclamation on C4 here. C4 is a collaboration among the Villages of River Forest, Broadview and Oak Park in an effort to reduce carbon emissions and share sustainability strategies. To read more about the initiative, click here. 
 
This summer, remember Flamingo Fridays - an initiative developed to encourage neighbors and residents to interact and have fun during summertime. Everyone is welcome and invited, and you can find more information here. This week’s host is Jenny and Mark Hosty. Please consider hosting - it is so easy and FUN.

Finally, don’t forget to vote this Election Day! Primary Day is Tuesday, June 28. To find your polling place, an early voting site or to view a sample ballot, visit the Cook County Board of Elections website.

Sincerely,
Cathy Adduci, Village President
Village of River Forest
Junior Citizens' Police Academy
The River Forest and Oak Park Police Departments have partnered for the annual Junior Citizens' Police Academy from Tuesday, July 25 - Friday, July 29. The Academy will be held from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. each day and will meet at the River Forest Police Department. This is a FREE program for children between the ages of 10-15 who live or go to school in Oak Park or River Forest. Residents interested in the program can apply at River Forest Village Hall or the Oak Park Police Department. For more information, email Officer Ben Ransom.
Fourth of July Safety
Did you know that the Fourth of July holiday period is traditionally the deadliest time of year on the roads due to intoxicated drivers? Leading up to the holiday, expect roadside safety checks and police patrols to ensure the roadways are safe and free of impaired drivers. And don’t forget to always arrange for a designated driver if planning to drink!
Village & Chamber Partnership
Time is running out to take advantage of complimentary six-month memberships for River Forest businesses wishing to join the Oak Park River Forest Chamber of Commerce this year! The memberships are provided by the Village in an effort to help support local small businesses. Call the Chamber at (708) 613-0550 or click here for more information.
Grading Permits
Don’t forget - some summer home improvement projects may require grading permits before getting started. View the Village’s Grading Permit requirements here, and apply for permits on the Village’s new online portal.
Community Herb Garden
Enjoy fresh herbs from the Community Herb Garden at the corner of Augusta Street and Keystone Avenue. The garden is for the enjoyment of residents who are invited to utilize its herbs for home cooking and personal use. This is a carry-in/carry-out site. Rules for the garden include removing no more than the top one-sixth of the plant, avoiding over-cutting the plants or cutting the plants to the ground, and harvesting only enough herbs for a three-day supply. For more information and a full list of garden rules, click here.
All Star Game
Last Friday, Police Officer Ben Ransom helped lend a hand to River Forest Youth Softball for their Pack the Park All Star Game national anthem. Congratulations to all baseball and softball players on a great season!
Looking for Ways to Save on Your Electricity Bill?
With the arrival of hot summer days and rising energy costs, ComEd is offering FREE energy assessments – in-person or virtually – which can help save money! The assessment includes recommendations for free or discounted energy saving products that work in homes, such as LED light bulbs, smart thermostats, water saving showerheads and faucet aerators, hot water pipe insulation, and advanced power strips. During in-person visits, the ComEd energy advisor may install the products for homeowners. It’s easy! To schedule a free assessment and get more information, click here.
Business Spotlight
Elizabeth Faith was established when the owner, Megan, was unable to find quality seasonal wreaths. After arranging flowers for years, she began creating wreaths that incorporated a great floral design. Elizabeth Faith wreaths are handmade and designed with the same craftsmanship as a beautiful floral arrangement. Because of the amount of attention to each wreath, they are only available by custom order. To learn more or place an order, visit elizabethfaith.com/home.
 
Please support local businesses whenever possible! You can find a listing of River Forest businesses on the Village’s website. If you’d like your business to be featured in the weekly Business Spotlight, please send us an email.
What's Happening in River Forest?

Visit the River Forest Community Calendar at rfhappenings.com
to find out, today!