Thursday, August 19, 2021
Dear River Forest residents,

Preliminary data from the 2020 Census was recently released, and it shows that the population in River Forest has grown by 4.9% since the 2010 Census. This is great news for our Village and the reason why participation in the Census is so important. Not only does an accurate count ensure our community is fairly represented in both the State and Federal government, but also that funding for critical programs and services is available to us relative to our population. More of the latest information from the Census for River Forest can be found here. Census officials have stated additional information about how our community has changed over the last decade will be released by September 30. We will share that as soon as it is available. 

As our young people head back to school, please remember to be safe on the roadways and keep an eye out for school children and buses. Remember to never pass a school bus when the stop arm is extended, or when children are entering or exiting. Please also obey speed limits and refrain from using cell phones or other devices while in school zones - fines for these offenses have increased and individuals can actually lose their licenses for up to one year for violating laws in our school zones! Let’s work together to keep everyone safe.
 
Finally, whether they are starting school for the first time or heading off to college, I wish all River Forest students a very successful school year!

Sincerely,
Cathy Adduci, Village President
Village of River Forest
Boosters for COVID-19 Vaccine
Public health and medical experts from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the CDC and the FDA announced this week that pending final approval, third doses or 'boosters' for the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines will be offered starting the week of September 20 and given eight months after an individual’s second dose. Immunocompromised individuals are eligible now for a third dose; click here for more information. According to health organizations, boosters are needed because vaccine protection decreases over time.
River Forest Vaccination Rates
As positive COVID-19 cases continue to emerge across the state, the Cook County Department of Public Health and the Illinois Department of Public Health are encouraging residents to get vaccinated as the best line of defense against the virus and its variants. For common FAQs and resources related to the COVID-19 vaccines, click here.
 
Still need to get vaccinated? Both pre-scheduled and walk-in appointments continue to be available at several locations, and homebound suburban Cook County residents can learn more about how to receive the vaccine here. For the latest River Forest vaccine data, click here and select 'Data by Town'. To view percentages of fully vaccinated individuals across the state, click here. 
Vax Verify System
IDPH is launching a new immunization portal called Vax Verify, which will allow Illinois residents 18 years and older to check their COVID-19 vaccination record digitally. Users will have access to a digital copy of their vaccination record if their physical copy is lost, damaged or forgotten. In order to download proof of vaccination, residents must complete an online identification verification process provided by Experian®, to gain access to their immunization history. Individuals with common names may have to complete additional steps to prove their identities. To learn more, click here.
Village Awarded
ComEd Grant
The Village is excited to share it has been named a grant recipient of the annual ComEd Powering Safe Communities Program. This grant will support the installation of an electric vehicle charging station near River Forest’s Village Hall. Together with the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus, ComEd will award a total of $170,000 in grants across 20 public agencies that have initiatives to improve community safety and address essential community needs. To learn more, click here.
Protect Yourself Against West Nile Virus
According to the Desplaines Valley Mosquito Abatement District, several areas currently have increased levels of West Nile Virus within the adult mosquito population where transmission to humans is likely. Residents are encouraged to use a common-sense approach to avoid exposure to these mosquitoes and any potential mosquito-borne diseases. To learn more about how to avoid mosquitos and for tips to eliminate potential breeding sources around your home, click here.
One Off Hospitality Supper Club
One Off Hospitality Group is hosting Back to School weekly supper clubs on Thursdays from August 26 - September 9. These rounds of dinners will offer optional additional deli items for easy weekday lunch box prep, and the added bonus of 'heat & eat' entrees to stock the fridge for the week. Click here to view the restaurant lineup and menus, and to place orders. Returning customers - be sure to read about the Refer-a-Neighbor program!
American Rescue Plan Act Survey
The Village is assisting Cook County in promoting its survey on the use of the $1 billion in funds provided by the American Rescue Plan Act. Want to share your opinions with the County about which areas should be prioritized? Complete this survey by Tuesday, August 31.

Skincare Company Spa and Hair Salon has a friendly, professional staff that is trained, certified and licensed to give you the best in clinical skincare, using the most advanced and up-to-date techniques. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call (708) 366-8264 or click here, today!
Shop River Forest! Please support our 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!