Wednesday, November 27, 2024

Dear River Forest residents,

Thank you to all who took the time to attend last weekend’s “Casual Conversation event.” We had a great turnout, and I was thrilled to be able to meet with residents to answer any questions and discuss any concerns. Please keep an eye on the future date in February 2025 for this quarterly event!

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I’d like to thank everyone who has contributed to the vibrancy of our community. This includes our Village staff for their work, along with our Village Board of Trustees who spend countless hours guiding our community. I’d also like to acknowledge our commission and committee members - who volunteer a great deal of their time and expertise for the betterment of River Forest - as well as all the organizations that serve our residents, including our schools, the Park District, Township, and the Library, along with our local businesses that enhance commerce and enrich our community. I would also like to thank our residents for choosing to make River Forest your home. 

Please consider supporting our local businesses for Small Business Saturday (November 30) and discover the charming and unique local shops and boutiques, as well as restaurants in River Forest. When you spend $100 at a local small business, an impressive $68 stays in our community, which helps to fund vital community services and strengthens our local economy. Compare that to $14 that comes back to River Forest when you shop at regional chains or just $1 if you shop online. You can view the full list of River Forest businesses here.



I hope everyone has a safe and happy Thanksgiving filled with gratitude, community, and togetherness! Please note: Village offices will be closed tomorrow, November 28 and Friday, November 29 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.

Sincerely,

Overnight Parking Ban Lifted

In observance of the Thanksgiving holiday, the Village’s Overnight Parking Ban will be temporarily lifted from now through Monday, December 2 at 9 a.m. During this period, no overnight parking waivers will be required. However, please remember that parking is prohibited on any Village street when two inches or more of snow has accumulated, and for up to eight hours after the snowfall ends, to ensure snow plows can safely clear the roads and Police and Fire Department vehicles can quickly and also safely respond to emergency calls. Thank you in advance for your cooperation!

HPC Awards Part 3

Step back in time and uncover the charm of River Forest’s historic homes with our special video series on the Village’s YouTube channel. Created in collaboration with the Historic Preservation Commission, each installment highlights the unique history and architecture of approximately eight homes in the Village.



The first two videos highlighted some beautiful properties, and more are available in the third chapter of this four-part series! Want to catch up or enjoy the entire collection? Click here to watch all the videos, and be sure to subscribe to the Village’s YouTube channel.

Toys for Tots Drive

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices in River Forest is an official drop-off location for the Toys for Tots program this holiday season. You can donate new and unwrapped toys for in-need children now through Friday, December 6. Toys can be dropped off between 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. For additional drop off locations or to learn more, click here.

Holiday Light Recycling

The Village continues to partner with Elgin Recycling Inc. to easily dispose of old and unusable holiday lights.  Residents can drop off working and non-working lights and cords for recycling in a receptacle clearly marked for this purpose behind Village Hall under the train overpass that will be available through January 15, 2025. Items that will not be accepted include: live trees, artificial trees, live greens, wreaths, garland, ornaments, figurines, and inflatables. For additional information, click here. 

Elgin Recycling takes the lights and cords and separates the strands. These items are then sent to be chopped or shredded and sold as a commodity to foundries and mills across the country. Please note: no other electronics are accepted as part of this collection.

Elevate Physical Therapy and Fitness is proudly owned and operated by experienced physical therapists who specialize in personalized, one-on-one care for orthopedic and pelvic health conditions. Committed to expert attention and tailored treatment, they create a supportive and welcoming environment to help patients heal and recover. To learn more or schedule an appointment, click here.



Please support local businesses whenever possible! If you have a business located in River Forest with a valid business license, it can be featured in the Village’s business spotlight. If you’d like your business to be featured, please send us an email. You can find a listing of River Forest businesses on the Village’s Shop River Forest website.

Village of River Forest

400 Park Avenue

River Forest, Illinois 60305

708-366-8500

vrf.us