🌱 Decision To Preserve Oak Park Village Hall + Cook Co. Jail Program

Hi all. I'm back in your inbox this warm morning to walk you through everything you need to know about what's happening these days in Oak Park-River Forest.

But first, today's weather:

Humid with partial sunshine. High: 86 Low: 68.

Here are the top three stories today in Oak Park-River Forest:

1. Responding to public outcry and community displeasure, the Oak Park village board has reversed its decision to demolish Oak Park Village Hall and is now focused on preserving the historic structure while updating it to modern standards. The decision to shift gears and explore preservation was prompted by strong community engagement and input, as well as concerns about the estimated $118 million cost of a new building. The village plans to work with architectural consulting firms, including FGM Architects, to assess the existing conditions, renovation feasibility, and preservation needs of the building, aiming for a comprehensive approach to address modernization while maintaining its historic significance. (Wednesday Journal)
2. Cook County jail detainees are engaging in candid discussions about substance abuse and its impact on their lives, taking part in programs like the Sheriff’s Men’s Addiction Recovery Treatment (SMART) and the "THRIVE" program for female detainees. With the opioid epidemic leading to rising overdose deaths, the SMART and THRIVE programs utilize medically-assisted treatment, such as methadone and buprenorphine, to combat addiction effectively. Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart emphasizes that detainees who complete these programs are significantly less likely to re-offend or return to jail due to substance abuse issues, highlighting their tangible success. (NBC Chicago)
3. The USPS is offering a $50,000 reward to aid the investigation and capture of the individuals involved in an armed robbery of a letter carrier in nearby Berwyn. The incident occurred on Home Avenue, and the suspects are described as armed and dangerous. A stolen silver Toyota Highlander with an Illinois license plate was used, and anyone with relevant information is urged to contact USPS at (877) 876-2455, referencing case number 4089614. (WGN TV Chicago)

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Today in Oak Park-River Forest:

Friday, August 4

• Take 'N' Makes At River Forest Public Library (All Day)
• Book Bike At Wonder Works Children's Museum (3:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Are you considering having a block party? Click here for tips and how to schedule one this season. (Village of Oak Park, Illinois via Facebook)
• Are you looking for a new family member with four paws? Check out pets looking for their "fur-ever" homes in the nearby Chicago area at the link! (WBBM)
• The Park District of Oak Park released its Fall/Winter Program Guide! Click here to see program offerings over the next few months. (Park District of Oak Park via Facebook)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured businesses:

• Laura Ruiz, REALTOR® at REALTY OF CHICAGO — (Visit website)
• Laurie Christofano, Realtor | RE/MAX In The Village — (Visit Website)
• Add your business here

Featured events:

• La Grange Endless Summerfest Aug. 4-6 (August 4)
• "Music to Dine by" with Doug Lalli at Tre Sorelle by Mancini (August 5)
• Malnati Brain Tumor Institute Summer Rooftop Celebration (August 30)
• Add your event

Alrighty, you're all caught up for today. See you all tomorrow morning for another update!

— Nicole Fallon-Peek

About me: Nicole Fallon-Peek is a journalist and copywriter with a degree in Media, Culture and Communication from New York University. She has served as a freelance reporter, managing editor, copy editor, and editorial director for a variety of B2B news outlets. She currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.