🌱 Green Block Party Sign-Ups + Trailside Museum Of Natural History

Hello, friends. It's me, Nicole Fallon-Peek, your host of the Oak Park-River Forest Patch newsletter — back in your inbox with everything you need to know about what's happening in town.

But first, today's weather:

A stray afternoon t-shower. High: 87 Low: 65.

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

1. The Forest Preserves of Cook County Nature Centers, including the Trailside Museum of Natural History in River Forest, offer free and engaging activities for families. With year-round events, classes, and hands-on learning experiences, the Nature Centers provide opportunities for children to connect with and explore their local environment. The centers feature indoor and outdoor activities, live animal exhibits, inclusive programming, and unique play spaces, fostering a love for nature and outdoor exploration in children. (Chicago Parent)
2. Oak Park residents can now sign up to host a Green Block Party. The Village of Oak Park will provide boxes for residents to separate trash and recycling. Residents can also request kid-friendly activities for the party that will be provided by Green Community Connections. Click here to learn more or to sign up to host a Green Block Party in your neighborhood. (Village of Oak Park, Illinois via Facebook)
3. Riveredge Hospital in River Forest offers an Adult Art Therapy Group on Tuesday evenings, providing a platform for self-expression, creativity, and community support. The group welcomes individuals aged 18 and above who are interested in exploring art as a therapeutic outlet. To obtain further information or to schedule an outpatient assessment, interested individuals can contact Riveredge Hospital at 708-209-4145. (River Forest Township via Facebook)

Here's to the great local businesses who sponsor this newsletter. Check out what they can do for you:

• Have you or a loved one been a victim of sexual abuse? Attorney Tod M. Urban is a survivor of abuse himself who can help you understand your options. After 35 years as a prominent criminal defense attorney, Tod has focused his practice on helping others who have shared his experience. He’s compassionate and has deep expertise in navigating the legal complexities required to get justice and peace of mind. Visit here to learn more or call for conversation today.

• YogaSix Oak Park Celebrates Two Years with Free Flow Weeks! Join YogaSix from Jul. 17 - 31 for a special week of themed classes and raffle prizes to celebrate two years as part of the Oak Park community. First time visitors and non-members can take up to three free classes. Come for yoga and stay for the community. Click here to sign up for your three free classes today. Book soon - classes are filling up fast!

Want to see your business featured in this spot? Click here to get started.

Today in Oak Park-River Forest:

Tuesday, July 11

• Baby Lapsit At Oak Park Library (11:00 AM)
• Oak Park Mindfulness Group At Scoville Park (6:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• Reminder: Join the Oak Park community for a fun summer run on Jul. 15! A certified coach will guide you through a warm-up and offer options for a one, two, or three-mile walk or jog. After the run, cool down and enjoy the farmer's market. Your first class or run with FIT4MOM is free, and partners can join for free with a signed waiver. You can sign up here! (Oak Park Farmers Market via Facebook)
• Are you considering going solar? Join in on a free solar presentation on Jul. 12 at Oak Park Library (Dole Branch) at 6:30 p.m. (Village of Oak Park, Illinois via Facebook)
• On Jul. 13 The Park District of Oak Park will be hosting a job fair from 1:00-6:00 p.m. Learn more at the link. (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:

• Prime Day Is Happening Now — Shop & Save! (July 12)
• Mutt Strut Virtual 5k Run/Walk (July 14)
• Grace Strawberry Festival (July 15)
• Add your event

For sale:

• All One Up and Live Savers on Patch (Details)
• Add your item

Alrighty, you're all good for today. I'll see you back in your inbox tomorrow morning with a new 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.