🌱 Cook Co. Storm Disaster Relief Available + Oak Park Home Awards

Good morning, friends! It's Friday in Oak Park-River Forest and I'm back in your inbox with everything you need to know about what's happening in the community.

But first, today's weather:

Mostly sunny. High: 80 Low: 60.

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

1. President Biden issued a disaster declaration for Cook County Tuesday following severe flooding over the summer where parts of the city saw nine inches of flooding. Chicago area residents can now apply for disaster relief funding—assistance includes grants for temporary housing and home repairs; low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses; and other programs designed to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. Officials are urging those affected to apply for aid immediately, citing the quicker turnaround for those who apply early—click the link to learn more about how to apply. (WTTW News)
2. The village of Oak Park annually acknowledges outstanding property stewardship through the Historic Preservation, Cavalcade of Pride, and Sustainability awards. These awards celebrate homeowners, organizations, and businesses committed to the preservation, aesthetic improvement, and sustainable practices. The Oak Park Community Design Commission oversees the Cavalcade of Pride Awards, honoring remarkable property maintenance and enhancement efforts, while the Oak Park Historic Preservation Commission recognizes achievements in historical site preservation and compatible development. The Oak Park Environment and Energy Commission present Sustainability Awards for exceptional contributions to climate action and equity-centered sustainability initiatives. Nominations for these awards are currently open, with specific criteria and deadlines outlined for each category. More details and the nomination process can be found on the village of Oak Park's official website. (Wednesday Journal)
3. On Wednesday, a man was found dead on the West Side of nearby Chaicago after being shot six times. Officers found the man late in the evening and transported him to Mount Sinai Hospital. He was unfortunately pronounced dead a short time later, and his identity has not yet been released by the Cook County medical examiner's office. (FOX 32 Chicago)

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Today in Oak Park-River Forest:

Friday, August 18

• Shake, Rattle & Read At Oak Park Public Library (10:30 AM)
• Film Screening: "Boyz n the Hood" At Oak Park Public Library (1:00 PM)
• Back-to-School Block Party At Oak Park Public Library (3:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Chicagoland's renowned Marriott Theatre is wrapping up summer 2023 with a production of "GYPSY", featuring Oak Park River Forest High School’s own Milla Liss. Previously seen in "The Sound of Music" at the same venue, Liss boasts impressive Chicago theatre credits and is affiliated with BRAVO Performing Arts and Ovation Academy. (Marriott Theatre)
• Could your local organization use a helping hand? If you have a service opportunity for a group of high school students willing to volunteer on Wed. Sep. 13, fill out this form or click the link for more info. (Oak Park and River Forest HS via Instagram)
• Back by popular demand, the Youth Mile race returns for the 47th annual Frank Lloyd Wright Races! Children aged 7-14 are encouraged to sign up. Register at the link for the race that will take place on Oct. 15. (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:

• Bridal Event (August 19)
• School of Rock Open House (August 20)
• Malnati Brain Tumor Institute Summer Rooftop Celebration (August 30)
• How To Protect Your Business: Avoiding 6 Common Mistakes (August 31)
• High Holiday Services 2023 (September 15)
• Add your event

You're officially in the loop for today. I'll see you around!

— 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.