SummerFest 2010 was a great success and, as in years past, it is thanks to supporters like you.  

As you know, SummerFest is the Forest Park chamber’s largest fundraiser. It allows us to continue the good work of supporting residential and business members, and is useful in attracting new ones. Our fundraising also allows us to host future community events, such as Arts Fest and the Holiday Walk, which are huge draws to Madison Stree businesses – and are provided at no cost to the public. It has been estimated that over 8,000 visitors came to Forest Park to discover the shopping and dining, and to enjoy our wonderful village.

While the weather is always a gamble, our rain-or-shine attitude has served us well. From time to time, we run into a minor issue, but the committee is always able to work with local businesses and the local authorities to keep everything running smoothly.

This is a personal note to thank you for your donations, participation and support.  This family festival would not be possible without a great number of people – the SummerFest committee, the board members and their families who volunteer, the volunteers who donate their time and energy just because they love Forest Park.  

We must acknowledge the Village of Forest Park for donating services, the Forest Park Police Department and auxiliary, the Forest Park Fire Department and Forest Park Public Works crews, who put in long hours to keep Madison Street clean and safe.  

Special thanks to Mayor Calderone, sponsor of the Jesse White Tumblers, a Saturday crowd favorite.

It is still my conviction that SummerFest is a tremendous marketing opportunity. Summerfestfp.com had over 40,000 hits in the months of May and June. This proves the level of interest we have generated.  Take a minute to look at the Web site and imagine what kind of exposure you could receive and make it work to your advantage. It is only the third year we’ve had summerfestfp.com up and running and it has been an excellent asset. Be sure to visit the merchants listed on the Web site. They are the ones who sponsor this free festival – and be sure to shop, eat and drink in those businesses!

Again, thank you for your support of SummerFest. We couldn’t do it with out you!

Cec Hardacker
Chamber president