Forestville the Good Life by Lucy Hardcastle - June 2019

It took me a while to feel like I belonged in Forestville. Decades spent heading east to work in Santa Rosa meant Forestville was for weekend errands. It was actually going to the Town Halls that got me interested in getting more out of my community. There I got to see how I fit in.

Last month’s Town Hall had 175 people show up to learn how together we can make our community safer. The Fire Department did an amazing job creating maps of all our neighborhoods, making it easier to break up into our own response groups right there. Turns out that’s the best way to prepare, with people who share your issues, concerns and even your backyards. If you weren’t there, I hope someone from your area knocks on your door and invites you to be part of the solution. Groups will start meeting at the fire station, or in living rooms. Call the Fire Department at 707 887-2212 if you want to be added to the list or start a neighborhood group of your own. A big shout out to Fire Chief Dave Franchesci for getting this going. He reminds us his men can’t be everywhere at once so make your plan accordingly. INFO: http://www.forestvillefire.org/

Attending the Youth Park BBQ is one of the best ways to see what Forestville is all about. June 1st and 2nd from 11 to 8 you’ll get treated to BBQ, bands, an old-fashioned carnival and, according to the signs around town, fabulous beans. Don’t miss the Pancake Breakfast early Saturday, June 1st from 8-9:30 at the Methodist Church right before the Downtown Parade. INFO: https://forestvilleyouthpark.org/

Next is Opening Day for the Farmer’s Market on Tuesday, June 4 from 4 to 7 pm. Supporting our Farmer’s Market is a great way to feel you are part of our community. Think farm fresh vegetables, fruit, live music, beer and wine, arts and crafts and of course, specialty foods and yummy stuff. Stop by on your way home. Take a break from cooking dinner and buy there. Or pick out what you will make for dinner. Either way, you can’t lose. INFO: https://www.forestvillefarmersmarket.com/

Another way to belong? Go to the Citizen of the Year Dinners. That’s where a volunteer, a business and an individual “citizen,” who has stepped up to make a difference in a big way, is recognized by the Chamber for their selflessness. This year’s dinner on Saturday, June 15th is significant with Volunteers of the Year, Amy Nultemeier and Nick Alberigi sharing the podium. Max Broome is our “Citizen” (he helped write the grant for the downtown park and serves on the school Board), and DW Enterprises as Business of the Year round out the awards. Get your tickets now from Wendy at Shear Pleasure Salon for $45 each. Call her at 481-3565. Doors open at 4 pm at the Druids Hall off Vine Hill Road. You get the true flavor of our town by attending. INFO: http://www.forestvillechamber.org/

Michael Cuoio, President of the Forestville Planning Association(95436.org,) let us know at the Town Hall that plans are actually moving forward with making the Downtown “Oaks” Park an official trailhead for West County Trail. Lynda Hopkins, also at the Town Hall, shared the vision that eventually the County would love to see a walking/biking trail all the way from Santa Rosa to Jenner, and Forestville fits right in with those plans. INFO:https://sonomacounty.ca.gov/Parks/Planning/Lower-Russian-River-Trail/

Lynda also mentioned progress getting property along 116 and Packinghouse Road for a Skatepark. It’s an ideal location across from the Elementary School. What a great place it will be for kids who don’t necessarily play team sports. Lots of details to be worked out, but it’s nice to know how hard Lynda is working for us.

And speaking of the Skatespot, $5 of every entry in last month’s Fun Run went to West County Community Services for flood relief for our neighbors who were impacted. That ended up being a $315 check! Thank you Jackie, Ellery and your hard working Skatespot committee for thinking of them. You have held the skatepark vision for us for years and the kids of our future will have you to thank.INFO: https://www.forestvilleskatespot.com/

Finally, come to the Lower Russian River MAC meeting at 5:30 pm on Thursday, June 20 at the Guerneville Vets Hall to get connected to what our extended community along the river is all about. I’ve learned so much about the issues that impact us all by being your representative, and I thank you for that.Sign up for the newsletter for BEFORE and AFTER meeting information - and Please ATTEND to stay in touch with what's important for the future of our home: https://sonomacounty.ca.gov/Lower-Russian-River-Municipal-Advisory-Council/