Community Support for West Chicago's Frosty Fest Takes Event to New Heights

West Chicago, Illinois: November 20, 2007 – When was the last time you saw a live reindeer on Main Street? You need wait no longer than Saturday, December 1st when Main Street in West Chicago welcomes two of these enchanting creatures, sure to delight children of all ages, to this year's Frosty Fest. Hailing from Summerfield Farm in Belvidere, Illinois, Comet and Cupid will be featured guests of the City through a sponsorship by West Chicago Sister Cities. Accompanied by two 'elves', the animals will be available for viewing and photographs under a shelter created by the West Chicago Park District on Main Street in the historic downtown from 4:45 - 7:00 p.m.

Thanks to so many community partners, the event has been transformed this year with many new elements rounding out traditional favorites. "It's been a joy to work on this event given the tremendous support we have received from community organizations and businesses," commented Anna Rosalez from the West Chicago Park District. "So many generous offers to help create something special for the community have resulted in a stellar lineup of entertainment and attractions. The talents of the West Chicago Middle School Band, Community High School Chamber Choir and Art Department, St. Mary's Choir and Wheaton Academy Kantorei will be the icing on the cake to all the sponsored elements. The contributions of window painting, music and song from these local groups will capture a hometown flavor and spirit that is uniquely 'West Chicago'."

Further adding to the excitement this year will also be a 'dazzling' tree lighting ceremony made possible by the Ladies Auxiliary to V.F.W. Post 6791 which funded the purchase of all new light sets for the tree outside the Fox Community Center; a horse-drawn sleigh, sponsored by National City Bank, which will provide free rides between the hours of 4:30 - 6:45 p.m.; a holiday stocking giveaway provided by the V.F.W. Post 6791 which children can have filled with treats from participating downtown merchants; reindeer games and crafts sponsored by Oberweis for Congress; and roving Victorian carolers brought to the community by NorthStar Credit Union/WECO Community.

Children visiting Santa and Mrs. Claus at the fountain courtyard on Main Street will be rewarded with a chance to convey their wish lists and receive a candy cane provided by Christie Poulin/State Farm and a glow stick from KinderCare. The aroma of fresh-made popcorn will be in the air compliments of the West Chicago Rotary Club, which will be on hand dispensing the holiday treat and a warming station inside the Fox Community Center will be hosted by the West Chicago Rotary Club where attendees could warm up with a cup of hot cocoa or cider provided by Santo Maria Ristorante and holiday cookies by Cortez Bakery.

Frosty Fest is presented by the City of West Chicago and the West Chicago Park District with help from WeGo Together for Kids, American Legion Post 300, West Chicago Public Library, West Chicago Fire District, Fox Community Center, Friends of the Museum, St. Vincent Thrift Shop, ESDA and Carniceria Jimenez. A detailed schedule for Frosty Fest may be found at - Frosty Fest Schedule (PDF - 112k) - or at City Hall, 475 Main Street.

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West Chicago is the one of the fastest-growing cities in DuPage County in the western suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. With a current population of more than 25,000, West Chicago is a diverse, family-oriented community with a rich cultural mix and a proud heritage. West Chicago is the first Illinois community established by the railroads and continues to be a convenient transportation hub served by three major rail lines, Illinois' third-busiest airport and three state highways. West Chicago offers award-winning schools, a growing industrial park and convenient access to parks, shopping and restaurants. Additional information can be found on the city's website at www.westchicago.org or by calling Rosemary Mackey directlyat (630) 293-2200 x 139.

CITY OF WEST CHICAGO 475 Main Street, West Chicago, Illinois 60185 T - (630) 293-2200 www.westchicago.org