Thursday, June 11, 2026

Dear River Forest residents, 


I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Stacey King, who passed away on June 7 at the age of 59. A River Forest resident, Stacey was a three-time NBA champion and beloved sports broadcaster whose impact on the game and the community will not be forgotten.


I also want to congratulate the Oak Park-River Forest High School boys volleyball team on an outstanding season and a second-place finish at the State Championships. Your dedication, perseverance, and sportsmanship have made our community proud.


In addition, please join me in recognizing several Village employees for their recent educational achievements. Congratulations to Police Chief James Greenwood on earning his Master’s Degree in Public Administration, Adriana Holguin on earning her Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, and Megan Koeller on earning her Master's Degree in Human Resource Management. Their commitment to professional growth strengthens the exceptional service they provide to our residents.


Finally, I encourage you to join us for two upcoming community events: Casual Conversation with the Village President on Saturday, June 13, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the Keystone Center, and the Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony on Wednesday, June 17, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the River Forest Public Library. Additional information about both events can be found in articles below.


Sincerely,

Cathy Adduci, Village President

Village of River Forest

Connect with the Village

Have a question, suggestion, or simply want to stay informed about what's happening in River Forest? Residents are invited to join Village President Cathy Adduci and Village staff for a Casual Conversation with the Village President on Saturday, June 13, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Keystone Center.


This relaxed, open-house-style gathering offers an opportunity to discuss community topics, learn about current Village projects and initiatives, and connect directly with local leaders. Residents are encouraged to stop by, share their perspectives, and participate in the conversation.

Congratulations to Chief Greenwood

The Village congratulates Police Chief James Greenwood on earning his Master of Public Administration from Northern Illinois University. In recognition of his exceptional academic performance, Chief Greenwood was also awarded the prestigious Pi Alpha Alpha Medal.


The graduate program prepares public sector leaders to effectively develop, implement, and evaluate public policy while strengthening their skills in administration, analysis, and decision-making. Chief Greenwood’s dedication to professional growth reflects his ongoing commitment to public service and excellence in leadership.

Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony

Juneteenth is a time to reflect on our nation's history, celebrate freedom, and recognize the ongoing pursuit of equality and civil rights. Residents are invited to join the Village and the River Forest Public Library for the annual Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony on Wednesday, June 17, from 4 to 6 p.m. The event will begin with a flag raising in the Library garden, followed by an indoor program focused on reflection, remembrance, and community. Attendees can also browse offerings from women- and minority-owned vendors, enjoy refreshments, and conclude the evening with a performance by the Jackson Wolff Band. Community members of all ages are encouraged to attend this meaningful event. Learn more here.

CN Railway Crossing Construction

(Click the graphic to enlarge)

CN Railway will undertake a renewal of the Augusta Street and Forest Avenue grade crossings (where the roadway and sidewalk intersect railroad tracks) in River Forest. The project includes removal of the existing rubber crossing surface, reconstruction of the track structure, and installation of new rubber panels and asphalt approaches to improve safety and long-term durability. A full road closure will be required at both crossings for the duration of the work, as each crossing must be temporarily taken out of service to complete the improvements efficiently. Traffic control will be managed by High Star Traffic, including advance warning signage, barricades, and clearly marked detour routes installed prior to the start of construction. Weather permitting, construction is scheduled to take place from July 6 through July 10.

Save a Life:

Donate Blood!

Help save lives right here in our community! The Fire Department will host a community blood drive at 400 Park Avenue on Saturday, July 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Every donation has the potential to help patients facing medical emergencies, surgeries, cancer treatments, and other critical health needs. Our firefighters understand the importance of a reliable blood supply and are proud to support this effort to strengthen community health and wellness. While walk-ins are welcome, appointments are encouraged to help ensure a smooth donation experience. To reserve your spot, click here, select “Donate,” enter your ZIP code, and scroll to the July 25 listings.

Operation Chill

Has Begun!

The Police Department has partnered with 7-Eleven, Inc. to participate in the national Operation Chill® program, an initiative designed to strengthen positive relationships between law enforcement and youth. Now in its 31st year, Operation Chill encourages officers to recognize children for positive behavior and good citizenship - such as wearing a bicycle helmet, helping a neighbor, or picking up litter - with coupons redeemable for a free small Slurpee drink at participating 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes stores. This year, 7-Eleven will distribute nearly 740,000 coupons to more than 1,300 law enforcement agencies nationwide, including River Forest.

Expanded Battery Recycling Now Available at Village Hall

The Sustainability Commission is pleased to announce an expanded battery recycling program at Village Hall through its partnership with The Battery Network, a State-approved stewardship program funded by battery and product manufacturers committed to responsible recycling. The collection bins located in the basement of Village Hall now accept a wider range of household batteries, including rechargeable and single-use batteries weighing up to 11 pounds, as well as medium-format batteries commonly used in power tools and e-bikes. Batteries weighing 12 pounds or more, including car batteries and other spillable lead-acid batteries, are not accepted.



Please note: damaged, defective, or recalled lithium-ion batteries require special handling and should be brought to the attention of Village staff before disposal. No other damaged or defective batteries are accepted through the program. Learn more here.

River Forest Business Spotlight

Villa Nails River Forest offers a wide range of nail and beauty services in a welcoming and modern setting. Services include pedicures, manicures, dip powder, no-chip, builder gel, acrylics, gel nails, waxing, and more. Whether you're looking for routine nail care or a little self-care and relaxation, Villa Nails is a great local option right here in River Forest. Be sure to stop by and check out their beautiful storefront, and visit their Facebook page to learn more about their services and latest updates.



Please support local businesses whenever possible! If you have a business located in River Forest with a valid business license, it can be featured in the Village’s business spotlight. If you’d like your business to be featured, please send us an email. You can find a listing of River Forest businesses on the Village’s Shop River Forest website.

What's Happening in River Forest?

Visit the River Forest Community Calendar at rfhappenings.com
to find out, today!

Village of River Forest


400 Park Avenue

River Forest, Illinois 60305

708-366-8500


vrf.us

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