In Memoriam: Andrew Zeh | Distinguished Budget Award | First Female Firefighter Appointed

Thursday, July 30, 2026

Dear River Forest residents,

It is with a heavy heart that I acknowledge the passing of 11-year-old River Forest resident Andrew Zeh. Andrew will be remembered for his kind heart, joyful spirit, and the warmth he shared with his family, friends, fellow Scouts, classmates, and our community. On behalf of the Village, I extend my deepest condolences to the Zeh family and to all who knew and loved Andrew.

The Village is thrilled to host the second annual Senior Barbecue, Bingo, and Ice Cream Social on Thursday, August 20 in honor of National Senior Citizens Day. This event honors and celebrates our older adults, along with caregivers, with an afternoon filled with food, fellowship, and fun. Additional details will be posted on our social media pages and in this e-newsletter - very soon!

Whether supporting our schools, serving on boards and commissions, or giving your time and talents to nonprofits, community volunteers help to shape the future of River Forest. If you’d like to make a difference by volunteering for a Village board or commission, I encourage you to complete a volunteer application.

Finally, congratulations to the River Forest Little League 12U and 11U teams on their outstanding accomplishments this season. The 12U team recently captured the District Championship, while the 11U team advanced to the Illinois State Tournament’s top eight teams in the single-elimination bracket. I am sure that our entire community is incredibly proud of both teams and their hard work!

Sincerely,

Cathy Adduci, Village President

Village of River Forest

In Memoriam

The Village was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of 11-year-old resident Andrew Joseph Zeh. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Andrew’s family, friends, classmates, and all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him during this incredibly difficult time.

In lieu of flowers or other tributes, memorial contributions can be made to the Andrew Joseph Zeh Charitable Memorial Fund at the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation. Donations made in Andrew’s memory will help support the maintenance of local parks and camps, provide Scouts with opportunities for leadership and service, and further other charitable efforts that strengthen the Oak Park and River Forest community.

Distinguished Budget Award

The Village is proud to announce that its Fiscal Year 2026 Budget has received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) - which is the highest honor in government budgeting. In addition, the Village also earned special recognition for its Long-Range Operating Financial Plans. These prestigious awards reflect the Village's commitment to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and strategic financial planning. Congratulations to our dedicated Finance Department for this outstanding achievement and for their continued stewardship of the Village's financial resources.

Protect Yourself From West Nile

The Desplaines Valley Mosquito Abatement District has reported elevated levels of West Nile Virus in mosquitoes, which increases the risk of transmission to humans. Residents are encouraged to reduce their risk by eliminating standing water around their homes, wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors - especially during dawn and dusk, and applying insect repellent that contains DEET. Learn more here.

First Female Firefighter

The Village proudly celebrated a historic milestone at the July 20 Village Board meeting as Julia Massey was officially sworn in as the first female firefighter/paramedic in the history of the Fire Department. Congratulations to Julia as she begins her service to the community, and thank you for your commitment to serving and protecting the residents of River Forest.

Honoring Excellence in Public Safety

The Village proudly recognized members of the Police Department during the July 20 Village Board meeting for their exceptional service and dedication to the community. Officers Lane Niemann and Xavier Saldana were presented with Police Department Commendation Awards in recognition of their outstanding contributions and commitment to public safety. Congratulations to both officers for their professionalism, dedication, and continued efforts to serve and protect River Forest.

Street Renamed to Honor Volunteer

The Village recently honored longtime Historic Preservation Commission member David Raino-Ogden by designating the 500 block of Edgewood Place as “David Raino-Ogden Way.” David served on the Commission from 2008 until his passing in the fall of 2025, and played an important role in shaping its foundation while preserving River Forest’s unique character. The designation recognizes David’s decades of dedicated service, professional insight, and lasting impact on the community.

Protect Your Pets!

Cook County recently confirmed its third rabid bat of the year, and reminds residents to take steps to protect their pets from rabies. Make sure your pets' rabies vaccinations are up to date, since proof of a current vaccination is required to obtain a 2026–2027 Village pet license. As a reminder, licenses are available for purchase at Village Hall and online. In addition, Cook County Animal and Rabies Control is offering free rabies vaccination and microchip clinics through October. Click here for clinic dates and locations.

Sustainability: Village Recognized for Cleaner,

Reusable Fuel

As part of its commitment to sustainability, the Village transitioned its diesel fleet to B20 biodiesel in September 2024 for use in fire trucks, snowplows, trucks, and other diesel-powered vehicles. Made from renewable resources like vegetable oils, animal fats, and recycled cooking grease, B20 burns cleaner than traditional petroleum diesel and helps to reduce the Village's environmental footprint.

The Village is proud to be a member of the B20 Club of Illinois, a program sponsored by the Illinois Soybean Association and the American Lung Association, which recognizes organizations that use biodiesel to promote cleaner air and a more sustainable future.

Business Spotlight - Proper Title

The Village is pleased to welcome Proper Title to River Forest! The award-winning residential and commercial real estate title agency is expanding its long-standing commitment to serving the Oak Park-River Forest community. Known for exceptional customer service, innovative technology, and an experienced team, Proper Title helps guide clients, brokers, attorneys, and lenders through every step of the closing process with confidence and care. Learn more here.

Please support local businesses whenever possible! If you have a business 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 an email. You can find a listing of River Forest businesses on the Village’s Shop River Forest website.