Sue Hall is a proud supporter and board member of the Fine Arts Society
HAVE AN UPCOMING SURGERY AND CONCERNED ABOUT GOING HOME POST DISCHARGE?
Generations Oakton Arms, located in Des Plaines off of Oakton Street, is an intimate inviting community and we can be your temporary home base while you are recovering post-operation. Our fully furnished studio apartments are available for $90 a day and we have individualized care packages and a-la-carte services. Our 24-hour staff could provide a variety of help including stand-by showers, laundry, and assistance with transferring from bed. During your stay you’ll have access to our activities, transportation services to grocery shopping and doctor appointments, cable and Wi-Fi, meals twice a day, and housekeeping twice a week. You can also partake in light physical and/or occupational therapy within our Wellness Gym. If you’re interested in a short term stay, permanent residence, an activities, or are interested in joining us for a meal, tour, or just a friendly hello please reach out to 773-729-7324 or oaadminassist@generationsoakton.com!
Many thanks to the Park Ridge community for your contributions! We are always looking for residents to find great stories and send us ideas. Let’s celebrate the great things happening in our community! No contribution is too small. Please email strollparkridge@gmail.com with your pictures, suggestions and submission requests.
Joan Mattingly
This section is here to give our readers easier access when searching for a trusted neighborhood partner to use. Get to know the businesses that make this magazine possible. Please support them in return and thank them if you get the chance!
Our menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes, all expertly crafted by our talented chefs using only the finest ingredients. From juicy East Coast oysters to delicious Mediterranean calamari and authentic Japanese sushi, all coasts come together at Saltwater. Come and let the experience transport you to the ocean, no travel required!
JULY
God Bless America!
SUMMER IS IN FULL SWING! I hope you and your families are enjoying every minute of it! I can only imagine the fun you are having around town this summer as there are endless opportunities to explore, shop, dine and enjoy a stroll through our town (even if you have to dodge a cicadas or two!).
We are thrilled to feature a very special resident in this issue - Marie Sartor Pawelek who turned 100 years old this year! You may have seen her cruise past you during the town’s Memorial Day parade this past May. Marie was Grand Marshall! Check out her lovely life story inside this issue. Quite a fascinating women! We are grateful for her service to our country and her PARK RIDGE POSITIVITY!
check out some photos inside of our Graduates! Proud parents submitted many of these. Well done Mom & Dad! We wish all the graduates the very best in your future endeavors! We are #ParkRidgeProud of you all!
Happy Birthday America! We don’t take for granted our country’s blessings all around us. God Bless America!
Happy & Safe 4th everybody!
P.S. SAVE THE DATE! July 25th
Dolly McCarthy, Publisher
Photo credit: Crystal Parenti
BY
MARIE PAWELEK
ARTICLE SPONSORED BY ANN J WITEK - STATE FARM INSURANCE
Marie while on the Honor Flight to Washington, DC in 2015
Marie showing off her winning ginger chicken recipe. STROLL hopes to feature it in a future issue!
MY NAME IS MARIE SARTOR PAWELEK and I have been living in my Park Ridge condo since 1968. I was the building’s first resident! My claim to fame is that I celebrated my 100th birthday this past January. Though I had a hip replacement 18 years ago, I am so blessed to have good health and to still be able to live on my own. This year has been so much fun! I was thrilled to be asked to serve as Grand Marshall of Park Ridge’s Memorial Day Parade, riding in a convertible with my son, Michael. It was such an honor. I’ve also been asked to speak at an Italian American Veterans gathering in June. And now, at 100, I get to be a magazine “cover girl!”
I moved to Park Ridge in 1954 with my husband and son, Michael. We had a small home that did not have a very big yard, so we moved to Des Plaines for a few years. My husband, also a WWII veteran, and I divorced. My son, Michael, attended the Park Ridge Military Academy for a few years and then graduated from Maine West. Michael joined the Marine Corps and served in Vietnam. When he finished his tour, he earned a degree in mechanical engineering from Cal State and then moved back to the Chicago area. He married Helene in 1976, has two children, is now retired and lives in Elmhurst. Helene, also retired was an assistant special ed teacher at Bryan Middle School in Elmhurst. My grandson, Michael Luigi Pawelek, an Eagle Scout, graduated from
the U of I, Chicago, and is an account director with Leo Burnett; my granddaughter, Elizabeth Pawelek, works for Illinois Spinal Care.
I was born in Eveleth, MN, and graduated from high school in 1942. Growing up, my Italian tenor father was always singing and fostered a passion for music and singing in me. Known in Eveleth as a blues singer, I attended a year of college at St. Scholastica in Duluth but then enlisted in the Army. I trained as a medical technician at Beaumont General Hospital in El Paso,
TX and was assigned to the staff at Walter Reed Medical Center in Washington, D.C. At Walter Reed, when my musical interests were discovered, my job description was modified, and I was assigned to work with shell-shocked (now known as PTSD) patients using music therapy to help them recover. I taught piano and sang with them. There were many amputees among the patients. I remember that the basement of the hospital had a factory that created prosthetic devices. We often had special visitors visiting the unit including Spencer Tracy and Frank Sinatra. I remember that we had to wear our heavy wool Class A uniforms when on the Walter Reed Campus because we never knew if the President or some Generals might be visiting. In the hot, humid summer, this was very uncomfortable. I once saw General Patton on a motorcycle. (If we were on duty in our nurse’s uniform, we were exempt from the requirement.)
Marie was a long time entertainer at Eli’s in Chicago.
I had the opportunity to meet General John Pershing! The General lived in a penthouse on the hospital grounds and the general’s orderly and I became friends. The orderly arranged for me to meet the General and I visited his quarters. We had a cup of tea together; he learned that I could play the piano, but unfortunately did not have one in his suite. After the war, I was discharged as a corporal and used the GI Bill to study at the Sherwood Music Conservatory in Chicago. I began working as a singer and piano player and was invited to audition as an entertainer at the cocktail lounge for Eli Schulman, who owned Eli’s The Place for Steak. I sang and played the piano for customers and Eli offered me a job. I worked there for 26 years singing classical, pop, standard and Broadway tunes; I played at a few other local establishments when asked. It was great fun! Eli had a great number of friends in the entertainment world, and I had the opportunity to meet and play for several of them including Frank Sinatra, Shecky Greene, Rocky Graziano, Hal Roach, Sammy Davis, Jr., Mitch Miller, Gale Sayers and Martha Raye.
You may know that Eli Schulman created his restaurant menu including a recipe for cheesecake. The cheesecake was introduced at the very first Taste of Chicago in 1980, which I remember. As the cheesecake offerings became so well-known and many outside restaurants wanted to serve them, he opened a factory on Forest Preserve Drive, which his son, Marc, continues
to operate. Unfortunately, Eli’s restaurant closed in 2005 when the building was torn down to make room for a parking garage.
My FAVORITE baseball team is the CUBS. CUBS players, of course, came to Eli’s so I got to meet many of them. When I attended games, I was invited onto the field to visit the players including Ernie Banks, Ron Santo and Randy Hundley. (In the ‘60s and ‘70s, it was common to wear wigs; I wore one regularly---hence the wigs in my photos.) I bowled for 30 years with fellow parishioners at St. Paul of the Cross. Unfortunately, COVID put an end to our bowling. Though we have not resumed the bowling, our group gathers monthly at the Omega for lunch. It’s great to keep us in touch!
In 2015, at my son’s urging, I participated in an Honor Flight from Chicago to DC. It was a very long day. We left early in the morning and returned home after visiting several memorials and sites in Washington. I was the only female veteran on my flight and none of the other veterans talked to me. I was interviewed by a DC TV reporter but did not get to see the footage because we left that evening for the return to Chicago. When we arrived at Midway Airport, there were 4 or 5 fire trucks welcoming us back shooting water. It was quite impressive! I don’t get out very often nowadays, but one of my favorite things to do is to bake. I regularly bake cookies and deliver them to my neighbors in the building. I also deliver the morning paper to one of my
neighbors, Carl Brauweiler, who served as Park Ridge’s City Treasurer for over 30 years.
In the mid-1980s, I won a Chicago cooking contest for my grilled ginger chicken recipe. The actress Jill St. John had a food column and featured my recipe, along with others, in a USA Today insert in the paper. One of the projects that I work on now is to send birthday cards to veterans. I am given a list of about 20 veterans each month and am happy to send a note to them. When I had my birthday, I was so surprised to receive almost 100 cards from so many different people! It is nice to be remembered and as we get older, there are fewer friends and family to remember us.
What do you think has been the most significant change in the last 100 years? I think there is too much reliance on credit cards. We didn’t even have checking accounts in my small town.
What was your first car? I didn’t have a car until I was married. It was a 1952 Chrysler Windsor Coupe which I had to learn to drive.
What do you think we have “lost” with all the changes that the world has to offer nowadays? Caring about our neighbors. I’ve been so lucky to have had such a wonderful long life and to have met so many interesting people. I am grateful for continued good health and mental acuity, wonderful neighbors, and for my son Michael and his family who regularly visit.
Marie with Harry Caray.
Marie with comedian Shecky Greene
WHEN I ATTENDED GAMES, I WAS INVITED ONTO THE FIELD TO VISIT THE PLAYERS INCLUDING ERNIE BANKS, RON SANTO AND RANDY HUNDLEY.
Nominate a family! Email us with their name and email. We’d love to include them in a future issue! Send submissions to strollparkridge@gmail.com
Marie with CUBS Player Ron Santo.
Marie with CUBS player Ernie Banks.
Marie with comedian/actress Martha Raye.
Frank Sinatra visits Eli’s the Place for Steak.
Lena Marasco
BY RESIDENT LENA MARASCO
Street you live on: I live on South Ashland Avenue in Park Ridge.
School you attend and grade you’re in: I am in 4th grade at Roosevelt Elementary School
What sports do you play? The sports I play are soccer and karate.
How long have you been playing? I have been playing soccer for 5 years and training in karate for six years. Which one is your favorite? While I love karate, soccer is my favorite sport.
What inspired you to get started with your chosen sport? My mom, she loves soccer and has made me watch soccer games for as long as I can remember. What positions do you play? I play goalie and sometimes forward.
Is there a position you hope to play someday as you get better? I love playing goalie, but would also like to play center midfield. I love going for the soccer ball. What do you enjoy most when playing your favorite sport? Practicing and playing with my teammates.
What is your proudest moment? When we won the Libertyville Cup. We all played really hard and worked great as a team to bring home 1st place.
Who do you have to thank for helping you get there? My coaches and teammates.
Who is someone you admire? Why? I admire Alyssa Naeher, the goalie for the U.S. National Team and the Chicago Red Stars. I admire Alyssa Naher because she is never afraid – well at least she does not act afraidmakes the most incredible saves, and even scores goals. I also admire the way she leads her team. What advice do you have for others looking to get into your chosen sport? My advice is to work hard and practice. When you work hard and practice, anything is possible.
Beyond sports, what do you like to do? Beyond sports, I like to play the cello, hike, play with my friends, and walk my dog.
Are you involved with any other extracurricular activities? Nope, soccer and karate keep me pretty busy. If you were to continue practicing your sport, what do you hope to become or accomplish someday? I hope to play on the U.S. Women’s National Team in a World Cup Game – hopefully somewhere with good weather.
ARTICLE SPONSORED BY MARIO DILORENZO - KELLER WILLIAMS ONECHICAGO
KIKI CALUMET
A & N Mortgage
Over 23 years of experience in the mortgage industry
Born and raised on the Northwest side of Chicago in Norwood Park, I attended Immaculate Conception Grammer School, Resurrection High School then went on to DePaul University where I played softball and received my BA in Education. After college I became a teacher at Onahan Elementary School. I was a teacher there for 5 years and during that time I received my Masters from National Louis University. I loved teaching and I loved the kids but after 5 yrs it was time for a change. In 2000 I left teaching and began working at a mortgage company and never looked back. I have been in the mortgage industry for over 23 years closing almost 1 billion in residential mortgage loans. Currently I am the Executive Vice President at A and N Mortgage Services, Inc where I have been for over 16 yrs. I love what I do. Buying a home should be one of the most important exciting times of your life. I take pride in educating my clients on the process as well as all the options available to help them attain their goal of homeownership. They can count on me to find them the right program for their needs, and be there to provide them
with the exceptional customer service they deserve to ensure they are informed every step of the way.
A and N Mortgage is a full-service mortgage company that handles all aspects of your mortgage under one roof from processing and underwriting all the way through funding. We have an extensive range of products which include conventional and jumbo mortgages, FHA and VA loans along with down payment assistance programs. We help first time buyers all the way through seasoned investors. We recently had a major rehab of our office and have a great event space where we hold different events and seminars for clients and business partners.
About 17 yrs. ago I crossed over Canfield and moved to Park Ridge. I have 3 kids, Matthew, Austyn and Braden. Matthew and Austyn are in 7th and 6th grade at Lincoln Middle School and Braden is a 4th grader at Roosevelt. We also have 2 dogs. Buddy a 5 yr. old Bernadoodle and Callie a 17 yr. old Puggle. When I am not working, I love to watch or coach my kids in all their different sports which include baseball, basketball, football, volleyball and cross country as well as play golf and my new found love of pickleball.
CUSTOMER TESTIMONIAL:
Kiki was an absolute lifesaver throughout my home buying journey. Her expertise, dedication, and unwavering support were instrumental in securing a mortgage that made owning my dream home a reality. Without her guidance, I wouldn’t have been able to navigate the complexities of the process. Her commitment and personalized assistance were invaluable, and I am incredibly grateful for her exceptional service.
MELISSA,
PARK RIDGE
Kiki’s three kids Matthew, Austyn and Braden
BLAZE
BY RESIDENT VICKIE KARRAS
WHOOF, WHOOF, my name is Blaze, and I’m a Cavapoo. I’m a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle. I’m three years old (twenty-one years in dog years!) and am bilingual! I have plenty of nicknames from my mom and sisters, Kat and Angie
ranging from “handsome baby” to “Blazie”. I’m a very lovable dog, who enjoys to snuggle and be smothered with affection. This includes plenty of belly rubs by anyone at all times of the day. If I’m on a walk and notice a stranger nearby, I drop to the ground, roll over and wait for a belly rub. Or if my mom calls “rubbies’ from another room, I quickly roll over eagerly waiting with a waggy tail. My eagerness to please is a trait that my mom especially adores. Whenever someone comes to our home, I run to my toy box to grab a toy and greet our guests. This is my signature trick.
I was born in Ohio and delivered to my family in Park Ridge during COVID when I was only four months old. I remember the excitement of my sisters when I arrived at the door. Being showered with love and treats made me feel like the luckiest pup in the world. It’s clear that I brought so much joy to their lives, and they appreciate me as much as I appreciate them. I also love to spend time with my cousin, Luna, who is a feisty Maltipoo. She lives in Park Ridge so we spend plenty of time together. Whether it’s simply snuggling
next to each other on the coach, or sharing a special bone from our favorite shop, Kriser’s in Park Ridge, my time with Luna is always so special. Due to my pleasing nature. I don’t get in much trouble at home, unless of course my natural prey hunting nature tempts me. this may lead to bringing some unexpected surprises from outside into our home from time to time! My affectionate nature is the perfect complement to the love and care my family provides, which makes me very grateful pup. As long as I keep bringing smiles to everyone around me, I’m sure there will be plenty more rubs in my future!
Kat (L) and Angie (R) with Blaze
Couple on right: Sherry Julitz and Scott Fry
Stroll SUPER SUPPER at D’Agostino’s Raises Funds for WINGS Program, Inc.
Another successful Stroll Super Supper! Everyone enjoyed balloon creations, pizza, pasta, appetizers, salads and COMMUNITY! We are so excited to announce nearly $500 was raised for WINGS. Wings provides victims of domestic violence and their children an escape route, safe housing options to help end the cycle of violence. Special thanks to our sponsors....John Tunnell Agency, FadeAway Medical Esthetics, Sue Hall @Properties, and D’Agostino’s Pizza and Pub in Niles. Thanks D’Agostino’s for hosting such a fantastic space for our community supper! Next Stroll Super Supper is July 25th. Check inside this issue for details.
BY RESIDENT JOAN MATTINGLY
Did you know…Park Ridge was home to one of the most prolific nationally recognized church-designing architects of the post-WWII era?
Charles Stade, born in 1923 in Des Plaines, graduated from Maine Township High School, received an architecture degree from the University of Illinois and a Masters from Princeton. After a fellowship spent touring Europe, Stade returned to Chicago, working in local firms before establishing his own architecture practice in Park Ridge.
Halted by the Depression and WWII, suburban migration was in full force in the post-war era, changing the built environment across the country. The
car and the growing middle class led to the rapid growth of many suburban communities, including Park Ridge. These communities needed new churches. Many of these mid-century modern churches were built to reflect the spirit of the time, when designers and their clients were looking for structures that better related to contemporary life and culture. Addressing a group, Stade said that artists, architects and ministers should “join together in creating forms that will best present the meaning of their beliefs.”
Most of Stade’s designs are found in the Chicago area and are characterized by their simplicity, use of natural materials, careful attention to detail including efficient use of space and a reliance on natural light and volume. Among his clients was Park Ridge’s St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church which had outgrown its original building and selected Charles Stade architect. St. Andrews is constructed of red brick with a solid end wall and boxed-out stained glass windows with faceted glass, all of which mark it as unique.
Another church Stade designed in Park Ridge was Good Shepherd
Lutheran Church, for which he received an AIA Award. Stade designed other structures too, including his own home in Park Ridge on South Knight, which was built using many of the same characteristics as his church designs. Stade died in 1993; his papers are archived at Valparaiso University for which Stade had completed several projects, the most well-known being his Chapel of the Resurrection.
Charles’ home on Knight in Park Ridge.
St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church in Park Ridge.
Premium Quality Materials & Workmanship
James Hardie Siding Experts
3D Modeling and Design Assistance
Consultative, No Pressure Approach
Instant Roof Quotes Available on our website
Financing is Available
LOCAL EVENTS
WEDNESDAY, JULY 3
6:30 - 10 pm FREE
July 3rd FIREWORKS Celebration Maine East High School www.prparks.org
THURSDAY, JULY 4TH
9 am Hodges Park Kiwanis 69th Annual 4th of July Kiddie Parade
Sponsored by STROLL Park Ridge
SATURDAY, JULY 6 -
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26
7:00am - 1:00pm
Park Ridge Farmer’s Market
15 Prairie Ave. (between Maine and Garden)
Every Saturday thru October. Find a great selection of fruits, vegetables and other local products. For more information please visit parkridge.us
SUNDAY, JULY 7
10 - 11 am
Sunday Yoga in the Park - FREE! STROLL Park Ridge is proud to sponsor! Hodges Park
FRIDAY, JULY 12
6:00pm - 9:00pm
Cruisin’ Park Ridge
Uptown Park RidgeLibrary Parking lot
Free Community Event! Live entertainment, activities for the kids and more. Dates this summer: July 12th, August 2nd, and September 6th. For more information please visit parkridgechamber.org
FRIDAY, JULY 12
8:00pm - 9:30pm
Concerts in the Park Hodges Park~ 101 S. Courtland Ave.
Grab a blanket, chairs, drinks and good company to enjoy the Brian Patti Big Band, presented by Park Ridge Fine Arts Society. For more information please visit www.prfas.org
THURSDAY, JULY 18SATURDAY, JULY 20
11:00am -11:00pm
Taste of Park Ridge
Uptown Park Ridge
Free admission. Enjoy food and beverage vendors, music and entertainment! For more information please visit www. tasteofparkridge.com
FRIDAY, JULY 19
7:30pm -10:00pm
Fred Astaire Dance Studio 10 Year
Anniversary
17 N. Prospect Ave. Park Ridge
Come celebrate Fred Ataire Studio Milestone! The evening will include an open bar, heavy appetizers, general dancing and special performances. Open to the public. Cocktail attire. Please RSVP by call or text to 224-463-9771.
FRIDAY, JULY 19
8:00pm - 9:30pm
Concerts in the Park Hodges Park ~ 101 S. Courtland Ave.
Come out to enjoy the Park Ridge Fine Arts Symphony presented by the Park Ridge Fine Arts Society. For more information please visit prfas.org
THURSDAY, JULY 25
5:00pm - 7:00pm
Stroll Super Supper
Land & Lake - Rosemont
Free community super for all! Join us for another Stroll Super Supper! Free donations will be accepted for The Harbour. RSVP strollparkridgeevents@gmail.com
FRIDAY, JULY 26
8:00pm - 9:30pm
Concerts in the Park Hodges Park ~ 101 S. Courtland Ave.
Come out and enjoy the talent and music of the Park Ridge Fine Arts Symphony presented by the Park Ridge Fine Arts Society. For more information please visit prfas.org
SATURDAY, JULY 27
Noon - 3 pm
Country Farm Fair
STROLL Park Ridge is a proud sponsor!
Wildwood Nature Center
Enjoy a day down on the farm! Pet cows, chickens, goats and more! Games, food and drink. For more info. check out www.prparks.org
MONDAY, JULY 29
11:00am - 7:00pm
Avenues to Independence
Gorman Golf Classic
Park Ridge Country Club
11:00 am Registration and Lunch
12:30 pm Shotgun Start
5:30 pm Evening Reception For more information
avenuestoindependence.org
Whether looking back at all you’ve accomplished or looking forward to all that’s yet to be- wishing you the best in this new chapter of your life. Congratulations graduates! WE ARE POSITIVELY PARK RIDGE PROUD OF YOU!
Maine South High School Class of 2024
MSW’s Class of 2024 with 55 graduates going to 16 different high schools.
INDEPENDENCE DAY
BY RESIDENT PAUL HANSEN
RIDGE
Sitting here as I do every morning every day
July Fourth calls for something very special to say
John Phillip Sousa beautifully playing in my ear
But there is much more I must admit that I hear I hear the words read, written so long ago
Hard won by sacrifice of millions we all know
Freedom means different things to every one
But it has always been easier said than done Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness
Is something that no one should have to miss
We have often been a country divided, But no matter with whom we sided
We usually talked and reached across the aisle
We might not always agree, but ended with a smile
We could always find common ground
No obstacle we could not find our way around
I still believe this to be inherently true
I know it would happen if it was me and you
So on this Independence Day I still believe America will continue to be all it can be
While I see us with all our flaws
I still have hope because I know as Americans we can all agree
We have more in common than not, you and me!
LIFE IN THE DAD LANE
Hitting from the rough
BY RESIDENT SCOTT CASTELLANOS
My kids have started golfing, which opened a new way for us to spend time together. My golf season started out rocky, which is par for the course (pun intended), but as I was struggling to get my swing right, I realized that this is a lot like being a parent.
Face it, both include a lot of frustration and working yourself out of tough spots. Kids and golf contain hazards; the course has sand and water traps; when the boys were little, I had to avoid a mine field of Legos and now it’s laundry piles and hair products.
Golf requires a bag of clubs designed for specific purposes. As a parent, our “bag” includes diapers and toys when they were small and now it includes phone chargers, money and a lot of patience.
Golfers strive to perfect their swing, but no matter how good you get, you’ll still slice one away. In parenting, you try to put your kids in the best possible situations, teams,
coaches, schools …but we still end up in the rough. The strategy for golf and parenting isn’t too different, in golf we try to finish the game with the least number of strokes. As a parent we create routines, schedules, chore charts and countless other ways to create efficiencies. Golfers dream of getting a birdie. As a parent our “birdie” is getting to all the activities on time without forgetting anything and stealing a few moments of fun along the way.
All in all, as my kids are spending more time away from us, it feels like the last few holes of a round. You try to make each shot count so you can close out strong. Then you get to hit the clubhouse, have a drink and relax, but in our mind, we are still thinking of the shots we made, how fun it was and looking forward to the next round. I think you can make the connection. Just take it one hole at a time, one shot at a time and enjoy the round.
“Born and raised in Park Ridge, having left and returned to raise my own family, I have loved to cook as far back as I remember, throwing my first dinner party at 10 years old. I would consider myself to be a “foodie” but over more recent years, I have also started focusing on eating much more healthy.”
LISA PAGE
FIRE UP THE GRILL! IT’S PIZZA NIGHT!
BY RESIDENT LISA PAGE
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 pizza crust
• 1/3 cup olive oil, divided
• 1 medium eggplant, peeled and sliced
• about 1/3” thick slices
• 1 cup grape tomatoes, sliced in half
• 2-4 cloves garlic, crushed
• ¼ cup fresh basil, shredded
• 1 can artichokes, drained & chopped
• ½ cup Mediterranean pitted olives, chopped
• Truffle oil
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat the oven according to crust directions or to 425. Brush the prepared crust with olive oil and set aside. Heat about 2 tbs olive oil in a large pan and sauté the eggplant slices until soft; drain on paper towel. Instead of separating the pizza into 4ths (1 for each season) as typical, I started at the outside of the crust and worked my way toward the center because I like to enjoy all the flavors. I also replaced the traditionally used prosciutto or ham with eggplant to keep the recipe plant based. Starting with the outer ring, gently place the eggplant slices around the outer edge of the pizza. Next, spread a ring of tomatoes inside the eggplant layer. On top of the tomatoes, sprinkle the crushed garlic and the shredded basil. Then spread a ring of artichokes, leaving a small circle in the center for the chopped olives. Bake according to crust directions, or at 425 for 8-10 minutes. Remove the pizza from the oven to set and drizzle with truffle oil! The pizzas can also be baked on a grill or in an outdoor pizza oven.
Do you have a recipe you would like to featured? Please email us at strollparkridge@gmail.com
Pizza Quattro Stagioni
Hey Park Ridge! We are still here and nearby. Come visit your old friends now located in Niles!
WE HONOR & REMEMBER OUR 2 & 4-LEGGED HEROES
Stroll precious pets make their Memorial Day parade debut. Thousands line parade route thru Park Ridge
PHOTO CREDIT: ANTHONY TRIPP PHOTOGRAPHY AND DOLLY MCCARTHY
Parade Grand Marshall Marie Sartor Pawelek and family
2024 Memorial Day Grand Marshall Marie Sartor Pawelek
STROLL Precious Pets L to R Olive and Arlo. “Olive is the love of Arlo’s life!” - Melissa Sagat, Arlo’s Mom
ROOSEVELT SCHOOL CUB
PACK 201 STILT PROJECT WITH RESIDENT & COMMUNITY LEADER TED SIGG
BY RESIDENT JOAN MATTINGLY
AND THEY’RE OFF ...Sunday, May 19th, the children in Roosevelt School’s Cub Pack 201 were offered the opportunity to participate in a stilt-making project. Guided by talented carpenter and longtime community volunteer, Ted Sigg, the children visited Mr. Sigg’s workshop and were introduced to his workbench. With some help from parents, children worked to assemble their pre-cut 2xs and then to fasten the pieces together.
The Scouts colorfully decorated their stilts and then tested them. It took a bit of practice, but they soon learned how to maneuver themselves across the pavement. After some practice runs, the stilt-walkers were timed. Awards were given for the fastest stilt-racer (Eve Levin) and for the best-decorated stilts (Reagan Miller). The Scouts eagerly encouraged each other in the project and showcased their collaboration and sportsmanship.
This is the second time this year that Ted Sigg opened his basement workshop for the Cub Scouts. In September, the Cub Scouts assembled and decorated the sailboat kits that Mr. Sigg had made for them. The children then conducted their Raingutter Regatta races in his back yard.
Mr. Sigg generously hosts community groups of all ages, including one of the Stroll Park Ridge Community Coffee gatherings which he hosts every January with a project in his basement wood shop. He enjoys sharing his knowledge, experience and skills with anyone that is interested. He has helped groups fabricate birdhouses, crosses, small stools and a myriad of other useful things. The stilt-making project was a bonus activity for the Pack, capping
a busy year that included visits to the Field Museum, Russell Military Museum and O’Hare Airport along with camping, horseback riding, biking and hiking adventures, the Pinewood Derby and Raingutter Regatta, and service projects including trash pick-up, a book drive and a food drive. The Scouting program offers girls and boys opportunities to learn a lot of things outside the classroom, teaches children about the importance of service, but includes a lot of FUN activities too! What a memorable end-of-year adventure for Pack 201!
C OME H OME T O D INN E R
ONL I N E O R DE R ING • PIC K-UP • D E L IV E RY c hef b e au s k le a n k i t c hen. co m 8 47 . 337 . 64 5 6 Chicagoland’s
Our meals are made from the highest quality ingredients, with no added preser vatives. We use many organic breakfast, snacks, soups, salads, entrees and of course our delicious gluten-free baked goods and pastas, in fact our lasagnas are legendar y! Our menus change weekly, and we include many plant-based and vegetarian options along with pasture raised, 100% grassfed beef and wild-caught animal proteins. All meals are made fresh by Chef Beau and his professionally trained and educated chefs, catering to ever yone who wants or needs to eat KLEA N !
Joey Aiello
BY RESIDENT 10 YEAR OLD BRIDGET AIELLO
Grade and School: 8th grade - Lincoln Middle School
Favorite movies: Sandlot
Favorite show: Outer Banks
Do you have any favorite songs or bands? My favorite song is Crazy Story
Do you play any sports? If so, what positions? I play football and my position is cornerback. Last fall I played for the Park Ridge Falcons,Team Gold under Coach Capesius. We were division champions. I also play golf, wrestle and basketball. Football is my favorite.
Do you play a musical instrument? I play guitar.
What are your three favorite things to do? Play football, rest, hang out with friends.
Do you have a favorite vacation? If so, tell us what you liked about it? I recently vacationed in Riviera Maya with my family. I loved it because we went with all of my cousins, stayed right on the beach, I could eat anytime of the day as much as I wanted, I barely had a schedule and could do whatever I wanted. However, I do love vacationing at Folly Beach in Charleston, South Carolina.
Have you ever met anyone famous? Javon Whims, a Chicago Bear wide receiver.
Are there any upcoming challenges you’ll face this year? Playing football for Maine South and maintaining good grades. What do you want to be when you grow up? Surgeon Describe your perfect summer day. Going to the beach with friends and playing football.
THE YOUTH SERVICES COMMISSION OF PARK RIDGE
Fostering a forum for Youth Topics and Community Groups
BY DYLAN M. SARSANY ~ CHAIR OF THE YOUTH SERVICES COMMISSION
The Youth Services Commission is one of the several commissions and boards that operate under the consent of the Park Ridge City Council. As a group, we historically are made up of about half adult and half student commissioners who go through the same appointment process, respectively. Our main goal is to facilitate and foster a greater benefit to the youth of Park Ridge via local events and community-building activities. Some of these are Dodgeball Tournaments, Volleyball Tournaments, an Annual Food Drive, Winter Movie Nights, Pumpkin Carvings, etc. Among all things considered, we also have new and future events that we hope to benefit the kids in our great community. One of our latest initiatives has been the Park Ridge Golden Award. Its goal is to recognize and honor students in Park Ridge who
demonstrate outstanding community service and leadership—the award is not given on the basis of academic excellence, but moreover the merits of one’s own goodwill. The commission was previously co-chaired by two adult commissioners last year, and years before, but as their respective terms were ending, I was elected by the commission to serve as their new chair—the first student to do so. My goals in entering this role were to empower the students around me and the commissioners represented, by vocalizing their opinions and ideas for the youth of Park Ridge, governed by the principle of political representation by the people and for the people. This Summer we plan to have another Golden Award Recipient. In addition we will have game trucks and School of Rock, at the Taste of Park Ridge,
Bringing in the annual food drive goods to City Hall.
Commissioners of the YSC during Winterfest Movie at the Pickwick.
Previous Co-Chair Leslie Wolf, Current Chair Dylan Sarsany and volleyball participant at the annual Youth Commission Volleyball Tournament in August 2023.
AROUND TOWN
Baseball
Summer time at the ball park! Park Ridge Warriors 12U Blue at a tournament in Peoria.
Daddy Daughter Dance Dads and daughters danced the night away at the Park Ridge Country Club’s annual Daddy/ Daughter Dance on May 9th.
Just strollin’ around town with Kimberly’s precious pet!
Field School running club ran for Louis’ Loop Liv for a Cure 5K Walk/Run on June 1st. STROLL Park Ridge was so proud to sponsor this fundraiser.
JP LaCorcia with his daughter Gracie.
Mario DiLorenzo with his daughter Frankie.
Chuck DiFranco and his daughter’s (L to R) Liana, Eliza and Siena
Police
On Monday May 13th residents and community leaders gathered to remember our fallen heroes and celebrate the dedication of our Park Ridge Police department. Photo credit: Anthony Tripp Photography
Fred Astaire Dance
Congratulations to Marissa DiFranco and Fred Astaire Dance studio in Park Ridge for all their dance successes!
Cicadas are our friends. At least somebody special thinks so!
Al Fresco dining is the place to be on a summer night in Uptown!
Park Ridge Library Executive Director Joanna Bertucci encouraging everyone to read this summer as the library celebrates 100 years of its Summer Reading program.
Marissa and Rafael from Fred Astaire Dance Studio Park Ridge dancing Rhythm at the Freddy Ball.
Marissa won Top Newcomer Award at the Freddy Ball 2024 and took 1st place in all 3 categories: Latin, Smooth and Rhythm!
Marissa DiFranco at Fred Astaire’s Cabaret Show (won best overall routine). WTG Marissa!
Park Ridge Police Chief Kampwirth
Park Ridge baseball/softball hosted the 15th Annual Ice Cream Classic Tournament over Memorial Day Weekend. Congratulations to all the Park Ridge Pistol teams!
Community Coffee
It was wonderful to see some new and familiar faces at the Stroll Community Coffee in May! Please join us July 31st for our next Community Coffee. All are welcome!
Softball
Adorable Climbers spotted outside the Park Ridge Library.
Hello swimmers! We love to see our STROLL Park Ridge readers at the pool this summer!
Ted Sigg sharing his new game with the Stroll Community Coffee group.
Got swag? This is how we STROLL!
STROLL Little Strollers swag!!! If you have a “Little Stroller” (new baby or grandchild) you would like to feature in the community magazine, email strollparkridge@gmail.com a high resolution photo. We can’t wait to meet your little stroller!
Kindergarten classes at Mary Seat of Wisdom school releasing butterflies this past Spring.
