Park Ridge









7/12
Brian Patti Big Band
7/19
Park Ridge Fine Arts Symphony
7/26
Park Ridge Fine Arts Symphony
8/2
Illinois Brass Band
8/9
The Falconaires Orchestra 8/16
Brian Patti Big Band
Sue Hall is a proud supporter and board member of the Fine Arts Society
EMERGENCY
911
(847) 318-5252 (847) 318-5283 (800) 222-1222
(847) 318-5240 (800) 244-1977 (800) 334-7661 (888) 642-6748 (866) 796-9669 (888) 824-2273 (800) 244-4444
(312) 322-6777 (847) 364-7223
(847) 823-3101 (847) 692-5127 (847) 692-3597
(847) 318-5200 (224) 585-3148 (847) 318-5216 (847) 825-3123
(847) 318-4300 (847) 696-3600
(877) 863-6338 (800) 252-2873 (833) 2FIND-HELP 988 (847)221-5680
Fire Police & Ambulance
Park Ridge Police Non-Emergency
Fire Department Non-Emergency
Poison Control Hotline
UTILITIES
Public Works Dept
Groot - Garbage Pickup
ComEd
Nicor Gas
Wide Open West
Comcast AT&T
TRANSPORTATION
Metra PACE
RECREATION
Park Ridge Country Club
Park Ridge Park District
Senior Center
CITY
Park Ridge City Hall
Park Ridge Mayor
Park Ridge City Manager
Park Ridge Library
SCHOOLS
District 64 Office
District 207 Office
HOTLINES
Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline
Child Abuse Hotline
Illinois Helpline for Opioids and Other Substances
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
WINGS Program Domestic Violence Hotline
Dolly Caravette McCarthy (630) 272-7582 dolly.mccarthy@n2co.com
Tina DiLorenzo strollparkridge@gmail.com
Diane Morris strollparkridgeevents@gmail.com
Anthony Tripp Photography AMT Photos amtphotos2011@gmail.com
Crystal Parenti Photography crystalparentiphotography@gmail.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.
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!
ACUPUNCTURE & INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE
Metta Perspective Acupuncture (847) 701-5788 www.mettaperspective.com
ATTORNEY - BOUTIQUE REAL ESTATE LAW
Law Office of Magdalena A. Murzanski, LLC Magdalena Murzanski (847) 533-7053 MagMurLaw.com
AUTO REPAIR
Uptown Auto Repair (847) 698-2527 uptownautoparkridge.com
BEAUTY
Aelan Aesthetics (224) 585-9974 www.aelanaesthetics.com
Dermani Medspa (224) 985-3932 www.dermanimedspa/parkridge
FadeAway Medical Esthetics (773) 744-0738 fadeawaymedicalesthetics.com
Uptown Med Spa (224) 377-9677 pruptownmedspa.com
CATERING/RESTAURANT
Pizza Boy Chicago (773) 853-0018 pizzaboychicago.com
CHILDCARE
Sugar Plum Tree Preschool (847) 823-1978 sugarplumtree.net
CHIROPRACTIC CARE
Silver Lining Chiropractic (847) 999-4608 www.gosilverliningchiro.com
CORPORATE INVESTIGATIONS
Marshall Investigative Group (855) 350-6474 mi-pi.com
DANCE
Fred Astaire Dance Studio (847) 653-6157 FredAstaireIllinois.com
Lynnette’s School of Dance (847) 823-7334 lynnettesschoolofdance.com
DENTIST
Dr. Niki R. Laskaris, DDS (847) 823-6400 nikilaskarisdds.com
DENTISTS
Park Ridge Smile Center (847) 825-2277 parkridgesmilecenter.com
Rubino Dentistry (847) 825-1002 rubinodentistry.com
ENTERTAINMENT
Des Plaines Theatre - Onesti Entertainment (630) 962-7000 desplainestheatre.com
Village of Rosemont (847) 993-8312 rosemont.com
FUNERAL HOME
Cumberland Chapels (708) 456-8300 cumberlandchapels.com
HEATING/COOLING
Home Comfort Services, Inc HomeComfort.net
HOME CARE
AMADA Senior Care Northshore (847) 324-9450 AMADAnorthshore.com
ICE CREAM/DESSERTS
Rita’s Ice Custard Happiness (847) 969-7189 ritasice.com
INDEPENDENT LIVING
Alden Estates of Northmoor (773) 775-8080 aldenestatesofnorthmoor.com
Generations at Oakton Arms in Des Plaines (847) 299-5588 generationsoakton.com
INSURANCE / LIFE / FINANCIAL
Tunnell Insurance Agency Inc. (847) 306-8660 tunnellagency.com
INSURANCE AGENCY
State Farm Insurance (Ann Witeck) Ann Witek (847) 692-3260 annwitek.net
LANDSCAPE DESIGNER/ LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR
Vanessa Tobin Landscape Design (847) 477-0790 @vanessa_tobin_landscape_design
LAW
Anthony J. Madonia & Associates (312) 578-9300 madonia.com
Daleiden Law, LLC (773) 420-9410 daleidenlaw.com
MENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS
Michael J. Athans, Ph.D and Associates, Ltd. (847) 823-4444 athansandassociates.net
MORTGAGE LENDER
A and N Mortgage Services
Kiki Calumet (312) 909-9372 Kikicalumet.com
PARK DISTRICT
Park Ridge Park District (847) 692-5127 prparks.org
PEDIATRIC DENTIST
Blue Coral Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics (847) 861-7695 kidsmyl.com
PERGOLAS & OUTDOOR KITCHENS/LIVING
Landscape Additions (708) 612-1946 www.landscapeadditions.com
PHOTOGRAPHY
Crystal Parenti Photography (708) 822-3493 www.crystalparentiphotography.com
PLUMBER
Olympian Plumbing (312) 241-0951 OlympianPlumbing.com
PODIATRIST
Dr. Michael J. Palliser (847) 692-3700 palliserpodiatry.com
PREPARED MEALS
Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating Of Park Ridge (224) 633-6247 seattlesutton.com
REALTORS
@properties Sue M. Hall (847) 692-5522 justsoldsue.com
Mario DiLorenzo Real Estate Team Keller Williams ONEChicago (847) 312-0912 mariodilorenzoteam.com
RESTAURANTS
Bourbon ‘N Brass Speakeasy (630) 962-7000 desplainestheatre.com/restaurants
D’Agostino’s Pizza & Pub (847) 518-8700 www.dagostinos.com
Des Pizza (630) 962-7000 desplainestheatre.com/restaurants
Firewater Saloon (773) 631-0020 www.firewatersaloonchicago.com
Pizza Boy Chicago (773) 853-0018 pizzaboychicago.com
Sal Pique (847) 696-7081 www.sal-pique-parkridge.com
Saltwater Coastal Grill (773) 312-3653 saltwaterrosemont.com
Soup & Scoops (773) 775-1079 www.soupandscoopschicago.com
Thalaiva’s Indian Kitchen (847) 696-7029 www.thalaivasIndiankitchen.com
ROOFING/SIDING Northwind Exteriors (708) 829-0532 www.northwindexteriors.com
SCHOOLS
Resurrection College Prep High School (773) 775-6616 reshs.org
THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE
Vive! Therapeutic Massage (847) 637-0002 vivemassage.com
WELLNESS
Chef Beau’s Klean Kitchen (708) 354-4844 chefbeauskleankitchen.com
LET’S GET SOCIAL! SAVE THE DATE! Stroll SUMMER SOCIAL & BEST OF PARK RIDGE 2024.
At last it’s Summer time! June flies by pretty quick so let this be your reminder to get out and get Strollin’ around town! Beautiful parks, trails, festivals, concerts in the park, and friendly neighbors help slow life down and put you in the moment! With so many fun things to do in town, the toughest part is knowing where to begin. You can start with a visit to the Farmers Market, a swim at one of the park district’s pools, a trip to the library to join the Summer Reading Program, a baseball game at the park (Stroll is a Proud sponsor of Park Ridge Baseball & Softball), dining al fresco and more! A family favorite tradition for many now is the Stroll 7th Annual Ice Cream Social. June 18th 6-8 pm at DQ! Details inside this issue!
June 20th marks the official kick off to summer, and we are gonna have a party! Join your neighbors & friends for a good time at the Stroll Summer Social and Best of
Park Ridge Awards Night. Cheer on the many wonderful, quality businesses that are so POSITIVELY PARK RIDGE! Entertainers Tony Ocean and Angel Spiccia will have you dancin’ all night long! Park Ridge Charity of the Year as well as the POSITIVELY PARK RIDGE PERSON OF THE YEAR will be announced. This is one celebration you do not want to miss! Food, entertainment, cash bar and more! Summers in Park Ridge are the best! Summer starts at the Stroll Social! Details inside the issue.
Stroll Park Ridge is Your Stories, Your Photos. Your Community Magazine. Now in its 6th year! This is your publication, Park Ridge. I’d be so honored if you’d continue to Stroll with us!
Dolly McCarthy, PublisherYou may have seen us coaching youth sports, having dinner at Harp & Fiddle or attending the Vine Street BBQ competition, Taste of Park Ridge or the Friday night car shows in Uptown.
Who are the members of your family?
We’re the Stinsons!
I’m Jim and Nicole is my wonderful wife. We’ve got two kiddos, William (6) and Evelyn (4).
Where are you from?
I’m originally from Rockford and Nicole is from Lake Forest.
How long have you lived in the neighborhood?
We have lived in Park Ridge for 10 years and prior to that we lived in Edison Park for a few years. Nicole and I both attended the University of Illinois where we met in 2003. Nicole got a degree in Finance and I studied Political Science and Speech Communication. We will be married 14 years this August.
Is there anything your neighbors might know you for?
We’re quite active in the community, and enjoy attending charity events, participating in nonprofit work and having fun around town. You may have seen us coaching youth sports, having dinner at Harp & Fiddle or attending the Vine Street BBQ competition, Taste of Park Ridge or the Friday night car shows in Uptown.
Tell us about your kids. What schools do they go to?
William and Evelyn attend St. Paul of the Cross and participate in several activities. The community at SPC has been tremendous, and we so appreciate staying busy with all of the events the school and parish has to offer. William plays flag football, basketball and baseball. Evelyn does gymnastics, karate, dance and soccer. Their favorite is splashing around in the pool – both of them love to swim!
What do they like to do for fun?
The kids love playing with their friends, going to the park, riding bikes and they love taking trips with their parents!
What do you like to do together as a family?
We love going on family adventures, and we commonly vacation in Arizona and Florida. We recently returned from a week in Disney World and the kids had the time of their lives. We love our annual Memorial Day weekend in New Buffalo, MI, with friends.
Do you have any family traditions?
Christmas is a fond time in our family. William was born on Christmas Eve at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital. We are so lucky to spend this time with family and friends.
What do you do for a living?
I’m the Managing Director for a wealth advisory firm in the northern suburbs. Our mission is to provide financial security planning to every individual, family and business in the country. I’ve been with the firm almost 18 years and I love what I do every day. Nicole is an insurance broker in commercial property and casualty insurance and works for a global brokerage firm.
What do you enjoy doing?
We love hosting friends and family at our house, attending concerts and sporting events and traveling with our kids.
Are you passionate about any charities?
Jim is actively involved in local government and supports organizations that champion childhood literacy. We are involved in Alex’s Lemonade Stand, an organization that provides funding for childhood cancer research. Nicole serves on the Development Council for Advocate Lutheran Hospital.
Describe your perfect day.
Our perfect day starts with breakfast with the kids in uptown, going to the park or a long bike ride then hosting friends at our house.
What are your favorite restaurants, TV shows, and sports teams?
We are avid fans of the Bears, Cubs, Bulls and Blackhawks. Our favorite all-time TV shows are The Office, Ted Lasso and The Sopranos. Our favorite restaurants are Holts and Harp & Fiddle.
What are you most grateful for?
We’re grateful for two healthy kids, and to have our parents nearby. We’ve got challenging, fulfilling careers and live in a wonderful, supportive community.
Our perfect day starts with breakfast with the kids in uptown, going to the park or a long bike ride then hosting friends at our house.
ONL I N E ORDE R ING • PIC K-UP • D E L IV E RY
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 !
School you attend and grade: I attended Maine South and graduated this year.
What sport do you play? How long have you been playing? I’m a cheerleader! I have done cheer for 8 years now!
What inspired you to get started with your chosen sport? I was inspired to start cheerleading when all of my friends did it! It started off as just something to do, but then I discovered how much I truly loved the sport.
What positions do you play? I’m a flyer, which is the person being thrown in the air!
What do you enjoy most when playing your favorite sport? There are so many things I enjoy when I’m cheering, but my favorite is making the best memories with the best people. My team is full of the nicest girls, and all of the games, competitions, and practices with them are memories I’ll cherish forever!
What is your proudest moment? My proudest moment is making it to the second day of state with my team this year. It’s something very difficult to do, and this year we worked extremely hard to accomplish this goal. This definitely wouldn’t have been possible without our amazing coaches, Stacy and Melvin! They believed in me and my team and pushed us to be the best athletes we could be!
Who is someone you admire? Someone I admire is Gabi Butler. She is one of the best cheerleaders to ever exist, and her incredible skills are goals that I hope to achieve some day.
What advice do you have for others looking to get into the sport? A piece of advice for anyone wanting to start cheerleading is to have a good attitude. While it’s true that cheerleading is much more evolved today, and there are lots of difficult stunting and tumbling skills, the most important thing is having a positive attitude and putting the “cheer” in cheerleading!
Beyond sports, what do you like to do? Are you involved with any other extracurricular activities? In my free time, I love to spend time with my friends and family! I also love shopping and working out!
Do you have an athlete you’d like to see featured? Email us at StrollParkRidge@gmail.com
Jay Leno didn’t have an estate plan in place, and it’s no laughing matter. Turns out Jay Leno had to file for conservatorship for his wife because he didn’t quite have his estate planning ducks in a row. Jay’s wife has dementia, and if they had a completed estate plan, the sad and difficult time would have been much easier.
A Durable Power of Attorney (POA) would have saved Jay from this predicament. If he and his wife had a completed plan, she would have named him as her POA, and that’s all that would have needed to be done. A Durable Power of Attorney allows you to name someone who can control your assets and make Financial decisions for you if you can’t do so for yourself. Instead, Leno must go to court, which requires time, money, and medical testimony. Then, the court makes the decision. If there are other relatives in the mix, they could challenge Jay’s ability to be conservator, and seek the position for themselves. It’s up to the court to decide.
Dementia is one of those circumstances that can result in you being incapable of making these kind of decisions. When you nominate someone as your power of attorney, they have authority to act in your best interest, and there is no need to involve the court. The other upside is the person is someone YOU choose, not the court.
Due to Mavis’ dementia diagnosis, Jay wants to create a trust to hold “each of his and Mavis’s one-half interest in their community property.” The account would make sure that there are sufficient funds to provide for Mavis’ future care and for her family members after the couple’s eventual deaths. We can learn from Jay’s mistake. By taking proactive steps to plan for the unexpected, we can avoid unnecessary headaches and protect our loved ones’ futures. It’s like putting on sunscreen before hitting the beach.
Anthony J. Madonia & Associates, Ltd. wants to provide you with general information about the law and taxes, a professional opinion with a personal touch. This article should not be taken as official legal advice and does not form an attorney-client relationship. Please feel free to contact us for more information, or if you need legal representationinfo@madonia.com or 312-578-9300.
We protect your interest with a fierce devotion to solutions that maximize your bottom line. We commit to the highest principles of integrity, excellence, and client service.
We grow with you by evolving our service platform to accommodate naturally changing conditions.
Chicago Area Law Firm - Serving businesses and individuals since 1995 Six Year Proud Sponsor of Your Community Magazine Park Ridge!
Since 1995, Anthony J. Madonia & Associates, Ltd. has proudly provided customized assistance on legal and tax matters to businesses and individuals across the Chicagoland area and beyond. Our team of professionals brings decades of experience in the practice areas of Business & Corporate Law, Trust & Estate Planning, Litigation & Dispute Resolution, Taxation and Real Estate Law.
Tell us a little bit about you. I am a proud native Chicagoan. I grew up near Belmont Ave. and Harlem Ave. When my wife Jenny and I got married 38 years ago, our first apartment was on Irving Park Road near the Kennedy Expressway. Our first house was six blocks north of that and our second house was six blocks north of that. In 2021, we went wild and moved to Bartlett. We are proud parents of a rescue dog, three adult children, one beautiful granddaughter and another grandchild on the way.
Interesting Hobbies: I am a lifelong aviation enthusiast and own a Cessna 182RG. I have lots of fun as a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) and have hosted more than 50 Young Eagles flights for budding aviators.
Tell us about the events that led up to where you are now. I graduated with an accounting degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago. I then earned my Juris Doctorate from John Marshall Law School (now University of Illinois Chicago College of Law) while working as a Senior Tax Accountant at Peat, Marwick, Mitchell & Co. I am a former adjunct professor at John Marshall Law School in Chicago, where I taught Estate &Trusts and Estate Planning & Drafting. I am a member of the American Bar Association and American Association of Attorney-Certified Public Accountants. I am the former President of the Chicago Financial District Chapter of Rotary International; a board member and treasurer of Safer
Organization, which helps people in the criminal justice system with education and job training; and serve on the Board of several charities.
What is unique about your business?
We are unique because we can incorporate tax planning into every business, estate and real estate strategy that we implement. Our taxation department has staff that crunch the numbers and run “what if” scenarios depending on what the client’s objectives are. I enjoy solving legal and tax issues. I pride myself on direct involvement with clients, which keeps me in touch with today’s business environment and the evolving needs of business owners. Beyond that, I am surrounded by the best team--each one is great at what they do and dedicated to our clients.
How are you and your business involved in the community? Our firm believes in giving back to the community in which we live and
work. By supporting local athletic and educational opportunities for youth, we reinforce our community-minded beliefs. We extend our support to the following local organizations: Maine South Mock Trial Team, Le Ballet Petit, Palatine Community Baseball Team, and the Northern Illinois Huskies Hockey to name a few.
Given your business expertise and the nature of what you do, what advice can you offer to the residents? I am so proud to be a part of this community and enjoy getting to know area residents and businesses. My advice is to admit you don’t have to know everything to be able to manage your wealth or plan for your future. Just find professionals that are knowledgeable and can translate current issues and jargon into language you can fully understand. Don’t let your confusion or questions hold you back from getting help with tax preparation or estate planning. There are people, like us, who “talk the talk” and can help you.
How would one of our neighborhood residents know they could benefit from your services? If you own a business, there is something we can do to put you and your business in a better place. That’s what we are best at. We also pride ourselves on estate planning and administration. Often, it’s the family dynamics that can make a big difference.
New Address: 1900 East Golf Rd. Suite 650, Schaumburg (312) 578-9300 Madonia.com
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Did you know……….that from its earliest years, Park Ridge has been the home of many artists including sculptor John Paulding? Born in Ohio in 1873, Paulding eventually came to study at the Art Institute of Chicago.
In 1907, Paulding moved to Park Ridge with his wife, maintaining his studio in Chicago, creating sculptures of bronze and stone, memorials and decorative projects, some for public display, some for private clients. A major commission was a larger-than-lifesize statue of Civil War General James McPherson (1917, McPherson, KS).
In 1909, a 1916 Beaudette Park Ridge history indicates that Paulding gifted the community with his design for a fountain placed in the center of Johnston Circle, a roundabout at the intersection of Center Street (now Touhy Avenue), Prospect and Northwest Highway. The fountain was 6’ in diameter with a 10-foot high waterspout and a 14’ ground-level basin.
When the community accepted funding for the Carnegie Library, John Paulding was appointed Chair of the
Building Committee working with the architects, Pond & Pond. A 1926 Park Ridge history credits Mr. Paulding, “more than any one else,” with the “fine, home-like” library that was opened in December 1913.
After WWI, Paulding was actively engaged with the design and execution of bronze sculptures that memorialized the American soldiers that had died in The Great War; his “doughboy” castings are found in many communities across the country.
In 1926, Paulding created the fountain that still exists in the small park next to Rita’s, at the intersection of Northwest Highway and Cedar.
Former Mayor William Malone gifted the city with this 2-level bronze fountain that was intended “for the pleasure and refreshment of my friends, my neighbors and any who pass this way.”
For the Century of Progress in Chicago in 1933, Paulding created a three-dimensional life-size diorama titled THE DOCTOR, modeled on a painting by Luke Fides. The image was made using a
new art form called “sculpticolor” which was painted and displayed in the Hall of Science. Paulding, residing at 320 N Ashland, died in 1935 and is buried at Graceland Cemetery.
Cha-Cha-Cha-Changes
I have found that opportunity brings change and change isn’t easy. Especially when it pushes you outside your comfort zone and nothing pushes you outside your comfort zone quite like being a parent. This is especially true when it comes to teenagers. Who tend to push us out of that zone regularly and without warning. I mean, haven’t we all had spontaneous ‘hangs’ at our house that include feeding a group of kids or last-minute decisions on dances, teams and school functions that require a new wardrobe? These are opportunities for us as parents to support our children and encourage engagement with the world around them. That opportunity creates change in us adults to be flexible and understanding and always make sure we have room on that credit card.
I will go out on a limb and say teenagers are probably not the best at spotting opportunities or embracing change, because everything is outside their comfort zone. Asking one of
so expecting them to do something potentially life-altering on their own, is going to be a doozy. Let’s face it, unless the opportunity presents itself in a TikTok or a Snap Chat, they won’t notice it and honestly, it is probably best they don’t act on those opportunities. This is where we, as parents, need to force our way in and point, push or drag our kids to the opportunities in front of them. For example, my boys weren’t going to do all that was needed to become caddies, nor did they want to. I mean what teenager wants to wake up early and walk for hours? But my wife used the dragging method to get them to the opportunity, and now they have experienced the change of having their own money, making contacts in the community and free golf on Mondays.
All in all, what the kids don’t realize is that their opportunities and changes create opportunities and changes for us too. New friends, community involvement, learning to budget and
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!
Park Ridge Kiwanis Club honored at The Harbour’s annual fundraiser
BY MELODY ROSE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR THE HARBOUR, INC.THE HARBOUR recently announced the local not for profit raised nearly $100,000 in funds from sponsors, community members, and supporters at their annual fundraiser held on March 8th. At the event, The Harbour honored Park Ridge Kiwanis with the 2024 Commitment to Youth Award. “The Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge has provided caring support and demonstrated incredible generosity to The Harbour over the years. Their decades-long funding support of The Harbour has made an incredible impact,” said Mary Burke-Peterson, Manager of Grants and Donor Relations.
Since 1972, The Harbour has been serving young people by providing emergency shelter and transitional housing, and support programs to link them to a pathway towards permanent housing and long-term success. Last year The
ursday, July 4, 2024 9 am -10 am City Hall - Hodges Park Park Ridge, IL is Year's eme ........... Super Heros & 4th of July!
Use your imagination to decorate yourself, bikes, wagons, & pets!
Ribbons will be awarded to winners: Best Individual - Best Group Infant through 8th Grade!
Harbour housed over 100 youth, provided over 10,000 hours of case management support, and connecting youth to employment, education and health resources.
For more information about The Harbour, including volunteer opportunities, contact Ellie Storr at ellie@theharbour.org or visit www.theharbour.org
MOST PEOPLE IN PARK RIDGE are probably familiar with the Park Ridge Park District. Most, however, are likely less familiar with an organization that is an extension of that organization –the Maine-Niles Association of Special Recreation, also known as M-NASR. Just as the park district provides options and opportunities through a variety of recreation programs, M-NASR is similar, but its services are specifically designed for individuals with disabilities. Park Ridge is just one of seven park districts that M-NASR has been serving co-operatively since 1972. The other six are Des Plaines, Niles, Golf-Maine, Morton Grove, Skokie and the Village of Lincolnwood Parks and Recreation Department.
“M-NASR exists to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to participate throughout their lifetime in recreation and leisure activities,” said Trisha Breitlow, M-NASR’s Executive Director. “M-NASR provides over 600 programs annually to over 1,000 children, teens and adults with disabilities in its member-district areas. Programs range in size from 1:1 therapeutic sessions in our sensory room to small group activities such as after school bowling, cooking, fitness and cultural arts. Our athletics and team sports offer a competitive environment at the local, state and national levels through Special Olympics and other organizations. M-NASR also fosters social activity and a sense of community through outings to zoos, museums, restaurants, overnight trips, day camps, and large special events with over 100 participants.”
Programs are available throughout the year for youth and teens, adults with intellectual disabilities and adults with physical and visual impairments. M-NASR owns a fleet of five accessible vehicles used to transport participants to and from programs.Transportation options included door to door service, pick up points and after school pick-ups.
M-NASR also assists its member park districts by offering inclusion services to individuals with special needs
who wish to participate in their local park district programs. This is an interactive process between M-NASR full-time staff, the Park District staff and the family of the individual requesting services. M-NASR staff provide observations, assessments and recommendations for ways the program can best include the individual.
If you’d like to get involved with M-NASR, residents with disabilities are welcome to participate in M-NASR programs. The latest seasonal program guide can be found at mnasr.org/brochuredownloads. M-NASR offers several ways to contribute, including sponsorships, donations and community involvement, all of which can make a real difference in the lives of the children, teens and adults with disabilities M-NASR serves. More information on all these opportunities can be found at mnasr.org
New District 64 Superintendent completes his first school year
You are coming on your first full year as District 64 Superintendent, how was your first year? Anything new to the district you implemented this past year?
This first year has been great. I’ve enjoyed serving our community in this new role. We have redone our Master Facilities Plan, identified and adopted new safety procedures, and improved our external and internal communications. There are many things we’re working on for the future with a focus on student achievement.
What are your immediate goals for the district?
We are always going to be working on improving academic achievement and safety. In particular, our facilities are now working for our students and staff and we’ve begun to gather feedback from the community on what the future can look like for our schools.
What are some challenges ahead for the district?
Right now, the district facilities present a major challenge that we’re gathering feedback on and trying to address for the future. We also want to set-up our schools to best prepare students for their academic future, which is quickly changing in a world where other factors alter how learning and knowledge work.
If you could invite anyone in the world to visit and speak with the children in District 64, who would it be and why? Abraham Lincoln because there’s a reason we named a school after him and what he accomplished for our country
How do you like to spend your time?
Beyond work, I spend time with my three kids Grace (6), Luke (4), and Owen (2) and my wife Christina. I do compete in local golf tournaments as well.
Who was your favorite teacher? Mike Steirs, my middle school band director.
Favorite school subject? Band and anything music.
Favorite Cafeteria food? Bosco sticks, no contest.
What are you most #parkridgeproud of with the district?
The efforts our staff put into their work with students every day.
What do you enjoy most about being in this position as opposed to being a principal?
Being the principal at Maine South was an honor and I loved every second of it. In my new role, I’m able to help and support different aspects of student and staff development and ensure that our major strategic initiatives are working for our community.
Summer Reading Program kicks off June 7th
BY JENNIFER HEALY, PARK RIDGE LIBRARY PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGERTHE PARK RIDGE LIBRARY’S annual Summer Reading program for kids, teens and adults will kick off June 11 with the theme “100 Years of Summer Reading.” The club will run from Friday, June 7, through Sunday, August 10. Registration is free. Readers are welcome to come into the Library and sign up at the service desks in the Children’s department, The Teen Loft or in Reader Services. Participants can track their reading beginning June 7 through the Beanstack website.
“We invite the Park Ridge community to join us for this special 100th anniversary year of Summer Reading,” said Library Director Joanna Bertucci. “We are grateful to former Head Librarian Frances Holbrook who initiated this program to inspire kids to read over the summer. The idea that one hundred years later it draws more than 1,800 children, adults and teens to participate demonstrates that Park Ridge is a city of readers.”
The Summer Reading Club for children began the Summer of 1924 and was originally called the Vacation Reading Club. Later, during WWII, the club was renamed the Victory Reading Club. The name of the club may have changed through the years, but the goal to get children excited to read never changed. The reading club has continued to grow every summer since.
Children and teens from birth through high school can earn a virtual prize drawing ticket in Beanstack for every 10 days they read. Anyone who reads at least 30 days by Saturday, August 10, will earn a free book. They can earn more chances to win by reading more days. Reading logs are available at the Children’s Services or Teen Loft desks. Adults have two options for earning a completion prize. They can read at least 20 minutes a day for 40 days, or finish four books in selected categories.
Prizes are generously donated by the Friends of the Library. The end of Summer Reading means its time for a celebration! On Saturday, August 10, from 10 a.m. to Noon, Summer Reading participants can join the staff on the Library Lawn for live music, fun and games.
Visit parkridgelibrary.org for details.
Hey Park Ridge! We are still here and nearby. Come visit your old friends now located in Niles!
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Family member names: Damon, Stacey, Henry and Caroline Sather
Type of breed: English Springer Spaniel
Male or female: Female
Age: 4
Where/why did you get your pet? We got Sadie from a Springer Spaniel breeder in Lennox, South Dakota. My dad drove to get her when she was 10 weeks old. We wanted a great family dog who was also a good bird dog for hunting pheasant.
Is there anything special or unusual about your pet? Sadie is a very athletic dog. She loves pheasant hunting in the Fall and Winter and swimming in the summer. Sometimes she swims in the lake and chases fish for six hours at a time. Sadie enjoys doing agility courses that we set up for her in the backyard. She regularly clears jumps 30” high. She also loves chasing and catching bubbles!
Pet’s favorite things to do in Park Ridge? Sadie loves going to baseball, softball and flag football games, playing in the parks, and taking trips to Uptown… especially near the Park Ridge library and along the shops on Prospect Avenue.
Does your pet have any talents/tricks?
We have taught Sadie many tricks, including “sneeze,” “crawl,” “shake,” “rollover,” and “spin.” You can ask her to find a specific toy by name and she will bring it to you. If she gets a special treat, such as meat scraps, she will clear her container and bring it to the sink. Sadie will not eat anything
until she is told “ok”. Even when we drop something on the floor, she will sit and wait until we tell her it is ok.
Some of Sadie’s favorite things are… Hunting, swimming, paddle boat rides, playing hide and seek, car rides, chasing squirrels and geese, visiting our horses at the barn, sleeping by the fire, and playing with the hose.
What do you like best about your pet? Sadie is so sweet and loyal to us. She is a great listener and likes to learn new things. Most of all, she just likes to cuddle and be close to our family. Sadie is always happiest when all of us are together.
Hello my friend-take a walk with me
To the old part of town and you will be
Taken back in time instantly
On the corner of oak and crescent you will see
The two big homes on the hill
Where it seems that time stands still
Imagine back in the horse and buggy days
On those hills where children played
A hundred fifty years or more have gone by
There were no planes in the sky
Electric lines were not on poles nearby
Phones were not invented yet
So many things that we forget
How different things were back then
No one now remebers when
Who lived in those big old places
I wish we could see their faces
What brought them here to town
Back when so few homes were around
What did they do in their life
Who was that man and his wife
Their children went to school a few blocks away
What brought them here and how long did they stay
Every time i walk by i wonder about all those things
The questions a century brings
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Sal Pique serves up mouth watering Mexican dishes for a cause!
Stroll SUPER SUPPERS ARE BACK!
On Tuesday April 9th, residents enjoyed a fantastic Mexican feast at Park Ridge’s newest restaurant Sal Pique! It was a fun night and all for a good cause. Stroll passed the sombrero for Avenues to Independence. Thank you to all who came out to this wonderful community event which raised $1,000 for Avenues! There was no better place to spend a Taco Tuesday Night!
Valerie and I met in second grade at a Galentine’s Day party that a mutual friend of ours had hosted. At the party, there was a hair contest and Valerie was my partner. Valerie french-braided my hair and we won the contest. We have been fashionable friends since then! Here’s our interview:
School you attend and grade you’re in: 4th grader at Washington Elementary School
Do you have any favorite TV shows or movies? Obviously the movie Cruella.
Do you have any favorite songs or bands? Our Song by Taylor Swift.
Do you play any sports? I don’t play any sports teams, but I swim for fun at the Park Ridge Country Club.
Do you play a musical instrument? I play piano but I am getting bored of it.
What are your three favorite things to do? My three favorite things to do are draw, jump on my trampoline and be outside.
Do you have a favorite vacation? Cobo, Mexico was my favorite. I also loved Crystal Lake, Michigan because the water is so clear.
Have you ever met anyone famous? No
What is your favorite thing to do in Park Ridge? I love to see movies at the Pickwick.
Tell us something unique about you. I can shake my eyeballs!!
What do you want to be when you grow up? I used to want to be an architect but now I want to be an interior designer.
Do you have a child you would like to see featured? Email us at strollparkridge@gmail.com
Year published: 2024
Where did you grow up?
Where do you live now? I grew up on the East Coast and then Illinois, spent the majority of my adult years in Colorado and have been a resident of Park Ridge for the past 11 years.
Give us a brief summary of the book: The Greyzone: Insights on Leading Your Career with Intention is the ultimate guide to finding clarity and taking control of your career. In the book, you will gain career clarity and direction, learn tools to find fulfillment and purpose, and finally break free from societal expectations and live life on your own terms. The Greyzone helps you learn to identify your dream job and create a plan to achieve it. The book will empower you to have more confidence and will allow you to gain
Comfortable patient experience in a relaxing and modern environment.
practical tools and techniques for navigating job searches as well as insights on how to leverage your network to advance your career. Throughout the book there are journal prompts to unlock new ways of thinking.
What inspired you to write this book? I’ve been wanting a book about my work for years and one day in yoga it came to me, the title, the concept and the format. When I assembled my blog into a manuscript I realized I had a full book!
Who is the intended audience? Anyone looking to infuse their career with more intention and those in job search mode.
Where can residents purchase your book? Books are available
A Park Ridge family proud to be contributing to the quality of life for our neighbors and friends. Located in Park Ridge since 1978, with Lauren Rubino, DMD joining the practice ready to continue our high standards for the next 40 years.
On the evening of May 1st, Stroll Park Ridge Publisher Dolly McCarthy awarded Maine South Senior Nate Bradley with the Stroll 2024 Scholarship at the Maine South High School Senior Awards Night. “We were thrilled with the number of applicants this year, making it hard to pick just one winner. Ultimately, Nate stood out and we have no doubt he will be a success in his field of study. Nate is already a success!,” said McCarthy.
Nate plans to attend Marquette University in the Fall to study Broadcast Journalist and Sports Administration. For the past four years at Maine South, Nate has been a member of WMTH-TV/FM, the school television and radio station. During this time, he served as a play-by-play announcer for live broadcasts of football and basketball games, and a variety of behind the scenes positions such as producer, writer, editor, camera operator and director.
During sophomore year, Nate was elected WMTH television Vice
President. He also hosted a radio show, Real Champions, where he interviewed various guests who shared inspiring stories of their accomplishments through sports, education and community. “My experience was both memorable and educational, and I was honored to be named as a national finalist for Best Student Podcast, and eventually a Second Place award at the 2023 John Drury Student High School Radio Awards last November.”
“I’m grateful to Stroll Park Ridge for this scholarship because it will help achieve my future goals. I’m also thankful for my parents, who both have had over 30 year careers in television and film in Chicago. They have shared their passion throughout the years and encouraged me to use my creativity, share my voice and tell beautiful stories,” said Nate Bradley.
We are so very PARK RIDGE PROUD of you Nate! Good luck!
June 26th and July 31st, 9-10:15 AM
About You: I live on Lincoln Ave right by Lincoln Middle School with my husband Terry and two daughters Riley (4yo) and Reagan (1yo).
About the Dish: This recipe is for chicken kabobs served with peanut sesame noodles. It’s perfect for summer grilling. There’s a ton of versatility with kabobs so everyone in the family can get involved making them just the way they like. The peanut sesame recipe is from my mom and it was one of my favorite things she made growing up. It’s a great side dish for any summer bbq.
INGREDIENTS:
• Boneless Chicken Breast
• Pineapple (We used fresh cut pineapple but canned pineapple works too)
• Bell Peppers
• Onion
• Peanut Butter
• Asian Sesame Oil
• Peanut Sesame Noodle Sauce
• ½ cup peanut butter
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup warm water
• 2 tbs rice wine vinegar
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 ½ tbs asian sesame oil
• 2 tsp honey
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• Scallions
• Sesame seeds
PREP WORK:
1. Trim chicken breast and cut into cubes
2. Cut pineapple into 1 inch pieces
3. Cut onion into 1 inch sections
4. Combine ingredients for Peanut Sesame Sauce in a blender and set aside.
DIRECTIONS:
5. Arrange chicken, pineapple, pepper and onion onto skewers.
6. Place on baking sheet
7. Salt and pepper kabobs before placing on the grill.
8. Grill 4-5 minutes and then flip the kakbos
9. Use Peanut Sauce for dipping or serve over angel hair pasta with scallions, red pepper flakes and sesame seeds for garnish
Little helpers in the kitchen can be hit or miss but I just made this dish with my 4 year old daughter and we had so much fun. She put all the ingredients I measured for the sauce into the blender for me. And then since she’s learning about patterns she had fun telling me which ingredient to add next when we were making the kabobs.
Do you have a recipe you would like to share? Please email us at strollparkridge@gmail.com
A Dad is a person who is loving and kind, And often he knows what you have on your mind.
He’s someone who listens, suggest and defends.
A dad can be one of your very best friends!
He’s proud of your triumphs, but when things go wrong,
A dad can be patient and helpful and strong.
In all that you do, a dad’s love plays a part.
There’s always a place for him deep in our heart.
And each year that passes, you’re even more glad, More grateful and proud just to call him your dad!
Thank you, Dad....for listening and caring, for giving and sharing but especially, for just being you!
Happy Father’s Day
Dozens of Seniors honored with awards and scholarships for high achievement
Congratulations!
SATURDAY, JUNE 1 - SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26
7:00am - 1:00pm
Park Ridge Farmers Market
15 Prairie Ave. (between Maine and Garden)
Every Saturday thru October. Find a great selection of fruits, vegetables, and other local products. Save the date! Stroll Park Ridge will be there on June 15th giving away free Stroll farmers market bags. Please stop by the business tent to say hi! For more information please visit parkridge.us
SATURDAY, JUNE 1
8:00am -10:00am
Louis’ Loop - Liv for a Cure 5K Run/Walk
Washington Elementary School - Park Ridge
Liv for a Cure Foundation is dedicated to funding Cystic Fibrosis Research. This event is open to all runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. Stroll Park Ridge is a proud sponsor! For more information, visit livforacure.org
THURSDAY, JUNE 6
Last Day of School District 64
FRIDAY, JUNE 7
6:00pm - 9:00pm
Cruisin’ Park Ridge
Uptown Park Ridge- Library Parking lot
Free Community Event! Free to display your car. Live entertainment, activities for kids and more. Dates this summer: June 7th, July 12th, August 2nd, and September 6th.
SATURDAY, JUNE 8
9:00am - 3:00pm
Park Ridge Park District Summer Craft and Vendor Fair
Centennial Park
Sign up to be a vendor or come support local community crafters and small businesses. For more information, visit prparks.org
SATURDAY, JUNE 8
9:00am -12:00pm
Park Ridge Community Health Fair
Hodges Park~ 101 S. Courtland Ave.
Topics on healthy living, wellness, disease prevention and more.
SUNDAY, JUNE 9
25th Annual Walk for Kidneys
Diversey Harbour
Walk for Kidneys is a family-friendly celebration to make a difference in the fight against kidney disease. For more information and registration please visit nkfi.org
SUNDAY, JUNE 16
Father’s Day
TUESDAY, JUNE 18
6:00pm - 8:00pm
7th Annual Stroll Park Ridge Ice Cream Social
Dairy Queen- 2 Devon Ave. Park Ridge
Free Community Event! Enjoy DQ ice cream, burgers, and hot dogs. Free will donations will be accepted for the local Boy Scouts. Please rsvp to strollparkridgeevents@gmail.com
THURSDAY, JUNE 20
6:00pm - 9:00pm
Stroll Park Ridge Summer Social and Best of Park Ridge
2024 Readers Choice Awards Celebration
Studio 108 @ Harp & Fiddle
Enjoy complimentary heavy appetizers, entertainment with Tony Ocean, awards and cash bar. Best of Park Ridge winners will be awarded at the celebration in 50+ categories. Please rsvp to strollparkridge@gmail.com
THURSDAY, JUNE 20
6:00pm - 9:00pm
PRIDE in Park Ridge ~ A Celebration for All Ages Corner of Prospect and Crescent Hosted by inclusive congregations, community organizations, and volunteers. Enjoy music, food, and crafts. For more information, email amanda@ parkridgepresby.org
SATURDAY JUNE 22
2:00-4:00 pm
Center of Concern Golf for Good Mountain View Adventure Center 510 E Algonquin, Des Plaines www.centerofconcern.org
THURSDAY, JULY 25
5:00pm - 7:00pm
Stroll Super Supper Land & Lake - Rosemont
FREE community supper for all! Join us for another Stroll Super Supper! Free will donations will be accepted for The Harbour. RSVP strollparkridgeevents@gmail.com
Key Club Honors
Kiwanis honored the outstanding leadership and community service achievements of 20 students from Maine South High School Key Club.
The Next Generation
Stroll Park Ridge resident writer Joan Mattingly participated in the American News Women’s Club’s Excellence in Journalism Award event. Ms. Mattingly’s mother was a longtime member of ANWC and in her memory, her family has funded scholarships for college journalism students.
Get Caught Reading Story time with community leaders on the lawn of the Park Ridge Library.
Stroll Community Coffee
Always a happy gathering for the Stroll April Community Coffee. Join us this month, June 26th 9-10:15 at the Park Ridge Country Club. All are welcome!
Happy Hour at Tavern on the Point.
Cheer
Congratulations to Maine South Cheerleader Melanya Stefaniuk for placing third at the Cheerleading Worlds! Way to represent Maine South and Park Ridge!
Stroll Baby!
Stroll welcomes Dr. Ryan Maxwell from Silver Lining Chiropractic! We love the cute Little Stroller too!
Police Ride to School
Luca, a student at Carpenter, was given a ride to school in a squad car. Luca was the winner of the “Ride to School with a Police Officer” silent auction. The police escort also happened to be on his birthday!
Getting Ready for golf season! It was a Master’s Themed Party at the Park Ridge Country Club for the Ladies Golf Opening Party.
Maine South’s production of Pippin was nominated for the Illinois High School Musical Theater Awards, in the categories of Best Production for the musical as a whole and Best Performer in an Actor Role for junior George Spiegel.