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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.
STROLL BY OUR OFFICES!
Coffee is always on! 132 S. Prospect Ave. Suite 100A
Members of the Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge, along with local high school Key Clubs, made 100 bags of Mental Health Kits. A total of 300 bags were made this school year for local high schools.
Park Ridge Warriors 10U Blue Team winning 1-0 in the final to be the Lombard Tournament CHAMPIONS!
Community members celebrated STROLL Resident Writer Paul Hansen’s 80th birthday at our monthly Community Coffee. Happy Birthday, Paul!
Testing out new wheels at the Pedals for the Parks Bike Resale. STROLL Park Ridge was a proud sponsor.
All smiles at the annual Pedals for the Parks Bike Resale! STROLL Park Ridge was a proud sponsor.
Going for speed! Participants in the 2-3 year old division compete in a 50 yard dash. STROLL Park Ridge is a proud sponsor of the Healthy Kids Running Series. Photo by Lauren Frye Photography.
Park Ridge
Maine South High School fashion students competed at FCCLA State in Fashion competition events such as Visual Merchandising, Fashion Design, Sustainable Reconstruction and Fashion construction.
Maine South High School sophomore Sophia Ball competed in the Family, Community, Careers Leaders in America State in Fashion competition and is a national qualifier in Sustainable Reconstruction and Fashion Construction.
Community children participated in Rainbow for All Children’s Celebrate Me Day.
Presenting Sponsor Melissa Canning, along with Jess Canning, Rebecca Darr and Beth Lupo at the Park Ridge Newcomer’s Club’s “Run for the Rosé” Derby Party. STROLL Park Ridge was a proud sponsor.
Mary, Seat of Wisdom’s Angel Event GalaA Roaring Twenties theme in support of the school and parish community.
STROLL Book Club’s May gathering where community members discussed “Someone Else’s Shoes” by Jojo Meyers. Join us for our next monthly STROLL Book Club by emailing strollparkridge@gmail.com
Rainbows for All Children’s Program Coordinator Justine Fausch and community members facilitated Celebrate Me Day, bringing smiles to local children experiencing difficult times.
The Park Ridge Newcomer’s Club’s Board supported WINGS at their “Run for the Rosé” Derby Party. STROLL Park Ridge was a proud sponsor.
The Park Ridge Newcomer’s Club’s Philanthropy Committee at their “Run for the Rosé” Derby Party. STROLL Park Ridge was a proud sponsor.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
MONDAY, JUNE 1
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Park Ridge Strollers
132 S. Prospect Ave
Step into something good every Monday with the Park Ridge Strollers. ParkRidgeStrollers@gmail.com
TUESDAY, JUNE 2
9:00am -10:30am
FREE Weekly Park Ridge Playgroup, Sponsored by the Center for Creative Learning and Stroll Park Ridge
132 S. Prospect Ave.
Come play and socialize with other moms and children. Ages 5 and under. RSVP strollparkridgeevents@gmail.com
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3
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. Other dates: June 3, July 1, August 5, September 2, and October 7. parkridgechamber.org
FRIDAY, JUNE 5
Last Day of School - District 64; Mary, Seat of Wisdom; St. Paul of the Cross
FRIDAY, JUNE 5
4:00pm - 8:00pm Pride in Park Ridge Hodges Park
For event details, please visit: prideinparkridge.org
SATURDAY, JUNE 6SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31
7:00am - 1:00pm
Park Ridge Farmer’s Market 15 Prairie Ave (between Maine and Garden)
Every Saturday through the end of October. Find a great selection of fruits, vegetables, and other local products. parkridge.us
SATURDAY, JUNE 6
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. prparks.org
MONDAY, JUNE 8
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Park Ridge Strollers
132 S. Prospect Ave
Step into something good every Monday with the Park Ridge Strollers. ParkRidgeStrollers@gmail.com
TUESDAY, JUNE 9
9:00am -10:30am
FREE Weekly Park Ridge Playgroup, Sponsored by the Center for Creative Learning and Stroll Park Ridge
132 S. Prospect Ave.
Come play and socialize with other moms and children. Ages 5 and under. RSVP strollparkridgeevents@gmail.com
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Stroll Park Ridge Book Club
Email strollparkridgeevents@gmail.com to join! All are welcome!
SATURDAY, JUNE 13
9:00am - 1:00pm
Avenues to IndependenceWalking for Avenues
Maine South High School, 111 S. Dee Road
Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. Walk kicks off at 10:30 a.m.
A fundraising walk in support of adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Stroll Park Ridge is a proud sponsor. https://avenuestoindependence.org/
SUNDAY, JUNE 14
Flag Day
MONDAY, JUNE 15
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Park Ridge Strollers
132 S. Prospect Ave
Step into something good every Monday with the Park Ridge Strollers. ParkRidgeStrollers@gmail.com
TUESDAY, JUNE 16
9:00am -10:30am
FREE Weekly Park Ridge Playgroup, Sponsored by the Center for Creative Learning and Stroll Park Ridge
132 S. Prospect Ave.
Come play and socialize with other moms and children. Ages 5 and under.
RSVP strollparkridgeevents@gmail.com
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17
12:00pm - 2:00pm
Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge’s Annual Police/Fire/Community Service Award Luncheon
Harp & Fiddle, 110 Main Street
Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge hosts an annual Public Safety Awards Luncheon to recognize outstanding contributions from the police and fire departments, as well as community volunteers. https://kiwanispr.org
THURSDAY, JUNE 18
6:00pm - 9:00pm
Stroll SUMMER SOCIAL & Best of Park Ridge 2026 Readers Choice Awards Celebration!
Studio 108 @ Harp & Fiddle
Enjoy complimentary heavy appetizers, live entertainment,, DJ spinning all your favorite dance hits, awards and cash bar. Best of Park Ridge winners will be awarded at the celebration.
RSVP to strollparkridge@gmail.com
FRIDAY, JUNE 19
8:00pm - 9:30pm Concerts in the Park Hodges Park
Trabuco Latin Salsa Band’s music is feel good salsa for the soul! prparks.org
SUNDAY, JUNE 21
Father’s Day
SUNDAY, JUNE 21
10:00am -11:00am
Sunday Yoga in the Park Hodges Park
Join us in Hodges Park on Sunday mornings for free community yoga! Ages 5-12 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Stroll Park Ridge is a proud sponsor.
MONDAY, JUNE 22
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Park Ridge Strollers
132 S. Prospect Ave
Step into something good every Monday with the Park Ridge Strollers. ParkRidgeStrollers@gmail.com
TUESDAY, JUNE 23
9:00am -10:30am
FREE Weekly Park Ridge Playgroup, Sponsored by the Center for Creative Learning and Stroll Park Ridge 132 S. Prospect Ave.
Come play and socialize with other moms and children. Ages 5 and under. RSVP strollparkridgeevents@gmail.com
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24
9:00am -10:15am
June Stroll Park Ridge Monthly Community Coffee
Park Ridge Country Club, 636 N. Prospect Ave.
Don’t miss the Stroll Park Ridge Monthly coffee! This is open to all in the Park Ridge community. Thank you Sue Hall with @properties for sponsoring these fun monthly community coffees!
See you there! strollparkridge@gmail.com
FRIDAY, JUNE 26
8:00pm - 9:30pm Concerts in the Park Hodges Park Run Forrest Run is your answer to all things ‘90s! prparks.org
SATURDAY, JUNE 27
12:00 p.m.
Park Ridge Lions Club’s Doc Palliser Micro Marathon
The Harp & Fiddle 110 Main St.
This year’s event will support Compass to Care. For more details, please visit: parkridgelions.org
SUNDAY, JUNE 28
10:00am -11:00am Sunday Yoga in the Park Hodges Park
Join us in Hodges Park on Sunday mornings for free community yoga! Ages 5-12 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Stroll Park Ridge is a proud sponsor.
SUNDAY, JUNE 28
12:00pm - 5:00pm
Park Ridge Garden Club
Annual Garden Walk
Join the Park Ridge Garden Club for its annual garden walk. Proceeds from this event help benefit our local community such as horticultural education at local schools as well as the planting and maintenance of several public areas. https://parkridgegardenclub.org
MONDAY, JUNE 29
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Park Ridge Strollers
132 S. Prospect Ave
Step into something good every Monday with the Park Ridge Strollers. ParkRidgeStrollers@gmail.com
TUESDAY, JUNE 30
9:00am -10:30am
FREE Weekly Park Ridge Playgroup, Sponsored by the Center for Creative Learning and Stroll Park Ridge
132 S. Prospect Ave.
Come play and socialize with other moms and children. Ages 5 and under. RSVP strollparkridgeevents@gmail.com
FRIDAY, JULY 3
6:00pm -10:30pm
July 3rd Fireworks Celebration
Maine East High School2601 Dempster St.
Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary under the glow of a fantastic fireworks display! Dance party and children’s entertainment from 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. Live music entertainment begins at 8:00 p.m.
SATURDAY, JULY 4
9:00am -10:00am Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge4th of July Kiddie Day Parade Hodges Park Join us as we celebrate the 4th of July as we parade around Hodges Park escorted by the Park Ridge Fire & Police departments!
Use your imagination to decorate yourself, bikes, or wagons in patriotic colors or as a SuperHero! kiwanispr.org
SUNDAY, JULY 5
10:00am -11:00am Sunday Yoga in the Park Hodges Park
Join us in Hodges Park on Sunday mornings for free community yoga! Ages 5-12 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Stroll Park Ridge is a proud sponsor.
THURSDAY, JULY 9SATURDAY, JULY 11
Taste of Park Ridge Uptown
Thursday, July 9 - 11:00 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Friday, July 10 and Saturday, July 11 - 11:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Enjoy local food and family entertainment while celebrating our community. For more information, visit tasteofparkrifge.com
SUNDAY, JULY 12
10:00am -11:00am
Sunday Yoga in the Park Hodges Park
Join us in Hodges Park on Sunday mornings for free community yoga! Ages 5-12 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Stroll Park Ridge is a proud sponsor.
MONDAY, JULY 27
SAVE THE DATE! Avenues to Independence Gorman Golf Classic For more information, visit avenuestoindependence.org
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12
SAVE THE DATE! 3rd Annual Park Ridge Christmas Stroll and 2nd Annual Santa Stroll brought to you by STROLL Park Ridge. Details at www.strollparkridge.com
Scan the QR code to access our full online Community Calendar.
THEO DICKENSON
BY RESIDENT THEO DICKENSON
What school do you attend? I am a 3rd grader at Washington Elementary School.
What sport do you play and how long have you been playing? Baseball. I’ve been playing since I was 4.
What inspired you to get started with baseball? I wanted to try a new sport and have fun.
What positions do you play? I usually play outfield and sometimes 3rd base. I hope to play pitcher or catcher someday!
What do you enjoy most when playing your favorite sport? I like playing in the outfield, and when my team is up to bat. But I mostly enjoy being with my friends.
What is your proudest moment? I once made a quick stop of the ball while playing 3rd base and I got the runner out.
My coaches each year helped me learn how to field the ball. I also have to thank my parents for always encouraging me and playing baseball in the backyard.
Who is someone you admire? My teammate and friend, Grant Libby. He always encourages me to be better and he’s good at baseball.
What advice do you have for others looking to get into baseball? It’s fun! You have to work hard and focus, but it’s still a lot of fun.
Beyond sports, what do you like to do? I play hockey, do taekwondo and I play chess at Washington. I also enjoy collecting sports cards.
If you were to continue playing baseball, what do you hope to become or accomplish someday? I would like to practice to be a good pitcher someday!
Stroll Park Ridge is a proud sponsor of Theo’s team with Park Ridge Baseball & Softball. Come cheer on the Stroll team this summer!
BABY SPIRIT FOUNDATION Rooted in Compassion, Serving with Purpose
BY RESIDENT CONOR COONEY, MARKETING CHAIRMAN
THE BABY SPIRIT FOUNDATION serves local families and individuals who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss up to 12 months of age. We strive to lessen the family’s emotional burden over time by providing them with honorable funeral services, education, and an emotional support program. Founded by Park Ridge locals, this mission is deeply personal to us and rooted right here in the community.
What types of services do you offer? We provide completely free funeral services for local families who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss, removing the financial burden during an already incredibly difficult time. We also focus heavily on emotional support—staying connected with families, offering guidance, and simply being there for them in the days and months that follow. Our goal is to walk alongside families, not just in the moment, but through their grief journey.
What inspired you to dedicate your time to this cause? I’ve had family and close friends unfortunately go through pregnancy loss, and seeing that up close really sticks with you. It makes you realize how often it happens and how little support there can be in those moments. After having my own child, I realized just how big of a blessing a healthy baby is. That’s what drives me to
stay involved and do something meaningful for families going through it.
What’s been the most rewarding part of working with this organization? The most meaningful part has been seeing the direct impact on local families. Being able to step in during such a difficult time and take even a small burden off their shoulders really matters.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
We host two main fundraisers each year—our Gold Souls Event in March and another during Pregnancy Loss Awareness Week in October. Both are really meaningful opportunities for us to come together as a community and continue supporting families. We’re always looking to grow support through donations, company matches, grants, and new partnerships. Every contribution truly makes a difference in helping us reach more families. Anyone interested in getting involved can visit www.babyspirit.org or follow us on social @babyspiritfoundation.
The Baby Spirit Foundation www.babyspirit.org conor@babyspirit.org
The Baby Spirit Foundation’s board members at their annual Golden Souls Fundraiser.
Supporting local families during Pregnancy Loss Week.
MEET THE LOERA
S’mores finale
Happy Father’s Day!
Where it all started.
Tell us about your family. Rick, Megan, George (6), Craig (4), Henry (3), Margot (1), and Owen (6 months).
What university did you attend? The University of Iowa where I spent most of my focus on the varsity wrestling team. Megan attended National Louis and got a degree in Elementary Education.
How did you and your spouse meet? We met while working at the Buffalo Grove Lou Malnati’s - love at first slice!
Where did you and your wife grow up? I grew up in Norwood Park and we moved to Park Ridge when I was 12. I went to Lincoln and Maine South. Megan grew up in Hoffman Estates. We love Park Ridge because it’s small town America right next to one of the best cities in the world. Being in Park Ridge for a while before we got married and started our family gave us time to get a feel for the community as adults and we decided we didn’t want to be anywhere else.
What is your profession? I’m a Mortgage Advisor at Rate Mortgage. Megan taught 4th grade but now has the hardest job of all at home with all the kids.
Tell us about your kids. I coach at the Maine Eagles Wrestling Club and the three oldest come to practice with me. George loves baseball and Minecraft and Craig loves wrestling and soccer. Henry just likes hanging out at home with his mama.
Does your family have any unique talents or interests? Megan is the CEO of our household. The way she coordinates everything for the kids while enriching all of our lives impresses me every day. I have an Instagram account @TheBurbFather that has brought the community together with laughs about our area and tips for young families like mine.
What inspired you to create your popular Instagram account? I started it years ago for my business. My wife suggested I start doing more funny and local stuff and it took off. It’s fun to entertain everyone and showcase our awesome community. Most of my ideas are spur of the moment, so I just hit record and post - just like my Silent Bears Celebration which went viral during the playoffs this year.
What’s your favorite part of living in the community? Going on walks with the family around the pond at Maine Park. There are many great families around us and I enjoy being outside hearing kids running around the block.
What’s your ideal summer family weekend in Park Ridge look like? An ideal weekend for us right now would be watching George play t-ball and Craig soccer, followed by having friends over for a BBQ with a campfire and s’mores finale.
How are you celebrating Father’s Day? I’m a simple man. Family, perfectly grilled steak, and sunshine. I’m happy.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about your family? We’re White Sox fans, however, with how bad they’ve been I’ll be okay if any of the kids go for the Cubs.
Why do you think it’s important to share stories like yours in Stroll? This community isn’t anything without the great people in it. It {Stroll} celebrates the family centered approach Park Ridge has and we are proud to be a small part in this great town.
SUMMER Stroll
BY RESIDENT PAUL HANSEN
I am so happy June is here
It means summer fun is near
School will soon be out for all
So many things to do before fall
Concerts in Hodges Pak
Kids playing outside til dark
Bike riding all day long
Singing along to summer songs
Classic car shows in the library lot
It goes by too fast believe it or not
Walks passing neighbors saying hi!
Amazing sunsets in the sky
Vacations take many out of town
We miss them when they are not around
The evening soothing cricket’s sounds
Warm days and cool nights
It all feels just right
We all need to just slow down
Enjoying the beauty all around
The beautiful flowers everywhere you look
Time to relax reading a great book
Summer storms roll in now and then
Reminding us of past summers when Life was full of such great fun
I wish summer fun to everyone
Classics shown at Cruisin’ Park Ridge
Concerts in Hodges Park
6 Saturday, July 4, 202
9 am -10 am City Hall - Hodges Park Park Ridge, IL
This Year's Theme ........... Super Heros & 4th of July! Use your imagination to decorate yourself, bikes, wagons, & pets!
Ribbons will be awarded to winners: Best Individual - Best Group OPEN:
KiwanisPR.org
Our 4 Story House
BY RESIDENT SCOTT CASTELLANOS
There are a couple of famous country songs named “Two Story House”. They are very different from one another but essentially have one thing in common; they talk about people being in the same place but having different experiences. I have a feeling summer will be like that for us this year. You see we have a 400 lb. gorilla sitting in our summer, because my oldest son has graduated from high school and will be off to college.
My youngest son’s story will most likely be the most ‘normal’ summer. Football camp, caddying, hanging out with his friends and girlfriend. Generally, just having a little more time for fun and less on his daily plate.
My college-bound son may think he will have a similar summer, but I have a feeling life has more in store for him. Even though we keep telling him, I don’t think it has fully sunk in all that will need to happen in the next couple of months. He’ll still have
fun, but obligations and responsibility will be mixed in more than ever. I am assuming it will be something like: work, party, work, vacation, work, placement testing, work, orientation, work, hanging with friends, and did I mention work? So, his story will be an intro into adulthood.
My wife’s story, I am sure, will be full on mama bear mode. Preparation, family dinners and outings. Really squeezing every moment of family time she can get, and I am sure she will sprinkle in some cuddles on the couch before he leaves for dorm-life. Although I know how her story will end. Spoiler alert, there will be tears and plenty of them.
I don’t quite know how mine will play out yet. I suppose I could be extra fun and lenient and I definitely won’t get cranky when I think about my son going away. Of course, there will be no need to stock up on tissues for me because I will be wise, stoic and prepared for it all. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it.
PITCHING INTO SUMMER
Jay Beckemeyer’s Game Plan for Sunshine & Fun
BY RESIDENT & JUNIOR WRITER HARRIET HART
JAY IS A 2ND GRADER at St. Paul of the Cross School. This summer you may see him around town hitting a home run, at the farmers market eating a hot dog, or at Oberweis!
What street do you live on? Belle Plaine Ave.
Do you have any siblings? Callie (7) and Huck (5)
What are you looking forward to this summer? Swimming
What is your favorite thing to do during the summer? Wake boarding
What is your favorite sport to play in the summer? Baseball
What position do you play in baseball?
What is the best thing about it? Pitcher and 1st base. I like that you get to be a part of every play.
Where is the best spot to get ice cream this summer in Park Ridge? Oberweis
Which pool is the best in Park Ridge? Centennial, because it is big and it has good slides.
Are you doing any summer camps this summer? Dangerous Boys camp at Northridge Prep, wakeboard camp, and Park Ridge sports camp.
What is your favorite rainy day activity? Going to the Pickwick for a movie and going to Oakton for open turf playtime!
Are you going on any vacations this summer? I am going to my lake house in Arkansas.
Do you do anything special on the last day of school? Leave for vacation and get ice cream!
What was your favorite subject in school this year? Math
What is the best food to eat in the summer?
Any farmers market food, especially Kona Ice and hot dogs at the hot dog stand!
What is your favorite restaurant to go to in Park Ridge? Chipotle
What is one thing you were proud that you accomplished this school year? Making my First Communion!
If you could have a perfect summer day what would it look like? Go to the farmers market, wakeboard, play outside, and make a fire.
If you could go anywhere for vacation during the summer, where would you go? Rocky Mountain National Park.
A Stroll DOWN MEMORY LANE
BY FORMER RESIDENT AND AUTHOR VIC LARSON
IN DECEMBER 1955, a construction permit was issued for what became known as the Park Ridge Inn. As you can see, smoking and collecting matchbooks was encouraged in those days. The property later became Summit Square Retirement Hotel. Following extensive renovations, it is now The Summit of Uptown Assisted Living & Memory Care.
DID YOU KNOW?
BY RESIDENT JOAN MATTINGLY
DID YOU KNOW... that the Sprite in the front yard at 529 South Greenwood is a wood carving completed in homage to Alfonso Iannelli, an early Park Ridge resident and artist? Italian-born Iannelli came to the States to study with sculptor Gutzon Borglum, later famous for Mount Rushmore. Iannelli designed posters for the Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles. Frank Lloyd Wright’s son, John, introduced the artist to his father who invited Iannelli to work with him on his Midway Gardens Project in 1914.
Iannelli created his famous SPRITES for the Wright’s Midway Gardens project (1914), which was closed and torn down in 1929 due to Prohibition. Several SPRITES were salvaged; some are at the Art Institute; one is at the Kalo Studios in Park Ridge.
Park Ridge resident Dave McKenzie, whose family moved to Park Ridge in 1950, graduated from Maine South in 1967 and bought his own Park Ridge home in 1983. An architecture student at the start, McKenzie switched to medicine and had a career as an General Surgeon at Lutheran General Hospital.
McKenzie has had a “long-term interest in Wright, design and architecture in general.” He became interested in the Iannelli Sprite after seeing similar examples in several Wright buildings.
McKenzie reports, “I finally decided that I could build one myself. So, what you see is carved from a 6x6 cedar post.” In the 40+ years that the family has lived at their home at Greenwood & Belle Plaine, McKenzie has added many embellishments, both interior and exterior, working in his basement workshop. The striking orange blocks on the home’s exterior are an example as is the welcoming gate on the Belle Plaine facade.
Park Ridge is blessed with so many different residential styles. Homeowners work to make their house a home, devising personal touches that reflect their lifestyle and interests.
McKenzie said, “I’m always flattered at the interest in my house. It has been a hobby/passion of mine for many years.”
You are invited to Stroll on over to admire this stunning work of art on Greenwood & Belle Plaine!
Dave McKenzie standing next to the cedar SPRITE that he created and placed at the front of his home.
to the publisher so we can share it in our pages!
FENWICK NEARS CENTENNIAL
Building on a Strong Foundation
LEGACY. ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE. FAITH FORMATION. These are the characteristics that define Fenwick High School.
Nearly 95 years after its inception, the private Catholic school continues to thrive, in part due to its strong leadership. Dr. John Finan and Col. Otto Rutt have taken the reins as principal and president, respectively, over the last year.
Returning to Fenwick is a full-circle moment for Dr. Finan. A 1987 alum, his father, three brothers, and eight nieces and nephews also attended the school, and it’s where he began his teaching career in 1991.
“I have a multiple generational allegiance to this school. It has had such a profound impact on my family and so many others,” he said.
Col. Rutt, a 1979 graduate, brings a unique perspective shaped by decades of military service and leadership. After earning his economics degree from Harvard in just three years, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps, serving two combat tours as a pilot. Along the way, he also earned an MBA from the University of Chicago.
He said, “I relish both the history of the Marine Corps and Fenwick. They are similar in many ways, particularly in the context of excellence and expectation.”
BY STROLL STAFF
“Our expectations are high and we raise the bar every day. There is a lot of energy throughout our halls and classrooms. Everyone wants to excel and that is deeply rewarding.”
The Fenwick experience is steeped in Dominican Catholic values. The school’s mission is to inspire excellence and educate each student to lead, achieve and serve. They accomplish this through a liberal arts-based education that focuses on five areas: the Person, the Believer, the Citizen, the Scholar and the Athlete.
Col. Rutt said, “We are very energetic about academic excellence and whole-person excellence. We offer anything our students want to pursue.”
The strength of their education is also built on their staff. Dr Finan said they have been fortunate through the years to find talented teachers who are passionate about their subject matter Four such faculty members were part of the school’s first co-ed graduating class and have grown into valued educators over the last 20 years.
Fenwick continues to innovate its facilities and curriculum. The centennial edition of their strategic plan has them embarking on an addition that will provide 40% more square footage, including an additional field house, ground-level dining hall, state-of-the-art music hall, makerspace, studio space, more classrooms and improved technology.
They also continue to build on their course offerings. Recently, they began offering a business incubator class where students work in teams to develop business or product ideas. They have the opportunity to learn from alumni and business mentors, and even have the opportunity to receive financial support for their plans.
Other classes being added to the lineup include:
• Women in American Story social studies course that meets graduation requirements and is one of several that fulfills the state civics requirement
• AP Cybersecurity class that’s being piloted in the 20252026 school year and also offers an industry credential
• Project Lead the Way, a pre-engineering course sequence
• Personal and Financial Literacy course
“This school is very important to me. It’s a thrill for me to be here every day with the coaches, leaders, students and faculty,” said Col. Rutt. “Our expectations are high and we raise the bar every day. There is a lot of energy throughout our halls and classrooms. Everyone wants to excel and that is deeply rewarding.”
While alumni connections run deep, Dr. Finan emphasized that all families are welcome, no matter their background.
“We strive to make everyone feel like they belong from day one,” he said.
With 970 students from 86 zip codes and 150 grade schools, Fenwick’s reach is wide – and growing. Will your family be the next one impacted? Learn more at fenwickfriars.com.
READY, SET, GO!
4 ESSENTIALS FOR A LONG RUN
Intimidated to start a long run? Don’t be! With these five essentials, tackle the road mile after mile with confidence.
1. The Right Running Shoe: Don't let the wrong footwear derail your routine. We dive into the features to look for in a running shoe, ensuring you find the perfect fit for comfort and performance.
2. Sunscreen: Protect your skin while enjoying the outdoors. Find out how to choose the right SPF and application tips to keep you safe from the sun's rays.
3. Energy Booster: Hit the wall? Not anymore. Reach for the best quick-fuel options to keep your stamina up and your pace strong. Great options include energy chews, goos or a power waffle.
4. Headphones + a good playlist: The secret weapon against monotony is a killer playlist.
Stop training injuries before they start. Learn how the right gear, smart fueling, and a balanced schedule are the keys to crossing the finish line healthy.
BY CAROLINE EDWARDS
Ready to tackle a half or full marathon? That finish line might seem far away, but every great race starts with one smart step. Training for 13.1 or 26.2 miles is an incredible journey, and with a realistic roadmap and a warm spirit, you can get there safely.
The foundation of any successful training cycle is building endurance safely. Don't increase your mileage too quickly; the "10% rule" — never increasing your weekly mileage by more than ten percent — is your best friend for preventing common running injuries. Structure your multi-week schedule to include variety: a long, slow run, speed work (e.g., tempo runs or intervals), and strength-training days are all essential. Remember, rest days are not optional. They are essential to allow your muscles to rebuild and get stronger. To keep your body happy, focus on proper nutrition and hydration throughout. Before race day, "mastering the fuel" is critical. Practice what you’ll eat and drink during your long runs, experimenting with gels, sports drinks, and whole foods until you find what works for your stomach.
Finally, don't forget mental preparation. Envisioning success and developing a simple mantra will help you push through tough miles. Trust your training, show up at the starting line prepared, and remember: you are ready.
drozdesign.co
instagram.com/eric.drozd
Photography by Margaret Rajic Styling by Studio O cer
Beautiful Sk St
Squeals, Sprints, & Sneaky Snacks MEET MILLIE
BY RESIDENT SARAH WALTER
Tell us about your pet. Millie is a Lab/Pit mix pup and is 4 years old.
When and how did Millie come to join your family? After we settled in Park Ridge, we were missing having a pet! We stopped by Wrightway Rescue and there she was - one visit and left with the cutest little puppy. We surprised the kids that afternoon after school.
Is there a story behind your pet’s name? We let our kids choose her name. Ironically it’s Sarah’s grandmother’s name, which they didn’t know, so it was very cute how they landed on it!
ts W h Exp t C e By customizing face and body treatments to the individual needs of the patient, Uptown Med Spa can refresh and enhance an already beautiful you! Follow along with Millie’s adventures @Silly_Millie_2022
What makes Millie stand out from the rest? Millie has an extra special skill that we didn’t expect. About a year after we adopted Millie our daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. Millie has become her unofficial service dog. If Avery is experiencing low blood sugar, Millie will alert us and wake Avery up in the middle of the night. She won’t leave her bed until Avery is back in normal range. It’s truly special and makes her one of a kind.
Does she have any unique talents or tricks? Millie’s best trick is sneaking food from the counter when we aren’t looking! She can also sit, shake, rollover and spin and plays an
Tell us about your favorite memory with Millie. Our favorite memory is surprising the kids with a puppy!
What does Millie enjoy doing in the neighborhood? Millie LOVES going on runs with Dave - as soon as the weather gets nice they will go run 5 miles usually 3-4 times per week. She squeals for about the first mile because she’s so excited to go!
If Millie could choose any adventure to go on, what Millie’s best adventure is wherever we are! She loves going for rides in convertibles, on boats and has supported Avery on flights.
What is her “pet peeve”? Anyone that comes to our front door! She’s a major watch dog.
Your ne ig hbor s. Your community.
At Avenues to Independence, the individuals we serve are active members of the Park Ridge community—working, building relationships, and contributing in meaningful ways every day.
C hance s are , you’ ve se e n familiar face s like the se around town.
You might recognize Bill from Jewel-Osco, where he’s known for his speed, focus, and friendly attitude. Bill
Dan
On most Sundays, you'll find Dan at First UMC Park Ridge, where he’s an active and valued member of the congregation.
A nnie
You may have seen Annie around Park Ridge where she’s a regular at the local Panera Bread.
For more than 70 years, we ' ve grown our presence in Park Ridge, and now serve more than 250 adults in our residential, day services, and other programs. We're proud to be a par t of this vibrant and suppor tive community that helps the individuals we serve live with independence and dignity.
Donate , volunte e r, and le arn more !
“This is a family favorite and couldn’t be any easier to make!”
JOANNE VOLDEN
Joanne’s Simple Grilled Steak Salad
BY RESIDENT JOANNE VOLDEN
IT’S GRILLING SEASON and what better way to enjoy a casual summer supper than with steak and fresh greens! Let us know how you do with this one! Easy peasy and so tasty!
INGREDIENTS:
• 1/3 cup of soy sauce
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• Fresh ground pepper
• ~2 lb of steak (flank, skirt, or flap work best)
• Arugula
• Romaine
• 1 cucumber, chopped
• 1 - 2 avocado, diced
• 1 green onion, sliced
• 3 oz feta cheese
• Shaved parmesan to top
• Your favorite salad dressing to top
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Whisk together the soy sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic cloves, pepper. Marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes up to overnight in the fridge.
2. Don’t forget to let your steak come to room temperature before grilling! Grill 3 - 5 minutes per side depending on how you like your steak. Let it rest before slicing against the grain.
3. Toss together the remaining ingredients. Top with your sliced steak and enjoy!
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!
