SEPTEMBER 2026
Park Ridge
STROLLIN’ WITH THE MEZA FAMILY Celebrating the 100th issue of Stroll Park Ridge! COVER PHOTO BY ANTHONY TRIPP PHOTOGRAPHY
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September 2026
STROLL Park Ridge
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UNDER CONTRACT
19 N Seminary, Park Ridge
UNDER CONTRACT
FOR SALE
1319 N Wood St Unit 3C, Chicago
UNDER CONTRACT
6815 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles
UNDER CONTRACT
839 E Thacker, Des Plaines
8626 W North Terr, Niles
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
1344 S Chester Ave, Park Ridge
2301 Farrell Ave, Park Ridge
With interest rates coming down, now is an excellent time to consider moving or buying.
suemhall@atproperties.com 4
September 2026
JustSoldSue
741 W. Devon Ave. | Park Ridge
Don't Find a House. Find Your Home. Contact me today to see how I can help find your next dream home.
Sue Hall Top Agent Office: 847.692.5522 Cell: 847.917.3188
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This section is here to give our readers easier access when searching for a trusted 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! ATTORNEY YSB Legal LLC (312) 322-0955 www.ysblegal.com
Sugar Plum Tree Preschool, Inc. (847) 823-1978 sugarplumtree.net
HEATING/COOLING Home Comfort Services, Inc HomeComfort.net
DENTIST Dr. Niki R. Laskaris, DDS (847) 823-6400 nikilaskarisdds.com
INSURANCE AGENCY Tunnell Insurance Agency Inc. (847) 306-8660 tunnellagency.com
Uptown Auto Repair (847) 698-2527 uptownautoparkridge.com
DENTISTS Park Ridge Smile Center (847) 825-2277 parkridgesmilecenter.com
INTERIOR DESIGNER Drozd Design Co. (847) 313-5788 www.drozdesign.co
BEAUTY Amara Skin and Wellness (847) 220-8589 amaraskinandwellness.com
DERMATOLOGY AND MOHS SKIN CANCER SURGERY North Branch Dermatology (773) 763-6000 www.northbranchdermatology.com
LAW Law Office of Magdalena A. Murzanski, LLC Magdalena Murzanski (847) 533-7053 MagMurLaw.com
Dermani Medspa (224) 985-3932 www.dermanimedspa/parkridge
FITNESS/PERSONAL FITNESS Orange Shoe Personal Fitness - Park Ridge (630) 890-9786 www.orangeshoe.com
AUTO REPAIR Skylark Garage (847) 823-8711 www.skylarkgarage.com
FadeAway Medical Esthetics (773) 744-0738 fadeawaymedicalesthetics.com Hollywood Skin (630) 341-0844 www.Hwskin.com Uptown Med Spa (847) 696-7282 pruptownmedspa.com
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FUNERAL HOME Cumberland Chapels (708) 456-8300 cumberlandchapels.com GYM / BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU Premier Jiu-Jitsu Academy (224) 423-7595 www.premierbjjacademy.com
CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL Resurrection College Prep High School reshs.org
HEAD SPA mad headspa (847) 696-7135 www.madheadspa.com
CUSTOM CLOSETS Closets By Design (630) 501-0190 www.closetsbydesign.com
HEALTH Marshall Medical Group (773) 710-9080 n/a
DANCE Lynnette’s School of Dance (847) 823-7334 lynnettesschoolofdance.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS Evolve MD Concierge Medicine (224) 985-9530 www.evolvemdchicago.com
DAYCARE/PRESCHOOL Christie’s Carousel of Learning (847) 825-4568 www.christiescarousel.com
HEALTH/WELLNESS IV Nutrition Park Ridge (224) 985-5405 www.ivnutrition.com
September 2026
LIGHTING SHOWROOM Fox Lighting Gallery (773) 282-6300 www.foxlighting.com MASSAGE/WELLNESS Vive! Therapeutic Massage (847) 637-0002 vivemassage.com MUSIC SCHOOL Yevgeniya Lepskaya’s School of Music (773) 319-5108 www.artofmusicschool.us NON-PROFIT Avenues to Independence (847) 292-0870 www.avenuestoindependence.org OPTOMETRIST Norwood Park Eye Center (773) 867-6165 www.norwoodparkeyecenter.com ORAL, FACIAL AND IMPLANT SURGERY Chicago Oral Surgery & Implant Center (312) 620-1926 www.oralsurgerychi.com ORTHODONTIC DiFranco Orthodontics (847) 318-7711 www.difranco-ortho.com
PAINTER CertaPro Painters of Des Plaines/ NW Chicago (847) 376-8215 www.certapro.com/desplaines
Olympian Plumbing (312) 241-0951 OlympianPlumbing.com
PARK DISTRICT Park Ridge Park District (847) 692-5127 prparks.org
REALTORS @properties Sue M. Hall (847) 692-5522 justsoldsue.com
PLUMBER Nuzzo Sewer & Plumbing (773) 625-6280 www.nuzzoplumbing.com
RESTAURANT/ENTERTAINMENT Village of Rosemont (847) 993-8312 rosemont.com
strollmag.com Delivering Neighborhood Connections © 2026 The N2 Company, Inc. We’re proud to showcase businesses that share our commitment to fostering local connections. When perusing our pages, keep an eye out for the “Local Sponsor” icon to identify articles highlighting these valuable partners. Please note that businesses profiled may have provided free products and / or services for the review.
SENIOR SERVICES AMADA Senior Care Northshore (847) 324-9450 AMADAnorthshore.com VEIN AND AESTHETIC CHICAGO VEINCARE CENTER (847) 983-0445 www.yourveinexpert.com
DISCLAIMER: This publication, also known as Park Ridge Living, is owned by The N2 Company (“N2”) and is not affiliated with or sponsored by any club, developer, or homeowners association. The articles and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of N2. Advertisements appearing in this publication are paid placements and are not endorsed or recommended by N2. N2 is not responsible for the statements, opinions, or business practices of any authors, contributors, or advertisers featured herein. Portions of this publication may include content created with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) tools by authors or contributors and may not be independently verified by N2.
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IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS 911 (847) 318-5252 (847) 318-5283 (800) 222-1222
EMERGENCY Fire Police & Ambulance Park Ridge Police NonEmergency Fire Department NonEmergency Poison Control Hotline
(847) 318-5240 (800) 244-1977 (800) 334-7661 (888) 642-6748 (866) 796-9669 (888) 824-2273 (800) 244-4444
UTILITIES Public Works Dept Groot - Garbage Pickup ComEd Nicor Gas Wide Open West Comcast AT&T
(312) 322-6777 (847) 364-7223
TRANSPORTATION Metra PACE
(847) 823-3101 (847) 692-5127 (847) 692-3597
RECREATION Park Ridge Country Club Park Ridge Park District Senior Center
(847) 318-5200 (224) 585-3148 (847) 318-5216 (847) 825-3123
CITY Park Ridge City Hall Park Ridge Mayor Park Ridge City Manager Park Ridge Library
(847) 318-4300 (847) 696-3600
SCHOOLS District 64 Office District 207 Office
(877) 863-6338 (800) 252-2873 (833) 2FIND-HELP 988 (847) 221-5680
HOTLINES Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline Child Abuse Hotline Illinois Helpline for Opioids and Other Substances Suicide and Crisis Lifeline WINGS Program Domestic Violence Hotline
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 Uptown Park Ridge 8
September 2026
MEET THE TEAM
PUBLISHER /EDITOR
Dolly Caravette McCarthy (630) 272-7582 dolly.mccarthy @n2co.com
CONTENT COORDINATOR
Jenny Ramundo strollparkridge@ gmail.com
PARK RIDGE STROLLERS COORDINATOR
Michele Thill parkridgestrollers @gmail.com
STROLL AMBASSADOR LEAD
Katie Mainwaring strollambassador spr@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Anthony Tripp Photography amtphotos2011 @gmail.com RESIDENT WRITERS
Scott Castellanos
Paul Hansen
Harriet Hart
Josette Steinfels
Allen Ackermann
Tiffany Gienko
Joan Mattingly
JUNIOR WRITER
STROLL AMBASSADORS
MEDIA MANAGER
Mina Vintila
AD SALES MANAGER
Michelle D’Amico michellemd95@ gmail.com
Campbell Micek DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONS TEAM
Marianna Miulli
Alyssa Sabatino
Ava Novak
Feel Your Best From the Inside Out
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE
SEPTEMBER - Coming Together Park Ridge!
As summer winds down, we’re looking forward to a fall filled with opportunities to connect. That spirit of connection feels especially meaningful as we celebrate the 100th issue of Stroll Park Ridge. For 100 issues, we’ve had the privilege of bringing neighbors together, sharing the stories of the people who make Park Ridge special, and celebrating the community we’re so fortunate to call home. Join us for our Community Coffee on the last Wednesday of each month at the Park Ridge Country Club from 9 to 10:15 a.m. Our Stroll Park Ridge Book Club also meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. Details are inside this issue, and all are welcome! We’re also preparing for the Park Ridge Christmas Stroll and Santa Stroll 5K. We’re looking for volunteers and sponsors to help make these holiday traditions special. Email us for details on how you can get involved with this very special tradition! I really do look forward to seeing you at an upcoming gathering! Enjoy the Stroll... and here’s to hundreds of more issues of your community magazine!
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September 2026
LETS GET TOGETHER!
Stroll for a Cause with Santa Clause! SATURDAY DECEMBER 12
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A BENEFIT FOR AVENUES TO INDEPENDENCE
7AM CHECK IN - 8AM START THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
WWW.STROLLPARKRIDGE.COM
REGISTER EARLY!
You should be here! Stroll Park Ridge Monthly Community Coffees! September 30th, 9-10:15 AM Don’t miss the Stroll Park Ridge Monthly Coffee! Open to all in the Park Ridge community. Our next community coffees will take place on Wednesday, September 30th and Wednesday, October 28th from 9 - 10:15 AM at the Park Ridge Country Club. Thanks to Sue Hall @ properties for hosting these fun community gatherings! We look forward to seeing you all!
A BEAUTIFUL LIFE
Starts With A Beautiful Home. LET’S MAKE IT BEAUTIFUL. drozdesign.co instagram.com/eric.drozd Photography by Margaret Rajic Styling by Studio Officer STROLL Park Ridge
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NUZZO
SEWER & PLUMBING Comprehensive Sewer Services All Sewer Repairs and Installations | Power Rodding Sewer Lines and Drain Lines Installation of Sewer Cleanouts | Video Inspection and Sewer Pipe Locating
Comprehensive Plumbing Services All Plumbing Repairs and Installations | Toilets | Sinks | Faucets | Bathtubs Water Heaters | Ejector Pumps | Sump Pumps | Water Lines
Specialties Flood Control | Plumbing Rehab and Remodeling | Backflow Assembly Testing
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773-625-6280 www.nuzzoplumbing.com Family Owned Business Established In 1948 Licensed, Bonded and Insured
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September 2026
100 ISSUES
Countless Stories and Connections. One Community.
Our very first issue June 2018!
THIS ISSUE MARKS AN EXCITING STROLL MILESTONE— OUR 100TH EDITION! For 100 issues, we have had the privilege of sharing the people, stories, businesses, and special moments that make Park Ridge such a wonderful community. Along the way, we are proud to have featured an estimated 10,000 residents within our pages. Our impact has extended beyond storytelling. Stroll has donated 8% of advertising sales to local nonprofit organizations in support of efforts to fight human trafficking. With the incredible generosity and support of our readers, we have also helped raise more than $275,000 for local nonprofits serving our community. We are so proud and honored to be Park Ridge’s storytellers— recording and celebrating all that is good and positive in our town. Thank you to our residents, local businesses, nonprofit partners, and loyal readers for sharing your lives and stories with us over the years. Here’s to 100 issues of connection, community, and meaningful impact—and to many more to come!
STROLL Park Ridge
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LOCAL EVENTS
Community Events FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Maine South Varsity Football Home Game vs. Maine West
Maine South High School, 1111 S Dee Rd. https://south.maine207.org
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31 7:00am - 1:00pm
Park Ridge Farmer’s Market 15 Prairie Avenue (between Main & Garden) Every Saturday through the end of October. Find a great selection of fruits, vegetables, and other local products. parkridge.us
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 Labor Day WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Stroll Park Ridge Book Club
Hay Caramba! Restaurant 122 S. Prospect Ave. Email strollparkridgeevents@gmail.com to join! All are welcome!
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 - SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 5:00pm -10:00am
Park Ridge Park District Backyard Campout
Wildwood Nature Center Camp out with your family in the Park District’s backyard. www.prparks.org
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 9:00am -10:00am
9/11 Memorial Service
City Hall, 505 Butler Place
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 9:00am -12:30pm
Park Ridge Newcomers Club Kids Sale Park Ridge Presbyterian Church, 1300 W. Crescent Ave. The Park Ridge Newcomers Club Kids Sale will be hosting their Kids Sale. Get quality, gently used children’s items at reasonable prices. Stroll Park Ridge is a proud sponsor of this event. www. parkridgenewcomersclub.org/kidssale
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Misericordia Family Fest
Misericordia Home 6300 N. Ridge Ave. Chicago Misericordia’s largest fundraising event of the year brings our families, friends and neighbors together for a day of celebration that has something for everyone — you don’t want to miss it! https://mfa-sibs.org/
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 11:00am -12:00pm
Healthy Kids Running Series Park Ridge
Maine South High School Join us for a running program for kids of all abilities, ages 2-14. For more information, please visit https:// runsignup.com/hkrsparkridgeil Stroll Park Ridge is a proud sponsor.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 10:30am - 7:00pm
Have Dreams Golf Classic
Kemper Lakes Golf Club www.havedreams.org/events
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Park Ridge Strollers
132 S. Prospect Ave. Step into something good every Monday with the Park Ridge Strollers. For more info: ParkRidgeStrollers@gmail.com
SAVING FERRIS BUTLER SEPTEMBER 18–24, 2026 Pickwick Theatre Saving Ferris Butler explores the fascinating life of Ferris Butler, a comedian, writer and television pioneer who claims he inspired the name and character of Ferris Bueller. The documentary examines Butler’s groundbreaking 1970s cable-access series Waste Meat News, his experience as a writer and performer during Saturday Night Live’s famously troubled 1980–81 season, and the controversy surrounding one of the most recognizable characters in movie history. For tickets and showtimes: https://www.pickwicktheatre.com/movie/ saving-ferris-butler
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 7:00am -11:00am
Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge 42nd Annual Pancake Breakfast
Park Ridge Presbyterian Church, 1300 W. Crescent Proceeds benefit local charities for children, teens and young adults. www. kiwanispr.org
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 11:00am -12:00pm
Healthy Kids Running Series Park Ridge
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September 2026
Maine South High School
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26
Join us for a running program for kids of all abilities, ages 2-14. For more information, please visit https:// runsignup.com/hkrsparkridgeil Stroll Park Ridge is a proud sponsor.
12:00pm - 9:00pm Trucktoberfest Hodges Park www.prparks.org
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21
11:00am -12:00pm
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Park Ridge Strollers
132 S. Prospect Ave. Step into something good every Monday with the Park Ridge Strollers. For more info: ParkRidgeStrollers@gmail.com
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Maine South Varsity Football Home Game vs. Niles West
Maine South High School, 1111 S Dee Rd. https://south.maine207.org
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 Healthy Kids Running Series Park Ridge
Maine South High School Join us for a running program for kids of all abilities, ages 2-14. For more information, please visit https:// runsignup.com/hkrsparkridgeil Stroll Park Ridge is a proud sponsor.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Park Ridge Strollers
132 S. Prospect Ave. Step into something good every Monday with the Park Ridge Strollers. For more info: ParkRidgeStrollers@gmail.com
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 9:00am -10:15am
September 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
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3 WINGS 26th Annual Purple Tie Ball Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel - 1551 Thoreau Dr N, Schaumburg
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12 SAVE THE DATE! 3rd Annual Park Ridge Christmas Stroll and 2nd Annual Santa Stroll 5k Brought to You by STROLL Park Ridge Uptown Park Ridge A full day of holiday fun with Santa, Buddy the Elf, Classic train displays, music, performances, and more! All of this to benefit Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge and Avenues to Independence. Details at www.strollparkridge.com We are looking for amazing volunteers and sponsors! Email strollparkridgeevents@gmail.com for more details.
Scan the QR code to access our full online Community Calendar.
Ballet • Pointe • Lyrical • Tap Jazz • Poms • Cardio Jazz • Hip Hop Tumbling • Camps Park Ridge 2 02 4 Themed Birthday Parties BEST OF
W I N N ER
Celebrating 50 Years in Park Ridge!
COME DANCE WITH US RE GISTER N OW !
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HOME & GARDEN
After nearly 50 years of tending her Park Ridge garden, Arlene continues to find joy in every season of bloom. LOVE in Bloom! Arlene and Gene recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.
A Stroll through the Liss Garden
Arlene and Gene Liss have enjoyed their garden for 49 years.
BY RESIDENT ARLENE LISS
Tell us a little about yourself. We have lived in our home since 1978, where we’ve raised our four sons and recently celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary. I grew up on a small farm in southern Illinois, so gardening has always been part of my life. After retiring from teaching, I’ve been able to spend even more time in the garden. 16
September 2026
How did your love of gardening begin? My inspiration has to be my mom and my grandmother who were both gardeners. I can remember playing with the blossoms of the bleeding heart plants at my grandmother’s house when I was a very small child. My grandmother was an amazing gardener. She used to take a cutting from a neighbor’s rose bush,
Gene Liss is very proud to display the American Flag.
A statue inspired by Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
plant it in her garden, cover it with a mason jar for the winter, and have a thriving rose bush in the spring. She just knew what to do.
What advice would you give someone starting a garden? Take your time and
live with your space and think about how you want to make it your own. Your local garden store can recommend plants that work best for your sun exposure and soil. I always ask for plants that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Get creative. Try things out and if it doesn’t work, move the plants to another part of the garden. Visit gardens wherever you travel and see what other gardeners have done.
How has your garden changed over the years? My garden started when
we moved here 49 years ago. I added and moved things each year and am still changing things. This summer, we added a front terrace, and my husband transformed our old climbing and swing structure into a beautiful grape arbor. I
have the original peony plants in the same place they were when we moved in. I also love to pick up garden ornaments when we travel. They add so much interest to the garden. You’ll find everything from cherubs to a statue inspired by Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
How does your garden bring people together? Our backyard has become a
gathering place for family and friends. We love sitting outside, listening to the birds, and even have a family of wrens that come back every year. I always talk about plants and gardens with my friends. We compare plants, share experiences with our own gardens, and visit professional gardens like The Botanic Garden of Chicago and The Motion Arboretum.
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VISIT CHRISTIESCAROUSEL.COM CALL 847-825-4568 STROLL Park Ridge
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POSITIVELY PARK RIDGE
Gail at her home on Florence Drive in 1979.
Vic pictured in 1962 on his driveway at 925 Goodwin. This photo is also the cover of his book “Park Ridge Memories.”
Bound by Place, Joined by Memory BY FORMER RESIDENT VIC LARSON AND RESIDENT GAIL LITRENTI BENEDETTO
In the distant past known as the 1960s, two children grew up in the far western neighborhood of Park Ridge known as Forestdale. The two never met, though they rode their bikes on the same streets, swam at Oakton and Hinckley pools, and ice skated at Maine Park. Perhaps they even warmed their feet together in the warming house assembled each winter. But still, they never met. They passed each other in the halls of Madison School and attended its yearly carnival. They also wandered the halls of Maine South when Vic Larson was a senior, and Gail Litrenti (now Benedetto) was a freshman. A threeyear age difference can be isolating, similar to the distance from the 900 block of Goodwin Drive to the 600 block of Florence Drive that separated them when they were younger. So, did they finally meet? No, not even fifty years later, though both Gail and Vic think so fondly of their youth that they each 18
September 2026
wrote a book about “the good old days.” And THAT became the connection. Each has now read the other’s memoir, marveling at coincidences that span time and place in such a special city. Swept along with world events, they mourned the loss of Park Ridge’s iconic elms. They are now their respective family elders, writing about the city where they grew up, documenting a legacy for their grandchildren. Park Ridge is magnetic, summoning us back to visit the re-imagined Uptown, where favorite shops of the past are mostly gone, but many of the happy ghosts of yesteryear are alive and well, including regrown trees that capture the sanctuary-like feel of former times. Vic was a resident for 36 years. Gail has also lived in Park Ridge for 36 years total, returning after spending time in Switzerland. Like the film, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” we are swept along in nostalgic feelings.
Gail and her husband, Rick.
Vic Larson.
When you take a stroll down memory lane, we hope it’s pleasant. Come back and visit. There’s so much to see and do. And if you never left Park Ridge, well, lucky you!
YOU R H OME W I TH S TYLE AN D I NTE NT I ON RESID ENT IA L SHO WRO O M B EST B RA ND S - B EST PRI C E SH OP IN- ST O RE O R O NLI NE
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MAKING A DIFFERENCE
ST. PAUL OF THE CROSS VEGETABLE GARDEN BY MIKE POLLEY, ST. PAUL OF THE CROSS VEGETABLE GARDEN MANAGER
Tell us about your organization. The St. Paul of the Cross Vegetable Garden provides food for needy families, offers educational opportunities for gardeners of all ages, and encourages and fosters relationships in our community that nourish the mind, body, and soul.
Gardeners at the Spring Clean Up preparing for a new harvest season.
What types of services or programs does it offer? The garden is an extension
of St. Paul of the Cross (SPC) Food Pantry, which distributes food to about 175 families on the last Saturday of each month. All of our garden produce is donated to either the SPC Food Pantry or the Maine Township Food Pantry. Crops include carrots, radishes, tomatoes, cucumbers, beans, peppers, squash, onions, potatoes, garlic, and assorted herbs. Starting in March with SPC students from Dr. Karl Ochsner’s STEM classes, we start tomato and pepper plants from seed. In April we plant a few spring crops. In May the summer season starts and we plant the rest of the garden, all 45 beds. Each bed is planted and tended by an individual, family, or group. We harvest vegetables from June through the end of October. From mid July to the end of September we harvest on a weekly basis. Last year we harvested over 700 pounds of produce.
What inspired you to dedicate your time and effort to this cause? I have
volunteered at the garden since 2011. I like to work with the other gardeners to grow and harvest vegetables and enjoy helping to feed the hungry.
How can others in the community get involved? Visit the garden; if someone
is working in the garden and you have 20
September 2026
SPC students at the harvest produce weigh-in.
questions, ask away. We love to talk about the garden and its impact. You can also volunteer to tend to a garden bed. For more information, contact Director of Social Service Ministry Leni Duffy. St. Paul of the Cross Vegetable Garden 239 Ridge Terrace (Corner of Ridge Terrace and Summit) 847-692-6767 leniduffy@spc-church.org
SPC Vegetable Garden Manager Mike Polley holding freshly harvested carrots.
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MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS
Meet the
MEZA Family BY RESIDENT SAMANTHA MEZA
Tell us about your family. Sam, Roberto, Bronson (11), and Freddy (9).
What street do you live on? Courtland How did you and your spouse meet? My husband and I met when we were both living in the city.
Personalized Treatments. Natural Results.
What are your professions? I am an elementary educator. I found that many of the same skills that make a great teacher— patience, encouragement, and creating a sense of belonging— naturally transferred into teaching adults. That passion led me to build North Shore Mahjong and The Clubhouse, a Park Ridge mahjong studio where I teach lessons, host leagues and events, and focus on creating community through play and connection. My husband, Roberto, owns and operates Aged & Ore, a direct-to-consumer business that designs and sells whiskey related products. Our family values entrepreneurship, community involvement, and creating experiences and products that bring people together. Tell us about your kids. Bronson loves reading and is endlessly curious about the world around him. He is thoughtful and makes others feel included and valued. Freddy has a loving heart and is full of energy. He is always on the go, eager to try new things, and brings excitement wherever he goes.
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September 2026
Family Mahjong - a favorite!
Does your family have any unique interests? Bronson is passionate about
playing guitar and Freddy loves spending time in the kitchen. Sam enjoys treasure hunting for secondhand clothing and is an avid reader who has been part of the same book club for nearly ten years. Roberto is our resident podcast enthusiast and is always working to improve his golf game.
How do you celebrate the start of each school year? One of our favorite
traditions is taking first-day-of-school photos with our grade-level signs— including me! I think this is my 17th first day as a teacher. We end the day sharing stories from everyone’s first day and settling back into our family routines.
How does your family help build community in the neighborhood? Creating connections is something that is important to our family. Through North Shore Mahjong and The Clubhouse, I have brought together
Making family memories on summer vacation!
Taking the scenic route through WY.
people from Park Ridge and neighboring communities to learn, make friends, and build connections around the table. This past year we even hosted a 64-person league at Harp and Fiddle!
watching our boys ride their bikes to school each morning. One of our favorite parts of living in Park Ridge is that small-town feeling, where neighbors know one another, local businesses are supported, and everything feels connected and close to home.
What’s your favorite part of living in the neighborhood? We love
STROLL Park Ridge
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POSITIVELY PARK RIDGE
POSITIVELY PARK RIDGE PERSON OF THE MONTH Brandon Simmons BY STROLL STAFF
This month we are proud to recognize Brandon Simmons as our Positively Park Ridge Person of the Month for his commitment to family, service and community. A Park Ridge native, Brandon Simmons returned to his hometown in 2012 after serving in the U.S. Army. It was also around that time that he reconnected with his future wife, Katy, another Park Ridge native. The two had grown up in the same circle of friends before reconnecting after Brandon returned home from Iraq. Today, they are raising their three children, Ellie (10), James (8) and Dottie (6), in the same community that shaped their own childhoods. For Brandon, coming back to Park Ridge was an easy decision. He and Katy wanted their children to experience the
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same close-knit neighborhood they remembered growing up in. A place where neighbors know one another, kids ride bikes from house to house, and friendships are built block by block. That sense of community has inspired Brandon to become deeply involved in local life. Much of his volunteer work revolves around his children’s activities. He has coached youth soccer, serves as a Cub Scout leader with Pack 50, sits on the school board at Mary, Seat of Wisdom, and is an active parishioner, participating in a Saturday morning men’s Bible study and serving as a lector. Brandon credits much of his outlook to his father, who always made time to be present for his family despite a busy work schedule. That example influenced Brandon’s decision to become a financial advisor with Edward Jones, giving him the flexibility to prioritize his own family while helping clients build lives that reflect their values. He also hopes to encourage other fathers to do the same. He believes community involvement is one of the best ways to create meaningful relationships. “There are so many good people here,” he says. “It’s a great way to meet neighbors, make connections and even find mentors and lifelong friends.” For those new to Park Brandon enjoys coaching his son, James, in soccer. Ridge, Brandon’s advice is
Brandon and his children at the Veteran’s Day assembly at Mary, Seat of Wisdom.
The Simmons Family
Scan the QR code to nominate our next Positively Park Ridge Person of the Month.
simple: get involved in something you are interested in. Whether it’s through the Park District, library, schools, church or a local business, shared interests naturally lead to lasting friendships. And when it comes to being a good neighbor? His answer is refreshingly straightforward: get to know the people who live around you. Through his dedication to his family, his volunteer leadership and his investment in the next generation, Brandon exemplifies what it means to be Positively Park Ridge. Congratulations, Brandon!
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ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
Friends, family, and members of the Park Ridge Pickleball Club gathered to celebrate Mary Muno’s bench dedication.
Mary pictured on her newly dedicated bench in Northeast Park.
CELEBRATING MARY MUNO: A STAR ATHLETE ON AND OFF THE BENCH BY STROLL STAFF
Some people leave a lasting mark on a community through years of dedication, leadership, and a passion for bringing people together. Mary Muno is one of those people. Through her vision and commitment, she has created opportunities for friendship, recreation, and community connection in Park Ridge. In 1975, Mary joined Joan Adams and Lois Wilkas as one of the three founding members of the Park Ridge Women’s Tennis Association. As president, she helped create opportunities for women to enjoy tennis, build friendships, and embrace competition. Years later, after undergoing a shoulder replacement, Mary traveled to Florida for rehabilitation, where she discovered pickleball. Although hesitant at first, she quickly fell in love with the sport. When Mary returned to Park Ridge 26
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in 2013, she introduced pickleball to residents. Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, the sport proved easy to learn and welcoming to players of all ages and abilities. Today, the volunteer-run Park Ridge Pickleball Club has nearly 400 members and offers access to 17 courts at Northeast Park, Woodland Park, South Park, and the Centennial Fitness Center. Residents
can join the club for $35 annually by registering through the club’s website and PickleballDen. Membership includes organized play, club communications, leagues, tournaments, and social events. The popular Ladder League, which Mary influenced, meets at 6 p.m. at Northeast Park and is organized by skill level: advanced on Mondays, high intermediate on Tuesdays, and intermediate on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Mary’s contributions were recently honored with a bench dedication near the pickleball courts at Northeast Park. Reflecting on the recognition, she shared, “It makes me feel wonderful. To see what has grown out of it is special.” Mary Muno’s legacy extends far beyond the courts. Thanks to her vision, hundreds of residents have discovered not only a sport they enjoy but also a welcoming community that continues to grow.
Mary playing pickleball at the US Open in Florida.
Scan the QR code to be featured as Athlete of the Month!
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DID YOU KNOW? BY RESIDENT JOAN MATTINGLY
Established by City Council in 2010, the Park Ridge Historic Preservation Commission is charged with identifying and supporting the preservation of historically or architecturally significant properties or elements within the city. Landmarking, and the establishment of Historic Districts, are, of course, important vehicles used. Such preservation will, among other things, serve to preserve the existing built environment and foster civic pride in our local history----that which makes Park Ridge unique. Currently Park Ridge has identified 20 landmarks, the Pickwick, being the most notorious and the Malone Fountain outside of Rita’s being one of the most recent. For those who might not realize it, former Mayor Malone, who commissioned this fountain, also commissioned construction of the Pickwick Theater building!
The Wm. H. Malone Fountain, pictured here in 1935, can be found on the corner of NW Hwy and Cedar.
The plaque that will be placed at this fountain reads: Commissioned by former Mayor Wm. H Malone Designed by local sculptor John Paulding Presented at a dedication ceremony on 7-3-1926 A 2-tier drinking fountain “for man and beast” Nowadays dogs are likely to be the “beasts” that use the lower portion of this fountain. I am told that when first installed, there may have been horses that took a drink.
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On July 3, 2026, the Park Ridge Park District, City officials, the Park Ridge Historical Society, and community members celebrated the rededication of the fountain and marked 100 years of the landmark.
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WHAT’S COOKIN’ PARK RIDGE?
Stacy’s Linguine al Limone BY RESIDENT STACY MARIN
Bright, fresh, and effortlessly elegant, this linguine with lemon cream sauce captures the flavors of late summer in every bite. With its light citrusy sauce and simple ingredients, it’s the perfect way to savor the last few weeks of the season.
INGREDIENTS: • 1 lemon, preferably organic (or 2, if you want a more assertive lemon flavor) • 400g (14 oz) linguini pasta • 1-2 cloves of garlic, minced • Olive oil and butter • 2 cups heavy cream • 1-1/2 oz grated parmesan cheese (or more to taste) • Salt and pepper • Broccolini (asparagus or peas also work well)
DIRECTIONS:
1. Boil water for the pasta and add the linguini. 2. Prepare and steam your vegetables. Meanwhile, make your lemon sauce: heat some olive oil and butter over moderate heat in a skillet. Note: this is your base, so you can start with 4 tablespoons of olive oil and 1/4 cup butter and keep adding for desired taste and consistency. 3. Add garlic, allowing it to sauté for just a few moments. 4. Add the cream, parmesan cheese, salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste). Allow the cream to reduce a bit, then turn off the heat. Add additional parmesan to plated meals and serve with veggies on top.
“This dish is simple, refreshing, and the whole family loves it!” — STACY MARIN 30
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Stacy’s daughter, Elle (5), pictured with their family favorite pasta!
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PRECIOUS PETS
Over The Moon for Luna BY RESIDENT JENNY RAMUNDO
Tell us about your pet. Luna is an Olde English Bulldog and is 5
years old.
When and how did your pet come to join your family? Luna
joined our family as a puppy in the spring of 2021.
Is there a story behind Luna’s name? “You Are My Sunshine”
was a favorite with our kids when they were babies. Luna is Spanish for “moon,” and we thought it was a fun way to recognize our new addition to the family. She’s very much like another child!
Does your pet have any unique talents or tricks? Luna loves
playing in the yard. Her favorite thing to do is play Keep Away with a large exercise ball. She will just run back and forth chasing the ball. Every so often we let her get a hold of it and she’ll bounce it on her nose like she’s playing volleyball! It’s pretty hilarious to watch.
Does your pet have any favorite toys or treats? Luna loves cheese, peanut butter, and rotisserie chicken.
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Tell us about your favorite memory with your pet. Luna has always been so patient and loving with our kids. When our son was around 2 years old, he would try to sit on Luna like she was a pony. She never complained! If your pet could choose any adventure to go on, what would it be? Luna would be happy to go just about anywhere with us. She is
happiest when we are all together, but she especially loves car rides.
What is your pet’s “pet peeve”? Like other dogs, Luna is not
a fan of storms. She will usually seek shelter in our mudroom which doesn’t have windows. We always know when it’s about to rain based on where she is hanging out in the house.
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A STROLL DOWN MEMORY LANE
As students head back to school this fall, we’re taking a look back at the early days of Mary, Seat of Wisdom School. These photos from 1964 capture members of the faculty alongside a classroom in action, offering a nostalgic glimpse into a school year from more than 60 years ago.
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PARK RIDGE POETRY
SUMMER SEPTEMBER STROLL BU RESIDENT PAUL HANSEN
A lovely walk one September day Left me with so much to say Beauty surrounds us here in town Take the time to look around Wildwood Nature Center will astound A sea of bright yellow six feet tall Summer’s bridge into fall A beautiful butterfly sees it all A mother curls around her child Safe in our Park Ridge wilds Families walking along the trail Nature amazes us without fail Sit a spell and take it all in We all are so busy and have no time So please be reminded by this rhyme Stop and take it all in Be a child once again Take a walk, lay on the grass Don’t let so much time pass Watch the clouds passing by Take that swing ride into the sky I promise you - it will delight If you let your spirit take flight!
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KIDS 2 KIDS
Millie Mainwaring: Swimming, Scouts, & Success BY JUNIOR WRITER JOSETTE STEINFELS
What street do you live on? Columbia Ave. What school do you go to? I am a sophomore at Maine South.
Do you have any siblings? I have two siblings, Hunter (14) and Joey (12). What do you do outside of school? I
work at a hair salon as an assistant. I’m
also a Girl Scout and working on my Silver and Gold Awards.
Do you play any sports? I have done swimming for 6 years. I also play water polo and love my team. Tell us about the Girl Scout projects you are working on. The Girl Scout Silver
and Gold Awards involve solving a community issue and making a change. I am working on my Silver Award that is about educating my community on preparing yourself in high school for college, and how to build your profile.
What can you share about your work for this award? A profile is more than your
academic achievements. Colleges want to see what you do outside of school, like sports, clubs, and where you work and volunteer. They want to see you as a person. Doing extracurricular activities like a team or job is important because it shows that you have a wide variety of skills and can handle multiple things at once. Keep a list to stay organized.
When should you start building a profile? During your freshman and sophomore year because that is the time you start to get jobs, volunteer in clubs, and sports become more serious.
What are important profile features? Colleges will look at your level of commitment and impact you have on your community.
What are some places in the community where you could volunteer? You could volunteer at senior living facilities, churches, and community events like food drives or donation bins. Uptown has many restaurants or stores that hire most people 16 and up.
How have you been practicing this in your life? I have a job, am a Eucharistic
Minister at SPC, and am on the swimming and water polo teams at Maine South. I am also part of my Girl Scout troop.
STROLL Park Ridge
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PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
CHRISTIE’S CAROUSEL CELEBRATES 45 YEARS OF LEARNING, LAUGHTER, & FAMILY BY JAN CHRISTIE PAGONE, JUDY CHRISTIE FRITZ, & NANCY CHRISTIE GOBBO, SISTERS-OWNERS OF CHRISTIE’S CAROUSEL OF LEARNING
C H R ISTIE ’S CAR OUSE L OF LEARNI NG began in 1981 as St. Mary’s Merry Go Round Preschool and Daycare. When the preschool director retired, our mother, Georgia Christie, saw an opportunity to create a school centered around love, learning, and family. Together with our father, Gene, that dream became a reality. In 2006, we moved to our current home at Park Ridge Presbyterian Church and became Christie’s Carousel of Learning.
What kinds of programs do you offer? We offer preschool
and childcare programs for children ages two through pre-K, with half-day and full-day options, as well as a 9-week themed summer camp program for ages 2-9. Our play-based curriculum focuses on kindergarten readiness while nurturing each child’s social, emotional, and intellectual growth.
What’s unique about your daycare? Our philosophy is rooted in family. As parents, grandparents, and lifelong educators, we understand that every child develops at their own pace and 38
September 2026
Christie Family currently working at Christie’s Carousel. Christie’s Carousel is a proud STROLL Park Ridge Reader’s Choice Best of Park Ridge Award winner.
deserves to feel seen, valued, and celebrated. Through hands-on learning, imaginative play, creativity, and meaningful social interaction, we help children build confidence and a lifelong love of learning. Our greatest compliment is welcoming the children of former students. Serving multiple generations of families is an honor and reflects the lasting relationships we’ve built.
How does Christie’s connect with the community? Park Ridge has been home to our family for more than 65 years. It’s where our parents raised nine children, where we grew up, raised our own families, and have had the privilege of serving generations of local families. In 2024, our father, Corporal Eugene Christie, was honored as a Park Ridge Hometown Hero, an especially meaningful recognition. We are grateful to continue giving back to the community that has supported Christie’s Carousel of Learning for nearly 45 years.
What’s your vision for the future of Christie’s? As we begin
our 45th school year, our goal is to continue providing the familycentered, play-based learning environment that has defined
“You all have done an amazing job preparing these kids, and it’s clear the foundation you’ve built gives them a significant confidence boost as they start school.” —JESSICA W.
The Christie Family in front of Park Ridge City Hall when patriarch Gene Christie was inducted into the 2024 Park Ridge Hometown Heroes.
Christie’s since 1981. We are incredibly grateful for the trust and support our community has shown us and look forward to continuing to serve Park Ridge families for years to come. CHRISTIE’S CAROUSEL OF LEARNING 1300 W. Crescent Ave. (847) 825-4568 www.christiescarousel.com Instagram: @christiescarousel
Play-based learning in action at this student lemonade stand.
Dr. Bob Marshall, age 77 • Montana
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Resurrection College Prep High School’s newest Bandits start building friendships at the annual Freshman Bowling Mixer.
Vive! Therapeutic Massage owners Geri & Paul Balazs presenting a check to WINGS for $4,000. Vive! held a Spring fundraiser for the largest domestic violence service provider in the state.
Congratulations to Glenn Olson on being named the US Tennis Association’s Chicago Volunteer of the Year! Glenn founded the Park District’s Park Ridge Mixed Doubles Tennis affiliate 15 years ago. Avenues to Independence clients enjoyed making their own tie-dye shirts with friends.
AROUND TOWN Park Ridge Park District’s summer staff help campers enjoy summer adventures!
That’s a wrap! We love our Summer intern Alyssa Sabatino! Good Luck heading back to college! 40
September 2026
Resident Charlie Melidosian took 3rd Place in a summer ribeye steak cook-off in Fort Worth, Texas! Congratulations, Charlie!
Yoga in the Park at Hodges Park. STROLL Park Ridge is a proud sponsor.
The Park District’s Country Farm Fair brought fun and games.
Park District’s Family Summer Concert Night Stroll Community Coffee helping making new friends. Photo: Sue Saccomanno and Dr. Brian Donahue, Evolve Concierge Medicine
Smiles all around at the annual Taste of Park Ridge!
STROLL’s Joan Mattingly and Alderman Joseph Steinfels at the Malone Fountain rededication ceremony.
The Park Ridge Park District’s Flick & Float is a family favorite summer activity!
STROLL Park Ridge
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LIFE IN THE DAD LANE
Everybody’s working for the (3 day) Weekend! BY RESIDENT SCOTT CASTELLANOS
L A B O R DAY IS HE R E , so fire up the grill, get some ice in the cooler and make sure the storage bin is ready for all those white clothes you are not allowed to wear for some reason. Finally, a well-needed day off for all us folks that work so hard all year long. And a much-needed day off for our kids that just started school two weeks ago. I am kidding of course; I love a threeday weekend and look forward to an extra day off. I do my best to make sure ‘stuff’ gets done on that ‘extra’ day. ‘Stuff’ like sleeping in, binge watching TV, going to a BBQ so I can talk about how busy I am with all the other dads and finally, winding down with a nightcap of complaining that the weekend still wasn’t long enough. I think this year will be a little different, since one of our kiddos will be away at college and the other has a drivers license. Although, I have a feeling my wife hopes my oldest will come home for a visit since he’s only 90 minutes away (and because he misses his mommy so much). Just like I am sure she will also plan some sort of activity to entice my youngest to hang out with us, although it is hard, as 50-year-olds, to compete with teenage shenanigans, friends and a girlfriend. Me, I don’t know how I will feel. After all this will be my
first three day weekend (possibly) without the kids in eighteen years. On paper it seems nice to have some extra time on my hands, but my heart tells me I may feel a little sad, and logic tells me that this is what’s supposed to happen and I can use the time to get some items crossed off my to-do list. Of course, the reality is it will probably be a little out of each bucket. Either way, if I know myself, I can guarantee I will find a way to get my TV involved.
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HEALTHY LIVING
The Glue THAT BINDS T Junk journaling is emerging as a powerful wellness practice. BY NICOLE LETTS
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housands of people are gluing ticket stubs, tea bag wrappers, and torn magazine pages into handmade books and calling it self-care. More than a crafting hobby, junk journaling transforms everyday ephemera into deeply personal, tactile art, offering a screen-free creative outlet in a world starved for slowness. It borrows the nostalgic heart of scrapbooking but ditches the rules, inviting imperfection and spontaneity in a way that quietly trains the mind to be present.
What is a junk journal? A junk journal is a place to fill and store repurposed, recycled, or found materials that speak to you. The process is less about the result and more about the creative practice of filling and decorating journal pages with items such as postage stamps, candy wrappers, paper napkins, fabric scraps, and other found keepsakes. Layering and collaging are welcome, and no writing is required, unless, of course, you want to write. The junk journaling world is your oyster. The emphasis is on using materials that have already lived a previous life, valuing texture and nostalgia over polish and perfection.
Why junk journal? Traditional journaling can feel intimidating because it presents you with a blank page and, therefore, an expectation to produce something meaningful. For a lot of people, that pressure is enough to make them close the book, walk away, and never pick it up again. Junk journaling removes that pressure. The focus shifts from what you're thinking and feeling to what you're making, which creates an opportunity for reflection. You might find yourself processing something while arranging a collage without ever having to articulate it directly.
What is needed to get started?
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Your journal can be as simple as a spiral notebook or legal pad, or as impressive as a leather-bound book. Once your vessel is selected, gather adhesive of choice (a gluestick for a simple look or washi tape for a more creative spin), scissors, a pen or markers for doodles or captions, and finally, your junk. Start with a small pile of collected items and see where the creativity takes you. The only rule is there are no rules; the messiest pages often hold the most meaning.
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9151 Currency St. Irving, TX 75063 A Publication for the Residents of Park Ridge
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