COVER PHOTO BY
ANTHONY TRIPP
PHOTOGRAPHY
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
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
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
MEET THE TEAM!
PUBLISHER / EDITOR/ EVENTS/ SALES
CONTENT COORDINATOR
PHOTOGRAPHERS
RESIDENT WRITERS
JUNIOR WRITER
MEDIA MANAGER
Dolly Caravette McCarthy (630) 272-7582
dolly.mccarthy@n2co.com
Diane Morris strollparkridge@gmail.com
Joan Mattingly
Scott Castellanos
Paul Hansen
Josette Steinfels
Anthony Tripp Photography amtphotos2011@ gmail.com
Crystal Parenti crystalparenti photography@ gmail.com
Campbell Micek
Vic Larson
Theresa Straub
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!
ATTORNEY
Law Office of Magdalena A. Murzanski, LLC Magdalena Murzanski (847) 533-7053 MagMurLaw.com
AUTO REPAIR
Skylark Garage (847) 823-8711 www.skylarkgarage.com
Uptown Auto Repair (847) 698-2527 uptownautoparkridge.com
BEAUTY
Aelan Aesthetics (224) 585-9974 www.aelanaesthetics.com
Amara Skin and Wellness (847) 220-8589 amaraskinandwellness.com
Dermani Medspa (224) 985-3932 www.dermanimedspa/parkridge
FadeAway Medical Esthetics (773) 744-0738 fadeawaymedicalesthetics.com
Uptown Med Spa (847) 696-7282 pruptownmedspa.com
CHARITY
WINGS Program, Inc. (847) 519-7820 www.wingsprogram.com
CHIROPRACTIC CARE
Silver Lining Chiropractic (847) 999-4608 www.gosilverliningchiro.com
CLEANING SERVICE
Clean Joy Cleaning Services, Inc. (224) 713-6388 Clean-joy.com
Violka Cleaning Services (847) 657-8654 www.violkacleaningservice.com
COUNTERTOPS
Stone Masters (847) 678-3333 www.stonemasters99.com
CUSTOM BUILDER
Plumb Tree Builders (847) 997-7714 www.plumbtreebuilders.com
DANCE
Fred Astaire Dance Studio (847) 653-6157 FredAstaireIllinois.com
Lynnette’s School of Dance (847) 823-7334 lynnettesschoolofdance.com
DAYCARE/PRESCHOOL
Sugar Plum Tree Preschool, Inc. (847) 823-1978 sugarplumtree.net
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
DERMATOLOGY AND MOHS
SKIN CANCER SURGERY
North Branch Dermatology (773) 763-6000 www.northbranchdermatology.com
ENTERTAINMENT
Village of Rosemont (847) 993-8312 rosemont.com
FITNESS
Orange Shoe Personal Fitness - Park Ridge (630) 890-9786 www.orangeshoe.com
FUNERAL HOME
Cumberland Chapels (708) 456-8300 cumberlandchapels.com
GUTTERS
LeafFilter
National Sponsor (833) 380-2581 LeafFilter.com/StrollBloom
HEATING/COOLING
Home Comfort Services, Inc HomeComfort.net
HOME CARE
AMADA Senior Care Northshore (847) 324-9450
AMADAnorthshore.com
HOME IMPROVEMENT
The Wall Overhaul (866) 567-9255 www.thewalloverhaul.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
LAW
Anthony J. Madonia & Associates (312) 578-9300 madonia.com
MASSAGE/WELLNESS
Vive! Therapeutic Massage (847) 637-0002 vivemassage.com
MENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS
Michael J. Athans, Ph.D and Associates, Ltd. (847) 823-4444 athansandassociates.net
MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
Sidekick Coaching and Educational Services, LLC (224) 585-9747
OPTOMETRIST
Norwood Park Eye Center (773) 867-6165 www.norwoodparkeyecenter.com
ORAL, FACIAL AND IMPLANT SURGERY
Dr. John M. Sisto - Oral Surgery (847) 696-4848 www.omsparkridge.com
PAINTER
CertaPro Painters of Des Plaines/ NW Chicago (847) 376-8215 www.certapro.com/desplaines
PARK DISTRICT
Park Ridge Park District (847) 692-5127 prparks.org
PEDIATRIC DENTIST
Blue Coral Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics (847) 861-7695 kidsmyl.com
PHOTOGRAPHY
Crystal Parenti Photography (708) 822-3493 www.crystalparentiphotography.com
PLUMBER
Nuzzo Sewer & Plumbing (773) 625-6280 www.nuzzoplumbing.com
Olympian Plumbing (312) 241-0951
OlympianPlumbing.com
REALTORS @properties
Sue M. Hall (847) 692-5522 justsoldsue.com
Chardonnee Cunningham Real Estate (847) 528-9998 chardonneecunningham.jamesonsir.com
Mario DiLorenzo Real Estate Team
Keller Williams ONEChicago (847) 312-0912
mariodilorenzoteam.com
RESTAURANTS
A + Italian Steakhouse (773) 853-2325
www.aplusitaliansteakhouse.com
Sal Pique (847) 696-7081
www.sal-pique-parkridge.com
Saltwater Coastal Grill (773) 312-3653
saltwaterrosemont.com
Thalaiva’s Indian Kitchen (847) 696-7029 www.thalaivasIndiankitchen.com
SCHOOLS
Mary, Seat of Wisdom (847) 825-2777 www.mswparish.org
Resurrection College Prep High School (773) 775-6616
reshs.org
TRAVEL AGENCY/TRAVEL ADVISOR Uproute Travel (224) 567-9834
www.uproutetravel.com
VEIN AND AESTHETIC CHICAGO VEINCARE CENTER (847) 983-0445
www.yourveinexpert.com
Featured home
APRIL SHOWERS OF POSITIVITY!
Park Ridge
ALL AROUND TOWN and as seen in the pages throughout this community magazine, we are discovering residents who exemplify all that is good and positive in our town. That’s what Stroll is all about --highlighting the good and positivity that makes Park Ridge so wonderful. These individuals really do make a difference and are the heart of this community. At Stroll Park Ridge, we value those residents and want to do our part to keep and encourage that positivity. So we decided a special honor was necessary. It started two years ago at the Best of Park Ridge 2023 event --- we honored an individual who is all that and POSITIVELY PARK RIDGE! We have so many faces that define this and so began the process of honoring
one person a year that stands out as the POSITIVELY PARK RIDGE PERSON OF THE YEAR. You can have a say in who we recognize! Vote for a Park Ridge person who you think has made a positive impact on our community. In addition, new this year, we have included the category Best Teacher of the Year! We look forward to honoring them at the Stroll SUMMER SOCIAL and 3rd Annual Best of Park Ridge 2025 Readers Choice Awards ---a fun night planned for the community to come together on June 19th at The Harp & Fiddle. We hope you will join us to kick off Summer in our town! See full page inside this issue for voting QR code or go to www.strollparkridge.com and vote on the Best of Park Ridge page.
LET’S GET TOGETHER!
already, please Like us at com/StrollParkRidge and follow us on Instagram, Stroll Park Ridge. Get reminders for our fun family events, Supper Club gatherings, community fundraisers for our local not-for-profits and more!
Stroll Park Ridge: Your Stories, Your Photos. Your Community
This is your publication, Park Ridge. I am so honored to be producing it
Dolly McCarthy, Publisher
YOU’RE
April 30th and May 28th, 9 - 10:15 AM
DON’T MISS THE Stroll Park Ridge Monthly coffee! This is open to all in the Park Ridge community. Our next community coffee will take place Wednesday, April 30th, 9:00 am - 10:15 am at The Harp and Fiddle, 110 Main Street. Our Community Coffees will resume back at the Park Ridge Country Club after renovations are complete. See you there!
Positively
Let’s STROLL!
Dolly and Bill Scharringhausen, awarded Positively Park Ridge Person of the Year 2024! Bill is this year’s Memorial Day Parade Grand Marshall.
“All around excellent experience for my son. He had 4 impacted wisdom teeth removed. Everyone in the o ce was kind and helpful. We were sent home with all of the information and prescriptions needed. The follow up a few days after went great. Thank you!”
“Dr Sisto & the team are professionals. Simply said: they are the best! I feel fortunate my dentist Dr Sal recommended him to me.” –Jeanne C.
Ella Press
Street you live on: Vine Ave.
School you attend: Lincoln Middle School and I’m in 7th grade.
What sport do you play? I currently play on two volleyball teams. One for school and one for a club called Mindset.
What inspired you to get started with volleyball? I was inspired with volleyball because after I quit gymnastics, I was looking for sports to do and my old teammate recommended volleyball. Once I started playing, I started to love how energetic everything is on the court.
What positions do you play? In volleyball I am a libero which specializes in the back row wearing a different colored jersey.
What do you enjoy most when playing your favorite sports? I love trying something new and getting new positions, but I also love throwing myself out there.
What is your proudest moment? My proudest moment in volleyball is making my school volleyball team and being able to represent my school.
Who is someone you admire? I admire Lexi Rodrigues (volleyball player) because every time she makes a mistake, she keeps her head up and would never give up.
What advice do you have for others looking to get into your chosen sports? Don’t be afraid to try something new. Your family and friends will be by your side the whole time. You just have to believe in yourself!
Beyond sports, what do you like to do? I like to babysit and hang out with friends.
If you were to continue practicing your sport, what do you hope to become or accomplish someday? My goal is to be the best volleyball player I can be and maybe someday go pro. I also love to be a motivating teammate.
Are you an athlete or would you like to nominate an athlete? Scan QR Code to submit!
A THOUGHTFUL ESTATE PLAN often needs to accomplish multiple goals, including ensuring the orderly distribution of assets, managing potential tax consequences and potentially supporting the charitable causes and organizations you care about. Here are key actions to help you craft your estate plan.
Getting Started on Estate Planning
1. Assign (and regularly update) your beneficiaries. The beneficiary designations on your financial accounts typically supersede any instructions in a will, so if they’re outdated, your assets may pass to people you didn’t intend. To ensure that doesn’t happen, review your primary and secondary beneficiary designations every year and after significant life events, including marriages, divorces, births or deaths.
2. Confirm your real estate is correctly titled.
Real estate titles help determine who receives the property after your death. Each state has its own laws around inheriting property. An estate attorney can make sure your property titles are valid, current and reflect your wishes.
3. Prepare for unexpected scenarios during your lifetime. In the event you are no longer able to make decisions for yourself, here are necessary documents to secure to ensure your wishes are followed Health care proxy (POA), Living Will/ Advanced directive, and HIPPA release authority.
4. Decide whether a trust is right for you.
Trusts can give you more control over how you distribute assets while helping to reduce potential taxes for your estate and beneficiaries. They also allow for greater privacy in that they help avoid probate.
5. Create a will.
A will lays out specific instructions about what to do with your assets after you’re gone. It allows you to name an executor and designate a guardian to care for any minor children or other dependents if you pass away.
6. Name your executor and/or trustee.
Executors and trustees play critical roles in estate plans, but their responsibilities can be complicated and time-consuming. Executors and trustees can be friends or family members.
7. Talk to your loved ones about your plan.
Clearly communicating your estate planning decisions with your heirs and loved ones can make the process less stressful. By sharing your decisions in advance, you can help reduce uncertainty and potential conflict down the road.
To start estate planning, it’s important to work with professionals experienced in disability and estate planning like the legal professionals at Anthony J. Madonia & Associates. We will guide you through setting up trusts, drafting necessary legal documents, and ensuring compliance with government regulations. Contact Anthony J. Madonia & Associates at info@madonia.com or (312) 578-9300.
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!
BY RESIDENT MICHELLE O’MALLEY
SAY HELLO TO THE TAZIOLI FAMILY!
BY RESIDENTS JOE & EILEEN TAZIOLI
Family member names: Joe, Eileen, Nick (8), Henry (4), Mikey (2), Freddy our Mini Goldendoodle (3)
Street: Courtland.
How long have you lived in Park Ridge? We moved to Park Ridge from Logan Square in July 2019. Eileen grew up in Edison Park and Joe grew up in Mundelein. The location was perfect for us as we both worked downtown at the time and we loved the Uptown area and the great schools!
Is there anything your neighbors might know you for? Our neighbors may know us for our bright, festive, sometimes over the top holiday decorations. Our kids love decorating for Halloween and Christmas!
How long have you been with your spouse and how did you meet? We have been together for 11 years. We met at a Sister Hazel concert at the House of Blues. Eileen was dragged there by her sister and Joe was reluctantly brought by his brother. We met randomly at the concert and the rest is history!
What are your professions? Eileen is a stay at home mom and Joe is a Director of Global Enterprise Business Continuity Management at BMO bank where he has worked for 15 years. Prior to becoming a stay at home mom, Eileen worked as an operations manager for a non profit healthcare association.
Tell us about your kids. We have three very active boys! Nick is in second grade at Roosevelt Elementary, Henry is in preschool at Jefferson, and Mikey will start preschool at Jefferson next year. Nick plays hockey for the Niles Rangers,
THE TAZIOLI FAMILY!
flag football, and will play baseball for the Park Ridge Warriors this summer. Henry plays t-ball, soccer, and is learning to play hockey. Mikey enjoys trying to do everything that his big brothers do and can’t wait to start playing sports himself!
What do you like to do together as a family? Our favorite summer traditions are our annual vacations! We love going to northern Michigan to the Leelanau Peninsula. Eileen has been visiting this area with her family since childhood and we have continued the tradition with our kids. We enjoy exploring all of the towns in the area, going kayaking, hiking, and visiting some of the many wineries on the peninsula! We also frequently visit St. Augustine, Florida. Joe’s family has been going on vacation there for over 30 years. We have continued the tradition with his entire immediate family, including all 14 grandchildren!
Tell us something interesting, unique, or unusual about your family. I’m not sure how unique this is, but we both come from large, close families. We love having big backyard parties in the summer with both friends and family, the more the merrier! We spend a ton of time with our families,
you will rarely see us at a weekend game, dinner, or school event without grandparents, aunts, or uncles in tow. Eileen’s parents still live in Edison Park and never miss an event involving the kids! Our family feels most connected on those rare evenings when we have nothing to do and we can eat dinner and watch a movie together!
Describe your perfect day in Park Ridge as a family. Our perfect day in Park Ridge would start out with breakfast at Macs, we would probably attend at least one sporting event, followed by the pool in the summer or the library. We would go to Sonny’s for lunch for a chopped salad, spend some time at one of the many great parks, Holts for dinner, and a movie at the Pickwick! We would end with a nightcap at Triple Scoop’d!
di Pizza, and Harp and Fiddle are our favorite restaurants to go with the kids.
Favorite Park Ridge Park? The new park at Maine Park with the zipline! We also frequently end up at Jaycee Park, Brickton, and Prospect Park.
Favorite Park Ridge historic house? We love all of the Spanish style houses in the South Park area! They are so unique and add so much character to the neighborhood.
Are you passionate about any charities / nonprofits / philanthropies? We participate in and raise money and awareness every year for the Out of the Darkness walk in Chicago. This is an annual event put on the by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Favorite Park Ridge Restaurant? There are so many to choose from but we love Patina when we go out without the kids. Holts, Pazzi
Are you involved in the community at all? Eileen volunteers whenever she can at the kids’ schools. Joe gets involved by coaching Nick’s baseball teams and was an assistant coach for flag football and helped out with Henry’s t-ball team.
RADIANCE BEGINS HERE
BY RESIDENT SCOTT CASTELLANOS
Junior year of high school is taking me into unfamiliar territory. The road to college feels much different in 2025 than in 1992. Right now, my son is in the midst of college brochures, visits, test prep, volunteer hours, extracurriculars, and other stuff I know little about. The biggest questions now are things like school size: big, small, medium, medium big, or medium small. Business programs vs science programs vs ….The number of choices and resumes kids need to get into the school of their choice is a bit overwhelming, especially to a guy like me who took a different and much longer path.
When I was looking at my options after high school, I needed the 3 Ds: discipline, direction, and dinero (money for you non-Spanish speakers). The Marine Corps gave me 2 out of the 3. Discipline came quickly, via some motivational boots to the butt. The GI Bill and the Illinois Veteran’s Grant gave me the dinero. Direction, that was the elusive one. I started wanting to be a chef, then a teacher, then a chef again, then a nurse, and wound up in insurance. I went to 5 different schools
and honestly feel like most of what got me here I learned at my first stop in the Marines.
I envy my kids because they seem to have more direction than I ever did, which hopefully means my wife and I did something right. Sometimes I worry that kids need to have too much direction too early, but one thing we know, as adults, is that life will throw us some detours. We have GPS now, but when I was young and lost, I could always stop at a gas station and ask for directions. I can’t be as accurate as a GPS, but I am hoping I can be as helpful as an old-time gas station for my kids. They tell me I have the gas part down.
GO GREEN PARK RIDGE MAKES IT EASIER TO BE GREEN!
BY CINDY GRAU & MARK KLEINSCHMIT CO-PRESIDENTS OF GO GREEN PARK RIDGE
GO GREEN PARK RIDGE is offering residents an opportunity to win three months of free curbside food scrap pickup from Collective Resource Compost Cooperative. Composting food waste is a great way to divert it from landfills, turn it into nutrient-rich soil and minimize the creation of the very potent greenhouse gas - methane. Enter and learn more about the pickup service at www.gogreenparkridge.org.
Thanks to an agreement between the City of Park Ridge and Collective Resource
Compost Cooperative, residents can sign up for this service at a discounted rate. This spring, the city’s Sustainability Commission will set up two free food waste/ compost dropoff sites. Stay tuned for details. Since 2012, Go Green Park Ridge has raised environmental awareness and inspired Park Ridge residents, businesses and government entities to live and work more sustainably. Resident Amy Bartucci and like-minded residents banded together to work on ways to “love where you live” and make Park Ridge healthier for all.
We’re proud of our involvement in getting the city to develop a sustainability plan and Mayor Marty Maloney to establish a Sustainability Commission. We have also worked with the Park Ridge Park District and District 64 to make sustainability a part of their operations.
Some ways you can learn more and get involved include:
• Join us for the spring Forest Preserve Cleanup Saturday, April 26th, 1-3PM.
• Attend Let’s Dig into Residential Composting at the Park Ridge Public Library on May 8th.
• Stop by our Native Plant Sale and free compost giveaway, hosted with the environmental club at Maine East, Mother’s Day weekend.
• Participate in our free 2nd annual Sustainable Yards Walk, Saturday, July 12th.
Find out more details or sign up for our monthly newsletter at www.gogreenparkridge. org or email us at gogreenparkridge@gmail.com
Go Green Park Ridge members Patty Hempel, Lorie Bartel, Tracey Edsey and Shannon Donley at the Kids Activity Tent at the Farmers Market.
Families and friends at the most recent Forest Preserve Cleanup.
Founder Amy Bartucci in front of her permeable driveway at the Sustainable Yards Walk in July.
John Tunnell Allstate Insurance
Park Ridge - You’re in good hands with John Tunnell
I’M JOHN TUNNELL, an Allstate agency owner, business coach, and mentor. I founded my first agency in 2007 and have grown it into one of the largest in the country, recently expanding to Lake Geneva, WI. Beyond running my agencies, I’m active in the Park Ridge community, serving as an elected official. Outside of work, I enjoy walking, reading, and traveling with my family.
Where did you grow up? I grew up in Anderson, IN, and moved to Chicago in 2003, settling in Park Ridge in 2014. We chose Park Ridge for its strong community, excellent schools, and great environment for raising a family. My neighbors may know me from coaching youth football, basketball, and baseball for over 10 years. I’ve also served as an elected official on the Park Ridge Park District board for six years, holding roles like President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary.
Can you tell us about your family? Wife: Mary Ann, Son: Alex and Daughter: Caroline. Rescue lab/retriever: Abby
What inspired you to start your business? I wanted to build something of my own that combined entrepreneurship, leadership, and impact. The insurance industry allowed me to help families protect what matters most while creating a scalable business. When I launched my Allstate agency in 2007, I focused on more than just selling policies. I built a high-performing team, created a culture of success, and mentored others. Over the years, I expanded into coaching through Craig Wiggins Coaching, helping agents improve sales execution, lead management, and agency growth.
What sets you apart from others in your industry?
• High-Performing Agency Growth: Built from the ground up, ranking among top producers.
• Sales & Leadership Coaching: Helping other agents scale their success.
• Data-Driven Marketing: Using strategic lead generation to ensure growth.
• Consistent Activity & Execution: Emphasizing daily habits, tracking, and disciplined sales processes.
• Community Leadership: Serving as an elected official, coaching youth sports, and engaging locally.
Given your business expertise and the nature of what you do, what advice can you offer to the residents of the neighborhood regarding your industry?
• Review coverage annually.
• Bundle home, auto, and other policies.
• Focus on coverage, not just price.
• Secure life insurance early.
• Ask about discounts and new rates.
• Work with a local expert who understands the community.
What do you love about our neighborhood publication? I love Stroll Park Ridge because it brings our community together by highlighting local stories, businesses, and events. It helps connect neighbors, support local businesses, and celebrate the achievements of our residents. The magazine’s high-quality content, engaging features, and commitment to giving back make it a valuable part of our neighborhood. It’s more than a publication— it’s a reflection of Park Ridge’s strong community spirit!
Reach out for a quote or a cup of coffee!
416 W Talcott Rd, Park Ridge, IL 60068
847-306-8660
tunnellagency@allstate.com
https://agents.allstate.com/tunnellinsurance-agency-inc-park-ridge-il.html
“I have had this agency working with me for years and have always had a great experience! I never need to call, but when I do I’m able to get quick answers and move on with my day. I called the office today hoping to review my auto policy, it had been a few years. I spoke to Lucy and she could not have been more helpful and lovely. She took the time to find me a policy that worked best for my family. Thank you Lucy for your help and being so friendly on the phone!”
JIMMY G
FIREWATER SALOON Your Neighborhood Spot for Delicious Eats!
BY RESIDENT THERESA STRAUB
In February, we had the pleasure of dining at Firewater Saloon. If you are looking for a restaurant with down home cooking, that is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Firewater Saloon is it! Owner Jamie Suckow provided our group with a variety of appetizers, entrees and a dessert. We were impressed by what they had to offer.
The first appetizer that was brought out to us was the Creamy Mac N Cheese Boat. It was then followed by their Rodeo Egg Rolls, Corn Fritters and their scrumptious Fried Green Tomatoes. “The Fried Green Tomatoes were so good! Perfectly fried - and the toppings added just the right touch. Great appetizer with a lot of flavors!” said local resident Sara Kraut.
Another favorite was their BBQ Chicken Salad. This was one of Holly Schneider’s favorite dishes, “The BBQ sauce had just the right kick/fire to keep the salad interesting.” Listed under their Down Home Cooking part of the menu, we were served their version of Jambalaya, as well as their Meatloaf Cupcakes. These were both unique in presentation and taste. We were also treated to one of their popular breakfast dishes. Chicken ‘n Biscuits that was served with country potatoes. This was one of the favorite dishes of local resident, Jeff Schneider. Under their House Specialties we were served their Shrimp Po’ Boy plate. Sara described this dish as, “Like they do in Louisiana - a yummy Cajun shrimp po’ boy! The shrimp was perfectly cooked and placed on tasty garlic bread. A great option if you are craving a taste of New Orleans!” Holly agreed by saying, “it was a little heartier of a dish that hit the right fire level with the Cajun spices and chipotle mayo.”
Finally, we were served their Apple Pie Eggs Rolls. This dessert was described by Sara as, “So good! A perfect dessert to share if you are craving apple pie.” Local resident, Tré Kraut, summed up our dining
Would you like to be at the table at our next Restaurant Review? Email strollparkridgeevents@ gmail.com to reserve your spot!
experience perfectly! “As a person that enjoys bar food, Firewater Saloon served some interesting and creative dishes. I will provide a 1 out of 5 rating, 5 being the best!”
Firewater Saloon also offers catering, and parties on location that can accommodate up to 100 people. In addition to great food, they regularly have live events on either Thursday, Friday or Saturday evening. Check the event schedule on their website for more info. We got to enjoy a Beatles Tribute Band on the night that we dined there.
Firewater Saloon is located at 6689 N Oliphant Ave, in Edison Park. Their hours are Sat 7:00 AM - 3:00 AM. Sun - Fri 7:00 AM - 2:00 AM.
Chicken N’ Biscuits
Shrimp Po’ Boy
Tré & Sara Kraut enjoying Firewater’s specialist drinks: Drunk In Love and the Raspberry White Russian.
BBQ Chicken Salad
Rodeo Egg Rolls
Awarded Best Massage by STROLL Park Ridge Best of the Best Readers Choice Awards 2023 & 2024
Kiwanis of Park Ridge Steps Up to Support Teen Mental Health
BY RESIDENT AND KIWANIS CO-PRESIDENT KRIS CICHOWSKI AND KIWANIS CO-PRESIDENT JOANNA BERTUCCI
“OUR LOCAL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL experienced a surge in demand for resources to help teenagers navigate their emotional challenges, “said Kris Cichowski, Co-President of the Park Ridge Kiwanis club. “We felt compelled to help in some way and went on to collaborate with District 207 School-Based Health Center nurses and social workers to create a Teen Mental Health Kit project.” 300 Mental Health Care Kits were created to help students in need of support. Each kit included a journal, affirmation cards, relaxation exercises, and essential contact information for outreach and intervention.
Kit assembly events were also designed to help increase mental health awareness in the community. “We wanted to educate, enlighten, and empower each other each time we met,” said Kiwanis CoPresident Joanna Bertucci. “Each assembly event involved a broad mix of 40+ individuals representing members from the Maine South Key Club, school faculty, parents, and community leaders in addition to Kiwanis club members.”
“It’s been exciting to see Mental Health Champions emerge within
our schools and community,” remarks Kris Cichowski. “As with any project, community partnerships are the key to success. Our deepest gratitude is extended to the Kiwanis Children Fund, City of Park Ridge Community Health Commission, Ascension Resurrection Medical Center Foundation, Park Ridge Presbyterian Church, Maine South High School Key Club, and Stroll Park Ridge magazine for their dedicated involvement to promote this project and help fund supplies for the kits.” Plans are underway to continue this project next school year.
To learn more or get involved, visit www.KiwanisPR.org or email KiwanisPR1980@gmail.com
POSITIVELY PARK RIDGE PERSON OF THE MONTH
BRIAN KRAUSE
Celebrating a dad, volunteer, and the spirit of community
Brian Krause — a devoted dad, tireless community volunteer, enthusiastic Boy Scout leader, and the spirited soul who brought Buddy the Elf to life in Park Ridge. For 13 years, Brian has called our town home, weaving his generous spirit into the very fabric of the community. This month, we’re thrilled to honor him as our “Positively Park Ridge Person of the Month.”
A HOMETOWN CONNECTION
Brian’s roots run deep in Park Ridge. He was born at Lutheran General Hospital. His mother grew up here. It’s as if destiny always had Park Ridge in store for him. “I’ve lived in Park Ridge for the
past 13 years but grew up in Bartlett,” Brian shares. His return feels like a fullcircle moment, reinforcing his intrinsic connection to our town.
FAMILY AT THE HEART
At the core of Brian’s world is his family. His wife, Michelle, grew up just beyond Canfield and the expressway in Oriole Park. After studying interior architecture, she pivoted to become “the world’s greatest mom and dedicated community volunteer” following a layoff and the arrival of their first child. Together, they have three incredible kids: Jason (16), Abbey (14) and Nora (8).
EMBODYING THE HOLIDAY
Spirit Perhaps one of Brian’s most memorable contributions was during the Inaugural Park Ridge Christmas Stroll last December. Donning the iconic yellow tights and green jacket, Brian transformed into Buddy the Elf, bringing the beloved character to life on our very own streets. “Playing Buddy the Elf feels absolutely ridiculous but it makes people happy so that’s why I popped on my yellow tights and elf cap to help out with the Inaugural Christmas Stroll event.” His portrayal not only entertained but also encapsulated his commitment to spreading joy and building community spirit.
INSPIRATION AND ASPIRATION
When asked about his inspirations, Brian doesn’t hesitate. “Of course, my parents are my initial inspiration in life,” he reflects. “My wife helps me keep going every day as I pull her into all my weird ideas that she often gets stuck helping bail me out of.” He also gives a heartfelt nod to his Uncle Jimmy, his biggest fan who continually pushes him to keep trying. But Brian’s aspirations extend beyond personal circles. “I hope that I inspire my family, especially my kids, to always try to take one more step out of their comfort zone,” he shares. Through his work in Scouting, the Park Ridge Historical Society, and various community efforts, Brian hopes to reach young minds who “learn something from me and go on to do great things.”
WHY PARK RIDGE IS HOME
Brian believes that Park Ridge is more than just a city — it’s a community bound by a common goal. “I believe Park Ridgians come and stay here because they feel part of something,” he muses. Despite being nestled
between expressways, an airport, and bustling streets, “there is still a small-town feel. We have easy access out of here when needed, but when taking a stroll through town, you’ll probably bump into a friend.”
A PILLAR OF THE COMMUNITY
Brian’s involvement in Park Ridge is nothing short of inspiring:
Cubmaster of Pack 50, Assistant Scoutmaster at Troop 50, Supporter of Troop 105G and Vice President of the Park Ridge Historical
“Playing Buddy the Elf feels absolutely ridiculous but it makes people happy so that’s why I popped on my yellow tights and elf cap to help out with the Inaugural Christmas Stroll event.”
— BRIAN KRAUSE
Society. ”With these organizations, I try to help out the community wherever I can,” he says humbly.
WORDS OF WISDOM
As our Positively Park Ridge Person of the Month, Brian shares timeless advice on being a good neighbor and friend: “Your kindergarten teacher already taught you the secret. Treat others as you’d like to be treated. Additionally, karma is real, so make sure to help others at all times — it’ll probably help you back someday.”
A LASTING IMPACT
Brian Krause is more than just a resident of Park Ridge; he’s a beacon of community spirit, generosity, and genuine kindness. His dedication to fostering growth— both in the youth he mentors and the community he loves — sets a powerful example for all of us. If you see him around town, whether he’s jogging at dawn, wielding a power tool, or perhaps dressed as Buddy the Elf at the Christmas Stroll spreading holiday cheer, be sure to give him a heartfelt thanks for all he does!
Do you know a POSITIVE person in Park Ridge? We bet you do! Nominate them to be honored! Email strollparkridge@gmail.com
QUALITY. COMFORT.
SUNSHINE
“Never A Cloudy Day When There is Sunshine” - John McNabola
BY RESIDENT SUNSHINE (JOHN) MCNABOLA
MY NAME IS SUNSHINE and I am 12 years old. I have been a fixture in Park Ridge since I was 8 weeks old. I enjoy shopping uptown with my mom and sisters Gillian and Jessica, riding with my Dad in vintage cars and cruising through town in the sidecar of my dad’s motorcycle. I get most excited walking in the Memorial Day parade and running up to people in the crowd!
Family Members: John, Jennifer, Gillian and Jessica plus Dimitri the cat.
Is your pet an angel or a bit of a troublemaker or spoiled?
Sunshine is an angel with bouts of troublemaking. Sweet as pie and very empathetic. She loved making visits to the elderly at her grandma’s assisted living home. Sunshine is a lovable ray of Sunshine!
Does your pet have any specific talents or tricks? Fetching sticks, rolling over, running up and down our play set slide.
Is there anything other neighbors or pets would know your pet for?
Sunshine is very protective of her yard but instantly friendly once she meets others! She is famous for sneaking into our neighbor’s yard and licking their BBQ tools. In the mornings, she is a regular at the bus stop. Adeline and Eleanor Lange are her biggest fans and regularly drop off sticks on our front porch.
How would your pet tell the story of the day they met you and your human family? My family came to visit me and my siblings when I was 8 weeks old. It was love at first sight when Gillian and Jessica ages 8 and 12 ran up to our litter with so
much energy and enthusiasm. I was praying they would pick me and bring me home. Jessica picked me up and while we were cuddling she said “this sweet one is perfect and her golden color is as bright as the sun”. Gillian said “we can name her Sunshine!” We have been the best friends ever since.
Has your pet ever run away or gotten into trouble? She lacks self control with food and will befriend anyone offering affection and treats. She especially gets into trouble with small children handling food. Friday Night Concerts In The Park are her favorites with picnic treats all laid out for the taking! Her favorite trick is to slyly snatch and drag a long loaf of French bread through the crowd and generate widespread laughter!
What are her personality traits? Sunshine is playful, social, protective, high energy, swimmer, lovable and loves to cuddle.
What is your pet’s favorite Park Ridge park? Jaycee Park. She especially loves to try and join in on Park Ridge soccer game in action.
What is her pet peeve? Attention to other animals and her feline brother Dimitri. When family members interact with other pets, she instantly seeks attention by barking, running in circles or bringing forth one of her toys.
*Editor’s Note: March in the Memorial Day parade with Sunshine! Sunshine and all our four-legged friends will gather with Stroll Park Ridge to honor all our four-legged heros! Details coming soon!
A Stroll Down Memory Lane
Ron Santo’s Pizzeria – A Park Ridge Hall of Fame in 1965
BY FORMER RESIDENT AND AUTHOR VIC LARSON
I WAS TEN IN 1965 when my Cubs-obsessed father took me to meet Golden Glove baseball great Ron Santo at the grand opening of his pizzeria at 805 Northwest Highway. He smiled at my Cubs cap and jacket when he came out of the kitchen, wiping the flour from his pizza-making hands on a dusty white apron. He turned and yelled, “Hey Glenn (Beckert), come on out here and meet a fan!” They each autographed a photo, and Ron gave me the little souvenir baseball bat shown below. Side note: After it closed, Santo’s became J.D. Kadd’s for at least twenty years. I’m sure it was another Park Ridge favorite.
Photo credit: Vic Larson
APRIL IN PARK RIDGE
BY RESIDENT PAUL HANSEN
It’s that lovely time of year I love the season changing here Spring has sprung, inside and out Squirrels and bunnies hop about
The grass is green, the leaves fill the trees
The sprouting flowers will soon draw the bees Birds sing their early morning song
Reminding us of new things that come along Skies are blue with white puffy clouds Children’s happy voices laugh out loud People are out every where you go Riding bikes, jogging or walking slow
The beauty of Mother Nature is everywhere Life starts anew with life for us to share
So stop and smell the roses before it’s too late! There is so much for us all to appreciate!!
COMMUNITY EVENTS
TUESDAY, APRIL 1 - SATURDAY, MAY 31
Park Ridge Park District Pool PassesEarly Bird Discount
Get your pool passes at a discounted rate before May 31st. Purchase your pool pass in April and receive two complimentary outdoor pool daily guest passes to use with your membership. prparks.org
SATURDAY, APRIL 5
10:00am -11:30am
Mary, Seat of Wisdom - Preschool & Kindergarten Open House
THURSDAY, APRIL 17
Holy Thursday
FRIDAY, APRIL 18
Good Friday
SATURDAY, APRIL 19
Park Ridge Baseball Practices Begin Park Ridge Baseball practices begin on April 19th. Various dates and times. https://www.prbaseball.com/
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30
9:00am -10:15am
Stroll Park Ridge Monthly Community Coffee
Harp & Fiddle, 110 Main Street 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
Mary, Seat of Wisdom School, 1352 S. Cumberland Ave. Open house open to all new prospective families. Please call (847) 825 - 2500
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Stroll Park Ridge Book Club 303 Wisner Street
Book discussion will be at Joe and Sue Saccomanno’s home: 303 Wisner Street. Refreshments will be served. Email strollparkridgeevents@ gmail.com to register!
SATURDAY, APRIL 12
9:00am -12:00pm
Pedals for the Parks Bike and Trike Donation Drop-Off Centennial Aquatic Center
Your donation benefits programs for Park Ridge Friends of the Parks and promotes reuse and bicycling in our community! In exchange for your donation, you will receive: 20% off the purchase of another bike at the sale and early shopping privileges the day of the sale. prfriendsoftheparks@gmail.com
SATURDAY, APRIL 12
11:00am - 1:00pm
Park Ridge History Center Opens 721 N. Prospect Avenue
The History Center will be open 11-1 the second and fourth Saturdays of the month through November. It will be open additional Saturdays from mid-April through May, 11-1 pm. info@parkridgehistorycenter.org
SUNDAY, APRIL 20 Easter
SATURDAY, APRIL 26
9:00am -12:30pm
Pedals for the Parks Bike and Trike Sale Centennial Aquatic Center
Hosted by the Park Ridge Friends of the Parks. Individuals who donated bikes on April 12th are invited to shop early from 9-10 am. Register your bike with the Park Ridge Police! prfriendsoftheparks@gmail.com
SATURDAY, APRIL 26
11:00am - 2:00pm
20th Century Foundation’s Annual Spring Luncheon - “Welcome to Italy” Chateau Ritz, 9100 N. Milwaukee Ave., Niles
A fun filled event with food, entertainment, and raffles. Funds will be raised for The Maine Township SchoolBased Health Center. Contact Janelle Marcuccili at janellemarcuccilli@ yahoo.com or 773.255.1448
SATURDAY, APRIL 26
1:00pm - 3:00pm
Go Green Park Ridge Spring Forest Preserve Cleanup
Dam No. 4 Forest Preserve parking lot (across the street from Maine South). Help clean up the forest preserve and get some fresh air! https://www.gogreenparkridge. org/cleanup-events.html
SATURDAY, MAY 17
9:00am - 1:00pm
SAVE THE DATE!
Park Ridge Garden Club Plant Sale Cumberland Park, 101 S. Cumberland Avenue
Annuals, perennials, herbs, vegetables, hanging baskets, geranium plants, and member grown plants will be sold. ParkRidgeGardenClub.org
TUESDAY, JUNE 17
6:00pm - 8:00pm
SAVE THE DATE!
8th Annual Stroll Park Ridge Ice Cream Social Dairy Queen - 2 Devon Ave. Free Community Event! Enjoy DQ ice cream, burgers & hot dogs. Free will donations accepted for the local Boy Scouts. strollparkridge@gmail.com
THURSDAY, JUNE 19
6:00pm - 9:00pm
SAVE THE DATE!
Stroll SUMMER SOCIAL & Best of Park Ridge 2025 Readers Choice Awards Celebration!
Studio 108 @ Harp & Fiddle
Enjoy complimentary heavy appetizers, entertainment, awards and cash bar. Best of Park Ridge winners will be awarded at the celebration. Vote for your favorites in 50+ categories. Voting ends May 1st.
strollparkridge@gmail.com
AROUND TOWN
Congratulations to Tyler Fortis on placing 4th at the IHSA Wrestling State Tournament!
Proud Maine South Varsity Hawkettes Poms’ moms celebrating the victory!
Congratulations to Sgt. Anthony Raitano on his well-deserved promotion to Commander of the Park Ridge Police Department.
Congratulations to Deputy Fire Chief Derek Decker, Deputy Police Chief Gene Ware, and Public Works Grounds Supervisor Brad Anderson on their 25 years of service!
Precious Pet, Rocko, enjoying the last snowfall of 2025!
Roosevelt Elementary School International Night was a fun evening for all!
Maine South Varsity Hawkettes Poms take home 1st Place at the NDA National Champions in Orlando, FL. WTG girls!
Congrats to Emerson Middle School’s Girls’ Wrestling Team on their championship!
Families enjoying splashing around at the Park District’s Valentine’s Bash!
STROLL Park Ridge Book Monthly Club Members gathered at Pam Eskra’s home to discuss the book titled: The Divorecees. Interested in joining? Email strollparkridge@gmail.com for more info.
ANUSHKA SREENIVASAN
What street do you live on? Prospect.
How many siblings do you have? Do you have any pets? I have one brother who is a junior in high school and one dog named Oreo.
What school do you go to? I go to Lincoln Middle School and I’m in sixth grade.
What do you like to do in your free time? I like hanging out with my friends and volunteering at the Greater Chicago Food Depository. I volunteer at the Depository every year and we make meals for people who need it. This food specifically goes to people in Chicago.
Do you play any sports? I play soccer, basketball, dodgeball, and flag football. I started soccer when I was five and basketball when I was eight. I started dodgeball two years ago and flag football last year.
What is your favorite thing to do in Park Ridge? Hang out with friends at the Uptown Starbucks.
What is your favorite meal including dessert and drinks? My favorite meal includes crepes, with Poppi as my drink, and a cookie for dessert.
What is your favorite vacation you have ever been on? My favorite vacation I have ever been on was probably when I went to the Galapagos Islands. It was really fun there and we had many cool experiences. The people there were nice and fun to be around. One specific thing I liked about the Galapagos Islands was that the resort we stayed at was really close to the ocean. Another neat thing was when we went snorkeling with sharks. That was a really fun experience. I would 100% recommend.
What is your dream place to visit on vacation? My dream place to visit is Paris. I want to go to Paris because it is full of so many cool and fun places that make it so much more interesting.
What is your favorite memory? My favorite memory is when I went to Universal Studios. It was awesome!
BY RESIDENT & JUNIOR WRITER JOSETTE STEINFELS
DID YOU KNOW?
Did you know…..that Mary, Seat of Wisdom parish celebrates its 70th anniversary this year?
BY RESIDENT JOAN MATTINGLY
ST PAUL OF THE CROSS had been founded in 1911 and its first church, seating 350, opened in 1912. By the 1950s, the Catholic population of Park Ridge was burgeoning. St. Paul of the Cross built a new church building seating 900 in the early ‘50s. On 10-27-55 Cardinal Stritch called for the creation of a new parish to serve the growing Catholic community. A month later he appointed St. Paul’s assistant, Rev. Edward Dowling, to be pastor of the new community with boundaries of Belle Plaine, Higgins, Canfield and the Des Plaines River.
Shortly after the announcement of the new parish, Father Dowling attended a CFM (Christian Family Movement) meeting at the home of liturgical artist Melville Steinfels. Steinfels had spread out on his living room floor a just-completed commission for the Newman Center at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. The mural was titled Maria, Sedes Sapientiae, (Mary, Seat of Wisdom). Father Dowling’s mother’s
name was Mary. The new parish had a name! It is the only parish community in the country with this title.
The first masses were held at the nowdemolished Sanford Merrill elementary school, now Brickton Park. The archdiocese had purchased land on the east side of Cumberland at Granville and proposed to build a church and school on that site. The City of Park Ridge determined that the site was not large enough, so the archdiocese purchased the pumpkin farm on the west side of Cumberland.
Since the new parishioners had just helped fund the construction of St. Paul of the Cross, Father Dowling was determined to build both a church and school at a reasonable cost. Fox & Fox was selected project architect; Steinfels designed the sanctuary, its furnishings and appointments as well
as the mosaics of Mary and Joseph, the stainedglass windows and the original Stations of the Cross.
In the intervening years, subsequent pastors have overseen some renovations and updating of the church. In 2025, Mary, Seat of Wisdom celebrates 70 years as a worshipping community!
Mary, Seat of Wisdom 920 Graville Ave Park Ridge 847.825.3153 mswparish.org
Mary, Seat of Wisdom’s current church layout.
Mary, Seat of Wisdom Church.
Mary artifact displayed at MSW was designed by Melville Steinfels.
