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!
APPAREL FOLLKEE (773) 715-8141 www.follkee.com
ATTORNEY
Law Office of Magdalena A. Murzanski, LLC Magdalena Murzanski (847) 533-7053 MagMurLaw.com
Chardonnee Cunningham Real Estate (847) 528-9998 www.jsirblog.com/
Comfortable patient experience in a relaxing and modern environment.
A Park Ridge family proud to be contributing to the quality of life for our neighbors and friends. Located in Park Ridge since 1978, with Lauren Rubino, DMD joining the practice ready to continue our high standards for the next 40 years.
Ambassadors
Are
We’re
To
RESTAURANTS
A + Italian Steakhouse (773) 853-2325 www.aplusitalian steakhouse.com
Saltwater Coastal Grill (773) 312-3653
saltwaterrosemont.com
Thalaiva’s Indian Kitchen (847) 696-7029 www.thalaivas Indiankitchen.com
RESTAURANTS / ENTERTAINMENT
Village of Rosemont (847) 993-8312 rosemont.com
SCHOOLS
Mary, Seat of Wisdom (847) 825-2777 www.mswparish.org
Resurrection College Prep High School (773) 775-6616 reshs.org
VEIN AND AESTHETIC CHICAGO VEINCARE CENTER (847) 983-0445 www.yourveinexpert.com
DISCLAIMER: This publication is also known as Park Ridge Living, is owned by The N2 Company, and is not affiliated with or sponsored by any club, developer, or homeowners association. Articles and advertisements in this publication and opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of N2 but remain solely those of the author(s) or advertiser(s). The paid advertisements contained within this magazine are not endorsed or recommended by N2.
Illinois Helpline for Opioids and Other Substances
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
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.
Anthony Tripp Photography amtphotos2011@ gmail.com
Crystal Parenti crystalparenti photography@
Campbell Micek
Ivana Kiki Zezelj Marianna Miulli
Vic Larson
Theresa Straub
Harriet Hart
August
This summer, Main South’s Class of 1965 celebrated their 60th reunion—a milestone filled with laughter, memory, and a legacy of community that still echoes through our town today. Their joy reminds us just how special it is to grow, learn, and live in a place that feels like home.
That’s why we’re thrilled to be hosting our 8th Annual Back-to-School Bash
this month—a celebration that bridges generations and brings neighbors together for one more sweet taste of summer. Inside this issue, don’t miss our latest Restaurant Review, a spotlight on a local gem you’ll definitely want to visit. Plus, meet the Cowie family in this month’s *Meet Your Neighbors** feature, a tribute to the warmth and heart that define Park Ridge families.
Looking to get some steps in? Join our new community in motion!! The Park Ridge Strollers are on the move! We meet every Monday starting later this month. See inside this issue for details! And don’t forget—our Stroll Community Coffees are still brewing! Join us the last Wednesday of each month at the Park Ridge Country Club for casual chats, warm cups, and great connections.
Here’s to strolling into August with gratitude, good company, and maybe even a little back-to-school spirit.
Dolly McCarthy, Publisher
LET’S GET TOGETHER!
YOU SHOULD BE HERE!
Stroll Park Ridge Monthly Community Coffees!
August 27th & September 24th, 9 - 10:15 AM
Don’t miss the Stroll Park Ridge Monthly coffee! Open to all in the Park Ridge community. Our next community coffee will take place Wednesday, August 27th, 9:00 am - 10:15 am at the Park Ridge Country Club. We look forward to seeing you all!
“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.
LOCAL EVENTS
Monday, June 2 - Saturday, August 16
Park Ridge Library - Summer Reading Program
20 South Prospect Avenue
The more you read, the more chances you get to win a fun prize. https://www.parkridgelibrary.org/
Friday, August 1
6:00pm - 9:00pm
Cruisin’ Park Ridge
Uptown Park Ridge- Library Parking lot
Free Community Event! Free to display your car. Live entertainment, activities for kids and more. Last date for this summer is September 5th. parkridgechamber.org
Friday, August 1
8:00pm -10:00pm
Concerts in the Park
Hodges Park - 101 S. Courtland Ave.
Grab a blanket, chairs, drinks and good company to enjoy the Brian Patti Big Band, presented by Park Ridge Fine Arts Society. www.prfas.org
Saturday, August 2 - Saturday, October 25
7:00am - 1:00pm
Park Ridge Farmers Market
15 Prairie Ave. (between Maine and Garden)
Every Saturday thru October! parkridge.us
Sunday, August 3
10:00am -11:00am
Yoga in the Park now through August 10th!
Hodges Park, 101 Courtland Ave.
Join in at Hodges Park on Sunday mornings through August 10th or free community yoga! Ages 5-12 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Stroll Park Ride is a proud sponsor. www.prparks.org
Tuesday, August 5
6:00pm - 8:30pm
National Night Out
Hodges Park, 101 S. Courtland Ave.
Join us for this Stroll sponsored event. https://www.parkridge.us/your_government/city_ departments/community_events.php
Wednesday, August 6
7:00pm -10:00pm
Movie in the Park - The Land Before Time Prospect Park, 733 N Prospect Ave. Family fun night! Movie begins at dusk. www.prfas.org
Friday, August 8
8:00pm -10:00pm
Concerts in the Park
Hodges Park - 101 S. Courtland Ave.
Grab a blanket, chairs, drinks and good company to enjoy the Illinois Brass Band, presented by Park Ridge Fine Arts Society. www.prfas.org
Saturday, August 9
Peter Krol Memorial Golf Outing
Tam O’Shanter Golf Course, 6700 W Howard Street, Niles
All donations made in honor of the Peter Krol Memorial Golf Outing will benefit NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness).
Stroll Park Ridge is a proud sponsor of this event. www.namiccns.org/peter-krol-memorial-golf-outing/
Thursday, August 14
District 207 First Day of School maine207.org
Friday, August 15
8:00pm -10:00pm Concerts in the Park Hodges Park - 101 S. Courtland Ave.
Grab a blanket, chairs, drinks and good company to enjoy the Brian Patti Big Band, presented by Park Ridge Fine Arts Society. www.prfas.org
Saturday, August 16
10:00am -12:00pm
Summer Reading Sendoff Park Ridge Library Lawn, 20 S. Prospect Ave. Parkridgelibrary.org
Sunday, August 17
9:00am -12:00pm
Gratitude in Motion - Kickin’ It for Charity Norridge Park District, 4631 N Overhill Ave, Norridge Join Gratitude Generation for a Kickball Tournament & Service Fest. Stroll Park Ridge is a proud sponsor of this event. gratitudegeneration.org
Thursday, August 21
District 64 First Day of School visit d64.org
Thursday, August 21
4:30pm - 7:00pm
Stroll PARK RIDGE 8th Annual Back to School Bash
Prospect Park, 733 N. Prospect Ave.
FREE event for the Community!! Bounce house, balloons, train rides, supper, ice cream, face painting and more! Donations will be accepted for the Park Ridge Friends of the Parks. RSVP to strollparkridgeevents@gmail.com
Saturday, August 23
8:00am -12:00pm
Horner Hustle Charity Race
Centennial Park, 100 S. Western Ave.
The Horner Hustle event raises money for Project Purple, a nonprofit dedicated to finding a cure for pancreatic cancer. Stroll Park Ridge is proud sponsor of this event. https://raceroster. com/events/2025/103726/horner-hustle-2025
Monday, August 25
6:30pm - 7:00pm
Park Ridge Strollers - Every Monday Evening 132 S. Prospect Ave.
Step into something good with the Park Ridge Strollers. A new walking group powered by STROLL Park Ridge. Meet neighbors, get some steps in, enjoy the fresh air and good company. Zero pressure, maximum good vibes. strollparkridge.com
Wednesday, August 27
9:00am -10:15am
Stroll Park Ridge Monthly Community Coffee
Park Ridge Country Club
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!
Please visit www.Strollparkridge.com to RSVP
Friday, August 29 7:30 pm
Maine South Varsity Football Home Game vs. Lincoln-Way East
Maine South High School, 111 S. Dee Road
Friday, August 29 7:30pm
Maine East Varsity Football Home Game vs. Aurora East High School
Maine East High School, 2601 W. Dempster St.
Saturday, September 6
12:00pm -10:00pm Vine Street BBQ Competition City Hall, 505 Butler Place https://www.vinestbbq.org
Saturday, December 13
10:00am - 5:00pm
SAVE THE DATE!! Stroll PARK RIDGE’S 2nd Annual Park Ridge CHRISTMAS Stroll FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! Park Ridge Christmas Stroll featuring live entertainment, Santa Visits, Winter Wonderland, Gingerbread House Contest, Ugly Sweater Contest, Bake Sale, Cake Walks, Vintage Christmas Train display, caroling, concerts, crafts, snowball fights with Elf, Christmas Pub Stroll, and much more! Volunteers are always welcome! Email us at strollparkridgeevents.com Check out photos from last year’s Stroll on our new website! www.StrollParkRidge.com
SKYLARK GARAGE
COWIE TO THE SAY HELLO HELLO FAMILY! COWIE
BY RESIDENTS MATT AND ALEXA COWIE
HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD?
We moved to our house near Maine Park in 2019 but Matt has lived in Park Ridge since 1985. Alexa is from Traverse City Michigan and lived there until 2013. All four kids were born at Lutheran General in Park Ridge.
IS THERE ANYTHING YOUR NEIGHBORS MIGHT KNOW YOU FOR? We have a big family in Park Ridge and the kids are very active in multiple sports. Our house is also on a corner and we can be seen outside typically. Neighbors like to stop by. Our older three kids have all gone to Maine Park (in the neighborhood)for preschool. Emma and Ryne are currently at Carpenter Elementary and Charlie will join them in kindergarten this month! Go Cougars!
ANTHONY TRIPP PHOTOGRAPHY
FAMILY MEMBERS: Matt, Alexa, Emma (8), Ryne (6), Charlie (5), Lily (3)
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WITH YOUR SPOUSE AND HOW DID YOU MEET? Our 10 year anniversary is this month!! We were married at the Community Church in Uptown Park Ridge surrounded by our friends and family. We met through mutual friends in Traverse City, Michigan during the Cherry Festival. Started dating in 2013 and got engaged July 2014 in Traverse City. 10 years married and four kids later living life in Park Ridge!
TELL US ABOUT YOUR KIDS. We are always on the run and enjoy staying active. Emma (3rd grade), Ryne (1st) are both enjoying their time at Carpenter. Charlie is joining the Cougar family this year! Emma is the best big sister with a huge heart She plays basketball, does tumbling and is on the cheer team. She is also joining girls flag football this fall. Ryne plays flag football, soccer, basketball, baseball and is taking golf lessons. He is the reader of the family and can tell you any random fact. Charlie never stops moving, plays soccer, baseball, does tumbling and is the cartwheel queen. Lily is the full time cheerleader for her older siblings but can’t wait to get on the field soon! She can usually be seen on the sidelines and always has a smile on her face!
TELL US SOMETHING INTERESTING, UNIQUE, OR UNUSUAL ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. Being a family of 6 and with the close ages of our kids; the kids are constantly together and are best buddies! Emma, Ryne and Charlie are very close in age; we had three under three for a while. Then little Lily came along little big after. There are a total of 22 Cowie’s in Park Ridge and it is great that the kids get to grow up with their cousins in the area. Family and friends are very important to us and we try to get together with each other as much as possible.
RADIANCE BEGINS HERE
WHAT ARE YOUR PROFESSIONS? Matt works at CBRE as an Industrial Real Estate Broker and focuses primarily on the Chicago and O’Hare market. Alexa is a stay at home mom; always on the go with the kids school and activities.
ARE YOU INVOLVED IN THE COMMUNITY AT ALL? Matt and Alexa have both been involved in coaching Cheer, Football and Soccer for the kids. Alexa also volunteers at the school for events and classroom activities.
DESCRIBE YOUR PERFECT DAY IN PARK RIDGE AS A FAMILY. Up early and on the go! As a family of 6 we like to keep moving and stay active. We would probably have a game of basketball in the yard and mix in some baseball. If we’re not going to a game or two. Might have friends over; the kids all love to hangout! We love to grill in the warmer months. And the kids enjoy having dance parties whenever they can too!
FAVORITES
FAVORITE PARK RIDGE RESTAURANT? Harp & Fiddle.
FAVORITE PARK RIDGE PARK? Maine Park.
FAVORITE PARK RIDGE HISTORIC HOUSE? 421 Cortland.
Stroll Summer Social & Best of Park Ridge 2025 Readers Choice Awards Night
Local businesses honored & recognized; residents kick off summer with a celebration!
Congratulations to all the recipients of the Stroll Park Ridge Best of Park Ridge Readers Choice Awards 2025!! We are Park Ridge Proud of you! You have worked hard and earned it! It was a very special night on June 19th, with nearly 200 in attendance at the Stroll Summer Social and Best of 2025. Attendees enjoyed dining, dancing, entertainment and more! We have so many to thank including our entertainer --- the amazing Tony Ocean. A shout out to Harp & Fiddle for hosting our annual Stroll Summer
Social; all the residents and business leaders who came out to celebrate and elevate our community; and finally to our event sponsors who made this event possible. We couldn’t have done it without you. We want to applaud Event Couture for their amazing decor!
John Tunnell Insurance Agency/ Allstate, Sue Hall @properties, Home Comfort Services, Be Local NW Chicagoland, and Event Couture. Stroll staff is incredibly grateful to be your community magazine
and build community, highlight the good, support local businesses and not for profits. Congratulations are also in order for Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge which was honored with Charity of the Year and to residents Ted Sigg and Theresa Straub who were honored with the awards - Positively Park Ridge People of the Year 2025.
Check out of the complete list of winners within this issue. The list can also be found on the Stroll Park Ridge Best of Park Ridge website: Strollparkridge.com
PHOTO CREDIT ANTHONY TRIPP & STROLL STAFF
The STROLL Team!
Positively Park Ridge Person of the Year: Theresa Straub.
Best Hair Salon Winner: Halo on Higgins.
Crystal Parenti and her family.
Positively Park Ridge Person of the Year: Ted Sigg.
Dr. Niki R. Laskaris and her team.
STROLL Publisher Dolly McCarthy with interns on left and right: Mari Mirulli & Kiki Zezelj
Best Massage Winner: Vive! Therapeutic Massage.
Best Photographer Winner: Crystal Parenti Photography.
Best Travel Agency Winner: Uproute Travel.
Best Chiropractor Winner: Silver Lining Chiropractic.
Relive the magic with Tony Ocean.
Best Orthodontic Practice Winner: DiFranco Orthodontics.
Best Professional Counseling Winner: Athans and Associates.
STROLL Junior writer Harriet Hart (L), Mom, Cathy, and sisters.
Best Indian Restaurant Winner: Thalaiva’s Indian Kitchen.
Joanna Bertucci and Kris Cichowski of Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge.
Best Auto Repair Shop Winner: Uptown Auto Repair.
Best Law Practice Winner: Law Office of Magdalena A. Murzanski.
Best Daycare Center Winner: Sugar Plum Tree Daycare Center.
Stroll Park Ridge 8th Annual Ice Cream Social Kicks Off Summer!
The FUN starts at DQ! Social raises funds for local boy scouts.
Summer got off to a sweet start at the Stroll Park Ridge 8th Annual Ice Cream Social! It was a perfect evening on the happiest corner in Park Ridge, with dinner and delicious treats at Dairy Queen. We had a blast spending time with our neighbors and enjoying some fun together. A huge shoutout to the amazing DQ team — once again, you knocked it out of the park with your generosity, tasty treats, and outstanding, friendly service! Thank you to all the incredible sponsors! Home Comfort, Rubino Dentistry, Allstate - John Tunnell Agency, BeLocal NW Chicagoland, Skylark Garage and Sue Hall @properties. Stroll Park Ridge “passed the hat” and raised funds for local Boy Scout troops, all thanks to YOUR generosity, Park Ridge! See you back at DQ soon for more of the best summer fun and treats in town!
AROUND TOWN
Making a splash with Dad at the Centennial Pool.
Pictured L to R: Kevin & Dean Haggerty and John & Camden Corcoran.
Kiwanis Annual Safety Awards. Thank you for your service!
Kiwanis Safety Award Winner, 2024 Fire Fighter of the Year: Joseph Ciske.
Park Ridge Garden Club 30th Annual Garden Walk.
Hodges Park for Concerts in the Park.
Park Ridge Concerts in the Park.
Concerts in the Park - Making memories with melodies. Photo of Friends of the Parks
The newly renovated South Park ribbon cutting ceremony.
2025-2026 Park Ridge Newcomers Club new Board.
Park Ridge Park District’s annual Fishing Derby at Wildwood.
The 20th Century Club of Park Ridge awarded scholarships to six Park Ridge students this year. Pictured is Hanna Bogdanowicz (Loyola Academy) who is planning to attend Loyola University.
Bill Scharringhausen admires the Kiwanis 100 year celebration display at the Park Ridge library.
We love our STROLL Summer interns!
STROLL Book Club - June gathering
Thalaiva’s at the Park Ridge Farmers Market.
Mike and Lynn Harczak.
Enjoying an early morning Stroll at the Farmers Market. Photo: Brigid Madden with her kids.
John M. Sisto, D.D.S
Beyond Dentistry: The role of an Oral Surgeon
BY DR. JOHN SISTO
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Edison Park and spent a lot of time at the Pickwick Theater, Hills Hobby Shop and the Park Ridge pools.
What inspired you to be an oral surgeon?
I was fortunate to have a family friend who was an oral surgeon and was greatly influenced by him.
What do you find most fulfilling about what you do?
Oral and maxillofacial surgery blends medicine and dentistry and provides tremendous benefits.
Tell us what being an oral and maxillofacial surgeon involves.
Oral and maxillofacial surgery (oral surgery) is a specialty of dentistry that diagnoses and treats diseases, injuries and defects of the face, mouth and jaws, including both hard and soft tissues. This results in a wide range of procedures from removal of teeth to complex facial reconstruction for trauma, congenital or developmental disorders and tumors.
Most people are familiar with having their wisdom teeth out by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. What is the best time to have wisdom teeth removed?
It generally takes place during the teen years. The exact timing is not really related to age, but the development of
the root structure on a radiograph. The best time to have the teeth removed is when there is less than or equal to half root development. This can be as young as 15 or as late as 20 years old. The surgery is easier at this point as the tooth separates from the bone easier and there is little to no chance in the lower jaw, injuring the nerve that runs below the roots of the teeth.
Tell us about dental implants and how they have changed Dentistry. Titanium dental implants were developed in the 60’s and the 70’s from research in Sweden. Today, it is considered the gold standard for replacing a missing tooth or teeth. The success rates are in excess of 98%. I am currently using a 3D computer-guided navigation system for placement of the implants called X-Guide. We were recently named a center of excellence in the use of this equipment. This results in precise placement, but gives the surgeon control over the best position.
There is a lot of advertisement about Teeth in a Day or full arch rehabilitation, what is that?
Teeth in a Day or full arch rehabilitation refers to a process whereby implants are placed and at the same time or same day that they are placed, a prosthetic bridge is attached to them. This allows immediate function and restoration of the smile for the patient without having to undergo a prolonged treatment
plan that can sometimes occur with placement of implants.
What do you love about Stroll? It’s nice to see a publication that celebrates the past as well as the present.
John M. Sisto, DDS
350 S. Northwest Hwy, Suite 118 Park Ridge 847.696.4848 www.omsparkridge.com
EDITOR’S NOTE:
Thank you Dr. Sisto for being a community builder and strong supporter of the community magazine.
John M. Sisto, DDS
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!
Gardener’s Spritz
The perfect pour for summer nights
BY RESIDENT LYNDSAY GRAY
“It really is the perfect refreshing sip. Spritz is ‘nearly’ an everybody cocktail. It is classically an apertif, which is what makes it approachable to all. Nothing too heavy or liquor forward, just something refreshing to enjoy with company! So many fun/easy adaptations to make you feel like a mixologist.”
BY LYNDSAY GRAY
A mashup of the Hugo Spritz and French 75, the Gardener’s Spritz combines the best of both worlds.
INGREDIENTS
• 1½ OZ Empress 1908 Elderflower Rose Gin
• ½ OZ Elderflower Liquer
• ½ OZ Lemon Juice
• 6 mint leaves
• Prosecco
• Soda Water
INSTRUCTIONS:
Shake ingredients except for prosecco and soda water on ice and strain into a wine goblet filled with ice. Top with prosecco and a splash of soda water and garnish with more mint leaves.
The Well Resource Center
Empowering first responders
BY AUDRA BLAIR, COO OF THE WELL RESOURCE CENTER
THE WELL RESOURCE CENTER was started in 2012 by Matt Blair - a Park Ridge resident. Our desire is to create a mental health organization that is a destination, a place where first responder families can be in community together to care for and invite each other towards a healthier lifestyle. Seeing The Well grow into what it has become is truly a testament to following God’s call for us in stepping into the darkness so His light can be seen.
On August 7th, 2021, A Chicago Police Officer Ella French was tragically murdered while conducting a traffic stop. Police Officer Tony Rodriguez was one of the first officers on scene after Ella was shot. Tony tried to save Ella’s life. This traumatic event led Tony to speak with one of our counselors at The Well. Tony continues to find healing through the same resources and has become one of The Wells’ biggest advocates.
We have been a Non-Profit 501c3 organization for 8 years. We learned that the Chicago Police Department has a 60% higher suicide rate than any law enforcement agency in the country. More police officers die by suicide than in the line of duty. Our organization started from us lamenting over these types of losses for people who do so much for our cities and communities.
We believe that in order for our communities to be healthy and thriving, we need first responders and their families to be healthy and cared for. As The Well grows, our reach and the number of people we care for has extended to our neighboring suburban townships. We have started partnering with the Park Ridge Police Department over the last two years through several of their events.
Please join us November 6th, 2025 for our annual gala that will be at Joe’s Live in Rosemont. Contact audra@thewellrc.org or visit our website for more information.
CEO Matt Blair - matt@thewellrc.org
COO Audra Blair - audra@thewellrc.org
Website - www.thewellrc.org
Instagram - thewellresource
CEO Matt Blair and COO Audra Blair of The Well Resource Center.
Brendan Beidler
School you attend and grade you’re in? I am going into the 6th grade at Emerson School. What sport do you play? Wrestling and I have been wrestling for 6 years. What inspired you to get started with your chosen sport? My dad. What do you enjoy most when playing your favorite sport? Getting your hand raised. What is your proudest moment? Making it to the IKWF State finals and placing 2nd. Also placing 2nd in a National tournament, getting an “All American” Card. I thank my coach Tony Marti and my Dad. Who is someone you admire? Coach Tony Marti. Coach Tony was a state champion and wrestled at University of Iowa. He also coached 11 High School State championship teams and over 50 state champions. He has been my coach the last 4 years. What advice do you have for others looking to get into wrestling? Don’t quit! Beyond sports, what do you like to do? Playing Fortnite, fishing and water tubing in Lake Geneva. If you were to continue wrestling, what do you hope to become or accomplish someday? Be a state champion and wrestle for the University of Iowa.
Pazzi di Pizza
BY RESIDENT THERESA STRAUB
Pazzi di Pizza is a cozy, family-owned restaurant that brings the warmth and flavor of Italy right to our neighborhood. Owned and managed by Marco Lappo, this beloved spot has been delighting locals with homemade Italian classics and warm hospitality for six years. From the moment you walk in, the ambiance transports you to a charming trattoria in Italy. The beautifully decorated interior and friendly staff set the tone for what becomes a truly memorable dining experience.
We began our evening with two standout appetizers: Calamari Dorati – Lightly breaded and perfectly fried. Then the Involtini di Melanzana – Rolled eggplant slices stuffed with fresh ricotta, topped with marinara, served with crostini. Absolute perfection.
Next came the Insalata Toscana, tossed in their house vinaigrette along with their woodfired pizzas: The classic Margherita and the Prosciutto e Arugula, both made with fior di latte mozzarella, spoke of freshness and authenticity.
Then came one of their signature dishes - Rigatoni Vodka. This pasta, served in a rich tomato cream sauce and topped with cacio ricotta cheese, was nothing short of outstanding. Their Sausage and Peppers went great on the side. Other favorites on the menu include Baked Clams and Skirt Steak Tagliata, both equally worth a try.
Finally, we were served their homemade Tiramisu which was the perfect sweet finish to an unforgettable meal.
Throughout the evening, owner Marco made his way to each table, offering a warm welcome and genuine hospitality. Our guests couldn’t stop raving: Marco was very welcoming and personable. He’s always friendly and makes a point to visit all the tables.
If you’re craving authentic Italian cuisine with heart, soul, and flavor, Pazzi di Pizza is your go-to spot. Outstanding food, exceptional service, and a family feel that makes every visit special—it truly doesn’t get better than this.
Would you like to be at the table at our next Restaurant Review? Email strollparkridgeevents@gmail.com to reserve your spot!
– LYNN AND MICHAEL HARCZAK
“The Rigatoni Vodka pasta is al’dente with a slight bite and the vodka sauce is smooth and creamy.”
- TAMRA HARRINGTON
“We enjoyed the food immensely! Our favorite dish was the eggplant rolls (Involtini di Melanzana). It was just like our own mothers’ homemade meals.”
Involtini Di Melenzana.
Great service with a smile from Maya.
Owner and manager, Marco Lappo.
Prosciutto e arugula.
Pazzi di Pizza in Park Ridge.
Local residents having a great time at Pazzi di Pizza! Pictured L to R: Joe Straub, Jerry Wisniewski, Lynn Harczak, Michael Harczak, Steve Vrablik, Mary Anne Vrablik, Tamra Harrington, Tony Harrington, and Theresa Straub..
Their video together has over 4 million views and counting!
Leni & Nella
The
viral Park Ridge cats!
BY RESIDENTS LENI AND NELLA (CRYSTAL) PARENTI
We are Leni and Nella! While we technically aren’t sisters from the same litter, we were born the same week and adopted by our family a month apart from the same shelter.
Family members: Joe, Crystal, Liliana and Leo. Age: Just turned one. Street they live on: Wisner.
Are they angels or troublemakers? Both of the girls are super spoiled and loved by our entire family! We like to use the term “Velcro cats” because they are both always right by our sides from the second we walk in the door. Leni has a bit of a naughty side and loves to play in the sink and shower and steal Liliana’s hair ties. Nella is quite the eater and will loudly meow until her bowl is filled up with crunchy treats.
How did they meet their human family? We adopted Leni first and we still had a very old cat at home. Leni had to be in a room by herself for two while our old cat acclimated to her. She did not like this and spent most of her days trying to break out of there!! We were obsessed since day one and would spend hours in there with her! Very shortly after her arrival, our elderly cat passed away and we immediately knew we needed a forever friend for Leni. We found Nella and they became best buddies! We didn’t even need to keep them apart. Nella was a bit shy warning up to being held by humans but had turned into the sweetest cat.
Is there anything other neighbors or pets would know them? Leni and Leo recently went viral on TikTok! Their video together has over 4 million views and counting! Both of the cats are frequently featured on my social media sites as well.
Have they ever gotten into trouble? The day we put up the Christmas tree I was convinced we’d need to immediately take it back down! They both climbed up to the very top and refused to get down!
What are their pet peeves? They both hate when we have to close the windows!
Dean Haggerty
BY RESIDENT & JUNIOR WRITER HARRIET HART
How old are you? 2 years old Who is in your family? Mom (Basia), Dad (Kevin) & Brother (Beau)
What’s your favorite activity to do in Park Ridge during the summertime? Go to Centennial Pool and going to all the parks. What do you love most about living here? All the fun parks! What’s your favorite treat from an ice cream shop? Mint chocolate chip from Triple Scoop’d. What’s your favorite snack? Gummy bunnies. What is your favorite thing about your parents? Daddy goes on the “choo choo” and Mommy takes me to the pool. What do you want to be when you grow up? Firefighter. What’s the best hidden gem in Park Ridge that more people should know about? Wild Ones class at Wildwood Nature Center and a nature walk at “The green park” Maine Park. What is your favorite book for Mommy or Daddy to read to you? Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney. Do you like milk or juice better? Juice. Do you like cars or trucks better? Cars. What’s one way kids can make Park Ridge an even better place to live? Play with everyone. If you could organize a special event just for kids in town, what would it be? Choo choo train day! What’s your favorite sport to play or watch?
Dial T for teenagers LIFE IN THE DAD LANE
BY RESIDENT SCOTT CASTELLANOS
ONE OF THE POPULAR STREAMERS has recently added several Alfred Hitchcock movies to their catalogue. My wife, ever the optimist, thought this would be a great opportunity for a famil movie night. What better way to bring the family together than a classic movie and some suspense?
Gathering the Castellanos crew for a movie night is not as easy as it would seem, especially in the summer. I have noticed, though, that our summer is playing out in a very Hitchcockian manner.
Warning, spoiler alerts ahead! The temps, being as high as they are, have my wife and I feeling a bit like Jimmy Stewart and Grace Kelly in “Rear Window”. Like him, we have been stuck indoors during the sweltering heat and watching the comings and goings of those around us, in this case, our teenagers. We too have our suspicions as they go out and return at odd hours. The differences here is that my leg isn’t broken, and Carla is not blonde. I am just lazy, and we prefer the AC. Also, I wouldn’t need to worry about my kids digging in the garden, they avoid yardwork at all costs.
On second thought, given the response my kids have to any of our requests is like we are crazy. I can see some similarities with the masterpiece “Psycho”. In both cases, they make the parent out as the problem, only to find out it was the son that was nuts all along. Mostly it feels more like the 1963 classic “The Birds”. At times, it feels like my kids do anything they can to avoid us, like Tippi Hedren and Rod Taylor doing all they can to elude the seagulls that have taken over Bodega Bay. All in all, it’s not nearly as bad as all that and is probably more in line with one of my favorite Hitchcock films, the dark comedy, “The Trouble with Harry”. By this I mean, it’s usually a bunch of assumptions and miscommunications gone awry with a ton of laughs along the way. In the words of the master himself- “Good Evening”.
Maine East Maine South Class of ‘65 Reunion
THE CLASS OF 1965 was the first graduating class of Maine South. On June 21st, Maine East & Maine South celebrated their 60th Class Reunion. Over 150 classmates were in attendance.
In 1995 the 30th year reunion was held in Washington D.C. and First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton (Maine South Class of ‘65) invited the attendees to enjoy the city and held a private tour of the White House. Another notable student from the Class of ‘65, Steve Goodman, who is known for his many songs that highlighted his love of Chicago and the Cubs - “Go Cubs Go!”
This group of students were in the throes of history; from learning about the Cuban Missile Crisis, to being told that President Kennedy had been shot and killed and the fears of Vietnam. This group of students “lived history.”
DID YOU KNOW?
BY RESIDENT JOAN MATTINGLY
the opposite wall, there are
Daughters of the American Revolution, the DAR presented the City of Park Ridge a bronze American Eagle, cast from the model of the eagle that Eugene Romeo designed for the American Military Cemetery in Belgium. The eagle is located on the Library’s 2nd floor.
Romeo-created Medallions of three of America’s authors can also be found on the second floor of the Library.
DID YOU KNOW… Eugene Romeo, the Italian-born son of a sculptor and stonecutter, who emigrated to America with his parents and siblings when he was 5 years old, settled in Park Ridge in 1943 and became a nationally known sculptor with his own studio and team of apprentices?
Several of Eugene Romeo’s bas relief sculptures were included in the new Community Church building built in the 1950s. In the Crego Chapel, the altar wall features a sculpture of Jesus with his arms outstretched and the words, MY PEACE I GIVE UNTO YOU.
First living in Brooklyn, Romeo studied at the Cooper Union and the Art Students League in NYC. He then was an apprentice of French sculptor, Eugene Rochette. In WWI, Romeo joined the US Navy and became a deep-sea diver until the Armistice.
Arriving in Chicago in the early 1920s, Romeo worked at McNulty Bros, a large plastering firm. For many years, he completed ornamental and sculptural work on McNulty projects. In 1943, Romeo and his wife Jane moved to Park Ridge where he opened his own studio. He expanded the garage on his property to accommodate the team of artists who worked with him. He designed plaques and panels that were placed at building entrances and other building adornments. His work, in marble, bronze and plaster can be found across the country. One of his sculptures, a 6-foot eagle, overlooks the HenriChappelle American cemetery in Liege, Belgium.
A frequent presenter for the Park Ridge Art League, Romeo died while making a presentation for the members in May of 1960. His home and studio at 1110 S Courtland were eventually torn down to make way for a parking lot at the NE corner of Courtland and Talcott.
In the Chicago area, his work can be found at the Shedd Aquarium, Palmer House, Conrad Hilton, Board of Trade, Opera House, Stevens Hotel and the Merchandise Mart and Joliet’s Rialto Theater. Romeo created a plaster bust of Chicago’s Cardinal Stritch which was sent to Italy for carving in white Carrera marble and delivered to Holy Name Cathedral and a Madonna found a Queen of All Saints Basilica in Chicago.
In Park Ridge, his work can be found at the Park Ridge Library and Community Church. Eugene Romeo is another of Park Ridge’s treasures to be remembered.
On
two bas relief sculptures, one is of Jesus healing a blind man and the text THO I WAS BLIND NOW I SEE.
SUMMER NIGHTS STROLL
BY RESIDENT PAUL HANSEN
August brings the summer to an end
We reflect on where we have been
Wonderful concerts in hodges park
With the kids running, riding and laughing in the dark
Magical musical memories filling the air
Delighting the thousand gathered there
Classical, show tunes, and even rock
The music slowing down the hands on the summer clock
First friday car shows filling the library parking lot
Tables filled along every patio on restaurant row
Walking by you stop to say hi to folks you know
Cool breezes make the summer nights a delight
Leaving everyone feeling just right
So enjoy all of these august nights
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