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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.
When I was a little girl, one of my favorite holiday traditions was our annual trip to Sears department store to visit Santa. I’d wait in line, holding tightly to my dad’s hand, rehearsing exactly what I was going to ask for that Christmas. But the best part of that outing wasn’t just seeing Santa—it was the time spent with my dad and the special stop we always made at the candy counter afterward. Warm cashews and swedish fish—it didn’t get much better than that.
Those moments, simple and full of love, are some of what inspired me to create the Park Ridge Christmas Stroll —a chance for families to slow down, and make their own holiday memories.
This year, we’re thrilled to bring you the 2nd Annual Park Ridge Christmas Stroll on Saturday, December 13th, and to add a brand-new morning event to kick off the day—the Park Ridge Santa Stroll 5K, Stroll Mile & Jingle Jog! These family-friendly events are designed to bring joy to all ages during the holiday season and help support our local not for profits.
Registration is required for the Santa Stroll, and proceeds will benefit The Harbour, which supports local youth in need. We’re also collecting freewill donations throughout the day at the Christmas Stroll in Uptown Park Ridge. for the Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge, which provides mental health kits to area schools. Every dollar goes right back into our community—for the good of our children.
During the Christmas Stroll, enjoy the sights, sounds, and spirit of the season—dozens of Park Ridge children will be performing, and don’t forget to visit the Santa House to see the jolly ol’ elf himself! Don’t miss a stop by Hodges Park for snowball fights with
Buddy the Elf! Last but not least, many thanks to the Brian Krause and Charlie Melidosian families for their support and dedication to the Christmas Stroll and the children of Park Ridge!
As you shop for gifts and make your holiday plans, I hope you’ll shop local and show some love to the sponsors of Stroll Park Ridge —the very businesses who make this community magazine possible each month. Their support allows us to deliver Stroll to your mailbox for free—what a gift indeed!
Check out all the fun and full event details at www.strollparkridge.com.
From my family to yours, I wish you a holiday filled with laughter, light, and moments you’ll cherish forever. I’ll see you at the Stroll on December 13th!
MERRY CHRISTMAS Park Ridge & enjoy the STROLL!!
Publisher, Stroll Park Ridge
Scan the QR code to sign up to receive a digital copy of STROLL Park Ridge, nominate a neighbor, athlete or pet to be featured in an upcoming issue!
Photo credit: Crystal Parenti Photography
Energy “Snow” BallsSnowman Version
BY RESIDENTS ALEXANDRA SZAJOWSKI & NAHLA PARKER
THIS RECIPE IS SPECIAL to us because at this most joyful & sometimes stressful time of year, we continue to focus on what matters most: health as true wealth! We love these playful Energy “Snow” Balls because they give us a healthy boost of energy to shop, see family & friends, & feel our best while doing lots of fun Holiday activities!
INGREDIENTS
• 1 cup raw cashews
• 1 cup chopped dates
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened if preferred)
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (plus more for decorating)
• 2-4 Tablespoons honey OR Maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• Generous pinch of sea salt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (for rolling; finely grind in blender before use!)
• Shredded carrot (for noses)
• Slivered almonds (for arms)
• Raspberries (for hats)
• Toothpicks or nut butter (to hold balls together, if needed)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Blend the Base
• In a food processor OR blender, pulse the cashews until they form a coarse meal.
• Add the dates & cranberries, & process until the mixture starts to come together into a sticky dough
• Add the honey OR Maple syrup, vanilla extract, & sea salt (if using), then pulse again.
• Pulse in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
2. Form the Balls
• Scoop out about 1 Tablespoon of mixture for each ball. Make various size balls for snowmen.
• Roll between your hands to form smooth balls. If the mixture is sticky, lightly wet your hands with water.
• Roll each ball in shredded coconut to coat. This gives the “snowy” look.
3. Chill
• Place the coconut-coated balls in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Build Your Snowmen!
• Stack 2-3 balls on top of each other (smallest on top), using a toothpick OR a dab of nut butter to hold them together, if needed.
DECORATE
Press mini chocolate chips in for eyes, buttons, & mouth. Add a thin carrot shred for the nose. Insert thin slivered almonds for the arms. Add a raspberry for a cute, winter hat!
SAY HELLO TO THE
KRAUSE FAMILY!
BY RESIDENTS BRIAN AND MICHELLE KRAUSE
WE’RE THE KRAUSE FAMILY: BRIAN, MICHELLE, JASON (17), ABBEY (15), NORA (9), AND OUR DOG PUMPKIN. WE’VE LIVED IN PARK RIDGE SINCE 2012 AND LOVE BEING PART OF THIS COMMUNITY.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN THE COMMUNITY? We started our family in Des Plaines in 2006 when we married and eventually found our way to Park Ridge—not by chance. Michelle grew up in Chicago’s Oriole Park neighborhood and worked at the South Park Walgreens through high school and college. Brian grew up in Bartlett but was born at Lutheran General and has family roots in Park Ridge and Niles. With those ties, beautiful neighborhoods, great schools, and a strong sense of community, Park Ridge was the perfect place to raise our family. We’ve lived here 13 years and look forward to many more.
HOW DID YOU MEET? We first met through mutual friends— though depending on who you ask, the story varies! It could’ve been a quick meeting at Moretti’s in Edison Park or a house party in Des Plaines where Michelle noticed Brian’s Three Stooges tattoo. Either way, it worked out!
WHAT’S YOUR PROFESSION? Brian is VP of Channels at CyberArk. Michelle manages the home front full-time while volunteering at Washington Elementary School. We both volunteer with Scouting America and the Park Ridge Historical Society—both of which could be full-time jobs in themselves!
TELL US ABOUT YOUR KIDS. Jason is a junior at Maine South, active in clubs and AP classes, and often studies at the Park Ridge Library. He loves pickleball and works weekends at The Original Pancake House—a family favorite. Abbey, a Maine South freshman, enjoys Fashion I, diving, horseback riding in Streamwood, and hanging out with friends. Nora, in fourth grade at Washington Elementary, loves school, piano lessons at Allegro, and tap and jazz at Lynette’s School of Dance. She’s also in Girl Scouts, where Mom is assistant leader. Our whole family is active in Scouting America—Troop 50, Pack 50 at St. Andrew’s, and Troop 105G at Messiah Lutheran. Abbey and
Jason are both Life Scouts, each aiming for Eagle, while Nora is a Webelos learning valuable life skills. Brian and Michelle hold leadership positions, and camping is a favorite family pastime.
CAN YOU HIGHLIGHT ANY UNIQUE TALENTS THAT EACH FAMILY MEMBER BRINGS TO THE MIX? Michelle loves to cook and is artistic and creative. Brian is hands-on and recently learned welding and maple syrup making. Jason is a strong leader with compassion, Abbey channels her creativity into projects and fashion, and Nora brings imagination to life— often transforming cardboard into masterpieces!
HOW DO YOU CELEBRATE HOLIDAYS OR SPECIAL OCCASIONS AS A FAMILY? We love spending holidays with family and friends. The Fourth of July fireworks at Maine East are a favorite, and Earth Day holds extra meaning—it’s Nora’s birthday! Thanksgiving week is especially busy with Abbey, Jason, and Michelle’s birthdays all within eight days. It gives us a lot to be thankful for.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE PLACES TO VISIT AROUND THE COMMUNITY? Holt’s (pizza Tuesdays), Dairy Queen, Trader Joe’s, Raffia, Brunch Café, The Original Pancake House, Centennial Pool, the Park Ridge History Center, and the Pickwick Theatre.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE STROLL PARK RIDGE EVENT? The Park Ridge Christmas Stroll—especially the visit from Buddy the Elf!
DESCRIBE YOUR FAVORITE FAMILY MEMORY IN PARK RIDGE? Putting up Christmas arches on our block in 2020 to spread cheer during the pandemic. It’s become a magical neighborhood tradition we look forward to every year.
Brian stars as Buddy the Elf in the annual Park Ridge Christmas STROLL. Everybody loves Brian...Buddy!
Hello Little Stroller!
COCO THE AUSSIEDOODLE
BY RESIDENT ANDREA SIERGEY
How long has your family lived in the community? We have lived in Park Ridge for 8 years and we love the sense of community and active involvement of the families!
When and how did your pet come to join your family? We picked her and her brother Nitro up from a breeder in Springfield.
Is there a story behind your pet’s name? We named her Coco after coconuts because of the coloring of her hair and her Coco crazy personality!
What’s the one trait or behavior that makes your pet stand out from the rest? She has unlimited energy and is extremely attentive and in tune with emotions.
Y r sk y r b t a y!
By customizing face and body treatments to the individual needs of the patient, Uptown Med Spa can refresh and enhance an already beautiful you!
Does your pet have any unique talents or tricks? She is extremely athletic and agile! She could be an agility dog!
Does your pet have any favorite toys or treats? She loves steak bones.
Tell us about your favorite memory with your pet. Watching her jump at the white butterflies in our backyard!
Where does your pet love to hang out in the neighborhood? She likes to drink martinis at Pines! Just kidding, she loves the pup cups from Starbucks and playing in our backyard with her brother Nitro!
Are there any local businesses or parks your pet particularly enjoys visiting? She likes watching our boys play lacrosse and soccer at all the local parks!
If your pet could choose any adventure to go on, what would it be? Running alongside me while I Rollerblade.
What is your pet’s “pet peeve”? Not giving her attention when she wants it!
What do you and your family enjoy about Stroll Community Magazine? We love that Stroll stays very current on what is going on in the community and provides a very knowledgeable non-biased review to promote local businesses. We are also small business owners and appreciate the support within a community!
Share your Precious Pet! Scan QR Code to submit!
“We’re so honored that this year’s Christmas Stroll ornament features our beloved Library building! It’s a cherished landmark in our community, and seeing it captured so beautifully is a joy.”
JOANNA BERTUCCI, DIRECTOR, PARK RIDGE PUBLIC LIBRARY.
Christmas Stroll Collector’s Ornament
Drumroll, please… this year’s ornament is HERE!
The Park Ridge Christmas Stroll returns on Saturday, December 13—always the second Saturday of December— and we’re celebrating with our beloved limited-edition commemorative ornament!
Each year, we feature a different image from the stunning “A Christmas Stroll in Park Ridge” painting created by talented local artist Natalie Whalen.
Last year: the Park Ridge Train Station This year: a cornerstone of our community –the Park Ridge Library
Library Director Joanna Bertucci holds this year’s ornament which features on one side the official Christmas Stroll logo, and the other showcases this year’s Park Ridge landmark in beautiful detail.
Ornaments are just $20 each, and proceeds go to the Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge.
Prints of “A Christmas Stroll in Park Ridge” are also available for purchase for $10.
A very limited number of ornaments will be released this year. Start your collection or add to it—each year features a new piece of Park Ridge history. Great gift ideas for your favorite neighbor or friend! Pick up one at the Christmas Stroll or email us with your request strollparkridge@gmail.com
Park Ridge Library Director Joanna Bertucci with the 2025 Keepsake!
A STROLL DOWN MEMORY LANE
IN 1969, CROWDS GATHERED for the annual Christmas parade that traveled from Hinckley Field to South Park on Thanksgiving weekend. Pictured here, the parade welcomed Santa on a Sleigh and gave local kids a chance to ride on a float near Northwest Highway and Prospect.
JOHN JOHN IS A 4TH GRADER at Roosevelt Elementary who loves travel baseball on the Park Ridge Warriors. You might see John John biking around town or at a baseball game. John John has one younger sister named Nora Grace and they both love Christmas. Lastly John John loves to decorate his Christmas tree and loves to give gifts!
What street do you live on in Park Ridge? Peale.
How old are you? I am 10 years old.
Do you have any siblings? Yes, one younger sister, Nora Grace, she is 5 years old.
Who do you live with? Mom, Dad, Sister (Nora Grace), Aunt Kathy.
What school do you attend and what grade are you in? Roosevelt Elementary & fourth grade.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Park Ridge? Bike around town.
What sports do you participate in and which ones are your favorite? I participate in travel Baseball for the Park Ridge Warriors, travel Basketball on the Jr. Hawks, flag football, golf, and Irish dance. My favorite sport is travel baseball.
100 YEARS
JOHN JOHN RYAN
BY RESIDENT & JUNIOR WRITER HARRIET HART
Do you have a favorite athlete that you admire? Nico Horner the 2nd baseman for the Chicago Cubs!
What do you like the most about the month of December? Christmas!
What is your favorite tradition in December? Hanging ornaments on the Christmas tree!
Do you have a favorite Christmas cookie? Sugar cookies with buttercream frosting!
What does your family eat for Christmas dinner? Cooked carrots, ham, corn, and chicken.
What is something you really want for Christmas this year? A new set of golf clubs.
What is your favorite gift you have received? An Xbox series X from my parents! Thank you mom and dad!
Do you have a favorite holiday movie and favorite holiday song? My favorite movie would have to be Elf. And my favorite song is Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree by Brenda Lee!
Do you like snow in December? Yes!
Do you like a real or fake Christmas tree? Fake, real ones are too messy!
Do you like to give or receive a present? Give, I love to wrap the gifts!
DID YOU KNOW?
BY RESIDENT JOAN MATTINGLY
DID YOU KNOW... that the Art Institute is hosting a major exhibition this winter featuring the life and work of American architect Bruce Goff? One of his house designs is a Park Ridge Landmark! Bruce Goff (1904–1982) was an innovative American architect known for his organic and often flamboyant designs, which diverged dramatically from midcentury modernism. A self-taught architect, Goff pioneered the use of unconventional geometries, sculptural forms, and repurposed materials to create unique, site-specific structures, primarily in the Midwest and South-Central United States.
Before WWII, while living in Chicago, Goff worked for a time with local artist Alfonso Iannelli. He was commissioned by Helen Unseth, an art teacher at Taft High School in Norwood Park, to design her home. One of Goff’s first independent commissions, the Unseth House was constructed in 1940 as a one-story frame home which included a triangular floor plan and a flat roof. Though built on a suburban residential lot, the design is marked by the privacy offered the owner. The Unseth House, located at 808 Park Plaine Avenue, was pronounced a Park Ridge Landmark in 2011.
After Pearl Harbor, Goff joined the Navy and was assigned to a (Seabee) Naval Construction Battalion, designing many military structures and residences. His experiences there led to his interest in relating his designs to the environment and incorporating unusual materials. Goff believed that architecture should be as individual as the people who inhabit it, leading to a body of work with no two projects alike.
Another of his notable designs is the Ruth Ford House in Aurora, IL. Built in 1947, the house is dome-shaped, constructed of Quonset Hut ribs painted orange-red. The walls are built of black coal bricks pierced with lumps of translucent glass or culletts topped with a cedar shingle roof. The current owner, architect Sidney Robinson, will be speaking about Bruce Goff and the upcoming Art Institute exhibit at the Park Ridge Library on December 2nd. Goff died in 1984 and is buried at Graceland Cemetery in Chicago. His archives were donated to the Art Institute of Chicago.
Bruce Goff
Helen Unseth House in Park Ridge, a Goff-designed residence that is a Park Ridge Landmark.
FRESHMAN TINA MAJKA Helped Take Maine South Girl’s Flag Football Team to the IHSA State Championship - And Won!
Way to go Hawks!
BY RESIDENT TINA MAJKA
Name, Age & Street you live on: Tina Majka (full name is Faustina), I am 14 and I live on Ozanam.
What sport do you play? Flag football and I have been playing for a year.
What inspired you to participate in a flag football? It looked like a really cool and fun sport to play so I did the Maine South summer camp and really enjoyed it, so I decided to tryout for the team and now here we are!
What positions do you play? I play middle linebacker and a position I hope to play someday is wide receiver although I love being a middle linebacker.
What do you enjoy most when playing flag football? I enjoy making new memories with teammates and winning.
What is your proudest moment? My proudest moment is winning the state championship. The people who helped me accomplish this are my teammates, coaches, my family and friends.
Who is someone you admire? Someone I admire is my sister Gloria because she always inspires me and gives me motivation. She is always supportive of my choices and gives me someone to look up to as she was also a athlete in high school winning some regional and sectional championships
What advice do you have for others looking to get into flag
A piece of advice I have for others looking to get into flag football is to try everything and every position because although you think you might be really good at your position, you might be even better at a different one and also asking questions when you are confused because that is what is going to help you get better.
Beyond flag football, what do you like to Beyond sports I like to travel to new places. Some other extracurricular activities I do is this Polish Scouting Organization where we have meetings every Saturday and at the end of the year we go on a camping trip for 2 weeks.
If you plan to continue flag football, what is your next goal? I hope to become a athlete others look up to and I would love to play flag football in college.
Are you an athlete or would you like to nominate an athlete? Scan QR
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28
Park Ridge Wilderness Scout & Princesses’ Christmas Tree Sale Parking lot of Centennial Fitness Center, 1515 W Touhy Ave.
Hours are Monday - Friday (4:30-9pm), and Saturday - Sunday (10am-9pm) www.prwilderness.org
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24 Start of Advent
MONDAY, DECEMBER 1SUNDAY, JANUARY 25
Skating in the Park - Rosemont
Chicago Wolves Ice Rink at Parkway Bank Park - 5501 Park Place, Rosemont Winter fun awaits! Bring your skates or rent a pair! www.rosemont.com
MONDAY, DECEMBER 1 -
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12
Santa’s Mailbox
Maine Park Leisure Center, 2701 W Sibley St.
Santa’s Mailbox is at the Maine Park Leisure Center! www.prparks.org
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2
6:30pm - 7:30pm Elf in Training Workshop
Maine Park Leisure Center, 2701 W Sibley St.
Make reindeer food, a holiday ornament, a hand-crafted card and create special elf slime. www.prparks.org
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2
7:00pm - 8:30pm
Middle School Night at the Pool Centennial Fitness Center, 1515 W Touhy Ave.
Middle Schoolers, grab your swimsuit, towel, and friends and head over to the Centennial Fitness Center for a private pool party. www.prparks.org
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2
7:00pm - 8:00pm
Discussion on Bruce Goff
Park Ridge Public Library, 20 South Prospect Ave. Speaker, Sidney Robinson, discussing the designs of Bruce Goff. www.parkridgelibrary.com
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2
5:00pm - 7:00pm
Stroll Super Supper at Sal Pique Sal Pique, 130 N Northwest Hwy. Come enjoy a night out with family and friends! Dine on complimentary delicious dishes from a diverse menu. Cash bar. Free will donation. We will pass the hat for Maine South Parents’ Scholarship Club. www.msparentsscholarshipclub.org
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3
6:00pm - 7:00pm Gingerbread Workshop
South Park Rec Center, 833 W Talcott Rd. Celebrate the holidays by creating a decoration made from sweet treats. www.prparks.org
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6 -
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24
Toys for Tots Collection
Park Ridge Police Department: 200 Vine St.
The Park Ridge Police Department is collecting new, unwrapped toys for the annual Toys for Tots drive. www.parkridge.us
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6
St. Nicholas Day
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6
9:00am -12:30pm
Santa Trail Maine Park Leisure Center, 2701 W Sibley St.
Join in the Santa trail and along the trail children make reindeer food, play games, make crafts, and enjoy other fun surprises. www.prparks.org
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7
National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7
3:00pm - 5:00pm
Maine South High School Holiday Hawkette Spectacular
Maine South High School, 1111 S Dee Rd. Holiday show featuring the Maine South Hawkettes and special performances by The Maine South Drum Line, The Maine South Orchesis and others! www.south.maine207.org/
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10
You’ve Been Grinched! Grinch your family, friends, and neighbors with a surprise at home candy cane hunt. www.prparks.org
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10
7:00pm - 9:00pm Stroll Park Ridge Book Club Refreshments will be served. www.strollparkridge.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11 11:30am - 2:30pm
S.T.A.R. Holiday Party
Park Ridge Country Club, 636 N Prospect Ave. Celebrate the holidays together at the Park Ridge Country Club. www.prparks.org
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13
7:00am -10:00am
PARK RIDGE SANTA StrollInaugural Year!
Stroll Park Ridge will host the Park Ridge Santa Stroll 5K, 1 Mile Stroll & 3-block Jingle Jog. The event is to help raise funds for local not for profit The Harbour. www.strollparkridge.com Pre-registration is required.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13
10:00am - 5:00pm
Community Wide Bake Sale at the Park Ridge Christmas Stroll Park Ridge Community Church, 100 Courtland Ave. www.strollparkridge.com
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13
10:00am - 5:00pm
Christmas Trees of Charity at the Park Ridge Christmas Stroll Park Ridge Community Church, 100 Courtland Ave.
Come check out the dozens of nonprofits charity themed Christmas tree and vote for your favorite! www.strollparkridge.com
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13
10:00am - 5:00pm
Stroll PARK RIDGE 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, 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
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13
10:00am - 5:00pm
Santa Visits at The Santa House Stroll Office, 132 S Prospect Ave.
Come visit the jolly ol’ elf at the 2nd Annual Christmas Stroll! Receive a free professional photo with Santa! First 50 visitors will receive a free commemorative Christmas Stroll ornament. www.strollparkridge.com
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13
10:00am - 5:00pm
Ugly Sweater Competition at the Park Ridge Christmas Stroll Park Ridge Community Church, 100 Courtland Ave Wear your favorite Ugly Christmas sweater and you just might WIN! Check in before Noon to register at the PRCC. www.strollparkridge.com
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13
11:00pm - 4:00pm
Snowball Fights with Elf Hodges Park, 101 Courtland Ave. Snowball fights with the Elf are every half of an hour, stop on by for a snowball fight! www.strollparkridge.com
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14
Start of Hanukkah
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Nutcracker Magical Christmas Ballet Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N. River Road www.rosemont.com
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17
9:00am -10:15am
Stroll Park Ridge Special Festive Holiday Gathering - Community Coffee Park Ridge Country Club, 636 N. Prospect Ave. Join us for our Special Festive Holiday Gathering. We will be having a free raffle with prizes. Open to all in the Park Ridge Community! Sponsored by Sue Hall with @properties. Please rsvp to strollparkridgeevents@gmail.com
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28
Ice Skating at South Park South Park, 833 W Talcott Rd. www.prparks.org
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20
12:15pm - 1:15pm
Swim with Santa Centennial Fitness Center, 1515 W Touhy Ave.
Santa is spending an afternoon at the Fitness Center Pool relaxing before his big day. www.prparks.org
MONDAY, DECEMBER 22FRIDAY, JANUARY 2
School District 207 Winter Break www.maine207.org
MONDAY, DECEMBER 22FRIDAY, JANUARY 2
School District 64 Winter Break www.d64.org
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24 Christmas Eve
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25 Christmas Day
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1 Kwanzaa
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 30
10:30am -12:00pm
New Year’s Eve Around the World Maine Park Leisure Center
Experience the excitement of New Years’ Eve around the world with your family without leaving Park Ridge or staying up late! www.prparks.org
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31
New Year’s Eve Scan
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!
LIKE MOTHER, LIKE DAUGHTER: A Shared Passion for Creating Confident Smiles
Dr. Niki Laskaris welcomes Alexa Laskaris to the practice
BY DR. NIKI LASKARIS
Hello, I am Dr. Niki Laskaris and I quickly fell in love with Park Ridge and its blend of smalltown charm and urban convenience. My husband Angelo and I have been married 36 years and are proud parents of George, 31, who works in real estate property management, and Alexa, 27, a Marquette Dental School graduate who recently joined our dental practice. We’re thrilled to see Alexa carry on our family’s passion for creating great smiles!
What’s the history and mission of your business? Our practice is built on genuine connection and compassionate care. Dentistry allows me to combine skill with empathy, helping people feel comfortable, confident, and cared for.
What types of services does your business offer? Our practice provides a full range of dental treatments including preventative, aesthetic, and restorative dentistry. In addition to these dental procedures we also offer beauty services such as Botox and Juvederm to enhance your appearance.
How does your business connect with and contribute to the local community? We’re proud to give back to the community that supports us. Our practice partners with local schools to offer internships for students interested in the dental field, helping them explore future career paths. We also regularly support local charities, schools, and community programs as part of our commitment to serving and strengthening our community.
Following in my mom’s footsteps feels like coming home — I’m grateful to join our Park Ridge practice, to serve our neighbors, and to be part of a team and community I love.”
ALEXA LASKARIS
Welcome Dr. Alexa Laskaris
Dr. Niki Laskaris
Dr. Niki Laskaris working with Dr. Alexa Laskaris.
What’s your vision for the future of your business? Our vision is to continue growing as a family-centered practice that blends compassionate care with the latest in dental and cosmetic treatments.
Given your professional expertise and experiences, what advice do you have for our residents? My best advice: take care of your smile, and it will take care of you. Preventive care—regular checkups, good habits, and early visits—makes all the difference. A healthy smile boosts confidence and overall health, so find a dental home where you feel truly cared for.
Is there anything else you’d like our readers to know about you? Outside the office, I love to travel and explore new places, foods, and experiences with my family and friends. Those moments help me recharge and remind me how important it is to stay curious, connected, and grateful — values I also bring into my work with patients every day.
What do you enjoy about Stroll Community Magazine? We’ve been part of Stroll since the very beginning and look forward to every issue. It’s a wonderful way to stay connected with our community and celebrate the people and businesses that make it so special.
Dr. Niki Laskaris 832 Busse Highway Park Ridge 847-823-6400 www.nikilaskarisdds.com
“I have been going to Dr Laskaris and team since about 2002. And I hope to continue with Dr Laskaris until one of us leaves this earth, probably me first! I have never felt the joy and warmth from a dentist and entire team as I do with the very special Nikki Laskaris. She’s a fabulous dentist and works on you as if you’re a well loved relative.”
ESTHER F
Alexa’s graduation from Marquette Dental School in Spring 2025 with her mother Dr. Niki Laskaris (Right).
POSITIVELY PARK RIDGE PERSON OF THE MONTH: STEPHANIE BUREK
MY HUSBAND ED AND I made Park Ridge our home in 2019, got engaged in Napa Valley, had a masked COVID wedding in 2020, and welcomed our son Parker in 2021. Ed is calm and collected, while I bring the energy. We balance each other perfectly. Parker (4), is a fun, high-energy boy who loves trains and monster trucks.
Who is your inspiration? My inspiration is the classic Boss Babe — working hard for success, setting goals, looking fabulous, and feeling confident while doing it all. Since becoming a mom, I hope I’ve inspired other women to find the energy to take that first step toward discovering their passion. For
me, a few unexpected career struggles made me ask: what would I do if work wasn’t about money? That question led me to so many fulfilling roles — VP of Membership for the Park Ridge Newcomers, member of the WINGS Purple Tie Ball Committee, licensed realtor, day-of wedding planner, and founder of “Styled by Steph” — all while keeping my day job as VP of Sales at Status Accessories, a men’s accessories company. You can do it all!
Do you have any favorite activities or events you attend? I’m so excited to be part of the Park Ridge Newcomers—we’ve planned so many great events! Recently, we hosted a women’s networking event in Uptown where we connected and shared ways to grow personally and professionally. Earlier this year, we held two successful Kids Sales, a fun Hawaiian-themed garden party, and we’re already planning the 2026 Labor of Love event benefiting WINGS.
What are you looking forward to in the next year? Continuing to build on the momentum that this year has brought by jumping head first into my new adventure of selling real estate. And, taking as many vacations or staycations we can!
As a positively Park Ridge person - what is your advice on how to be a good neighbor? Reach out to others and look for ways to get involved.
What do you enjoy about Stroll magazine? I love the energy Stroll brings to our community by staying up to date with all things local.
Stephanie with Park Ridge Newcomers.
Stephanie and Ed at Wings Purple Tie Ball.
The Gifts of Christmas
BY RESIDENT PAUL HANSEN
Since I was a little boy
I’ve had a favorite toy
It was a train Santa put under the tree
That Christmas of 1953
Every year he brought me more I would dream of what I saw at the hobby store
What did you each get when you were young?
While all those Christmas songs were sung?
Decades pass we have children of our own
Then grands as they have grown
The magic of this special season
Gives us all so many reasons
To thank our God above
For his eternal love
So dream on my friends of happy days
You can still be amazed!
‘Twas the Deadline Before Christmas
BY RESIDENT SCOTT CASTELLANOS
The holiday season is upon us, which means we are counting down the days to the big celebration. I am a sucker for the holidays, and I still get that warm fuzzy feeling. Heck, I can even be heard humming a seasonal tune around town. This year has been a bit different. I am starting to look at the holidays as another deadline I have to meet.
If 2025 had a theme, it would be deadlines. Professionally, it has been a hectic year, driven by numerous projects, changes, and, you guessed it, deadlines. Fun things even have deadlines. RSVPing to a party, setting a fantasy football lineup, or even this article.
I was obviously clueless as to how involved this whole thing was going to be. My memory of going through this was filling out an application, writing an essay, attaching my transcripts, and a check for the application fee. Silly me thought it would be easier now in the digital age, especially with something called the Common App, which allows students to apply to ten colleges at once. Heads up to any unaware parents like me, that still means ten application fees, and not all schools accept it, so you do the math.
The biggest deadline this year has been college applications, which included multiple hard deadlines for essays, creating profiles, signing up on portals, school visits, calls with admissions counselors, and the list goes on.
In the end, I do not know how many applications wound up getting filled out or essays were written, but I did learn that there are multiple deadlines for multiple types of admissions, such as early admissions, regular admissions, and direct admissions. And lastly, I leave you with my admission of how exhausted I am and how appreciative I will be when it is all done. Happy Holidays!
AROUND TOWN
STROLL Park Ridge was a proud sponsor of the The Maine South Parents Scholarship Club’s 2nd Annual Golf Fundraiser.
Maine South Golf Team Students: Alexis Vengazo and Sydney Hollingsworth at Maine South Parents Scholarship Club’s 2nd Annual Golf Fundraiser.
Katie McMahon rockin’ her 80’s! Happy Birthday Katie!
Park Ridge STROLLERS adjust to the time change!
The Maine South Parents Scholarship Club’s 2nd Annual Golf Fundraiser raised over eight $1,000 scholarships! STROLL Park Ridge was a proud sponsor! Be sure to come to the STROLL Super Supper December 2nd --the parent’s club is the beneficiary.
Maine South players line up under the Friday night lights. Center: Gavin Smith
Fantastic year for Main South Hawks varsity football team! 10-2 overall!
Maine South HS Marching Band
Adriana Iniguez (9) showcased her beautiful artwork at an her art exhibit show in her backyard. A true artist!
Congratulations to the Maine South girls flag football team for bringing home the 2025 IHSA State Championship!
Sam Viola of Uproute Travel enjoying his time across the world in Taiwan.
Congrats to Maine South’s senior, Emily Rutherford on completing the Chicago Marathon.
Veterans Day Honor Ceremony at Hodges Park hosted by the American Legion Post 247
All dressed up and ready to STROLL!!! Ready for the Park Ridge Christmas Stroll!
STROLL Park Ridge Community Coffee attendees play Know Your Neighbor, a entertaining and fun game created by Park Ridge resident Sara Horak.
Love is all around us at the STROLL Community Coffees! Resident Iryna Auchynnikava plants one on her hubby!
Lea Lupo (9) performed as Annie at the Prairie Lakes Theater.
George Indelli is enjoying his visit at the Park Ridge Public Library. Reading, exploring, and meeting new friends!
Park Ridge 3rd graders, Mackenzie Hickey, Violet Prandato and Norah OConnor cheering at the Maine South Cheer Pink fundraiser event.
Beautiful vintage plates that were found at an Estate Sale in Park Ridge.
The Twenty-first Star Chapter of the DAR dedicated a tulip tree and plaque honoring the residents of Park Ridge that died while on active duty in WWII.
Golfers (L to R) Stacy Kelly, Vikki Spiteri, Denise Steele, Michelle Charley at the Maine South Parents Scholarship Club’s 2nd Annual Golf Fundraiser.
October Stroll Book Club gathering.
STROLL Park Ridge Community Coffee.
City Suburban Catholic Conference – MSW JV White went undefeated all season and won the Championship game.
