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
APPAREL FOLLKEE (773) 715-8141 www.follkee.com
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
HEAD SPA
mad headspa (847) 696-7135 www.madheadspa.com
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
MORTGAGE LENDER
Select Lending Services Kiki Calumet (312) 909-9372 Kikicalumet.com
OPTOMETRIST
Norwood Park Eye Center (773) 867-6165 www.norwoodparkeyecenter.com
ORAL, FACIAL AND IMPLANT SURGERY
Chicago Oral Surgery & Implant Center (312) 620-1926 www.oralsurgerychi.com
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
PARTY RENTALS
Center for Creative Learning (847) 436-0587
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
Mario DiLorenzo Real Estate Team
Keller Williams ONEChicago (847) 312-0912 mariodilorenzoteam.com
RESTAURANTS
A + Italian Steakhouse (773) 853-2325 www.aplusitaliansteakhouse.com
Firewater Saloon (773) 631-0020 www.firewatersaloonchicago.com
Sal Pique (847) 696-7081 www.sal-pique-parkridge.com
Saltwater Coastal Grill (773) 312-3653 saltwaterrosemont.com
Soup & Scoops (773) 775-1079 www.soupandscoopschicago.com
Thalaiva’s Indian Kitchen (847) 696-7029 www.thalaivasIndiankitchen.com
ROOFING/SIDING
Northwind Exteriors (708) 829-0532 www.northwindexteriors.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
Delivering Neighborhood Connections © 2025 The N2 Company, Inc.
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.
We’re proud to showcase businesses that share our commitment to fostering local connections. When perusing our pages, keep an eye out for the “Local Sponsor” icon to identify articles highlighting these valuable partners. Please note that businesses profiled may have provided free products and / or services for the review.
Get your calendar ready!
MARVELOUS MAY IS HERE! It’s time to enjoy the best of Park Ridge outdoors! Al fresco dining starts soon as well as the Park Ridge Farmers Market! Soon the Summer Concerts in the Park will fill the air around town with sweet melodies and friendly hellos! But first, this month we honor and remember our military heroes. We are thrilled to be a part of the Memorable Day Parade once again this year! On Monday, May 26, bring your four-legged pal to enjoy a stroll through the parade with us as we honor and remember too our fourlegged war heroes.
Kick off Summer right at the 8th annual Stroll Park Ridge Ice Cream Social! June 17th at Dairy Queen. It’s FREE! Stop by DQ for some sweet community fun! Then be sure you don’t miss the Stroll Summer Social on June 19 with music by entertainer Tony Ocean!!! Music, dancing and heavy appetizers will be served. This is a FREE fun event for the community! Be present that night to also witness some of the Best of the
Best being honored with our Reader’s Choice Awards. We are also so excited to honor the Park Ridge Charity of the Year, Teacher of the Year as well as the POSITIVELY PARK RIDGE PERSON OF THE YEAR! We look forward to a fun night in June at Harp & Fiddle. Don’t miss it!
Follow Stroll - your community magazine at Facebook.com/ StrollParkRidge @Stroll Park Ridge. for our fun family events, Supper Club gatherings, community fundraisers for our local not-forprofits and more! You can also check out www.strollparkridge.com for a complete calendar of events happening all around town!
Stroll Park Ridge: Your Stories, Your Photos. Your Community Magazine. This is your publication, Park Ridge. I am so honored to be producing it for and with you.
Happy Spring and remember...
LET’S GET TOGETHER!
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, May 28th, 9:00 am - 10:15 am at Harp & Fiddle, 110 Main Street. We look forward to seeing you all! May 28th and June 25th, 9 - 10:15 AM
Happiness begins with a STROLL in Park Ridge.
2025 Memorial Day Parade
Monday, May 26th 10
AM
Bill Scharringhausen as Grand Marshal for the 2025 Memorial Day Parade
BY RESIDENT JOAN MATTINGLY
THE CITY OF PARK RIDGE and the Mel Tierney American Legion Post 247 are pleased to announce the 2025 Memorial Day Parade Grand Marshal as lifetime resident and longtime community leader Bill Scharringhausen.
Scharringhausen, a now-retired third generation Park Ridge pharmacist, joined his father and grandfather in serving the people of the City of Park Ridge. Over these last 100 years, while the pharmacy business was significant, it was the volunteerism and diehard community spirit displayed by three generations of the family that has truly touched all of Park Ridge. Graduating the University of Wisconsin (Madison) School of Pharmacy in 1956, Scharringhausen was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the US Army National Guard. After his service ended, he returned to Park Ridge and the family pharmacy, working another 43 years until his retirement in 1999.
Scharringhausen has continued to be a leader in Park Ridge through his active involvement with Park Ridge Kiwanis and his church community. Over the years he has received many accolades, both local and national. He was the 2020 winner of the National Community Pharmacists Association’s Dargavel Medal for his leadership, service, and accomplishments as an independent pharmacist. Locally, he has been recognized as a Community Star (2011) for Lifetime Achievement, received the Park Ridge Kiwanis Legion of Honor Award (2021) for 65 years of unwavering dedication and community service, and in 2024 he received Stroll Park Ridge’s “Positively Park Ridge Person of the Year” Award.
Bill Scharringhausen’s unwavering support of everything Park Ridge, his community spirit, and his devotion to giving back, have earned him the special honor of serving as the City’s 2025 Memorial Day Parade Grand Marshal.
American Legion Post 247 - 102nd Annual Park Ridge Memorial Day Parade is on Monday, May 26 at 10:00 AM. The parade steps off from Talcott and Cumberland, passing City Hall and ending with the final ceremony at Hodges Park.
Kevin Blindauer
Almost at the finish line: 50 marathons in 50 states!
BY KEVIN BLINDAUER
Mary, Seat of Wisdom’s, Deacon Kevin Blindauer, is running 50 marathons in 50 states. He just finished #47 and will complete his 50th marathon in December of this year!
What inspired you to start running? I did not pick up running again until my 25th birthday. I knew I needed to get back into shape and quit smoking. I started running and ran the old Norridge Labor Day Classic race. That began a love of running.
What do you enjoy most when running? Running is so much like life for me. Many runs are with friends and even acquaintances. Running buddies sharing their ups and downs. We share our joys and when we’re struggling. Sometimes we just need someone to listen. Running helps me to be patient, understanding, and kind. I also find when alone, a time to pray. There’s a wonderful app that recites audio prayers and the second I step outside to run, I turn on the prayer app. I’m out before sunrise, the sun is rising and my prayers starting, I consider how lucky I am. It’s a perfect time to reflect and have a quiet time to pray while experiencing the beautiful outdoors. I feel a strong connection to God and nature.
What is your proudest moment? I am on a journey to complete a marathon in each state. I have three states left to go! I will finish this December. I am so fortunate to be supported by my wife Gysel and my two children Terry and Elise.
Who is someone you admire? I admire Mother Teresa. Mother Teresa choose to leave her comfortable surroundings, give it up and entirely serve others. She saw the sick and dying outside the convent and started her ministry serving those most in need. Her life was spent supporting others. I try to emulate something she said, “Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God’s kindness: kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile.”
Beyond running, what do you like to do? I was ordained by Cardinal Cupich in 2016 and my role is to bring Christ to the world. I am fortunate to have a second career, as well. I am an assistant public defender in Will County. Aside from working as a lawyer for my clients, I try to bring a blend of my faith, my ability to speak Spanish and hope to my clients. Working as a public defender has been wonderful to experience the justice system from a totally different point of view. As I tell others who ask, I am defending the constitution for everyone, it’s all our rights as expressed in the constitution.
AN ESTIMATED $72.6 TRILLION in U.S. wealth is likely to be transferred Baby Boomers to younger generations by 2045. Recent surveys have made it clear that senior generations are concerned about issues such as how to promote personal achievement and prevent complacency in these rising generations. There is also concern about how to help the family’s wealth last for generations to come. Very few families have a plan to prepare rising generations for this significant wealth transfer, leaving most families vulnerable to potential pitfalls. There is no one-size-fits-all way to prepare a generation for wealth management. Each family will need to do things a
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY TO ALL THE MOM AND MOTHER FIGURES OUT THERE!
Preparing the Next Generation For Family Wealth
bit differently, but each will need a clear, well-thought-out plan. This crucial aspect of family governance can make the difference between wealth that diminishes within a few generations and wealth that leaves a lasting legacy. Here are a few key areas to address when preparing younger generations for family wealth.
1. Have a family and personal mission statement. A family mission statement defines the family’s values, purpose, investment philosophy, philanthropic goals and values. It may even explore the relationship between family wealth and individual achievement and initiative.
We protect your interest with a fierce devotion to solutions that maximize your bottom line. We commit to the highest principles of integrity, excellence, and client services. We grow with you by evolving our service to accommodate your naturally changing conditions.
2. Financial literacy for younger generations. Data shows that one in five family offices reported that they don’t fully share the extent of the family’s wealth with the rising generation. This can make it challenging to help them develop the financial literacy they will need. We recommend teaching children about budgeting, investing, and shepherding personal wealth. If they have trusts, teach them what they are and how they work.
3. Personal achievement and initiative. Many high-net-worth parents worry that their children won’t develop a sense of personal achievement, and that family wealth could lead to complacency. They want to foster fiscal responsibility and sustainable lifestyles. Consider whether the family trust, or even the family business, will provide capital for business startups and/or direct investments.
4. Philanthropic literacy and values. Consider ways to instill philanthropy in children and pass on related values. This may include family volunteer work or giving children funds each year to allocate to charities. As they get older, ask them to make recommendations for future family philanthropy initiatives or to help consider grant proposals.
To start planning, it’s important to work with professionals experienced in this area 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.
WHAT’S COOKIN’ PARK RIDGE?
ROSA’S NEAPOLITAN STYLE PIZZA DOUGH
The recipe I am sharing is for NeapolitanStyle pizza dough. About two years ago, my husband came to me with an idea to do a built-in woodfire pizza oven in our backyard. I was apprehensive since our children are picky eaters and thought no way they would enjoy this style of pizza. Well, I was wrong, they absolutely love this style of pizza! Homemade pizza dough is perfect year round and this recipe is simple and easy for Neapolitan style pizza. I normally double, triple or even quadruple the recipe as this dough freezes very well. Then, I always have dough on hand for that last minute pizza night.
INGREDIENTS
• 2 cups King Arthur ‘00’ Pizza Flour
• 1/8 tsp Dry Instant Yeast
• 1/2 tsp Sugar
• 1 1/4 tsp Salt
BY RESIDENT ROSA BLACK
• 3/4 cup lukewarm water
PREP WORK
• Kitchen stand mixer with dough hook
• Cutting board to roll the dough
• Bowl and kitchen towel
DIRECTIONS
1 / Stir all the ingredients together (I use a stand mixer) until the dough starts to form a ball. Kneed the dough in a small amount of flour an additional minute or two by hand, then reshape into a ball and place in a bowl covered with a damp cloth to rise for 8-12 hours at room temperature.
2 / After first rise, divide the ball in half and shape the halves into balls. If using the dough immediately, let it rise for another 45 minutes before forming your pizza shapes. Otherwise, place the dough balls into a sealable container and refrigerate for 24 hours before use or freeze for future use.
*This recipe requires a counter top version pizza oven or outdoor woodfire oven which use higher temperatures than conventional ovens. Perfect Neapolitan pizza is cooked on a 725 -750 degree stone.
The Theboul Family The Theboul Family
I’M FIONA THEBOUL, a proud mom to my fearless, festival-loving 2.5-year-old daughter, Élodie! I am happily navigating life as a single mom to my amazing daughter! We also have a fluffy, fourlegged family member named Morty, who is a white Persian cat and the chilliest cat you will ever meet!
Street: Austin Ave.
How long have you lived in Park Ridge? A little over two years and I love it!
Is there anything your neighbors might know you for? My neighbors may know my house as “the house with the pink door!”
What are your profession? By day, I’m the SVP of Commercial Strategy at Weber Shandwick. In January, my twin sister and I launched LEDLetterRentals. com, bringing my love for event décor to life! After years living abroad and working in global sporting and entertainment events in Dubai, Hong Kong, and New York, I wanted to create something fun and creative right here in Chicagoland. We provide customizable LED letters, numbers, and symbols to light up life’s memories!
Tell us about Élodie. Élodie is my little adventurer! She attends Children’s Land in Glenview and is always dancing, playing dress-up, and jumping into pools with no fear. We love bedtime dance parties, and she’s already been to toddler raves. I always say she’s my little festival girl.
What do you like to do together? Travel is a huge part of our lives! I’ve been to 50+ countries and I want Élodie to share that same love of exploration. She’s already
been on a 14-hour flight like a champ, and together we’ve traveled to Spain, Indonesia, Taiwan, Arizona, Florida, and Wisconsin. Our next international adventure is already in the works!
Tell us something unique about your family. We’re a multilingual, multicultural family! My father is French (raised in Morocco, France, and Israel), and my mother is Irish, so my twin sister and I grew up speaking French at home. I’m passing that tradition on to Élodie, reading her books in French, speaking with her in French and teaching her little phrases. The funny part? My Polish stepmother also speaks to her in Polish. So she’s picking up words I don’t even understand! For a while, she kept saying “Tak” to me, and I thought she was making up sounds; turns out she was just saying “Yes” in Polish!
Describe your perfect day in Park Ridge as a family. Spending time in our big backyard, followed by a walk uptown for a delicious lunch. Simple, but perfect!
Favorite Park Ridge Restaurant? I’m obsessed with the Chopped Chicken Salad at Pennyville, but you’ll also find me at BluFish and at Mughal’s.
Favorite Park Ridge Park? Prospect Park! It is great for running around with Élodie!
Are you passionate about any charities / philanthropies? Absolutely! I’m a big supporter of the Park Ridge Newcomers Club, and I love giving back however I can; fostering cats, collecting clothes and toys for families in need, supporting sober women’s shelters, and even buying Christmas gifts for foster teens.
RADIANCE BEGINS HERE
Dr.
John M.
Sisto
Diplomate American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
“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.
It Happens Here
BY RESIDENT PAUL HANSEN
Every year when may appears
We’re amazed by what happens here
Park Ridge truly explodes with life
Every day and every night
The proverbial April showers
Bring on spectacular May flowers
Just in time for Mother’s Day
To them all our thanks we say
Then prom is on it’s way
The boys dressed up right
The girls all a delight
Bikers and runners on the trails
With all the fitness it entails
The month ends with Memorial Day
As we line the streets for the parade
Giving thanks for the sacrifices made
School soon will end
Summer fun just around the bend
Life in the Dad Lane
BY RESIDENT SCOTT CASTELLANOS
This year, my wife and I celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. Google states the traditional gift is crystal to signify strength and durability. I like the thought of durability because, to me, it’s essential. My wife and I had 8 years prior to our wedding, and I am hoping to tack on a ton more. Like most couples, we’ve had wins and losses and have taken some dings along the way, but here we are, still in the game, planning for the future, having fun and laughing together. Durable.
Looking back, I listed things that have happened over the years and that made me realize my wife and I have been together for more than half of our lives. Which means we have been together for most of our
lives. In that time, we graduated college, lived in multiple homes, had 2 boys (almost men now), traveled all over the world, accomplished big goals, worked through setbacks and so much more. I felt grateful knowing we built such a meaningful life together. I was also grateful to have a partner in all of this because partners help and their help make things easier, push you, comfort you, share, and make it all special.
Organizing my thoughts this month was difficult and random. I was coming at this from so many angles. I even thought about playing off the joke ‘old married guys’ used to throw around for a cheap chuckle, comparing marriage to a life sentence without parole, but figured that wasn’t
a great idea. I had a lot of photo montages playing in my mind too, but you can’t have a photo montage without a song. So, then I started thinking of songs that would fit a photo montage, which sent me down multiple rabbit holes, and then I realized that our wedding song, Come What May, from the movie Moulin Rouge fit the theme of durability, perfect. Who would’ve thought?
Carla,
Thank you for a wonderful 20 years (plus 8), a beautiful family and an amazing life. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner.
Love, Scott
A STROLL DOWN MEMORY LANE
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PHOTO
Lincoln Junior High School’s
Coco
BY RESIDENTS COCO (HOLLY) SCHNEIDER
HI, MY NAME IS COCO. I love snuggles with my humans, giving doggy kisses and playing fetch. I happily and enthusiastically greet my family when anyone returns home, whether they were gone for 4 minutes or 4 hours.
Family Members: Jeff, Holly, Lena, Ellie and Jack
Is your pet an angel or a bit of a troublemaker or spoiled? Coco is a protective, spoiled angel.
Does your pet have any specific talents or tricks? Our family and one of our children (who rather not be named) has worked a lot with Coco on training. She has an American Kennel Club Community Canine Good Citizen Certification and Advanced Trick Dog Certificates; doing tricks like “sit pretty” and “say your prayers”.
Is there anything other neighbors or pets would know your pet for? Coco is known for being picky and a little shy! She is a very friendly dog to almost all people. She is ok with other poodle breeds, regardless of size but is usually not ok with other bigger (and even some smaller dogs) that she doesn’t know.
How would your pet tell the story of the day they met you and your human family? From what I have been told, Holly told Jeff that she was going to look at dogs. Jeff asked “are you coming home with a dog”? Holly replied “maybe”. Jeff didn’t realize that was code for YES! When the kids got home from their activities, they were very surprised and thrilled to meet me, not believing I was theirs!
Has your pet ever run away? Aside from an occasional escape to our neighbor’s large back yard, no. Coco
wants to stay near her family and likes to stay close to home.
What are her personality traits? Loving and very affectionate with her family.
What is your pet’s favorite Park Ridge park? Rather than a park, she really prefers neighborhood Strolls, especially down Hamlin.
What is her pet peeve? Other dogs walking in front of our house. She’s a people’s dog not a dog’s dog.
Share your Precious Pet! Scan QR Code to submit!
Coco and her #1 fan.
BY EMILIE SCHIMMEL
Hello everyone! We’re Home Comfort Services, your local Heating & Cooling company, and for over 25 years we’ve loved providing you our services, often when you need them most. We know that your home mechanical systems are not something most people spend much time thinking about (very boring )…so we do it for you! We strategically plan all that we do to provide all the best services and products for your ultimate comfort. We experience ALL the weather in Chicago; we want you to be ready.
Where are you from? The founder of Home Comfort grew up in Park Ridge, and then Home Comfort got our business start in Des Plaines. We’ve since operated out of Park Ridge, Niles, and now this past year we moved our business back to Des Plaines for our 25th year “homecoming.” Our current Home Comfort leadership team all lives in the surrounding suburbs, and we truly understand what makes living in the Midwest so special. These are our people.
Tell us what’s unique about your business. Our business focuses on the model of presenting our customers with multiple options for every decision they might need to make for their heating and cooling. We partner with you to provide our clients understanding and education on what is happening, and what could happen, given our expertise and experience in this field. We want our thousands of local customers to feel empowered to wisely choose how to manage their HVAC in their homes and businesses. We never just want a tech to fix something; we want to paint the bigger picture with you, and consider all factors from repair to a replacement investment. We offer completely customizable Comfort Plans. You never pay for maintenance visits you don’t need.
What do you take the most pride in? Our team has a lot of longevity, both within the office and the operational side, to the technicians in the field. We’ve really built long-term relationships with vendors, clients, and each other! Having a career in the trades is one of the most exciting vocational paths out there in 2025. “Home services” is a critical industry, and we remind our people to be proud of the sacrificial work we do, often only when someone is uncomfortable. It can be hard to problem-solve during a crisis, but we all collaborate to find solutions every day. The answer is always “in the room” as we say!
How are you and your business involved with the community? We love supporting local publications like Stroll Park Ridge and BeLocal, as well as the local schools, athletic teams, and finding fundraising initiatives we can support. Whether it’s a 5K with Lemons of Love Cancer Resource Center, the Kiwanis Club, or a local performing arts academy sponsorship, we are here for it!
Given your business expertise and the nature of what you do, what advice can you offer to our readers? There are lots of changes coming to HVAC with a refrigerant change-out that began this year. We’ve spent last year learning, training, and gearing-up to accommodate some new equipment regulations. The Department of Energy has been heavily involved in updating
“Cannot find a better HVAC company than Home Comfort. Very professional, well trained technicians, well stocked and great emergency service. I have recommended them to all of my neighbors with HVAC problems. Nothing but rave reviews. Fast response, well trained technicians.”
BILL K
energy requirements for heating & cooling products, and we can help you figure it all out! Tax incentives, manufacturer rebates, and financing discounts are all out there.
How would one benefit from your services? Join our Comfort Plan Membership! Ensure you are getting your twice-yearly maintenance visits and repair discounts, all bundled into a great once-a-year plan. Keep your equipment warranties valid and current by doing so.
You can also schedule service and maintenance visits online: Homecomfort.net
Our location: 500 E Touhy Ave, Unit H, Des Plaines / (847) 920-6224
Jan Litas and Emilie Schimmel from Home Comfort celebrate a Dealer Excellence Award from American Standard.
Logan Wehrman
BY RESIDENT & JUNIOR WRITER JOSETTE STEINFELS
What is your name? My name is Logan Wehrman and I am 11 years old.
What street do you live on? Western Ave.
How many siblings do you have? Do you have any pets? I have one brother, Ethan, who is a freshman at Maine South. I also have 2 dogs, Coda and Kali.
What is your favorite restaurant in Park Ridge and what is your favorite meal there? My favorite restaurant is Panera and my favorite meal is their Mac & Cheese because it is so tasty.
What school do you go to? I go to Washington Elementary School and I am in fifth grade.
What is your favorite class and why? My favorite class is PE because I like the variety of sports we get to do in it. Also, I think that the other classes are boring to me.
What is your favorite thing to do with your friends? My favorite thing to do with my friends is to bike around Park Ridge. We go to the gas station (Trio, on Delphia & Touhy) or Walgreens (Cumberland & Touhy) to buy a lot of snacks. We then bike back to our houses and play sports in the backyard and then we eat the snacks while hanging out in the garage. Sometimes, my friends and I like to go to the Park Ridge Community Center to play basketball. When we are really hungry, we bike to Panera to get food.
What sports do you do? I play football, basketball, and baseball. I have played football with the Park Ridge flag football league for 3 years, basketball for 6 years (the last 2 with RTG), and baseball for 4 years (the last 2 with the Warriors). I like these sports because I get to be with my friends and have fun with them. I’ve also been a Scout for 5 years with Pack 201.
I know it’s still a few years away, but what sports do you want to do at Maine South? I really want play basketball and football because those are my two main sports. Baseball is my side sport right now.
Logan and his football friends
POSITIVELY PARK RIDGE PERSON OF THE MONTH THERESA STRAUB
This month, we proudly feature Theresa Straub as the Positively Park Ridge Person of the Month! A 19-year resident of Park Ridge, Theresa embodies the spirit of community, positivity, and dedication.
Theresa is a retired teacher who, along with her husband Joe, a retired state worker, has built a life rooted in family and connection. They cherish time with their daughter, Justine, who lives in Niles with their two grandsons, and their son, Joseph, who resides in Edison Park.
For Theresa, inspiration comes from her fellow educators. She credits teachers with inspiring her and hopes she, in turn, has motivated her former students to be their best selves. Through encouragement and support, she strives to ignite a passion for learning and growth.
Theresa believes people are drawn to Park Ridge for its small-town charm, excellent schools, and vibrant community. She cherishes the unique energy that Park Ridge offers, with year-round activities that keep the town buzzing.
Spring holds a special place in Theresa’s heart. It’s the season for gardening and taking leisurely walks through the charming streets of Park Ridge. She and Joe also enjoy all the many year-round Stroll events, the Farmer’s Market, concerts in the park, and the Taste of Park Ridge. When it’s time to dine out, Nonna Silvia’s is always a family favorite.
WRITTEN BY STROLL PARK RIDGE STAFF WRITER
Theresa loves sharing her delicious recipes.
At the STROLL St. Paddy’s Day Bash: A benefit for Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge.
Theresa with husband Joe, son Joe Jr., daughter Justine and grandkids Alden and Leo.
Theresa stays deeply engaged in the community. She’s a facilitator for Rainbows for All Children, a contributor to Stroll magazine, and an active participant of its’ many events. Additionally, she holds honorary membership in the Garden Club and is a proud member of P.E.O Chapter HL.
Looking ahead, Theresa is excited to continue her restaurant reviews, enjoy alfresco dining, travel, and immerse herself in all the wonderful events Park Ridge has to offer.
Her advice for being a good neighbor? “Always greet with a smile, be supportive, and lend a helping hand.”For Theresa, staying positive isn’t just important—it’s transformative. It fuels health, purpose, and optimism, making her a true beacon in the Park Ridge community.
“Theresa Straub truly exemplifies what it means to be Positively Park Ridge! Her tireless dedication, from mentoring children to writing heartfelt restaurant reviews and volunteering at countless community events -- always with a smile---fills our town with warmth and inspiration. Theresa doesn’t just participate—she radiates kindness, optimism, and a true love for Park Ridge and all residents. She’s the glue that keeps our community vibrant and the spark that makes it shine. We’re so lucky to have her lighting up our Stroll pages and our lives!”
STROLL PARK RIDGE PUBLISHER DOLLY MCCARTHY
Joe & Theresa danced the night away at the STROLL Summer Social last year. We expect they will be back on the dance floor at this year’s SOCIAL on June 19th!
Attending the WINGS gala with husband Joe Straub.
Theresa is always willing to lend a helping hand. Here she volunteers at National Night Out.
SAL PIQUE
BY RESIDENT THERESA STRAUB
Authentic flavors, festive atmosphere! Perfect for Cinco De Mayo!
In March, we stepped into the warm and welcoming uptown Mexican restaurant, Sal Pique. We were greeted by the owners, Zinnia Iglesias and her husband Roberto Flores. We were immediately made to feel at home right away. They are very proud of the fact that they use fresh ingredients in their kitchen daily. The eight of us in our party couldn’t wait to get started on their very diverse menu!
Before the food came, we ordered some drinks. Their Margaritas are outstanding! One diner commented that they were some of the best Margarita’s that they had ever had! Note: Sal Pique has $7 Margaritas during their Happy Hour, M-Th, from 4-6:00pm.
For starters, they brought out some of their amazing appetizers. First, there was the Picaditas, one of each of chicken, steak and chorizo served with beans and a mini sope. Next, was the Chicken Flautas that were served with queso fresco, sour cream, mixed greens and tomatoes on a bed of salsa verde. Next, their tasty Chicken Fajitas were served. Grilled chicken breast, sautéed bell peppers, and red onions, were served with warm tortillas on the side. Everyone in our party really enjoyed this dish.
We were then honored to be served their signature dish, the Sal Pique Steak. This entrée consisted of marinated skirt steak, frijoles borrachos, panela cheese, and mixed salad, and was also served with tortillas. Finally, Camarones a La Chipotle was presented, and we couldn’t get enough of it! Both dishes were delicious and savory! For the desserts we were served mouthwatering Churros filled with chocolate, Tres Leches, and Fried Plantains. Be sure to stop by and try the best Mexican food in town! And, if you’d like to be entertained, go and listen to their Mariachi band every other Friday.
SAL PIQUE
130 N. Northwest Hwy. (847)-696-7237
Catering | Children’s Menu | Brunch Saturday & Sunday: 12-3:00 pm
Hours: M-Th: 4-9:00 PM, F 4-10:00 PM, Sat 129:00PM, Sun 12-9:00PM
Would
“We loved the creamy chipotle shrimp dish! The shrimp were cooked perfectly and the rice was the perfect side to soak up the delicious sauce.”
MOIRA CAHILL
“The chicken fajitas came out in sizzling perfection. The chicken had a great, flavorful seasoning and the peppers and onions were done just right - perfect complements to one another in the dish.”
MAGGIE MURZANSKI
Camarones a La Chipotle
The best Margaritas ever!
Sopes De Carne Asada (New item on the menu)
Signature Dish: Sal Pique Steak
WE FOUND THE END OF THE RAINBOW!
STROLL
ANNUAL
ST. PADDY’S DAY BASH RAISES A POT OF GOLD FOR KIWANIS
THANK YOU PARK RIDGE for opening up your hearts and wallets to support Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge at the 7th Annual Stroll St. Paddy’s Day Bash! Thank you Harp & Fiddle for providing delicious corned beef and cabbage to all the generous donors. Special thanks to the amazing talents and performances of Trinity Irish Dancers and the Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band. Together we raised over $2500 for Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge! So Park Ridge Proud!
Irish soda bread for all! STROLL Publisher Dolly McCarthy baked up her award winning recipe with some help from Harp & Fiddle owner Declan Stapleton.
Joan Mattingly
Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band
Chris and Diane Morris
Trinity Irish Dancers
Paul Hansen
Joe and Theresa Straub
Tyler Norman of Plumbtree Builders
Dolly McCarthy and Declan Stapleton
Northwest Side
Irish Parade Queen Caitlin Crawford
COMMUNITY EVENTS
MAY 1ST - OCTOBER 31ST
Park Ridge Restaurants
Expanded Outdoor Dining
Expanded outdoor dining is now open. Contact each restaurant for more information on dining al fresco.
SATURDAY, MAY 3 - SUNDAY, MAY 4
Park Ridge Library Spring Book Sale
Park Ridge Library
For hours and more information please visit parkridgelibrary.org
TUESDAY, MAY 6
6:30pm - 7:30pm
Park Ridge Police Memorial Ceremony -
In Honor of National Police Week
Front steps of City Hall (Rain out locationSt. Andrews Lutheran Church)
The Park Ridge Police Chaplains’ Association would like to honor all of our local law enforcement heroes. All are welcome to the ceremony. https://www.parkridge.us/
SATURDAY, MAY 10
Park Ridge Baseball and Softball Opening Day
Opening Day Festivities and first games for ALL leagues. prbaseball.com
SUNDAY, MAY 11
Mother’s Day
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Stroll Park Ridge Book Club
Please join our Facebook Group “STROLL Park Ridge Book Club” or email us at Strollparkridge@gmail.com for more information
SATURDAY, MAY 17
9:00am - 1:00pm
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
SATURDAY, MAY 24 - SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25
7:00am - 1:00pm
Park Ridge Farmer’s Market 15 Prairie Ave (between Maine and Garden)
Every Saturday starting Memorial Day weekend through the end of October. Find a great selection of fruits,
vegetables, and other local products. Save Stroll Park Ridge will be there on June 14th. business tent and say hi! parkridge.us
MONDAY, MAY 26
Memorial Day
MONDAY, MAY 26
10:00am -11:30am
American Legion Post 247 presents the 102nd Annual Park Ridge Memorial Day Parade
The parade steps off from Talcott and passing City Hall and ending with the final at Hodges Park, approximately at 11:20 us with your precious pets to honor our 2 -legged heroes.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 28
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
FRIDAY, MAY 29
Last Day of High School District 207
FRIDAY, MAY 29
Last Day of School District 64
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 Scouts. RSVP to strollparkridge@gmail.com
THURSDAY, JUNE 19
6:00pm - 9:00pm
SAVE THE DATE! STROLL Summer Social and Best of Park Ridge 2025 Readers Choice Award Celebration! Studio 108 @ Harp & Fiddle. Enjoy delicious food buffet, DJ beats, special live performance by Tony Ocean, awards, and cash bar. Don’t miss the party of the summer! Strollparkridge.com
DID YOU KNOW?
BY RESIDENT JOAN MATTINGLY
DID YOU KNOW… that a local architect who lived and maintained offices in Park Ridge is responsible for a number of projects in our community?
William Franklin McCaughey, who was born in Lynchburg, VA and graduated from what is now known as Carnegie Mellon University, eventually made his way to the Chicago area and Park Ridge. He lived at 515 Vine Street (1921), 134 Clinton Street (1927), 304 Center Street (now Touhy Avenue, 1939) and 118 N Prospect.
Among the many local projects completed over his nearly 40-year career, many in partnership with R. Harold Zook, are: Pickwick Theater, a Tudor Revival home at 519 Cedar, Maine Township High School (now Maine East), the National Bank of Park Ridge (later known as Citizens Bank, now Chase Bank), and the Malone Block of storefronts, 127-157 N Northwest Highway which included a post office (later home of Kiko’s).
In 1929 Zook & McCaughey dissolved their partnership and McCaughey opened an office in the Pickwick building. He continued to shape Park Ridge in his designs of many local buildings including the present Park Ridge Library building (partnering with local architect Charles Rowe), George B. Carpenter School, the American Casualty Company building (now City Hall), and a home at 720 S Lincoln, which has been landmarked by the City of Park Ridge at the request of the Historic Preservation Commission.
Sadly, McCaughey’s prolific career was cut short when he was hit by a car in front of his Prospect Avenue home in February 1961 while crossing the street to speak to a neighbor.
1 / Newspaper article of McCaughey’s death. STRUCK BY CAR, ARCHITECT DIES IN PARK RIDGE: Stopped for a Visit with Neighbor Chicago Daily Tribune (1923-1963); Feb 25, 1961; ProQuest Historical Newspapers: Chicago Tribune. pg. B11
2 / Home at 118 N Prospect Avenue.
3 / William McCaughey (right) with design team
SO MUCH TO SMILE ABOUT...
Cast of Mary, Seat of Wisdom’s Drama Club’s production of Imagine a Dragon.
Park Ridge Community Church Mardi Gras Benefit’s Volunteers: Marylynn Collentine, Gretchen Kapolnek, George VanGeem and Colleen Moriarty
Rev. Carol Hill and Mary Biardo ready to raise funds for the church ministries at The Park Ridge Community Church Mardi Gras Benefit
Cast of Maine East Fine Arts Department’s production of Matilda!.
Two year old Ariella Cibrian enjoying a vanilla cone at Dairy Queen on Free Cone Day!
Who needs luck when you have friends like these? Neighbors gather at the Northwest Side Irish Parade
Shamrockin’ and rollin’ at the Northwest Side Irish Parade!
Park Ridge Professional Moms hosted their annual luncheon for International Women’s Day at Harp and Fiddle on March 7th.
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!
