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!
Thalaiva’s Indian Kitchen (847) 696-7029 www.thalaivasIndiankitchen.com
RESTAURANTS / ENTERTAINMENT
Village of Rosemont (847) 993-8312 rosemont.com
TRAVEL AGENCY/TRAVEL ADVISOR
Uproute Travel (224) 567-9834
www.uproutetravel.com
VEIN AND AESTHETIC CHICAGO VEINCARE CENTER (847) 983-0445 www.yourveinexpert.com
and
with or sponsored by any club,
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. Suite 100A
Park Ridge Christmas Stroll & Santa Stroll keep us in the holiday spirit!
November is a time to pause, reflect, and give thanks—for family, friends, neighbors, and the wonderful community we share here in Park Ridge. As the holiday season approaches, I’m especially grateful for the many ways this town continues to come together in kindness, generosity, and pride.
This month, we honor and remember our veterans —the brave men and women whose service and sacrifice have secured the freedoms we cherish. I encourage everyone to attend Park Ridge’s annual Honor and Remembrance Ceremony, a moving tradition that reminds us of what truly matters: gratitude, community, and respect.
And as we turn the corner into the festive season, there’s so much to look forward to! The 2nd Annual Park Ridge Christmas Stroll returns to light up Uptown with joy and holiday cheer! This
family event is a benefit for Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge. Enjoy quality family time and fun while strolling around to various venues enjoying the sights and sounds of the Christmas Season with your community. Of course, good ol’ Saint Nick will make a special trip to visit with all the good little boys and girls. Also, this year, we’re thrilled to introduce the Inaugural Park Ridge Santa Stroll, benefitting The Harbour. The Stroll includes a 5K, a Stroll Mile, and a Jingle Jog for kids 8 and under— fun for all ages! Sign up today and be part of this new Park Ridge tradition.
As always, I’m thankful and grateful to be part of this remarkable community—and to share in the stories, spirit, and heart that make Park Ridge such a special place to live.
Wishing you all a joyful Thanksgiving and a magical start to the holiday season!
LET’S GET TOGETHER!
YOU SHOULD BE HERE!
November 26th and December 17th, 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, November 26th, 9:00 am - 10:15 am at the Park Ridge Country Club. We look forward to seeing you all!
Look who’s back for the 2nd Annual Park Ridge Christmas Stroll!!
Grandma’s Stuffing
More than stuffing - it’s memories made side by side.
BY RESIDENTS MAUREEN & MAURA NYHAN
This recipe is sufficient for a 10-15lb turkey - you may want to double or triple depending on the size of your turkey
INGREDIENTS
• 2 - 12oz packages of cubed stuffing - seasoned
• 2 - Sticks of Butter
• 2 - Cups of diced onion
• 2 - Cups of diced celery
• 4 - Cups of Chicken Broth
• Salt and Pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients
• Turkey Giblets
• Mushrooms
• Italian Sausage
• Raisins
• Oysters
STEPS
1. Melt butter in skillet and add celery and onion - cook until the celery and onion are soft - 5 -10 minutes
2. Once the celery and onion are soft and a little translucent - add the chicken broth and bring to a boil
3. In a separate bowl add the packages of the cubed seasoned stuffing. Once the chicken broth mixture comes to a boil, add to the stuffing mixture. Mix everything together. If the mixture seems dry, you can always add more broth or butter - butter makes everything better.
Share your favorite recipe! Scan QR Code to submit! Check out the STROLL Park Ridge Facebook group & “What’s Cookin’ Park Ridge?” for more delicious recipes from your community!
The stuffing can be placed in the bird - If it is placed in the bird, the stuffing will be less likely to dry out as well. You can also place the stuffing into a greased 13X9 pan. If cooking in a 13X9 pan, you can set oven to 350 and cook covered with foil for 30 minutes. For the last 10 minutes remove the fool and cook in the oven.
This stuffing recipe is the base for any stuffing recipe. Depending on the invite list and their preferred tastes - you can add other items to enhance the flavor.
Grandma Nyhan cooks Thanksgiving dinner every year for her family. She sometimes takes a break to do the Edison Park Turkey Trot but is right back at it as soon as the race is over. Maura and grandma are best friends! You can find them both in grandmas kitchen making cookies at least twice a week.
SAY HELLO TO THE BOROWICZ
BOROWICZ
Family members: Bartosz, Natalia, Borys (13), Lili (10).
How long have you lived in the neighborhood? 10 years.
How long have you been with your spouse and how did you meet? We have been together for 25 years. We met each other in high school.
What are your professions? My husband is a physical therapist by profession. We also, brought our business, Follkee, from Poland. We’ve been running our business together.
Tell us about your kids. Borys is 13 years old. He loves playing tennis and trains five times a week at an academy near Park Ridge. Lili, is 10, loves to sing and attends cheerleading classes in Park Ridge. She is a student at Washington.
What do you like to do together as a family? As a Polish family living in Chicago, we love spending time together exploring the city, especially enjoying biking the lakefront. One of our favorite traditions is making pierogi together—everyone has
Photo credit: Simon Eva Photography
Photo credit: Simon Eva Photography
WE FEEL MOST CONNECTED WHEN SURROUNDED BY NATURE. WE DO OUR BEST TO LIVE AN ECO-FRIENDLY LIFESTYLE AND TREAD LIGHTLY WHEREVER WE GO.
their role, from rolling the dough to choosing fillings. We also celebrate Polish holidays like Wigilia with traditional food and family stories. It’s these small, shared moments that bring us closer and keep our roots alive, even far from home.
When does your family feel the most connected? We’re a family of mountain lovers; highlanders at heart. We feel most connected when surrounded by nature. We do our best to live an eco-friendly lifestyle and tread lightly wherever we go.
Describe your perfect day in Park Ridge as a family. Our perfect day in Park Ridge starts with a peaceful morning walk through one of the beautiful forest preserves. We’d grab breakfast at a local place. Later, we might stop by the Farmers Market to pick up fresh, locally grown ingredients for a homemade lunch. In the afternoon, we’d take our kids to a nearby park or go for a family bike ride—they absolutely love it..We end the day with a family dinner and sharing stories. That’s our idea of perfect..
Favorite Park Ridge Restaurant? Blufish Sushi.
Favorite Park Ridge Park? Centennial.
What are you grateful for? We are grateful for Mother Earth and the beauty she offers. We believe in people, and we hope they believe in us. With all our hearts, we strive to make this planet a better place to live—and that’s the spirit in which we raise our children: with hard work, respect, and deep appreciation for the world around them.
RADIANCE BEGINS HERE
Gratitude Generation
Inspiring gratitude, one service project at a time.
BY JEN ADAMS - DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
Gratitude Generation (g2) is a nonprofit that provides communityservice opportunities for children, families, and organizations. g2 believes that when kids practice gratitude and help others, it instills giving and builds strong values. We support neighbors in need while raising service-minded leaders.
What types of services or programs does your organization offer?
Gratitude Generation organizes and funds 10+ monthly hands-on service opportunities where children, families, and businesses make a tangible difference. Every project is designed with dual impact: inspiring gratitude in volunteers while supporting those in need. Projects include hygiene kits, meals, care packages, and animal adoption kits—all donated to nonprofit partners to extend the impact. In just a few years, g2 has supported 200+ nonprofits, hosted hundreds of service opportunities, and sparked countless connections and compassion.
What inspired you to dedicate your time and effort to this cause? Watching my children experience the joy of volunteering has been incredible. The lessons of kindness, empathy, and giving back grow with them every day. Gratitude and service can change lives, and g2 makes it easy for families to have meaningful impact.
What challenges have you encountered along the way? Founded in Lake County in 2018, g2 has hosted hundreds of events and expanded into Cook County in 2024. One of our biggest challenges has been building awareness, but we’re addressing it through community engagement, local partnerships (thank you, Stroll Park Ridge!), and offering volunteer opportunities that are welcoming and easy to join.
In what ways have you seen your efforts positively impact the community? What’s been the most
“Watching my children experience the joy of volunteering has been incredible. The lessons of kindness, empathy, and giving back grow with them every day.”
rewarding part of working with this organization? I’ve seen g2 impact the community by giving children a place to volunteer and providing nonprofits with resources to fuel their missions.
The most rewarding part is watching kids develop a love of volunteering— they’re making a real difference, and it’s inspiring to see!
Tell us about any upcoming projects. g2 has many volunteer opportunities, from packing projects to service events—always free to join. Come spread gratitude and make an impact! All opportunities are listed on our website.
https://www.gratitudegeneration. org or reach out to jen.adams@ gratitudegeneration.org to get involved!
Young hands, big impact: 60 Cleaning with Meaning buckets packed and delivered to A Safe Haven.
These teens helped pack over 500 bags of groceries that were donated to Midwest Veterans Closet and Veterans Path for Hope.
These young changemakers packed travel-size 4 Your Care Kits to bring comfort and care to individuals experiencing homelessness.
Barkley & Havi
BY RESIDENTS BARKLEY & HAVI (CHANDRA) KEARNEY
We are The Kearney Dogs!
Family members: Chandra, Tom, Ryan, Collin, Griffin and Abbie.
Are your dogs angels or a bit of troublemakers? Barkley is an angel and calm and sweet. Havi thinks he’s still a puppy and plays all the time. Both are extremely spoiled by mom with treats and toys and they get to sleep in the bed every night.
Do they have any specific talents? Barkley likes to give high fives and can “play” football by catching the ball when prompted by the word “hike”. Havi likes to play dead when “shot” at and loves to magically open the garbage can when food scraps are placed in there.
Is there anything other neighbors or pets would know them for? Barkley is known as the sweet dog who drops to her back for a tummy rub. Havi is known for his barking when at the front door and for his piercing beautiful eyes.
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!
How would they tell the story of the day they met you and your human family? Barkley: I met my family when they came to pick me out. They were so excited because they always wanted a dog. I was the shy one but I went up to my human brother and they all decided on me. When I got to my new home I was in heaven and I’ve been loved ever since. Havi: I was originally adopted for my nana and papa. My mom trained me. But my nana got sick. Nana decided I should stay with my mom and dad. My human siblings were so happy to have a second dog. Barkley was a little annoyed but I won her over. I even taught her to bark!
What are their personality traits? Barkley is the most chilled dog ever. Havi is the most playful dog that lives to make sure he touches you when laying down.
What are their pet peeves? Havi: when Barkley steal the toy I’m playing with and then lays on it so I can’t get it. Barkley: when my humans stop petting me after starting.
AROUND TOWN
Wings Purple Tie Ball Gala. Have Dreams Golf Classic took place on September 15th.
Happy 10th birthday Sunny!
Wings Purple Tie Gala at Westin Hotel in Rosemont.
Outdoor dining fun.
Rainbows
Park Ridge Community Church.
Police Chief Kampwirth and Maryellen Waters.
Taking a cruise at the Courtland Block Party.
Jeff Malarski and Briana Scalet from Dairy Queen with the Best in Show Vanilla ice cream and Blue Ribbon winning cake.
Have Dreams Golf Classic at Kemper Lakes Golf Club.
The Park Ridge Newcomers Club Kids Sale. Stroll was a proud sponsor!
Park Ridge League: “Sweet Tees” L to R: Andrea Siergey , Debi Glibkoski, Stroll Park Ridge sponsorChardonnee Cunningham, Julia Baraglia.
Over 100 Mental Health Kits were assembled by Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge.
We loved celebrating Maryellen Waters 90th Birthday at the Stroll monthly community coffee in September.
Maine South HS students help assemble mental health kits with Kiwanis.
St. Paul of the Cross’ Nora Grace Ryan. Crazy Hair Day!
Lucy in her dirndl at Trucktoberfest.
Maine South High School Homecoming.
These kids are Picture Day ready! Photo submitted by proud mom Chardonnee Cunningham.
Former Saint Paul of the Cross pastor, Father Brito back in town to celebrate his birthday at Fire+Wine with Stroll publisher Dolly McCarthy.
Kiwanis
Stroll Park Ridge was a proud sponsor!
Park Ridge STROLLERS enjoying a Monday evening Stroll.
Girls with game, flags with flair. Park Ridge Football & Cheer League
Maine South High School Homecoming.
Park Ridge’s Avery’s Army raised over $24,000 for the Breakthrough T1D Walk.
Club of Park Ridge Pancake Day!
STROLL Park Ridge Goes to Ireland
In September, Park Ridge residents turned into travel mates as they explored life across the pond in beautiful Ireland.
“We had the best time visiting this enchanted island! The weather was perfect. We traveled with great people who are now our new friends!”
ALLEN ACKERMAN
Trucktober Fest in Park Ridge
Perfect Fall Day for Trucktober Fest in Park Ridge! Stroll Park Ridge was a Proud Sponsor of this fun event put on by the Park Ridge Park District.
Allen Ackerman and Katie McMahon raise a pint to Ireland and new friendships.
A STROLL DOWN MEMORY LANE
Remember Old King Cole strollin’ through town?!
BY FORMER RESIDENT AND AUTHOR VIC LARSON
Crowds gathered for the Park Ridge Christmas parade that traveled from Hinckley Field to South Park on Thanksgiving weekend in 1971. Old King Cole was one of the larger-than-life characters featured in the second annual parade. Do you have any family photos from Park Ridge past? Share them with us at strollparkridge@ gmail.com We will feature them in a future issue!
Follow Stroll
Park Ridge on Social Media
For additional glimpses of Stroll Park Ridge including photos, videos and stories around town and more, follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
@StrollParkRidge on Facebook
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DID YOU KNOW?
BY RESIDENT JOAN MATTINGLY
DID YOU KNOW... that there was a movie theater in Park Ridge BEFORE the Pickwick, which opened in 1928? The Ridge Theater, located at 203 Vine Street, across from Hodges Park, opened in 1924 showing a silent film titled Her Night of Romance starring Ronald Colman and Constance Talmadge. The building’s exterior featured a Spanish Colonial terra cotta facade. The theater’s interior was completed in a French renaissance style designed by Park Ridge resident artist John Paulding, executed by McPherson Decorating.
When Park Ridge became a city in 1910, members of the community were requesting Carnegie Foundation funding to build a library. A local artist began showing silent films in a building shared with a grocery store. A movie theater seating 1200 was a logical addition to the thriving community.
The Ridge Theater offered an extravagant atmosphere and was an important social gathering place for residents. Though the films were silent, the theater had a Gottfried organ which enhanced the viewer’s experience. It is reported that the theater was heated and had “washed air.”
William Malone, the city’s second mayor, commissioned several buildings in Park Ridge including the Pickwick Theater which opened in 1928. The Ridge Theater was a competitor of Malone’s Pickwick, so Malone eventually bought The Ridge, and it went dark, closing in 1936.
In 1956, the Ridge was converted to a Michael Kirby ice skating studio. The movie theater’s sloped floor was leveled with sand; refrigeration equipment was installed. The studio closed in 1973. Tenants came and went, but the condition of the building and its systems became badly deteriorated. The building was demolished in 1983, making way for today’s Ridge Square Condominiums.
Some decorative exterior terra cotta blocks were salvaged. The Park Ridge Historical Society recently gifted the Kalo Foundation with one of these blocks which has now been placed in the Iannelli Studios Garden where we all can enjoy a bit of local history. The Kalo Center is typically open the second and fourth Saturdays of the month from 11 to 2. Admission is free, but donations are much appreciated. Various special programs are scheduled throughout the year. Check the website, kalofoundation.org.
The Ridge Theater offered an extravagant atmosphere and was an important social gathering place for residents.
Ridge Theater on Vine Street opened in 1924.
Terra Cotta block salvaged from the front of the Ridge Theater, currently on display in the garden at the Iannelli Studios on Northwest Highway.
It’s Showtime!!!
BY RESIDENT SCOTT CASTELLANOS
Lately, I’ve been asked if I have any comedy shows coming up, my usual answer is “I’ve been on a break but am starting again.” As I gear up to start again and thought of all the preparation and unpredictability there is performing, it occurred to me, being a performer is a lot like being a parent. Every morning, the alarm goes off and I get myself squared away, so I am ready for the day. For shows, I sit in the green room and go over my jokes, so I am ready for my time on stage. At home I get the kids going, which is like the curtain going up. It’s go time! Usually, when I start my set, I like to throw a couple quick jokes to feel out the audience. My kids are teens, I can tell how it’s going to go by how long it takes to get them out of bed. From here, I go into my routine. On stage it’s my material and home I literally follow the same order of events to get them out the door. Don’t get fancy, just go with what works. The rest of the day is like the 2nd half of a comedy set. It is all about setting up the audience for the finale. This is where things can go off the rails. At a show, it can be a
heckler, a power outage or really anything that interferes with the show. Kids and reallife on the other hand have a wider range of disruptions. From something they forgot and need now, an activity changing in any way and all the way up to relationship drama. In both cases, they key is to have a plan B, improvise and get to end as strongly as you can.
Every month, I learn another way about how being a parent is a lot like something else. I think that just goes to show
Park Ridge
for
and
Grace Cowie
BY RESIDENT & JUNIOR WRITER JOSETTE STEINFELS
How old are you? 11 years old.
What street do you live on? I live on Imperial Street.
What school do you go to and what grade? I go to Lincoln Middle School and in 6th grade.
Do you have any siblings and do you have any pets? Yes, I have one sister, Quinn, who is 9. I also have two dogs named Benny and Max.
Do you do any sports? Yes, I do cheer at Ultimate Athletics and softball with the Park Ridge Ravens. I have been doing cheer since I was seven and I love everything about cheer. Right now, in my routine I am a base but I am also training to be a flyer. I have been doing softball since I was five and my favorite thing about it is the friends I have on the Ravens and hitting.
What is your favorite thing to do with your family? I really like to go out to eat with my family because we always try something new like foods and restaurants.
What do you do in your free time? I like to tumble, hang out with my friends, and go Uptown. I mostly just walk around Uptown.
What is your favorite Park Ridge restaurant? My favorite Park Ridge restaurant is Shakou because I really like the sushi. My favorite sushi rolls are the California and Rainbow rolls.
What is your favorite memory? My favorite memory is when my parents surprised my sister and me with a trip to Disney World. The food there was really good and I loved the rides.
What do you want to be when you grow up? I want to be an interior designer because I like to design things and I like the idea of being an interior designer.
S. Brower, Principal and Managing Attorney
What is your favorite Park Ridge park to go to? My favorite Park Ridge park is Northwest Park because my uncle and aunt live right next to it and I like to play on the softball fields and the three playgrounds are really fun.
What is your favorite part about Thanksgiving? I love the cranberry sauce, stuffing, and my aunt’s Mac and Cheese.
THANK YOU PARK RIDGE!
WE LOVE HEARING FROM YOU!
“My favorite part of Stroll Park Ridge is how the magazine puts the community front-and-center in everything. It’s not just about the restaurants, not just about the businesses, not just about the sports, not just about the schools, but all of it. After all, it’s the people who make Park Ridge the wonderful place it is. And Stroll always puts the people in our community first”.
JOSEPH STEINFELS
“Fun having you and the strollers visit the Raffle House last night. The accolades were appreciated as I still revel in my home’s architectural style. Stroll back anytime.”
TONI AND COCO FLOSI
“We are so grateful for your support, and helping us spread the word about the Horner Hustle. Our first place finisher for women found out about the race in Stroll. Diana Stapleton joined us because her neighbor was just diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.”
KATHLEEN OF HORNER HUSTLE
“Stroll Park Ridge is all about connection. It brings neighbors together, highlights the people and stories that make this community special, and keeps that small-town feel alive. I love how it supports local businesses and nonprofits while celebrating the positive things happening right here in Park Ridge. It’s a great reminder of how strong and close-knit our community really is.”
JOHN TUNNELL
“People came to the lemonade stand because they saw the post on Stroll. Your support moved mountains!”
SARAH WALTER MOM OF AVERY OF AVERY’S ARMY
“Your magazine is a most valuable resource for every Park Ridge resident”.
FELICIA PRZEKOTA
“Being part of Stroll Park Ridge through Christie’s Carousel has been such a joy. We love how the magazine brings the community together—not just through stories, but through events that create real connections. Dolly’s passion for local businesses and families shines in everything she does, and we’re proud to be involved!”
JAN & JUDY OF CHRISTIE’S CAROUSEL OF LEARNING
“I feel so lucky and grateful to have met you! Thank you so very much for your support and for helping promote my little game with a big heart! I appreciate it beyond words.”
SARA HORAK OF KNOW YOUR NEIGHBOR
Joseph Steinfels
John Tunnell
Sara Horak
Sarah Walter
Dr. Princess Gabor
“Dolly is such an amazing person. She has an outgoing personality...she is beautiful inside and out! I am grateful to have had the opportunity to meet another woman who empowers other women.”
DR. PRINCESS GABOR OF ORGANIC HEALING COUNSELING
“We have been Stroll advertisers and readers going on 4 years. The stories are very informative regarding our town and the work that Dolly and her team do is amazing! Dolly’s energy and enthusiasm permeates our town as she helps to coordinate many different events to connect the residents and guests. This positive spirit and happiness is much appreciated, especially during these trying times. We appreciate having you provide such a role in our community. “Little Park Ridge” has become “Big Park Ridge” in so many ways!”
GERI BALAZS OF VIVE! THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE
“Stroll
has been a great addition to our small, quaint community of Park Ridge. We love reading the magazines each month and following for all the events. Our family also loves seeing our friends and neighbors throughout the articles. Thank you Stroll for helping our town shine!”
ANGIE MAZUREK
“Working with Stroll Park Ridge has been an outstanding experience for our team at Orange Shoe. Dolly runs the publication with a level of professionalism, warmth, and community focus that’s truly unmatched. From start to finish, she made the process of featuring our studio seamless and enjoyable. Not only does Stroll Park Ridge provide beautifully curated content, but it also connects local businesses like ours to residents in a meaningful way. The exposure we’ve received has brought in new clients who share our passion for health and wellness, and it’s clear Dolly genuinely cares about showcasing the best of our neighborhood. If you’re a local business looking to reach Park Ridge families and build authentic connections, I can’t recommend Stroll Park Ridge and Dolly enough. She goes above and beyond to highlight what makes each business special and truly helps strengthen our community.”
TALHA SAJJAD OWNER, ORANGE SHOE PERSONAL FITNESS PARK RIDGE
“I attended my first coffee today and it was lovely, I am looking forward to getting more involved.”
SUE AND ROB PETERSON
Strolling
Maine Cemetery
BY RESIDENT PAUL HANSEN
The Civil War soldier reminded me Of what a different world it would be If those vets had not fought for liberty
LOCAL EVENTS
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1 -
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30
Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge’s D64 Holiday Food Basket Drive
Help out the annual District 64 Holiday Food Basket Drive. Donations of all size will help to fund gift cards for families in School District 64. www.kiwanispr.org
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1
9:00am - 3:00pm
Treasures & Trinkets Holiday Bazaar
Centennial Activity Center, 100 S Western Ave.
Handmade holiday crafts, clothing, jewelry, gifts, and much more is for sale during the Annual Holiday Bazaar. www.prparks.org
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1
12:30pm - 1:30pm
Pumpkin Smash & Bash
Centennial Park, 100 S Western Ave.
Roll your pumpkin down the Centennial Sled Hill in a fun competition that kicks off the event, smash and bash them, then launch them into piles of compost. Stroll Park Ridge is proud sponsor of this event. www.prparks.org
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2
Daylight Saving Time Ends
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6
6:00pm -12:00am
The Well Resource CenterRooted for Good Gala Joe’s Live, 5441 Park Pl, Rosemont
This gala style event is all about fun and fundraising to support first responders and their families with mental health, wellness, and support programs through The Well Resource Center. www.thewellrc.org
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8
10:30am -12:00pm
Super Heroes in the Park
Maine Park Leisure Center, 2701 W Sibley St.
Grab your capes and assemble for an action-packed afternoon at Superheroes in the Park! www.prparks.org
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8
6:00pm -10:00pm
Trivia Night
Prospect Park - O’Connor Building, 733 N Prospect Ave.
Questions emphasize having fun rather than testing extreme knowledge! Form a team with a group of friends, co-workers, or family. www.prparks.org
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11
Veterans Day
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11
11:00am -11:30am
Veterans Day Gathering
Hodges Park, 101 Courtland Ave. American Legion Post 247 members will gather at the American Legion Veterans Monument to commemorate the end of World War One and the more than 1,000 veterans who have been members of the Post since 1918.
ParkRidgeLegion@aol.com
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Stroll Park Ridge Book Club Refreshments will be served. www.strollparkridge.com
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Park Ridge Garden Club Meeting
Centennial Activity Center, 100 S. Western Ave.
Barbara Collins will speak on what to do to help our plants survive. www.parkridgegardenclub.org
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14
4:00pm - 7:00pm Science Night
Wildwood Program Center, 531 Forestview Ave.
Turn your family into scientists and explore fun science concept. www.prparks.org
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14
11:45am - 2:45pm Center of Concern - Bunko Park Ridge Country Club, 636 N. Prospect Ave. www.centerofconcern.org
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17
Santa’s Mailbox
Maine Park Leisure Center, 2701 W Sibley St.
Santa’s Mailbox is at the Maine Park Leisure Center! Write your own letter or submit a “Letter to Santa” form, and Santa will write back! www.prparks.org
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17
12:00pm - 2:30pm
6th Annual S.T.A.R. Turkey Trot & Luncheon
Centennial Activity Center, 100 S Western Ave.
Trot like a turkey around the CAC as you partake in this classic Thanksgiving race. www.prparks.org
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19
7:00pm -11:00pm
Baby Spirit Foundation’s Wine Dinner Harp & Fiddle, 110 Main St. Wine Dinner benefitting local nonprofit, Baby Spirit Foundation. Call (847) 720-4466 to reserve your spot.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26
9:00am -10:15am
Stroll Park Ridge Monthly Coffee Park Ridge Country Club, 636 N. Prospect Ave.
Open to all in the Park Ridge Community! Sponsored by Sue Hall with @properties. Please rsvp to strollparkridgeevents@ gmail.com
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27 Thanksgiving
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27
8:30am -12:00pm Edison Park Turkey Trot 6754 N Northwest Highway Chicago, The Edison Park Turkey Trot is a 5K run/ walk to benefit various charities every year on Thanksgiving morning. www.epturkeytrot.com
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13
10:00am - 5:00pm
SAVE THE DATE! 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
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. Sign up today! www.strollparkridge.com
POSITIVELY PARK RIDGE PERSON OF THE MONTH: JILL MUNCE
JILL MUNCE IS OUR NOVEMBER Positively Park Ridge Person of the Month because of her deep community involvement, compassionate spirit, and dedication to helping others. For more than three decades, Jill has called Park Ridge home—a place where kindness, connection, and community thrive. Through her work with the Baby Spirit Foundation, Chicago Inspired Women Paying It Forward, and the Guardian Angel Guild at St. Paul of the Cross, she continues to make a lasting impact on countless lives. In this month’s feature, Jill shares more about her family, her inspirations, and what makes Park Ridge such a special place to call home.
How long have you lived in Park Ridge? My husband Jay and I moved here 30 years ago, shortly after we married.
Tell us about your family. Our kids, Alec and Maggi, attended St. Paul of the Cross and Maine South. They now live in Chicago. Alec works in revenue operations, and Maggi is a behavior technician for children with autism.
Who is your inspiration? My mom. She was a school librarian who made books come alive for disadvantaged kids and welcomed anyone who needed a place, even on Thanksgiving. I hope I’ve inspired my family in the same way. We often share “mercy moments” of small ways we’ve helped others.
Jill Munce
Inspired Women July kick-off event.
Baby Spirit Foundation Giving Day. Baby Spirit Foundation Giving Day.
Why do you think people often stay in Park Ridge or come back? It’s a wonderful place to raise a family, with a strong community spirit.
How have you been involved in the community? The Baby Spirit Foundation is a local nonprofit that believes no family should experience pregnancy or infant loss alone. We provide compassionate funeral services, education, and emotional support at no cost. As a board member, I focus on marketing, events, and fundraising so more families know help is available. On Nov. 19, Baby Spirit will host its first Wine Dinner fundraiser at Harp & Fiddle, with proceeds expanding these services. Chicago Inspired Women Paying It Forward is another initiative close to my heart. This newly launched local women’s
giving circle gathers quarterly and pools donations to help nonprofits raise critical funds. Our next event is Jan. 27 at Ridgemoor Country Club. The evening will feature vendor shopping, raffles, and nonprofit presentations, with members voting on where funds are directed. All are welcome. Additionally, the Guardian Angel Guild at St. Paul of the Cross has been part of my life for over 25 years, supporting parish programs, the food pantry, and local charities. A playgroup I helped start when my son was a baby still gets together (albeit without kids), proof of the lasting friendships built in Park Ridge.
What are you looking forward to in the next year? Growing Inspired Women into new chapters and helping Baby Spirit reach more families.
Minimally invasive treatment of superficial venous reflux disease: endovenous ablation, phlebectomy, superficial laser ablation of spider and reticular veins, veins disease prevention with healthy lifestyle
As a positively Park Ridge person - what is your advice on how to be a good neighbor or friend? I look for ways to lift up others sometimes; a smile is enough.
What do you enjoy about Stroll magazine? Their community events for every age!
5544 Belmont Ave | Chicago, IL 773-283-7887
7437 N Harlem Ave | Niles, IL 847-983-0445
Meet Dr. Elizabeth Fahrenbach, North Branch Dermatology
Can you tell us about your family? I am married to my husband Jason who is an ophthalmologist and one of the owners of Milwaukee Avenue Eye Center right across the hall from us. We have three kids, two girls and one boy.
What inspired you to start your business? I wanted to build my business to serve the community and bring a personal level of care that I feel many medical offices are missing in Dermatology.
What is unique about your business? North Branch Dermatology is composed of all female providers and owned by a female physician/surgeon. We have a very warm and homey office that many patients comment they feel very comfortable entering right from the first visit.
What sets you apart from others in your industry? I really take the time to listen and understand my patients concerns. Those that know me have seen that I don’t rush the patient experience and take as much time as needed in the exam room to get to know my patient personally and professionally to meet their needs.
What do you find most fulfilling about what you do? I love being able to help patients with their skin care needs and building relationships with those that I care for.
Given your business expertise, what advice can you offer to the residents? Dermatology is a specialized practice and we see all sorts of skin conditions and skin cancers. The best advice I can offer the residents is to not neglect wearing sun screen even in the winter! It really does help prevent those age spots and skin cancers that we all worry about.
What do you love about our neighborhood publication? Park Ridge is a lovely community and we get a lot of patient referrals from the people that live in Park Ridge to their neighbors, friends and family. Stroll is a perfect exhibition of the great people that live in that neighborhood and we are very grateful to have this opportunity to serve them.
NORTH BRANCH DERMATOLOGY
7411 N Milwaukee Ave
773-763-6000
northbranchdermatology.com
“Very pleasant and professional atmosphere. Dr. Elizabeth and her medical staff were awesome, knowledgeable, eager to help me and answer all my questions. I had a very positive experience. I highly recommend this medical practice.”
The providers of North Branch Dermatology. L to R: Caryn Olshansky PA, Joanna Jaros MD, Katherine Janezic NP, Elizabeth Fahrenbach MD and Megan Bonis NP.
Dr. Elizabeth Fahrenbach
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!
fire+wine
Exceptional food, warm hospitality, and a lively atmosphere
BY RESIDENT THERESA STRAUB
IF YOU ARE LOOKING for upscale casual dining where every experience feels catered to, Fire + Wine is it. This restaurant truly has everything—a wide variety of freshly made food, a top-notch and knowledgeable staff, and a beautiful, cozy atmosphere. General Manager, Nick Dismang, made sure our evening was exceptional from start to finish.
We began with their mouthwatering small plates. The Ricotta & Honeycomb, Arancini, and Veal Meatballs Al Forno were the perfect way to start. We also sampled a delicious Neapolitan style pizza. It was followed by their popular greens—the Beet & Arugula and the Grilled Romaine salads—both of which received rave reviews.
For entrées, we sampled a variety of dishes. The Blackened Whitefish, Jumbo
Lump Crab Cakes, Blackened Pork Chops, Filet Medallions, Beef Short Ribs with Polenta, and the Veal Chop special were all cooked to perfection. Each dish showcased fresh ingredients and bold flavors that left us wanting to return and try more.
Fire + Wine also offers unique features that set it apart. Their CHEF’S CUT steak board menu on weekends pairs different cuts of steak with wine, sauces, and shareable sides. Wine lovers will enjoy WOW (Wine on Wednesdays) with half-price bottles, along with the guidance of their in-house sommelier. Other highlights include Half-Price Pasta Mondays and the Chef’s Playground menu. Guests can also enjoy live entertainment on the patio Tuesday and Wednesday evenings from 5–7 p.m., as well as during Sunday brunch. Fire + Wine has quickly become a local favorite. Find out how and why for yourself!
fire+wine
608 W. Touhy Ave (224) 985-9990
Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes.
Grilled Romaine Salad.
Filet Medallions.
The savory and tender braised short ribs served with fresh spinach, mushrooms and au jus were a perfect complement to the creamy polenta.
MELISSA LUPO
The grilled Romaine salad at Fire and Wine is a smokysweet, flavor-packed standout that’s truly one of a kind.
CHARDONNEE CUNNINGHAM
Blackened Pork Chop.
Butcher’s Corner Neapolitan Style Pizza.
Melissa and Michael Lupo - Park Ridge City Clerk.
STROLL Sponsor Chardonnee Cunningham & Chris Mitchell enjoying the meal and the company.
The Review Team!
L-R: Jack Gould, Phil Depino, Kathy Depino, Chardonnee Cunningham, Chris Mitchell, Melissa Lupo, Michael Lupo, Theresa Straub, Joe Straub, and Kimberly Gould.
AAA PROFESSIONA L MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
Jedidiah Cross
BY RESIDENT JEDIDIAH CROSS
School you attend and grade you’re in? Lincoln Middle School and I’m in 7th Grade.
What sport do you play? I have been playing lacrosse for 3 years.
What inspired you to get started with lacrosse? After being stuck inside for the pandemic, I wanted to try a bunch of different sports. I was already playing soccer and hockey, so lacrosse seemed like the perfect sport to mix both of those and really help me cross-train my skills.
What positions do you play? I’ve played a bit of all the positions, but mainly play midfield and take face-offs now. I’d like to become more dominate at face-offs, but hope to try LSM (long-stick midfielder) or Attack more someday.
What do you enjoy most when playing lacrosse? I really enjoy the high energy and speed of the game. Nothing beats a good face-off win that turns into a fast break and quick pass to a teammate for a goal. I also love hanging out with my teammates and all of the cool places we have traveled to together.
What is your proudest moment? Getting selected for the Adidas All State Games held at Bryant University in Rhode Island and competing with some of the best players in the country. I’d like to thank all of my coaches at Team One and Park Ridge Lacrosse for helping me get to that level, and my parents and family for supporting me in all my sports.
Who is someone you admire? My favorite athlete in lacrosse is Trevor Baptiste, who plays for the New York Atlas. He is best face-off specialist of all time, and I really admire the work and effort he has put into the position to make it what it is today.
What advice do you have for others looking to get into lacrosse? Give it a try and have fun! Lacrosse quickly becomes everyone’s new favorite sport.
If you were to continue practicing your sport, what do you hope to become or accomplish someday? It would be really cool to play all 4 years on Varsity at Maine South, and someday play in college.
“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.
