LandmarkAnswerBook_2026

2026 Answer Book

CONTENTS

Crowds of spectators lined the sidewalks during last year’s Riverside 4th of July parade.

PHOTO BY JILL WAGNER

Interim Executive Director Max Reinsdorf

RIVERSIDE/BROOKFIELD

NEW RESIDENTS’ GUIDE ........................... 3

GOVERNMENT ........................................... 8

ZOO BY THE NUMBERS ........................... 12

THE CLARION NEWSPAPER..................... 15 CLUBS ...................................................... 23

DANCING WITH THE STARS .................... 26

ARTS IN BROOKFIELD/RIVERSIDE .......... 30

Section Editor Lacey Sikora Contributing Reporters Hector Cervantes, Jackie Pisano, Elizabeth Short, Risé Sanders-Weir Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Editorial & Digital Design Lead Javier Govea Designers Susan McKelvey, Vanessa Garza

MOCKTAIL CRAWL .................................. 33

Senior Audience Manager Stacy Coleman

COZY DATE NIGHT OUT .......................... 40

Contributing Photographers Todd Bannor, Steve Johnston Risé Sanders-Weir, Stella Brown Jill Wagner

CHURCHES .............................................. 45

Marketing & Advertising Associate Emma Cullnan

FOOD & DRINK ....................................... 36

STEEPLE/CHURCH CHASE ....................... 42

COONLEY ESTATE ................................... 48

PARKS & RECREATION ............................ 50

LIBRARIES ................................................ 51

LIBRARY TOP BOOKS .............................. 52

REAL ESTATE ........................................... 56

Senior Media Strategist Lourdes Nicholls Circulation Manager Jill Wagner Senior Advisor Dan Haley

On the cover:

RBHS Bulldogs run out onto the field before their game against Elgin during an Upstate Eight Conference football game, Sept. 19, 2025 in Brookfield.

Photo by Steve Johnston

HOW TO REACH US PO Box 6670, River Forest, IL 6035 PHONE: (708) 442-6739 www.RBLandmark.com © 2026 Growing Community Media, NFP

2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 1

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2 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

New Residents’ guide Driver’s Licenses To receive a driver’s license or state ID card, you must provide, in addition to a birth certificate, at least two other forms of identification that validate your name, date of birth, Illinois residency, Social Security number and a valid signature.

The nearest Secretary of State driver’s licensing facilities are: 5301 W. Lexington St., Chicago; 1903 N. Mannheim Road, Melrose Park; and 7358 W. 87th St., Bridgeview. Locations are appointment only.

For questions, contact the Secretary of State’s Office by phone at (800) 252-8980.

Voter Registration Information Registering to vote in Cook County has never been easier.

If you have an Illinois driver’s license or state ID, you can register online through the Illinois State Board of Elections at https://ova.elections.il.gov/.

You can also register to vote in-person through your village.

For information, contact: Riverside Village Clerk: (708) 447-2700 Brookfield Village Manager: (708) 485-7344 For more detailed voter registration information and to find your local polling place, visit the Cook County Clerk’s website at https:// www.cookcountyclerkil.gov/.

U.S. Congressional Districts Riverside and Brookfield fall within two U.S. Congressional Districts.

PROVIDED BY JIM ADAMS

Firefighters respond to fire at 4011 Forest Ave. in Brookfield.

Township Information Parts of Brookfield and Riverside are part of Riverside Township. Parts of North Riverside and Brookfield are part of Proviso Township. A small portion of Riverside and the south half of Brookfield are part of Township of Lyons.

Emergency Numbers General: 911 Illinois Poison Control: (800) 222-1222

Non-Emergency Numbers Riverside Police: (708) 447-2127 Fire: (708) 447-2123 Brookfield Police: (708) 485-8131 Fire: (708) 485-0076

Important Phone Numbers Village and Township Offices ■ Riverside Village Hall: (708) 447-2700 ■ Brookfield Village Hall: (708) 485-7344 ■ Riverside Township: (708) 442-4400

■ Proviso Township:

(708) 449-4300

Local School Districts Riverside/North Riverside ■ Riverside School District 96: (708) 447-5007 Brookfield/La Grange Park ■ Brookfield-La Grange Park School District 95: (708) 485-0606 ■ La Grange District 102: (708) 482-2400 ■ Lyons School District 103: (708) 783-4100 ■ Riverside Brookfield High School District 208: (708) 442-7500

2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 3

New Resident’s Post Offices Store Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m.- 7p.m. • Sat 7:30 a.m.- 6p.m.

Sunday 8a.m.- 4p.m.

48 E. Burlington St., Riverside, Illinois 60546 www.riverside-foods.com • (708) 447-0324 Your local, family-owned and operated grocery store

Riverside Garage

Brookfield 3731 Prairie Ave. (708) 485-0572 La Grange Park 701 E. 31st St. (708) 354-4606 Riverside 45 E. Burlington St. (708) 442-8207

Local Hospitals

We willdo always do everything the confidence We will always everything possiblepossible to merit to themerit confidence UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Hinsdale haveinshown in choosing us to serve you.You! Thank You! you haveyou shown choosing us to serve you.

Thank Hospital been a pleasure serving the community for years. over 40 years.

It’s beenIt’s a pleasure serving the community for over 40 120 N. Oak St., Hinsdale TUNE UPS, BRAKES, & FRONT END SPECIALIST A Brookfield Business A Brookfield Business Since Since 1981 1981 Tires • Batteries • Exhaust Systems • Emissions • Air Conditioning

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(630) 856-9000

UChicago Medicine AdventHealth LaGrange Memorial Hospital 5101 Willow Springs Road, La Grange (708) 245-9000

Color Karat Gold, Platinum, Color and Karatand Gold, Platinum, S.S. 925 S.S. 925 Loose Diamonds & Gemstones • Insurance Appraisals Loyola University Medical Loose Diamonds & Gemstones • Insurance Appraisals Jewelryand Repair and Remounts • Pearl Restringing Center Jewelry Repair Remounts • Pearl Restringing Ring Sizing •Bands Watch & Batteries Sizing • Watch & Bands Batteries 2160 S. First Ave., Maywood ARing Brookfield Business for over 45 years H Work on Premises H H Work Done on Done Premises H (888) 584-7888

We Support Truth in Pricing Value, Personal & Integrity Value, Personal ServiceService & Integrity MacNeal Hospital Specializing intoCustom Designs We will always do everything possible merit the Weconfidence will always do everything possible to merit the confidence

J. •Blando •Color 3rdand Generation Jeweler since 1912 3249 S. Oak Park Ave., Gary J.Gary Blando 3rd Generation Jeweler since 1912 Karat Gold, Platinum, S.S. 925 Berwyn “Loose A Genuine Jeweler Trust.”

“A Genuine Jeweler You CanYou Trust.”

Diamonds & Gemstones • Can Insurance Appraisals (708) 783-9100 you have shown in choosing us to serve you. Thank you You! have shown in choosing us to serve you. Thank You! It’s been a pleasure serving the community for over It’s been 40 years. a pleasure serving the community for over 40 years.

A Brookfield Business Since 1981A Brookfield Business Since 1981

Jewelry Repair ★ Remounts ★ Pearl Restringing We Support Truth Pricing We•expensive Support Truth Ring Sizing Watch not have to be to&inBatteries bePricing different.

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Integrity Loose Diamonds & Value, Gemstones •Personal Insurance Appraisals Loose Diamonds && Gemstones • Insurance Appraisals Jewelry Repair and Remounts • Pearl Restringing Jewelry Repair and Remounts • Pearl Restringing Buy now, layaway until Christmas at since 0%& Batteries interest.

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Gary Blando 3rd Generation Jeweler 1912 Ring SizingJ. • Watch Bands & • Batteries Ring Sizing • Watch Bands

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H Work Done on Premises H “A Genuine Jeweler You Service Can Trust. ” Value, Personal & Integrity West Suburban Medical Gary J. Blando • 3rd Generation Jeweler since Gary 1912 J. Blando • 3rd Generation Jeweler since 1912 Center Inventory “A Genuine Jeweler You Can Trust.”

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Wouldn’t you like to have something Tue./Wed./Fri. 1:30 - 7:00made? pm

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Chamber PleaseLTHS Support Small Business Chamber BRRC LTHS BRRC Member Member Chamber Chamber LTHS BRRC LTHS BRRC 1972 1999 1972 1999 Member Member 1972 1999 1972 1999

Where Fine Quality & Reasonable FREE CLEANING! Cost Come Together FREE CLEANING! (on sunny days only)

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Mon. & Thurs. 12:00 - 8:00 pm Tue./Wed./Fri. 1:30 - 7:00 pm Saturday 10:30 - 4:00 pm Appointments Recommended Better to Service You

Mon. & Thurs. 12:00 - 8:00 pm Tue./Wed./Fri. 1:30 - 7:00 pm Saturday 10:30 - 4:00 pm Appointments Recommended Better to Service You

Utilities Nicor Gas (Natural Gas): (888) 642-6748 ComEd (Electric) (Oakbrook Terrace): (800) 334-7661

FREE CLEANING! FREE CLEANING!

(ondays sunny days only) (on sunny only)

4 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Mon.12:00 & Thurs.

12:00 Mon. &Book Thurs.

- 8:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Tue./Wed./Fri. - 7:00 pm Tue./Wed./Fri. 1:30 - Small 7:001:30 pm Please Support Small Business Please Support Business Saturday 10:30 Saturday 10:30 - 4:00 pm - 4:00 pm

AT&T (Phone, Cable, Internet): (800) 331-0500 Xfinity (Phone, Cable, Internet): (800) 934-6489

Cook County State Agencies Attorney General Consumer Protection Bureau: (800) 386-5438 Attorney General Senior Citizens Consumer Fraud Hotline: (800) 243-5377 Attorney General Military and Veterans’ Rights Hotline: (800) 382-3000 Cook County Clerk’s Office: Bureau of Vital Records: (312) 603-7790 Cook County Department of Public Health: (708) 836-8600 Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office: (312) 603-1880 Forest Preserve District of Cook County: (800) 870-3666 Cook County Sheriff’s Police Department: (708) 865-4700 Illinois Child Abuse Hotline (DCFS): (800) 252-2873 Illinois Department of Employment Security: (800) 244-5631 Illinois Department of Human Services: (800) 843-6154 Illinois Department of Revenue: (800) 732-8866 Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): (217) 782-3397 U.S. Post Office Customer Service: (800) 275-8777

Kuruvilla says his job has given him a special appreciation for the Brookfield community

B

By ELIZABETH SHORT Contributing Reporter

rookfield is the “second home” of Police Chief Michael Kuruvilla.

“I didn’t grow up and I don’t live in Brookfield,” said Kuruvilla, “But of all the communities, this is the place that feels like home.”

This summer will mark Kuruvilla’s 20th year of working at the Brookfield Police Department. His entire career has been based in Brookfield, where he has worked as an officer, sergeant, lieutenant, deputy chief, and chief since 2021.

Growing up, Kuruvilla says he was enamored with the police. He saw there was good and bad in the world and wanted to be a police officer to work for good. As a first-generation American born to Indian immigrants, Kuruvilla did not see many people who looked like him in law enforcement.

Kuruvilla graduated from Stevenson High School and received his bachelor’s and master’s in social work from University of Illinois–Chicago. Six weeks PROVIDED after graduating with his master’s Brookfield Police Chief Michael Kuruvilla degree, he was offered the job in Brookfield.

Over time, Kuruvilla said he learned de-escalation, and more holistic approaches to that the simple “good and bad” view of people who commit crimes while experiencing the world was not always true. However, he says he mental health crises. continues to see his educational and professional Outside of work, Kuruvilla is a proud husband work as giving him the opportunity to help people. and father.

His family spends free time and holidays Keeping the community safe remains the priority in Brookfi eld, and his job means he is always at of Kuruvilla and his department. “My team does community events.

Every year, he attends Monsters great work, he said, “and we’re supported by a great on Main, Music on Grand, the July 4 parade, community.”

Farmers’ Markets, and other events. Kuruvilla said Throughout his career, Kuruvilla said he has that seeing the spirit of the village through his job worked to reframe the traditional law enforcement has endeared his heart to the Brookfield community. mindset and has advocated for crisis intervention,

GETTING TO KNOW

Brookfield is ‘second home’ for Police Chief Michael Kuruvilla

2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 5

CALL US OR REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT ONLINE

6 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

The former battalion chief is excited to take on his new responsibilities

W

By ELIZABETH SHORT Contributing Reporter

hen Matthew Dubik, interim Fire Chief in Brookfield, was a child, his dad worked as a police officer in Bridgeview. He also worked part-time as a security guard across the street from the fire department. When work wasn’t busy, Dubik and his dad would cross the street and talk to the firemen.

“I just thought it was the coolest job in the world, being a fireman,” said Dubik. Dubik’s father would ask him, “Are you sure you don’t want to be a policeman?” But Dubik was confident in his plans: “I want to be a fireman.”

Dubik’s first full-time job after he graduated from paramedic school at 19 was with the Brookfield Fire Department. He began working as a firefighterparamedic in 2002, was promoted to lieutenant in 2017, and became a battalion chief in 2021.

Dubik has a bachelor’s degree from Southern Illinois University in Fire Service Administration and a master’s degree from the University of Illinois in Public Administration.

Spending most of his career in Brookfield has been “the best experience,” said Dubik. “We like to see the same people over and over again…We see the growth of the community. Over such a long time, it’s nice to see everybody’s progression, whether it’s employees in the fire department, the employees at the hall, the small business owners. Having the organizational knowledge over time is good for the organization and the residents.”

PROVIDED

Brookfield Interim Fire Chief Matthew Dubik On Jan. 5, Dubik became interim fire chief. One of the biggest adjustments for Dubik and his family (he has a wife and two children) has been adjusting to the Monday through Friday schedule. Since he started working in Brookfield in 2002, Dubik has worked a schedule of one day on and two days off.

Dubik said he is treating his time in the position as an “audition.” Taking on the administrative tasks and responsibilities that make the department run smoothly, Dubik said he now has the opportunity to make the organization what he thinks it should be.

“You get to make those policies and procedures that guide the organization in the direction you want it to, to ultimately provide what you believe to be the best service to the citizens,” he said. “I’m most excited to work with the members of the department on my vision, and then bring that to fruition.”

The best part of taking on this new role, said Dubik, is that “the village manager trusts [me] to take over the organization, and take care of the fire department, which translates into taking care of the village residents.”

GETTING TO KNOW

Matthew Dubik steps up as interim fire chief

2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 7

Government VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD Village Hall 8820 Brookfield Ave. (708) 485-7344 brookfieldil.gov

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Closed Saturday & Sunday Brookfield operates under a village manager form of government. The village manager is appointed by the board of trustees and serves as the administrative head of the government, responsible for administration of all departments. The village president, clerk and six trustees are elected by residents. The board meets the 2nd and 4th Monday each month at 6:30 p.m. at Village Hall.

Village President Michael Garvey mgarvey@brookfieldil.gov

Village Trustees Nicole Gilhooley Jennifer Hendricks Kathryn S. Kaluzny Kit P. Ketchmark Julie Narimatsu Kyle T. Whitehead

Village Clerk Michael G. Meléndez mmelendez@brookfieldil.gov

Village Manager Timothy C. Wiberg twiberg@brookfieldil.gov

Chief of Police Michael Kuruvilla (708) 485-1777 mkuruvilla@brookfieldil.gov

STELLA BROWN

Village Clerk Emily Stenzel swears in newly elected Trustee Joseph Fitzgerald to the Riverside village board on May 1, 2025.

Fire Chief Jim Adams jadams@brookfieldil.gov (708) 485-0076

VILLAGE OF RIVERSIDE Village Offices

Director of Community Development

27 Riverside Road (708) 447-2700

Libby Popovic (708) 485-1113 permits@brookfieldil.gov

Hours: Mon. thru Fri., 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Riverside is a non-home rule municipality. A president and six-member board of trustees serve the village.

The board appoints a manager, who is responsible for the administration of the village. The Board of Trustees meets at 7 p.m. the 1st and 3rd Thursday each month in the Village Hall auditorium.

Director of Parks and Recreation Luke Gundersen (708) 485-1474 brookfield@rectrac.com

Director of Public Works (708) 485-2540 publicworks@brookfieldil. gov

8 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

riverside.il.us

Village President

Douglas Pollock (708) 447-2700 x216

dpollock@riverside.il.us

Board of Trustees

Cristin Evans Joseph Fitzgerald Alexander Gallegos Elizabeth Kos Aberdeen Marsh-Ozga Jill Mateo

Village Manager

Jessica Frances (708) 442-2700 x233 jfrances@riverside.il.us

Special Assistant to Administration and Finance

Emily Stenzel (708) 447-2700 estenzel@riverside.il.us

Public Works Director Dan Tabb (708) 442-3590 dtabb@riverside.il.us

Government Director of Public Safety Matthew Buckley (708) 447-2700 x306 mbuckley@riverside.il.us

Community Development Director Anne Cyran (708) 447-1241 acyran@riverside.il.us

Parks & Recreation Director

Ron Malchiodi rmalchiodi@riverside.il.us (708) 442-7025 x221

TOWNSHIP GOVERNMENT Proviso Township

Proviso Township includes Brookfield north of South-

view Avenue and west of Salt Creek.

Office of the Supervisor

4565 W. Harrison St., Hillside (708) 449-4300 provisotownship.com

Supervisor

Michael A. Corrigan supervisor@provisotownship.illinois.gov

Clerk

Anthony “Tony” Williams

Assessor

Steven J. Zawaski

Trustees

Riverside Township Trustees

COOK COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Riverside Town Hall

27 Riverside Road, Riverside (708) 442-4400

Cook County Board

riversidetownship.org

Supervisor

Vera A. Wilt supervisor@riversidetownship. org

Clerk

Evelyn Chavez Joseph Christopher Tommy Olson Gay F. Chase

Mary Rob Clarke Timothy Heilenbach Kelly Navarro Matthew J. Decosola

Riverside Township includes all of Riverside north of 39th Street, including unincorporated Riverside Lawn and the Hollywood section of Brookfield.

Jay Reyes clerk@riversidetownship.org

Assessor

Mary Jo Miller assessor@riversidetownship.org

Toni Preckwinkle, president 118 Clark St., Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 603-6400 cookcountyil.gov

info@tonipreckwinkle.org

Cook County Commissioner,16th District Frank J. Aguilar District Office

7833 Ogden Ave., Lyons (708) 447-5461 commissionerfrankjaguilar.com

Riverside Township

27 Riverside Road, Riverside | (708) 442-4400 | www.riversidetownship.org Senior Exercise Class Monday / Wednesday / Friday Noon – 1:00 pm 2nd Floor Auditorium Community Resource Center Monday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Tuesday: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm Wednesday: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm Thursday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (708) 853-9578 crc@riversidetownship.org Provides referrals for: Aging Services, Benefits Counseling, Intellectual & Developmental Disability Services, Mental Health Services, and Substance Abuse Services.

Weekly Movie Screening Thursdays – 12:30 pm 1st Floor Services Food Pantry Nurse’s Closet Notary Services General Assistance Emergency Assistance Temporary Handicap Placards Assessor Services (708) 447-7700

Vera A. Wilt, Supervisor Jay Reyes, Clerk | Mary Jo Miller, Assessor Trustees | Mary Rob Clarke, Timothy Heilenbach, Matthew J. Decosola, Kelly Navarro

2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 9

Government

House District 21

STATE GOVERNMENT

Abdelnasser Rashid

(D-Chicago) office@reprashid.com

State Representatives

reprashid.com

District Office

House District 2

6901 W. Cermak Road, Berwyn, IL 60402 (708) 956-7563

Elizabeth “Lisa” Hernandez (D-Cicero)

repehernandez@yahoo.com TODD BANNOR

District Office

6117 W. Cermak Road, Cicero, IL 60804 (708) 222-5240 Springfield Office

109 Capitol Building Springfield, IL 62706 (217) 782-8173

House District 8 La Shawn K. Ford

(D-Chicago)

lashawnkford.com

Springfield Office

242-A Stratton Office Building, Springfield, IL 62706 (217) 782-5280

State Senators

Congressman Danny Davis with State Representative LaShawn Ford and Congressman Davis’s wife Vera (at right) at a press conference on July 31, 2025.

Senate District 1

District Office

(D-Chicago) senator.jcervantes@gmail. com

5500 W. Madison Street, Chicago, IL 60644 (773) 750-0866

10 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

Springfield Office

239-E Stratton Office Building, Springfield, IL 62706 (217) 782-5962

Javier L. Cervantes

senatorcervantes.com

Government District Office

6729 Stanley Ave. 1st Floor, Suite A Berwyn, IL 60402 (773) 869-9050 Springfield Office

Stratton Office Building, Section F, Room K Springfield, IL 62706 (217) 782-9415

Senate District 4

Kimberly A. Lightford

(D-Maywood)

senatorlightford.com District Office

4415 W. Harrison St., Suite 550, Hillside, IL 60162 (708) 632-4500 Springfield Office

309-H Capitol Building, Springfield, IL 62706 (217) 782-8505

Senate District 11

Mike Porfirio (D-Bridgeview) info@senatorporfirio.com senatorporfirio.com District Office

6215 West 79th Street, Suite 1A Burbank, IL 60459 (708) 430-2510 Springfield Office

Stratton Office Building Section F, Room L, Springfield, IL 62706 (217) 782-0054

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT United States Representatives 4th Congressional District

All of Riverside, all of Brookfield

Jesus ‘Chuy’ Garcia

(D-Chicago)

chuygarcia.house.gov

4376 S. Archer Ave., Chicago, IL 60632 (773) 475-0833 125 N. 19th Ave, Suite A Melrose Park, IL 60160 (773) 342-0774 2334 House Office Building

Washington, D.C. 20515 (202) 225-8203

7th Congressional District

North Riverside west of 9th Avenue.

Danny K. Davis

(D-Chicago)

davis.house.gov

2815 W. 5th Ave., Chicago IL 60612 (773) 533-7520 2159 Rayburn House Office Building

Washington, D.C. 20515 (202) 225-5006

U.S. Senators

Richard Durbin

(D-Springfield)

durbin.senate.gov 230 S. Dearborn St., Suite

3892, Chicago, IL 60604 (312) 353-4952

711 Hart Senate Office Building

Washington, D.C. 20510 (202) 224-2152 Tammy Duckworth

(D-Hoffman Estates) duckworth.senate.gov

230 S. Dearborn St., Suite 3900, Chicago, IL 60604 (312) 886-3506 524 Hart Senate Office Building

Washington, D.C. 20510 (202) 224-2854

Best Martinis in Chicagoland

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Blue Water Lounge 9016 W 31st Street Brookfield

2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 11

A

t Brookfield Zoo, mealtime is a numbers game: 2,000 pounds of produce a week, 100 pounds of meat a day and millions of crickets and mealworms every year.

Dr. Jennifer Watts, Brookfield Zoo’s Director of Nutrition, oversees the diets of hundreds of animals, working closely with animal care specialists to make sure every resident, from lions to orangutans gets the right food in the right amounts. When asked how much food the zoo feeds its animals each year and which types make up the largest portions, she responded with the largest portion of food the zoo uses is produce.

“The next largest food items would be meat or fish. For meat, we go through about 100 pounds a day for all of our big cats, especially now that we have

12

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2026 Brookfield/Riverside

Answer Book

our African painted dog puppies.

There are 10 of them, so they eat quite a lot.

And then there’s fish as well— we go through roughly 50 to 60 pounds a day,” Watts said.

Bears are among the zoo’s biggest eaters, particularly during their hyperphagic season in July and August when they prepare for torpor. During this time, they can consume up to 30 pounds of lettuce a day to stay full while keeping their calorie intake in check. The diet is carefully managed to ensure the bears get enough food without overeating.

“At that point, they can eat

up to 30 pounds of lettuce a day.

That’s to make sure they are full while not consuming too many calories. Most of their nutrition comes from bear chow, a complete and formulated diet that provides all the vitamins and minerals they need.

The lettuce is just to help fill them up,” u Watts said.Most animals at the zoo oo do not drastically change their eating ing habits with the seasons, though some me adjustments are made. Bears, both h polar and brown, show significant seasonal changes, and their diets are carefully modified to signal the start of torpor. “For hay, we go through about 3,000 bales a year and each bale weighs around 50 pounds, which adds up to roughly 150,000 pounds. We also use about 160,000 pounds of fish annually. As for bananas, surprisingly, we don’t go through as many as people think. I sometimes get phone calls asking if we have a trailer truck full of bananas, but that’s not the case,” Watts said. The zoo also feeds a large number of insects, as many birds and mammals are insectivorous at some point in their lives. Each year, the zoo goes through roughly 4 million crickets and about 3 million mealworms.

Grocery List 2,000 lbs produce/week 150,000 lbs hay/year 160,000 lbs fish/year 4 million crickets/year 3 million mealworms/year

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2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 13

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RBHS students reading The Clarion newspaper.

The staying power of printed word Nearly a century later, RB’s student newspaper remains popular among students and staff

I

By JACKIE PISANO Contributing Reporter

n today’s digital age where clickbait headlines are king and social media content reigns supreme, it would almost seem unbelievable to argue that print journalism holds any relevance for teenagers in 2026.

But at Riverside Brookfield High School, the students involved with long-time student newspaper, The Clarion, would beg to differ.

In publication for 94 years, The Clarion’s presence at RB remains as strong as ever.

With the student-led publication boast-

ing not only upwards of five print issues, but regular updates to its website, RB’s student journalists continue to prove the staying power of quality journalism.

For English teacher and Clarion advisor Marc Helgeson, The Clarion’s largest point of pride is that the paper is 100 percent student-run.

“I have been surprised many times over that kids still value print journalism, and the students in this course take great care of the paper,” said Helgeson, who has served as the newspaper’s advisor for 11 years. “The expectation is that kids are in

Marc Helgeson speaking to a student about best journalism practices.

THE CLARION, continued on page 16

2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 15

THE CLARION Continued from page 16

class learning the basics of journalism, but they also have many responsibilities outside of class, like doing interviews and taking photographs.”

At RB, The Clarion is operated as a hybrid course/club, where students sign up for a full-year of the class and meet on a daily basis, but are often found in the newsroom before school or after school taking care of business.

At the helm of The Clarion this academic year are seniors Aryan Hernandez, of Brookfield, and Chloe Borkowicz, of La Grange Park. Hernandez, who serves as editor-in-chief, and Borkowicz, who is the general managing editor. Both students have been involved with the paper since freshman year.

What they love most about The Clarion is that the class is a living lab — a feature they find distinctive from other programs at RB. Both Hernandez and Borkowicz

Borkowicz (right) working with a peer to develop publication deadlines. agree with The Clarion, there is an overwhelming sense of pride and ownership over the paper.

“I think The Clarion is a really special class — it’s definitely a comfort class for me,” Borkowicz explained. “There’s no other class that I go into where I just know that I can be completely myself, and I feel like it’s rare to find that in high school.

Whatever source of creativity you have, it can be met here.”

Hernandez says what he enjoys most about The Clarion is the people and the environment they create.

“We get to do everything how we want to do it and how we see fit,” he said. “Hard copy layout is my favorite part of the year because we’re all laughing, talking and working together. There’s a place for everyone here, and it’s just a really special environment for a lot of us.”

Regarding the relevance of print journalism at the school, both Borkowicz and Hernandez agree that at RB, there remains a yearning for local school news and unique peer perspectives on national and global issues.

“I think people really appreciate that in the newspaper, we have every voice shared, whether we feature a specific student or teacher, or in our ‘reacts’ section, where we interview a bunch of students on a specific topic,” Borkowicz said. “I think that for students, reading articles written by their peers is very accessible.”

Hernandez says students and staff alike remain excited and engaged with The

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“A big part of making sure we feature as many types of stories as we can is we have discussions where the entire class is focused on giving their ideas,” he said. “Everyone here knows there is no such thing as a bad article idea. We also really push opinion pieces, including food reviews, and light-hearted stories that really stick with people.”

As for the forecast of The Clarion’s future presence at RB, Hernandez and Borkowicz don’t foresee the paper losing its relevance. In their opinion, the demand for quality news on campus isn’t going away.

“Not everyone is going to want a physical newspaper, but RB is a really supportive community and people really like to see what we do,” Hernandez said. “Actually having tangible hard copies is a lot more personal and human than going online. The future is unpredictable, but I think there’s always still the human part of the hard copies that people enjoy.”

Borkowicz adds that alongside student demand is

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“Our teachers really enjoy the print edition too — I hear a lot of teachers ask when 9219 Broadway Ave. gears2you.com the next hard copy is coming BROOKFIELD, IL 60513 out,” she said. “We also bring Open 6 days a week! them out into the community at libraries and grocery stores, and they tend to go pretty quickly, so I think that there’s definitely positive reactions to our physical copies.”

In leading the students, Helgeson says what he finds the most value in is the true sense of teamwork and camaraderie the students have Large selection of new and Band, Orchestra, Drums, all year long.

Large selection of new and Band, Orchestra, “I love watching the used musical instruments Guitars and Drums, more. used musical instruments Guitars and more. students start as freshmen Large selection of new and Band, Orchestra, Drums, and accessories. and accessories. and matriculate up through used musical instruments Guitars and more. the ranks as editors, and and accessories.

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Schools BrookfieldLaGrange Park School District 95 Administrative Office 3724 Prairie Ave., Brookfield (708) 485-0606 district95.org

Superintendent Ryan Evans

Board of Education Katie Mulcrone Jackie Jordan Elizabeth Loerop Kristin Reingruber Chris Camacho Rachel Novak Rebecca Schreiber

Brook Park Elementary School 1214 Raymond Ave., LaGrange Park (708) 354-3740 Grades: K-5 Kelly King, K-2 Principal kking@district95.org Michael Sorensen, Grades: 3-5 Principal msorensen@district95.org

S.E. Gross Middle School 3524 Maple Ave., Brookfield (708) 485-0600 Grades: 6-8 Lauren Colberg, Principal Dave Parolin, Assistant Principal

Riverside School District 96

3340 S Harlem Ave., Riverside (708) 447-5007 district96.org

TODD BANNOR

Hollywood School students during the Halloween Parade on October 31, 2025.

Superintendent Martha Ryan-Toye ryan-toyem@district96.org

Board of Education Wesley Muirheid Stephanie Basanez Gunn David Barsotti Salina Claps Dan Hunt Marlowe Djuric Kachlic Matt Olech

A.F. Ames Elementary School 86 Southcote Road, Riverside (708) 447-0759 Grades: PreK-5 Todd Gierman, Principal giermant@district96.org

Blythe Park Elementary School 735 Leesley Road., Riverside (708) 447-2168 Grades: PreK-5 Casimira Gorman, Principal gormanc@district96.org

Central Elementary School 61 Woodside Road, Riverside (708) 447-1106 Grades: K-5 Pete Gatz, Principal gatzp@district96.org

Hollywood Elementary School 3423 Hollywood Ave., Brookfield (708) 485-7630

Grades:PreK-5 Dr. Erin Dwyer, Principal

L.J. Hauser Junior High School 65 Woodside Road, Riverside (708) 447-3896 Grades: 6-8 Chris Harvalis, Principal Katherine Kayastha, Assistant Principal

La Grange District 102

Administrative Office 333 N. Park Road, La Grange Park (708) 482-2400 dist102.k12.il.us

2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 19

Schools Superintendent Christopher Covino covinoch@dist102.k12.il.us Board of Education Tiz Lambert Molly Knott Katy McQuiston Cathy Murphy Brian Grogan Joanna Lago Erik Toman

Congress Park School 9311 Shields Ave., Brookfield (708) 215-6007 Grades: K-6 Catherine Rodriguez, Principal Catie Leon, Assistant Principal

Park Junior High School 325 N. Park Road, La Grange Park

(708) 482-2500 Grades: 7-8 Jerome Green, Principal greenje@dist102.k12.il.us Tyler Finley, Assistant Principal campbellly@dist102.k12.il.us

Lyons School District 103

Administrative Office 4100 Joliet Ave., Lyons (708) 783-4100 sd103.com

Superintendent Kristopher Rivera riverak@lyons103.org

Board of Education Jorge Torres Winifred Rodrigez

20 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

Sara Andreas Olivia Quintero Mario Ramirez Slagiana Aleksikj Nancy Miller

Lincoln Elementary School

Christopher Cybulski, Principal cybulskic@lyons103.org Ana Verduzco, Assistant Principal verduzcoa@lyons103.org

Lyons Township High School District 204

4300 Grove Ave., Brookfield (708) 783-4600 Grades: PreK-5 Theresa Silva, Principal silvat@lyons103.org Emelia Zarenana, Assistant Principal zarenanae@lyons103.org

Administration Office 100 S. Brainard Ave., La Grange (708) 579-6300 www.lths.net

George Washington Middle School

Brian Waterman bwaterman@lths.net

8101 Ogden Ave., Lyons (708) 783-4200 Grades: 6-8

Superintendent

Principal Jennifer Tyrrell jtyrrell@lths.net

Schools Board of Education

Otto Rutt, President orutt@fenwickfriars.com John Finan, Principal jfinan@fenwickfriars.com

Tim Albores Jill Beda Daniels Kari Dillon Gioia Giannotti Frye Christine Kozelka Campbell Shawn Kennedy Elias Lopez

Nazareth Academy

Lyons Township High School-North Campus 100 S. Brainard Ave., La Grange (708) 579-6300

Lyons Township High School-South Campus 4900 S. Willow Springs Road, Western Springs (708) 579-6500

Riverside Brookfield High School District 208 Riverside Brookfield High School 160 Ridgewood Road, Riverside (708) 442-7500 rbhs208.net

Superintendent Kevin Skinkis skinkisk@rbhs208.net

Assistant Superintendent Kristin Smetana smetanak@rbhs208.net

Principal Hector Freytas freytash@rbhs208.net

Board of Education Deanna Zalas Lorena Gasca William Durkin

STEVE JOHNSTON

Riverside-Brookfield’s Maria Ellis swims the 100-Yard Butterfly during the Hinsdale Central Girls Sectional swim meet in 2025.

Laura Hruska Carolyn Lach Nicholas Novak Nicholas Caputo Patrick Williams

Private Elementary Schools and Preschools Building Blocks Preschool St. Paul’s Church 60 Akenside Road, Riverside (708) 447-3373 Ages: 3 to 5 years Ann Jablonski, Executive Director

Montessori Children’s Community 3424 Maple Ave., Brookfield (708) 485-9542 montessori-cc.com Ages: 3 to 6 years old

St. Mary School 97 Herrick Road, Riverside (708) 442-5747

stmaryschoolriverside.org Grades: PreK-8 Nicole Nolazco, Principal principal@stmaryriverside.org

St. Paul’s Lutheran School 9035 Grant Ave., Brookfield (708) 485-0650 Grades: K-8 Dave Hall, Headmaster spbrookfield.org

Tallgrass Sudbury School 100 6th Ave., La Grange (708) 328-8546 Melissa Bradford, Board President tallgrasssudbury.org Ages: 5 to 19

Private High Schools Fenwick High School 505 Washington Boulevard, Oak Park (708) 386-0127 fenwickfriars.com

1209 W. Ogden Ave., La Grange Park (708) 354-0061 nazarethacademy.com Deborah Vondrasek Tracy, President dtracy@nazarethacademy.com Therese Uphues Hawkins, Principal thawkins@nazarethacademy.com

Trinity High School 7574 Division St., River Forest (708) 771-8383 trinityhs.org Dr. Tina Taylor-Ritzler, President tritzler@trinityhs.org Amy Gallie, Principal agallie@trinityhs.org

Community Colleges College of DuPage 425 Fawell Boulevard, Glen Ellyn (630) 942-2800 cod.edu Dr. Muddassir Siddiqi, President officeofthepresident@cod.edu

Triton College 2000 5th Ave., River Grove (708) 456-0300 triton.edu Mary-Rita Moore, President president@triton.edu

2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 21

Ryan-Toye reflects on prioritizing the district community throughout her tenure

R

JAMILLA YIPP PHOTOGRAPHY

GETTING TO KNOW

District 96 superintendent reflects on a decade of leadership

By HECTOR CERVANTES Contributing Reporter

eflecting on her decade-long career in District 96, Superintendent of Schools Martha Ryan-Toye said she is most proud of putting students, families, and staff at the center of everything the district does. She joined District 96 in 2016 and has led the district with a steady hand, with her administrative team largely remaining consistent over the years.

Ryan-Toye said this chapter of her career is defined by the honor of serving as a superintendent and continuing a long path in district leadership. She reflected on her 21 years in River Forest District 90, where much of her career was shaped by 16 years as a special education director and additional time in district office roles focused on curriculum and professional development.

Earlier in her career, she also served as a principal and assistant principal in schools supporting students with autism and serious emotional needs.

“Being a superintendent has really been the most exciting part of my career. It’s the opportunity to connect all the puzzle pieces, as I like to say, in terms of what makes a great school district. Children always need to be at the center, but having the trust of the community, the Board of Education and the team of educators is how the work truly gets done,” Ryan-Toye.

A strong, consistent leadership team was key to improving outcomes for students, she said, adding

22 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

Martha Ryan-Toye that her priority was developing leaders to provide lasting stability in District 96.

“Our team is changing a bit and our new leaders are really great. Change is going to occur, but being able to support people and manage that change thoughtfully and carefully is critical. Even with the change, I believe the consistency is still here,” RyanToye said.

Ryan-Toye found it difficult to point to a single accomplishment, but the alignment and stability of the board and leadership team stand out as especially meaningful to her.. The implementation of full-day kindergarten is another point of pride, requiring significant facilities and staffing changes to meet the needs of the community and educators. Navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic is also a defining achievement.

“In all of those efforts, we really put our students and families at the center. Even during the pandemic, we focused on our students, families, and staff. Figuring out how to protect everyone while still providing a successful education for children,” Ryan-Toye said.

Ryan-Toye plans to retire from her role as superintendent in 2027, concluding over a decade of leadership in District 96.

Clubs BROOKFIELD Brookfield Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 38 Brookfield, IL 60513 (708) 268-8080 brookfieldchamber.net The Brookfield Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to the continued growth and revitalization of our business districts, as well as the enhancements of the quality of life for both businesses and residents in Brookfield.

Brookfield Elks Lodge #1510 9022 31st St., Brookfield (708) 387-1510 Elks Lodges bring so much more to their communities than just a building, golf course or pool. They are places where neighbors come together, families share meals, and children grow up.

Brookfield Garden Club brookfieldgardenclub.weebly.com The Brookfield Garden Club meets on the last Saturday of the month at 10 a.m., January through October. Check the website for meeting locations.

Brookfield Historical Society 8820-1/2 Brookfield Ave. (708) 485-7344 brookfieldilhistory.org Preserving the old Prairie Avenue (Grossdale) railroad station is the society’s number one goal. The station also serves as a

STELLA BROWN

Pro bikers during the annual Cycle Brookfield Criterium races on July 23, 2025. museum about Brookfield and the surrounding area.

Tours are available with prior arrangement.

9210 Broadway Ave., Brookfield (708) 485-3439 brookfieldriverside.rotary6450.org Meets every Tuesday at 8 a.m. at The Compassion Factory Art Gallery & Studio, 9210 Broadway Ave.

The Brookfield Women’s Club is devoted to improving area communities with compassion and enthusiasm and supporting area non-forprofit organizations. Their objective is to offer civic, moral and social helpfulness by providing volunteer opportunities for women to better their community and networking opportunities for common goals and mutual interests.

Brookfield Women’s Club

Brookfield Aging Well Team

Rotary Club of Brookfield-Riverside

brookfieldwomensclub@ gmail.com brookfieldwomensclub.com

brookfieldagingwell@gmail.com www.facebook.com/ brookfieldagingwell/

Brookfield’s neighborhood program of Aging Care Connections and Village of Brookfield’s Parks and Recreation Commission provides a Senior Resource Guide and creates events for seniors throughout the year.

Cycle Brookfield cyclebrookfield.com Cycle Brookfield is a 501c3 not-for-profit advocacy group with a mission to make cycling, walking and driving safe and enjoyable for all. The group encourages all cyclists to wear helmets and light up their bikes.

2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 23

Clubs

Hollywood Citizens Association

3435 Hollywood Ave, Brookfield (708) 387-9113 hollywoodcitizensassociation.org/ Meetings are at 7 p.m. at the Hollywood Community House on the second Monday of every month, excluding December, July and August.

The group works to maintain and preserve the Hollywood Community House and support Hollywood Elementary School and the Hollywood neighborhood.

Sokol Spirit 3909 Prairie Ave., Brookfield (708) 485-9663 sokolspirit.org Sokol offers physical training in gymnastics and other athletics, as well as providing Czech cultural and family oriented activities.

Visit their website for information and a calendar of events. Their hall is also available for rent.

Veterans of Foreign Wars, Joshua W. Harris Memorial Post #2868 Shawn Ligeikis, Commander 8844 Ogden Ave., Brookfield (708) 485-9670 facebook.com/Brookfield.VFW.2868 Meetings are the first Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m.

RIVERSIDE American Association of University Women Diane Balin, President riverside-il.aauw.net The Riverside Branch of the AAUW sponsors programs,

PROVIDED BY ALEX GALLEGOS

The Riverside Township Lions Club hosted a Star Wars dinner on May 4 in Riverside Township Hall. lectures, community events and activities, cultivating the intellectual and personal development of women and girls. New members welcome. See website for more information.

Frederick Law Olmsted Society Dan Murphy, president PO Box 65 Riverside, Illinois 60546 Olmsteadsociety.org The Frederick Law Olmsted Society is dedicated to sustaining Olmsted’s vision for Riverside for generations to come. Its members are guided by his concern for humanity, nature, sense of community and the innovative and thoughtful essence of his work. The Olmsted Society invites residents and visitors to join in learning, protecting the environment, and preserving Riverside’s cultural and physical heritage.

24 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

Lyric Opera of Chicago, Riverside Chapter lyricopera.org/chapters Learn more about opera within the community and support the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Runs an annual bridge marathon to benefit the Lyric. New members welcome.

Riverside Masonic Lodge #862 Riverside Masonic Temple, 40 Forest Ave. (708) 447-9628 facebook.com/riverside862 afam/ 862-il.ourlodgepage.com/ Meets on the first and third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m.

Riverside Arts Center Ann Filmer, Executive Director 32 E. Quincy St. (708) 442-6400 riversideartscenter.com

The RAC provides Riverside and surrounding communities with art classes, exhibitions and special events. Their clay studio features one of the largest kilns in the state. The Freeark Contemporary Art Gallery offers frequently changing exhibits.

Riverside Chamber of Commerce (708) 288-9992 www.facebook.com/Riverside ChamberofCommerce/ chamberriverside@gmail.com Bringing local businesses together for networking.

Riverside Junior Woman’s Charity 27 Riverside Rd. (708) 447-5869 Danielle Hoffman, President president@riversidejuniors.org www.facebook.com/RJWC RiversideJuniors/ Riversidejuniors.org

Clubs

Riverside Junior Woman’s Charity (RJWC) strives to build a stronger community by fostering friendships among neighbors, addressing the needs of others and improving the quality of life in the township and surrounding areas. New members welcome.

Riverside Little League P.O. Box 3 David Halvorsen, President info@riversidell.com Riversidell.com Baseball and softball programs for boys and girls, ages 5-15. The league is operated by volunteers.

More coaches, umpires and sponsors are always welcome.

Riverside Police Auxiliary 27 Riverside Road (708) 447-9191 riverside.il.us/230/Police-AuxiliaryOfficers The Riverside Police Auxiliary is made up of Riverside area residents interested in law enforcement. The auxiliary supplements the regular police department with additional manpower on a monthly and as-needed basis. For information, or to volunteer, contact the Riverside Police Department.

Riverside Swim Club Paul Lendman, President 100 Bloomingbank Road

(708) 447-6134 riversideswimclub.org The Riverside Swim Club (RSC) is a private club founded over 50 years ago by the residents of the community. RSC offers various aquatics programs including swim team, swim lessons and water polo.

The club also offers a snack bar, locker room amenities and a sports court. Visit the website for membership.

Riverside Township Lions Club Eric Sundstrum, Membership Coordinator (708) 209-0467 https://e-clubhouse.org/sites/ riversidetownship/index.php

The club conducts a variety of community and humanitarian projects.

Meetings are held the third Thursday of the month at 6:00 p.m. at Riverside Township Hall, 27 Riverside Rd.

Riverside Township Senior Services Riverside Township Hall, 27 Riverside Road (708) 442-4400 Call for information about services including taxpayer advocacy, medical equipment lending library, handicap placards, senior transit cards, exercise classes, movie screenings, and more.

MISSION STATEMENT The Olmsted Society is dedicated to sustaining Olmsted's vision for Riverside for generations to come. Its members are guided by his concern for humanity, nature, sense of community & innovative and thoughtful essence of his work. The Society invites residents & visitors to join us in learning, protecting the environment & preserving our cultural & physical heritage.

ACTIVITIES/EVENTS January Annual Meetings, Landscape Workdays, Earth Day/Arbor Day celebrations, Walking Tours, Vintage Baseball games, Hop Stop craft beer festivals, Spooktacular ghost tours, Olmsted Collection at the Riverside Public Library, and Tributes & Trees recognition program.

Stewards of the land and Olmsted’s Plan

Please join us today!

DUES $35 a year and tax deductible. Members receive a quarterly e-newsletter and discounts on events (Hop Stop, walking tours, and Spooktacular tours).

olmstedsociety.org |

OlmstedSociety |

Olmstedsociety 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 25

Audience size for Dancing with the Chamber is around 500 people, making it a significant event for both performers and spectators.

Brookfield’s Dancing with the Chamber puts local residents in the spotlight

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SWAY DANCE CHICAGO

CREDIT

Local dance studio brings Latin ballroom and swing to Brookfield residents

By Hector Cervantes Contributing Reporter

B

Modeled after “Dancing with the Stars”, the event pairs first-time dancers with professional instructors and features a variety of dance styles choreographed by Teresa Swanson, owner of Sway Dance Chicago and Brookfield resident. While the competition crowns a winner, the focus remains on community connection, personal growth and stepping outside one’s comfort zone.

“It’s a competition, but it’s a very friendly competition. We try to break up the dances so all 10 dancers perform different styles. That’s why it’s such a nice variety of a show. There are three judges.

I’m one of them,” Swanson said.

rookfield’s Dancing with the Chamber returns March 21, bringing 10 local business owners and community members to the stage for a friendly, high-energy dance competition.

Rehearsals for Dancing with the Chamber kick off weeks before the March 21 performance.

26 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

Sway Dance Chicago opened in 2010

When asked what makes Dancing with the Chamber different from other dance or fundraising events, especially for people who have never danced before, Swanson said that the key is that none of the competitors are dancers.

“To perform in front of 500 people, learn a dance, and follow through to really accomplish something like that is

as Your Neighborhood Realtor in our

SWAY DANCE CHICAGO

A winner is crowned at the 2025 Dancing with the Chamber event.

communities. No one knows or loves

including popular styles like salsa, bachata, swing, and tango. The classes, available as six-week group sessions or private lessons, are designed for dancers of all experience levels.

“Sway Dance Chicago is the dance studio I own in the city, and it opened in 2010. I live in Brookfield, so for years I was just renting space from local businesses and teaching here and there. Finally, I really wanted to have my own space in Brookfield, where I live. I still have my studio in the city, but my teachers there are really taking over, which allows me to spend more time out here,”

seeking the right home or looking for

complish something like that is pretty amazing. It’s a huge challenge, like I said, to step outside your comfort zone and really push yourself to try something new,” Swanson said.

Swanson explains that participants learn the skill of dancing, which adds to their lives.

Many from previous years have continued taking her classes and are still dancing, which she finds exciting. The experience sparks their interest, helping them stay active and accomplish something significant Sway Dance Chicago recently expanded to Brookfield with a new studio offering Latin ballroom and swing classes,

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tomorrow and into the future. and We’ve been right across from the zoo, tomorrow into the here, future. been here, right across from the With Cantata’s continuum of care, you can liveWe’ve your best lifetoday, today, With Cantata’s continuum of care, you can live your best life for more than a century passionately servingpassionately the needs of local seniors. for more than a century serving the needs of local seniors tomorrow and into the We’veWe’ve beenbeen here, right from tomorrow andfuture. into the future. here, rightacross across from thethe zoo,zoo, Tour campus today! for a more thanour a passionately century passionately serving the needs of of local Tour 10-acre campus today! for our more10-acre than century serving the needs localseniors. seniors.

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Scan Scan here Scan here to vis to visit to visit Canta Cantata.org Cantata.org SWAY DANCE CHICAGO Scan here Independent Living•Assisted Living•Memory Support Independent Living•Assisted Living•Memory Support to visit Independent Living•Assisted Living•Memory Support Participants take a bow in the 2025 Dancing with the Chamber Short-Term Rehab•Long-Term Care•HomeCare•Home Cantata.org Short-Term Rehab•Long-Term Care Short-Term Rehab•Long-Term Care•Home Care Care event.

Independent Living•Assisted Living•Memory Support 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 27 Short-Term Rehab•Long-Term Care•Home Care

C f

Welcome to the Brookfield Chamber of Commerce!

T

he Brookfield Chamber of Commerce is entering its 72nd year of dedication to the continued growth and revitalization of our business districts. We advocate at a local and state level to give businesses a unified voice, working to promote pro-business policies.

The chamber provides valuable networking opportunities and resources to the regional business community.

2026 launches a new membership platform for the chamber allowing businesses to choose the tier that best serves their needs.

Each tier has been curated to give additional representation, marketing and event sponsorship to our members. It allows both the chamber and the businesses to plan strategic marketing. Membership instantly plugs your business into the community calendar for the year. We know that small businesses support each other. Chamber membership goes beyond lunch networking- members gain access to our

local preferred business list with the ability to market and connect directly with your fellow members. We are here to provide resources and information that helps your business grow and serve the community at large.

Brookfield is home to a diverse business community. From established mom and pop businesses to new entrepreneurs and services, each storefront and online brand has unique needs. Our mission is to leverage our relationships to give those many businesses of Brookfield a voice to be heard and grow.

We are sending a personal invitation to all businesses- whether current members or not, whether they are in Brookfield or the surrounding communities, whether they have been in business for many years or are newcomers here to be part of the process of making Brookfield and our surrounding communities THRIVE together.

Chamber’s Board of Directors is made up of the following business owners: Brian Sharenow (President)

Gina Sharenow

Stafa Amin

FMG EVENTS

BROOKFIELD FARMERS MARKET

John Dumas (Vice President)

Annette Pardun

SEBASTIAN’S ALE & WHISKEY HOUSE

SHARE FOOD SHARE LOVE FOOD PANTRY

Clara D’Onofrio (Treasurer) BROOKFIELD ACADEMY FOR MINI MUSICIANS

Anne Clark (Administrator)

28 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

FILL MY JAR

Teresa Swanson SWAY DANCE - CHICAGO

Wendy Moore DAISY’S BAKERY & TREATS

Julia Hamilton JUST WALLPAPER

Lizzy McKenna MAMA BARONE’S PIZZA

Kelly Thompson SHOP & STYLE HOUSE SALON

• • • • •

e!

Save the Date

Street D FARMER’S MARKET: June 10, 2 DID YOU KNOW? 5 pm - 11 • Strengthens the local economy by 9200circulating Block within of Broadway Ave keeping dollars

Check out the details online for each membership option:

• COMMUNITY BUILDER • COMMUNITY CONNECTOR • COMMUNITY CULTIVATOR • COMMUNITY CHAMPION • COMMUNITY CORNERSTONE

UPCOMING 2026 EVENTS*: • Senior Social • Brookfield Dancing with the Chamber

• Grand Blvd Summer Block Parties • Friday Concerts in the Park

• National Night Out

• Brookfield Witch Crawl

• Brookfield Arts Festival

• Illinois #1 Farmers Market

• Classic Car Show

• Brookfield Kris Kringle Market

*Visit Brookfieldchamber.net for dates & information

our community • Run by the Brookfield Chamber of Commerce • Number 1 farmers market in IL • 80+ vendors including live music and food trucks • 2000+ visitors • Chamber Membership gets a discount to be a market vendor

Farmers Ma Every Satu June 3 - Octobe 8 am - 1 Village Celebrating nearly two8820 decadesBrookfield of Ave serving the Brookfield community as a vibrant gathering place for fresh food, local business, and connection. Beyond being a fresh marketplace, the market encourages youth involvement with a dedicated Young Entrepreneurs program for vendors under 16. The market offers programs like SNAP/Link Match to make fresh food accessible to more families.

Join us for fresh flavors in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere with live music, special theme days, and seasonal activities.

Classic Car & Bike S July 23, 2 9 am 3700 Block of Grand B

National Night August 1, 2 5 pm - 7 pm Ehlert

Join us for Dancing with the Chamber March 21, 2026

The Brookfield Farmers Market runs Saturdays, June 6th through October 31st, 2026, from 8am to 1pm.

Fine Arts Fes September 20, 2 10 am - 3 pm Kiwanis

60 to Win Draw Tickets on Sale July 5, 2 Drawing Begins September 14, 2

BROUGHT TO YOU BY: 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 29

The arts grow in Riverside and Brookfield There’s a place for everyone interested in joining the Riverside and Brookfield arts scene

R

COMPASSION FACTORY

A group of youth work on collages during open art at Compassion Factory.

30 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

RIVERSIDE ARTS CENTER/FACEBOOK

By ELIZABETH SHORT Contributing Reporter

iverside and Brookfield are the site of growing arts scenes and home to many artists, both professional and amateur. A number of local organizations exist to support community members who are interested in viewing the arts, joining a community of artists, or becoming more creative.

The Riverside Arts Center is a “space for lifelong learning and creativity,” said executive director Ann Filmer. The arts center also has two galleries, a studio for classes, a ceramics studio, and an outdoor garden where they host events. The center offers a full arts education program for children, teens, adults, and seniors. Exhibits, which are always free and open to the public, feature art primarily from artists based in Illinois and the Chicago area. Every year, the center displays a collection produced by students at Riverside Brookfield High School as well as a members show featuring pieces submitted by members of the arts center.

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Gallery viewers explore a special exhibit of art focusing on animals at Compassion Factory.

The Compassion Factory in the 8 Corners District of Brookfield is part of the village’s growing arts scene. The Compassion Factory has an arts studio that hosts classes for all ages and “open studio” arts nights. They also have a gallery space which displays exhibits from both established and amateur artists. The 8 Corners District in Brookfield has especially become a hub of the growing arts presence in the area. In the fall of 2025, nine pieces of public art by community members went up at the Brookfield Shops business incubator project.

Grey Phoenix Art Studio, a new arts space in Brookfield, is set to open this February. The Brookfield Fine Arts Fest celebrates the community’s creativity every year. Starts with Art provides financial assistance to children and teens in the Chicago area to pursue the arts. For crafters, FACEBOOK the Linda Sokol Francis Grey Phoenix Art Studio Brookfield Library has a makerspace with maker technology including a Cricut machine, a 3d printer, and sewing and embroidery machines.

For those interested in the performing arts, Sway Dance recently opened for dance classes and the Brookfield Theater Corporation has plans to convert an old auto repair shop into the Strand Theater.

For people looking to looking to get involved in the local arts community, Filmer said her advice would be to get out to different galleries and to just meet people. “Attend art openings, attend music shows, pop up art shows. It’s just really important to show up, because when you’re meeting people face to face, that’s how you connect.”

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Your Guide to Local Businesses and Services in Riverside A curated list of Riverside Chamber of Commerce members serving our community.

We’re grateful to our community for supporting local businesses. In turn, Riverside Chamber members give back through their time, financial support, and involvement in local schools, community causes, and shared traditions across Riverside and our surrounding communities. In 2025, that included celebrating the Riverside Chamber of Commerce’s 50th anniversary Holiday Stroll and being part of the village-wide Sesquicentennial celebrations.

Eat and Drink

Real Estate Professionals

Buckledown Brewing La Barra Riverside Foods The Chew Chew & Sawmilly

Health, Wellness, and Fitness Athletico Centre Physical Therapy Every Single Day (ESD) Basketball In Motion Counseling Next Level Wellness of Riverside Orland Family Dental Pillars Community Health The Tree House Way Back Inn

Retail and Specialty Shops

Home, Auto, and Local Services J Andersen Construction Jeff’s Auto Garage Landmark Design Inc Metal Mites Riverside Garage Riverside Plumbing Heating Cooling Inc Wright Services Corp.

Star Buds Riverside Wixs on Northwood

Professional and Financial Services

Personal and Creative Services

Adam Doe Insurance Agency Begbie Wealth Advisors Chris Straney, Aflac Insurance First American Bank Fullerton Tax Planning Mike Adelsbach State Farm New American Funding Mortgage Northwood Oaks Investments Riverside Bank, A Wintrust Bank

D’Works, Inc. Le Village Cowork Old Route 66 Rosie’s Tailor Shop & Cleaners Salon D’Amore Salon Elia Sophia’s Cleaning Service

Legal Services Holzauer Law Joseph Dvorak Law Office Law Offices of Melinda Higgins Brom Palermo Law Group

Amy Regan Realty • @properties Christie’s International Real Estate Baird & Warner La Grange Burlington @properties Century 21 Circle Westchester Michelle Galindo, Baird & Warner Real Estate Pelton Collaborative Real Estate, Sarah & Arrick Pelton • @properties Christie’s International Real Estate Rory & Partners Real Estate • Keller Williams The Sheila Gentile Group, Coldwell Banker Realty

Arts, Culture, and Community Organizations Brookfield Chamber of Commerce Brookfield Zoo Clarendon Courier, Inc. Comic Collector The Frederick Law Olmsted Society of Riverside Knights of Columbus Le Village Cowork, Old Route 66 Riverside Arts Center Riverside Farmer’s Market Riverside Historical Museum Riverside Junior Woman’s Charity Riverside Masonic Lodge #862 Riverside Public Library Riverside Rocks Riverside Township St. Paul VI Parish

Interested in getting involved?

Scan the QR to learn more about the Riverside Chamber of Commerce.

The Riverside Chamber of Commerce connects local businesses, supports our community, and helps Riverside thrive.

32 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

Local spots offer Mocktail options An adventure in juices, non-alcoholic spirits and good humor

Amaretto sour at La Barra

I

By RISÉ SANDERS-WEIR Eats Reporter

n honor of those who wish to partake in not partaking, I went on a bar crawl around the area to see what I would get served when asking for a non-alcohol drink. The results were positive, except for one bar which declined to participate. They know their clientele!

At Marlins on Pershing in Lyons, bartender Brenda Mendoza met my request with a raised eyebrow that said she was up to the challenge. Though they don’t have an official mocktail menu, she whipped up a pineapple sour and a pineapple sunrise.

Both had lemonade and pineapple juice.

The sunrise added a splash of grenadine that, I thought, balanced the sweet and sour in a very pleasant way.

La Barra in Riverside actually does have a “zero-proof and mocktail” menu. I chose an amaretto sour, made with Lyre’s Amaretti (the company has a whole line of nonalcohol spirits). It was paired with lemon juice, simple syrup, bitters and fee foam (had to look this up – it’s a plant-based alterative to egg white foam). The drink was elegant, balanced with a tinge of bite at the end. Just how I like it.

MOCKTAIL, continued on page 34

Marlins’ pineapple sour and pineapple sunrise | PHOTOS BY RISÉ SANDERS-WEIR 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 33

Sawa’s Old Warsaw Authentic Polish-American Smorgasbord

Restaurant • Lounge • Banquets • Dine In • Carry Out • Catering & Delivery

www.SawasOldWarsaw.com

Open for Dinner Tuesday - Saturday 11-8pm • Rent our Banquet Rooms!

• Clubs, Group Meeting Rooms are Open!

• Call for more information Parties of 6 or more Adults will have 15% Gratuity added to check

Catrina Tequila Bar’s Serpiente Emplumada

M O C K TA I L Continued from page 33

Must be 21 or older to game. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) or text “GAMB” to 833234. Individuals can enroll in the IGB Self-Exclusion Program at all of the IGB offices located at all casinos. Additional information can be found at https://www.igb.illinois.gov/selfexclusion.

9200 W. Cermak Road • Broadview • 708.343.9040

to learn more

Get to Know Us.....Before You Need Us Information & Assistance Caregiver Support Meal Programs Adult Protective Services Aging In Place Support Case Management Educational/Fitness/Social programs Benefits Assistance

AgingCareConnections.org | 708-354-1323 34 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

Across the street at Catrina Tequila Bar the vibe is Day of the Dead and dead-serious liquor. After discussing what could be transformed into a solid non-alcohol drink, I opted for a virgin version of their Serpiente Emplumada, which blended lime juice, fresh-muddled mint leaves, jalapeno, cucumber and ginger beer. The copper mug was rimmed with Tajin. The smokiness of mescal was missing, but the overall flavor was a spicy delight.

Guinness 0.0 at Zubar

Zubar’s cranberry spritz The last stop was Zubar and Grill in Brookfield. Again, my request was met with humor and can-do attitude. The bar’s stocks were a bit low, due to the recent raucous Bears v.

Packers game, but bartender Tracy Smith was game to give it a go. She poured a cranberry, lime concoction with a splash of lemon-lime soda. While there I also tried Guinness 0.0 beer. Typically, near beer doesn’t do it for me. But if you hold your head sideways and squint, you might not even notice this one is lacking anything.

The life-long Riverside resident has a career based in serving local communities in police and fire departments

W

By ELIZABETH SHORT Contributing Reporter

hen he was in high school, life-long Riverside resident and village Public Safety Director Matt Buckley worked as a security officer at Brookfield Zoo. While working this job, he tried to help a kid who was choking on a peanut, unable to breathe and turning blue.

Another security officer ran over, performed mouthto-mouth on the child, and blew the peanut into his lungs. The child was rushed to the hospital where he underwent surgery. A week later, the child returned to the zoo again to thank the officers.

This event “really helped set my course,” said Buckley. “It showed the need to have people trained to have quick responses.” Seeing the positive impacts of this work “is truly gratifying,” he said. “It really makes a big difference. If we wouldn’t have been there, I don’t know what the results would have been.”

Dreaming of being a police officer, Buckley graduated from Lewis University with a degree in criminal justice. The law enforcement field was especially competitive in the late-80s, however, so Buckley took a job with the Riverside fire department after graduation. A decade later, he also started working for the Lyons police department.

Buckley began working full-time as the Riverside

PROVIDED

Riverside Public Safety Director Matt Buckley PROVIDED

Fire Chief in 2018, and in 2021 he became the village’s first Public Safety Director. In this role, he oversees the police and fire departments; “Basically I’m the fire chief and the police chief,” he said.

“One of the reasons why I like what I do is there isn’t a normal day,” said Buckley. He will visit schools when they are in session, go through the previous day’s reports, attend meetings, and go on fire and EMS calls when needed. Buckley meets with officers, village leaders, and residents to ensure questions are answered, issues are fixed, and responsibilities are fulfilled.

The people of Riverside motivate Buckley to continue his work. “We’re here to serve them,” he said. “We’re here to help them. Unfortunately, people call us sometimes in their worst time of need…We’re able to get there and help them out.

So, to me, that’s probably the best part.”

Having lived in Riverside for “56 and a half years,” the community “means a lot to me,” said Buckley.

“I live in town. So, to me, everybody is a neighbor, which is why we take great pride in helping everybody as much as we can…My ears are always open to what’s going on out there.”

GETTING TO KNOW

Everybody is a neighbor to Public Safety Director Matt Buckley

2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 35

Food & Drink Gosia’s Coffee Shop

BROOKFIELD

8836 Brookfield Ave.

Mama Barone’s Pizza

(708) 255-5418 facebook.com/gosiascoffee/ Coffee, tea, smoothies, specialty lattes, frappes and scratch-made bakery.

9209 Broadway Ave.

(708) 485-4300 baronesbrookfield.com Pizza, pasta, chicken, ribs and sandwiches.

Healthy Empire

Beach Ave BBQ

3743 Prairie Ave.

3453 Grand Boulevard

(331) 290-3246 instagram.com/healthy_empire_ Protein bar serving fruit smoothies, smoothie bowls, waffles and more healthy eats.

(708) 446-6867 beachavebbq.com Handcrafted BBQ brisket, ribs, chicken, pulled pork, hot links and more.

Blue Water Lounge

Irish Times Pub & Restaurant

9016 31st St.

(708) 485-9287

8869 Burlington Ave.

facebook.com/

(708) 485-8787 irishtimespub.com Full bar and Irish pub fare.

Available for parties and larger gatherings.

bluewaterloungebrookfield Full service bar featuring 100 martinis. Daily drink specials.

Broadway Pancake House 9215 Broadway Ave. (708) 485-4609

order.toasttab.com/online/broadway-pancake-house-brookfield More than just pancakes, this casual family dining spot is open for breakfast and lunch.

Brookfield Breakfast 3755 Grand Boulevard (708) 905-5960

brookfieldbreakfast.com Breakfast and lunch made with fresh ingredients. Daily special that include a touch of Mexican dishes.

Cordial Inn

MAMA BARONE’S PIZZA/FACEBOOK

Mama Barone’s Pizza

Daisy’s Treats and Bakery

Dunkin’

3748 Grand Boulevard

9208 Ogden Ave.

(708) 255-5771

daisystreatsbakery.com Ice cream, cakes and treats.

Danny’s Italian Pizza & Beef 9123 Ogden Ave.

(708) 387-7730 Pizza, pasta and sandwiches.

9207 31st St.

Dunav Restaurant

facebook.com/thecordialinn Full service bar. Don’t miss the burgers.

(708) 255-5218 Serbian cuisine, soup and daily specials.

(708) 485-9753

8801 Ogden Ave.

36 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

(708) 485-1117 Donuts, bagels, breakfast sandwiches, coffee.

Fill My Jar 3726 Prairie Ave.

(708) 905-5555 fillmyjar.com Handcrafted, small-batch candies.

Fine Thai 9305 Ogden Ave. (708) 387-9082

finethaimenu.com Thai noodles, curry, rice and seafood dishes, with a handful of Chinese options.

Imperial Oak Brewing 9526 Ogden Ave.

(708) 255-5452 imperialoakbrewing.com Small brewery with focus on imperial strength and barrel-aged brews with a changing variety of styles.

Joe’s Saloon 9220 47th St.

(708) 485-9640 Full-service bar in a classic roadhouse building.

La Cabanita 9438 Ogden Ave.

(708) 387-9100 lacabanita.com Mexican cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Beer and wine.

Food & Drink Little Owl Social Pub

Mr. Submarine

3747 Grand Blvd.

9016 47th St.

(708) 255-5445 littleowlbrookfield.com Upscale Midwestern pub food, craft beer, and classic arcade games.

Loca Mocha Cafe 8858 Burlington Ave. (inside the train station)

(708) 485-7990 facebook.com/p/Loca-Mocha-CafeInc-100063747242250 Coffee, smoothies, specialty drinks and pastries.

Mary’s Morning Mix Up 9110 Broadway Ave.

(708) 387-0552 marysmorningmixup.com Extensive breakfast and lunch menu.

(708) 485-0599 mrsubmarine.com/brookfield Sandwiches, salads.

Off Broadway Pub 9048 Monroe Ave. (708) 485-4553 offbroadwaypub.com Full bar also serving pizza,

pasta, ribs, sandwiches and

hot wings.

Paisan’s Pizzeria 3720 Grand Blvd.

(708) 485-6833 paisanspizza.com Thin crust, deep dish and

BURGERS,

9207 W 31st Street, Brookfield • 708-485-9753

BEERS, & CHEERS

M-Th 7am-1:30am • Fri-Sat 7am-2:30am • Sun 11am-1:30am 9207 W 31st Street, Brookfield • 708-485-9753 M-Th 7am-1:30am • Fri-Sat 7am-2:30am • Sun 11am-1:30am

Sicilian style pizza, chicken,

ribs, pasta and sandwiches.

LITTLE OWL SOCIAL PUB

Chicken sandwich and fries at the Little Owl Social Pub 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 37

Food & Drink Phil’s Sports Bar & Grill

8901 Burlington Ave. (708) 485-9528 facebook.com/PhilsSBG Full bar also serving appetizers, soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches and chili.

Pub 78

3733 Grand Blvd.

(708) 255-5542 pub78.com Neighborhood sports bar featuring pub food and live music.

Ryan’s Public House

8942 Ogden Ave. (708) 485-7400 ryanspublichouse.com Irish pub serving appetizers, pub classics, soup, sandwiches, chili and daily specials.

Taco Stop

9304 Ogden Ave. (708) 485-5884 Standard Mexican fare featuring tacos, burritos, tortas and weekly specials.

Taqueria El Grande

9132 31st St. (708) 854-6030 Authentic Mexican food includes tacos, sopes, gorditas, burritos and more.

Tony’s Breakfast Cafe 8900 Ogden Ave. (708) 387-0155 tonysofbrookfield.com

Despite the name, Tony’s is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Extensive menu.

Zubar and Grill

8436 Brookfield Ave. (708) 485-4504 Mom’s homemade cooking. Full service bar.

RIVERSIDE Catrina Tequila Bar

7 Longcommon Rd (708) 853-7192 facebook.com/CatrinaTequilaBar Tequilas and cocktails with a Latin flair.

The Chew Chew

33 E. Burlington St. (708) 447-8781 thechewchew.com Casual contemporary American cuisine, including oysters, appetizers, salads, flatbreads, burgers, pasta, fish, seafood, steaks and chops.

Good wine list. Full bar.

Cubanito Express #2

3222 Harlem Ave. (708) 777-1416 cubanitoexpress.com Signature pressed sandwiches, salads, empanadas and Cuban coffee. Open breakfast, lunch, dinner. Carryout focused.

Dulce Mami Cafe

1 Riverside Road (708) 777-1233 dulcemamicafe.com Mexican cafe and pastries, Mexican breakfasts, soups, assorted crepe dishes, paninis and more.

Sebastian’s Ale & Whiskey House

8900 Fairview Ave. (708) 255-5933 sebastianshouse.com Sports-centric establishment with 56 drafts, 350 whiskeys and chef-inspired menu. UFC, boxing, football and more on 35 screens.

Empanadus

Skadarliya

7 E. Burlington St. (708) 442-5002 empanadus.com Choose from a wide selection of empanadas — an Argentinian specialty featuring a flaky pastry crust filled with everything from beef to pork, ham, cheese, sausage, onions, spinach and more. Don’t forget the chimichurri sauce.

Slager’s on 47th

El Faro #2

9237 Ogden Ave. (708) 905-5919 skadarliya.com Balkan cuisine, a mix of many cultures and influences 9308 47th St. (708) 387-0317 slagerson47th.com Full bar, drink specials, pizza, appetizers and snacks, video gaming

CUBANITO EXPRESS

Sandwich at Cubanito Express

38 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

3422 Harlem Ave. (708) 777-1347 elfaro2.business.site Home of famous giant burritos, tacos and other traditional Mexican dishes.

Food & Drink

Golden Wok Restaurant Golden Restaurant

1122 N. Maple - 17th Ave. LaGrange Park • 708-354-3930 www.wok138.com Finest Cantonese & Mandarin Food at reasonable prices.

Finest Cantonese Indoor and Mandarin at reasonable prices.

Dining Food is Back!

TUES - SUNDAY: NOON - 8PM • CLOSED MONDAYS

MON-THU:11AM-9PM • FRI & SAT 11:00AM-9:30PM • SUN: NOON-9PM

Dining Room Is •Currently Closed CARRY-OUT • DELIVERY goldenwokcuisine.com

WE ARE OPEN FOR CARRY-OUT & DELIVERY Serving the community for 29 years!

Serving the community for 29 years!

LA ESTANCIA

Serving the community 1031 Lake Street, Oak Park for 31 years!

Serving the community for (708) 445-9032 | khyberpassrestaurant.com

Tacos at La Estancia

La Barra

2 E. Burlington St. (708) 887-7700 labarrariverside.com Italian entrees, awardwinning pizza and an extensive wine list.

La Estancia

25 Forest Ave. (708) 530-1830 Serving tacos, burritos, tortas, quesadillas, sopes, tamales, tostadas, gorditas, horchata, margaritas and more.

London Ice Cream Shop

38 East Ave. (708) 853-7109 Sweet treats including ice cream, banana splits, macaroons, cakes and sundaes.

Michael’s Pancake House 25 E. Burlington St. (708) 442-1251 michaelspancakehouseil.com

Always open for breakfast and brunch, serving American traditional food.

Quincy Street Distillery

39 E. Quincy St. (708) 357-7414 quincystreetdistillery.com Artisanal spirits including bourbon, gin, rye whiskey and vodka hand-crafted onsite.

Tours by appointment.

Sawmilly

35 E. Burlington St. (708) 265-2670 sawmilly.com Hand-crafted sandwiches, stuffed potatoes, salads, sides, sweets, craft beer, wine and natural sodas.

White Fence Farm

3704 S. Harlem Ave. (708) 447-9325 whitefencefarm-il.com Fried chicken, shrimp, sides. Carry out only.

1031 Lake Street, Oak Park (708) 445-9032 | khyberpassrestaurant.com

Protect your family, friends and/or loved ones assets - ask us how!

1031 Lake Street, Oak P (708) 445-9032 | khyberpassres

708�485�2000 One of our Pre-Need Specialists will answer all of your questions and offer the best options based on your wishes.

Proud to serve and support our community now and for generations to come!

Contemporary Amenities and Offerings with Traditional founder based charm!

Your Assets are Safe 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 39

A cozy date night out Low stress and low cost, just might get the sparks flying

A

By RISÉ SANDERS-WEIR Eats Reporter

fancy dinner out is romantic, but a cozy night out has its own sort of appeal. These three restaurants might be labeled as one for him, one for her and one for everyone.

No matter where you go, you are sure to be well fed and the drag on your wallet won’t bring you down to earth.

At Cordial Inn, 9207 31st Street in Brookfield, they’ve been grilling burgers for more than 80 years, according to the owner Joe Kenny. He’s been in charge since buying the business in 2022 but he didn’t touch the menu.

“One of the things when we took it over was just don’t screw it up,” Kenny said. “It was just an incredible, simple, simple menu. We cut the vegetables fresh each day, and our burgers come from a small company.”

The flame-grilled burgers ($8.75) come topped with American cheese, onion, tomato and lettuce. Pickles ride on the side and mayo, mustard and

Cordial Inn’s venerable hamburger 40 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

RISÉ SANDERS-WEIR

Dulce Mama’s churro pancakes ketchup are provided. Hot dogs, a pork chop sandwich, brats and pizza make up the rest of the menu. It might seem like a lack of choices, but in reality it allows you to focus on the person sitting across from you.

“We get a lot of couples, whether it’s parents coming back from a school meeting or younger people who just want to get away for a little bit. It’s not that uncommon for people just to RISÉ SANDERS-WEIR come in and hang out and, have a

burger,” Kenny said.

Over in Riverside the vibe at Dulce Mama, 1 Riverside Road, is more romantic. Hearts hang from the ceiling and even the paninis come in a heart-shaped version.

This location of an eight outlet, local chain opened two and a half years ago.

Andrea Torres is co-owner with Lauren Gallegos. The original concept was a coffee and sweets shop, but it has now evolved into a full breakfast, lunch and dinner menu.

“It’s a very cozy place,” Torres said. “It’s soul warming. We do have people who like to stay there for hours talking, laughing all the time. We have some plates that are good to share.”

The churro pancakes ($11.50) get high marks on many online reviews. Three fluffy pancakes are topped with bananas,

cajeta sauce, crunchy cinnamon squares and a dollop of pink whipped cream.

“We try to do everything with a lot of love,” Torres said. “We try to be very focused on the details. We are best friends, co-owners.

We really like to share what we love to do.”

Golden Wok has long been a fixture in the area at 1122 Maple Ave in La Grange Park. The restaurant focuses on Mandarin and Cantonese specialties. These dishes have become staples of Chinese food in America, think moo shu pork, egg foo young or noodle dishes, like, lo mein (which are pan-fried Cantonese thin noodles) or chow mein (which are crispy noodles) or even wor mein (which are boiled noodles).

The beef lo mein ($11.75) is a favorite with thin sliced, tender beef and vegetables in a savory, thick soy-based sauce.

“We have a relaxing restaurant. We have a good food, like specials and lunch and regular dinner specials. It’s a pretty good deal for that,” owner Yan Wu said.

Family style dinners are for sharing. Sized for two, three, four or five diners, you can choose how many tag along on your date. Each comes with soup, appetizer, chicken fried rice and one entrée per person. There is a deluxe version that adds on more options and larger portions. Each meal comes with almond cookies for a sweet ending. You may be too full to do anything else.

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2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 41

St e e p l e Do you know these local churches?

Test your knowledge of these steeples (yes, we know, technically, they are not all steeples!) and match the church to its identifying facade here.

A

PHOTOS BY JILL WAGNER

B E

8. st. paul's episcopal church - e

9. st. paul's lutheran church - f

42 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

7. Riverside Presbyrtarian church - a

C

6. St. Peter and Paul lutheran church - b

D

Chase G

H

F I

1. St. Barbara - Holy Guardian Angels Parish 2. United Mehtodist church 3. st. mary catholic church 4. Igleasia Cristiana Casa de Dios 5. Cornerstone church 6. St. Peter and Paul lutheran church 7. Riverside Presbyrtarian church 8. st. paul's episcopal church 9. st. paul's lutheran church

answers below 1. St. Barbara - Holy Guardian Angels Parish - g

2. United Mehtodist church - d

2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 43

3. st. mary catholic church - c

4. Igleasia Cristiana Casa de Dios - h

5. Cornerstone church - i

B”H

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44 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

AND ALL THE REST!

Churches RIVERSIDE Ascension Lutheran Church Chris Honig, Pastor 400 Nuttall Road (708) 447-2600 ascension-riverside.org

Riverside Presbyterian Church Rev. Mark Zimmerly, Pastor 116 Barrypoint Road (708) 447-1520 rpcusa.org mark@rpcusa.org

TODD BANNOR

Volunteers pray at St Paul VI Parish Service day at St. Mary Church on November 8, 2025.

BROOKFIELD Brookfield Church of Christ Anthony G. Padgett and Barry G. Johnson Sr., Evangelists 3700 Forest Ave. (708) 485-7606 brookfieldcoc.com

Compassion United Methodist Church Rev. Karl Sokol, Pastor 9210 Broadway Ave. (708) 680-6749 revkarl@gmail.com compassionumc.com

Cornerstone Community Church 9008 Fairview Ave. (708) 485-8730 Brandon Siwula, Lead Pastor cornerstone-grow.org cornerstonebrookfield@outlook.com

Czech Catholic Mission of Sts. Cyril and Methodius 9415 Rochester Ave. (708) 533-1050 slovenskamisia.org

Holy Covenant Metropolitan Community Church 9145 Grant Ave. (708) 387-1611 hcmcc.org

Holy Guardian Angels Catholic Parish (St. Barbara Church, Brookfield and St. Louise de Marillac Church, La Grange Park) Rev. Brian Kean, Pastor 4008 Prairie Ave. (708) 485-2900 hgaparish.org bkean@hgaparish.org

Iglesia De Dios Torre Fuerte 9108 Lincoln Ave. (708) 485-5104 Roberto Garcia and Damaris Garcia, Lead Pastors mytorrefuerte.church

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 3829 Prairie Ave. (708) 485-8383

St. Nikola Serbian Orthodox Church Father Nemanja Tesic, Pastor 4301 Prairie Ave. (708) 854-6062 stnikolasoc.org

St. Paul Lutheran Church Rev. Dr. Edward Naumann, Pastor 9035 Grant Ave. (708) 485-6987

Riverside United Methodist Church 82 Woodside Road (708) 447-1760 umcriverside.org

St. Paul VI Parish (St. Mary Church) 2401 S 10th Ave (708) 447-1020 stpaulviparish.org tmay@archchicago.org

St. Paul’s Parish Father Luke Wetzel 60 Akenside Road (708) 447-1604 stpaulsparish.org

Sts. Peter and Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church Rev. Dennis J. Lauritsen, Pastor 250 Woodside Road (708) 442-5250 stspeterandpaulriverside.org pastor@stspeterandpaulriverside.org

2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 45

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Call Today To Schedule Your Community Visit (708) 366 -2206 46 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

Glow Wild lights up Brookfield Zoo this spring New lantern festival features over 70 illuminated animal sculptures, cultural performances and immersive conservation storytelling

By HECTOR CERVANTES Contributing Reporter

B

rookfield Zoo Chicago will light up the spring nights with Glow Wild: A Lantern Festival of Hope, debuting March 19.

Glow Wild at Brookfield Zoo is an evening lantern festival featuring more than 70 larger-than-life illuminated animal displays. Guests can wander through the zoo after dark, enjoying cultural performances, interactive experiences, and stories highlighting wildlife conservation. The event combines art, global culture and education to create an immersive, family-friendly experience.

“Glow Wild blends wonder, global culture and conservation storytelling.

You’ll be able to learn a lot about the animals reflected in the lanterns, which truly uplifts our mission to connect people with wildlife and nature,” Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Public Relations Director Julianne Olivo said.

Olivo explained that as guests walk through the festival, educational signage will provide information about the

PHOTOS COURTESTY OF BROOKFIELD ZOO CHICAGO

displays. On select nights, the “Hub of Hope” will feature performances from community partners and global-inspired cuisine will be available, offering visitors a taste of different cultures as part of the experience.

“We hope that Glow Wild creates a powerful and emotional connection between our guests and the animals they see, as well as with nature, connecting them in a way that’s different from their usual visits to the zoo,” Olivo said.

Glow Wild complements the zoo’s full 2026 calendar, which features returning

favorites such as Bunny Brunch in April, the Roaring Knights concerts, the Zoo on Cork series, the Reindeer Run, and Holiday Magic. Holiday Magic will mark a major milestone this year, celebrating its 45th anniversary.

“Glow Wild is a brand-new nighttime event and it will be the first time in our area that anything like this has been offered,” Olivo said.

The event will run through May 10, offering guests the opportunity to learn about the animals represented in the lanterns.

Tickets for Glow Wild are now available at brookfieldzoo.org/glow-wild, with prices starting at $9.95 for children and $19.95 for adults. This outdoor, evening-only event includes access to all festival experiences, unlimited rides on the Carousel and Ferris Wheel, and complimentary North Gate parking. Zoo members receive discounted admission, making Glow Wild an added perk of membership.

2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 47

Iconic Frank Lloyd Wright Estate is the Heart of Riverside Avery Coonley Estate Speaks to Preservation as well as Communityy

PROVIDED

48 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

COURTESY FLW TRUST

F

By LACEY SIKORA Contributing Reporter

rank Lloyd Wright designed Riverside’s Avery Coonley house between 1908 and 1912. Known as the Coonley Estate, the multi-acre property Esta was built for Coonley, a w Chicago industrialist, and his wife, Queene Ferry, an heir to Detroit’s Ferry Seed Company fortune.

Wright designed the entirety of the 10,000 square-foot home, down tto the rugs and textiles.

Avery Coonley sold the house Av 1921, and subsequent owners in 192 made d many changes to the property. In the mid-1950’s a developer bought the property, intending to demolish the structures and build a series of ranch homes on the property.

Carolyn Howlett, Riverside resident and a professor at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago convinced the developer to subdivide the property instead. She and her husband ended up purchasing the coach house and converting it into their home.

Today, the Coonley property is divided into multiple residences, including the coach house, the gardener’s cottage, and the public wing and family wing of the main house.

Stephanus, “Fanie,” Greeff and his late husband John Farneda purchased the family wing of the home in 2015. Greeff recalls that the residence was a short sale purchase in need of restoration.

“The roof was leaking everywhere. It was a teenager party house,” he recalls.

For Greeff, whose only prior knowledge of Wright’s work was the Guggenheim Museum in New York City, the condition of the house appeared daunting when Farneda first took him to tour it.

But for Farneda, who had grown up in the area and was familiar with Wright’s work, the house was too good to pass up.

After a four-year process of restoring and repairing the home, the couple’s restoration received awards from the Frederick Law Olmsted Society and the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy.

Richard Marritt and Steven Oldham were not interested in purchasing a Frank Lloyd Wright house in 2019. In fact, they weren’t looking for a house at all. The

CREDIT: ©VHT STUDIOS

couple had their sights set on a condominium in Chicago.

On a whim, they decided to tour the public wing of the Coonley House, which was being offered for sale by Ella Mae Eastman. She and her husband Dean had meticulously restored their side of the home.

Marritt recalls, “We had no connection to Riverside at all, but we decided to take this dive.”

While acknowledging that owning an architecturally significant, historic home is no walk in the park- did he

mention roof leaks, ice dams, and bursting pipes? - Marritt says it’s also been wonderful.

“It’s so great to share the home with the community,” he notes. “Ella Mae left us a box of notes that visitors left her, because they were really notes to the house. We plan to do the same with the notes people send us.”

Greeff and Marritt agree that there is a seemingly neverending list of work to do. The home’s 270 art glass windows aren’t particularly easy to clean, and both are on a first name basis with their roofer.

Marritt notes that there are two types of contractors: those who are overjoyed to be working on such a significant house, and those who drive up the driveway and are so intimidated that they want to back right out.

In spite of this, Greeff and Marritt also take pride in being responsible for maintaining the home. In September, they hosted a dinner for everyone connected to the estate, and they continue to open up their home for fundraisers and events, including hosting a dinner for guests of the annual Wright Plus Housewalk.

Greeff states, “We’re happy to share it, and people are happy to come.”

2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 49

Parks & Recreation The mission of SEASPAR is to provide recreation programs and services for residents with disabilities by providing excellence in recreation through programs and services. For more information, visit seaspar.org or call 630) 960-7600.

Riverside Parks and Facilities Big Ball Park 197 Longcommon Rd Blythe Park 360 Blythe Rd STELLA BROWN

Brookfield Forester Victor Janusz, fellow forestry employee Vincent Fraga and resident Elaine Jans shovel dirt onto a galaxy magnolia at Candy Cane Park on April 25, 2025.

Kiwanis Park 8820 Brookfield Ave.

Maple South Park 3915 Madison Ave.

Candy Cane Park 28th St. and Park Ave.

Madison Park 4019 Madison Ave.

Veterans Memorial Park 3648 Sunnyside Ave

Creekside Park 3815 Grove Ave.

Madlin Park Lincoln Ave. between Madison Ave. and Raymond Ave.

Brookfield Parks and Facilities

Harrison Park 3233 Harrison Ave. Ehlert Park 4338 Congress Park Ave.

Maple North Park 3840 Maple Ave.

Special RecreationSEASPAR Brookfield is a member of the South East Association for Special Parks and Recreation (SEASPAR).

Guthrie Park Longcommon Road and Bloomingbank Road Harrington Park Robinson Court and Delaplaine Road Indian Gardens Located south off of Fairbank Road Swan Pond Located south off of Burling Road and Bloomingbank Road

A&A ELECTRIC ELECTRIC A&A ELECTRIC A&A

Ceiling Fans Let an American Veteran do your work Ceiling Ceiling Installed Fans Let Fans Let an American do work We install plugs forVeteran battery-operated vehicles an American Veteran do your your work Installed We Installed Weinstall install plugs for problem battery-operated vehicles We fix any plugs electrical and do small jobs battery-operated vehicles Wefix fixany any electrical problem and Weelectrical install Surge Protectors We problem anddo dosmall smalljobs jobs Weinstall install SurgePlugs Protectors • Home Re-wiring • New & Switches Added We Surge Protectors •Home Home Re-wiring New Plugs & • •New circuit breaker••boxes • Code violationsAdded corrected Re-wiring New Plugs & Switches Switches Added Newcircuit circuitbreaker breaker boxes boxes violations Service upgrades,100-200 amp•• •Code Garage & A/C corrected lines installed • •New Code violations corrected Service upgrades,100-200 amp •• Garage Fast Emergency Service | Residential Industrial Service upgrades,100-200 amp Garage•&Commercial &A/C A/Clines lines•installed installed FastEmergency Emergency Service Residential Commercial ••Industrial | Lic. • Bonded •••Ins. • Low Rates • Free Est. Free Home Evaluations Fast Service || Residential Commercial Industrial Free Home Evaluations | Lic. • Bonded • Ins. • Low Rates • Free Est. Free Home Evaluations | Lic. • Bonded • Ins. • Low Rates • Free Est.

708-409-0988••708-738-3848 708-738-3848 708-409-0988 Sr. Discounts •708-738-3848 30 Yrs. Exp. 708-409-0988 • Sr. Discounts • 30 Yrs.suburbs Exp. • Chicago area Servicing Oak Park • All surrounding Sr. Discounts • 30 Yrs. Exp. • Chicago area Servicing Oak Park • All surrounding suburbs

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50 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

Libraries

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Riverside Public Library

Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library

Riverside Public Library

3541 Park Ave., Brookfield (708) 485-6917 lsfbrookfieldlibrary.org Hours: Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Closed on Sundays between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

1 Burling Road, Riverside (708) 442-6366 riversidelibrary.org Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m.-5 p.m.

Library Director Kimberly Coughran kcoughran@ lsfbrookfieldlibrary.org

Board of Trustees Jennifer Paliatka, President Michelle Parker, Vice President Linda Kampschroeder, Secretary Edgar Mihelic, Treasurer David Jakubiak Phil Weglarz Natalie DeJonghe

Library Director Janice Foley janicefoley@riversidelibrary.org

Board of Trustees Ken Circo, President Courtney Greve Hack, Vice President Nancy DeFauw, Treasurer Dan Loucks, Secretary Amy Bilow Tracy Bohrer Mickey Novak

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Look for coupons on our back page ad 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 51

Most Checked out books at Riverside Public Library in 2025 adult books

frozen 2 The river

By Ariel By Ariel riel e LLawhon aaw who hon

3 The women

1 The wedding people

By Kristin Hannah

By Alison Espach

most checked out Children's authors

1) Jeff Kinney

2) J.K. Rowling

3) Stuart Gibbs

4) Rick Riordan

5) Tui T. Sutherland

6) Judd Winick

7) Andy Griffiths 8) Gordon Koman

9) Max Brallier 10) Katherine Applegate

52 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

4) Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall 5) The God of the Woods by Liz Moore 6) The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins 7) The Crash by Freida McFadden 8) Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid 9) Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney 10) James by Percival Everett 11) Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy

most checked out Children's graphic novels

1) Captain Underpants

2) Big Nate

3) Baby-Sitters Club

4) The Magic Treehouse

5) Phoebe & Her Unicorn

6) I Survived Series

7) Besties 8) Narwhal & Jelly

9) Investi Gators 10) Smile

Most Checked out books at Brookfield Library in 2025 adult books

2

4) Wi W Wild ild dD Dark ark Shore ar Sh hor oree bby Charlotte Ch l tt M McConaghy C h 5) The Housemaid by Freida McFadden 6) The Tenant by Freida McFadden 7) The Women by Kristin Hannah 8) The Crash by Freida McFadden 9) Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry

broken country

By Clare Leslie Hall

3 james

1 The let them theory

By Percival Everett

By Mel Robbins

most checked out teen books

1) Naruto

2) Sunrise on the Reaping

3) Demon Slayer

4) Black Butler

5) My Hero Academia

6) Kimi ni Todoke: From Me to You

7) Spy x Family 8) Bleach

9) Assassination Classroom 10) Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon

most checked out youth books

1) Dog Man

2) Big Nate

3) Cat Kid Comic Club

4) Hilo

5) Kirby Manga Mania

6) Baby-Sitters Little Sister

7) Diary of a Wimpy Kid 8) Investi Gators

9) Animal Crossing: New Horizons 10) Max Meow

2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 53

“Putting food on the table is a form of saying, I got you.

Everything is going to be okay.”

– a neighbor in need

The ANSWER to hunger is community.

Our new video brings forward the voices of our neighbors in need. Expressing the importance of human dignity. Showing the way forward for our pantry and our community.

SEE THE VIDEO!

sharefoodsharelove.com

54 | 2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book

Dumas works to make the community a better place through the Share Food Share Love pantry and Brookfield Theater Corporation

J

By ELIZABETH SHORT Contributing Reporter

ohn Dumas retired from his career in finance last year, but he says he’s just as busy these days. The life-long Brookfield resident fills his time running the Share Food Share Love pantry, leading the Brookfield Theater Corporation as managing director, and serving as the vice president of the Brookfield Chamber of Commerce.

Dumas was a founder of the Share Food Share Love pantry at Faith Lutheran Church in 2015.

The congregation was getting smaller, and the community wanted to create a “legacy project” to continue its ministry when the church closed.

Even though Faith Lutheran closed in 2022 and the pantry moved, the organization continues its work to support families in need, feeding approximately 4,300 families last year. Today, Dumas serves as the pantry’s administrative director.

When Dumas was a freshman in high school, his father was in a car accident and became unable to continue his work as a mechanic. The family lost its main source of income. With his mother working and extended family chipping in, his family was able to support itself without relying on the services of a food pantry. But his family was “not immune to the possibility,” he said.

“Many, many, many families, probably more than you would like to admit, are in that same spot. If they lost their income overnight like that, they would be in a bad spot. And if they didn’t have the support system that my family had, what would you do? You have to go to a food pantry or something,” he said.

“There’d be no choice.”

He said this perspective motivated him to work for struggling families with the Share Food Share Love pantry. Dumas’s faith was also a driving force — he grew up attending Faith Lutheran — as he said the primary directives of the church were to love and take care of one another. This background made it “very, very difficult” for him to not participate in community service.

Dumas has also been involved in local theater for

TODD BANNOR

John Dumas at the Soup and Bread event at Robert’s Westside in 2025. decades. When he started high school, Dumas was unsure of how to become more involved. He quickly found his place in the theater community. “One of the great things about the theater community is that everybody is welcome and everybody is treated the same,” said Dumas.

After high school, he continued to work on theater with the Riverside Theater Guild and later with the Brookfield Theater Corporation, which he works for as managing director. Theater is where Dumas found a creative outlet and a community and where he met his wife. Community theater has “given me so much,” said Dumas, “so I’ve really felt the need to give back to that.” The Brookfield Theater Corporation has plans to purchase an old auto repair shop to transform the space into a theater.

“The food pantry and the theater are the things that I wanted to accomplish in my life,” said Dumas.

“It’s been a great life, and I really want to share that with people and try to make the world a better place, because it was certainly good to me.”

GETTING TO KNOW

John Dumas works to give back to the Brookfield community

2026 Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book | 55

T

his data represents sales of single-family homes

Median Price increase or decrease over the same time

and condo/townhomes in Riverside and Brookfield

period the previous year can indicate overall trends in

from January 1 to December 31, 2025. In addition

pricing. For instance, Brookfield’s condominiums and

to total homes sold and average sale prices, we’ve also

townhomes saw a 21.7% price increase over the previous

included other statistics.

year, while single-family housing saw a 7% increase,

Sales Price/Listing Price Ratio indicates the percentage of the listing price that a property was sold for. You might expect this number to be less than 100%, since buyers

indicating appreciation across the market.

Our thanks to the Oak Park Area Association of Realtors for providing these statistics.

often try to negotiate discounts off the listing price. If the number is 101%, as it is in Brookfield single-family, homes, that means sellers are getting even more than they are asking.

Most Expensive/Least Expensive sales Detached Single Family Home: Least Expensive Sale: 204 E. Burlington St. (2BR/1BA)

Attached Unit Stats:

Number of Units Sold: 20

$305,000, November 2025

Average Market Time: 42 days

(5BR/4.1BA), May 2025

Average Sold Price: $294,225

Most Expensive Sale: 270 Scottswood Rd. $1,365,000

Median Sold Price: $185,500

Attached Unit:

Total Volume of Sales: $5,884,500

BR/1BA condo, $129,000, September 2025

Median Price Increase Over Same Period 2024: +4.5%

Least Expensive Sale: 114 Lincoln Ave., Unit G, 1

Sale Price/Listing Price: 95%

Most Expensive Sale: 10 E. Burlington Ave., 3BR/3.1BA townhome, $935,000, June 2025 Detached Home Stats:

Number of Units Sold: 91

Average Market Time: 45 days Median Sold Price: $555,000

Average Sold Price: $607,356

Total Volume of Sales: $55,269,405 Sale Price/Listing Price: 100%

Median Price Decrease over same period 2024: -2.6%

2 | | 2025 Riverside 56 2026Brookfield/Riverside/North Brookfield/Riverside Answer Book Answer Book

Riverside

2026 local real estate snapshot Most Expensive/Least Expensive sales Detached Single Family:

Least Expensive: 4138 Arthur Ave. (4 BR/1 BA) $185,000 – July 2025

Brookfield

Most Expensive: 4510 Raymond Ave. (4BR/4.1 BA) - $908,000 – December 2025 Attached Units:

Least Expensive: 8812 45th Place, Unit 3 (1 BR, 1BA Condo) - $150,000 – October 2025

Most Expensive: 4313 Eberly Ave., (3 BR/2.1 BA Townhome) - $385,000 – November 2025 Detached Home Stats:

Number of Units Sold: 173

Average Market Time: 29 days Median Sold Price: $380,000

Average Sold Price: $398,208

Total Volume of Sales: $68,889,964 Sale Price/Listing Price: 101%

Median Price Increase over same period 2024: +7%

Attached Unit Stats:

Number of Units Sold: 23

Average Market Time: 31 days Median Sold Price: $280,000

Average Sold Price: $279,152

Total Volume of Sales: $6,420,499 Sale Price/Listing Price: 100%

Median Price Decrease Over Same Period 2024: +21.7%

2025 Brookfield/Riverside/North Riverside Answer Book | 3

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Catch Basin Pumping $ .00

375

Residential only Must Mention Coupon