North Riversider Village Newsletter Spring 2023

North Riversider

Communication Is The Key To Our Community’s Forward Progress

GREAT NEWS! THE LOGO RESULTS ARE IN

Mayor MENGONI, BOARDinvite you!

Some of the upcoming events currently being planned for our Centennial can be found on page 3 of this issue and we hope you’ll join us over the next few months. “The Village Board of Trustees and I are looking forward to celebrating our community’s 100-year anniversary,” said Mayor Mengoni. “I want to personally thank all our resident volunteers for the time they are committing to planning our upcoming events.” The Mayor added, “Two things are for certain: we have a rich history that residents of all ages should know about and we definitely have a promising future.”

So many reasons to celebrate!

July 30, 2023 marks the 100th anniversary of the Village of North Riverside’s incorporation and we have so many reasons to celebrate. While the question of “who built the first home” remains a mystery, there can be no doubt that the land once occupied by onion farmers and often referred to as the “frog pond” has evolved into an exceptional community in every way, thanks to residents and leadership working side by side over the past century. We have every reason to be proud of our vibrant business community, comprised of family-owned businesses and retail giants as well schools, churches, our library, parks and recreational opportunities, clubs and many community organizations. From our early days of fighting brush fires with a hose and having one full-time crime fighter, we can also be proud of our extraordinary fire and police departments, staffed with committed personnel using state-of-the-art equipment. “What a tremendous privilege it is for me to lead the Village at this exciting time in our history,” said Mayor Joseph Mengoni. “The Board and I look forward to this year’s celebrations and working to make the Village great for the next generation.”

Congratulations to our logo contest winner, Alyson Haas. Her submission, pictured above, was inspired by her grandparents who built their first house on 5th Avenue in 1951 and raised a family here. Alyson attended both Komarek and R-B and still proudly lives in North Riverside with her husband and two boys. The Village is grateful to everyone who put their creative talents to the test for the competition, including Vanessa Mendola, Donald Baumruck and Beth Kell.

from the mayor

BECAUSE THEIR DREAMS MATTER

JUNE 12th

MAYOR’S YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP GOLF OUTING

The Mayor’s annual Youth Scholarship Golf Outing will be held on Monday, June 12 at Riverside Golf Club. Proceeds from the event go to the North Riverside Youth Program and Educational Scholarship Fund, Inc. The Fund provides resident students with financial assistance in their pursuit of higher education as well as opportunities for young residents to enroll and participate in various recreational activities and programs. For more information about attending the outing or supporting the Fund, call 708/442-5515.

“COFFEE” DATES

Stop in at the Commons and chat with the Mayor, Trustees and Village staff about anything on your mind! Starting at 10 am on these remaining dates:

July 15

October 21

We’re persistent about progress: Need proof? It’s all right here

Going after grants. We have made going after grant money for projects identified on our long-term replacement plan a top priority. Even if we don’t succeed the first time, it doesn’t stop us from re-applying. Grant funding is not only about getting things done that we want and need to accomplish but it also covers some of the cost of major initiatives, taking tremendous pressure off of our budget.

Grant funds awarded:

1)The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) Green Infrastructure Project. MWRD will fund $1.7 million of this large-scale project, expected to total $2.2 million. While construction will disrupt some events and parking over the summer months, the end result will be revolutionary permeable pavers arranged to better manage stormwater, thereby reducing the load to the sewer system, mitigating flooding and improving area water quality. The project is expected to begin at the Commons parking lot in early July and extend to other parts of the Village campus. Upon completion, Commons parking will also be redesigned to improve traffic flow and provide a much-needed pick-up/drop-off zone at the rear entrance of the Commons.

2) Our lobbying efforts are paying off as well. We would like to recognize Illinois State Senator/Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford, State Senator Mike Porfirio and State Representative Abdelnasser Rashid as they have made $900,000 in state grants possible. Thank you for investing in North Riverside and working with us on our strong and vibrant community. If it’s essential to the betterment of our community, we will never give up.

Grants currently applied for:

1) The Cook County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) Climate Resiliency Planning for Communities Project. This program is designed to identify and help communities prepare for climate-related events and prevent damage and losses in communities that are most vulnerable. The goal of the grant is to maintain the well-being and health of residents through transforming infrastructure, implementing nature-based solutions and ensuring social structures are adaptable. These funds would further our focus on green initiatives.

2) The SAFER grant. FEMA’s Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant would allow us to hire 6 new firefighter/paramedics to staff our in-house paramedic program, paying their salaries and benefits over three years. Hopefully, the third time is a charm—this grant is worth nearly $2 million.

3) EV Charging Stations. Electric vehicles (EV) are here to stay and we won’t be left behind. This grant would provide two Level 2 (240 volt) charging stations near the Community Room entrance of the Commons where vehicle owners can recharge.

Thank you. We couldn’t let the retirement of H. Bob Demopoulos happen without a collective “thank you” for his service over the past 12 years. The Board and I honored Bob, the current Board’s longest-serving Trustee, with a plaque at the April 17th Board meeting. I would also like to recognize Marybelle Mandel, whose term has ended, for her service the past four years.

Mayor Joseph Mengoni

100 Years

1923-2023 Celebrate with us

July 30, 2023 marks the 100th year of North Riverside’s incorporation as a Village. Watch for details on these upcoming events and join us in celebrating a century of progress!

• Join us for a Community celebration on July 30th, our 100th birthday

• Don’t miss the Gala at Riverside Golf Club on October 20th

• Experience the timeline to be displayed in the Commons lobby

• Purchase commemorative items for sale

• Attend the North Riverside Players celebration performance

• Join us in digging up old time capsules and burying a new one

Details coming

Follow the Village’s official Facebook pages and check the website www.northriverside-il.org

PARKS & RECREATION

Connect with us

It’s easy to learn more and get registered:

Phone: 708/442-5515 • Fax: 708/442-7310

Web: www.northriverside-il.org

Email: recreation@northriverside-il.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/NorthRiversideRecreation

Instagram: @nrrecreation

Celebrate with friends and neighbors! Parade route will stay the same, starting at 9th Avenue and head straight down 26th Street to Veterans Park where Little League teams will take to the field after a patriotic salute to our country. Later, come to the Commons for kids’ entertainment, food vendors and an exciting performance by Maggie Speaks from 7 to 9 pm. The day ends with awesome fireworks provided by Riverside Golf Club.

join us: thursday nights in june and july!

FINAL SAY

THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 7 TO 9 PM

Final Say is one of Chicago's most dynamic bands. Performing the music of the 60s through today's rock, pop, and Top 40, Final Say delivers a high-energy show that will have you dancing all night.

SECOND HAND SOUL BAND

THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 7 TO 9 PM

“The Second Hippest Trip in America,” Second Hand Soul Band performs hits made famous by legends such as the Temptations, Pointer Sisters, Commodores, Michael Jackson, The Beatles, Al Green, Stevie Wonder, Doobie Brothers and the Rolling Stones. This seven-member band has earned 5 Stars in Google reviews for their amazing shows.

GENERATIONS

THURSDAY, JULY 13, 7 TO 9 PM

Rockin’ the iconic hits from the 60s, 70s and 80s like “Born to Be Wild,” “Jailhouse Rock,” and “Ticket to Ride, promises a live classic rock performance.

BILLY ELTON

Attention, Facebook followers! We changed our Facebook page so be sure to follow the new page: www.Facebook.com/ NorthRiversideRecreation

THURSDAY, JULY 20, 7 TO 9 PM

REGISTER YOUR RIDE FOR CAR SHOW NIGHT

Billy Elton celebrates the music of two of the greatest singers, pianists, and songwriters in pop music history—Billy Joel and Elton John. Led by Reid Spears on the piano and lead vocals, this 8-piece band takes you on a timeless journey through the catalogs of these two musical giants. Want to showcase your car? Call Parks & Recreation at 442-5515.

WILD DAISY

THURSDAY, JULY 27, 7 TO 9 PM

Wild Daisy (pictured above) is an energetic, dynamic, femaleowned, female & male-fronted country band playing a blend of current and classic country and pop and rock favorites. Wild Daisy has established a reputation for consistently delivering family-friendly, crowd-interactive, entertaining shows!

Concerts held at the Village Commons (or Police parking lot, depending on Commons lot construction). Watch for details.

TRIPS

Save Your Seat!

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET(lots of walking) featuring vendors and food trucks. This historical town also has an Opera Theater and several restaurants as well as “Groundhog Day” murals and monuments. Fee is for transportation only. Lunch is on your own. Tuesday, June 27, 8am-3pm. $59/$61.

LUNCHEON CRUISE ON LAKE GENEVA. Relax and enjoy all the scenic beauty of Lake Geneva as you cruise around the entire lake and enjoy a delicious sit-down meal aboard the Grand Belle of Geneva. Tuesday, July 18, 9am-4pm. $132/$134.

CHICAGO PIZZA TOUR (some walking). Trained guides take you to highly-rated historic Chicago pizzerias. Learn about and enjoy multiple styles of pizza at each location. All food is pre-ordered and waiting for you at each stop. Price includes your transportation, tour, pizza slices and a soft drink at each restaurant. Wednesday, August 9, 5:15pm-10pm. $144/$146.

VISIT BEAUTIFUL VERMONT

Experience the beauty of Vermont in the fall

TOURS, SHOPPING, DINING, DINNER CRUISE

Experience the charm of “the granite state” on our Vermont bus tour! Tour the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory and downtown Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace and their award-winning open air mall with over 100 places to shop and dine; take a dinner cruise along beautiful Lake Champlain; be blown away by the view at Rock of Ages Granite Quarry. See how real Vermont Maple Syrup is made from the tree to your table at Morse Farm Sugar Works. No trip to Vermont is complete without a taste of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream! October 15-21. Residents: $1019 pp double. Non-Residents: $1049 pp double. Singles: add $505 pp to above rates.

From the Commons to Costa Rica, there’s lots of fun for everyone

RELAX. OR EXPLORE. The culture, cuisine and beauty of Costa Rica

Costa Rica provides the perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, culture, fine cuisine and wildlife. Visitors will find an adventure paradise set in the most beautiful natural and safe environment.

You will enjoy dreamlike landscapes and experience natural wonders unlike anywhere else. Reserve your place now: February 7-15, 2024 (8 nights).

Residents: $3,675 pp double.

Non-Residents: $3,725 pp double.

Singles: add $725 pp to above rates. Insurance: Please ask about pricing. Call 442-5515 today!

PUBLIC WORKS

NEW FOREMAN: SCOTT HICKEY

Scott Hickey, a 23-year old veteran of the Public Works Department, was promoted to Foreman in December 2022. “He’s as fantastic as we thought he would be,” said PW Director Ranieri. Born and raised in North Riverside, a graduate of Mater Christi and R-B High School, Hickey is a “perfect fit” for the Department. “He’s a hands-on working foreman, always ready to give 110%.”

MWRD AWARDS LARGEST PAVER PROJECT TO THE VILLAGE

The Village of North Riverside’s application to the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Chicago (MWRD) to fund and support green infrastructure projects that mitigate flooding, protect area water quality and enhance public spaces was not only accepted but “they loved our ideas,” said Public Works Director Vince Ranieri, who partnered with Village Engineer John Fitzgerald of Novotny Engineering in submitting the proposal.

inconvenience. “Green infrastructure is an excellent community investment that can help reduce flooding and urban runoff, improve water quality and decrease the stress on our sewer systems,” said MWRD Commissioner Mariyana Spyropoulos. “With more intense rain events on the horizon this summer, now is the time to plan for these green improvements.”

MEET RICHARD THOMPSON

Recently hired as a laborer, Richard Thompson is loving his new position in the Public Works Department. Since starting in March, he’s been cross-training to serve in every capacity for every season.

Pictured in front of the street sweeper, give “RJ” a wave if you see him on your block!

To be tackled in several phases, permeable paver blocks will completely replace all asphalt parking lots around the Village campus. Commons parking lot will also be redesigned to create a designated pick-up/drop-off lane for preschoolers, day campers and other groups. The reconfiguration will replace the existing planters with benches and raised planter beds and provide opportunities for the Garden Club to beautify the new gathering areas. A new sidewalk will also be installed along the gym to improve safety and create better access to the bike path.

Construction on the $2.2 million project will begin in July. While some events may be relocated, the benefits far outweigh the temporary

Mayor Joseph Mengoni added that the life span of this type of project is as long as 25 years. “This is a smart investment for North Riverside and it will help address long-term flooding issues in our entire community. It’s not merely a cosmetic improvement, though it will be beautiful. These permeable pavers will soak up more than 210,000 gallons of water per rain event, alleviating flooding and runoff into area waterways. After completion of this and other MWRD projects, more than 6.6 million gallons of stormwater will be retained per rain event. We thank the MWRD for approving our application and we will continue to search out every opportunity to improve the quality of life for everyone in and around North Riverside.” All work is expected to be completed just in time for the Village’s Autumn Fest in September.

“They loved our ideas”

PW Seasonal reminders and project updates from your Public Works Department

1st Curbside Pickup for electronics is Weds., May 24

The PW drop-off is now closed and the Village’s waste hauler LRS will begin picking up electronics at your home twice each year. Items accepted include: cable receivers, cell phones, computers, computer cables, computer monitors, computer mouse, DVD players and recorders, digital converter boxes, electronic keyboards, fax machines, PDAs, MP3s, printers, satellite receivers, scanners, video game consoles, VCRs, old TVs and zip drives. Limit is 7 items per household and no more than two TVs or monitors. To participate in the curbside pickup, residents must register online by May 22, 2023 at LRSRecycles.com/NorthRiverside (click Schedule E-waste Pickup) or call 844-633-3577.

Water TOWER Project Extensive work planned for August

Work to restore our standpipe (water tower) will soon begin but residents will see no significant changes to water service during the restoration period. The 2.5 million gallon tank will be drained while the entire structure is blast cleaned. All steel connections will be inspected for integrity and refurbished, bringing it up to code. A mixing system to prevent freezing (not available when the standpipe was built in 2000) will be installed, cathodic protection will be applied and the tower will be painted. The Village saved approximately $75,000 by scheduling the work in the fall instead of the busy spring season.

Here for YOU: the Handyman

If you are a senior or disabled resident who needs some help getting minor repairs done around the house, just call 708/762-5885 for more information. Stay safe!

branch collection, tree service, street sweeping, and sprinkling guidelines

n Early Hydrant Flushing. Watch for markers around the neighborhood in early June as Public Works (PW) will expedite the 2023 flushing to accommodate the standpipe (water tower) project. If you experience discoloration in your water, flush the faucet without restricted flow closest to the meter (basement).

n Branch Collection. Runs every Tuesday from the second Tuesday through November 15th. Place your minor cuttings at the curbside on Monday. Public Works goes down every street picking up the clippings but does not pick up debris left from contractors.

n Tree Service. All parkway trees are owned and maintained by PW. If a tree is dead or diseased, PW will assess it and have it removed. If the tree is not dead or diseased, it will not be removed. Tree trimming happens on an as-needed basis.

n Street Sweeping. Monday through Friday until the first snowfall. Every curb is swept once a week with alleys cleaned once a month.

n Sprinkling Ordinances. Please note that it is unlawful to use water for sprinkling between 11am-7pm any day after May 1 through September 30; when the temperature reaches 90 degrees Fahrenheit; at any time when the Mayor/Board determine an emergency exists.

POLICE

You can run but you can’t hide

FLOCK LICENSE PLATE READERS PREVENT, SOLVE CRIMES

CONGRATULATIONS, OFFICER JOSH CZERAK

The enforcement of DUI laws is a thankless, time-consuming and unpleasant arrest situation. However, it is one of the most important arrests an officer can make on a regular basis.

On April 17, 2023 Officer Josh Czerak was given the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorist (AAIM) award in recognition of his efforts contributing to traffic safety for having made 100 DUI arrests. Executive Director of AAIM, Rita Kreslin, presented Officer Czerak with the award at a recent Village Board Meeting. Mayor Mengoni, Officer Czerak and Chief Ehrenberg are pictured above.

The Mission of the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists (AAIM) is to prevent deaths and injuries caused by chemically impaired or distracted operators of any motor vehicle or watercraft and to assist victims of these crashes in Illinois.

Possessing the technology to stay one step ahead of criminal behavior today is essential and sharing that information plays a crucial role when it comes to successfully preventing and fighting crime. The Police Department’s implementation of a community-wide advanced license plate reader program (pictured above), together with the private investment of 10 additional readers by North Riverside Park Mall (NRPM) sends a clear message to anyone considering breaking the law in North Riverside: you can run but you can’t hide.

Police Chief Christian Ehrenberg explains that in busy commercial areas, the cameras can read thousands of license plates in a day—a task that is just not possible for officers to complete themselves. In addition, having the ability to share data with all agencies that use Flock information, including the Mall and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), not only provides key evidence after a crime has been committed but can prevent crimes before they occur by alerting police to stolen vehicles, for example.

In less than three months, the information obtained from the entire Flock network of these advanced cameras in North Riverside has led to 20 total incidents:

4 11 arrests

4 9 recovered stolen vehicles

4 1 recovered gun

4 1 drug arrest

According to Flock Safety, 82% of all non-violent crimes go unsolved— not because police aren’t doing their job, but because they lack actionable evidence. Law enforcement agencies know that a license plate is key to solving most crimes because it can lead them to the name and address of the perpetrator. Flock license plate reader cameras offer many advantages, such as instantly searchable data, including plate numbers or information for missing/covered plates, as well as vehicle make, model, color, alterations, and other unique identifying information. With a standard camera, you have to go through hours of footage to find the captured crime.

“These cameras are just another necessary tool in our arsenal,” said Mayor Mengoni. “Our continued relationship with NRPM only makes the community safer and stronger. Partnerships matter and we intend to use every resource to keep residents and visitors safe. Once this project is complete, cameras will be at every major entry point into the community, giving the NRPD extra eyes and the evidence it needs when it comes to making solid arrests and convictions.”

stronger THAN ever Fire Department adds 5 to roster

New FF/Paramedics bring passion to job TRAINED

AND READY

• Anthony Agne always knew he wanted a career in fire service, despite pursuing a degree in education. He graduated from Purdue University and began his fire training, becoming a certified firefighter/paramedic in October 2021. “It’s a feeling like no other when you can be there for someone when they need help.”

• Cameron Abraham earned his Associates Degree at the College of DuPage and attended the paramedic program and firefighter certification through the Romeoville Fire Academy. “I enjoy making a positive difference within the community I serve and I will serve North Riverside to the best of my ability.”

• Christian Bradley, born and raised in Dubuque, Iowa, earned his Bachelors Degrees in Biology and Chemistry from Clarke University in 2017. “I chose to change professions after joining my local volunteer fire department and finding gratification in all aspects of EMS and fire service. I am beyond excited to join the NRFD.”

• Reese Holwell attended EMR and EMT classes at Joliet Junior College and was a Class of 2020 graduate from Morris Hospital’s paramedic academy. In 2022, he graduated from the Chief Shabbona Fire Academy. “Since I was a young child, watching firefighters rush to the neighbor’s burning house, I have believed this profession to be one of the most selfless careers around.”

• Matt Rouleau, born and raised in North Riverside, brings 15 years of fire service experience to the job and a family history of men who have proudly served the North Riverside Fire Department. A paramedic for 12 years, he is a Triton College graduate and holds multiple fire-fighting certificates. “Words cannot describe how excited I am to be “home,” serving the people and making this my lifelong career.”

Strength in Numbers

MAYOR: THIS IS WHAT PROGRESS LOOKS LIKE

Ratifying a new 5-year contract with Firefighters Union Local 2714 in late 2022 was just the beginning of what Mayor Joseph Mengoni knew needed to be accomplished within the NRFD. Recently, five exceptional candidates were sworn in as FF/Paramedics, moving the department closer to fully staffing its in-house paramedic program. “These new hires epitomize the future of our great fire department and bolster our “in-house” paramedics plan—they are educated, ambitious, compassionate, eager to learn and ready to serve,” said Mayor Mengoni. For Fire Chief Bob McDermott, the swearing-in was a pivotal moment for NRFD. “These men, who are trained firefighters and certified paramedics, are the future of our department,” said the Chief. “They will stay, develop their skill sets, train future hires and continue to build on their experiences as years go on. The Mayor and Board have given this department a clear direction, stability and the firm footing that was much needed.”

As the last piece of this transition plan, the Village is seeking federal funding worth approximately $2 million through FEMA’s Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant to hire 6 additional firefighters, paying their salaries and benefits over three years and setting our maximum staffing levels at 21 sworn FFs/PMs.

Pictured above, left to right, FF Al Allen, FF Anthony Agne, Mayor Mengoni, Lt. Jason Williams, FF Christian Bradley, Chief Bob McDermott and FF Jim Moore. Below, left to right, Clerk Kathy Ranieri and Mayor Joseph Mengoni with FF Matt Rouleau, FF Reese Holwell, FF Cameron Abraham and Chief McDermott.

BIG OR SMALL, ALL BUSINESSES ARE IMPORTANT TO A STRONG, VIBRANT COMMUNITY

stays local”

MY SECRET SALON & MY SECRET SALON SUITES

Not your average beauty salon, My Secret Salon offers haircuts and styles for men, women and children as well as manicures, lashes, waxing and complete personal beauty services, including make-up for special occasions. Launched by Maria Del Refugio Cruz, this woman-owned minority small business is located at 8601-8603 W. Cermak and also offers an opportunity for entrepreneurs who want to develop their own business in the beauty industry (such as massage therapy, acupuncture, etc.) in a private suite. My Secret Salon Suites is the perfection option for helping a small new business flourish. To make an appointment or for more information, call 708-656-1280.

HUSTLE HARD

In 2022, certified coaches Nick, Mike, and Emilio started Hustle Hard Athletics. The concept was a Youth/Adult training facility with the idea to provide professional programs to all ages and levels of athleticism. Through these programs created by in-house trainers/coaches, the goal is to build confidence while creating healthier and more active kids and adults in our community. Hustle Hard opened its North Riverside location in December at 8921 W. Cermak, offering speed, agility, flexibility, group training, weight/strength training, hand-eye training and other personal programs to the community. Parents, especially, can rest assured their child-athlete will receive the best possible training and care. Mayor Mengoni, Trustees Fernando Flores, Terri Sarro, Jason Bianco and Maribel Mandel cut the ribbon, officially welcoming Hustle Hard to the community.

Top photo: Mayor Mengoni, Trustees Terri Sarro, Jason Bianco and Fernando Flores with members of the North Riverside Fire Department attended the official ribbon cutting for My Secret Salon and My Secret Salon Suites, at 8601-8603 W. Cermak in North Riverside. While the salon offers all services to help you look your best, the opportunity for entrepreneurs and start-up businesses to rent a small suite provides a perfect setting to grow professionally.

Bottom photo: Mayor Mengoni stopped in at Hustle Hard Athletics, 8921 W. Cermak in North Riverside to cut the grand opening ribbon. Trustees Terri Sarro, Jason Bianco, Fernando Flores and Marybelle Mandel also attended and encourage area residents of all ages to take advantage of the experience and personal training offered by the coaching staff.

THE WAIT IS OVER...OUR NEW ALDI IS OPEN

Formerly located at 2000 Harlem Avenue, the new Aldi store located at 7517 W. Cermak Road in North Riverside is open and offering exciting new features for customers. While the store has a traditional Aldi exterior, the inside is dramatically different from its old prototype. North Riverside’s new Aldi is a 20,000 square foot store with a 72-space parking lot. The company’s new concept of wider aisles, softer lighting, showcasing its expanded produce area and refrigerated produce section, eye-level shelving, digital displays and it’s always-popular home goods section. Pictured, Mayor Mengoni, Clerk Ranieri, Trustees Flores, Czajka, Sarro and Bianco, Administrator Scarpiniti and Public Works Director Ranieri celebrated with store staff on January 26, 2023.

“Money that is spent locally

Neighborhood Services

by Coordinator Carol Spale Information and

Building Blocks

of Kindness

Thank you, Terri Sarro: Our 2023 Angel Award Recipient

At the Neighborhood Services Block Captain meeting in March, the 2023 Richard N. Scheck Angel Award was presented to Village Trustee Theresa “Terri” Chiappetta Sarro, “in recognition of her outstanding service to her neighbors, for her unselfish donation of time to those in need, and for setting an example for other families in the village on how to reach out to others to make a difference in our community.” Village Clerk Kathy Ranieri said she “couldn’t think of a more deserving person to receive this award.” So many village residents are touched by Terri’s kindness, patience and love on a daily basis. Honoring her at the meeting were block captains along with Mayor Joseph Mengoni, Clerk Ranieri, Trustees Fernando Flores, Debbie Czajka, Jason Bianco, Marybelle Mandel, department heads and even Terri’s own family who came to surprise her.

These are the little things that make North Riverside so special...

• A man received a meal from Meals on Wheels that he couldn’t use. His neighbor was able to identify a person in need and she and her husband brought the meal to that person. The block captain said, “What a wonderful town it is where people share with other people.”

• A woman’s 9 year-old granddaughter makes cards for people on her block if they are sick, had an accident or had a surgery. Meanwhile, “Grandma" makes cookies or a dinner to bring to them as well.

• A resident went to a local retail shop to have two watches repaired but the employer had to order the batteries. The woman returned to the shop and the same nice man fixed both watches. She asked what she owed him and he said, “Nothing.” She asked why and he said, “Because you came back.” Another resident gave $100 to a mother with 2 kids in need and the mother shared it with her next door neighbor so that they could all have a special Easter. Feel free to share an “Act of Kindness” story, no matter how small. Every angel makes a big difference.

D

BE A BLOCK CAPTAIN

We would love to have you join us as one of approximately 80 other Block Captains in the Village that make our amazing Neighborhood Services program possible. You can even ask neighbor to help and become Co-Block Captains! Volunteers simply reach out to their neighbors and share resources. He/she helps to open up lines of communication to create a friendly atmosphere on the block. We need Captains in the areas below—call the Rec Office at 708-442-5515 if you’re interested:

2300 and/or

2400 block of Lathrop

2300 block of Forest

2400 block of Hainsworth

8100 block of Edgewater

2500 block of 2nd Avenue

2500 block of 5th Avenue

2400 block of 8th Avenue

2200 block of 12th Avenue

9000 block of 23rd Street.

HAVE A BLOCK PARTY!

With summer coming, consider picking a date now. Learn more about Block Parties and complete the Online Block Party Application from the Village website.

Block parties (or even casual backyard get-togethers, simple potlucks or barbecues) are a wonderful way to see old friends, bring the kids together and meet anyone who recently moved into the community!

2401

708/447-4211

Jason Bianco

Debbie Czajka

Fernando Flores

Antonio “Tony” Santucci

Terri Sarro

Nicholas Tricoci

ADMINISTRATOR

Sue Scarpiniti

This Is How We Do It

The best way to let elected officials know what we need is to meet with them in person—and the 2023 Lobby Days, held April 18-20 in Springfield, Illinois was the perfect opportunity to have one-on-one conversations with state decision-makers. Mayor Joseph Mengoni, Village Trustee Terri Sarro and Administrator Sue Scarpiniti traveled to Springfield for the event, joining over 350 local leaders, to bring North Riverside’s concerns to the state capitol. During the trip, North Riverside officials attended the House Cities and Villages Committee hearing chaired by State Representative Anthony DeLuca, where over 20 Mayors from across the state urged the committee to restore the LGDF (Local Government Distributive Fund) back to 10%. This is the share of the state income tax that is disbursed to local governments on a per capita basis. The state has been reducing our share steadily over the years to its current level of just over 6%.

Along with our push for LGDF, other priorities included state funding for the replacement of private lead service lines for North Riverside residents and to protect our red light camera revenue. “Many thanks to House Speaker/State Representative Chris Welch (pictured below with local leaders from North Riverside, LaGrange Park, Forest Park, Broadview, Maywood and River Forest), State Senator Mike Porfirio (at right), Representative Abdelnasser Rashid (top right), Representative La Shawn Ford and State Senator/Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford, who represent North Riverside and carefully listened to our concerns,” said Mayor Mengoni. “It takes all of us working together to invest in our community and help continue to build a stronger, more vibrant North Riverside.”

WE WENT WHERE DECISIONS ARE MADE: 2023 LOBBY DAYS IN SPRINGFIELD