Bridgeview Lion Ray Jachim (from left), Veteran of the Year Ron Patrick and master of ceremonies Justice Lion Brian Bernardoni. (Supplied photo)
By Carol McGowan
The Bridgeview Community Center was filled with nearly 250 people on Sunday as the Bridgeview, Argo-Summit, and Justice Lions Clubs held Super Sunday.
Sponsored by the Village of Bridgeview, and Bridgeview Mayor Steven M. Landek, Super Sunday brought out the biggest crowd for an enjoyable afternoon of celebration and fun.
The annual event has been held for nearly 25 years to honor area educators, businesses, and veterans.
This year, the honorees were: Indian Springs School District 109 Educator of the Year Kelley Shue; Argo Community High School District 217 Educator of the Year Jacques Moses; Summit Business of the Year Talerico-Martin Bakery; Justice Veteran of the Year Sgt. Ronald J. Patrick; and Peace Poster Winners Zaina Salem, Gianna Neri, and Dante Alvarez.
Shue was presented her award by District 109 Superintendent Dr. Blair Nuccio, who is also a Justice Lions Club member.
Peace Poster contest first-place winner was Zaina Salem, second-place winner was Gianna Neri, and third-place winner was Dante Alvarez. (Carol McGowan photo)
Shue has been a district teacher for 13 years. She started as a special ed paraprofessional before becoming a third-grade teacher at Lyle Elementary School. She has also taught at Brodnicki and Wilkins elementary schools. She is now a special ed teacher at Wilkins Elementary.
“Ms. Shue has a love for lifelong learning, teaching and leading,” said Nuccio. “She is an integral member of the Special Education Department and is highly respected by all her colleagues.
“She is a true go-getter and is continuously looking for interventions to utilize her students to ensure that she meets their individualized academic and emotional needs. She sets high expectations not only for her students but also for herself.
“Ms. Shue’s dedication to Wilkins Elementary School, School District 109, and, most importantly, to the children of the communities served grows stronger with every passing school day and school year. She is an outstanding teacher and an equally outstanding person outside of the classroom. She represents all of School District 109 impeccably.”
Moses, who graduated from Argo, received his award from district Superintendent Dr. William Toulios, who is an Argo-Summit Lions Club member.
“Initially joining our team as a full-time substitute, Mr. Moses quickly distinguished himself as an educator of exceptional passion and enthusiasm,” said Toulios. “His unique approach to implementing lesson plans, combined with a remarkable ability to engage and motivate students, even outside his immediate subject area, showcased a natural talent and dedication to teaching that was impossible to ignore.
“As a physical education teacher, Mr. Moses has redefined what it means to engage students in physical activity. His classes are more than just a requirement; they are an experience – filled with energy, humor, and encouragement. Jacques actively participates alongside his students, fostering a fun, inclusive environment that motivates and inspires. His approach has not only made gym class a sought-after experience but has also played a pivotal role in shaping a positive and engaging school culture.”
“Mr. Moses is more than a teacher; he is a mentor, coach, and role model. His ability to connect with students, combined with his dedication to their success, makes him an invaluable asset to Argo Community High School.”
Ron Patrick, of Justice, received his award from fellow veteran and 49-year Bridgeview Lions Club member Ray Jachim.
Argo High School student Natalie Boggs sings “God Bless America” before the ceremonies. (Carol McGowan photo)
Patrick said he joined the Air Force in 1970 rather than be drafted into the Army.
“My uncle, a retired general, advised me that would be my best option. My scores enabled me to become an Air Force firefighter and I was assigned to the 126th Air Refueling Wing. It was during the Vietnam War and it turned out to be a good decision since my wife and I were recently married and at that time she became pregnant,” he said.
“In September 1970, I went into basic training and after basic training I went to firefighter school. I really enjoyed my time in the Air Force as a firefighter. The unit I was in would support some of the fighter squadrons and my fondest memories were sitting in our firefighting foam trucks at the edge of the runways while the fighter aircraft would do touch and goes. When they kicked in the afterburners to accelerate it would give me goosebumps. This was truly a sight to see. In September of 1976, I was honorably discharged. It has been my pleasure to do my small part and proudly serve my country.”
The Business of the Year award went to Talerico Martin Bakery in Summit. The award was presented by Argo-Summit Lions Club President Tula Beene to Bob Talerico. His partner Mickey Martin passed away in 2021.
Talerico and Martin grew up together and they formed Talerico-Martin Wholesale Bakers in 1984. Today, the company employs more than 500 people.
Talerico once told the Desplaines Valley News, that “While working with sheet metal, money wasn’t always coming in quick as people often owed you. With baking, you would get paid daily.” With that, his wife started baking donuts as a business and the bakery business grew from there.
Talerico invited his family and long-time employees up with him to accept the award.
He told the crowd that he has at one point lived in Bridgeview, Justice and Summit, and was very appreciative to receive the award.
The student winners of the Peace Poster contest were also honored for their work.
First-place winner was Zaina Salem, second-place winner was Gianna Neri, and third-place winner was Dante Alvarez.
Summit Mayor Sergio Rodriguez and Bridgeview Mayor Steve Landek join Bob Talerico, family members and a host of employees from Talerico Martin Bakery. (Carol McGowan photo)