West Cook News

The Cicero Community Center recently hosted the annual Mother-Son Dance, organized by the Cicero Youth Commission and the Department of Special Events. The event embraced an '80s theme, encouraging attendees to don leg warmers, sunglasses, and vibrant outfits. This celebration attracted hundreds of mothers and sons who enjoyed an evening filled with music and memories.

Special Events Director Patty Salerno highlighted the success of the theme: “The moms absolutely love it. There are so many moms and kids that have participated in this theme and are truly enjoying it. It’s great to see moms bonding with their sons on a night like this.”

The event offered each participant an 8x10 photo, a photo booth snapshot, and a special moment for boys to create Mother's Day gifts. Dinner, dessert, and a festive raffle were also part of the evening's offerings.

Salerno credited President Larry Dominick, the Board of Trustees, and a committed team for establishing this event as a cherished tradition. She said, “Everyone works together—from finding themed items and gifts to coordinating seating.” This year, glow sticks and sunglasses were added for extra fun.

Emphasizing the event's focus on mothers and sons, Salerno stated: “This is a Mother-Son Dance. We want to keep this night special and dedicated to that bond, so unfortunately no daughters or spouses are allowed.”

Many families expressed their enthusiasm about attending annually. Misty shared her experience after receiving a ticket from a friend: “I’m just enjoying time with my sons, Evan and Ian. We’re dancing and making memories.”

Natalie Jasso noted her participation over five years: “It’s become a tradition. My daughter goes to the Father-Daughter dance, and this is our special night.”

Fany Almazan learned about the dance through a school flyer: “We just wanted to be colorful and stand out,” she said while smiling at her pre-K son.

For Marisa Tlatenchi, attending was prompted by her son's excitement: “Every year, my son is on top of it. He says, ‘Mom, the tickets are already out!’ He loves to dance—it’s the best part.”

First-time attendees Cecilia Diaz and her son Daniel Garcia made sure not to miss out again after missing last year's tickets: “We missed it last year because we took too long to buy tickets,” Diaz explained.

With songs from Madonna to Michael Jackson playing throughout the night, it was evident that this dance has evolved into more than just an event—it's now an integral tradition fostering joy within the community.