Two new faces to join Wood Dale council

Wood Dale voters have selected two newcomers to represent them in the city's first and third wards.

With all six Ward 1 precincts reporting, Gandolpho "Randy" Messina, a government solutions specialist, appears to have soundly defeated incumbent Frank Lazzara, 404 votes to 212.

Messina was unavailable Tuesday night but campaigned on his "ability to help move (Wood Dale) forward into the future as we begin to change with the expansion of the Elgin-O'Hare Expressway (I-390)." He also touted his "long record of volunteer work and reputation for strong leadership and getting things done."

In Ward 3, Ralph "Sonny" Sorrentino, a 64-year-old clinical counselor, appears to have won the right to replace longtime Councilman Dan Shawke, who did not seek re-election.

With all five Ward 3 precincts reporting, Sorrentino garnered 149 votes to edge Stefan Stevic with 143 votes.

Sorrentino called the tight race an "emotional roller coaster," saying at one point he was ready to concede when he was told he won.

"I think I won by going out there and meeting people and listening to their concerns and doing my best to offer my services if they empowered me to act on their behalf," Sorrentino said. "And I will be voting to make solid decisions on behalf of the entire third ward."