Downers Grove Magazine January/February 2024 by Hinsdale Magazine Group

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VOLUME 6 ISSUE 1 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

DOWNERSGROVEMAG.COM

STEPPING UP

Gripjoy Socks Founder Alison Miles WHERE ARE THEY NOW? DISTRICT 99 ATHLETIC ACHIEVEMENTS JIM PETERIK & IDES OF MARCH

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LETTER from THE ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Ushering in the New Year Downers Grove is a small world. I am sure you have heard that one before. In the last sixteen years I have lived here, the game of six degrees of separation often comes down to one or two degrees. Take, for example, Alison Miles, owner of Gripjoy Socks, who graces our cover this month. One of our editors brought the story idea up almost a year ago, and the time was now to publish her journey. After meeting Alison for our photo shoot, we determined that our paths had crossed many times before, from the Downers Grove Junior Woman's Club to mutual friends. I am proud to share her story with the community on how she (and her family) have turned her idea into an American success story. It was an exciting fall for several athletes in our community. Their hard work, dedication, and sacrifices they endured all season long (really all year) paid off. Congratulations to the cross country teams that competed at the highest levels and the Downers Grove North Trojans for their successful run at the football playoff championship. Our team enjoyed paying tribute to these student-athletes in the pages that follow. Did you know that if you ever saw The Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show, either live or on YouTube, you saw Ludwig Drums? Bill Ludwig's grandfather started Ludwig Drums in 1909. The company took a lot of twists and turns throughout the years, but today, WFLIII Drum Co. continues to make hand-crafted drums in the USA. Ludwig, a local resident, walks us through how the company came to be and continues to grow. Moving on from drums to guitars. Scott Jonlich, Owner & Publisher of Hinsdale Magazine Group, had the oppor-

tunity to catch up with Jim Peterik of The Ides of March for an in-depth interview on his storied music career. Peterik might be best known as the founder of the band Survivor, which busted through the rock music scene in the 80s. One of his greatest achievements? He was co-writer of the anthem "Eye of the Tiger," the theme from the 1982 film Rocky III. See Ides of March in person this spring on March 15 at the Norris Theater in St. Charles. One of the favorite parts of publishing a local magazine is hearing feedback from our readers on stories that surprised them, moved them, or simply enjoyed. Therefore, we decided to catch up with some of the "subjects" of prior issues to see where they are today. Dr. Kevin Russell, featured in our premiere issue in September 2019, discusses District 58 and the many successes that have occurred through the years. Although both travel near and far, we also caught up with local photographer Josh Merrill from our March 2021 issue and world traveler next door Don Parrish, featured only nine months ago in our March 2023 edition. This special visit down memory lane is a testament to our community's unique and varied stories! We will meet again in March as the warmth and sunshine begin to break through. Until then, stay healthy, safe, and warm. Happy reading.

Sincerely,

Anne Healy

Associate Publisher anne@HinsdaleMag.com

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New year • New home • New memories Thinking about making a move to a warmer climate in 2024? We have a national network of real estate experts we collaborate with so your move is seamless from start to finish.

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FOUNDER & PUBLISHER Scott Jonlich sjonlich@HinsdaleMag.com

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER & EDITOR Anne Healy anne@HinsdaleMag.com

MANAGING EDITOR Larry Atseff larry@HinsdaleMag.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Maureen Callahan Valerie Hardy Anna Hughes

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Rachel Pavlovich Jennifer Frencl

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Adam Andrzejewski Chuck Fieldman Jeff Vorva

FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHERS Madeline Craig Victor Hilitski Greg Kozlick Carolina Menapace Laura Meyer

ADVERTISING SALES Brian Ade Candice Kuhnen Renee Lawrence Cynthia Maquet

Hinsdale Magazine Group 3 Grant Square#201 Hinsdale, IL 60521 630-655-3400 www.DownersGroveMag.com No person, organization or publication can copy or re-produce the content in this magazine or any part of this publication without a written consent from the publisher. The publisher, authors, contributors and designers reserve their rights with regards to copyright of their work. Downers Grove Magazine assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information. The information contained about each individual, event or organization has been provided by such individual, event organizers or organization. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Downers Grove Magazine. Comments are welcome, but they should be on-topic and well-expressed. Copyright ©2024 Hinsdale Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved.

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

All the Best to You in 2024!

Happy New Year from Rizza Cars

January/February 2024

Contents

16 TO DOS Winter Festivities

19 #WEAREDG The Ebersold Family

25 SPOTLIGHT Ludwig Drums

28 HOME GROWN

Downers Grove North Football

31 COVER Alison Miles, Gripjoy Socks

HOME GROWN

35 ARCHIVES Where are they now?

40 SPORTS Cross Country Standouts

ARCHIVES

44 ARTS & THEATRE Jim Peterik

49 FOOD & DRINK Oak Brook Dining

53 SNAPSHOT Education

62 TRAVEL Iceland

64 COMMUNITY SCENE

Grove Express

Tree Lighting DuPage Foundation

SPORTS - PHOTO BY GINA CHEBOUB ON THE COVER: ALISON MILES, FOUNDER OF GRIPJOY SOCKS PHOTO BY CAROLINA MENAPACE

STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

New Year, New Home Kick start your real estate journey in 2024 with the expertise and guidance of your trusted Downers Grove real estate team, the Laura McGreal Group. Whether you are looking to buy or sell in the new year, Laura and her team can help you navigate the changing market and offer a wide range of services, making the real estate process a positive and successful experience.

Year in Review LD

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HELLO WINTER Willowbrook Ice Arena Public Skate

Fridays from 7:15 - 8:45 PM and Sundays from 1:30-3 PM willowbrookicearena.com For ice skating that isn’t dependent on the weather, head to the Willowbrook Ice Arena to learn new skating skills or sharpen up old ones! All ages can enjoy this public skating opportunity for a low cost through February. Dates and times are subject to change; check the website for the most up-to-date information.

Snow Tubing at Mount Hoy CHEF FEST

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

Open through February on weekends and school holidays. dupageforest.org

The Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville has over 1300 acres of natural beauty, making it one of the most spectacular spots for winter activities in the Chicagoland area. Once there’s enough snow on the ground (usually at least 3 inches), Mount Hoy opens for an 800-foot slide down the hill. Inner tube rentals are available for $10/day.

Burns Field Ice Rink in Hinsdale

Weather permitting villageofhinsdale.org The Village of Hinsdale Parks and Recreation Department offers access to a temporary ice rink in Burns Field Park,

WINTERFEST LAKE GENEVA PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT LAKE GENEVA

located at 320 N. Vine St. Be aware of signs at the park and other media updates to know whether or not the rink is open. Be safe, and have fun!

“Fiddler on the Roof” at the Drury Lane Theatre

January 24 - March 24 drurylanetheatre.com Enter the village of Anatevka, where Tevye, a milkman, lives with his wife and five strongwilled daughters. With the help of his tight-knit Jewish community, Tevye tries to protect his daughters and instill them with traditional values in the face of political and social change in Czarist Russia. This classic musical was honored with nine Tony Awards during its initial Broadway run, including “Best Musical.” Showtimes vary by date.

Winter Fest Lake Geneva

January 24 - February 4 visitlakegeneva.com Visit Lake Geneva, and the City of Lake Geneva proudly presents the 29th Annual Winterfest, featuring the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship. This is the only national snow sculpting championship in the United States and features the top sculpting teams nationwide. Admission to this event is free.

Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation’s Chef Fest

February 1 at Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace eehealth.org Come out to support Elmhurst Hospital Memorial Foundation with Chef Fest, a fundraising event featuring a variety of signature menu items produced by chefs from prominent local restaurants, bakeries, and caterers. Proceeds from Chef Fest support future service enhancements to ensure Elmhurst Hospital maintains its commitment to delivering state-of-the-art healthcare to the community.

Downers Grove Ice Fest

February 2 - February 4 downtowndg.org Enjoy live ice carving demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday at the Main Street Train Station. Enjoy all the creative ice sculptures lining the sidewalks of downtown

Downers Grove, and make sure to stop in your favorite boutiques and restaurants.

Westmont Park District’s Winter Beer Festival

February 17 from 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM westmontparks.org Don’t let the cold stop you from grabbing a cold one! At the 2024 Winter Beer Festival, participants will receive 20 four-ounce pours of various craft beer selections. The event will also have heated and lighted tents, bonfires, outdoor seating, and food trucks.

The 57th Annual Elmhurst University Jazz Festival

February 22 - February 25 elmhurst.edu This is a musical extravaganza you don’t want to miss. Elmhurst University calls this annual festival “a special happening: a rare blend of educational enrichment and exciting entertainment.” The event will be both in person at Hammerschimdt Chapel at Elmhurst University, but it also will be available online to stream.

ICE FEST COURTESY OF 726 VISUALS

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

#WEAREDG | DOWNERSGROVEMAG.COM

from farm TO PARK The Ebersold family’s generous donation of land to the Downers Grove Park District leaves a lasting legacy BY VALERIE HARDY

ocated in the center of Downers Grove, Ebersold Park is the only park in town named after the family who owned it, explained Kent Ebersold. Kent is the grandson of Fred and Marguerite Ebersold, who sold the 18 acres of land on which the park is situated to the Downers Grove Park District in the mid-1980s for $1 million.

A WATER COLOR PAINTING OF THE ORIGINAL FARM HOUSE

Prior to the property’s sale, the Ebersolds’ farm was Kent said his one of the last FRED AND MARGUERITE EBERSOLD father, the rest of operational WITH THEIR SONS KEITH AND their family, and farms in the KEN CIRCA 1940S he “were taught to village. Fred work hard and be and Marguerite a family that is grew up in proud of this River Forest town, love our before moving neighbors, and be to Downers good members of Grove to start the community.” their farm at what is now the southwest corner of Main Street It is because of their care for their comand 59th Street. They grew corn, soy- munity that the eldest Ebersolds beans, and winter wheat and raised decided to sell their property to the hogs and chickens on the farm. They Park District under the condition that also raised their family, which it remain open land. Keeping nature included two sons (Keith and Ken) on and recreation at the center of the the farm “from the time Main Street land’s use was important to the Eberbecame a dirt/gravel road south of solds. “I know my grandparents would be very proud of the many, many peo55th Street,” said Kent, Keith’s son.

ple from the community using this space as a park – walking, walking their dogs and babies, playing soccer or lacrosse or flag football or sledding or having a picnic or enjoying the jungle gym set,” Kent said. While Ebersold Park is used for a multitude of purposes, it is, perhaps, best known for its sledding hill. Anyone

EBERSOLD PARK IS A SLEDDING DESTINATION EVERY WINTER.

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

driving down Main Street past the park on a snowy winter day is likely to see a crowd of children and families out sledding. The big hill on the property was used for sledding going back to the time the Ebersolds bought the farm. “My grandfather used to love seeing the kids from all over town come and sled,” Kent recalled fondly. Based on its location, the park was originally named 59th and Main Street Park. However, in 2003, the Park Board unanimously voted to rename it after the Ebersolds given their significant community support and generosity. An article in the “Downers Grove Reporter” from April 2003 stated that “a park can be named after its geographical location, historical events or individuals who make ‘exceptional’ contributions.”

sister Joanne Orozco, and cousin Nancy Bifulco – Ken’s daughter – and her husband, Ed, also live in town. Until a few months ago, his other cousin, Donna Fletcher – Ken’s other daughter – and her husband, Gary, also lived in Downers Grove.

Many other Ebersold descendants still reside in Downers Grove. In addition to Kent and his wife, Leslie, his mother,

– KENT EBERSOLD

Whether the fourth generation of Ebersolds will keep the Downers Grove tradition alive remains to be determined. Currently, Kent’s son Jack, a University of Alabama graduate, is living in Arkansas and working in management for Walmart Corporate. His other son, Sam, played collegiate basketball for University of

KENT EBERSOLD’S GRANDPARENTS, FRED AND MARGUERITE, STANDING IN THEIR CORNFIELD.

AMONG THE LEADERSHIP TEAM AT GLORIA DEI LUTHERAN CHURCH ARE 75TH ANNIVERSARY COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSON MARY RAKOWSKI, CHARTER MEMBER MAREN HUBER, COUNCIL PRESIDENT JIM GUNNER, SENIOR PASTOR TIM ROBERTSON, CHARTER MEMBER CARL OTTERNESS, AND COUNCIL MEMBER TIM TLUSTY.

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

Kent, on the other hand, might be what some would consider hyperlocal. His wife and he live less than a mile from Ebersold Park, which also happens to be the location of his office. Kent is the third generation of Ebersolds working within their eponymous family business: Ebersold, Inc.

“Downers Grove is a special place, and we are proud that our name will carry on long after we are gone.”

The Ebersold family epitomized that last criterion, and their contributions have continued within the community for four generations to date. Although Kent’s father, Keith, passed away in 2019, his mother, Joan, the family’s current matriarch, is “still going strong at 90 years young,” Kent shared.

Wisconsin – Oshkosh and is now on the coaching staff at Southern Illinois University. Joanne’s son, Ben, and Nancy’s daughter, Olivia, are both currently attending college out of state.

“This is the advertising, marketing, and print firm my grandfather [Fred] founded in 1932,” Kent explained, and it is currently operated out of the house adjacent to Ebersold Park. The original farmhouse was torn down by the Park District years ago, but the office is housed in the home Kent’s Uncle Ken and Aunt June built that still stands at 6040 Main St. Kent loves living and working in the community and being able to see the park each day when he goes to the office. “Downers Grove is a special place, and we are proud that our name will carry on long after we are gone.”

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SPOTLIGHT | DOWNERSGROVEMAG.COM

THE BEAT GOES ON Downers Grove’s Bill Ludwig continues his family’s legacy in the drum business

BILL LUDWIG SHOWCASES ONE OF THE WORLDCLASS INSTRUMENTS HIS COMPANY, WFLIII DRUMS, MANUFACTURED. PHOTO BY MADELINE CRAIG

BY VALERIE HARDY

illiam F. Ludwig III quite literally marches to the beat of his own drum. Known as Bill or B3, Ludwig proudly wears the title of third-generation drum-maker. Ludwig’s grandfather, William F. Ludwig Sr. (nicknamed “Senior”), played the drums in a circus and toured with a vaudeville act during the offseason. Vaudeville music was faster than the music he played previously, and “he could barely keep time with it using the wooden footboard and beater available,” Ludwig said. With the goal of increasing ease and speed of drumming, in 1909, Senior and his brother, Theobald, began Ludwig & Ludwig out of their garage. They invented a bass drum pedal that folded, “which was unheard of at the time,” Ludwig explained, and it became the company’s first major product. As business increased, Ludwig & Ludwig moved to a small shop, added tuning and repairing drums to their repertoire, and became “the go-to guys. If you had a problem with your drums, you’d go see the Ludwig brothers,” Ludwig said. Senior also invented a foot-tuner for the timpani, which is still patented today. “Grandpa was a drummer and an inventive guy, so he kept making

things he needed and wanted and others needed and wanted,” Ludwig said, including cutting-edge drums. When Theobald died during the 1918 flu epidemic, Senior renamed the business Ludwig Drum Company. This was during the silent film era, and Senior used his drums to make sound effects such as gunshots to enhance the moviegoing experience. However, the advent of “talkie” films and the subse-

quent Great Depression took a toll on drumming and drum manufacturing. In 1930, Senior made the difficult decision to sell his beloved business. He continued to work for the business, but he did not always agree with “the corporate types,” Ludwig said. Senior co-founded a new company, WFL Drum Co., with his son and namesake William F. Ludwig II in 1937. The company went “from the basement of a DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

corner building to the next floor, and the next floor, then the whole building, then the building next door,” Ludwig said of the business’s growth. Already the leading drum company at the time, the family’s business peaked in the 1960s after The Beatles’ Ringo Starr played a drum kit branded with the Ludwig name on the Ed Sullivan Show. In an online video, Starr explained how he procured his first Ludwig drums from a store in London, and the large Ludwig label was almost removed. He asked for it to be left on though, because he “loved anything American.” Starr thought the “sound was great,” too, and with his and other popular artists’ endorsements, the Ludwigs’ business boomed for years, and Ludwig had a front row seat. “I started working for the company in third grade,” Ludwig, a 1973 graduate of Downers Grove North High School, said. Following in his father and grandfather’s footsteps, Ludwig played percussion. When Herrick Junior High School’s band director called roll on the first day of school and asked, “Ludwig – as in the drums?” Ludwig answered affirmatively. The director assigned him to play the timpani, even though he had previously played bass drums.

The “stable of stars” phrase kept running through Ludwig’s mind, and it became the first of five biennial thematic photoshoots for which he invited over 20 of the brand’s top musicians to convene in Chicago. Shot in 1977 in front of a barn, the final image included the headline, “Ludwig’s Stable of Stars Doesn’t Horse Around!” The musicians, including four who traveled from Europe, paid for their own flights, a true testament to the Ludwigs and their custom crafted instruments. The fourth photoshoot marked the company’s 75th anniversary, and its theme was “Class Act.” A number of jazz drummers joined the usual line-up of rock drummers, totaling more than 50 musicians pictured. All wore tuxedos and raised glasses of champagne. “People were astonished that I had that many bands of stature,” Ludwig said.

tered a photo of his grandfather, on the back of which was written, “Senior starting over.” Senior had been 59 in the photo, the same age Ludwig was at the time. Having considered reentering the drum business for a while, Ludwig interpreted the photo as a sign. History repeating itself, Ludwig opened WFLIII Drums in 2014. A Kansas-based vintage Ludwig drum collector and investment banker offered to help finance the new business, and Ludwig decided to headquarter WFLIII in Kansas due to “the central location for shipping raw materials and goods.” Charlie Watts of the Rolling Stones requested one of WFLIII Drums’ inaugural wooden snare drums, and Ludwig hand-delivered it to Watts where he was performing in Ohio. Starr received the first aluminum snare drum produced under Ludwig’s new brand.

Ludwig began inviting roadies as well, and he brought his company’s sound engineers. “They started talking to each other, which was really beneficial,” Ludwig said, highlighting the outcome of finessing product designs accordingly.

“I just went back to the basics, and it’s working,” Ludwig said of WFLIII’s production approach. “I make drums using the thinnest 6-ply shell, the way my grandfather did, but with modern-day technologies.”

In 1981, the Ludwigs once again sold their business. Ludwig worked in other industries, until he encoun-

Visit wfliiidrums.com to learn more about the Ludwig family and WFLIII products and events.

Ludwig continued drumming in Downers Grove North’s symphonic, wind ensemble, and marching bands and in numerous local 4th of July parades. Each summer, teenaged Ludwig worked in a different department at the company, and he was hired on in earnest after college. “I was never pushed into [the family business],” Ludwig said. “I did it because I loved it.” Ludwig’s father named him marketing manager and head of artist relations. He built up an impressive roster of endorsers, including Led Zeppelin and Aerosmith. When tasked with identifying a line-up of four top endorsers for an upcoming advertising campaign, Ludwig thought to himself, “I assembled quite a stable of stars.” 26

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

IN THE 1970S AND 1980S, BILL LUDWIG COORDINATED FIVE BIENNIAL THEMATIC PHOTO SHOOTS, INCLUDING THIS ONE, FEATURING WORLD-RENOWNED DRUMMERS WHO WERE LOYAL TO HIS FAMILY'S BRAND.

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HOME GROWN | DOWNERSGROVEMAG.COM A FIRED-UP DOWNERS GROVE NORTH FOOTBALL TEAM RUNS ON THE FIELD BEFORE THE CLASS 7A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME. PHOTO BY JEFF VORVA

A Special Place Downers Grove North coach happy for the community after a big finish

BY JEFF VORVA

t’s funny that a man who graduated from Downers Grove South is now one of the toasts of the town at Downers Grove North.

Coach Joe Horeni, a South grad, helped guide the 2023 North football team to the Illinois High School Association Class 7A state football championship game. Though the Trojans lost to Mount Carmel, 35-10, on Nov. 25 at Hancock Stadium in Normal, it marked just the third time in school history the program made it to the final game and first since winning it in 2004.

He said he could identify what these players are going through in the community.

Sophomore quarterback Owen Lansu was proud of the way the community rallied around the team during the playoffs. “It motivated us to know that everyone was cheering for us,” he said. “Downtown, they had Downers Grove North flags all over. We felt the support the whole way through.”

“The same things they have gone through as kids, I’ve gone through,” he said. “I played with the Panthers and pretty much all of these kids played with the Panthers. We’re all from around here. That’s what’s The Trojans finished the season up unique about Downers Grove.” at 11-3.

Horeni may have grown up with great disdain for North when he was playing for South, but right now, his attitude is that no matter what the school, Downers Grove is Downers Grove. “Downers Grove is a special place,” the coach said. “I’m glad that we were able to go this far. I think the kids know that the standard now is to get back here and take home the big trophy.”

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

DOWNERS GROVE NORTH PLAYERS ACCEPT THE RUNNER-UP TROPHY AFTER A LOSS TO MOUNT CARMEL IN THE CLASS 7A TITLES GAME. PHOTO BY JEFF VORVA

TROJAN JUNIORS ETHAN KIST, LEFT, AND CHARLIE CRUSE WRAP UP MOUNT CARMEL’S KEVIN GARDNER DURING THE CLASS 7A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME ON NOV. 25. PHOTO BY JEFF VORVA

able to prove who we are and what we are,” the linebacker said. “We’ve been friends for a long time and were able to stay together this whole season.”

They opened up the season with three tough games and got by with a 27-22 win over Wheaton St. Francis, a 35-13 win over rival Downers Grove South, and a rare 31-7 win over Glenbard West – snapping a 16-game losing streak to the Hilltoppers. At that point, people started taking notice of the Trojans and they started gaining confidence. They were 5-0 when they suffered back-to-back losses to York and Lyons and twoway starter Noah Battle was injured for both of those games. Once he was back on the field, the Trojans rolled to six more wins before running up against Mount Carmel, who was the defending state cham-

pion and ranked first in Class 7A by the Associated Press all season. “I’m obviously really proud of our team,” Horeni said. “It’s been a great ride. We did not return a lot of starters after last year’s season. A lot of young guys played for us and our senior leadership did a fantastic job. A lot of guys stepped up who didn’t get a lot of snaps last year and were leaders this year. “They set the standard as leaders.” Defensive standout Cael Brezina thought the team proved doubters wrong. “The expectations on this team were not very high, but I thought we were

Life around the North athletic department has been good, lately. In 2022-23, the boys basketball team won 32 games and finished fourth in the state in Class 4A. In early November, the boys cross country team finished first in the state in Class 3A, while the girls cross country team finished second in the state. Now this. “The basketball team had a great run, and others thrived off their success,” Horeni said. “Our girls cross country team took second in state, and our boys cross country team won the whole thing. Our baseball team had a really good year last year as well. It’s exciting that football can hold up our end of the bargain and be a part of it. “It’s a great group and this town loves winning high school sports and we’re excited to contribute to the success.”

COACH JOE HORENI GIVES A TALK BEFORE THE TROJANS HIT THE FIELD FOR A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME AGAINST MOUNT CARMEL. PHOTO BY JEFF VORVA

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Gripping

JOY Alison Miles jumped into socks one foot at a time

BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN

bout five years ago, Downers Grove resident Alison Miles began feeling tired and weaker than usual. Simple tasks such as lifting a laundry basket had become difficult. Shortly thereafter, she was diagnosed with Pompe disease - a relatively rare genetic disorder that causes progressive muscle weakness. The body is unable to break down glycogen in the cells. Over time, muscles waste away. A diagnosis of Pompe disease used to carry little hope. About a decade and a half ago, a treatment to slow the progression was discovered, and new drugs have come to market, for which Alison has participated in clinical trials.

contemplated the mountain of information presented at the meetings, Alison had a realization. “I just thought, ‘Okay, this is my life now,’” she remembered. “An ugly diagnosis that will progress, with a lifetime ahead of ugly socks that look like I just left the hospital. At that moment, Chad looked at me and said, ‘Why don’t we design our own socks and start a business?’” Before they boarded their flight that afternoon, they came up with a sock design that contained the all-important grips. But these were flatter and less pronounced than what were on the market. “I wanted a sock that wouldn’t be noticeable if I took my shoes off at someone else’s house,” said Alison.

It’s much easier to slip and fall with this condition. On the same cocktail napkin Socks with grips on the botthat held their sock design, tom - designed to create tracthey scratched out possible ALISON AND CHAD MILES, WITH SONS HUNTER AND WILL, tion between the sock and company names. The pair AND DOG MONTANA floor - are necessary. While landed on Gripjoy. It accugrip socks already existed, rately described their sentithey were bulky and difficult to fit in a regular shoe. Also, ments. “To us, it made sense,” said Alison. “Even though the grips felt too pronounced to Alison, which made there’s this diagnosis we’re now going to deal with, we can them uncomfortable. still grab joy from life.” Shortly after the diagnosis, Alison and her husband, Chad, flew to North Carolina to attend Duke University’s annual Pompe research conference. While waiting to catch the flight home, they found themselves in an airport restaurant with a few hours to kill. As they

“Everyone has something they’re trying to get through,” she knows. “You can still decide to find joy.” Gripjoy went from an airport cocktail napkin idea to a company in just six months. Alison’s former career in internaDOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

GRIPJOY NOW LOGS 100,000 CUSTOMERS.

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“I started this business for a logical reason. I needed no-slip socks and couldn’t find any I liked.” – ALISON MILES, ON THE PRACTICALITY OF HER COMPANY, GRIPJOY

tional trade and product management, paired with Chad’s financial and analytical background, made the perfect combination of skills to bring the project to life. Alison posted Gripjoy’s launch on Facebook. It was also the first time she spoke about her diagnosis. She was pleasantly amazed at the outpouring of support and encouragement. Any uncertainties about the business quickly vanished as the inventory rapidly sold. “I was a little surprised, not only at how many people needed socks but also that they were willing to buy them from me!” she laughed. Their first product – a threepack of socks in shades of grey, available in two sizes, sold out quickly. Not long after, a shipment arrived that would no longer fit in their garage – their original storage space. Initially, they rented a warehouse space in downtown Downers Grove, where they fulfilled customer orders themselves. As the endeavor expanded, they rapidly outgrew that space, too.

The business is not only a partnership but also a family affair. Hunter and Will have weighed in on design decisions. They also accompany Alison on outreach projects to DuPagePads and Burgess Square Healthcare & Rehab Center, where socks are always needed. “We see this as family first entrepreneurship,” said Alison. Occasionally, Alison and Chad will leave an opportunity on the table if they feel it will encroach on family time. “We want to grow the business but also realize this time with our children is precious and want to be there to fully support them.” Now five years in, Gripjoy offers socks for adults and children in eight different styles with 15-20 colors for the most popular variations. The outstanding quality Gripjoy holds over similar products is smaller, less noticeable grip pads on attractive socks with fun colors and designs. They fit comfortably inside athletic and casual shoes. And they look like any other sock. That vision has been realized. These breathable socks contain responsibly sourced cotton and are cozy while still offering the perfect fit. Between individual and commercial accounts in the United States and Canada, such as hospitals, yoga studios, and maternity shops, Gripjoy has over 100,000 customers.

GRIPJOY SOCKS HAVE SMALLER GRIP PADS THAN COMPARABLE BRANDS, WHICH MAKES THEM MORE COMFORTABLE

These days, the business is run from their Downers Grove home, with the actual socks and order fulfillment processed from a warehouse in Utah. Gripjoy has earned a place of note in a crowded market. So far, so good. But that’s not to say there haven’t been moments of doubt along the way, especially in the beginning. Alison recalled when the first shipment of socks arrived on their driveway. “I remember wondering if this was crazy and if we would end up with enough socks for three lifetimes,” she laughed. Although there has been much success, there have been leaner years than others. It’s all part of running a business. And the hurdles have not been without purpose. The couple hopes their 10-year-old twins, Hunter and Will, will one day understand the significance of Gripjoy. “We hope our sons will be willing to try new things and take calculated risks,” said Alison.

“It’s shocking how many people need this type of sock,” said Alison. She is mindful of the vision that brought about the business. 10% of Gripjoy’s annual sales go directly to various organizations that research Pompe and other muscular degenerative conditions. “Many people have reached out to me to compliment the socks,” said Alison. “One woman even claims they have changed her life!” The company has helped Alison and her family deal with Pompe disease by ushering in a positive purpose to a difficult diagnosis. “Gripjoy helps me cope with Pompe. It has turned my diagnosis into something productive,” she smiled. To learn more about Gripjoy, visit gripjoy.com.

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where are

They Now?

Downers Grove Magazine catches up with local personalities featured over the years BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN & VALERIE HARDY

DR. KEVIN RUSSELL

September 2019 Edition

DR. KEVIN RUSSELL VISITS A KINDERGARTEN CLASSROOM AT LESTER SCHOOL.

District 58 has made some significant accomplishments over the last few years, largely due to the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Kevin Russell. Featured in the premiere issue of Downers Grove Magazine and his first few months on the job - Dr. Russell has guided the district through some extensive accomplishments, including a Strategic Plan review and launch (Fall 2023), implementing full-day kindergarten (Fall 2023) and the two-way dual language program (Fall 2022), updating or replacing eight school playgrounds (2021-2023), partnering with the Village of Downers Grove on a New Civic Center to house administrative staff, and creating a systematic process to review curriculum resources. In November 2022, a $179 million referendum with 67% of the vote was successfully passed. "These accomplishments were all centered on what's best for students balanced with keeping to our mission to be fiscally responsible to taxpayers," said Dr. Russell.

FRIENDS OF THE EDWARDS HOUSE

March 2020 Edition

Some of our town's most obvious charm is found in its historic buildings. Friends of the Edwards House (FOEH), Downers Grove's local landmarking society, continues its work in historic home preservation. Currently, there are two homes that have completed the application process and are waiting for approval. A third, the William S Barnhart House, 5408 Carpenter, was landmarked in December. FOEH continues to hold events relevant to Downers Grove history and is always open to new volunteers. The FOEH annual calendar, which features several historically landmarked homes in town, is for sale at Anderson's Book Store or also on the organization's website: friendsoftheedwardshouse.com.

THE BARNHART HOUSE IS FEATURED IN THE 2024 FOEH ANNUAL CALENDAR.

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LAUREN LOEB, AMBER QUIRK, AND CANDICE RICHMOND

November 2020 Edition

CANDICE RICHMOND AND AMBER QUIRK ATTEND A BREAST CANCER RETREAT TOGETHER.

When these three "breast friends" were featured, they were using what they learned through their own breast cancer journeys to support other local women diagnosed with breast cancer. Though Lauren Loeb recently moved to Atlanta, the trio still spread their support whenever possible. In 2021, Loeb hosted a large health-focused fundraiser, which raised over $18,000 for Breast Cancer Research Foundation to commemorate being five years cancer-free. Richmond recently attended the Pink Agenda fundraiser for breast cancer research, and Quirk plans to help coordinate a Partners for Pink golf outing and continue supporting the Clear Ribbon Foundation, a local nonprofit for widows and widowers who have lost their spouses to cancer. All three women are beyond grateful to report their follow-up scans continue to show no evidence of cancer! JOSH MERRILL

March 2021 Edition Josh Merrill continues to chase new scenery to photograph around the globe while teaching others how to see things through a similar lens. Beyond leading workshops and exhibiting at fine arts festivals, Merrill continues to find joy in new adventures and pushing himself to try new things, such as swimming in frigid Lake Superior ice caves while photographing scenes above and below the surface. Last fall, he chased exceptional fall colors in the hardwood forests of Maine and amid the Aspen Groves of Colorado. Tag along with Downers Grove Fine Arts Festival's 2023 Best in Show winner on one of his new workshops in the Faroe Islands in January or Iceland in February. To check out his work or learn about upcoming workshops, visit joshmerrillphotography.com.

JOSH MERRILLAND STUDENTS PHOTOGRAPHED AT A WORKSHOP AT THE GRAND STAIRCASEESCALANTE IN UTAH.

KEVIN BOZEMAN

September 2021 Edition Comedian Kevin Bozeman has been keeping the laughs coming! Since we last featured him, he has had two comedy albums released. The first album is "Black Superman," and the other is his comedy special, "God's Work," released this past summer on Helium Comedy Studios on YouTube. Both albums can be streamed on Spotify. Bozeman was also featured on "Comics Unleashed with Byron Allen" on CBS and is a featured performer on Canadian CBC Television's "Halifax ComedyFest." Bozeman looks forward to continuing to perform comedy locally and throughout North America in the year ahead. COMEDIAN KEVIN BOZEMAN CONTINUES TO ENTERTAIN AUDIENCES NEAR AND FAR.

KENDALL GRETSCH

November 2021 Edition The Downers Grove native and Olympic gold medalist swept into first place in the final seconds of the Tokyo 2020 summer Paralympic triathlon - and into Olympic history forever! This winter finds the world-class athlete training for and competing in her other love - Nordic skiing. She also keeps up her cross-training, however, as she qualified for the Paris 2024 summer games! USA's Paralympic team has plans to attend a triathlon training camp in Vichy, southeast of Paris, in the weeks leading up to the games to adjust to the time zone and have the opportunity to train with their French competitors. Downers Grove Magazine wishes Gretsch Godspeed!

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

WORLD-CLASS ATHLETE KENDALL GRETSCH CONTINUES HER NORDIC SKIING TRAINING.

JO SHAW

November 2021 Edition

JO SHAW'S STORY OF BEING AN ARMY NURSE AND A MOTHER OF FIVE RESONATED WITH OUR READERS.

Profiled a few years ago, Jo Shaw is the 101-year-old WWII nurse and widowed wife of Purple Heart POW Elwood Shaw. She's had two big birthdays since then, which were well-celebrated by her five children and many grand and great-grandchildren, whom she still checks on often. This Downers Grove centurion is still in her same home of 66 years. It was built in 1922 – the year she was born. Dementia claims parts - but not all - of her days. She laughs a lot while going through her daily routine with her caregivers and neighbors, who are like another family that constantly check on her and include her in their lives. She's still healthy, living equally in the moment and a century of great memories.

MURIEL ANDERSON

March 2022 Edition

Downers Grove native Muriel Anderson is still based in Nashville. But she and sidekick Capt'n Bryan made it back to town in November for their annual Saturday After Thanksgiving Concert, now a holiday tradition for many Downers Grovers. It was an evening of fantastic acoustic music and stories. The duo recently released Sailing Dreams, their new album inspired by time spent sailing up the east coast from Long Island to Penobscot Bay, Maine. Be sure to check out their recently released board game of the same name, in which players travel the East Coast through experiences like catching lobster and learning sailor's knots. Actual shells from featured beaches and sand are included!

AMY LISS

CHECK OUT MURIEL ANDERSON'S NEW ALBUM, SAILING DREAMS, AND HER RECENTLY RELEASED BOARD GAME OF THE SAME NAME.

July 2022 Edition

AMY LISS VISITS WITH MEMBERS OF THE U.S. DEAF WOMEN'S NATIONAL SOCCER TEAM.

Amy Liss was still feeling the isolating effects of the pandemic when we last caught up with her. Now, she is back to a full schedule of spreading her message of gratitude, positivity, and service. This past summer, she spoke – through interpreters – to the U.S. Deaf Women's National Soccer Team and served on the staff for the Julie Foudy Sports Leadership Academy for the 10th year. Liss returned to weekly volunteering at Hillcrest Elementary School as well. This year, Liss plans to step out of her comfort zone as she and her family begin to search for long-term caregivers for her future. She will balance this with escaping to Arizona this winter, watching friends play collegiate and professional sports, and spending quality time with her beloved nieces and nephew. Of course, Liss will also continue to embody her motto: "Live Each Day with an Attitude of Gratitude!"

MARK HARRIS

November 2022 Edition Mark Harris had completed a marathon in each of the 50 states when last featured. Since then, he has hung up his running shoes but is still seeking active challenges. He canoed in the Missouri River 340 (a 340-mile race from Kansas City to St. Louis) in August with his friend from Downers Grove, Chris Erickson, and a childhood friend from Sandwich, Illinois, Dave Vick. "We made it 170 miles (to Columbia) before severe weather canceled the remaining part of the race," Harris said. "It was much more difficult than I anticipated, but a great challenge!" Harris is also considering taking up biking.

MARK HARRIS (MIDDLE), ALONG WITH TWO FRIENDS, COMPETES IN THE MISSOURI RIVER 340. DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

DON PARRISH

March 2023 Edition

DON PARRISH, MTP FOUNDER CHARLES VELEY, AND FELLOW EXTREME TRAVELER BOB BONIFAS CELEBRATE AT THE 2023 MTP SUMMIT FINAL BANQUET.

Our favorite world traveler next door, Don Parrish, continues his jet-setting ways. He attended the Most Traveled People (MTP) Summit in Equatorial New Guinea with 140 extreme travelers from 40 countries. A highlight was a visit from around 20 "mostly tame" chimpanzees that charged into the grassy area where the travelers met. Parrish said one chimp took him by the hand and played with his beard. Another standout moment was a round of trivia entitled "Where is Don?" Parrish was touched that everyone knew him, even if they had never met before. He also attended FreedomFest in Memphis and flew to Austin to meet the 2023 winner of his namesake scholarship. As for looking ahead, Parrish said, "I don't want to talk about next year. [It's] always better to talk about what you have achieved."

THE JOHNSON FAMILY, CLASSIC CINEMAS

July 2023 Edition

We had the privilege of featuring the family behind Classic Cinemas – Willis, Shirley, and Chris Johnson – on the cover of our July 2023 issue after they received the Historians of the Year recognition from the Downers Grove Historical Society. Sadly, shortly thereafter, Willis' health declined following a fall, and he died on Aug. 16 at age 86. His well-lived life was honored in many ways, including through a Celebration of Life fittingly held at the Tivoli Theatre on Sept. 2. The event was open to the public, and people from both coasts, Canada, and beyond came to pay their respects. The Tivoli also played some of Willis' favorite movies, including "The Way We Were" and "Gone With the Wind," to honor him. The week before Willis passed, the Johnsons, "but really my dad," Willis' son Chris said, had been nominated for a film industry Hall of Fame recognition. In October, Chris traveled to Miami to accept their induction into the Inaugural Erik Lomis ShowEast Hall of Fame. Willis' wife, Shirley, recently moved to a nearby independent living community and is settling into her new environment and enjoying socializing with other residents. Chris is excited about filmgoer attendance returning to pre-pandemic status and having more films to screen now that the screenwriters' strike is over. He is also looking forward to traveling to Las Vegas to accept a Marquee Award – "the biggest recognition in the industry," he explained – at CinemaCon in April.

THE TIVOLI THEATRE'S MARQUEE HONORS THE LATE GREAT WILLIS JOHNSON, FOUNDER AND LONGRUNNING PRESIDENT OF CLASSIC CINEMAS, AFTER HIS PASSING IN AUGUST 2023.

IN BED BY TEN

September 2023 Edition

LOCAL COMEDIAN MATT VANEPPS PERFORMS AT THE IN BED BY TEN SHOW IN OCTOBER AFTER READING ABOUT THE GROUP IN DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE.

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

In Bed By Ten, the monthly comedy show founded by Casey Alltop and Bridget Frodyma, was gearing up for its biggest show yet when featured a couple issues back. This show, held in October at Downers Grove's Moose Lodge, "had a great audience, thanks in part to the visibility the 'Downers Grove Magazine' article gave us," said Alltop. The show at the Moose raised approximately $800 for the charitable work of the Downers Grove Women of the Moose, Frodyma shared, and the show "went so well that they have invited us back," Alltop added, for another performance on Jan. 26. With six shows under their belts, Alltop and Frodyma's 2024 resolutions are to continue to draw new and returning audience members, diversify their performance lineup, and, Alltop said, "as always, get everyone in bed by 10."

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RACE TO THE TOP

The rundown on Downers Grove’s high school cross country teams and their various victories in 2023 BY VALERIE HARDY

races, they run their races, and they run to cool down after their races. While their peers are at Friday night football games, runners are often in bed before halftime, needing optimal rest to perform their best on the course the next morning.

That said, running can be a bit of a grind at times. Cross country athletes train year-round, in summer heat and winter sleet. They run to warm up before their

It’s this sacrifice and discipline that led the Downers Grove North boys cross country team to state and Nike Cross Regional (NXR) Midwest victories and the girls cross country team to runner-up finishes at those same major meets this fall, qualifying both teams

hough somewhat ironic, running is used as a punishment in many sports. For cross country, however, running IS the sport. Just ask the cross country runners from Downers Grove North and Downers Grove South High Schools. To them, running is passion, power, and purpose, not punishment.

RYAN EDDINGTON, GRANT SCHRODER, CADEN WEBER, AND PHIL CUPIAL RUN AS A PACK AT THE RACINE HORLICK INVITATIONAL IN SEPTEMBER.

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for the ultimate in high school distance running: the Nike Cross Nationals (NXN) held in Portland, Oregon on Dec. 2. While the boys team made its fourth national appearance in program history (2016, 2017, 2022, and 2023), this year was the girls team’s first time advancing to NXN. This feat was more incredible as they did so with two of their top seven runners injured and unable to race toward the end of the season. One of these athletes was McKenzie Willard, the team’s No. 2

runner. Willard explained that she was running “the best races of [her] life” prior to getting a stress fracture in her foot, making the injury “incredibly disappointing.” Thankfully, the team is “very deep “and had “many girls who stepped up when others couldn’t race due to injury,” said top runner Lily Eddington. While Willard had to sit out for state and NXR, she was cleared to race just in time for NXN.

INDIVIDUAL STATE QUALIFIERS JOSH POESCHEL AND HOLLY JOHNSON ARE HONORED AT A STATE SEND-OFF EVENT AT DGS.

SOUTHSIDE STANDOUTS Although Downers Grove South’s cross country teams did not make it to state or nationals, they had successful seasons. The girls won the conference championship for the 25th straight season, sweeping all four levels with a Mustang winning each race. They took fourth in the regional to advance further than the prior season, and the team’s frontrunner, junior Holly Johnson, qualified individually for state in spite of having been sidelined due to an injury the year before. Johnson finished 25th at state, and her coach, Doug Plunkett, lauded her “resilience, patience, and hard work [for making] her All-State finish possible.” Johnson credits her success to her phenomenal support system, including her teammates who supported and encouraged her through her “solo run at state. Many of the girls went to practice each day the week I was training for state, even though it wasn’t required,” she said.

Senior varsity runner Sarah Paul, who will join Brown University’s team next year, explained that “with injuries or not, our team was always ranked as an underdog, so we just had to put extra effort in to prove people wrong,” and prove them wrong they did with their 16th place finish against the very best teams in the nation at NXN. Underdog or otherwise, girls cross country head coach Tim McDonald always believed the team would succeed: “If we go out and execute our race at the level we are capable of, the score will take care of itself, and it was no different as we approached NXN.” The boys team, on the other hand, started the season ranked No. 1 in Illinois and remained the team to beat. They were unfazed by the pressure that inherently comes with being touted as the top team, and even when one of their top varsity veterans, University of Kentucky-bound senior Caden Weber, was not at peak performance due to an injury, the Trojans were unbeatable up through state and NXR. Although the team’s undefeated record was broken with their 7th place finish at NXN, the athletes on the team feel their season was nothing short of perfect.

The boys team, led by senior Josh Poeschel, won the conference title and placed fourth at regionals to advance to the sectional meet. Poeschel was the individual conference champion, runner-up at regionals, and a state qualifier. He had been fighting a “nagging injury” during September and October but attributed his “solid success” at season’s end to having been “hammering mileage day after day for several years on end.” Poeschel, who according to coach Brian Caldwell is “the consummate teammate” and a runner that is “incredibly disciplined and does everything the right way,” plans to continue his cross country career at Washington University in St. Louis. While Poeschel will leave a hole in South’s lineup, the team’s future looks bright given the growth this season of sophomores John Clinton and Ethan Traugott (who placed first in his heat at NXR this fall).

THE GIRLS AND BOYS TEAMS, LED BY SIBLINGS LILY AND RYAN EDDINGTON (HOLDING TROPHIES), PLACED SECOND AND FIRST RESPECTIVELY AT THE 2023 STATE MEET. RYAN IS HEADED TO MIZZOU TO RUN NEXT YEAR, BUT DGN'S CROSS COUNTRY PROGRAM HAS LILY FOR TWO MORE YEARS, AND THEIR YOUNGER BROTHER, BRENDAN, WILL LIKELY FOLLOW IN HIS SIBLINGS' FAST FOOTSTEPS WHEN HE GETS TO NORTH IN 2025.

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“This year it just felt like there was something different in the air,” said Grant Schroder, a junior and second-year varsity “Top 7” runner. North’s head boys cross country coach John Sipple, however, knows the “magic” of the season was the result of years of “commitment and dedication to making small daily progress over time,” and not just for the seven runners who competed on the state and national stage. “When those seven runners compete in the varsity races, they represent the team as a whole, both past and present… it is a powerful legacy.” And with Schroder, sophomore Will Surratt, and sophomore Phil Cupial (the team’s top finisher at the state meet and second DGN runner to cross the finish line at NXR) returning, along with a deep roster of other talented runners waiting in the wings, that legacy is likely to last.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS The “Top 7” on DGN’s state championship team share the ingredients that contributed to their stellar season

IN A RARE OCCURRENCE, BOTH THE BOYS AND GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY TEAMS FROM DGN QUALIFIED FOR THE NIKE CROSS NATIONALS AND RACED AGAINST THE 21 OTHER TOP TEAMS IN THE COUNTRY.

ISAAC MOSS, SENIOR “Training with each other every day gives us the confidence going into a race that we are at the level of fitness we need to dominate.”

ZACH BENDER, SENIOR “I truly believe we have the best coaching staff in the nation. They take an honest interest in each and every athlete on the team, which is why we have a team with such depth.”

GRANT SCHRODER, JUNIOR “We build strong bonds inside and outside of practice, which helps us run together as a pack. Everyone wants the best for this team and have learned to put team results ahead of their own.”

PHIL CUPIAL, SOPHOMORE “We train together and work together every single day. We run best when we fuel off each other, and that’s why we ran so well, not only at state and NXR but at all the races this season.”

WILL SURRATT, SOPHOMORE “Our coaches and previous teams have laid a strong foundation that we were able to build upon… Also, I’ve found that the little things add up. Eating the right foods and making sure to get enough sleep has really helped perform well at this level.”

RYAN EDDINGTON, SENIOR “This year’s success had a lot to do with our super sophomores. Having underclassmen step up like they did made such a big difference.”

CADEN WEBER, SENIOR “Going to NXN last year and placing 10th gave us the confidence that we can legitimately compete at the national level.”

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JIM PETERIK

Award-winning songwriter and musician, Jim Peterik, has had a remarkable journey in the music industry, including collaborations with renowned artists and experiences born out of chance encounters. In an exclusive Elmhurst Magazine interview, Peterik revealed some captivating stories and insights into his illustrious career. BY SCOTT JONLICH | PHOTOS BY KRISTIE SCHRAM

ARTS & THEATRE | DOWNERSGROVEMAG.COM

ecently, Jim Peterik wowed audiences with an exceptional performance at Elmhurst University. With his characteristic humility, Peterik reflected on the special nature of the concert. “Every show is like a new show for me,”he mused. “But this one was really special, because we were raising money for Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts.” His dedication to supporting meaningful causes shone through as he recounted the event. During the interview, Peterik fondly reminisced on his long-standing connection with music powerhouse, Cathy Richardson, lead vocalist for Jefferson Starship. Their partnership, which originated from a surprising encounter, has blossomed into a close bond. “We've been best friends ever since she was 18,” Peterik revealed. “I produced her first album, Moon, Not Banana, and then

“To me, my bucket list is for people to say, ‘What’s the greatest song you ever wrote?’ And I go, I haven’t written it yet!” - JIM PETERIK

we’ve written through the years and performed so many shows together.” This collaboration stands as a testament to the enduring power of musical partnerships rooted in mutual respect and admiration. The narrative took an intriguing turn as Peterik humorously recounted the serendipitous meeting that kickstarted his association with Richardson. “I was at a gas station and pumping gas...the guy who owns the station comes up and says,‘You’re Jim Peterik!’ I said, ‘Yeah.’ And he goes on to say, ‘Well, my daughter sings!’ I’m going oh, man, I heard this one before,” Peterik chuckled. This seemingly inconsequential encounter led to the discovery of a future star. “A chance meeting at a gas station through her father, and I met one of the future stars in my life!” Peterik exclaimed, highlighting how destiny can unfold in the most unexpected ways. When they met, Richardson was on the verge of both stardom and adulthood. “Eighteen years of age,” Peterik confirmed. “She’s was right in this (recording) room, playing her guitar and singing these amazing songs.” The recollection paints a vivid picture of an emerging talent about to embark on a remarkable journey in the music industry. As the interview concluded, Peterik’s enduring passion for creating music and fostering meaningful connections with fellow artists shone through. His anecdotes, laced with humor and warmth, shed light on the fortuitous encounters and enduring partnerships that have shaped his musical legacy. DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

THE INTERVIEW:

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE (DGM): When I was recently at Elmhurst University, you and Cathy Richardson really impressed the audience. The theatre was packed with about 200 people, and the way you both performed that song was fantastic!

PETERIK: Whenever Cathy joins the Ides of March on stage, we always give it our all, no matter what song it is. This particular song holds a special place in our history of writing and performing together in the band.

DGM: You have a prolific songwriting career and were recently inducted into the Illinois Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. How many songs have you written for yourself and other artists? It seems like they are countless.

moment that nearly slipped through my fingers. My wife of 51 years, Karen (Peterik), encouraged me to return Stallone's call. That call, which I initially thought was a prank, turned out to be the defining moment of my career. It was a conversation that changed my life and put me on the map.

DGM: And there's the Grammy Award behind you!

PETERIK: Absolutely, that call from

Stallone steered my career in a new direction. It was a pivotal moment despite my earlier success with the Ides of March, starting back in '64, and our hit Vehicle in 1970, which was influenced by Blood, Sweat and Tears and marked the addition of a full brass section.

started dating, and it was going great. And then she says, "What are you doing? You're the first guy I ever dated. And I want to date other guys." And I was like, really depressed, you know? And in about six months, she said, "You got the cool new car. You got a Datsun 240Z. Can you take me to the Patricia Stevens modeling school?" I said, sure. So I take her in my 240Z, and I figured I'd get a kiss on the cheek or something. She said see you next week, and let's do it again. So after a while, I said "All I am is your vehicle, baby." I wrote that song and it went to number one, and the girl starts calling me again. And 51 years later, she's still my wife!

PETERIK: I've lost

count, but it's probably around 7,000 songs. However, the cream rises to the top, with around 100 songs standing out. Out of those, about 50 have become widely recognized. It's truly an honor to hear people humming my songs without even realizing that they are listening to my work on the radio or online. It's a thrilling experience.

DGM: What I admire about your concerts is the way you involve the audience and share a story between each song. It truly creates an intimate experience, even with a crowd of over two hundred people. PETERIK: Indeed, storytelling is an

essential part of my performances. I learned from masters like James Taylor, whose stage presence and storytelling I admired during my teenage years and early twenties. Ensuring that people get the backstory has always been important to me. For instance, there's the story of Sylvester Stallone calling me about writing Eye of the Tiger. It was a

DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

DGM: Where were you, and what were you thinking when you wrote "Vehicle"?

PETERIK: I don't know. But if I could think it again, I'd write another one of those. But it was about the girl that I was dating. I met her at a Turtle's concert. She was 15. I was 17. And we

DGM: And she became Mrs. Karen Peterik!

PETERIK: She was the inspiration. That's right. And I still pay her royalties! DGM: You know, when I look back

on your career starting so early in the '70s, you have worked with so many

artists. Let's just start with in the Chicago area: Cheap Trick and Kevin Cronin from REO Speedwagon. Tell us about that. The joy of working with professionals and some you met at a very, very young age, and you're still friends with them?

PETERIK: First of all, there's nothing

like collaboration. I can write a song on my own, and I do often. But there's something about getting together with someone like Don Barnes of 38 Special or Kevin Cronin, who, by the way, came to the Blue Village in Westmont when he was like, 15, and that was the place to be. So it was really just the place to be. And that's where Kevin Cronin first saw the band. And then he hired us for their prom at Brother Rice High School!

DGM: We all have bucket lists. What is on Jim Peterik’s bucket list?

PETERIK: To me, my bucket list is

for people to say, “What’s the greatest song you ever wrote?" And I go, "I haven't written it yet!” I'm always trying to beat the best that I've done, whether it was “Eye of the Tiger," or “Vehicle," or "Hold on Loosely," and those are all great. "But I have to try to keep trying to beat them and to keep that level up there - that's the goal.

York High School musicians: Vasili Malamis, Matthew Markwald, Mike Pavlik, Julian Dominguez

DGM: What's next for Jim Peterik

and Ides of March? You have somethingcoming up this spring on March 15 at the Norris Theater in St. Charles. Tell us about that because I'm going to be there.

PETERIK: The 15th of March is our

60th anniversary officially. And it's going to be a hell of a show with a symphony. This January sees the release of World Stage's Roots and Shoots volume and just a some great artists. Expected to appear are: Kevin Cronin, Colin Peterik, Don Barnes, Paul Childers, and Kelly Keagy of Night Ranger. And it's going to be epic to hear the songs like "Vehicle" with a full orchestra. I'm getting

goosebumps just thinking about it. It’s gonna be exciting.

DGM: By the way, speaking of brass horns at your concert at Elmhurst University, you invited two or three horn players from York High School. They were fantastic!

PETERIK: At that pace, they didn't

miss a note. I mean, they were right on it, and these are all 15 and 16 year olds.

DGM: That’s why the concerts at

Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts are so special!

This is an abbreviated version of the full interview edited for clarity. ■ DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

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FOOD & DRINK. | DOWNERSGROVEMAG.COM

Oak Brook: A True Dining Mecca

ak Brook offers residents and visitors an array of nearly 80 dining destinations, from fine dining to quick-serve restaurants. It has evolved into a dining mecca over several decades. According to former Chicago Tribune Dining Critic Phil Vettel, a major reason is the proximity to downtown Chicago. “I had a ringside seat over 30 years watching name chefs located in Chicago,” he said. Chefs arrived from all parts of the country and the world, bringing their styles of cuisine with them—famous names like Rick Bayless and Charlie Trotter. Dining entrepreneurs like Rich Melman started in Chicago and grew his passion into nationally recognized Lettuce Entertain You restaurants.

With such close proximity to a dining magnet like Chicago, Oak Brook is a natural extension of the restaurant scene. As the home of Oakbrook Center, one of the most successful shopping centers in the country, along with various businesses and corporations based in the village, there is steady traffic. Meetings, conventions, and vacations also keep the restaurants bustling. Oak Brook is a restaurant destination, but it can be combined with some fun and games. Puttshack offers mini-golf, Pinstripes offers bowling and bocce, and Game of Irons offers mini-golf, golf simulators, pool games, and arcade games. Thanks to the Oak Brook Restaurant Association, Oak Brook Magazine has curated a local guide organized by cuisine and style. Enjoy them often. ■ DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

FOOD & DRINK. | DOWNERSGROVEMAG.COM

—“A Dining Mecca!” AMERICAN Alter Brewing & Kitchen 1170 W 22nd St., Oak Brook 630.819.8411 alterbrewing.com Beatrix 272 Oakbrook Center 630.491.1415 beatrixrestaurants.com Game of Irons 3041 Butterfield Rd #104, Oak Brook 630.303.9454 gameofirons.com

Michael Jordan’s 1225 W 22nd St., Oak Brook 630.828.2932 michaeljordansteakhouse. com Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar 1775 22nd St., Oak Brook 630.526.4308 lazydogrestaurants.com Table at Crate 35 Oakbrook Center 630.590.9444 tableatcrate.com True Food Kitchen 105 Oakbrook Center 630.716.3056 truefoodkitchen.com ASIAN Bibibop Asian Grill 1725 22nd St. Oak Brook 630.634.5616 bibibop.com

ITALIAN Antico Posto 118 Oakbrook Center 630.586.9200 antico-posto.com Labriola Café 3021 Butterfield Rd Ste 105, Oak Brook 630.574.2800 labriolabakerycafe.com La Barra 3011 Butterfield Rd, Oak Brook 630.861.7617 labarraristorante.com Pinstripes 7 Oakbrook Center 630.575.8700 pinstripes.com

Old Town Pour House 8 Oakbrook Center 630.601.1440 oldtownpourhouse.com

Kura Revolving Sushi Bar 1755 22nd St. Oak Brook 630.791.4721 kurasushi.com

Wildfire 232 Oakbrook Center 630.598.9000 wildfirerestaurant.com

OakBrookRestaurants.com DOWNERS GROVE| OAK MAGAZINE 50 50OakBrookMagazine.com BROOK MAGAZINE

STEAKHOUSE

HOTEL DINING Longitude 87, Le Meridien 2100 Spring Road, Oak Brook 630.368.9900 marriott.com El Tapeo, Le Meridien 2100 Spring Road, Oak Brook 630.828.2044 eltapeooakbrook.com Hearth Lounge, Hyatt Lodge 2815 Jorie Blvd, Oak Brook 630.568.1234 hyatt.com Water’s Edge, Hyatt Lodge 2815 Jorie Blvd, Oak Brook 630.568.1234 hyatt.com

Lakeside Private Parties 2815 Jorie Blvd, Oak Brook 630.568.1234 yatt.com Residence Inn, Breakfast 790 Jorie Blvd, Oak Brook 630.571.1200 marriott.com Hyatt House H Bar 210 22nd St., Oak Brook 630.590.1200 hyatt.com Hyatt House Morning Spread 210 22nd St., Oak Brook 630.590.1200 hyatt.com

Doubletree The Lounge at 1909 1909 Spring Road, Oak Brook 630.472.6000 hilton.com Doubletree Atrium Café 1909 Spring Road, Oak Brook 630.472.6000 hilton.com The Drake Colonial Room 2301 York Rd., Oak Brook 630.571.0000 thedrakeoakbrookhotel.com The Drake Polo Lounge 2301 York Rd., Oak Brook 630.571.0000 thedrakeoakbrookhotel.com The Drake Aroma de Café 2301 York Rd., Oak Brook 630.571.0000 thedrakeoakbrookhotel.com The Drake Sunday Brunch 2301 York Rd., Oak Brook 630.571.0000 thedrakeoakbrookhotel.com Marriott Oak Brook 1401 W. 22nd ST., Oak Brook 630.573.8555 no restaurants

BREAKFAST Blueberry Hill Café 3041 Butterfield Rd, Oak Brook 630.575.8401 blueberrybreakfastcafe.com QUICK CASUAL DINING Jeni’s Ice Cream 521 Oakbrook Center 630.822.7996 Starbucks Coffee 2407 W. 22nd St 630.368.1091 DINE IN OAK BROOK

The above list includes all restaurants that have registered with the Village of Oak Brook. The Village looks forward to adding more restaurants to the list as they sign up in the registry.

OakBrookRestaurants.com | OakBrookMagazine.com OAK BROOK MAGAZINE DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE 51

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EDUCATION INDEPENDENT AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS CONTINUE TO PROSPER There are several exceptionally strong schools in the western suburbs. Many schools have a rich history and are recognized throughout their communities for academic excellence, various extracurricular programs, and inspiration for learning. Families and students have many great options for selecting a private or independent school. Visits to each school are crucial to making an informed decision, but understanding each school's unique character - from the perspective of the school - is key to illustrating what each school offers. In this exclusive feature for Hinsdale Magazine Group, we highlight our partners to provide our readers with relevant information and help them discover each school's unique characteristics.

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DOWNERS GROVE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL -DOWNERS GROVE

or the last 53 years, Downers Grove Christian School has been academically training students from two-year-old preschool to 8th grade in a faith-based setting. A quality, Christ-centered education is modeled in a loving environment. This academic community holds high-quality scholastic preparedness, character development, and student-teacher engagement as its hallmarks. All aspects of education are presented in a Bible-based framework. Students are taught to love and encourage one another through the example of their teachers. All 200 students are acknowledged as individuals with different needs and ways of learning. The caring and capable staff work to assist each child at every academic level. Small class sizes, averaging from 18-21 students, allow for plenty of small-group instruction. A full-time resource teacher for individual instruction ensures that no student is ever left behind. Soccer, basketball, and volleyball teams encourage athletic development. A band, tech club, and a variety of extracurricular clubs and activities offer students social interaction as well as a chance to pursue outside interests, from chess to the culinary arts. Speech Meets, Science Fair, Reading Fair, and Math Olympics offer additional opportunities to expand oratory skills. A dedicated, weekly chapel time brings the school community together in prayer, with an invitation for all families to attend.

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5/2/16 4:52 PM PHOTO BY MICHAEL PAUL PHOTOGRAPHERS

Bright, airy classrooms with much natural light provide the ideal learning environment. Recent updates to the building include the addition of state-of-the-art classroom furniture and carpeting throughout the school for noise control. The academic results speak for themselves. This is one of the few schools nationwide that stayed open at full schedule during the pandemic- the result of

careful planning and teamwork in the interest of the students. DGCS students graduate ready to further their academic path with the mindset of hard work, doing one’s best, and keeping a positive attitude. They are academically, socially, emotionally, mentally, and physically prepared for the next step of their educational paths.

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eing a teenager today is more challenging than ever and the Lasallian approach to education that Montini Catholic has provided since their founding - knowing, seeing, supporting, and loving each student - is more relevant than ever. Located in Lombard, Montini Catholic High School is a family-centered, coeducational, college preparatory high school rooted in the life and teaching of Jesus Christ as emulated by St. John Baptist DeLaSalle. The LaSallian tradition recognizes the sacredness of all persons and educates students of diverse abilities, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Founded in 1966, Montini has effectively established an educational experience deeply rooted in the message of Christ, service, and responsibility to Church, family, and community. Attending Montini is an experience for each individual family with faith, cul-

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MONTINI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL -LOMBARD

ture, and knowledge integrated among teachers, students, and families in the spirit of cooperation. Academically, Montini challenges and encourages the development of each student. The curriculum includes courses within several learning levels including Signum Fidei, College Prep, Honors, Advanced Placement, and College Dual Credit. Rather than being placed in a single track, students are placed into individual classes that engage and aid in learning at their level of rigor. This approach is just one example of the individualized attention Montini pays to each student. Montini offers 11 men’s and 11 women’s IHSA athletic teams and three club sports. The Athletic Department provides an atmosphere where each student-athlete can maximize his or her ability. Athletes are considered students first and athletes second, as success is measured both in the classroom and in the athletic arena.

Extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations play a significant role in the overall development of the Montini student. In fact, 92% of students are involved in at least one extracurricular activity. The relationships and camaraderie help give the school a distinct personality. Visit the campus day or night, weekday or weekend, and one is likely to see the lights on, cars in the parking lot, and Montini students participating in an activity. Montini Catholic attracts students from over 50 different middle schools each year. Graduating seniors have earned over $86,000,000 in college scholarship offers in the last five years alone. It is evident that Montini Catholic’s program works! The ideal size of the school, coupled with the family atmosphere, ensures that graduates are wellrounded and academically prepared to remain successful throughout their collegiate years. ■

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ST. MARY OF GOSTYN SCHOOL

t. Mary of Gostyn School (SMG) combines exceptional academics with a strong faith-based environment. SMG students experience a Catholic culture that includes daily prayer, religion class, and weekly Mass. They also encounter a challenging curriculum that inspires them to excel academically, develop confidence and a strong sense of self, build personal relationships, and serve others. The school’s dedicated team of teachers and staff emphasizes creativity, critical and analytical thinking, and real-world application with a Catholic worldview to help students learn, grow, and thrive. Over 125 years ago, SMG opened as the first parochial school in Down-

-DOWNERS GROVE

ers Grove in a one-room wooden schoolhouse. Today, after several additions to the original structure, activity center, and gyms, SMG is home to 485 students from preschool through eighth grade. Parents, the primary educators of their children, partner with SMG to create an environment that meets each child’s specific needs. SMG believes that every child has God-given abilities, talents, and needs. They maintain a curriculum and environment that encourages each child to succeed, providing additional academic support such as supplemental reading and math programs when necessary. In addition, religious education is a priority at SMG and helps each child develop a personal relationship with God.

Furthermore, SMG provides opportunities for growth in self-esteem and happiness inside and outside the classroom, and the curriculum subjects – beyond Common Core – are essential. Many extracurricular opportunities are offered to help create this learning environment, including Math Club, Environmental Club, Geography Club, Voices (a literary magazine), BAM Theater, Students for Life, chess class, school musical, and various other clubs. Basketball, cross country, volleyball, cheerleading, track and field, and football are also offered with a no-cut policy. For more information about how SMG is the right fit for your family, visit stmarygostyn.org/school.

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ST. JOAN OF ARC SCHOOL -LISLE

t. Joan of Arc was established in 1926 as a Benedictine Parish School. Since its foundation, SJA has focused on education, community and faith. They were awarded the National Blue Ribbon Award in 1986, 2011, and now again in 2023. The coveted National Blue Ribbon School award affirms the hard work of the students, educators, families, and community in creating a safe and welcoming environment where students master challenging and engaging content, preparing them for the next steps in their education journeys. At SJA, education is more than just academics; they focus on enriching the whole person, from preschool to eighth grade. They blend learning with faith to provide for the total development of each student in their spiritual, moral, intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth. The community is tight-knit; SJA teachers and staff know every one of their 370 students. This provides a personal approach to education and ensures that each student's individual needs are met.

A grandparent once said, "[St. Joan of Arc School] is the best kept secret in the western suburbs." But the secret is out. Their enrollment has increased year after year, and talented and devoted teachers in the area join the growing family. These dedicated teachers and administrators have over 15 years of experience on average, and more than 50% have one or more master's degrees. Students who graduate from SJA will go on to be very successful in the

high schools of their choice; many choose to continue with Catholic education in the area high schools. These students leave the doors of SJA with a lifelong commitment to Catholic values and an awareness of their social and moral responsibility 5/2/16 4:52to PM the needs of parish, to respond local, and global communities. For more information about St. Joan of Arc, its programs, and extracurricular activities, visit their website at school.sjalisle.org. DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

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ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL dotted-line.indd 1

stablished in 1910, St. Joseph School provides excellence in education founded on theCatholic faith to Downers Grove and neighboring communities. For the sixth year in a row, St. Joseph School was voted the Finest Grade School and Preschool in Suburban Life’s 2023 Reader’s Choice contest. Over the years, the school has grown from a few classrooms in the back of the church to over 450 students. Today, two classrooms are offered per grade level, bringing the average class size to 21. An award-winning preschool program is also offered. As an extension of St. Joseph Parish, the school shares the mission of the Catholic church. They provide opportunities to pursue academic excellence by offering advanced cur-

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riculum in core subjects. Students also have opportunities to discover their talents through classes such as STEM, Technology, Art, Music, P.E., and Spanish. The sports program at St. Joseph School is all-inclusive to encourage participation for fifth through eighth-grade students. The sports offered include volleyball, football, basketball, track and field, and cross county. St. Joseph students in Kindergarten through fourth grade have the opportunity to compete together in sports programs through the YMCA and Downers Grove Park District. There are many opportunities for parent involvement, including the Parent Forum, School Advisory Board, Athletic Board, Parish Council, athletic and enrichment program coaches, and more. Special events for families include the Christmas and

Spring Music Concerts, Green & White Gala, and Friday Night Lights. After-school enrichment clubs are also offered including Art, Violin, Band, Chess, Scouts, Drama Club, LEGO Building and Science Olympiad to name a few. St. Joseph School is a welcoming, nurturing community where faculty and staff work in partnership with school parents to benefit students spiritually and academically. Students are well-prepared; over 80% of graduates make the honor roll their freshman year. Grounded in faith and guided by a team of experienced administrators, teachers and staff committed to the academic, spiritual and social growth of their students, St. Joseph School is looking forward to continued excellence in Catholic education in the years to come.

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TIMOTHY CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS

-ELMHURST tart your adventure at Timothy Christian Schools!

Timothy Christian Schools is a nondenominational, college preparatory PK-12th grade school in Elmhurst. From personalized and targeted instruction in the classroom, to clubs that give students real-world experiences — Timothy combines challenging programs with a Christ-centered community. Timothy wants its students to live up to their full God-given potential. But Timothy also trains them to be courageous followers of Christ. There is no better investment you can make in your child’s education than one that is Biblically-rooted and has an excellence-driven program of academics. The elementary school was only one of 6 in the state to win the “Whole Child Award” from the Illinois Association for Supervision and Curriculum Develop-

ment. High school students compete at State and National levels. Timothy’s ACES team (Academic Challenge in Engineering and Science) won the 2023 State Championship. In 2022, VEI, a student-run virtual business plan, also captured the State title and placed 13th at Nationals. The Class of 2023, saw 26 seniors named State Scholars, two were named Commended Students in the 2023 National Merit Scholarship program, and three were awarded the pinnacle status of National Merit Finalists. Seniors are accepted at toptier colleges, often with college credits they earned at Timothy Christian High School. Schedule a tour today (timothychristian.com/admisions) and learn how Timothy can give your child personalized and targeted instruction that will help them thrive. The best stories and adventures are yet to come as we partner together on behalf of your child. ■

5/2/16 4:52 PM

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YOUR HEALTH | DOWNERSGROVEMAG.COM

Is Hair loss on your mind?

Reclaim Your Crowning Glory

n a world where first impressions matter, the loss of hair can be a challenging journey to navigate. Your hair is more than just a part of your appearance; it's a reflection of your identity, personality, and self-confidence. CSC Dermatology understands the impact that hair loss can have on your life and offers effective solutions that go beyond superficial fixes. Let CSC walk you through the transformative path towards regaining your luscious locks and confidence.

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THE CRITICAL IMPORTANCE OF EARLY INTERVENTION Picture this: your hair follicles are like precious brain cells, and once they're gone, they're gone for good. Just as brain cells don't regenerate, neither do hair follicles. That's why it's crucial to address hair loss early on. Waiting until you notice a significant thinning can limit your options and outcomes. Think of it as nipping the issue in the bud – early intervention can be the key to maintaining a full head of hair that you're proud to flaunt.

TREAT YOUR HAIR WITH THE CARE IT DESERVES Hair loss treatment is a commitment, much like taking care of your oral hygiene. Just as you wouldn't neglect brushing your teeth, you shouldn't overlook the care your hair needs. At CSC Dermatology, treating hair loss is not just a process, but a lifestyle choice. Our Experts provide you with personalized treatment plans that incorporate the latest advancements in dermatology.

“There are a lot of options available to treat and prevent hair loss. Our job is to educate and help patients navigate their choices.” - DR. CHRISTINA STEIL

EXPLORING EFFECTIVE TREATMENTS AT CSC DERMATOLOGY At CSC Dermatology, we understand that every individual's hair loss journey is unique. That's why we offer a range of effective treatments designed to cater to your specific needs:

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CONSISTENCY IS KEY Much like a healthy lifestyle, maintaining your hair's health requires consistency. Our experts advise undergoing treatments approximately every six months to ensure optimal results. Even a hair transplant needs maintenance therapy to preserve the hair and to prevent further loss. Just as you wouldn't skip your workout routine, regular appointments at CSC Dermatology can help you achieve the hair you want.

Laser Treatments: CSC cutting-edge laser treatments use advanced technology to stimulate hair growth. By enhancing blood circulation and cellular activity in the scalp, these non-invasive sessions promote healthy hair follicles, leading to a fuller head of hair.

A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH CSC Dermatology's approach to hair loss focuses on tackling the underlying causes. Correctly diagnosing and addressing the root issue will ensure the greatest chance for a successful treatment. Our physicians will work

with you selecting an appropriate therapy that will take into consideration factors such as your age and aesthetic concerns, lifestyle and preferences, access to treatment, compliance, extent of hair loss, and your budget. CONTACT US TODAY FOR A PERSONALIZED CONSULTATION Embark on your journey towards renewed self-assurance today. Don't let hair loss hold you back from feeling and looking your best. Reach out to CSC Dermatology to schedule a consultation tailored to your needs. The team of experienced professionals is committed to guiding you every step of the way on your path to hair restoration. In conclusion, hair loss doesn't have to be an irreversible fate. CSC Dermatology offers a range of effective treatments that can bring your hair back to life. Remember, early intervention is the key, and maintaining your hair's health is a commitment worth making. Take the first step towards reclaiming your crowning glory and contact CSC Dermatology today. ■

Appointments are beginning to fill fast. Call 630 455 0045 now to book a session at either one of our prominent locations in Hinsdale or Downers Grove. (L-R) Dr. Christina Steil, MD; Dr. Paula Maholtra, MD and Dr. Rachel Bognet, MD

125 W. 2nd St, Hinsdale | 5157 Main, Suite 205, Downers Grove cscdermatology.com DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

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ICELAND BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN

onsider checking out this European destination in winter. You’ll need to outfit carefully for outdoor activities, but average temperatures are not much different than here. Expect fewer crowds, better prices, and stunning, frosted landscapes. Daylight is sparse this time of year, but there are definite advantages to visiting in the low season. Reykjavik is a modern capital city with eclectic museums, a varied shopping district and vibrant nightlife. Thorrablot, the mid-winter festival that honors Icelandic heritage and culture, traditionally goes from mid-January to mid-February, making it a festive time to visit. Iceland, this time of year, isn’t for the casual traveler. But it’s a unique destination, and there are more hours of darkness to see the northern lights!

Reykjavik, Iceland Photo by Tom Podmore

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Hiking electric blue tinted glaciers and exploring ice caves are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Ice-caving season goes from mid-October through March. Photo by Chris Henry

Geothermal pools are heated by hot springs deep within the earth. The Blue Lagoon is open year-round and is an ideal place to warm up after any outdoor activities. Photo by Jeff Sheldon

The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are a spectacular, natural phenomenon. In Icelandic folklore, they are thought to be the spirits of the deceased, who have not yet found a resting place. The country’s latitude makes it an ideal location to see them. Photo by Jonathan Pie

Sure-footed, sturdy, Icelandic horses transport riders across the lava fields, open water, and black volcanic sands of their native settings. Take a ride on one of these unique animals to get a close look at the island’s desolate, windswept landscapes. Photo by Wesley Gibbs

With about 333,000 speakers, the Icelandic language is unique. Its roots are in Old Norse, a Scandinavian language which predates the Viking era. Photo by Kristina Delp DOWNERS GROVE MAGAZINE

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GROVE EXPRESS 5K PHOTOS BY DIANNE HLINSKY LAPOINTE

The Grove Express 5K was held on Thanksgiving morning in Downers Grove. Starting on Main Street and ending on Curtiss Street, the race took place throughout Downtown Downers Grove. More than 7,000 community members attended this year's event, a significant increase from last year's 5,000 attendees. In 2021, the Grove Express replaced the Bonfield Express and is now "run" by The Education Foundation of District 58, Roadrunners Soccer Club, and the Downers Grove Rotary Club. Thank you to each of these organizations for keeping the tradition going for the community!

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DOWNERS GROVE TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY PHOTOS BY 726 VISUALS

Residents from Downers Grove attended the annual holiday tree lighting ceremony on Nov. 24 at Main Street Station. Friends, family, and neighbors kicked off the holiday season with a visit from Santa and friends, along with music from the District 99 marching band and Downers Grove Choral Society. Thanks to those who participated, hundreds of homemade ornaments adorned the tree with twinkling lights.

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DUPAGE FOUNDATION

ANNUAL BENEFIT PHOTOS COURTESY OF DUPAGE FOUNDATION

DuPage Foundation hosted its 2023 Annual Benefit: Under the Sea in November at The Westin Chicago Lombard. With generous sponsorships and contributions, the evening was a night to remember, grossing more than $565,000 for DuPage Foundation operations and programs aimed at raising the quality of life throughout DuPage County. The evening featured a cocktail hour followed by a gourmet dinner and dueling piano music by Felix & Fingers. Attendees bid on curated items and experiences in the silent auction, participated in games, and took part in a program and paddle raise presented by the evening’s hostess, Elmhurst resident Kerry Sayers Doucet. DuPage Foundation, a 501(c)(3) community foundation, is the philanthropic leader in DuPage County, Illinois, and has awarded more than $80 million in grants since its founding in 1986. Individuals and organizations seeking to provide impactful support to address critical issues in DuPage County can learn more at dupagefoundation.org. SARAH CHARLES, DUPAGE FOUNDATION BOARD MEMBER, PATRICIA ATUESTA, AND GUSTAVO AGUIRRE, ALL OF HINSDALE

DUPAGE FOUNDATION PRESENTED UNDER THE SEA ON NOVEMBER 4, 2023.

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DUPAGE FOUNDATION BOARD PRESIDENT, NATHAN WASSON, WITH HIS FAMILY, GRACE, JAMES, AND SANDRA, OF HINSDALE

FELIX AND FINGERS DUELING PIANOS AT DUPAGE FOUNDATION’S ANNUAL BENEFIT