Elmhurst Magazine January/February 2025

CENTER STAGE

Wellness on a First-Name Basis

Staying true to ourselves has always allowed us to grow a stronger connection with our patients. While our name has changed from DuPage Medical Group, we’re still led by physicians who listen to your voice. Offering convenient locations, the latest technology and collaboration among specialties, we’re happy to be a familiar partner in your personal growth.

Schedule an appointment today at Duly.com.

Experience the award-winning Italian restaurant, serving a culinary voyage of classic proportions. The restaurant offers a menu of trend-setting fare, including fresh fish, veal, chicken, award winning steaks and of course, our delicious pastas. Roberto’s Ristorante radiates a Tuscan atmosphere, compliments of its warm decor and impeccable service.

As the Creator of the Reverse Facelift Method, Dr. BYUN’s work is unparalleled. This is why he was voted “The Facelift Guru” by Chicago Magazine

CREATOR OF THE REVERSE FACELIFT

Dr. Michael BYUN

For the past 25 years, I have performed a unique type of facelift that differs from the traditional approach. Unlike conventional facelifts, my technique focuses on repositioning the muscles. I believe the muscles need to be restored to their original positions, allowing the different layers of the face to realign naturally. This method repairs the muscles back to the midline, reversing the direction of aging and counteracting previous surgical work. I call this procedure a ‘reverse facelift,’ and I firmly believe it should be the new standard in cosmetic surgery.

— Michael BYUN, MD

“The ‘BYUN Method’ reconstructs the aging face — it’s not a facelift; it’s a muscle repair.”

Face Restoration is our Specialty…

Dr. Byun’s philosophy is rooted in creating results that stand the test of time. His approach contrasts sharply with the quickfix mentality that dominates the cosmetic surgery industry. Many surgeons promise immediate results but fail to consider the long-term effects of repeated procedures. Dr. Byun, however, works with his patients for years, monitoring their progress and making adjustments as necessary. His technique supports graceful aging, helping patients retain their natural features while minimizing visible signs of aging.

Dr. Byun sees new patients at his North Shore office at 1775 Walters Ave. in Northbrook and he performs his surgeries at 900 N Michigan Ave., Chicago.

To see before and after images and long term outcomes visit ChicagoCosmeticSurgery.com.

To schedule a consultation, call 847-513-6899.

HIt All Begins in Elmhurst

appy New Year, Elmhurst! As we enter 2025, we’re excited to celebrate the remarkable individuals and events defining our vibrant community.

Our cover story features Anthony Michael Lopez, an Elmhurst native who has made history on Broadway. Despite being one of the first amputees to perform on Broadway, Anthony has overcome the biases and limitations others have placed on him. Currently starring in Our Town at the Barrymore Theatre, he credits his start at Elmhurst Children’s Theatre and York High School for equipping him with the skills and confidence to succeed. His story is a testament to resilience and the power of turning challenges into assets.

In this issue we share stories of Elmhurst’s high school sports teams. Despite the adversity of losing their head coach, the York Dukes football team made history with a second-place finish in the state—its best performance ever. On the tennis court, senior Lizzie Isyanov proved determination knows no bounds, finishing second at the High School Tennis Tournament after sitting out her junior year with a stress fracture.

roots. At press time, Hinsdale Magazine Group heard of Fred Lorenzen’s passing. We are honored to feature him on our pages. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Lorenzen Family. For additional stories and photos about this local legend, visit ElmhurstMagazine.com.

Elmhurst’s generosity was on full display at the 41st Annual Dan Gibbons Turkey Trot, where over 7,500 participants braved the cold to raise funds for 17 local agencies supporting neighbors in need. Another inspiring initiative, “Warm Coats for Cool Kids,” founded by Garry and Debra Vaccaro, continues to grow. Over the past four years, they’ve distributed new coats to 2,600 children, proving how small acts of kindness can snowball into meaningful change.

Local talent continues to shine on the soccer field as well. Elmhurst natives Charlie Heuer and Luke van Heukelum, who played at the collegiate level, returned home in the fall to compete at Seat Geek Stadium—a special milestone for these athletes.

For those who love fast-paced action, our feature on Elmhurst native Fred Lorenzen, aka the “Elmhurst Express,” delves into his pioneering impact on NASCAR. Lorenzen helped grow the sport’s popularity across the country, bringing racing thrills far beyond its southern

Community celebrations also brought joy this winter. The Spring Road Business Association’s Winter Fest delighted hundreds of families with Santa visits, sleigh rides, and caroling around the gazebo.

Finally, we explore the enduring power of live performing arts with Laura Michaud and Melissa Wilson. Laura, a founding member of the Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts, shares how performances unite and inspire us—a fitting reflection for the start of a new year.

Thank you for reading and for supporting our advertisers. Here’s to a year filled with inspiration, determination, and a strong sense of community.

Warm regards,

Scott Jonlich Publisher

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FOUNDER & PUBLISHER

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ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER & EDITOR

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CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

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107 W. First Street Elmhurst, IL 60126

BEAT THE WINTER BLUES

BY ANNA HUGHES

Nothing’s better than a hot chocolate by the fireplace on a cold winter day, but we’ve rounded up a list of events that certainly come close. For a couples date night, family weekend, or unexpected snow day, check out these local events that are sure to bring warmth and fun to the season.

Burns Field Ice Rink

Village of Hinsdale.org

The Village of Hinsdale Parks and Recreation Department sets up an ice rink at Burns Field Park, located at 320 N. Vine St., for families to enjoy all winter long. The rink will be open in accordance with weather and village safety requirements. Signs at the park and updates via social media will notify interested skaters throughout the season on whether or not the rink is open.

A stroll through downtown Downers Grove during this annual event will give residents and visitors a chance to admire the stunning sculptures, stop into local shops, and visit popular restaurants for a delicious, warm meal.

Oak Brook Park District’s “Tackle the Tri” Feb. 9, 2025, 7:15-11:15 A.M. OBParks.org

Put your family’s fitness to the test with the Oak Brook Park District’s “Tackle the Tri.” Participants ages 12 and up will compete in three areas: a 2000-meter row, 2.5 miles on an Assault Air Bike,

Snowshoeing at Fullersburg Woods DuPageForest.org

Explore Fullersburg Woods in a new and unique way: by snowshoe! When there’s snow on the trails, visitors can rent a pair at the Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center until Feb. 22, 2025 (excluding Dec. 25)

from Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (rentals end at 2 p.m.). Visit the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County website for more information on snowshoeing and other fun winter activities.

Downers Grove Ice Festival

Jan. 31 - Feb. 2, 2025 Downers.us

Join the Village of Downers Grove for live ice carving demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday at the Main Street Train Station.

Downers Grove Ice Festival

Photo by 726 Visuals

Snowshoeing at Fullersburg Woods

and 1.25 miles walking or running on a treadmill. Participants will be assigned to a group based on age and gender. Visit the park district’s website to sign up.

Westmont Winter Beer Festival

Feb. 15, 2025

WestmontParks.org

Warm up with a cold one at Westmont’s 2025 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: all the makings of a brew-tiful day! This event is 21+, and tickets can be purchased online or at the door.

Waitress: the Musical

Feb. 12 - March 30, 2025

ParamountAurora.com

Jenna, a baker and waitress at a local diner, dreams of escaping her small town and unhappy marriage. With the help of her friends, a new love interest, and her passion for baking, Jenna grapples with the news of an unexpected pregnancy –something that puts all her plans to leave on hold. Based on the 2007 movie of the same name, this Tony-nominated musical is one you don’t want to miss. Showtimes vary by date.

No Frills Fun Run

Feb. 23, 2025

NoFrillsFunRun.org

The No Frills Fun Run is an annual charitable run that

was started in 2012 by two moms in Elmhurst. Each year, a local family in need is selected to receive 100% of the proceeds from all the funds raised from the event.

Participants can run or walk the 5K path (or do it twice for a 10K)! Brave the cold (and maybe the snow) to show your support for neighbors in a time of need. 

Westmont Winter Beer Festival

Photo courtesy of Westmont Winter Beer Festival

THE PERFECT RESTAURANT ISN'T HARD, IT'S AL DENTE.

Staying Cool while Warming Up

Warm Coats for Cool Kids outfits winter wear for local students

BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN

Everyone has a different vision of the ideal retirement. For Elmhurst resident Garry Vaccaro, that vision included starting his own non-profit. As a volunteer at Elmhurst-Yorkfield Food Pantry (EYFP), Vaccaro serves as a “food recoverer” – a team that collects unsold items and produce from local grocery stores. One day, while helping at EYFP, he overheard Executive Director Kathie Watts on a phone call with a mother searching for winter coats for her three children. Watts hung up the phone in tears after she explained that she did not have access to winter clothing.

Garry and his wife, Debra, tried to locate an organization that provided new coats for kids in need. The search came up empty. Shortly thereafter, the couple founded Warm Coats for Cool Kids (WCCK). “If people couldn’t afford food, they likely couldn’t afford coats either, we reasoned,” said Vaccaro. The two began to buy coats at the end of the 2020 winter season.

Each year, between the end of September and Thanksgiving, WCCK gives away thousands of coats to underserved children in Elmhurst and other local communities.

Now in its fourth year of distribution, WCCK outfitted an estimated 2,600 Kindergarten through twelfth-grade kids with brand new winter gear this season. The best part? Each child chooses their own coat. “We wanted the

Garry Vaccaro started Warm Coats for Cool Kids in 2020 with his wife Debra.

kids to have a ‘shopping experience’ in which they choose a coat they really like,” said Vaccaro. “We bring many more coats to each distribution event than we actually need, so kids have choices. They can choose from a bunch of options in their size.”

It’s not just about a child getting their favorite color, either. “If five kids from the same school get coats from us, we didn’t want them to all have the same ones, because they would look like

donated coats when they’re all out on the playground.”

To identify which kids might be in the greatest need, Vaccaro used the Illinois Department of Education’s website, which tracks schools that have high percentages of students from lowincome families. The school is then contacted, and a list of potential students is put together with the help of the principal or a social worker. “They give us each child’s name, grade, and estimated coat size,” said Vaccaro, “so we have an idea of what to bring to the school.”

On distribution days, the pair arrive before the start of the school day to set up the event in the gym or cafeteria. Teachers and social workers escort the students to the event to “shop” for their coats. Each child deals directly with Garry, Debra, or one of their volunteers to ensure a personalized experience.

The actual work of gathering the inventory begins at the end of February. “My wife and I get in our Jeep and go to every Kohl’s, Macy’s, JCPenny, and anywhere else having a clearance sale. We fill up the car, unload, and go right back out to buy more,” said Vaccaro.

This is a couple that has discount shopping down to a science. Partly because they know kids have different

tastes, but more importantly because they want every recipient to get a coat of their choice. “We always shop at Kohl’s on Wednesday because they offer a 10% senior citizen discount,” Vaccaro knows. “If the store is having a 30% off sale, that’s already a big discount.” The couple explains the project to the store manager and requests an additional 30% off - a deduction they are almost always granted. “We’ve only ever had one manager refuse us since we started this project.”

The Black Friday sale at Macy’s is always a worthwhile buying opportunity. “We bought about 150 coats at that sale last year,” said Vaccaro, “because we want to be able to offer the styles and colors of the current season. Come February or March, prices are better, but the colors we want won’t be available, so we always

This season has been the biggest one yet for Warm Coats for Cook Kids thanks to contributions from the community.

Debra Vaccaro and her husband Garry have helped an estimated 2,600 kids this winter season.

buy a bunch early on, even if the price point is a little higher.”

WCCK can also count on help from Operation Warm – a non-profit that collects new coats and then sells them to other non-profits for deep discounts. “If we can’t find the coats we want from retailers – suppose we’re short size 7-8we know we can always get some from Operation Warm. But we don’t want to get them all there because they tend to look alike.”

The ideal budget per child is around $24, although it is slightly higher when dealing with older children, as adult sizes tend to be more expensive. “The key is to buy in bulk, as we get great prices,” said Vaccaro. Over the years, knit hats and magic gloves have worked their way into the price-per-head package and are purchased in lots of 500 to keep costs effective.

WCCK was entirely self-funded the first year as the project found its footing. Over time, grants from organizations like Rotary and Kiwanis have helped considerably. In the last few years, the organization has seen a very generous donation from the DuPage Foundation as well. “Budgets fluctuate, but this year, I spent between fifty and sixty thousand dollars on winter coats, hats, and gloves,” said Vaccaro. “It was our biggest year yet!”

There are no employees, and the Vaccaros cover all administrative costs themselves. “A friend donates part of his office, which serves as our storage space. Any additional expenses - if we’re buying gas for the cars to transport the coats or boxes from Home Depot to store our inventory, that comes out of pocket. If someone writes me a check, they can be sure one hundred percent of it is going toward hats, coats, or gloves,” said Vaccaro.

For more information on volunteering at coat distribution events, or to make a donation, visit WarmCoats-CoolKids.org. 

Kevin Kern, DO is a board certified physician with over 25 years of experience in emergency medicine and treatment of varicose veins. He combines his procedural training with specialized knowledge of vein disease to offer patients best-in class treatment that result in healthier legs. When you make the decision to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kern, you will have confidence that you’ll be talking to a friendly and happy board certified vein specialist, with the talent and expertise to provide the individualized care you deserve.

VEIN SPECIALIZATION:

Dr. Kern has extensive training in phlebology, the diagnosis and treatment of varicose vein disease and related disorders. At Vein Specialists of Geneva, he specializes in ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy and endovenous thermal ablation.

MEDICAL CREDENTIALS:

Dr. Kern received his medical degree from the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine and served his residency at Cook County Hospital in Chicago, IL.

PRIOR EXPERIENCE:

Dr. Kern has held the position of Emergency Medicine Attending Physician at some of the largest hospitals in the Chicago area including Cook County Hospital, Elmhurst Memorial Hospital, Gottlieb Memorial Hospital, and Our Lady of Resurrection Medical Center.

KEVIN P. KERN, DO

SHE’S BACK!

Isyanov takes second in the state after missing junior year with a back injury

BY JEFF VORVA

Those watching Lizzie Isyanov playing tennis in the Illinois High School State Tournament in late October saw a player on top of her game.

But those outside her inner circle probably had no idea what the senior York High School singles star had to go through to finish second in the state in Class 2A.

Ten months earlier, Isaynov was finally ready to start hitting the ball again after a long layoff that wiped out her junior high school season due to a stress fracture in her back.

After placing fifth in the state meet as a sophomore, Isyanov hoped her back would allow her to return for the Dukes, but it was a no-go.

“It was so frustrating,” she said. “I would play, and it would start hurting again, and I would take some time off, and I would play, and it would hurt again. Eventually, in January, it was fine, but I had to go really slow with it. I would play twice a week for 15 minutes with my dad (Eugene), and I was building back up the duration.”

She eventually started playing in United States Tennis Association

tournaments again, but she said she wasn’t at the same level as before.

“There were shots that I would hit that I could have made prior to the injury,” she said. “It was really all mental, and I had to get past that.”

So, to see her back on the courts for York at the state tournament was a welcome relief for York teammates, coach, and fans. And it was especially a welcome relief for Isyanov.

Isyanov, who verbally committed to Illinois, rolled through five opponents before dropping a tough 7-6

Lizzie Isyanov serves in the state tournament finals in October after missing the 2023 season with a back injury.

Photo by Jeff Vorva

(8-6 tie-breaker), 6-4 loss to defending state champion Jessica Kovalcik of Plainfield North at Hersey High School in Arlington Heights.

The back was fine, but she rolled an ankle early in the title match and had to gut it out, keeping the battle close despite being down 4-1 in the first set.

“It feels amazing,” Isyanov said of making it to the finals. “It’s always been my dream to play in the state championship, and it’s been great. I went into the match with nothing to lose. I’m just so happy I’m able to play tennis because if you had asked me a

year ago if I would be playing at this level again, I wouldn’t have believed it.”

York coach Kara Doillaske is amazed that after all of the time Isyanov missed, she was able to get this far. Isyanov’s second-place finish is the best in school history and the Dukes’ fourth-place showing was also a program best.

“She’s a fighter,” Dolaske said of Isyanov. “She doesn’t let things get to her and is always going for that win. What she did was not expected. Last year, when she thought she might be able to hit a little bit, there was a little hope, but there was no practice, and there were no matches. With doctor’s orders and the rest and rehab that she did, it was all on her during the offseason. You don’t get to be this good without playing every day all summer

long and all winter long. I know she was hungry because she had to sit out last season.”

Doubles players CJ and Josie Coan also helped the Dukes’ lofty finish as they won three matches but were stopped in the consolation quarterfinals.

While Isyanov was on the shelf in 2023, CJ Coan took over at lead singles as a freshman, and she had a top-eight finish in the state tournament and figures to be a force the next two years. Isyanov, meanwhile, cheered Coan on while mending in 2023. She liked being inside the fence in 2024.

“I was cheering at state, and it was really fun, but it was also sad because I wanted to be playing,” she said. “And this year was amazing. I’m grateful to have so many supportive friends.”

From left, CJ Coan, Lizzy Isyanov, and Josie Coan wear crowns after helping to lead the Dukes to their best state finish in the history of the program.

Photo by Jeff Vorva

York fans supported senior Lizzie Isyanov in the state championship match on Oct. 26 in Arlington Heights. Photo by Jeff Vorva

York senior Lizzie Isyanov battles in the Class 2A state championship match in Arlington Heights.

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Don’t Take Snow for an Answer…

Has the holiday whirlwind left you longing for more family chill time together? Stay local in Oak Brook for an easy, hassle free “Fun”cation! Enjoy making lasting memories together that will warm your family’s heart this winter.

FUN

Find family fun for all ages in Oak Brook, with activities ranging from virtual reality to games to movies that offer enjoyment for parents, children and teens:

Create a new family mascot at Build-A-Bear.

Experience virtual reality by immersing your family in the movie Jumanji at Wonderverse or exploring futuristic worlds at Sandbox

DINE

Activate

Exercise your problem-solving skills at Activate as you jump, climb and laugh as you move between challenges.

Unlock more fun at Escape the Room with its 6 different interactive rooms.

Throw strikes bowling or try your hand at bocce at Pinstripes.

Try tech-infused indoor mini-golf with crazy courses and cool vibes at Puttshack.

Catch the latest blockbusters on 16 screens at AMC Theatres.

With dozens of restaurants and every kind of cuisine you can think of, you can keep it casual at cozy spots like Alter Brewing or Lazy Dog or make it a dining experience to remember at signature spots such as Fogo de Chão or Lucca Osteria Sweet treat lovers love visiting Stan’s Donuts or Lolli & Pops

Chef Claudio Lucca Osteria & Bar

Stan’s Donuts

SHOP

Oakbrook Center is Chicagoland’s premier open air luxury shopping center and home to more than 160 upscale specialty retailers in apparel, jewelry, tech and home décor. Visit the Midwest’s only Google store to see the latest in tech or swing by favorites such as American Eagle or Sephora Next up, pay a visit to Unchartered, located nearby in The Shops at Oak Brook Place to see why influencers are posting like crazy about this trendy retail newcomer.

Puttshack

Enjoy the Coolest Family “Fun”cation in Oak Brook This Winter

NATURE

To unplug in nature, bundle up and walk the trails in Fullersburg Woods. This woodland haven is the perfect place to enjoy uninterrupted family togetherness. Keep your eyes peeled for white tailed deer or even a bald eagle!

If you stop in the Nature Education Center, you can also see the remains of a 13,000 year old woolly mammoth.

PET

FRIENDLY

If you can’t fathom leaving your dog behind, don’t! Four of our hotels are dogfriendly so if you are bringing Fido, book your hotel room at Le Meridien, Hyatt House, Hyatt Lodge or the Residence Inn by Marriott Oak Brook. Oakbrook Center also welcomes leashed dogs and offers 2 dedicated relief areas.

The Hyatt Lodge Oak Brook offers a beautiful indoor pool with a glass ceiling as well as a special welcome amenity of kid friendly pool toys and delicious snacks. To reserve their Stay & Swim package, scan here:

Enjoy warm hospitality at one of Oak Brook’s seven hotels, each offering an unique guest experience. Whether you are looking for luxury or value, you’ll find the perfect place and space to unwind with your family. With attentive staff and comfortable amenities, your family getaway will be memorable beginning with check-in:

www.doubletreeoakbrook.com

www.thedrakeoakbrookhotel.com

Photo courtesy DuPage Forest Preserve

The Elmhurst Express

The legend of Fred Lorenzen

BY KATIE BOLINGER

Fred Lorenzen, known to race fans of the 1960s as The Elmhurst Express, Fearless Freddy, the Golden Boy, and Fast Freddie, was born in Elmhurst, Illinois, on December 30, 1934. He became one of NASCAR’s first non-Southern stars. Lorenzen’s love for racing began as a kid when he built a go-kart powered by his father’s lawnmower engine. He raced around Elmhurst until the local police intervened, telling him cars couldn’t see him. In response, he added a flagpole to the kart and challenged the authorities to “catch me now.” This playful defiance marked the beginning of his racing journey.

At 15, he and his friends would take an old 1937 Plymouth to an abandoned field, spinning it wildly to see who could flip it first. Though it might have

seemed reckless, this early fascination with speed foreshadowed Lorenzen’s natural talent for handling high-speed vehicles.

Lorenzen’s career started at a demolition derby at Soldier Field. The announcer called for five guys in white T-shirts and jeans to take their place in the driver’s seats. Lorenzen jumped the barricade and got in the driver’s seat. This was his first official win.

After graduating from York Community High School, Lorenzen began racing modifieds and late models in Illinois. By 1956, he made his NASCAR debut at Langhorne Speedway in Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, a broken fuel pump ended his race early, and he took home only $25 (about $286.14 today). Facing financial

struggles, Lorenzen put his NASCAR dreams on hold and turned to the United States Auto Club (USAC), where he built his reputation on Midwestern short tracks.

Lorenzen’s big break came on Christmas Eve of 1960 when team owner Ralph Moody offered him a spot on the famed Holman-Moody team. It was an opportunity that would change Lorenzen’s life and solidify his place in NASCAR history. In 1961, his first season with Holman-Moody, Lorenzen won races at Martinsville, Darlington, and Atlanta. He quickly became known as a “thinking man’s driver,” renowned for his strategic approach on the track.

From 1961 to 1967, Lorenzen became one of NASCAR’s dominant drivers.

Fred Lorenzen, in his racing prime Photo courtesy of Amanda LorenzenGardstrom

In 1963, he won six races and became the first driver in NASCAR history to earn over $100,000 in a single season. That translates to $1,009,033 in 2024 dollars. This feat established Lorenzen as a superstar and earned him the nickname “Fearless Freddie.” A reminder to “THINK!” was scrawled on his dashboard to keep him focused in tight situations—a mantra that helped him to stay one step ahead of his competition.

The 1964 season brought both success and sorrow. Lorenzen won several major races, but his friend and teammate Edward Glenn “Fireball” Roberts’s tragic death deeply affected him. Roberts suffered fatal injuries in a crash at the World 600 in Charlotte, a race that Lorenzen himself had competed in. This loss shook Lorenzen, and he would later say that Roberts’ death drained some of his passion for the sport.

In 1965, Lorenzen reached the pinnacle of his career by winning the Daytona 500. Driving a white 1965 Ford Galaxie emblazoned with a two-tone blue 28, he skillfully outpaced his competitors. He secured victory by a full lap just as heavy rain fell, cutting the iconic race short for the first time. This win cemented Lorenzen’s status as a legend.

disciplined about making his money work for him, which helped him retire comfortably later on.”

Lorenzen retired in the spring of 1967. “I want to quit while I’m on top,” he said at a dinner in his honor. “I’ve won everything that you can win, and there’s no way for me to go now but down.”

In 1968, Lorenzen’s fame extended to the silver screen when he starred as himself, the nation’s top stock car racer, in The Speed Lovers, a film about a champion driver caught in a world of

That year, he continued his winning streak with additional victories at the World 600 and other key races.

Ken Martin, director of historical content at NASCAR, is reported to have said, “Fred was very serious about his work. While some of the other drivers were out partying, Fred was in the garage, working on the cars. He looked at it as a business.”

While Lorenzen’s racing skills earned him fame, his financial acumen set him apart. Unlike many drivers who spent their winnings as fast as they earned them, Lorenzen invested his earnings. His daughter, Amanda LorenzenGardstrom, remembers: “They’d say, ‘Where’s Freddie?’ after a race, and someone would say, ‘Oh, he’s on the phone with his stockbroker.’ He was

racing and risk. Lorenzen’s appearance helped popularize NASCAR and showed fans a new side of their favorite driver.

He briefly returned to the track in the early 1970s, but Lorenzen left racing for good after a near-fatal crash in 1971. By the end of his career, he had competed in 158 races, achieving 26 wins and 33 pole positions.

A NEW FOCUS

After leaving the racing world, Lorenzen briefly worked as a race analyst for ABC’s Wide World of Sports, but he didn’t like the travel. In the early 1970s, he met his wife Nancy and started a family in Elmhurst. He sold real estate for Schiller Properties before joining Remax, where he worked until his retirement. “He was a popular guy in the community,” recalls his son Chris Lorenzen, “but we didn’t know he was famous.”

Left: Fred Lorenzen triumphantly hoists the trophy after his victory at the 1965 Daytona 500. Photo courtesy of Amanda Lorenzen-Gardstrom Above: A 1960s postcard featuring Fred Lorenzen at the Daytona International Speedway. Photo courtesy of Elmhurst History Museum

Seated behind the wheel, Lorenzen represented sponsor Park Farm Cheese, an Elmhurst business, in 1957.

Photo courtesy of Elmhurst History Museum

“He was a family man,” said C. Lorenzen, reflecting on how his father embraced his role as a father. Lorenzen was deeply involved in his children’s lives, often going beyond the basics of parenting. His son fondly recalled the tire swing his father hung from a sturdy branch 60 feet in the air. His children talked about their dad taking them and their friends on adventures, especially go-karting. If someone couldn’t afford the outing, Lorenzen would simply say, “They can go,” and cover the cost himself. “He retired from racing to have a family,” Lorenzen-Gardstrom added.

The Lorenzen basement, which was filled with trophies from major races like the Daytona 500, was simply called the “trophy room” and was primarily a space for playing pool. “Because racing wasn’t a Northern sport, we never really thought much about the trophies,” his son said.

“He’d get fan mail during the week, and every Sunday, he’d sit down, write back, and sign things to send out. I never really thought much about it at the time, but he always responded to people—whether they asked for autographed cards or extra fire suits. He’d just send it.

“My dad was just incredibly humble, and he was always incredibly kind to

everybody," Lorenzen-Gardstrom said. "He always taught us to treat everybody the same, no matter if they were the janitor or the company president, and he lived his life that way, he treated everybody with the same respect.” Lorenzen’s son said his father taught them the importance of hard work. He often said, “The sky’s the limit. You can do anything you put your mind to.”

In recent years, Lorenzen has faced an even more significant challenge: dementia. Although his diagnosis affects his short-term memory, his memories of racing remained strikingly vivid. His face lights up when talking about his NASCAR days, almost as if he were back on the track.

His children and doctors believe Lorenzen’s dementia is linked to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) from repeated head injuries sustained during his racing career.

Despite suffering from severe crashes and concussions, Lorenzen’s generation often returned to racing immediately, viewing it as a badge of honor. “He’d crash, get stitched up, and be back in the car,” Lorenzen-Gardstrom said.

"They just used lap belts and maybe shoulder belts when he was racing,” his son said. “They didn’t have HANS devices back then.” A HANS device (head and neck support device) is now mandatory in motorsports, significantly reducing the risk of serious injuries, including the often fatal basilar skull fracture, during crashes.

“I didn’t realize that my dad was famous until he started to get dementia. I started to take over and started reading his fan mail. He meant a lot to a lot of people. Some people had his picture in their helmets in Vietnam and would write him letters saying, ‘You know you’re the one that helped me through. Whenever I needed something, I looked at your picture for inspiration,’ and those are the really heartwarming things that I get to read,” said LorenzenGardstrom.

In 2016, inspired by NASCAR’s evolving safety standards and Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s advocacy for concussion research, Lorenzen and his family decided to donate his brain to the Concussion Legacy Foundation in Boston. “He wants to help others,” Lorenzen-Gardstrom explained. Since CTE can only be diagnosed through an autopsy, the family hopes their decision will contribute to the ongoing fight against brain injuries in sports.

Lorenzen’s influence extends far beyond his 26 victories. As one of the first non-Southern drivers to excel in NASCAR, he helped make stock car racing a national phenomenon. Today, Lorenzen resides in an assisted living facility in Oak Brook, Illinois. To fans, he will always be remembered as The Elmhurst Express—a pioneering figure who combined intellect with skill and left a lasting mark on NASCAR. To his children, he will always be remembered as Dad.

Chris Lorenzen, Denise Dayan, NASCAR Hall of Famer Fred Lorenzen, Amanda Gardstrom, and David Gardstrom walk the red carpet during the 2015 NASCAR Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.

Photo by Lance King and courtesy of Amanda Lorenzen-Gardstrom

After retiring from NASCAR, Lorenzen provided race analysis for ABC's Wide World of Sports Photo courtesy of Amanda LorenzenGardstrom

COMING HOME

Local soccer players return for Big Ten Tournament showdown

BY JEFF VORVA

When he was eight, Elmhurst’s Charlie Heuer tried out for a travel soccer team. It didn’t go well.

“I actually got cut my first year,” he said.

“Being cut from the first travel team…that’s been a chip.”

As in chip on his shoulder.

It’s something he remembers many years later as he is developing into a regular player on one of the top college teams in the country.

The freshman midfielder at Indiana University bided his time waiting for

playing time for most of the season but exploded toward the end of the regular season with a goal against Northwestern on Oct. 29 and another against Trine University on Nov. 11.

He was named to the Big Ten AllFreshman team as he finished the campaign with four goals and two assists.

It’s not bad for a player with a chip on his shoulder from the slight when he was eight.

Even though Heuer was disappointed with not making his first travel team, he was determined to come back and play the sport.

Indiana freshman Charlie Heuer, left, tries to get by a Michigan defender at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview in November.

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Quitting soccer or even trying to master another sport was not in the cards.

“I just wanted to double down,” Heuer said. “I got into soccer because my older brother (Will) played. I just wanted to prove to him – honestly, every time I step out there to make him proud – how good that I can be. That was my mindset. Double down and work harder.”

Heuer attended York but didn’t play high school soccer for the Dukes. He played for the Chicago Fire Academy before heading to Bloomington, Indiana, to start his soccer career.

Heuer and the Hoosiers played their firstround game of the Big Ten Tournament close to home on Nov. 7 at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, so he got to play in front of friends and family.

But the result wasn’t to their liking as seventh-seeded Michigan beat the second-seeded Hoosiers, 1-0. Heuer played 63 minutes and had two of the team’s 10 shots.

Despite the upset, the Hoosiers picked up the 14th seed in the 48-team NCAA Tournament.

Heuer said he loves soccer because it

takes a lot of work to secure a victory.

“Man, I just love the team aspect for sure,” Heuer said. “It feels so good to get the win. You know, it’s hard. Soccer is hard. You run around for 90 minutes, and it takes the whole team, but it’s a rewarding feeling when you get the job done. It’s a feeling like no other.”

Another player from Elmhurst on the

SeatGeek pitch on Nov. 7 was Maryland’s Luke van Heukelum, who got off one of the Terrapins’ nine shots in a shocking 6-0 loss to UCLA.

Van Heukelum is a sophomore forward who was limited to nine games due to injury and scored two goals.

Off the field, Van Heukelum has been making waves with his Team44 charity. When he was younger, van Heukelum had constant stomach pains, and when he was 13, he went to a hospital. At first, it appeared he had cancer. However, it was found that it was a stomach infection.

He and his family started the Team44 foundation to provide Xboxes and other connecting devices to allow patients to stay connected with their friends and family.

“During my 81-hour stay, there was a lot of uncertainty as I underwent tests to determine my diagnosis,” Van Heukelum wrote on his Team44 website. “What I learned since then is that many kids in hospitals have cancer and must stay much longer than me.”

Luke van Heukelum (right) is a mainstay for Maryland’s soccer team. Photo by Jeff Vorva

Elmhurst native Charlie Heuer was named to the all-Big Ten Freshman team in 2024. Photo by Jeff Vorva

Melanoma Risks, Treatment & Prevention

Dr. Rachel Bognet of CSC Steil Dermatology

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, and when treated early, it is also the most curable. Dr. Rachel Bognet, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at CSC Steil Dermatology in Hinsdale and Downers Grove, specializes in treating skin cancer. We recently sat down with her to discuss risks, treatments, and prevention strategies for skin cancer, specifically melanoma.

Q: What is skin cancer?

Dr. Bognet: Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of cells, often developing in areas exposed to the sun, such as the scalp, face, lips, ears, neck, arms, chest and hands. It can also occur in areas not directly exposed to sunlight, like the palms, soles and beneath the fingernails or toenails. The three common forms are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, the most serious form.

Q: What are the signs and symptoms of melanoma?

Dr. Bognet: The most common sign of melanoma is a change in a mole or the appearance of a new lesion (of any color) that is nonhealing, bleeding, painful/itching, or changing quickly. For evaluating pre-existing moles, I suggest using the ABCDE rule:

A is for asymmetry,

B is for irregular borders,

C is for color changes (like black, blue, or more than one color),

D is for a diameter greater than 6mm, and

E is for evolving size, shape, or color over time.

Q. Who is at risk of melanoma?

Dr. Bognet: Everyone is at risk regardless of skin tone. However, those with fair skin that burns easily, especially blondes or redheads, people with a history of excessive sun exposure or sunburns, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at greater risk. Additionally, having a history of non-melanoma skin cancer increases the risk of developing melanoma.

Q: How do you diagnose melanoma?

Dr. Bognet: Suspicious lesions may be monitored for changes during skin checks or biopsied initially. A simple skin biopsy is a quick, painless, in office procedure that yields results in a few days. Further staining or genetic testing may be done at the pathology lab if indicated. Depending on the depth of the skin cancer, additional testing via sentinel lymph node biopsy or imaging may be needed.

“Before embarking on a treatment course, I encourage open, honest dialogue with the patient and their family about which is most suitable for them.”

DR. RACHEL BOGNET

Q: Are there different stages of melanoma?

Dr. Bognet: Yes, the stages are based on a tumor’s thickness, ulceration, lymph node involvement, and spread to other organs. Luckily, most skin cancers can be caught early before spread has occurred since they are typically visible and palpable on the skin.

Q: What treatment options are available at these different stages?

Dr. Bognet: A surgical excision (removal of skin cells) for melanomas and Mohs micrographic surgery for non-melanoma skin cancers are the mainstays of treatment. Depending on the type and depth of cancer and age, co-morbidities, and lifestyle of the patient, other options area available. Before embarking on a treatment course, I encourage open, honest dialogue with the patient and their family about which is most suitable. At times, chemotherapy topicals, radiation, or even referrals to an oncologic surgeon may be more appropriate.

Mohs surgery for non-melanoma skin cancers involves using the aid of frozen section biopsies to completely remove cancerous cell in a skinsparing manner to minimize scarring and allow for best cosmetic outcome. We specifically use this modality for basal and squamous skin cancers in challenging areas of the head and neck, hands and feet, but also for larger lesions anywhere on the body.

Q: What lifestyle changes or preventive measures should people take to reduce the risk of melanoma or melanoma recurrence?

Dr. Bognet: You can reduce skin cancer risk by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants. Get adequate sleep. Avoid tobacco and limit your alcohol intake.

Protecting your skin from UV light is crucial. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily and reapply every two hours. Choose sunscreens with zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients. These are safest for our skin and our environment and pose least risk of allergy. Other measures for high risk individuals may include vitamins (ie. Heliocare, niacinamide), tinting car windows, and photodynamic therapy to prevent the damaging effects of the sun on our skin.

When outside, seek shade, especially during peak sun hours, and wear protective clothing that adequately covers the arms, torso, and legs; wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat that provides adequate protection to the whole head.

Avoid tanning beds, as exposure significantly increases the risk of melanoma, particularly early-onset melanoma. Women under 30 are six times more likely to develop melanoma if they tan indoors. The risk increases with repeated exposure.

Check your skin monthly and plan a baseline skin examination at your dermatologist office to determine your risk and ways to protect yourself. n

Anthony Michael Lopez on opening night of Camelot at the Lincoln Center

CURTAIN CALL

York’s Anthony Michael Lopez has built a storied career on Broadway

BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN

Many young actors aspire to perform on Broadway someday. For York graduate Anthony Michael Lopez, that day is every day. He is currently appearing in Our Town at the Barrymore Theatre.

Lopez began developing his artistic talents early in life at Elmhurst Children’s Theatre. He continued to hone these skills at York, where he

appeared in numerous theater productions throughout high school. Acting has always been his passion, and it shows.

One of the first amputees ever to appear on Broadway, Lopez is also a trailblazer in disability representation. As a leg amputee, his path has not been without its challenges. His biggest hurdle, however, has been overcoming others’ limited mindsets and biases about disability.

“Of course, my disability has slowed me down at times,” said Lopez with conviction. “But that’s okay. Sometimes it’s better to go slow. Ultimately, my disability is one of my greatest assets.”

If you find yourself in New York this spring, be sure to catch Lopez in Othello, which is set to open in February.

“I didn’t get home for the holidays this year. I miss green space and sometimes the quiet of the suburbs. I miss Chicago culture in general.”

– ELMHURST NATIVE ANTHONY MICHAEL LOPEZ

Elmhurst Magazine (EM): Have you always had a prosthetic leg?

Anthony Michael Lopez (AML): Yes, I was born with a congenital disability that affected my right leg. I’ve worn a prosthesis my whole life. I recently learned that I am only the third amputee to appear on Broadway. In many ways, my disability has been a gift. Kenny Leon, the director of Our Town and Othello, the play I’m doing next, wants to somehow work my disability into my character. But whether or not they’d admit it, a lot of people don’t want to see depictions of disability onstage or onscreen. I think they want to pretend disability just doesn’t exist. But the way I see it, disability representation just reminds us that our bodies are all limited in some way. Anyone can become disabled at any time – that’s something that

connects us all, regardless of race, gender, or socioeconomic status.

EM: How long have you been involved in theater?

AML: I started out with Elmhurst Children’s Theater (ECT), which provided excellent training. It was very professional. It’s where I learned the basics of stage technique. I felt very prepared and ahead of others when I got to college theater, thanks to my time spent with the organization and also York.

EM: What was your first-ever role?

AML: It was a show called Krazy Kamp at ECT. I honestly don’t remember it well except that I think it was the typical summer camp story. Somewhere, there are photos of me scaring a girl with a snake.

EM: What was your first big break?

AML: Camelot at Lincoln Center. I played Sir Dinadan alongside Phillipa Soo, who played Eliza from Hamilton. It was a five-month run. I had already built a career doing other theater and TV commercials, but Camelot opened a lot of doors for me, so it was a great experience.

EM: What is your favorite role you have played so far?

AML: It’s hard to say, as so many blend together at this point. I love Shakespeare. I did Titus Andronicus here at a public theater in NYC. My first semi-professional show was The Wild Duck in Chicago. I was still in college, and I got to work with professional actors who had a lot of experience, which was great. Their advice carried me a long way when I was starting out. It got good reviews. I like the classical stuff.

EM: What are you currently working on?

AML: At the moment, I am the understudy for Jim Parsons’ (from The Big Bang Theory) role, the Stage Manager in Our Town. Richard Thomas, who played John Boy in The Waltons, is playing Professor Webb. He’s done everything. We share a dressing room right now. When you’re in a space that small, you often become good friends. We’re similar in our high standards and love of theater. He’s in his seventies now, but he is still so gracious when people see us out in restaurants and tell him how much they loved The Waltons.

EM: Are there any actors you emulate?

AML: Anthony Hopkins, because he’s so simple. He doesn’t need to do much. You feel everything he is thinking and feeling. He doesn’t have to show you a lot.

EM: What would be your dream role?

AML: Definitely a Shakespeare role. I want to do all of Shakespeare!

EM: Have you done any film?

AML: I’ve done a bunch of film work. I was in Mapplethorpe with Matt Smith from Dr. Who, Broad City on Comedy Central, and Homeland with Claire Danes. I’m on season three of The Gilded Age on HBO, which started in November. I was in Survival of the Thickest as Michelle Buteau’s fashion assistant, Bruce. I did a Smart Water ad with Zendaya. I worked with Daniel Craig in Othello a few years ago.

EM: Do you prefer Hollywood or Broadway?

AML: We always want what we don’t have. It’s great to be on stage where it’s about that moment and dialogue and presence, with no recording of it. I try to have a balance of both because I think it’s important. Theater stretches a different part of the acting muscle than film. I really love the opportunities both have given me. I’m lucky to have a career in which I can do both.

Lopez as Sir Dinadan in Camelot

EM: How did you feel the first time the Broadway curtain went up?

AML: That was the opening of Camelot. I was terrified! But I think fear is a good thing. It’s never not terrifying to go on stage. I get terrified when I order a cup of coffee (laughter). I’m perpetually nervous. The nerves never really go away. But I think that might be for the best. Half of the thrill of performing is learning to deal with stage fright.

EM: Any special tricks to memorizing your lines and taking care of your voice?

AML: I’ve always had a good memory of those things. It’s kind of like memorizing a song. It’s just something you learn to do in this business. As far as my voice is concerned, it depends on the show. The voice demand in Our Town is pretty low. But for Camelot, I had to start warming up an hour or

two before rehearsal so the right muscles were activated and the ones that might get in the way were kind of relaxed.

EM: Is it hard to stay motivated to play the same part for so long?

AML: I just try to stay connected to my scene partner, and that always helps with motivation. There are differences every day because it’s live theater, and people bring a different energy to it every day. There’s always a new audience, too, so that’s something that changes as well.

EM: What are the best and worst things about NYC?

AML: NYC is crowded and dirty. There’s a real grit and reality to it. Walking through Times Square to get to work every day is a pain. But New York City is the best city. I arrived here 15 years ago, so it’s my

home now. I have a career because I live here. I couldn’t really do this elsewhere. The level of theater, film, and TV all in the same place just doesn’t exist elsewhere, except maybe in London. I love NYC!

EM: What do you miss from home?

AML: I miss my family, for sure. I try to get home two or three times a year, but it’s tough when I’m doing a show. I didn’t get home for the holidays this year. I miss green space and sometimes the quiet of the suburbs. I miss Chicago culture in general.

EM: What’s next?

AML: Othello. Denzel Washington will have the title role. And Jake Gyllenhaal is playing Iago. Kenny Leon, whom I am currently working with on Our Town, is directing. It previews at the end of next month. 

The Broadway revival of Our Town starring Lopez will conclude this January.

DUKING IT OUT

York football team makes history with second-place finish in the state

BY JEFF VORVA

For a few minutes on a freezing November night, York fans were in heaven.

The football team, making its first trip to the Illinois High School Association state championship game, had held twotime defending Class 8A champion Loyola to four plays on the opening possession, and the Ramblers had to punt.

On York’s third play of the game, senior running back Jimmy Conners came up with an electrifying 74-yard run, and Brennan Kennedy kicked the extra point. York had a 7-0 lead, and all was right in the world for the bundled fans wearing green on the West stands of

Hancock Stadium on the campus of Illinois State University in Normal.

But a few hours later, the final horn sounded. Loyola won 35-14, Conners was on crutches after suffering an ankle injury, and the fans were still cheering when the Dukes hoisted a second-place trophy. The players ran by the West stands and high-fived fans in the front row.

Disappointing result? Yes.

But the fans on this chilled night showed appreciation for the historic accomplishments of the 2024 Dukes team that went further than any other York football team.

York players console each other after losing the Class 8A state championship game on Nov. 30.

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Jimmy Conners and his teammates show off the state runner-up trophy to their fans.

Photo by Jeff Vorva

“I’m so proud of what this program has become the last couple of years,” said Dukes coach Don Gelsomino, a former assistant who took over the program in 2024 after Michael Fitzgerald left to take the head coaching job at Marist.

“It was a fun ride, and these players were amazing. They really set a standard for York football. We were one of the top three teams in the last three years. A couple of years ago, if we told people we would do that, they probably would have laughed. But here we are.”

After a 5-0 start in the 2024 season, the Dukes lost two of their next three

games and did not look good in either, dropping a 35-14 decision to Downers Grove North on Oct. 4 and a 24-7 game to Lyons two weeks later. Both were home losses.

But they put together a huge run that included a thrilling 20-15 win at Naperville Central in the semifinals. Senior quarterback Bruno Massel engineered an 85-yard scoring drive on the first possession and, on the last play of the game, ran back into the end zone to run the clock out and took a safety.

“The journey has been incredible,” Massel said. “We started the season 5-0 and then had two losses, and a lot of people doubted us. We went into the

“The journey has been incredible.”

- BRUNO MASSEL, YORK SENIOR QUARTERBACK

playoffs, flipped a different switch, and went into the next gear to get to the state title game. Unfortunately, we just couldn’t win it. But give props to these guys. I’ve been playing with these guys for a long time, and it’s been a great ride.”

In the state title game, Massel threw for 81 yards and ran for 141 more – including a 56-yard run – and a touchdown. Conners finished with 82 yards on four carries before his ankle injury. Simon

Kodoski had three catches for 55 yards. On defense, Evan Gaughan had 11 tackles, Aidan Link nine, and Noah Zmrhal eight. Riggins Kohl broke up two passes.

Gelsomino was amazed at his own journey when he was named as the Dukes coach in March 2024. Eight months later, the team was on the biggest stage in Class 8A.

“There were 154 kids in the weight room before the job was even posted,” Gelsomino said. “That’s the culture that was set for the last couple of years, and it’s paid off in the long run. That’s where we are as a program.”

Gelsomino pointed out that the Elmhurst community has played a role in the team’s success.

“It’s crazy,” he said. “Everywhere I go, it’s like you see people, and they say, ‘Hey coach, you guys are doing awesome.’ It almost feels kind of like the small-town football vibe, but you know it’s not that small of a suburb here. These people are invested in it, and they’re having fun, cheering, and screaming. It feels great just to know that you have that much support and you are putting a smile on their face.” 

ABOVE: Bruno Massel, left, and Jack Bodach high-five York fans after the Class 8A state championship loss to Loyola at Hancock Field in Normal. LEFT: York’s Jimmy Conners turns the corner on a 74-yard touchdown run in the state championship game against Loyola.

Photos by Jeff Vorva

THREE-PEAT

Nazareth wins third straight Class 5A football championship

BY JEFF VORVA

When COVID-19 hit in 2020 and the Illinois High School Association football season was postponed in the fall, some of the best players in the state left Illinois to play in states that allowed football during that time.

Some players from Nazareth Academy –including star quarterback J.J. McCarthy – left, and in 2021, that left veteran coach Tim Racki scratching his head about the future of Roadrunner football.

Four years later, the Roadrunners capped off an accomplishment that has never been done in program history.

They won their third straight Class 5A state championship with a 29-27 victory over Joliet Catholic Academy on Nov. 30 at Hancock Stadium on the campus of Illinois State University in Normal.

Racki was thankful to the members of the Class of 2025 for their contribution to rebuilding the team so quickly.

“The seniors here came in as freshmen, and it came after the shutdown when we didn’t have a season,” Racki said. “Guys had transferred to play football

A group of Nazareth players gather momentarily before playing Joliet Catholic in the state championship game.

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Quarterback Nolan Malachuk, who led Nazareth to three straight state titles, acknowledges the Nazareth crowd after winning the 5A title on Nov. 30 in Normal. Photo by Jeff Vorva

everywhere, and our numbers dwindled. These guys came in with faith in the program and helped to get the program back to where it was prior to that shutdown.”

“They made it to the quarterfinals their first year and left their legacy winning three straight state titles, which had never been done at Nazareth,” he said. “That’s quite a standard to surpass, considering the past success that we already had.”

Two of those freshmen played all four years on the varsity and made their mark.

Quarterback Logan Malachuk not only led the team to three straight championships, he threw 11,184 yards in his four-year career, according to Nazareth stat keepers, which would put him No. 1 in the state.

Stanford-bound linebacker Gabe Kaminski also made his mark on defense for the Roadrunners.

Malahcuk, a Burr Ridge resident who was still in the process of selecting a college after the state championships, said he is glad he could get to experience going to the LaGrange Park school.

“Coming in as a freshman, I didn’t know what to expect,” Malachuk said. “I knew about the culture and the success. But I liked the way they welcomed us all in and taught us the right way – the Nazareth way – how to play football and how to treat your teammates like brothers. I mean, yeah, state titles are nice, but I feel this group and all the groups in the past have done a tremendous job of staying together no matter what adversity we face.”

In his sophomore year, the Roadrunners were the first team with four regularseason losses to win a state championship. In 2023, the team was 4-5 and one of the last teams to qualify for the playoffs. It went on a postseason run and became the first team in history with a losing regular-season record to win a title.

This season, it was more conventional as the team was 7-2 in the regular season.

In the state title game, Trenton Walker had four catches for 122 yards and two touchdowns. James Penley and Kaminski had touchdown catches. Kicker Frankie Nichols kept a drive going with a fake punt and 24-yard run, plus a fake extra point kick that turned into a two-point conversion pass to Hank Sakalas.

Garrett Reese had 16 tackles, Kaminski 15, and Nolan Daly 11 for the Roadrunners.

Racki said this senior class was also special because the players stayed humble.

“As a coach It makes it fun when they understand the culture, they understand expectations, they understand the standard, and they understand the process,” he said. “They understand how we have to prepare, so it really makes my job much easier knowing that leadership and the expectations.

It’s not like I have to reinvent the wheel with them. But if anything, I could give them more ownership, which I did.” 

Trenton Walker hauls down a 74-yard pass to start the scoring for Nazareth in a 29-27 win over Joliet Catholic for the IHSA state Class 5A state title. Photo by Jeff Vorva

Nazareth’s James Penley, who had a touchdown catch and an onside kick recovery, soaks in the celebration after his team won the Class 5A state championship. Photo by Jeff Vorva

Nazareth’s Nolan Daly gets a hug during the Roadrunners’ celebration after winning the Class 5A title on Nov. 30 in Normal. Photo by Jeff Vorva

DITKAS

C L A S S I C S Y O U ' L L L O V E

T r y o u r S i g n a t u r e B e r k s h i r e

P o r k C h o p n e x t t i m e y o u d i n e

THE ICE THING about Downers Grove winters

Nadeau’s Ice Sculptures makes artistic fun of ice at Downers Grove Ice Festival

BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN | PHOTOS BY 726 VISUALS

If you’ve ever visited the Downers Grove Ice Festival, you’ve seen Jim Nadeau’s dream solidified – at least until the sun has its say. Nadeau’s Ice Sculptures in Forest Park began almost four and a half decades ago. They are the oldest and most well-known name in ice sculpting in the U.S.

Every unique creation is made to order. Each February, Downers Grove residents have the pleasure of seeing

their unique creations dot the downtown business district during Ice Festival weekend. Ice carvers hold live demonstrations on the south side of the Main Street train station. They start with a block of raw ice and finish with a work of art.

Each result is truly a one-of-a-kind creation. Each is sponsored by a Downers Grove business. The artistic ice carvers take the creative process very seriously – they once made

a 100-foot-long ice train for a Nabisco holiday party in New Jersey! It was 84 feet long and filled with Oreo cookies. Nadeau’s loves a challenge, and they encourage clients to be creative with their requests.

When Jim Nadeau founded Nadeau’s Ice Sculptures in 1980, he likely had no idea that one day, it would grow to become the country’s last word in ice sculpting. For a long while, he was a one-man band. He learned the craft

One-of-a-kind creations are carved at the annual Ice Festival in Downers Grove.

from a chef in Boston. His vision has evolved into a team of artists who carve blocks of ice into works of art at their huge operation in Forest Park. They can also come to your event and carve your request as guests watch – always a crowd pleaser.

Part of the fascination of ice sculpting is watching it happen. This type of artistry requires heavy tools, such as chainsaws, die grinders, chisels, saws, drills, and more. “You name a carving instrument, and we pretty much have a use for it,” said the current owner, Max Barajas. Each sculpture is a testament to the wide range of tools and fine artistic motor skills required to bring out such intricate details. “You would think tool companies would love us, but it’s the opposite because ice carvers always seem to want tools that get discontinued. We’re the ones who actually have a use for what they’re doing away with.”

On average, a block of ice takes anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour to carve. If it’s a large bar, it often requires 2 or 3 team members working together to create the end result. Precise shapes and forms are calculated using Computer Numerical Control (CNC) – a computerized mill that makes exact 2D cuts into the ice. CNC also controls the color added to the ice and dictates precision.

Barajas bought the company a little over a decade ago. He knows every angle - pardon the pun – of the business at this point. “I was introduced to ice carving through a friend,” he said. “I started out as a seasonal carver during college, then moved up to CNC Director. After that, I became the General Manager.”

When asked how he learned the ins and outs of ice carving, Barajas relayed, “I don’t know of any other way to learn this artistic skill other than just by doing it. Like working with any other material, if you can’t readily practice a craft, there isn’t much learning you can do.” The closest mediums to which he likens carving ice are wood and soap.

So, where do they find ice blocks big enough to carve their sculptures? As Barajas pointed out, “ice this size, outside of winter lake ice, is not easy to find.” Nadeau’s makes about 50 blocks per week in-house and uses almost all of it. The company also sells dry ice for the next time your freezer goes out or for shipping needs. Dry ice is also great for adding low-lying levels of special effects for holiday displays.

Fees are figured per block based on the average costs and difficulty, including the amount of material required. Transporting the sculptures usually happens in insulated boxes and bags and is easier than one might think. The firm makes every effort to be green with respect to packaging.

If you’ve ever seen the huge ice statues at Lincoln Park Zoo Lights or a professional sporting event or fundraiser, they likely came from Nadeau’s Ice Sculptures. You can make a statement at your next party or fundraiser with one of their sculptures. They’re the last word in ice carving.

Be sure to check out the work of Nadeau’s Ice Sculptures at the Downtown Downers Grove Ice Festival the weekend of Jan. 31 - Feb. 2, 2025. Visit DowntownDG.org for more information. 

A wide range of tools are utilized by the carvers for their intricate creations.

Educational SNAPSHOT

Private and independent schools continue to thrive

The western suburbs are fortunate to host several outstanding schools, many of which boast a rich history and a strong reputation for academic excellence. These schools offer diverse extracurricular programs and foster a passion for learning within their communities. Selecting a private or independent school is an important and often complex decision for families, with many excellent options to consider.

While visiting each school is essential to making an informed choice, understanding each institution's unique qualities from their perspective can provide valuable insights. We thank our partners featured in this exclusive Hinsdale Magazine Group spotlight section and for sharing relevant information to help our readers explore and appreciate the distinctive characteristics of each school.

MONTINI CATHOLICHigh School

Being 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 De La Salle. The LaSallian tradition recognizes the sacredness of all persons and educates students of diverse abilities, cultures, and socio-economic 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, culture, and know-

ledge 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 ten men’s and 12 women’s IHSA athletic teams and one club sport. 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, 95% 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 $84,000,000 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 well-rounded and academically prepared to remain successful throughout their collegiate years.

Nazareth Academy

Nazareth Academy, centrally located in the western suburbs in the heart of La Grange Park, offers a short commute for many families in the area. As one of the oldest educational institutions in the suburbs with a 125-year legacy of educating the whole person, Nazareth offers a small school atmosphere with “big school” opportunities.

Established by a pioneering group of Sisters of St. Joseph in 1900, Nazareth continues to be sponsored by the religious women of the Congregation of St. Joseph. Fourteen students were originally enrolled in a six-room house; today, it enrolls over 790 students from more than 100 local grammar schools in over 65 communities.

Nazareth values scholarship, service, spirit, and unity, which underscore the Congregation’s mission and support the Catholic Church’s values. The academic approach has resulted in a legacy of high-achieving students who care for one another, feel seen and heard, respect the school community, engage in opportunities, and find a place to grow. Nazareth is a family where there is something for everyone.

The strong relationships built between students, teachers, and college counselors underscore the value Nazareth places in helping ALL students to succeed. The academic investment in students is reflected in a long legacy of 100% college acceptance. The Class of 2024 graduates are now enrolled at 73 different colleges in 28 states with 44 million dollars in merit-based scholarships.

At Nazareth, 96% of students participate in a club, sport, or the Fine Arts. Student activities are a reflection of students’ passions and reflect the diversity of students’ interests. The dedication of studentathletes is incredible. Since the fall of 2021, Girls Basketball, Girl’s Volleyball, Baseball, and Football have all won State Titles highlighted by a football three-peat in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Nazareth fosters a culture of inclusivity and a welcoming environment. When this is added to the outstanding academic curriculum, Nazareth can successfully care for the whole person while preparing students for success in college and beyond.

For more information visit nazarethacademy.com. u

Timothy Christian Schools

Partner with a school that aligns with your family’s values.

Timothy Christian Schools is a PS-12th grade, nondenominational, college preparatory school committed to Biblical virtues and values. Timothy’s mission is to uphold Biblical truth, ignite academic growth, and inspire courageous leadership—one student at a time.

At Timothy Christian Schools, you don’t have to choose between Biblical values and academic excellence. Here, students experience both. Timothy’s Christ-centered culture and a curriculum grounded in a Biblical worldview work together to shape students into courageous leaders. Timothy prepares

students not just for college, but for lives of purpose, equipping them to lead with confidence and integrity.

Choosing Timothy Christian Schools is more than an investment in your child’s education—it’s an opportunity to partner with a school that aligns with your family’s values. Timothy Christian Schools believes in a strong partnership between parents, the local church, and the Christian school. We encourage parents to be on campus, volunteering and connecting with the Timothy community. It’s what makes us Team Timothy!

Developing courageous leaders is central to our mission. There are countless opportunities for students to

plug in and find their spot. From the athletic field, to the stage, to competing on Timothy’s nationally ranked business teams — there’s a place for every student. In fact, over 68% of high school students participate in more than two extracurricular activities.

Discover how your child will thrive in an environment that fosters academic excellence, builds strong leadership skills, and cultivates unwavering integrity. Schedule a tour today at  timothychristian.com/admissions and learn how Timothy can partner with you to prepare your child for a future filled with purpose and opportunity! The journey to courageous leadership and incredible opportunities starts here. u

Building an Army of Kindness

In a world that often feels rushed and impersonal, Pilot Pete’s Coffee with a Purpose stands as a beacon of kindness and connection. Inspired by his Grandma June, Pete Thomas created more than just a coffee shop, he built a mission to serve others, foster community, and restore faith in humanity.

From Coats to Connections

What began as a simple idea —to ensure no one faces winter without warmth — has grown into a movement that changes lives. Over the past ten years, Pete has made 116 trips to help Chicago’s homeless, distributing over 42,000 coats, countless winter essentials like boots, hats, gloves, and scarves, and serving 1,300 gallons of coffee through his mobile coat café.

Every coat tells a story. On a bitter January night, Pete met a young man in a parking lot asking for money. Instead, Pete arranged support through a friend. Six weeks later, the man called Pete to share he was working two jobs and moving into his own apartment. Moments like these remind us of the power of being seen, heard, and valued.

The Story Behind Pilot Pete’s Coffee with a Purpose

Beyond coats and coffee, Pete has reunited families, provided meals and showers, and extended kindness that restores dignity and hope.

Fueled by Community

The success of Coffee with a Purpose is driven by an “army of kindness”—volunteers, donors, and supporters. People like Priscilla reflect this spirit, “I am so proud to know these wonderful people. After the passing of my grandmother, they made sure I smiled and shed no tears, reminding me that my grandmother is always with me. They care not only for me but for my mother, and the smiles they give us mean so much. I have and will always support Pilot Pete’s because they are about caring, sharing, and giving. Thank you, Pilot Pete, for what you do.”

Join the Movement

At Pilot Pete’s, kindness is part of everyday life. Every other Friday, the shop donates 20% of proceeds to local charities or families in need, while customers share acts of kindness that inspire others.

Looking ahead, Coffee with a Purpose is growing as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, Reviving Faith in Humanity, to expand its mission and reach more people.

You can make a difference in many ways: volunteering, donating winter coats or winter essentials like hats and gloves, or contributing via Venmo: @CoffeewithaPurpose.

Together, we can deliver warmth, connection, and hope — because love always wins. ◆

Compassion in Action

The joy of volunteering with animals

BY HINSDALE MAGAZINE GROUP STAFF

Winter months bring an increased need for volunteers at animal shelters and rescues. As the season adds challenges such as overcrowding and limited resources, organizations rely heavily on foster families and community volunteers to ensure animals receive the care they need. This is the perfect time for families to get involved, fostering teamwork and teaching children the importance of helping those in need. Below are a few organizations families and individuals can volunteer with this winter season.

Oakbrook Cat Rescue offers opportunities to foster cats, kittens, or entire feline families for short- or long-term periods. Veterinary care, food, and litter are provided, making fostering a rewarding and manageable experience. Volunteers can also assist at adoption events.

Visit OakbrookCatrRescue.org for more information.

The Hinsdale Humane Society provides youth-focused programs like Pawsitive Impact for children in grades 6–8 and Teenternships for ages 15–17, allowing young people to help with shelter tasks, animal care, and events. High schoolers can join the Junior Board to organize fundraisers and promote adoptable pets.

Visit HinsdaleHumaneSociety.org for more information.

The West Suburban Humane Society in Downers Grove, Illinois, is a non-profit animal welfare organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need. They provide shelter, medical care, and adoption services while promoting responsible pet ownership. Volunteers and community support play a vital role in their compassionate mission.

Visit WSHS-DG.org for more information.

A Caring Place in Westmont is an all-volunteer dog rescue organization seeking foster families, adoption counselors, and event volunteers. Whether you can foster a dog awaiting adoption or help fundraise, your contributions make a significant and empowering impact.

Visit ACaringPlaceHS.org for more information.

Underdog Railway Rescue in Elmhurst is a non-profit organization focused on saving dogs from high-risk situations, including euthanasia and neglect. They provide medical care, rehabilitation, and foster placement until adoption. Dedicated volunteers and community support help them ensure rescued animals find safe, loving homes and a brighter future.

Visit their Facebook page at Facebook.com/ UnderdogRailway for more information.

DuPage County Animal Services in Wheaton is undergoing shelter construction, limiting in-shelter volunteer opportunities. While unable to accommodate one-time or group volunteers, they urgently need foster caregivers. Foster volunteers provide temporary homes where animals receive medical treatment and behavioral support or await adoption. This critical role offers kittens, cats, dogs, rabbits, and more a second chance.

Visit DuPageCounty.gov for more information. 

The DuPage County UndergrounD Railroad

Local Underground Railroad stations invite visitors to hear freedom seekers’ stories

BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN

From the start of slavery, freedom seekers (formerly known as enslaved people) sought a better situation than the one into which they were born or sold. The 1860s found the nation embroiled in the Great Civil War, with slavery as a major issue of contention between the Union and the Confederacy. Wherever there was slavery, there were efforts to escape.

The Underground Railroad was a movement of resistance to slavery overseen by conductorspeople who secretly hid, guided, or transported freedom seekers on their quest for sanctuary. Under the cover of darkness, freedom seekers moved from one station – or hiding place – to the next, literally risking life and limb for the price of asylum. Gauging the length of time available to move was crucial to success. From this area, the eventual destination was usually Canada.

DuPage County was home to many abolitionists who vehemently opposed slavery. Read on to familiarize yourself with a few stations inviting visitors to journey into the past.

BLODGETT HOUSE – DOWNERS GROVE

This is the home of outspoken abolitionists Israel and Avis Blodgett and among the oldest homes in Downers Grove. This house is respected as a significant station on the Underground Railroad and is now a museum partially dedicated to this moment in history from DuPage County’s standpoint. Renovations to the property substantiated the Blodgett’s assistance to freedom seekers when construction workers found abolitionist newspapers stuffed into the walls. The home is now recognized as part of The Network to Freedom – a National Park Service program that preserves, documents, and promotes the history of the Underground Railroad.

Pierce Downers Home

Photo courtesy of Downers Grove Museum

PIERCE DOWNER HOME –DOWNERS GROVE

Downers Grove founders Pierce and Lucy Ann Downer kindly opened their home to runaway enslaved people at what became a station on the Underground Railroad. Freedom seekers were transported by wagon at night, hidden under animal hides. They entered through the cellar door on the home’s south side, where they ate and slept during daylight hours. The rough-cut stone steps leading to the cellar entrance are the exact ones traversed by freedom seekers.

GRAUE MILL – HINSDALE

named for the first and second presidents of the college, Jonathan, and his son, Charles Blanchard. The building was a stop on the Underground Railroad, where fugitive freedom seekers were harbored on their way north to Canada. This stop had a reputation for being particularly safe, and it is further rumored that freedom seekers felt perfectly at ease here, even when no attempt was made to conceal their presence. The lobby of this building exhibits African American history, particularly accounts of freedom seekers.

This mill was run by German immigrant abolitionist and Underground Railroad conductor Frederick Graue. Graue hid freedom seekers in the cellar of the 170-year-old flourproducing mill on their flight to Canada. A busy inn located nearby was rumored to be a part of the movement through a tunnel that allegedly connected the two properties. Now a museum, visitors are welcome to visit and see an interactive exhibit that documents this station’s history.

BLANCHARD HALL – WHEATON

This picturesque and architecturally significant building is found on the campus of Wheaton College – an abolitionist community from its founding in 1860. Blanchard Hall is

SHELDON PECK HOME – LOMBARD

Noted folk artist Sheldon Peck was a resident of Lombard who became known for the portraits he painted of neighbors, particularly for the character and personality he brought out in subjects. A staunch abolitionist, Peck’s Lombard home served as a safe house for freedom seekers. The claims are substantiated by the artist’s son, Frank, who kept a diary in which he accounted for seven freedom seekers who lived with his family. The portraits he painted solidify his family’s involvement in the Underground Railroad and contribute to a greater understanding of social justice in 19th-century DuPage County. 

Graue Mill

Photo by Victor Hilitski

Sheldon Peck (c. 1850-1860)

Photo courtesy of The Peck Family Descendents and Lombard Historical Society

Clearing the Air

The American Lung Association and the local Fight for Air Climb

BY ANNA HUGHES | PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE AMERICAN LUNG ASSOCIATION

It’s not easy having to fight for air.

It’s unfair when the most basic human need—breathing— becomes a daily battle.

Unfortunately, that’s the reality for tens of millions of Americans living with a variety of lung health conditions: lung and respiratory diseases, asthma, and lung cancer, which is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. The American Lung Association (ALA) says that about every two minutes, someone in the U.S. learns they have the disease. Furthermore, lung cancer claims the lives of over 340 people each day. That’s why the ALA is working so hard to fight this battle.

Every year, more than 20 million people are helped by ALA’s programs and initiatives focused on education, advocacy, and research. But they’re more

than just a big charity with big goals; they are working personally with individuals each and every day to make the world a safer and healthier place.

“We have lung health navigators available for [people] to call 24/7. If they get newly diagnosed with something, they have somebody walking them through those steps of treatment, diagnosis, what questions they should ask their doctors, what questions they may have for us,” Danielle Trojanek, the executive director for the ALA in the Greater Chicago area, explained.

“We also have a [24/7] quit-line for those that might want to learn how to quit smoking… We [also] do home assessments for those impacted by asthma. When we go into their homes, we assess their home and the quality of the air they’re breathing, and we will provide free resources, such as changing out their filters.”

One way the ALA raises money for these initiatives and others is through their Fight for Air Climb. This popular fundraising event takes place in dozens

Fight for Air Climb will once again take place on March 9 at Oakbrook Terrace Tower.

Local firefighters and first responders participate in the climb.

of cities around the country, including Chicago and Oak Brook. On Mar. 9, 2025, participants can climb the 984 stairs to the top of the Oakbrook Terrace Tower alongside others—helping fight for those who can’t.

“It really began by just saying, like, ‘Let’s climb. Let’s get fit. Let’s take the stairs for clean air and healthy lungs,’” Trojanek said. “From there, we’ve been at the Oakbrook Terrace Tower for many years now, climbing 30 floors of stairs for lung health, for those impacted by lung disease, for those advocating for lung health, and it’s an opportunity for people to come together.”

This is a fitness challenge for people of all ages and athletic abilities. Some participants will see how quickly they can scale the stairs multiple times. (Trojanek said that some climbers achieve up to 11 rounds.) Others choose to walk as a family or with friends. Local firefighters and first responders participate as well—in full gear—to symbolize that they constantly put their lives and lungs on the line for the community.

No matter your time, skill set, or reason for climbing, it’s all about coming together for a cause and raising money for a cure.

“It’s an overwhelming feeling of gratitude, obviously, for all of our supporters there, but for them, they see it as inspiration to be able to climb when others can’t,” Trojanek said. “A lot of the teams are doing it for somebody who might not be able to.”

“A lot of the teams are doing it for somebody who might not be able to.”

- DANIELLE TROJANEK

“And then a lot of them,” Trojanek continued, “maybe they have gone through a lung transplant themselves, and they want to be able to prove to themselves that they can do this too, and so they actually have that overwhelming feeling of accomplishment.”

Each climber is asked to raise $100 to participate in the climb. This allows

participants a chance to share their reasoning for climbing with neighbors or friends, hopefully raising additional awareness in the process. In many cases, fundraising is not about the cash but, instead, about the connection.

“We’ve seen as much as $30,000 from an individual team that was supporting their mother that had a lung transplant, and they came together, and they were just shocked at the amount of support that they received,” Trojanek said. “Others were saying, ‘I’m touched by this, I’m moved by this mission.’ I didn’t realize, you know, that there were so many people that I knew that who were impacted.’”

Anyone who donates can feel confident that their money is going: 90 cents of every dollar raised goes directly to their mission of changing lives.

“I think that’s really important because not every organization has that charity status that we do. So we’re really proud of that,” Trojanek said.

For more information on the Oak Brook and Chicago Fight for Air Climbs and how you can get involved, visit Lung.org. 

Fight for Air Climb takes place in dozens of cities around the country.

AFTER the ASHES

Holocaust survivor Eric Blaustein

BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN

The Holocaust was among the darkest hours in history. How survivors carry their memories is as varied as the individual stories themselves. In honor of Holocaust Remembrance Day – January 27 – local resident Eric Blaustein reflected on the five months he was imprisoned at Buchenwald Concentration Camp near Weimar, Germany as a young man. While the nightmare was not something he will ever forget, he has never let it define him, either. After the war, he went on to serve in the Israeli Army, married, had a family, and emigrated to the United States, where he had a very successful engineering career.

“The truth is, I don’t want to be a Holocaust survivor by definition,” Blaustein feels. “I survived something horrible, but I went on to live a

full life after that. I also realize, however, that talking about The Holocaust will remind people what can happen if we’re anti-anything.”

Blaustein sat down with Hinsdale Magazine Group’s Contributing Editor, Maureen Callahan, in his Lombard home to share his thoughts on that moment in time.

Hinsdale Magazine Group (HMG): What do you remember from before the war?

Eric Blaustein (EB): I grew up in a middle-class family in Chemnitz, which was in Saxony in East Germany. I had a very nice childhood before Hitler came to power when I was in first grade. Even after that, my parents protected me very well. My father had many non-Jewish friends, such as the landlord of our property. He was a sort of person of

influence. He helped keep us safe for a long time. As a Jew, you weren’t going to survive the war without non-Jewish friends.

HMG: Did others help your family hide?

EB: Yes. I was almost arrested at age 15, but our non-Jewish friends paid off the authorities. I had false papers that made me part of the Hitler Youth, so for a while, I could hide in the open. As things got more dangerous, I knew I had to disappear. My family split up. My mother took my sisters and went to a relative’s house in a safer area. My father and I went into hiding separately. I stayed wherever I could for as long as I could and pretended to be a nephew or some other relative, but I was a tall kid and hard to hide by then. By that point, they were drafting 16-yearolds, so I could only stay in one place

Eric Blaustein

Photo courtesy of Hannah Alani and WCBU Peoria

until someone noticed me and questioned why I wasn’t in the military. If the people hiding me had been caught, they would have been sent to a concentration camp, too, so they risked a lot to help me.

HMG: Do you remember getting arrested?

EB: I was 16 years old when I was finally caught. I had gone out to buy a newspaper, and the police figured me out. The irony of this part of the story is that they thought I was a Communist. Communists were hung that very night for treason. I told them I was Jewish, knowing they would send me to a concentration camp, but at least it would buy me some time. It’s ironic that being Jewish could save my life at that moment. That night, I was transported by train to Weimar and then taken by truck to Buchenwald Concentration Camp.

HMG: What do you remember of Buchenwald?

EB: The moment I arrived, I asked some guards to see a former neighbor of my family, whom I knew was an overseer of the camp. He was a friend of my father’s. My father had told me to ask for him if I was ever taken to Buchenwald. At first, the guards weren’t going to let me see him. After some convincing, I told them if something happened to me before this friend knew I was there, he would have their necks. Reluctantly, they walked me to his office on a very circuitous route – I don’t think they wanted me to know where I was.

HMG: Do you credit your survival to anyone in particular?

EB: This friend of my father’s, definitely. At first, he did not recognize me, but after I brought up some old specific memories of his children, he made the connection. The first thing he said was, ‘Buchenwald has no Jews left. You have to die tonight, or they’ll kill you first thing in the morning for sport.’ I got scared, but what he meant was I would have to die on paper. I had to change my identity. So, they took the patch off an Italian fellow’s uniform who had actually died that

night and switched it with mine. The Nazis kept very exact records and would have noticed if the body count was off in the morning. So, all of a sudden, my name was Luigi, and I was out of immediate danger.

HMG: Did you have a job in the camp?

EB: Yes. Two days after I assumed the identity of that Italian fellow, I was shipped off for work detail at a satellite camp about 40 miles from Buchenwald. The prisoners there were building a gasoline factory. Looking back, it was much safer out there, because there was less chance of anyone realizing my identity had changed. When I arrived, the Italian guys around me said, ‘stick with us. We’ll help you get by.’ And they did. The master sergeant I reported to was in his 30s. He became like a father to me. I got sick at one point, and these guys hid me in a mine shaft and fed me. I owe my life to those Italians.

“As a Jew, you weren’t going to survive the war without non-Jewish friends.”

– ERIC BLAUSTEIN, HOLOCAUST SURVIVOR

HMG: How did you get through the days?

EB: In the camps, living was day-to-day. The food was terrible, and there wasn’t much of it. We worked 12 hours a day in the cold. There was very little heat and never enough clothing. Sometimes we would warm up in a nearby coal mine where there were fires, but we were usually chased out once the guards realized we were in there. There wasn’t much hope until one day, my fellow inmates somehow managed to get hold of a radio and found a station where we could listen to the Allied reports. We learned the U.S. had crossed the Rhine River. That gave us strength.

HMG: What do you remember about the liberation of the camp?

EB: I remember the day the Americans came – April 16, 1945. I nearly got myself killed because it was a

cold, raw day, and the Germans had already fled the camp. They left stuff behind. I had found one of their coats and put it on. When the American tanks rolled in, the soldiers pointed a gun at me, thinking I was one of the Germans. I said to the Americans, ‘Don’t shoot! You bring liberty to me.’ I just remember clearly thinking, ‘If they’re here, I’m free!’

HMG: What happened after the liberation?

EB: My whole family survived, which wasn’t what happened to most German Jews. First, the Red Cross came in and gave us food and medical attention. What many people don’t realize is that most survivors did not leave the camp right away because we were weak and many were sick. They didn’t really know what to do with us at first. After about three weeks, many people were strong enough to move around, but I had already left because I wanted to find my mother. Two other guys were headed the same way, so we walked together for about 200 miles to the town where my mother had hidden with relatives.

HMG: Did you ever see any other survivors again?

EB: I saw the master sergeant again – the one who had looked out for me. It was several years later at a restaurant his family owned in Rome. When we were in the camp, he had talked about his family’s business. He had mentioned cassata –the traditional Italian ice cream cake roll. He had grown up in that business, and I guess he needed something to keep him going, so he sometimes talked about food. I somehow remembered the name of the restaurant. Several years later, when my wife and I passed through Rome, we went to the restaurant. I wrote a note on a napkin and asked the server to give it to him if, by chance, he was there. The next thing I knew, a procession of waiters brought a cassata to our table! He and I were able to talk for a while that day. I tried to contact him again sometime later, but he had passed away. I’ll never forget that cassata, though. 

It’s All in the Studies

The Transformative Power of Live Performing Arts

by Laura Michaud and Melissa G. Wilson

Live performing arts have a profound impact on both individuals and communities. From the artists who express themselves through their craft to the children who grow by sharing their talents, everyone involved is touched meaningfully. Audiences, too, benefit by gaining new insights, emotional connections, and life experiences. Whether drama, music, dance, theater, or poetry, live performances are valuable to all. Beyond the emotional benefits, these performances also have a positive economic impact. People attending shows often make an evening out of it, spending money on dining, transportation, and other services. Studies show that for every theater seat filled, patrons spend an average of $38.46 in the local community. That number can rise to $65 per person in some places, like Elmhurst.

In addition to economic benefits, the performing arts enhance the quality of life. Attendees often report feeling uplifted by their experience, which can foster a sense of community pride and belonging. People from all walks of life come together to enjoy performances, helping to build empathy and understanding across cultures. According to a study by Americans for the Arts, 78% of people say the arts provide positive experiences, and 72% agree that arts foster shared understanding between people of different backgrounds. Moreover, 89% of those surveyed feel that local arts venues are a source of community pride, and 86% believe it’s important for future generations to access cultural experiences.

The benefits extend to families, too, especially children. Arts education has been shown to significantly improve critical thinking, problem-

solving, and creativity, while also fostering teamwork, empathy, and self-confidence. By supporting and attending live performances, we not only help the economy but also strengthen our communities and contribute to the well-being of individuals. In the end, the arts create a vibrant, connected future for areas like DuPage, enhancing both personal fulfillment and community growth. n

About the authors: Laura Michaud is a founding member of the Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts and Stage 773. Melissa G. Wilson is a performing arts enthusiast, author, and renowned networker. For more information visit ecpa-elmhurst.org and networlding.com.

Begin

Your Happily Ever After in

Oak Brook

From Intimate Nuptials to Traditional Celebrations

Special Event Venues that Match Your Vision

• Engagement Party

• Rehearsal Dinner

• Welcome Party

• Ceremony

• Reception

• Post-Wedding Brunch

Exceptional hospitality and modern amenities for your guests

2025 WEDDING TRENDS

Although any wedding should be unique to the happy couple, trends often sneak their way into the celebration. We’ve rounded up a list of some wedding trends to be on the lookout for during the 2025 wedding season.

BY ANNA HUGHES

ELONGATED DIAMONDS



For the past few years, oval diamonds have been the leading pick for engagement rings. For future brides-to-be, jewelers say that elongated cushion cuts are on the rise. For an additional flair, consider a unique gemstone like a sapphire or canary diamond.

DOCUMENTARY PHOTOGRAPHY 

It seems many couples are ditching dozens of posed photos and opting for documentary style photography. This might include detail-shots, candid moments, and dramatic editing. These precious pictures might end up being the family favorites!

 TABLESCAPES

Many wedding planners are replacing dainty with decadence— especially in the tablescapes and centerpieces. Instead of classic floral arrangements, guests can expect to see unique and colorful craftings potentially including fruits and vegetables. Also popular will be a lack of florals entirely, focused on greenery and earthy tones.



DRAPERY

Dramatic drapery is one of the trends to watch out for most this wedding season. Expect to see stunning, floor to ceiling drapes—a unique way to add elegance and flair to a wedding during any season.

ALTERNATE DESSERTS 

Let them eat cake! And cupcakes, and donuts, and ice cream, and macaroons. The list goes on. Instead of traditional wedding cake, consider a variety of dessert options to round out your food selections.

ELOPEMENT 

Many couples are ditching the “go big or go home” mentality. Instead, they’re choosing to go small and buy a home. This is leading to an increase in intimate ceremonies and elopements.

 BOWS

Bows have been a staple of the fashion scene during the last year, and wedding experts say they’re not going anywhere just yet. From invitations to decorations and dress details, this subtle touch of femininity is a classic, yet playful, addition to the wedding weekend.

NO BRIDAL PARTIES 

The age of matching dresses or tuxedos for your seven closest friends might be coming to an end. More and more couples will be relieving their inner circles of bridal party duties and associated costs, leaving the altar to newlyweds only. 

DuPage Foundation

In early November, the DuPage Foundation celebrated its Annual Benefit: Through the Looking Glass at The Westin Chicago Lombard, welcoming over 425 guests. The event raised nearly $700,000, with additional contributions expected. These funds are vital to supporting the Foundation’s efforts in addressing community challenges and opportunities while aiding donors and businesses in achieving impactful philanthropy locally and beyond. “We are deeply grateful for the amazing generosity displayed by our friends and partners,” said Mike Sitrick, DuPage Foundation President & CEO. “It highlights both their trust in our work and the commitment so many in our community share toward investing in local philanthropy.”

Visit DuPageFoundation.org for more information.

Dan and Kelsey Curran

Michelle and Tracy Carlson (Darien)

➂ Natasha Dorsey and Chris Ward (Elmhurst) came dressed for the occasion!

➃ Through the Looking Glass Host Committee from left to right: Braden and Alice Waverley (Hinsdale), Krishna and Meghna Bansal (Naperville), Chris and Susan Burke (Naperville), Bill and Jen Blum, Co-Chairs (Naperville), Dorothy O’Reilly (Wheaton), Megan and Steve Shebik (Wheaton), Joan Morrissey (Wheaton), Beth and Mike Sitrick (Lombard), Steve and Emily Burt (Glen Ellyn – Not Pictured)

➀ Trustee Emerita Carole Cline (Wheaton) with her daughter, Patty McDougal (Elmhurst), accepting flowers from DuPage Foundation Board Chair, Bill Blum (Naperville).

➁ Trustee Betsy Goltermann and Ed Momkus (right) of Elmhurst with their guests from left to right: back row: Nicholas Beis and Carrie Buddingh (Naperville), Ingrid and Wes Becton (Elmhurst),

(Elmhurst), and front row:

41st Annual Dan Gibbons Turkey Trot

The Dan Gibbons Turkey Trot is an annual tradition and a meaningful way to start the holiday with gratitude and giving. On a cold Thanksgiving morning, 7573 participants braved the elements and took to the streets of Elmhurst and raised funds for the 17 agencies who help feed and shelter neighbors in need. Three foreign countries, 32 states, and 882 cities outside the City of Elmhurst were represented and came together for a great cause.

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➀ Lima Lima Flight team flyover

2024 Honorary Starter and Vietnam Veteran, Mark Madigan (left) with friend and 41-year Turkey Trotter, Dan Fogarty, Sr.

The Lawrence Family of Elmhurst heading to the Turkey Trot Thanksgiving morning.

Spring Road Winter Fest

Hundreds of families enjoy visits with Santa, sleigh rides, caroling, tree lighting and more at the Spring Road Business Association’s 2024 Winter Fest around the Gazebo on Dec. 14. Anna and Elsa from the Disney movie Frozen provided warm smiles while members of the Elmhurst Choral Union performed holiday classics. More than 100 new inter coats were donated to Warm Coats for Cool Kids thanks to Spring Road’s latest “We Care Initiative.”