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.
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.
HHonoring Talent, Triumph, and Community Spirit
appy New Year! As we welcome 2025, this issue of Hinsdale Magazine celebrates the remarkable achievements and vibrant stories that make our community so special.
Our cover story shines a spotlight on Tate Renner, a recent Hinsdale Central graduate who captured the nation’s attention on The Voice. His exceptional singing and country guitar skills allowed him to choose from various judges. Naturally, Tate chose the Queen of Country, Reba McEntire, as his mentor. His star is rising, and we can’t wait to see what’s next for him.
Speaking of Hinsdale Central, our local high school athletes have been making waves—literally and figuratively. The swim team continues its tradition of excellence, inspired by alumni like Olympic gold medalist John Kinsella, who set the standard decades ago. Meanwhile, the Hinsdale Central Golf Team clinched their 12th State Championship this year in a nail-biting finish, winning by just two strokes. And let’s not forget the Nazareth Academy Football Team, who secured a Class 5A three-peat. These young athletes are a testament to the dedication, talent, and teamwork that define our community.
For those looking to combine athleticism and philanthropy, the American Lung Association’s “Fight For Air Climb” offers the perfect opportunity. Held at the Oakbrook Terrace Tower on March 9, participants will ascend 984 steps to support this vital cause. It’s a challenge that truly reflects the spirit of determination and giving back.
Beyond sports, we delve into history with a feature on Abraham Lincoln’s journey through the Midwest. Learn about his family’s path to Illinois and explore the Lincoln Trail State Park near Decatur, a destination rich in historical significance.
Endurance is also a theme of this issue, exemplified by Clarendon Hills physician Dr. Bahir Mansur. A seasoned marathoner and triathlete, Dr. Mansur has completed an impressive 33 Chicago Marathons and shows no signs of stopping. At age 75, he is training for a marathon in Philadelphia, proving that passion and perseverance know no bounds.
We also highlight the impactful work of local organizations like the DuPage Foundation and the Assistance League Chicagoland West. These groups tirelessly raise funds and support programs that improve lives throughout our region, demonstrating the power of communitydriven efforts.
Winter in DuPage County brings its own joys, from the intricate ice sculptures at the Downers Grove Ice Festival to helpful village services like free sidewalk shoveling. And if a wedding is in your future, you’ll want to read our feature on the latest bridal trends to make your big day truly special.
Thank you for reading and for supporting our advertisers. Here’s to a year filled with inspiration, connection, and celebration of the extraordinary people who make our community shine!
Warm regards,
Scott Jonlich Publisher
Hinsdale's RISING STAR Singing Sensation Tate Renner
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Primary Care, Personalized
At Rush Concierge Medicine, we
take your health care personally.
We understand that your health and well-being affect every aspect of your life. We will work with you to prioritize your health by focusing on your wellness goals. Whether you want to stay active, better manage a chronic condition, or seek a more personalized health care experience, we are by your side. Rush Concierge Medicine is a membership-based primary care practice that focuses on highly personalized, accessible care. Our clinic is conveniently located in downtown Hinsdale.
As a member, you’ll have a personal physician and nurse navigator as your partners in every aspect of your health. Your team is always a simple call, email or text away — 24 hours a day, seven days a week. With same- or next-day appointments available, they’ll prioritize your concerns quickly.
“With concierge medicine, you have access to your doctor and nurse any time, and we really serve as your quarterback in care,” says Luan Elezi, MD, family medicine physician with Rush Concierge Medicine. “Our goal is to help you open up and discuss your health concerns so we can establish an open relationship and true partnership.”
Better Access, More Time
To build this partnership, Rush Concierge Medicine is tackling two of the biggest challenges in health care: difficulty accessing care and not having enough time with your doctor.
“Our patients are in the office for 90 minutes to two hours for their comprehensive physical,” says Marie Runyan, RN, BSN, concierge nurse navigator. “Many concerns come out when you have more time together, so that helps us really get to know you.”
The goal of breaking down these time and access barriers is to foster a strong partnership between you and your care team — which can ultimately help improve your overall health and wellness.
“Concierge medicine is more personalized and convenient,” Runyan says. “For example, if you wake up not feeling well, we’ll get you in right away. You’ll see your physician who knows you, your health history, your medications and your background.
Concierge medicine also makes it easier to manage the complexities of health care. “We will help you navigate everything from annual wellness exams to chronic illnesses and beyond,” Runyan says. “Knowing we’re there as your partner takes the pressure off of you to juggle it all.”
Investing In Your Health
A lot of people find their way to concierge medicine when they are ready and able to invest in their health. “Our goal is to optimize your health and focus on prevention so we can help you be more proactive with your health rather than reactive,” says Elezi.
To do this, Rush Concierge Medicine provides recommended screening and prevention testing specific to your needs. Your care team will work with you to determine if a deeper dive into different aspects of your health would be helpful based on your history and risk factors.
“Many of our patients are prioritizing their health, and they come to us looking for ways to prolong their life through prevention,” Elezi says. “By offering much more comprehensive testing, we can do more proactive disease prevention because we have more data to guide it.”
Concierge medicine can also be a game changer if you’re managing chronic conditions. Your concierge medicine team will help you coordinate appointments with your specialists and navigate the system, ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks.
“When you’re seeing five different specialists, there’s so much information, and there can be so much disconnect between providers,” Elezi says. “We know exactly who you see, all your medications, all your concerns, and all your appointments. That allows us to collaborate with your specialists, advocate for you and make sure everyone is on the same page.”
Become a Member
If you’re interested in becoming a member of Rush Concierge Medicine, you can schedule a complimentary meet-and-greet with the concierge medicine team to get a feel for the practice and providers.
To schedule a meet-and-greet or to learn more about Rush Concierge Medicine, visit rush.edu/concierge-medicine or call (630) 724-1680. Rush Concierge Medicine is located at 32 E. 1st St. in Hinsdale
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
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
School
Sports
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X-Rays
Infections
Mild
Rashes,
Abdominal
State-of-the-Art
Diagnostic
Walk-Ins
Marathon Man
Bahir Mansur has competed in 50 marathons and counting
“Although 26.2 miles is a long distance, it surprises me that once I start, I do not think about anything but finishing”
- BAHIR MANSUR
BY CHUCK FIELDMAN
Don’t tell Bahir Mansur that at 75 years old, he should be slowing down or should have started that process years ago.
The 37-year resident of Clarendon Hills still maintains his long-standing family practice physician’s office in Forest Park. And while retirement remains some-thing for the future in his working life, it’s something he does outside of work that seems even much more unusual for someone his age.
After he started running in 1984 and ran 1.7 miles at that time, Mansur ran his first marathon in 1985. He only missed one Chicago Marathon between 1988 and 2019. He sustained a left knee meniscal tear in the fall of 2020, which resulted in “severe and excruciating pain” that led to him putting a stop to his marathon participation.
“I greatly missed running the Chicago marathon since,” he said.
That stop in running put a hold on marathons, but there’s nothing like making a comeback, even after turning 75 in September.
Mansur said he is considering competing in the Philadelphia Marathon next fall.
“I decided to run at least one more marathon while I still can run a decent time,” he said. “I have started training for it and will increase the mileage gradually.”
To date, Mansur has participated in about 50 marathons, 33 of which were Chicago marathons. He finished all of them.
Other than the Chicago Marathon, Mansur has participated in multiple
Barhir Mansur runs a leg of a Transamerica Chicago Triathlon.
Photo courtesy of Athlinks.
Lake County marathons, six in Madison, Wisconsin, as well as the Wisconsin Dells, Rockford , IL, and Philadelphia.
“I used to run two marathons per year, sometimes three,” he said. “I found out that by pushing myself, I can increase the mileage; it came naturally. I would probably consult a trainer if I had to do it again, though.”
His personal best time for the 26.2-mile marathon is 3 hours 41 minutes.
“When I was younger, I was always trying to improve my time,” Mansur said. “At the present time, my best aspirations are to participate and finish. Although 26.2 miles is a long distance, it surprises me that once I start, I do not think about anything but finishing, and that is what helps me finish all these marathons.”
Along with the marathons on his resume, Mansur said he became hooked in 2015 on half Ironman triathlons, which include a 1.2-mile swim, followed by 56 miles of cycling and then a 13.1mile run.
“Prior to 2015, I participated in dozens of Chicago triathlons, including two of the Chicago Triathlon Triple Challenges,” he said. “My best part is the swim, especially swimming in a river, and the least fun is the run because it comes at the end, and the athlete is
exhausted and dehydrated.”
Mansur’s interest in challenging, physical events apparently has been passed down to his son, Paul, 36, who has participated in 20 half Ironman triathlons and completed two full Ironman triathlons.
“Out of the 20 half-Ironman triathlons, I have done seven together with him,” Mansur said. “My son gives me a lot of confidence when he is with me. It’s needless to say that he finishes way ahead of me, but it is awesome to see him at the finish line and to sit down with him and talk about it.”
Mansur has little explanation for why he continues to run marathons and compete in Ironman events at 75 years old. But the fact that he still enjoys it is sufficient motivation.
“It is very satisfying to be able to run and work strenuously at this stage,” he said. “I will continue as long as I can, remembering that age is a number.
Obviously, the physical benefits are weight control, cardiovascular fitness, and musculoskeletal benefits. In addition, mental benefits are discipline, patience, courage, and tolerance for pain.”
Mansur’s son, Paul, is very impressed, but not really surprised, that his father continues to participate in marathons and half triathlons. “It’s amazing that he’s still doing it; it’s been our whole life together,” Paul said. “He’s very stubborn, which helps keep him going, and he’s never really stopped with this. If you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready.”
Paul enjoyed having his father coach his youth soccer teams in the past and even later playing soccer on the same team. But still being able to share an activity with his father is extra special, he said. “Staying connected with the running and sharing it with him, there’s nothing better,” Paul said.
Bahir Mansur has participated in and finished 33 Chicago Marathons.
Bahir Mansur sets up in the transition area of the 2017 Half Iron Man Triathlon in Delaware, Ohio.
Bahir Mansur participates in the swim portion of a triathlon.
THE GOLDEN AGE
Hinsdalean, two-time Olympic medalist, looks back on legendary swim career
When 16-year-old John Kinsella returned to Hinsdale Central High School in the fall of 1968, his classmates looked at him differently. They marveled as his 6-foot-3-inch frame casually walked down the hallways as if nothing had changed. They wondered if he had.
After all, he had just won an Olympic silver medal.
“It was kind of the best of times; it was the worst of times,” Kinsella said of returning home after the Olympics.
“It was great, you know, the high school, they threw me a parade. I got to be presented at the homecoming game. My class gave me a silver box to hold my medal.”
But being a teenager was a weird time for Kinsella: he was living a double life. Although he was just like any other HCHS student—navigating the balance between homework, friends, and growing up—he was also a worldrenowned swimmer. He faced additional pressures: Olympic trials, breaking records, and being away from home for months at a time.
“All that was, you know, wonderful and great, a lot of accolades,” Kinsella said. “[But] the thing that was hard was because I now had a silver medal. Everybody thought I was different, but I wasn’t. I was just the same old guy, you know, the same old boy that had left, you know, five months earlier.”
Kinsella left his hometown of Oak Brook after the summer of his sophomore year to train for the 1968 games in Mexico City. After months of preparation, Kinsella was headed to the Olympics. He was a self-described punk, ready for the challenges coming his way.
“Everything is going smooth, and then about a week before my event, I get Montezuma’s revenge, and I’m feeling really crummy,” Kinsella recalled. “I’ve been away from home for five months because of training, and I was homesick…I’m thinking to myself, well, you know, no one can, no one can blame me for anything. I’m a high school sophomore. I just made the Olympic team…long story short, I was really discouraged, and like this close to giving up.”
As Kinsella prepared to swim in the 1500-meter freestyle finals, Hall of Fame coach George Haines walked up to him right on cue.
“He was very charismatic. All the swimmers loved him and adored him,” Kinsella said of the beloved swim coach, who was honored as the “Coach of the Century” in 2001. “He comes up to me with his steely blue eyes, and he takes me by the arm. He looks me right in the eyes, and all he says is, ‘You’ve worked hard for this. Now, make it count.’ And all the clouds that were overhead just went, and they just disappeared.”
Soon after, Kinsella earned his silver medal, making him the youngest male Olympic medalist in any sport—a title he held until 2004.
“It just shows you, you know, the influence a coach can have on an athlete’s life,” Kinsella said.
in
When he returned to Hinsdale Central for his Junior year, despite the ups and downs of being a hometown celebrity, he remained focused on his goal under the leadership of another stellar coach—Don Watson. Watson and Kinsella led the Red Devils to consecutive state championships. In 1970, Kinsella set American records in
“It’s fun to win individually, but it’s, you know, it’s really gratifying when you can be an integral part of a great team. I’m honored to have been that.”
- JOHN KINSELLA, OLYMPIC SWIMMER
the 500 and 1650 yard freestyle and world records in the 400 and 1500 meter freestyle. He was the first person to ever swim the 1500-meter freestyle in under 16 minutes and was named the 1970 recipient of the Sullivan Award, given to the top amateur athlete in the country.
Kinsella poses with a poster recognizing him for his success in the 1968 Mexico City and 1972 Munich Olympic Games.
Sixteen-year-old Kinsella won a silver medal
the 1968 Mexico City games, making him the youngest male Olympic medalist in any sport at the time.
“In its heyday, H.C.H.S., with Don Watson at the helm, was to high school swimming what the New York Yankees were to baseball – a dynasty; and John was, arguably, the greatest swimmer this school ever produced,” the Hinsdale Central Foundation said.
Kinsella went on to swim at Indiana University, where he led his team to division domination with four Big Ten and three NCAA national team championships. He continued winning individual national titles and once again joined the men’s Olympic
Kinsella visited the pool again 50 years later, this time for a new reason: the opening of the brand-new aquatic center. It’s named after the late Don Watson, the coach who changed high school swimming forever, both at HCHS and nationally. It’s a testament to the legacy that he left for generations of Hinsdale swimmers.
“I think the spirit of [Watson] lives on in Hinsdale swimming,” Kinsella said. “It’s fun to win individually, but it’s, you know, it’s really gratifying when you can be an integral part of a great team. I’m honored to have been that.”
swimming team, where he won a gold medal in the 800 (4x200) meter freestyle relay in the 1972 Munich games. During his collegiate career, he realized that he was exceptionally skilled in endurance swimming, outperforming his competition significantly. So, instead of hanging up his hat after graduation, he transitioned to marathon swimming.
“I knew I could win in marathons. I knew no one had the endurance I had. I mean, that was my forte,” Kinsella said. “For me, it was kind of like a no-brainer…I’m not going to do this when I’m 40, you know, it’s now or never, and I get a chance to compete and make some money, travel the world, have some adventure.”
During his high school and collegiate swim careers, Kinsella was considered one of the top swimmers in the world, breaking records both nationally and internationally.
Kinsella won dozens of titles from 19741979 and was ranked as the numberone marathon swimmer in the world. He finished with a race across the English Channel, which he completed in nine hours and 10 minutes—a new world record at the time. It was the perfect ending to an unbelievable career. One that all started at Hinsdale Central.
The current HCHS boys swim team, led by head coach Bob Barber, is continuing that legacy: They are the current defenders of back-to-back IHSA state championship titles.
“As an Olympic Gold medalist, John is the inspiration for many of my varsity athletes,” Barber said. “They dream of being in his shoes and having his level of success one day.”
Barber credits Kinsella and his teammates with helping bring Hinsdale Central swimming to a national stage, putting them on the map for years to come. Now, it’s Barber’s turn to do the same.
“As a member of the Streak [12 state championships in a row], John and his teammates set the bar high for our program,” Barber said. “The new facility celebrates all of their accomplishments and preserves the history of such an amazing program. We have John and his fellow teammates to thank for this.”
John Kinsella was named to the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 1986.
Heavy snowstorms have been dubbed “widowmakers” by the medical community for good reason. The first snow of the year, with its high moisture content, makes snow removal very dangerous for those who are deconditioned to physical exercise or in questionable heart health.
Has snow shoveling become a hassle or impossibility? Are you looking for help with snow removal this winter season? If you are over the age of 60 or have a disability, you are eligible for assistance through the Village of Hinsdale Parks & Recreation Snow Shoveling Program. Each year, the village maintains an updated list of volunteers who are interested in assisting others with snow removal in the community free of charge.
Residents interested in snow removal assistance need only fill out a request form to find a referral. Contact information for participating volunteers is then shared with those looking for assistance. A spreadsheet of volunteers is published, whom homeowners may contact directly to arrange a time for snow removal. The actual schedule of snow removal is set between the individual volunteer and the homeowner.
BREAKING THE ICE
Hinsdale volunteer snow shoveling helps residents while providing volunteer opportunities
BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN
Volunteers typically have their own snow shovels, but the village does have some to lend out if needed.
“While volunteers of any age are welcome, most tend to be high school students looking for volunteer hours,” said Mike Hayes, Hinsdale Superintendent of Parks & Recreation, who helps to coordinate the program. “The program serves as a platform to connect people. Residents who are unable to take care of this themselves are so grateful. It’s been working out very well.”
One such Hinsdale resident, 85-yearold Ed Weingartner, has received help from this program since it started. “They call the big snowstorms ‘widowmakers’ for a reason,” Weingartner remarked, as he laughed, “so I am so grateful for the help. At this point in life, it’s tough for me to shovel or push around a snowblower.”
While his driveway, walkway, and steps typically take less than a half hour to shovel, he would not be able to do it himself. “Whenever my volunteers can help, I appreciate it,” Weingartner remarked. “I realize most of these kids are in high school and have busy schedules, so sometimes they can’t come until evening. I’m just
grateful to know that eventually, my snow will be shoveled.”
And while it’s entirely voluntary, Weingartner has tried to tip volunteers in the past. “Any volunteers I have ever had won’t take any money,” he said. “They will, however, often accept a cup of hot cocoa.”
Residents are reminded that while the program is initiated by the Village of Hinsdale, no background checks of volunteers - or the residents seeking assistance – are conducted. Parties are welcome to screen each other as desired before entering into a working arrangement with a specific volunteer or resident. “I’ve found the volunteers in this program to be absolutely reliable,” said Weingartner. “Several times last year, they called me after it snowed to say they would be by to help before I even had a chance to call them,” Weingartner remembered.
“I’m so happy they have this program,” said Weingartner. “I remember looking for ways to help out as a boy scout myself when I was younger. It makes you feel good to help others.”
For more information on how to apply for snow shoveling assistance or to volunteer for the program, please visit VillageofHinsdale.org.
DISAPPOINTMENT, THEN ELATION
Hinsdale Central golfers win state
BY JEFF VORVA | PHOTOS COURTESY OF PAM DEVATA
Hinsdale Central senior Dru Devata was bummed out.
He thought that for the third year in a row, he and his Hinsdale Central teammates were going to finish second in the Illinois High School Association Class 3A boys state golf tournament by two shots.
See, the Red Devils tied with Evanston with 588 scores after 36 holes Oct. 18-19 at the Den at Fox Creek course in Bloomington.
Bloomington turned into Gloomington for the Red Devils because it was Central coach Serge Penksik’s understanding that the tiebreaker to determine the state championship would be the fifth score of the second round. Thus, the team lost by two shots.
“Having been there before and having lost the past two years by such a small margin, I knew how it felt,” Devata said. “I was pretty…I don’t think angry is the right word, but I was disappointed.
Why does this keep happening? We played great each of the three years. Why can’t we go out and win it? Why is this going on? Why is this not working?”
Shortly after Penksik shook hands with the Evanston coach and Hinsdale athletic officials congratulated Evanston’s athletic officials, it was announced that the tiebreaker was actually the fifth score for both rounds. Thus, the Red Devils won by two strokes.
Assistant coach Evan Haase, Isaac Schloegel, Dru Devata, Kevin Wesolowski, Michael Jorski, Mitch Ghaben, Constantine Verros and head coach Serge Penksik pose after winning the Class 3A IHSA state championship in October.
Penksik was glad he was mistaken, and so were his players, who were jumping around, screaming, and throwing water at each other.
“At first, my reaction was that we lost on the fifth card, so I could just see the disappointment building because I’ve seen that in the last two years,” Penksik said of his players’ reaction. “Then, the IHSA posted it on the website that they won. The kids were watching it and at that point, it became official. The kids were ecstatic. It was a big, big win for them. It’s a pretty meaningful win for the seniors.”
“I was completely convinced we lost,” Devata said. “No one really knew how the tiebreaker was going to be settled. We were waiting. There were some rumors going around but no one knew what was going on. It was a little bit nerve-wracking.”
It was Hinsdale Central’s 11th state championship in boys golf and first since 2019 making the school tied with New Trier for the program with the
most titles. It was also Penksik’s first as head coach, joining Jess Krueger (seven titles) and Russell Poppenhager (three) in the coaching winner’s circle at the school.
“The kids were ecstatic. It was a big, big win for them. It’s a pretty meaningful win for the seniors.”
– SERGE PENKSIK, HINSDALE CENTRAL GOLF COACH
Penksik, who also teaches orchestra at the school, could not have orchestrated a more dramatic weekend.
All six members of the state team helped score for the Red Devils.
Devata, who is heading to Emory University next season, tied for third in the state with a two-round total of
141. Freshman Michael Jorski was seventh with a 145. Senior Isaac Schloegel was 19th with 150, senior Kevin Wesolowski was 38th with a 155, sophomore Mitchell Ghaben was 59th with a 162, and sophomore Constantine Verros was 70th with a 164.
Devata’s graduation will be a big loss to the program, according to Penksik.
“He is a huge reason why we won and not just his score,” the coach said. “His leadership this year was something like I have not seen in a long time. He made it a point this year to be more teamoriented. He really took the team under his wing, and it really paid off.”
Jorski’s top-10 finish as a freshman was a boost for the Red Devils but not too surprising.
“He’s a young superstar who won the Drive, Chip, and Putt competition at Augusta National at age 12 and was on TV,” Penksik said. “He’s the future of our program.”
Hinsdale Central senior Dru Devata finished third in the state in Class 3A.
Hinsdale Central golfers hoist the state championship trophy in October.
GONE COUNTRY
Hinsdale Central graduate brings Music City to Hollywood on NBC’s “The Voice”
BY ANNA HUGHES PHOTOS COURTESY OF NBCUNIVERSAL
It wasn’t a blind audition for long.
An enthusiastic Michael Bublé turned his chair around just seconds after hearing a soulful, gritty country voice on stage.
His eyes widened at the sight of 24-year-old Tate Renner, whose cowboy hat was not quite big enough to hide his smile.
Renner didn’t miss a beat. The former Hinsdalean continued strumming his guitar and belting out “Hurricane” by
Tate Renner on the latest season of The Voice on NBC
Former Hinsdalean Renner now calls Nashville home.
the Band of Heathens on “The Voice” stage. It wasn’t long until he was faced with a choice: whose team he would join. Bublé, Snoop Dogg, and Reba McEntire all wanted him on their team.
“I would have legitimately been excited to work with any of them,” Renner said.
But as he called Reba’s name and hugged her silver sparkly jacket, he couldn’t help but think this could be his golden ticket to the country music scene: something he’s admired ever since he was a little boy growing up in Texas.
“There was definitely a pull towards Reba, just because [of] the country. I mean, she’s the queen of country, and I knew that I wanted to go that route with my music, and I knew she would be able to help a lot.”
“And we both have red hair,” he joked.
Although his audition for Season 26 has over 430,000 views on YouTube and was watched by millions on national television, the Belmont University alum swears the entire experience was a blur.
“I do not remember a single thing that happened,” Renner said. “I remember Bublé turning his chair, which was
about three seconds in…Once that chair turned, I was like, oh, okay, this is actually happening. I’ll be here. And after that, I don’t remember anything. Don’t remember the interview, nothing.”
Luckily for him, his experience on Hinsdale Central’s forensics team helped keep him calm, cool, and collected during the biggest moment of his life.
“It’s really just the beginning of my music career.”
- TATE RENNER
“I mean performing in front of those people and everything like that, I credit all my confidence or anything that I have on stage, definitely to those years at speech team,” Renner said. “A lot of people said for my blind audition, I looked very poised and relaxed, but deep down, I had no idea what was going on.”
Although his time on The Voice was cut short after being eliminated in the Knockouts, his music career is only beginning. He’s headed back to Nashville, the place he now calls home, to write some songs and hone in on his identity as an artist.
“[Success in the industry is} definitely just finding a niche, which I wouldn’t say that I fully found yet, but I’m still looking, and it’s still obviously a never-ending journey,” Renner said. “You got to make yourself stand out … It’s finding that group of people that not only support your performances and support your music, but they definitely support you in a lyrical sense or even as a human sense.”
In a sea of budding hopefuls, Renner has one thing most people don’t: Reba McEntire’s advice in his back pocket. It’s one of the many things he’s taking from his life-changing experience on the show. With enhanced confidence in his talent and thousands of new fans following along his journey, Renner is taking the next steps—in his cowboy boots, of course—towards his dream.
“I’ve been doing music for about five or six years, where it’s my own music. But what I’ve realized is you really aren’t starting until you fully commit. And so I’ve just recently fully committed,” Renner said. “It’s really just the beginning of my music career. It [doesn’t] matter until you really give it your all.”
To follow along with Renner’s music journey, visit his Instagram and TikTok accounts @taterennermusic, or listen on Spotify.
Renner and "The Voice" Coach
Reba McEntire
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.
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
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 everywhere, and our numbers dwindled.
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
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 regular-
season 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
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.
THE AVERY COONLEYSchool
Established in 1906, The Avery Coonley School (ACS) is known as a leader in gifted education and offers advanced learners in preschool through eighth grade a curriculum with the depth, pace, and complexity to challenge them to the fullest. Unlike most schools that only offer gifted education in pullout subjects, Avery Coonley is gifted all day, every day, every subject with students working a minimum of one year above grade level.
The faculty at Avery Coonley is highly skilled with over 90% holding advanced degrees. They understand the academic and social-emotional needs of gifted learners and are adept at differentiating their instruction to support individual learners. A Student Support Services Center allows students to interact with social workers and faculty specialists in literacy and math.
Unique programs at ACS include a French immersion program, which provides students opportunities to travel to France and Quebec and a competitive debate program which is rare in middle schools. Robotics and STEAM are integrated in the curriculum. Social-emotional and physical health and the fine arts are also championed and round out the curriculum, which supports the whole child. Students can also take advantage of numerous extracurricular activities including clubs and competitive sports offered at the school.
The beautiful, wooded, 13-acre campus in Downers Grove, boasts state-of-the-art technology, flexible space for individual and collaborative work, an expansive art studio, a music room, an orchestra practice room, a library, a performing arts center, a gymnasium, and Maker-
space. Outdoor spaces include 9,000 square feet of play areas, hiking trails, an athletic field, and a lowropes challenge course.
The 332 students at Avery Coonley represent 40+ zip codes in the Chicagoland area and come from a variety of socio-economic backgrounds. This is due to the school’s commitment to diversity and a robust financial aid budget for need-based tuition assistance. Upon graduation, ACS students are motivated citizens of the world, creative thinkers, and independent, lifelong learners ready to meet their full potential in high school and beyond.
ACS invites you to see them in action at their Open House for Prospective Families on Saturday, February 8th from 9-11am. Register at: averycoonley.org/open-house u
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
Notre DameSchool
Under the patronage of Our Blessed Mother, Notre Dame School partners with parents, the primary educators, in the sacred mission of guiding their children to Heaven. Our Catholic classical liberal arts education engages students’ natural desire for truth, beauty, and goodness. Through the integration of faith and reason, we form wise, virtuous, and free students who live joyfully as disciples of Jesus Christ, serving God and others.
At Notre Dame, we believe in providing the opportunity for Catholic Education to learners of all abilities and have built out our resources to address the varying developmental needs of our students through highly qualified, specialized staff and intervention tools. The school also offers an expanse of elective enrichment opportunities both during and after the school day, including the school musical, Student Ambassador program, Student Council, study skills, scholastic bowls, pottery, STEM, digital literacy, athletics and liturgical ministry opportunities. Notre Dame provides full-day kindergarten, fullday prekindergarten, and beforeand after-school care to support families.
The Catholic classical liberal arts curriculum emphasizes a depth of knowledge, critical thinking, problem solving, communication, collaboration, and cultivation of high moral character. Rooted in timeless principles and integrated with Catholic teachings, the curriculum spans grammar, logic, rhetoric, literature, theology, Latin, mathematics, science, and the arts. Teachers lead students through stages of knowledge, understanding, and wisdom while developing habits of focus, diligence, and perseverance.
Notre Dame’s community-focused culture replicates the warmth of family life, fostering kindness, communication, and safety.
Faculty members create a nurturing atmosphere by partnering with parents to seamlessly blend school and home life. Students actively embrace virtues like charity, justice, and humility through service and interactive community building experiences.
Grounded in its rich, seventy year history and multi-generational community, Notre Dame prepares students to thrive in their first-choice high schools and beyond. Graduates carry forward the school’s legacy of leadership, academic excellence, and spiritual formation and often return as alumni to continue their support of the school community.
Visit NDSchoolCH.org for more information. 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
VineAcademy
Burr Ridge’s premier private school, Vine Academy, is designed for curious and capable learners in grades K-12. We provide a personalized educational experience, embracing students with diverse learning profiles and abilities. Many of our students are gifted or twice-exceptional (gifted with learning differences such as dyslexia or executive functioning challenges.) Our smaller, supportive environment is ideal for students who experience anxiety in traditional schools; Vine’s unique structure promotes well-being and a positive outlook on learning! We are also well-suited for certain students with ADHD, as our calm atmosphere fosters sustained focus and a greater sense of achievement.
At Vine Academy, we prioritize the development of executive functioning across all subjects. Our daily project-based class, Projected Learning, focuses on essential skills like organization, breaking projects into manageable steps, and meeting deadlines. Students learn these
skills through exciting, hands-on projects, all within a framework that encourages personal growth and responsibility.
With about 130 students, we believe our smaller school size is a major strength. Fewer students means teachers are able to build close relationships, offer meaningful attention, and effectively target instruction. Teachers use proven strategies like integrated curriculum, multi-age grouping, and regular assessments to foster engagement and achievement. Vine students are held to high expectations while being seen as individuals with unique strengths and needs.
One of the cornerstones of Vine Academy is our commitment to being homework-free. We believe that children should begin the practice of a balanced life now by having time to relax, connect with family and friends, and fully participate in extracurricular activities. Regular skill practice is built into our curriculum so it doesn’t fall on the shoulders of parents; the only nightly requirement
is twenty to thirty minutes of reading, an activity shown to have real educational benefits.
Vine’s high school program offers a high-rigor, low-stress environment. High school students build meaningful relationships with their peers and teachers due to our inten-tional cultivation of a culture of kindness paired with a no-cell-phone policy. This approach stands in strong contrast to the traditional high school experience. Our high school alumni have gone on to achieve great success, attending top universities and programs such as the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign, Manhattan School of Music, Loyola University, Lake Forest College, Illinois Wesleyan, Oxford University, DePaul University, and more.
At Vine Academy, we’re more than just a school - we’re a place where students are empowered to reach their fullest potential.
For more information, visit vineacademy.com u
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
The Land of LINCOLN
State park and
trail
commemorate the 16th President of the United States
BY ANNA HUGHES | PHOTOS ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
Illinois wasn’t always the Land of Lincoln.
Abraham Lincoln didn’t even move to the state until he was 21. He and his family traveled from Kentucky through Indiana and into southern Illinois, where he eventually settled. Illinois, however, had only been a state for 12 years at this point. It was still a “frontier wilderness” (Illinois Secretary of State archives). As the state developed, so did the young boy, who eventually became the leader to unite the nation
and free the enslaved people. In addition to the documentation of his legal and political careers, as well as the maintenance of his home in Springfield, the state decided to ensure that his (literal) journey to success was preserved too. They call it the Lincoln Trail. As we celebrate this year's President's Day on Monday, Feb. 17, learn more about the historic park that commemorates the 16th President.
The Lincoln Trail spans over 1,000 miles from Kentucky to Illinois. It
follows the route that Lincoln and his family took before arriving in present-day Decatur in 1830. The 1,023 acres of the Lincoln Trail State Park, located just west of the trail following IL Rt. 1 in Marshall, IL (212 miles south of DuPage County), is operated and maintained by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources; it captures a moment in history that forever changed both Illinois and the country.
“All along these little back routes in downstate Illinois or central Illinois,
The park is named after the trail Abraham Lincoln’s family followed enroute from Indiana to Illinois in 1831.
there’s a route where you’ll see an early like picture of Abraham Lincoln without the beard. They call it the Lincoln Trail. It takes you through some little communities, little towns, little back roads… it’s a neat thing,” said park superintendent Tom Hintz.
Hintz has been the superintendent at the park for 12 years. He handles the upkeep and maintenance of the site, including all of the activities that take place there: camping, fishing, hiking, boating, and more. Hintz considers his interest in protecting and preserving nature and history to be a personal calling.
“When you don’t preserve places, they disintegrate. If you don’t do proper stewardship on natural areas, you start to lose a lot of the flora and fauna,” Hintz said. “People learn a lot from the history of this state from the history of some of the people like Lincoln. And, you know, hopefully, we learn some good things, and [it] makes all of us a better society.”
Long before this area of land became attributed to Lincoln, it was the home to Native Americans: The Miami, Kickapoo, and Mascouten occupied the site before it was ceded to the United States in the early 19th century (Illinois DNR).
“When you don’t preserve places, they disintegrate.”
– TOM HINTZ, PARK SUPERINTENDENT AT LINCOLN TRAIL STATE PARK
Fifty years after Lincoln’s death, the Illinois General Assembly authorized the Illinois State Historical Library to mark the exact route he traveled; eventually, the state acquired the first 31 acres of the park in 1936. The park was eventually dedicated in 1951 (Illinois DNR).
Since then, Hintz said that four site superintendents have worked to preserve the park in their own ways. Hintz is focused on the ecology of the site.
“We’ve got plants and birds that are here that aren’t found in too many other places. So it’s just kind of a neat thing. Every day you see something different,” he said.
The Illinois DNR points out a few noteworthy features of the land: The preserve has a beech-maple forest that hasn’t changed much from its pioneer days. (Southern Illinois and the eastern border of the state are the only areas where the American beech grows in Illinois.) The park also has squaw-root and beech drops, two unusual wildflowers that lack chlorophyll.
Visitors can see this and much more at one of the many campsites by enjoying a meal at the park’s restaurant or by driving along the trail. It’s a blast from the past preserved for people across the country to enjoy. It’s also a (very tall) hat tip to one of America’s best, who deserves to be honored—both President’s Day and always.
Hinsdale Magazine Group appreciates the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for contributing information to this article.
Lincoln Trail State Park offers recreational activities such as boating, camping, fishing, hiking and winter sports.
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.
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.
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.
DuPage Foundation
➀ Trustee Emerita Carole Cline (Wheaton) with her daughter, Patty McDougal (Elmhurst), accepting flowers from DuPage Foundation Board Chair, Bill Blum (Naperville). ➁ Alix and Sarah Charles (Hinsdale) ➂ Host Committee members Trustee Braden Waverley and Alice Waverley (front right) with their table (from left to right): Pete and Joan Vilim (Elmhurst), Michael and Amber Quirk (Downers Grove), Chris and Claudine Schramko (Hinsdale), and Mary and Mark Henneman (Hinsdale) 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)
Assistance League Chicagoland West
PHOTOS BY MICHELLE JAMES
The Assistance League Chicagoland West hosted its annual Books & Brunch in early November at The Abbington in Glen Ellyn. Close to 500 attendees joined the lively conversation with Pulitzer Prize Winner Jonathan Eig as well as authors Luis Urrea and Libby Fischer Hellmann, and moderator Andrea Thome. The Assistance League Chicagoland West supports DuPage and western Cook Counties through programs like Operation School Bell, aiding students with clothing, literacy, and necessities. Other initiatives include New Start for housing essentials, Scholars Support scholarships, Community Outreach crisis aid, and Assisteens, where teens develop community service projects, fostering education, stability, and self-sufficiency. Visit ALCW.org for more information.
➀ Books & Brunch featured authors Luis Urrea, Libby Fischer Hellmann, and Jonathan Eig. ➁ Assistance League members Laura Morse and Patricia St. Cyr ➂ Books & Brunch Emcee Andrea Thome, Books & Brunch Co-Chairs JoAnn Barranco and Susann Oakum, Assistance League President Yvonne Mayer ➃ Assistance League members Gopi Ahuja and Bijal Bhuva-Doshi ➄ Assistance League charter members Marilyn Krafthefer and Jan McGivern ➅ Jewelry Raffle Winner Mridu Garg, Michelle Kovach and Amy Malfese from Bella Cosa Jewelers ➆ Guest Gina Bucciarelli and Assistance League member Inga Haveric
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.
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.
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