Community Celebration at The Shops on Elm Place

The upcoming ’10 Years of Smiles’ event marks a special milestone at Gilbert Orthodontics, located at The Shops on Elm Place in Highland Park. Initially planned as a celebration of the practice’s tenth anniversary, Dr. Josh Gilbert, the owner, decided to expand the celebrations by inviting neighboring businesses to join.

A variety of businesses will participate in the End of Summer Party, scheduled for August 26 from 3 to 5:30 p.m. This first-time event is hosted by Gilbert Orthodontics and promises diverse activities and generous giveaways for attendees.

Dr. Gilbert, who took over the practice a decade ago from a retiring doctor, expressed his desire to give back to the community that has supported him. He emphasized the importance of patient comfort and care, stating, “I love being part of the community.” Born and raised in Highland Park, Gilbert highlights his connection to the area.

As one of the event hosts, Gilbert plans to create a lively atmosphere with a DJ for dancing, a bounce house, and face-painting. Guests are invited to visit Gilbert Orthodontics for free digital scans of their teeth, offering insights into potential orthodontic outcomes. Raffle prizes, including teeth-whitening, add to the excitement.

“I wanted to take the opportunity to celebrate this milestone in our community that has embraced me,” Dr. Josh Gilbert said.

The BBQ Pit, a beloved local eatery for 48 years, is eager to contribute mac-and-cheese, pulled pork, and barbecued brisket sandwiches. Owner Gus Karigan described the business’s success as being the “Cheers” of the neighborhood, fostering repeat customers and a familial atmosphere. With a family-owned heritage dating back to 1978, The BBQ Pit stands as a community focal point.

Josh Gordon, owner of The Custom Framer for six years, emphasizes quality in framing, printing, and customer service as key to his business’s success. For the End of Summer Party, his store will offer art specials and children’s activities, including coloring. Gordon appreciates the event, viewing it as a community unifier.

Numerous other businesses are contributing unique offerings to the celebration:

• Joan Barry Hair Designers, celebrating 25 years, provides temporary hair color spray.
• Love’s Yogurt hosts sidewalk chalking, marking 40 years of operation.
• My Sister’s Circus will feature circus games and discounted shopping racks.
• TREVI Longevity & Aesthetics Institute offers free B-12 shots and hydrating snacks.
• Studio Lagree will have class giveaways.
• Eye Magic by Michael Scott introduces the Magnificent Eye Chart for vision testing.
• ABC Design Jewelers, in its fifth year at the location, provides jewelry cleaning and ear piercing.

Anat Borochov of ABC Design Jewelers hosts an Adult After-Party from 6 to 8 p.m. at Gabby & Summer Classics, aiming to bring neighbors together with music, wine, and cheese. Reflecting on her business, she highlights the transparency of in-store work, offering clients a glimpse into jewelry crafting.