Grayslake Celebrates 125th + 1 Anniversary!

You may have seen the banners on Center St., maybe the yard sign, or even the hats, mugs and hoodies. We are talking about the Celebrate 125th Anniversary logo. The design was created by one of our very own Grayslake residents and Graphic Designer Marlon Rodas. “I was flattered when the village asked me to design such an important piece”, said Marlon. Much thought went into creating the logo, every element has a story, such as the train which was incorporated into the design which Marlon said “If you live here, or have ever visited Grayslake you were probably made to enjoy the view a bit longer than you thought you would. But the train is also traveling forward, and in action, symbolizing progress.” Of course the smokestack was also illustrated because of its history here in Grayslake. Who could forget the water tower which is illustrated at the bottom of the design drawing your gaze back to the impressive 125. “ I think the design pays respect to our history while also looking ahead to our bright future here in Grayslake,” said Rodas.

Unfortunately all the festivities the Village of Grayslake had planned were postponed one year, which lead to a tweak in the design. Michelle Poe, Executive Director of the Grayslake Heritage Center & Museum came up with a great idea, which I think worked really well with the original design, said Marlon. Hence the “+1 sticky note” was created for the updated design celebrating the 125th anniversary in 2021.

There is still much to celebrate in Grayslake including the 8 (ish) Beer Festival September 18th held in downtown Grayslake. All of the net proceeds of the festival go to the Grayslake Scholarship Fund.