This week's Patch Portraits also feature Deerfield's nearby Wright-inspired home and the powerful duo behind Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry.

George Esho started fighting at the age of thirteen as a "way to kill time."

In the shadow of his older brother, Esho began taking classes at a martial arts center near his home in Skokie.

Earlier: Check out all the Patch Portrait archives.

"I fell in love with it and since that point on I've been involved in it," said Esho, as he prepped for his daily workout at a boxing gym in Evanston.

Before long Esho began fighting as an amateur boxer. In 2002 Esho competed and won Chicago's Golden Gloves boxing tournament.

Today, outside of his 9-to-5 job, Esho pursues boxing professionally and teaches young fighters the skills he has picked up in his years in the ring.

"I can't explain what kind of feeling I get when I win," said Esho. "I love it because it makes me feel good about myself inside."