Author: Valerie Hardy
Author
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View all postsValerie Hardy is a contributing editor and writer for Hinsdale Magazine Group, covering stories across Hinsdale Magazine, Downers Grove Magazine, Oak Brook Magazine, and Elmhurst Magazine. Her work ranges from community features and human-interest profiles to health and lifestyle reporting, always spotlighting the people, organizations, and ideas that bring the western suburbs to life.
Dr. Rachael Mahmood finishes her term as Illinois Teacher of the Year
BY VALERIE HARDY Dr. Rachael Mahmood grew up in Downers Grove with parents who were both physicians at Good Samaritan Hospital. “Being the child of two doctors,... Read more.
Downers Grove South freshman gets promoted to Eagle Scout
BY VALERIE HARDY When 15-year-old Millan Ananth set his sights on becoming an Eagle Scout, the highest rank within the Scouting America organization (formerly Boy... Read more.
Modern Medicine
From data to diagnosis, AI is augmenting medical professionals’ training and practice by VALERIE HARDY Medical training programs and practices in Illinois are... Read more.
DuPage County nonprofit celebrates 35 years of local and global service
By Valerie Hardy Kay McKeen of Wheaton has been proudly “talking trash” for over three decades. Founder and executive director of SCARCE – a nonprofit... Read more.
Oak Brook Park District employee uses technical talents to create a luminescent winter wonderland
By Valerie Hardy Thanks to Robert Pechous’ design and animation skills, Oak Brook is about to get merrier – and a watt brighter – this holiday season.... Read more.
What’s Brewing
Local Oktoberfest celebrations have fun for the whole family on tap this fall When September hits, Oktoberfest isn’t far behind. The famed fall festival... Read more.
Links & Drinks – plus post-round cuisine
BY VALERIE HARDY You don’t have to join a country club to enjoy a round of golf on a beautifully manicured course followed by beverages and bites at a quality... Read more.
Food & Wine: The Perfect Pair
BY VALERIE HARDY Spring is in the air, and it is time to shift from comfort foods to lighter fare. Give this guide a glance to find the best fork + cork combos.... Read more.
Rich Support
Giant Steps and the Canopy Adult Day Program provide services for individuals with autism spectrum disorder By Valerie Hardy Based in Lisle, Giant Steps is a therapeutic... Read more.
The Skinny on Skiing Local
By Valerie Hardy When winter weather arrives, many Midwesterners head south in search of some sun. A key exception, however, is the portion of the population that... Read more.