Redefining Guest Experiences
The future of modern hotel design In this exclusive interview, Oak Brook Magazine sits down with Komal Patel, CEO of Vinayaka Hospitality. Patel oversees the prominent DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago – Oak Brook and the Chicago Marriott Oak Brook. Here, he shares insights into the meticulous design process, evolving guest expectations, and the art of…
Read MoreMore Reasons to Give
Understanding today’s tax incentives and the lasting impact of charitable generosity BY DAVE MCGOWAN The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, enacted on July 4, 2025, includes a charitable deduction for cash gifts worth up to $1,000 for single filers or $2,000 for married couples filing jointly. Starting in 2026, the new tax break is available…
Read MoreFirst Audience
How music begins at home and grows into a lifelong passion BY LAURA MICHAUD AND MELISSA G. WILSON The Living Room Debut Before there are stages, spotlights, or packed auditoriums, there is almost always a living room. Or a kitchen. Or the back seat of a car. For many performers, the first audience is family—people…
Read MoreMahjong Madness
A captivating game, equal parts strategy and social, is sweeping its way through the suburbs BY VALERIE HARDY Step back, bridge, and bunco. There’s a new game in town—mahjong—and it’s spreading like wildfire across the western suburbs and throughout the nation. The History of the Game Many Americans only recently learned mahjong, but the game…
Read MoreThe Avery Coonley School
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…
Read MoreDowners Grove Christian School
Enthusiasm and encouragement — two words that capture the energy and explain the academic success of Downers Grove Christian School. For over 55 years, DGCS has helped teach and develop children from Pre-School thru 8th grade. Each day, staff and teachers work with students and parents to “raise up” positive role models – kind, educated,…
Read MoreIC Catholic Prep
Founded in 1936, IC Catholic Prep (ICCP) is a Catholic, college-preparatory high school rooted in academic excellence and spiritual formation. Celebrating 90-years of excellence and guided by the mission to Learn, Lead, and Serve, ICCP prepares young men and women to lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose while making a meaningful impact in their communities.…
Read MoreImmaculate Conception Grade School
For more than 125 years, Immaculate Conception Grade School (ICGS) has been a cornerstone of the Elmhurst community. ICGS has educated thousands of students, with many second-, third-, and even fourth-generation alumni. While the school has grown and evolved over the years, its commitment to faith, family, and academic excellence has remained steadfast. ICGS offers…
Read MoreIvy League Potential
With acceptance rates at leading universities averaging between 5-10%, many students are looking for professional guidance to navigate the college application process. Since 2011, Ivy League Potential has been partnering with high schools and families to help students gain admission to a broad range of institutions, including Ivy League schools, small liberal arts colleges, public…
Read MoreLevel Up Academy Prep School
Long before Level Up Academy became a reality, co-founders Samantha Lindenmeyer and Kerry McLaurin had already made a meaningful impact in the community. Through their involvement in local schools as parents—and their dedication to providing hands-on guidance, academic support, and encouragement—they became trusted resources for children who needed individualized attention. Through small-group and private tutoring,…
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