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.
Bringing Visibility to Vincibility
In her documentary film, “Vincible” Kayla Redig reveals the unique trials faced by young adult cancer patients and survivors By Valerie Hardy When Kayla... Read more.
In Bed By Ten: A new early-night show offers Chicago-quality comedy that is relatable and accessible to suburban audiences
BY VALERIE HARDY | PHOTOS BY MADELINE CRAIG Looking for some local laughs but not a night owl? In Bed By Ten, a newcomer to the suburban live comedy scene, is the... Read more.
A new documentary captures the story of the Tivoli Theatre and the family behind the scenes
BY VALERIE HARDY | Photos by Victor Hilitski For many attending the sold-out premiere of the documentary film “History Happens Here: The Tivoli Theatre” on May... 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.
Ghostlight Educational Theatre Collective continues to give back to the community
Two Years and Counting BY VALERIE HARDY | Photos by CM Stage Photography Drive through Downers Grove and surrounding suburbs and you will see the hallmark yellow,... Read more.
All Heart: District 58 teacher Jon Belonio spreads his love of art
By Valerie Hardy Around Downers Grove, Jon Belonio is somewhat of a celebrity, especially among the 12 and under crowd. Wherever he goes in town, Mr. Belonio (as... Read more.
Grand Finale: Downers Grove North band director Brayer Teague will leave a lasting legacy when he retires
BY VALERIE HARDY | Photos courtesy of Brayer Teague For District 99 students, school will soon be out for the summer, but for Downers Grove North High School’s... 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.
The Helpful Hardware Folks
Though changes abound within the Ace Hardware Corporation, one thing has remained the same for nearly a century: service to customers and community BY VALERIE HARDY... Read more.
A Garden-variety Group: The Garden Club of Downers Grove is anything but ordinary
BY VALERIE HARDY | Photos by Carolina Menapace For nearly a century, The Garden Club of Downers Grove has been growing plants – and a community of gardeners. Established... Read more.