John R Hedrick

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John R. Hedrick is an attorney and consultant who currently focuses on community and urban design issues.  He is now also sharing his experience and related interests. Contact at: mdrn.consulting@me.com

Fall Colors & Favorite Tunes
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Fall Colors & Favorite Tunes

Returning from a visit to the grand-twins in New York City, I find myself still seeing Fall color from Central Park. That city in autumn is a unique experience that recalls both personal memories and cultural icons. The tree lined walks remind me of classic images and songs, like the cover photos from When Harry Met Sally—a special combination of sentiment and nostalgia. This season, I found more than ever, with a bittersweet appreciation for the fleeting moments.

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Transforming Local Spaces - Wilmette, IL
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Transforming Local Spaces - Wilmette, IL

In September my focus naturally shifts back to places where beauty and community intersect. One great  example is Wilmette on the North Shore.  And It’s become a personal and professional benchmark for my hometown  Glenview’s own Downtown revitalization efforts. Recently, I had the chance to revisit this progress through a walking tour sponsored by my DePaul-Municipal Design Network organization (MDRN), offering insights into Wilmette’s downtown transformation of spaces.

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Enjoying August  - Cafe Culture
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Enjoying August - Cafe Culture

The big news in Glenview this month is the long-anticipated approval of two significant Downtown restaurant projects by the Village Board. My personal annual calendar focuses on social and community activities for the peak of summer. And this often includes outdoor dining and events.

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Health and Fitness Month
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Health and Fitness Month

Café Culture and Community in Glenview

The big news in Glenview is long-anticipated approval of two significant downtown restaurant projects by the Village Board. This is a significant step forward after years of redevelopment planning, bringing excitement and new energy to the Downtown. And particularly timely as it reminds me of the many beautiful areas we visit on our trips to Connecticut. The historic and tourist areas of the East Coast, like the charming town of New Canaan. This post highlights local, personal, and community planning aspects.

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My “Circles” Book on TV
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My “Circles” Book on TV

My “Circles” Book on TV

I recently had the chance to discuss my book, "The Circles: An Architectural Heritage," on Glenview Television with host Yvonne Wolf. This was a great opportunity to explore a challenging balance of neighborhood design and architectural conservation. And in the process touch on Downtown revitalization, “Blocktoberfests” and related suburban design issues.

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From Florida Shores to Suburban Stores- Finding Beauty!
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From Florida Shores to Suburban Stores- Finding Beauty!

“Some people look for a beautiful place; Others make a place beautiful” - Hazrat Inayat Khan

This quote resonated with me after returning from my recent trip from the coast of Florida to the familiar streets of suburban Chicago. I find it fascinating how our surroundings influence us and, more importantly, how we have the power to influence our places in return. Here’s my latest observations …

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Season’s Best Shows
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Season’s Best Shows

Movies to Orchids - and TV gig

This time of year my attention turns to “showtime,” from Oscar movies to the annual indoor show at the Chicago Botanic Garden. There's something about this transitional season to share entertainment interests - and even my personal foray into local TV.

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