Z-Hinsdale Magazine
At the Forefront of AI, Rooted in Elmhurst
Professor, entrepreneur, and local dad Birju Shah on technology, teaching, and life in Elmhurst By Julia Mazurek | Photos courtesy of Northwestern University Birju Shah calls Tuesdays his “AI day.” With a few monitors and a list of priorities, Shah uses artificial intelligence tools to tackle everything from business strategy to lecture content to vacation…
Read MoreUnited in Song, Connected in Community
LIFT is Building Community Through Music, Learning, and Connection By Julia Mazurek / Photos courtesy of Ingrid Bonne Photography A conversation about community evolved into something much bigger for Elmhurst residents Bill and Jenny Riddle. Last fall, the couple wondered: How could they bring people together in a meaningful way while also introducing their vision…
Read MoreThe Influence Economy
How social media, creators, and Gen Z behavior are reshaping suburban retail By Hinsdale Magazine Group Staff Not long ago, suburban shopping centers largely followed a familiar retail formula: national brands, department store anchors, and established dining concepts designed to appeal to broad consumer audiences. Today, however, the brands and restaurants gaining momentum with younger…
Read MoreHealing on a Higher Note
How ECPA and Freedom Sings turned trauma into art By Laura Michaud and Melissa G. Wilson The Encore Center for Performing Arts (ECPA) is no stranger to bringing powerhouse talent to DuPage County. From Hamilton’s Miguel Cervantes to rock icon Cathy Richardson, they know how to draw a crowd. But their recent collaboration with Nashville’s…
Read MoreFrom Gift to Legacy
The Power of Endowment By Dave McGowan An endowment is a pool of invested assets intended to generate income to support a not-for-profit organization in perpetuity. It’s an important strategy in diversifying the overall mix of not-for-profit revenue. That said, only nearly 11% of not-for-profits have endowments. Endowments allow not-for-profit organizations to plan for the…
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 MoreWoodland Windows and Doors
Woodland Windows & Doors has spent more than half a century transforming homes across the greater Chicago area with quality, craftsmanship, and trust earned one project at a time. Founded in 1969 by John and Ann Mariotti, the company began in a small storefront and has grown into a respected full-service provider of replacement windows,…
Read MoreStudio41
For homeowners planning a kitchen or bath renovation, the difference between a stressful process and a rewarding one often comes down to guidance. Studio41 has built its reputation around helping clients navigate complex design decisions with clarity, confidence, and an emphasis on long-term livability. With a long-standing presence in the Chicago area, Studio41 serves as…
Read MoreReliable Home Improvement
Few home remodeling companies can point to more than five decades of continuous family leadership. For 58 years, Reliable Home Improvement has remained family-owned and operated, quietly shaping homes throughout the western suburbs. What began as a small family business has grown into one of the region’s most respected remodeling firms, guided by multiple generations…
Read MoreModerne Living
Established in August 2005, Moderne Living was created to bring refined European contemporary design to Chicago homeowners seeking modern sophistication with everyday comfort. From its inception, the company has prioritized curated furnishings and architectural elements defined by clean lines, premium materials, and enduring craftsmanship. Today, Moderne Living delivers comprehensive, high-end design solutions that extend well…
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