John R Hedrick
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
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.
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.
Personal and Technology Connections
Balancing Heritage and Technology
This month I’m combining some insights where my personal interests converge with community planning and architecture. I’ve been digging deeper into my ancestral roots, and my continuing interest in the East Coast took me to Newport, RI - a prime example of how to maintain the past we must adapt to modern technology.
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.
Celebrating Holidays Through Public Art
With summer holidays we plunge into a season of public celebration and wide range of emotions. From pride in our nation’s history to reflecting on political challenges, summer holidays evoke powerful sentiments.
"AWE Walks" Do Wonders!
This season to get outdoors and return to travel reminds me of the power of nature to inspire us. I’ve often experienced it personally when walking around town – but especially from memorable moments like this hike in Montana’s Glacier Park.
Time for SCENIC Mustang
Many around town know me as owner of this Mustang convertible. And after remarking about “what year“ (1966), people often ask about the SCENIC antique plate.
Enjoying Local Outdoor Dining
When most people talk about their suburban Downtowns the first topic is usually new restaurants. But professionals who are involved in town planning and economic development know better. Restaurants are the most challenging new businesses for investing, launching and staffing.
Looking Back to Greece for Future Conservation
My visit to Greece provided new insights for Historic conservation.
Public Murals: Painting theTown
Wall murals have been used effectively in historic “Main Street” revitalization efforts for many years. As new urbanism spreads to the suburbs (and more retail areas are struggling to recover) such murals may now be considered to add interest for more conventional shopping areas. This can get complicated.