👋 18 Festivals & Fairs, Famous Faces, Feel Good Story & This Week's Events

Famous Faces with Northwest Suburban Roots

You might be surprised by how many well-known names have ties to our corner of Chicagoland.

From movie stars and comedians to authors, musicians and public figures, we rounded up famous people who were born, raised or spent important years in the Northwest Suburbs. Here’s a look at some familiar faces with local roots. (Link)

A controversial data center proposal in Hoffman Estates has been withdrawn after weeks of opposition from nearby residents.

The project would have involved rezoning about 185 acres near Higgins Road and Route 59, but neighbors raised concerns about traffic, noise, light pollution, air quality and the lack of a detailed plan. (Link)

Arlington Heights’ Sounds of Summer concert series is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, marking a quarter century of live music in downtown Harmony Park.

The series began in 2000 with a Saint Viator jazz band performance and has grown into a beloved summer tradition that still draws big crowds to downtown Arlington Heights. (Link)

The twice-a-year clock change debate is back in the spotlight, as Congress could soon vote on the Sunshine Protection Act.

The bill would make daylight saving time permanent across the U.S., ending the spring and fall clock changes, though sleep experts remain divided over whether permanent daylight saving time or standard time is better. (Link)

Air quality alerts are in effect through Tuesday evening across much of the Chicago area, including Cook, Lake, McHenry, Kane and DuPage counties.

Officials warned that ozone or particle pollution could reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups, including active children, older adults and people with asthma or other respiratory conditions. (Link)

A group of former Westgate Elementary students recently reunited with their beloved fourth-grade teacher, Karen Streckert, nearly 60 years after she taught them in Arlington Heights.

Her impact clearly lasted a lifetime, with former students traveling from across the country to thank her for the confidence, creativity and care she brought into their classroom. (Full Story)

• Arlington Heights: The Bears’ digital billboard at the former Arlington International Racecourse property will stay up for another year after the village board approved an extension. (Link)

• Arlington Heights: The Arlington Heights Art Guild’s “A Walk in the Park” Art Fair returns Sunday, August 30 at North School Park with 90+ artists, live music, food trucks and free parking. (Link)

• Des Plaines: The next Des Plaines Food Truck Round Up is Tuesday, July 21 from 5 to 8 PM at Metropolitan Square, featuring food trucks, yard games, artisans and live music. (Link)

• Elgin: Metra will close North McLean Boulevard south of Big Timber Road from July 15 to 23 for railroad track maintenance. Drivers should use posted detours.

• Elk Grove Village: Elk Grove Village turns 70 on July 17 and is celebrating with community events, service projects, concerts, Foreigner and fireworks. (Link)

• Palatine: Palatine Police will host its second annual National Night Out on August 5, a free family-friendly event focused on community safety and connection. (Link)

• Rolling Meadows: Community Church of Rolling Meadows is hosting Cornfest on Saturday, August 1 at 11 AM, a local summer tradition to keep on the calendar. (Link)

• Schaumburg: A free Schaumburg anniversary exhibit is now open at the Schaumburg Township District Library, featuring historic photos, artifacts and community stories through Sept. 30. (Link)

• Wheeling: Village trustees approved a Clearwave Fiber agreement to expand underground high-speed internet access for Wheeling residents and businesses.

Lou Malnati's (Buffalo Grove) | July 14 | Reopening with a new look and new patio. (Link)

Melted Mane (Barrington) | July 14 | Modern hair salon offering expert styling services. (Link)

Forged Golf Club (Arlington Heights) | July 15 | Private indoor golf club with premium simulators. (Link)

Discovery Village Hoffman Estates | July 16 | Senior living community offering personalized care and amenities. (Link)

America’s Gym (Wheeling) | July 18 | New 24/7 fitness center with modern equipment. (Link) 

Reader Favorite Restaurant Winner: Pilot Pete’s

Last week, we asked our readers to share their favorite local restaurant, and the votes are in!

The winner is Pilot Pete’s, Schaumburg’s aviation-themed eatery known for its fun atmosphere, local charm and loyal fan base.

Thanks to everyone who voted, we’ll keep spotlighting more local favorites in future issues!

"Be so happy that when others look at you, they become happy too."
- Yogi Bhajan

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