👋 16 Festivals, Fairs & Expos, Air Show, Grill History & More!

One of America’s most iconic backyard inventions has a local connection.

The Weber kettle grill was created in the early 1950s by George Stephen, a Mount Prospect resident who worked for Weber Brothers Metal Works in nearby Arlington Heights.

At the time, many backyard grills were open brick-style setups that made it hard to control heat, smoke and wind. Stephen took inspiration from the metal buoys made at the shop, cut one in half, added legs, a grate and a vented lid, and created the now-famous covered kettle design.

What started as a simple idea from a Northwest Suburban backyard helped change the way families across the country cook outdoors.

It’s a busy weekend around the Northwest Suburbs, with 16 festivals, fairs and expos happening from Aug. 13th-16th.

From food festivals and summer fairs to art markets, expos and family-friendly community events, there are plenty of ways to get out and enjoy the weekend close to home. (See All Events)

The Chicago Air and Water Show returns to the lakefront Aug. 15-16, with a public rehearsal scheduled for Friday, Aug. 14.

This year’s lineup includes the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and the U.S. Army Golden Knights. The free show runs from 10:30 AM to 3 PM and can be viewed from North Avenue Beach and along the lakefront. (Link)

Flock license plate reader cameras are being used in several Chicago-area suburbs to help police investigate crimes, but the technology is also raising privacy concerns.

NBC Chicago reports the cameras are already in use or referenced in communities including Wheeling, Mount Prospect, Des Plaines, Arlington Heights, Palatine, Park Ridge and others. (Link)

Gov. JB Pritzker signed new bills giving the Illinois Department of Insurance more authority to review homeowners and auto insurance rate hikes.

Supporters say the changes are meant to protect residents from unfair or excessive premium increases, while insurance groups warn the added regulation could affect costs and coverage options. (Link)

• Arlington Heights: On August 3, 2026, the Village Board voiced early support for a proposed $25 million, 60-unit affordable senior housing development presented by POAH and Church of the Incarnation United Methodist at 330 W. Golf Road.

• Buffalo Grove: On August 9, 2026, state transportation officials announced the start of a 3.5-mile road resurfacing project along Dundee Road spanning Buffalo Grove, Wheeling, and Arlington Heights to improve regional roadway conditions.

• Des Plaines: On August 6, 2026, the City selected a Chicago artist for a new public mural on a downtown apartment building while holding a public open house to gather community feedback on the Lee-Oakton commercial corridor.

• Mount Prospect: On August 5, 2026, the Village announced it is evaluating a new request for proposals for the former Chase Bank site at Emerson Street and Busse Avenue to drive downtown commercial redevelopment.

• Niles: On August 4, 2026, Niles Township High School District 219 celebrated two ribbon-cutting ceremonies unveiling $53 million in upgraded facilities and modern additions at Niles West High School and Niles Central High School.

• Palatine: On August 3, 2026, the Palatine Village Council approved a $225,370 contract to renovate the Fire Station 84 training tower to enhance firefighter safety and emergency training capabilities.

• Schaumburg: August is Water Quality Month, and the Village of Schaumburg is reminding residents to help protect local waterways by reducing pollution, using water wisely and keeping storm drains clear. (Link)

• Skokie: On August 3, 2026, the Skokie Village Board advanced a 15% water rate adjustment to fund vital infrastructure updates, flood control systems, and lead pipe replacements.

Arlington Heights Librarian Earns Statewide Honor

A big congratulations to Trixie Dantis of Arlington Heights Memorial Library, who was named Illinois’ Youth Services Librarian of the Year.

It’s a well-deserved recognition for the kind of local work that helps kids, families and young readers feel more connected to their library and community. (Link)

D & Colie's Pizza (Palatine) | Aug 10th | New spot offering all-day breakfast alongside specialty pizzas, calzones, rice bowls, burgers, and pastas.(Link)

The Pepper Pot (Barrington) | Aug 13th | Photo ceremony celebrating the local needlepoint and mahjong shop at Barrington's historic Ice House Mall.(Link)

Bell Family Arts Center (Palatine) | Aug 15th | Little City’s newly renovated arts center offering creative programs, art studios, a gallery, and café.(Link)

River Valley Christian School (Elgin) | Aug 17th | New Christian school serving students and families in the Elgin community.(Link)

Preventative Medicine By Science (Barrington) | Aug 17th | New wellness center focused on science-based preventative medicine and personalized health services.(Link)

This week, we’re highlighting a longtime Wheeling spot that somehow took me nearly 30 years to finally try.

Skippers Restaurant has been serving the community since 1983, and Paul, the owner, is exactly the kind of local business owner you love to meet. My wife and I stopped in last week after driving past it countless times over the years, and I’m honestly not sure what took us so long.

The restaurant has a cool, traditional diner feel, with outdoor seating available and a casual, welcoming atmosphere. We had a great time talking with Paul, and the food was really delicious.

We tried the gyros, Polish Dog and fried mushrooms, and everything hit the spot. The gyros especially might be the best I’ve ever had. Prices were very reasonable too, which makes it even easier to recommend.

All in all, Skippers is one of those classic local places that feels like it has been hiding in plain sight. If you’re in Wheeling or nearby, it’s definitely worth checking out. (Link)

“Someday is not a day of the week.”
- Janet Dailey

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