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Archive for the ‘Education’ Category

Richardson Farm’s 28-acre corn maze opens Sept. 12 with ‘America 250’ theme

Posted in Education, Entertainment, Topics Of Interest on September 7, 2026| Leave a Comment »

By Cynthia Wolf

With new amenities, expanded play areas and all of the twists and turns to explore in 9.7 miles of tremendous trail, the Richardson “World’s Largest” Corn Maze and Adventure Farm begins greeting visitors Saturday, Sept. 12.

Several points of entry and exit exist for those excited about tackling the maze, which this year features signers of the Declaration of Independence, a Betsy Ross flag, an American Eagle and more.

“I’m excited for our farm to display a fantastic maze celebrating America250,” said Ryan Richardson, who operates the farm along with his wife, Kristen, his father, George, George’s wife, Wendy, George’s brother, Robert, and Robert’s wife, Carol. “It’s a great time to appreciate the country and the freedoms we all share.”

While the 28-acre corn maze in Spring Grove is a giant draw for the roughly 100,000 visitors who arrive annually at 909 English Prairie Road, other points of interest also beckon.

Here you’ll find adorable pig races, giant slides, pedal karts, huge jumping pillows, concession barns, a 50-foot-tall observation tower, zip line, an antique carousel, train rides, wagon rides, a small petting zoo, pumpkins and mums for sale, a plentifully stocked gift barn with modern restrooms, a wine bar, homemade fudge and freshly baked doughnuts, craft beer at the Barrel House, rentable campfire sites, and, when in bloom, a vast field of sunflowers where more trails can be trekked.

Reconstruction of an 1876-era octagon barn is well under way. And, new last year, a low ropes course activity area for children is now expanded to include more climbing fun.

“We have made a number of improvements across the grounds for the season, including adding a fourth jumpy pillow for all to enjoy, improved kids’ play areas and a refreshed menu in the concession barn,” Ryan Richardson said. “We look forward to welcoming guests to our farm, and helping them create meaningful memories.”

Wendy Richardson noted that the Barrel House — featuring four craft varieties from 9th Hour Brewing — has all-new windows and garage-style, rising glass doors to allow the space to be open-air in the fall weather. More fall-weather fun is available to anyone interested in renting one of the farm’s numerous campfire sites, which range from $130 for a one-table site to $290 for a large site with five picnic tables.

“We have 100 picnic area/campfire sites that we rent for four-hour periods any day that we’re open, and they are selling like crazy this year,” she said, noting that many renters bring folding chairs and even twinkle lights for some added nighttime ambiance. “It’s a nice meeting place for family reunions, neighborhood gatherings, church groups … sort of a home base for breaks between roaming the farm.”

“They can bring their own little grill or cook s’mores and hot dogs right over the campfire,” George Richardson added. “We provide the firewood.”

To reserve a campfire site, visit richardsonfarm.com and click on “Groups & Rentals.”

Richardson Farm is a dog-friendly venue; well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome. September hours are 3 to 11 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 9 p.m. Sundays. October hours will be 3 to 9 p.m. Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and noon to 9 p.m. Sundays. The farm will be open through Nov. 1.

Parking is free. Admission ranges from $22 for children ages 4 to 12 in September to $32 for adults visiting on October weekends. Find details and buy tickets in advance at richardsonfarm.com. Tickets also are available at the gate.

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Barrington parents ask District 220 to reduce students’ screen time

Posted in 220, AI, Board of Education, Daily Herald, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Education, Elections, School Districts, What the Ficke (Bradford)? on September 3, 2026| Leave a Comment »

A group of parents in “Barrington Area Unit School District 220” are asking district officials to reduce the reliance on technology in classrooms and more closely monitor students’ screan time.

By Steve Zalusky | Daily Herald

More than 1,200 parents, educators and community members have signed a petition calling on Barrington Area Unit School District 220 to reduce students’ screen time and access to technological devices.

“Technology can absolutely be a valuable educational tool,” Jenna Bennett, one of the parents involved in the effort, said in a statement. “But a tool should be used purposefully — not become the default.”

The parents are asking the district to demonstrate how and why technology is being used, establish appropriate guardrails, and ensure educators’ decisions are supported by research and data.

District 220 Superintendent Craig Winkelman said educators already are addressing some of the concerns, including with a policy change this year that keeps kindergarten and first-grade students from taking school-issued iPads home, unless teachers require it for an assignment.

“We used to have a stance that all of our devices went home as the standard, and we have changed that,” Winkelman said.

Petition signers say they want to district to go further, by keeping all elementary students’ devices at school whenever possible and creating screen-free lunch environments in middle schools.

Report continues here.

Editorial note: The petition the report refers to can be found here.

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Lake County Forest Preserves September Newsletter

Posted in Education, Entertainment, Lake County Forest Preserve District, Property Taxes on September 2, 2026| Leave a Comment »

In this issue:

Click here for tickets and more activities this month.

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CUSD 220 Board of Education budget public hearing and meeting Tuesday

Posted in 220, Agendas, Barrington Education Association, Board of Education, Deception, District 220 referendum, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), E-bikes, Education, Elections, Ethics, Illinois Federation of Teachers, Illinois State Board of Elections, Intergovernmental agreements (IGA), Look For The Union Label, Politics, Property Taxes, Public Hearing, Public Safety, Real Estate, School Districts, Snowflake Effect, South Barrington, Taxes, Topics Of Interest, Unions, Video Streaming, What the Ficke (Bradford)? on August 31, 2026| Leave a Comment »

The District 220 Board of Education meets tomorrow evening at 6:00 PM at the District Administration Center, 515 W. Main Street. Items on their agenda include:

A copy of the agenda can be viewed here. The meeting will be live streamed on the district YouTube channel.

Related: “CUSD 220 Tentative Fiscal 2026/27 Budget Public Hearing September 1st,” “District 220 board members violated campaign policies, investigation finds,” “Proposed Policy Change Would Strip Anonymous Formal Grievances in Barrington District 220,” “Reminder: CUSD 220 Board of Education meeting tonight,” “CUSD 220 Board delivers second (slappier) slap on the wrist to member Erin Chan Ding,” “CUSD 220 Board of Education public comments we applaud,” “Special District 220 Board of Education meeting Monday,” “Over $100,000 in Special Interest Funding gifted to 220 Board member’s campaign in failed bid for State Rep job,” “New Evidence of Chan Ding’s Policy Violations and Conflicts of Interest,” “The D220 Board of Ed gets another ‘F’ in accountability & transparency,” “The Real Issue in Barrington 220 Isn’t Parking or Levies — It’s Leadership Culture,” “BOARD OF ED VOTES, MEMBER CHAN DING MADE FLAGRANT POLICY VIOLATIONS – Part 2,” “BOARD OF ED VOTES, MEMBER CHAN DING MADE FLAGRANT POLICY VIOLATIONS,” “District 220’s Lack of Transparency (Updated),” “District 220’s Lack of Transparency” and “Change.org Petition: ‘For the Resignation of Erin Chan Ding ~ D220 Resources are Not for Political Campaigns’”

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The Stunning Rise of the Democratic Socialists of America

Posted in 220, Barrington Area Library, Barrington Education Association, Board of Education, DARCHED, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Economy, Education, Elections, Ethics, Fools and their money, Illinois Federation of Teachers, Immigration, League of Women Voters, News Media, Politics, Pritzker’s Rules of Order, Property Taxes, Public Safety, School Districts, Taxes, The New Normal?, The New York Times, Unions, What the Ficke (Bradford)? on August 28, 2026| Leave a Comment »

The Daily | The New York Times

This summer, the Democratic Socialists of America have mounted their biggest and most successful attempt yet to redefine the Democratic Party. They have defeated its candidates in primary after primary from coast to coast.

As its electoral success grows, the organization is confronting big, unresolved questions about what it stands for and what level of compromise is required to become a lasting political force.

Charles Homans, who talked to more than 30 D.S.A. candidates, organizers, members and volunteers across the countries, discusses the rise and limitations of the D.S.A.

Guest: Charles Homans writes about national politics for The New York Times and The Times Magazine.

The link to the podcast can be found here.

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The Nest Schools to open new East Dundee location

Posted in Education on August 25, 2026| Leave a Comment »

By Brittany Madonna, The Nest Schools

The Nest Schools recently announced plans to open a new school at 850 E. Main St. in East Dundee this fall. The location will mark The Nest Schools’ fourth school in the Chicago area, joining locations in Barrington, Crystal Lake and Vernon Hills.

The former childcare center will undergo renovations to the interior of the building along with upgrades to its outdoor play spaces. The Nest Schools of East Dundee will serve approximately 125 children, ages 6 weeks through pre-kindergarten, and is expected to create 30 jobs in the community.

“We’re excited to welcome East Dundee families to The Nest Schools,” said Jessica VanHoose, CEO of The Nest Schools. “Everything we do is grounded in creating meaningful experiences for children and supporting the families who count on us every day. We look forward to bringing that commitment to East Dundee and building strong connections within the community.”

The East Dundee school will offer The Nest Schools’ Nest Play Curriculum, which blends purposeful play with kindergarten readiness, along with enrichment programs focused on wellness, art, music, and practical life skills, all included as part of every child’s experience.

Pre-enrollment is now open for The Nest Schools of East Dundee. Families who enroll as Founding Families and begin care within 30 days of the school’s opening will receive 10% off tuition for their first year.

The school is expected to open in fall 2026. Families interested in learning more, pre-enrolling, or receiving updates can visit thenestschool.com/locations/east-dundee/.

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Art in Nature Festival at Crabtree Nature Center next Sunday

Posted in Crabtree Nature Center, Education, Entertainment, FPDCC on August 23, 2026| Leave a Comment »

Join us at Crabtree Nature Center for our largest annual Art in Nature Festival on August 30th from 11am to 3pm!

  • African Drumming Workshop at 11:30am
  • Xochitl-Quetzal Aztec Dance will be performing at 1pm.
  • Create your own masterpiece using clay, watercolors, collage and more!

Learn about resources from our partners the Barrington Area Library , Trickster Cultural Center, University of Illinois-Extension Master Naturalists and Gardeners, and many others.

Art and honey for sale. Julio’s Tacos and Kona Ice will be available for purchase. This event is FREE!

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Things to do Aug. 14-20: Little Bear Ribfest, Hampshire Coon Creek Country Days and more

Posted in Education, Entertainment on August 13, 2026| Leave a Comment »

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Friday, Aug. 14

69th annual Sycamore Steam Show & Threshing Bee: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Aug. 14-16, at the Taylor Marshall Farm, 27707 Lukens Road, off Plank Road, Sycamore. Hosted by the Northern Illinois Steam Power Club. All of the engines whistle at noon. Parade at 1:30 p.m. daily. See steam engines, gas engines, antique car display, World War II display, lawn and garden tractor display, windmills, and demos on threshing/baling, corn shelling and flour mills. Also, fresh produce, flea market, FFA zoo, live music and Fay’s BBQ. $10, free for kids younger than 12. sycamoresteamshow.com.

48th Mid-America Bonsai Exhibition: Noon to 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 15-16, at Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Sponsored by the Midwest Bonsai Society, one of the largest regional shows in the nation featuring over 80 world-class trees from across the Midwest and beyond. Thirty vendors selling trees, tools, pots, stands, scrolls, soil/fertilizers, etc. Workshops, demonstrations, bonsai tour, tree raffle and society gear available. Included in general admission. midwestbonsai.org.

Cary Children’s Entertainment: Noon Friday, Aug. 14, at Lions Park Rotary Bandshell, 1200 Silver Lake Road, Cary. Wendy and DB will perform. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Free. carypark.com

The International Gem & Jewelry Show: Noon to 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, at the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel and Convention Center, 1551 Thoreau Drive North, Schaumburg. Vendors of gems, jewelry, jewelry making equipment, precious metals, imports and more. Children under 9 not permitted. $6 online, $8 at the door. intergem.com

Lake Zurich Farmers Market: 3-7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14, at Henry J. Paulus Park, 200 S. Rand Road, Lake Zurich. Fresh produce, baked goods, sauces, spices, honey, cheese, eggs, meats and more. With live music, pop-up events, kids’ activities and more. Free. lakezurich.org/366/Farmers-Market.

Kurt Russell is one of the scheduled celebrity guests at Fan Expo Chicago, Friday through Sunday, Aug. 14-16, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont. (Scott A Garfitt/AP)

Fan Expo Chicago: 4-9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. Comic and pop culture convention featuring celebrity guests, cosplay, comics, gaming, anime, events, vendors and more. Scheduled guests include Kurt Russell, Mel Gibson, Jared Padalecki, Elijah Wood, Karl Urban, Mr. T, John Carpenter, Miranda Otto and more. Tickets start at $41 per day, $89 for three days. fanexpohq.com/fanexpochicago

West Dundee French Market: 4-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14, at The Pump House, 98 Oregon Ave., West Dundee. Fresh produce, honey, greens, soaps, breads, cheeses, flowers, artwork, wearables and more. wdundee.org.

The Little Bear Ribfest in Vernon Hills offers ribs and live music Friday and Saturday, Aug. 14-15, in the Century Park Arboretum. (John Starks/Daily Herald)

Little Bear Ribfest: 5-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Aug. 14-15, in the Century Park Arboretum, 1001 Lakeview Parkway, Vernon Hills. Local rib vendors, beer, wine and bourbon-tasting. Music lineup: Friday: Kickin’ It with Carol Line Dancing at 5 p.m., McKenzie O’Brien Band at 7 p.m. and Vegas McGraw at 9 p.m.; Saturday: A Patch of Blues at 5 p.m.; Stefan Hillesheim at 7 p.m.; and The Grady Experience at 9 p.m. $6, free for kids 5 and younger; $75 VIP experience includes all-you-can-eat rib buffet from 6-9 p.m. Saturday (must be purchased in advance). vhparkdistrict.org/little-bear-ribfest.

FRIDAYS ROCK! & Roll in Meadows: 6-10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14, in Kimball Hill Park, 3286 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. Performances include No Limit Sound at 6 p.m. and Motown Nation at 8 p.m. Free. cityrm.org

Hampshire Coon Creek Country Days runs Friday through Sunday, Aug. 14-16, on State Street in downtown Hampshire. (Paul Valade/Daily Herald)

Hampshire Coon Creek Country Days: 6 p.m. to midnight Friday, Aug. 14; 1 p.m. to midnight Saturday, Aug. 15; and 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, on State Street in downtown Hampshire. Nightly entertainment, carnival, beer garden, food vendors, craft show and more. Touch-A-Truck from 1-3 p.m. Saturday. On Sunday, parade at noon along State Street, free corn roast starting at 1 p.m. and ice cream-eating contest at 3 p.m. Kids’ activities throughout the weekend. Music lineup: Friday: Hillbilly Rockstarz at 6:30 p.m. and Semple at 9:30 p.m.; Saturday: Trending Time at 1:30 p.m., Back Country Roads at 5:30 p.m. and Modern Day Romeos after the 9:15 p.m. fireworks; and Sunday: Whiskey Romance Band at 1:30 p.m. Free. hcccd.com.

Carpentersville Movies in the Park: 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14, at Carpenter Park, 275 Maple Ave., Carpentersville. A rotating lineup of local food vendors and a movie starting at dusk. Free popcorn, snow cones and cotton candy from the Carpentersville Clergy Commission. Free. cville.org. cville.org/calendar.aspx.

Saturday, Aug. 15

Dundee Depot Market: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, at The Depot, 319 N. River St., East Dundee. Vintage finds, handmade goods, bakery goods and locally crafted products. Free. eastdundee.net

Shakespeare on the Grass: 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, at the downtown gazebo, 201-261 S. Walnut St., Itasca. Overshadowed Theatrical Productions in partnership with the village of Itasca presents Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Food trucks on site. Free with registration: overshadowed.org.

Printer’s Row Art Fest: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 15-16, at Necessary & Sufficient Coffee — Printers Row, 728 S. Dearborn St., Chicago. 95 juried artists from across the country. Free. amdurproductions.com/printers-row-art-fest-new.

Wine and Art Walk: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 15-16, along Meadow Lake Trail at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. Juried art show features photography, woodturning, jewelry, painting, ceramics, fused glass, fiber arts, and more artworks created by about 70 artists in the Midwest and beyond. Included with Arboretum general admission. mortonarb.org.

BACC Family Fest: Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, in Citizens Park, 511 Lake Zurich Road, Barrington. Kids’ activities, giveaways, magic show, music, food, entertainment and more. Free. barringtonchamber.com.

“I Saw It at Lords Park Zoo — Animals From the Zoo’s Early Years”: 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, at Lords Park Zoo, 325 Hiawatha Drive, Elgin. Lords Park Zoo, opened in 1895, was once home to bears, snakes and even a lion. Visit the modern Tefft Farm Zoo and make crafts to remember past zoo residents. Elgin Area Historical Society program for kids 3-8. elginil.gov

Morton Arboretum walking play: 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 15-16, starting at Thornhill Shelter at Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” runs approximately 90 minutes and includes a 1.5-mile walk, with no intermission. Suitable for all ages, with some crass humor and romantic situations. $27 for 18 and older, $17 for kids 2-17. mortonarb.org

Celebrate the career of Olivia Newton-John with “Always Olivia” with Annie Aiello Saturday, Aug. 15, at the Raue Center For The Arts in Crystal Lake. (Raue Center For The Arts)

Always Olivia: 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, at the Raue Center For The Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. Olivia Newton-John tribute starring Annie Aiello featuring opening act Jack Aiello. $31.50-$65. rauecenter.org

Summer Breeze Concert Series: 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. 16 Candles will perform. Free. parkfun.com.

Sunday, Aug. 16

Crystal Lake Farmers Market+ At The Dole: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, on the front lawn of the Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Food vendors, live music, kids’ activities, beverages, food trucks and more. farmersmarketatthedole.org.

Honey Fest: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, at Heritage Farm at Spring Valley, 201 S. Plum Grove Road, Schaumburg. Honey tastings, historic demonstrations, interactive displays and bee-inspired crafts. Honey-themed treats, beeswax crafts and beverages for purchase. Free. parkfun.com.

Monarch Fair: 12:30-4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, at the Main Beach Pavilion, 300 Lakeshore Drive, Crystal Lake. Learn about monarchs, with butterfly and pollinator plants information, a monarch art show, science and art activities, and information from 16 exhibitors and more. A Community Band Showcase at 1 p.m. Free. hackmatacknwr.org

Elgin’s Shakespeare in the Park: 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, at the Lords Park picnic shelter, 100 Oakwood Blvd., and 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22, at Wing Park band shell, 1010 Wing St., Elgin. Goodly Creatures Theatre’s annual production features the comedy “As You Like It.” Bring chairs, blankets and snacks. Rain dates: 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23, at Wing Park. Free. goodlycreatures.com.

Monday, Aug. 17

Plein Air St. Charles: Monday to Sunday, Aug. 17-23. St. Charles Arts Council’s weeklong event welcomes 55 artists from across the U.S. who will set up outside, all around town, to paint picturesque scenes of St. Charles. There also will be activities for the public to participate in, including a plein air demonstration, a “Quick Paint” competition, Mindful Creativity for area children, and a Writers Event. Free. stcharlesil.gov.

Tuesday, Aug. 18

Wauconda Cruise Nights: 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 18, at Route 176 and West Mill Street, Wauconda. Cars on display and family-friendly activities. Free. waucondacruisenight.com.

Wednesday, Aug. 19

Arbor Evenings: 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19, at the Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. Live music on Frost Hill. Opens at 5:15 p.m. The Throwbacks will perform. Cocktails, wine, beer, water and other beverages, along with food truck options, will be available for purchase. $15 for 13 and older; $5 for kids 4-12, and free for kids 3 and younger. Tickets: mortonarb.org.

Car Fun on 21: 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19, on Church and Cook streets, Libertyville. Classic car show featuring cars, trucks and motorcycles 25 years and older, music and food. Free. mainstreetlibertyville.org.

Bensenville Music in the Park: 7:30-9:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19, at Village Hall Lawn, 12 S. Center St., Bensenville. The Boy Band Night will perform. Classic car cruise night begins at 6 p.m. weekly at Green and Center streets. Free. bensenville.il.us.

Thursday, Aug. 20

Barrington Thursday Night Out: 5-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, at the BMO Lot, 210 W. Station St., Barrington. Local vendors, classic cars, live music, family activities and more. Free. barrington-il.gov/events/thursday-night-out

Geneva Classic Car Show: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, around the historic Kane County Courthouse, off Fourth and James streets, Geneva. Music, food, and vote for your favorite make and model. To display your vehicle, arrive after 4:30 p.m. and find a spot in the lot behind the courthouse. Free. genevachamber.com/events/classic-car-show.

Thursday Nights Live: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, at Wheeling Town Center, 351 W. Dundee Road, Wheeling. Free concerts in the plaza with food and beverage options from local restaurants. Funk Tonic will perform. Free. thewheelingtowncenter.com/events.

Sounds of Summer Concert Series: 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, at Harmony Park, 7 S. Vail Ave., Arlington Heights. The Disco Circus will perform. Free. vah.com/explore/sounds_of_summer_concerts.php.

Summer Sounds on the Green Concert Series: 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, Heartache Tonight will perform. Food and beverages for sale. Free. hoffmanestatesarts.com/summer-concert-series

Ongoing

Dinos! at Brookfield Zoo Chicago: 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Oct. 25 at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. See 35 life-sized dinosaurs and more. $20.95-$29.95 and free for kids 2 and younger. brookfieldzoo.org/events

Bristol Renaissance Faire: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day through Sept. 7 at the Bristol Renaissance Faire, 12550 120th Ave., Kenosha, Wisconsin. 16th-century games, rides, arts, crafts, food, music, characters and more. $48, $45 for 62 and older and military with ID, $23 for kids 5-12, and free for kids 4 and younger. renfair.com/bristol.

Find much more here.

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Barrington Family Fest aims to bring community together

Posted in Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce, Education, Entertainment on August 10, 2026| Leave a Comment »

By Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce

The public is invited to enjoy a day of outdoor fun, giveaways, music, and more at the Barrington Area Family Fest from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, at Citizens Park, 511 N. Lake Zurich Road in Barrington. Admission and parking are free. The community event is hosted by the Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce.

“Family Fest brings the community together in a fun and meaningful way,” said BACC president and CEO Suzanne Corr. “It’s the perfect way for residents to explore the variety of resources, businesses and organizations that make Barrington a great place to live.”

More than 50 vendor booths will showcase local businesses and community organizations, offering attendees the chance to explore products, services and resources. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase, and attendees can enjoy kids’ activities, giveaways, music, and interactive experiences for all ages.

The event will feature a full lineup of activities, including SOUL Harbour Ranch Mini Horses from noon to 1 p.m., face painting from noon to 3:30 p.m., and a Skyward Fencing demonstration from 12:30-1 p.m. There will be a performance by the Barrington Children’s Choir from 1-1:30 p.m., followed by visits with SOUL Harbour Ranch therapy dogs from 1-2 p.m.

Entertainment continues with the Magic of Mike DiDomenico from 2-2:30 p.m., and the always popular pet parade and prizes from 2:30-3 p.m. There will be live DJ music throughout the event, keeping the energy high and the celebration going all afternoon.

For information, visit BarringtonChamber.com.

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CUSD 220 Tentative Fiscal 2026/27 Budget Public Hearing September 1st

Posted in 220, Barrington Education Association, Board of Education, Deception, District 220 referendum, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Education, Elections, Ethics, Illinois Federation of Teachers, Illinois State Board of Elections, Overhead, Politics, Property Taxes, Real Estate, School Districts, Taxes, Transparency, Unions, What the Ficke (Bradford)? on August 6, 2026| Leave a Comment »

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Board of Education of Barrington Community Unit School District 220, in the County of Lake, State of Illinois, that a Tentative Budget for said school district for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026, will be on file and “conveniently available” for public inspection at the Administrative Offices located at 515 West Main Street, Barrington, Illinois 60010, beginning August 1, 2026.

NOTICE IS FURTHER HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing on said Budget will be held at 6:00 p.m. on the 1st day of September, 2026, at the Administrative Offices, 515 West Main Street, Barrington, Illinois 60010.

Dated this 1st day of August, 2026.
Board of Education
Barrington Community Unit School District 220
County of Lake, State of Illinois
Diana Clopton
Secretary
Board of Education

Related: “District 220 board members violated campaign policies, investigation finds,” “Proposed Policy Change Would Strip Anonymous Formal Grievances in Barrington District 220,” “Reminder: CUSD 220 Board of Education meeting tonight,” “CUSD 220 Board delivers second (slappier) slap on the wrist to member Erin Chan Ding,” “CUSD 220 Board of Education public comments we applaud,” “Special District 220 Board of Education meeting Monday,” “Over $100,000 in Special Interest Funding gifted to 220 Board member’s campaign in failed bid for State Rep job,” “New Evidence of Chan Ding’s Policy Violations and Conflicts of Interest,” “The D220 Board of Ed gets another ‘F’ in accountability & transparency,” “The Real Issue in Barrington 220 Isn’t Parking or Levies — It’s Leadership Culture,” “BOARD OF ED VOTES, MEMBER CHAN DING MADE FLAGRANT POLICY VIOLATIONS – Part 2,” “BOARD OF ED VOTES, MEMBER CHAN DING MADE FLAGRANT POLICY VIOLATIONS,” “District 220’s Lack of Transparency (Updated),” “District 220’s Lack of Transparency” and “Change.org Petition: ‘For the Resignation of Erin Chan Ding ~ D220 Resources are Not for Political Campaigns’“

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