Happy Friday!

🙏🏼 Chicago native Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as Pope Leo XIV — the first American pope in history.

🌦️ Today’s weather: Scattered showers with a high of 85°F (29°C).

📺 Watch this: Take a peek inside one of Glen Ellyn’s most iconic homes in my latest video! "Inside THE MOST ICONIC Home In One Of Chicago's HOTTEST Suburbs! (Glen Ellyn)" is now live.

🍴 Check out The Foodie’s Guide for this week’s best eats, and scroll down for WHAT'S HAPPENIN' IN THE 'BURBS? — your weekend events roundup. 

Let’s dive in!

 - Brandon Blankenship, Founder of Living Chicago Suburbs / Realtor with Keller Williams Premiere Properties

Events

This Weekend Events…

🍬 Sips & Sweets

📍Location: Fox Valley Mall, 195 Fox Valley Center Drive, Aurora
🗓️ Date & Time: May 17 | 4pm to 7pm
🎟️ Tickets: From $28.52
🔗 More Info

🏎️ Greater Chicago Soapbox Derby Spring Rally

📍Location: Frontenac Road and Diehl Road in Naperville
🗓️ Date & Time: May 17 & 18 | Race begins at 9am
🎟️ Tickets: Race Fee $30 per race
🔗 More Info

🎻 A Celebration of the Classics

📍Location: Neuqua Valley High School, 2360 95th St., Naperville
🗓️ Date & Time: May 18 | at 3pm
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🔗 More Info

Nothing in this section is sponsored, I will let you know when it's sponsored

News

Driving the news: History was made this week as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a Chicago native, was elected as the new pope—becoming the first American to lead the Roman Catholic Church. He will now be known as Pope Leo XIV.

Details:

• Elected on the second day of conclave with white smoke rising over the Sistine Chapel

• Ordained a priest in 1982, consecrated bishop in 2014

• Previously served as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America

• Elevated to Cardinal by Pope Francis in September 2023

Local reaction: Ronald A. Hicks, Bishop of the Diocese of Joliet, welcomed the election, calling on the faithful to "pray for Pope Leo XIV, the entire Church, and the World."

Celebrating the new pontiff:

• St. Raphael Catholic Church in Naperville will also celebrate Friday Mass in honor of Pope Leo XIV at 8:30 a.m.

Why it matters: Pope Leo XIV’s election marks a historic shift for the Catholic Church, introducing American leadership at a global spiritual crossroads.

The bottom line: Pope Leo XIV brings deep pastoral and international experience to the papacy, with local communities celebrating his groundbreaking election.

JOIN THE FUN ON INSTAGRAM 🎉

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Food

BREAKFAST

🥞 Buttermilk Cafe

What makes a morning good? We think it’s the perfect blend of gourmet coffee and warm smiles in an upscale atmosphere that’s just as inviting. A good morning is when your day’s off to a fresh start because you’re sitting down to bold, bright flavors and only the freshest ingredients.

CHECK IT OUT

LUNCH

🍝 Maggiano's Little Italy

Experience an Italian Renaissance one bite at a time. We’ve reimagined Italian classics with elevated ingredients, expert artisanship, and bold new flavors.

CHECK IT OUT

DINNER

🍺 Miller's Ale House

Looking for a restaurant near you that serves up bold flavors, cold drinks, and a lively sports bar atmosphere? Miller’s Ale House – Chicago Lombard is your go-to destination for great food and unbeatable game-day experiences.

CHECK IT OUT

Watch This

This Home is a GEM in Glen Ellyn, Illinois! Totally transformed from top to bottom, this is true ranch living at it's finest! This was a special remodel and transformation as well from Wetmore Construction and Justin Bayle!

Market

The real estate market in the Chicago suburbs (especially Naperville, Wheaton, and Glen Ellyn) remains active and competitive. Whether you're planning to buy or sell, having the right local expert makes all the difference.

Thinking of selling? I’ll craft a strategic marketing plan and help you price your home to attract serious buyers and get the best return.

Ready to buy? With today’s interest rates and available inventory, now could be the perfect time to make your move. I’ll help you find the right home and navigate every step of the process with confidence.

🗞️ In Other News…

• First Indian American elected to Naperville Park Board sworn in

• Illinois State Fair announces final grandstand headliner for 2025

• Illinois residents urged to turn off lights to help migrating birds. Here's when

🏠 Are you thinking of buying, selling, or investing in the Chicago Suburbs? We’d love to be your Real Estate Resource of Choice. Get started here!

Brandon Blankenship Real Estate Broker
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call or text @ 630.923.9535