Tourism Area Guide 2021

2021

Visitors Guide

A return to fun after the pandemic A Rock Valley Publishing LLC publication 2021

Stephenson County fairgrounds State launches $6 million will host 2021 county fair tourism campaign Page 2

2021 AREA VISITORS GUIDE

aimed at boosting postpandemic travel

The Stephenson County Fair Association (SCFA) is excited to announce the 2021 Stephenson County Fair will go on. Dates for the fair are Tuesday, July 27 through Saturday, July 31. Of course, that is barring any more setbacks with the pandemic and the Governor reversing the decision to enter the “Bridge Phase” on May 14. We hope that phase will allow us to move into Phase 5 as early as June 11.

The SCFA board, staff, and volunteers have been working hard to plan a great fair this year. C.D.A.C. Amusements will provide 20+ carnival rides for all ages with unlimited wristbands on Tuesday and Friday from 5 p.m. to close and Saturday afternoon from 1 to 5 p.m.

Livestock shows will take place each day with lots of animals on the grounds to see.

The HomeEc building will be alive with lots of exhibits and cake walks will take place each evening, Tuesday thru Friday.

Stephenson County 4-H will have exhibits set up in their new home, the Foresight Commercial building, for all to enjoy. There will be lots of on-grounds entertainment including a daily lumberjack show.

The Mobile Axe Throwing and Escape Room will be ready for you to participate along with Fabulous Faces face painting.

The Queen Pageant is scheduled for Tuesday evening starting at 6pm with lots of entertainment the rest of the week including Hoo Haven Rehab, Storytime with the Queen, and a demo by Star Ambulance and Freeport Rural Fire Department Saturday afternoon.

The family-friendly beer tent will be

BY TIM KIRSININKAS CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

back Thursday, Friday and Saturday night with local bands playing a mix of music for your enjoyment. And who can forget about the Grandstand events and all the great food and commercial vendors on the grounds and in the Liberty Power Commercial building. FairEntry.com is open to take your exhibit registrations an, d the complete Fair Book and list of events can be found on our website at www. stephensoncountyfair.org.

To find out more about SCFA, becoming

a sponsor, advertising on our digital signrenting the grounds for an event, or checking the Calendar of Events, please visit our website or follow us on Facebook.

Board meetings are held the fourth Thursday of each month.

If you have any questions, please call the Fair Office at 815-235-2918 or email info@stephensoncountyfair.org. On behalf of the SCFA Board of Directors, we look forward to seeing everyone at the 2021 Stephenson County Fair July 27-31.

Alp and Dell Cheese Store: A MUST VISIT IN THE MIDWEST Tony and Esther Zgraggen, owners of the Alp and Dell Cheese Store, immigrated in the 1980’s to the United States from Switzerland. At that time they had a Dairy farm and for 5 years took cheese to the farmers market in Madison. After being absent from the Dairy industry for several years, they found the way back to the “cheese” with the purchase of the Alp and Dell Cheese Store in April 2009.

Alp & Dell Cheese Store is located at 657 2nd St, Monroe, Wis. For more information call 608-328-3355.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Visitors Guide

The Alp and Dell Cheese Store is located in Green County, the Heart of Wisconsin’s Dairy and Cheese Industry. Green County has about 400 Dairy farms producing 530 million pounds of milk annually. In the remaining 13 Cheese factories in Green County, many master cheesemakers are busy turning this farm fresh product into Green County Gold.

The Alp and Dell Cheese store is a

leader in quality, selection and price. Along with the local cheeses, Alp & Dell offers a nice selection of well known imported cheese from Europe. A well balanced selection of wines from throughout the world and some locally brewed beers round out our assortment. The Midwest magazine picked the Alp and Dell cheese store as one of the “must visit places” in the Midwest in 2011.

Gov. JB Pritzker announced a new $6 million tourism advertising campaign Wednesday aimed at attracting visitors to the state and sparking economic activity following the COVID-19 pandemic.

The multimedia campaign, featured around the theme “Time for Me to Drive,” showcases various destinations in all parts of the state and aims to reflect Illinois as a top destination for road trips.

According to a news release, the campaign reflects increasing consumer trends to take shorter trips by car to destinations closer to home following the pandemic. The campaign is the first to be released by the state since the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic last year.

“More and more travelers are ready to get back out there. Recent surveys show that half of Americans plan to travel this summer, and half of them intend to drive,” Pritzker said Wednesday at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library in Springfield. “So, whether you want to ease your way back into travel or are raring to go, taking the great American road trip is a great way to enjoy yourself and to stay safe.”

Pritzker said the new campaign introduces tourists to “an Illinois they may not have seen before,” including destinations such as state parks, the Shawnee National Forest and the Garden of the Gods.

The campaign also promotes the cities of Chicago, Springfield and Galena as potential road trip destinations.

Sylvia Garcia, acting director of the state’s Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, said prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Illinois saw over 120 million visitors annually who collectively spent more than $40 billion in the state.

Garcia said those numbers were “cut in half” as a result of the pandemic last year. “(The) Time for Me to Drive campaign is not only a milestone in bringing tourism back for this summer, it’s also part of our ongoing work towards a strong recovery for the tourism industry over the long term,” Garcia said.

The advertising campaign includes television, radio, digital and print spots. Garcia said the campaign would primarily be shown in the seven states surrounding Illinois and 18 total markets.

Michael Jacobson, president and CEO of the Illinois Hotel and Lodging Association, said promoting tourism in the state “puts people back to work” and will be important to the state’s economic recovery following the pandemic.

“What people rarely realize is that an investment in tourism promotion is an investment in economic development,” Jacobson said.

“Promoting tourism helps our economy by getting visitors to stay in our hotels, to eat in our restaurants, shop in our retail stores, buy fuel in our gas stations, and enjoy our amazing attractions,” he added.

2021 AREA VISITORS GUIDE

Rockford Midtown Market returns for a fourth year

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Midtown District Association and Katie’s Cup are proud to collaborate once again on Rockford Midtown Market for 2021.

Beginning on Thursday, June 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p,m. at the corner of Seventh Street and Fourth Avenue, being held weekly on Thursdays through Sept. 30, in the parking lot of RPS205.

“We invite people who work, serve, live and play in the Rockford area to come into Rockford’s Historic Midtown District for healthy fresh food and great local crafts.

Bicycles are also welcome!” said Pastor Michael Thomas, Director of Rockford Midtown Market.

The first Thursday of each month’s market will have a healthy focus, with area agencies appearing to help with blood pressure reading and offering healthy lifestyle alternatives for those who wish to have assistance or ideas.

The Rockford Midtown Market will have fresh farm vegetables from area farmers and producers, as well as music, pastries, jewelry, pet treats, coffee, and lunch food.

Springtime at the Ethnic Heritage Museum The Heritage Museum Park (Ethnic Heritage Museum) is welcoming spring with two new events.

Ribbon cutting and gazebo dedication ceremony On Thursday, June 10 at 10 a.m., the Board of Directors for the Heritage Museum Park and the Rockford Chamber of Commerce will dedicate a new gazebo erected during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This event will have a limited audience.

Speakers will include Heritage Museum Park members, elected officials and other members of the community. Attendees will have the ability to tour the Ethnic Heritage Museum and the Graham-Ginestra House.

Live music will be played in the Gazebo.

This new gazebo was made possible through a generous grant from the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois.

Gazebo Open House On Sunday, June 13 from 1 to 4 p.m., Heritage Museum Park will host live music in the Gazebo. “Bring a blanket or chair to relax outside and enjoy the live music.”

• CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Discovery Center is located on the Riverfront Museum Park campus, 711 N. Main St., Rockford.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Visitors Guide

Rockford’s Discovery Center open with reservations Behind our masks, we are smiling from ear to ear as we open our doors and welcome families back. If you’ve previously been to our museum, your visit this time will seem a bit different that you are used to, but it will remain just as fun as before.

Advance reservations are required.

Timed entry tickets for 2-hour visit will help us regulate capacity and ensure a quality visit for your family. This will also allow us to have time to clean and sanitize in between timed visits.

Reservations can also be made by calling 815-963-6769. If you have a Discovery Center coupon, gift certificate or reciprocal membership, please call to make reservations. Members must make online or phone reservations as well.

Before you enter the museum, we will check your temperature, have you answer several health screening questions, and provide sanitizer for your use. Then you can scan your online reservation at the admission desk. It’s all contactless! Plus, remember to rock the mask!

Grownups, children ages 6+, and

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Discovery Center fun Would you like to be an astronaut, traveling the galaxy in your own spaceship? Or fly over land and sea in a

2021

NOW L L A C FOR A

Museum staff must wear masks that cover the nose and mouth to enter the Museum (when medically able).

Caregivers visiting with children who have medical conditions, ASD and similar processing differences are encouraged to let our staff know.

We strongly encourage tots ages 5 and younger to wear face coverings as well, though they are not required.

Face coverings are not required in our outdoor park when social distancing can be maintained. Our staff are also required to wear masks, and undergo temperature checks and health screenings.

Social distancing is a team effort. One of our friendly Discovery Guides will welcome and accompany you in a group (consisting of approximately 6 people) during your visit to aid with social distancing and ensure your children have the opportunity for safe and joyful play.

Visitors Guide A publication of Rock Valley Publishing LLC 1102 Ann St., Delavan, WI 53115 • (262) 763-3511

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Editor in Chief: Ed Nadolski • Section Editor: Melanie Bradley Page Design: Jen DeGroot • Creative Director: Heidi Schulz Advertising Director: Vicki Vanderwerff

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jet? Maybe you’re the down to earth type.

Would you like to forecast the weather in a television studio? Or create your own police sketch while unraveling the mysteries of human genetics?

When you visit Discovery Center Museum, you and your family can explore the world, and even the universe, without ever leaving our inspiring environment.

The thrill of exploration and discovery is built into every one of our 250-plus hands-on science and arts exhibits located inside Discovery Center Museum and outside in Rock River Discovery Park.

Discovery Center is located on the Riverfront Museum Park campus, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, with the Rockford Art Museum and adjacent to the Burpee Museum of Natural History in downtown Rockford, Ill. We’re ideally located for a full day or two of education and adventure.

Hours: Monday - Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information call (815) 963-6769.

On the cover: Rockford’s own Cheap Trick announced earlier this month that they along with 20 other bands will perform in Loves Park at the Rockford Rivets stadium during a four-day Long Play Music Fest Fourth of July weekend.

JASON PARKINS PHOTO Visitors Guide

2021 AREA VISITORS GUIDE

The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Northwest Illinois (CHOM) is fully reopened to CHOM members and to the public.

“We are so excited about reopening our entire museum,” said Sarah Flashing, Executive Director. “We have been looking at the timing to do this, and as Illinois enters into the Bridge Phase which allows for higher capacity limits at places like museums and zoos, we will reopen under an abundance of caution.”

The Bridge Phase in Illinois began May 14, allowing for higher capacity limits at places like museums, zoos, and spectator events as well as increased business operations during a transitional period between the current guidelines and Phase 5.

CHOM can meet the requirements of the Bridge Phase for museums and indoor recreation, which allow for 5060 percent capacity.

Museum hours will continue to be 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday and Saturday, but reservations and timed visits will no longer be required. As more volunteers return to support the work of the museum, CHOM’s schedule will change to include additional hours and days. Information on CHOM hours and changes to the schedule can be found at www. visitchom.org.

The museum has been closed since March 15, 2020, because of the COVID-19 pandemic. During the closure, CHOM prepared to offer

a modified reopening in February 2021 that closed half of the museum but provided a timed exhibit circuit with family social distancing built into the schedule. The museum also implemented a timed-ticketing system.

“We have missed seeing families play throughout the museum and spending time in their favorite exhibits. We are thrilled to welcome everyone back to the museum,” said Sarah Flashing. “New exhibits are in the works and opportunities to volunteer in the museum and on committees are also available.”

Masks will continue to be required and temperatures taken at the doors along with regular disinfecting protocols. Families will be asked to social distance while at CHOM. Birthday parties and field trips will also resume, families and groups are encouraged to make their reservations.

The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Northwest Illinois is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, committed to inspiring all children and families to learn, explore, and create through interactive experiences. Without the support of our members, volunteers and generous donors, we would not be able to continue our commitment to nurturing a love of learning in children. The museum is located at 1233 W. Galena Ave., Freeport, Ill., Call 815-616-5632 for more information.

Illinois wineries, vineyards hope warmer weather brings strong recovery from pandemic With the return of warmer weather as well as guidelines to safely allow for enhanced capacity, wineries and vineyards across Illinois are hoping for a strong recovery after more than a year of widespread disruption caused by the pandemic.

Wineries and vineyards, like other members of the hospitality industry, were greatly impacted by the ongoing pandemic.

They faced significant drops in revenue at the same time costs skyrocketed as they sought to keep up with complex health and safety regulations, including investing in personal protective equipment, sanitation services and carry out and delivery operations.

Small and mid-sized wineries and vineyards also faced a steep decline in their events business, with weddings, reunions, corporate retreats and other large events put on hold for much of the last year. Many relied on the Paycheck Protection Program and disaster loans to survive. While these programs helped provide an important lifeline, they still face financial pressure related to property taxes, payroll, workers’ compensation as well as state alcohol excise taxes.

“Illinois wineries and vineyards are not only important economic drivers in their communities, they are key to the state’s overall tourism industry,” said Lisa Ellis, Executive Director of the Illinois Grape

Growers and Vintners Alliance.

“Between skyrocketing operation costs and limited revenue streams, COVID-19 has resulted in many of these businesses struggling to survive. It’s a critical time for the hospitality industry, and we will need the continued support of state officials to recover fully.”

Illinois’ wine industry employed 36,403 people and generated $2.98 billion in economic activity in 2019, according to an economic impact study conducted by the Illinois Grape Growers & Vintners Alliance. In order to begin recovering and return to pre-pandemic business levels, wineries and vineyards will need the continued support of their communities.”

“We were lucky to receive support from the community, including many who took advantage of our ability to safely serve customers outdoors. However, our events and weddings business took a significant hit, and our overall revenue was down more than 50 percent compared to normal years, while the costs that go into running a business remained,” said Diane Hahn, owner of Mackinaw Valley Vineyard.

“We look forward to welcoming people back to our various events and helping local nonprofits with their fundraising efforts to help them recover lost financial ground. Our communities are stronger • CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

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Country music acts take to the OSD stage in Rockton, Ill. 2021 AREA VISITORS GUIDE

The Old Settlers Days Festival returns to Rockton, Ill. June 17-20 Parking restrictions have been established on the perimeter streets of festival grounds to ensure the safety of pedestrian traffic and emergency vehicle access. It is recommended that you also use the free parking provided at Hononegah High School (307 Salem Street).

The main entrance of the festival is a short walk west on Main Street from that parking lot. Handicapped parking is being offered at the parking lot on the corner of Blackhawk and Hawick Streets. Vehicles using this location must display a valid handicapped parking placard.​

4 to 11 p.m. Miller/Coors Beer Tent open 5 to 11 p.m. Midway by Skinners Amusements Ride Special $20 Ticket Sheets 5 to 11 p.m. Sponsor’s VIP Tent Open Beer Tent Entertainment No additional ticket required.

4 to 5 p.m. DJ 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Dirt Road Rebelz

2021 OSD Schedule

Gates open 12:30 p.m.

7 to 11 a.m. 5K Run/Walk 9 to 11 a.m. 5K Run/ Walk Awards Noon - Parade – Main Street Rockton 1 to 11 p.m. Midway by Skinners Amusements 1 to 5 p.m. Carnival Special $20 Wristband Special all rides all ages 1 to 11 p.m. Festival Vendors, Information Booth, 50/50 Raffle Tickets and Food Booths open 1 to 11 p.m. Miller/Coors Beer Tent open 1 to 11 p.m. Sponsor’s VIP Tent Open Beer Tent Entertainment – No additional ticket required 1 to 3 p.m. DJ 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Penny Mae Dixon Band 6 to 8 p.m. Blind Date

Subject to change without notice

THURSDAY, JUNE 17 Gates open 4 p.m.

1 to 8 p.m. Rock River Valley Blood Drive – Rockton American Center (note new location). Give Blood get a 4-Day General Admission Festival Pass, donate a pair of eyeglasses for a second pass.

5 to 10 p.m. Midway by Skinners Amusements 5 to 9 p.m. Ride Special $20 Wristband Special, all rides all ages 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Festival Vendors, Information Booth, 50/50 Raffle Tickets and Food Booths open 4 to 11 p.m. Miller/Coors Beer Tent open 5 to 11 p.m. Sponsor’s VIP Tent Open Beer Tent Entertainment – No additional ticket required 4 to 5 p.m. DJ 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Minimal MAIN STAGE Additional concert ticket required. Gates open approximately one hour prior to showtime.

7:30 p.m. Granger Smith, Featuring Earl Dibbles Jr with Bella Cain

FRIDAY, JUNE 18 Gates open 4 p.m.

4 to 11 p.m. Festival Vendors, Information Booth, 50/50 Raffle Tickets and Food Booths open

MUSEUM

MAIN STAGE Additional concert ticket required. Gates open approximately one hour prior to showtime.

8 p.m. Jimmie Allen with Matt Stell

SATURDAY, JUNE 19

Granger Smith

Gabby Barrett

MAIN STAGE Additional concert ticket required. Gates open approximately one hour prior to showtime.

8:30 p.m. Riley Green with Troy Cartwright

SUNDAY, JUNE 20 Gates open 1:30 p.m.

2 to 9:30 p.m. Midway by Skinners Amusements Ride special All rides discounted to two or three tickets 2 to 9:30 p.m. Festival Vendors, Information Booth, 50/50 Raffle Tickets and Food Booths open 2 to 9:30 p.m. Miller/Coors Beer Tent open 4 to 10 p.m. Sponsor’s VIP Tent Open 5 to 9 p.m. Mechanical Bull Rides near

• CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

A local food-truck favorite will be onsite.

Free tours through Ethnic Heritage Museum and the Graham-Ginestra House will be available.

This event was made possible through the generosity of Members Alliance Credit Union. The Heritage Museum Park, a historical campus on South Main Street, is comprised of the Ethnic Heritage Museum and the Graham-Ginestra House.

The Ethnic Heritage Museum celebrates the cultural history of six nationalities: African American, Hispanic, Irish, Italian, Lithuanian, and Polish.

The Graham-Ginestra House is a beautiful historic home built in the 1850’s by the Graham family and purchased in 1920’s by

Page 5

the Ginestra family. For almost 150 years the home was only occupied by members of these two families.

The Heritage Museum Park is taking part in the community-wide initiative entitled, “Clean Hands,” and has re-opened safely and responsibly. Visitors must wear masks and practice social distancing while inside the house museums. Hand sanitizer will be available. Masks are optional outside on the museum campus.

General admission to both museums is only $5 student, $7 individual, $15 per family or free to members. Call 815-962-7402 to make reservations or for more information visit www. ethnicheritagemuseum.org.

Jimmie Allen

Riley Green

beer tent 8:45 p.m. Hefty 50/50 Drawing – Main Stage Beer Tent Entertainment No additional ticket required.

2:30 to 4 p.m. DJ 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Bree Morgan

STRONG RECOVERY

MAIN STAGE Additional concert ticket required. Gates open approximately one hour prior to showtime.

7 p.m. Gabby Barrett with Walker County • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

when we work together, and as the state prepares for further reopening we encourage everyone to support local businesses. Local matters, now more than ever.”

The impact of the pandemic on Illinois’ hospitality industry includes: Loss in on-premise wine and alcohol sales, with volume sales down more than 46.8 percent in 2020 compared to 2019.

This change has resulted in extensive job and economic losses for neighborhood businesses.

Reductions in sales at winery tasting rooms. Though direct-to-consumer shipments have increased during the pandemic, it has not come close to

compensating for the loss of wine sales by restaurants and bars.

Drops in sales to restaurants, bars and taverns, with 30 percent of establishments not placing new wine and beer orders since the pandemic began.

“The wine industry has found a way to adapt during this past year, and we are looking forward to welcoming customers back to our winery,” said Caroline Schrader, Winemaker at City Winery.

“That said, we will need continued support from elected officials to ensure the industry’s survival, which goes well beyond the sales generated to the workers we employ and the betterment of the communities we serve.”

Rockford City Market announces 12th outdoor season Page 6

2021 AREA VISITORS GUIDE

New vendors, partners, footprint announced

Rockford City Market kicked off their 12th outdoor season on Friday, May 21.

The Market is an open air weekly market featuring locally grown and made items, prepared food and drink, live music, and family activities.

Several new initiatives were announced

by Rock River Development Partnership (RRDP), the not for profit organization that manages the Market at today’s press conference. New this season: New Vendors - Twenty-four new vendors will be joining the lineup at the Market in all categories: prepared food, farmers, treats and hand-crafted items. There will be a total of 54 vendors starting on opening day. New this year are vintage and local business vendor spots inside the Market Hall adjacent to the alley. New vendor Tisha Hannah of T & C Cooking Creations offered tasting samples of her menu. A complete list of vendors is attached, and can be found at http://www. rockfordcitymarket.com/vendors2021.

“Minority and women owned small businesses have played a major role in the Market since its inception, and this season our vendors are 61 percent women and minority-owned.” said Peter J. Provenzano, Chairman of the Rock River Development Partnership.

Larger Market Footprint - The Market will have expanded boundaries to accommodate the social distancing required to keep vendors and patrons safe and comfortable.

Vendors will be placed with 6’ between the booths, and seating areas will be

Rockford City Market attracts thousand of visitors and Rockfordians every Friday night in downtown Rockford.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Visitors Guide

appropriately distanced in several locations..

Local businesses will also be participating outdoors in front of their storefronts with food, drink, and activities.

“Rockford City Market has been home to many small, local entrepreneurs selling their goods and thousands of residents looking to support local businesses over the past 11 years, and I’m thrilled to be able to help kick off another season,” says Mayor McNamara.

“With Rockford beginning to open back up after strict COVID restrictions for more than a year and more downtown businesses

participating, we expect larger crowds and have worked with City Market to expand the footprint of the event. I hope the community will join me in supporting our local businesses during this year’s market!”

Sponsors - MercyHealth will be returning for the 10th year as Presenting Sponsor of the Market, and will be back on-site with a weekly presence staffed by their various departments. Additional sponsors include: Illinois Bank & Trust, OrthoIllinois, MidWest Family Broadcasting, Delehanty Funeral Home, Project First Rate,

Lincoln Highway Heritage Festival 2021

ROCHELLE, IL

Northwestern IL Building Trades Unions, Pig Minds Brewing Co., Prairie Street Brewing Co., LaMonica Beverages, Joseph James Partners, Pepsi, Interstate Graphics, Larson & Darby, Waterside Financial, and Workplace.

New Partnerships - The Rock River Development Partnership announced several new partnerships which will enhance everyone’s experience at The Market this season. The Rockford Park District will be debuting, “Time 2 Play - City Market Edition” offering free family-friendly weekly rotating recreational activities. Time 2 Play – City Market Edition will take place on East State Street, right outside Joe Marino Park.

Activities showcased will give the community a sample of what the Rockford Park District offers year-round. Where there is fun, there is music too! The Park District is excited to partner with Mid-West Family Broadcasting-Rockford who will provide music to complement the wide variety of activities led by recreation experts.

“We know that families need to enjoy life now more than ever so while we aren’t new to the Rockford City Market, we are excited to expand our partnership and be a weekly staple. Families can spend quality time together and sample what their Rockford Park District offers as we provide programs and services that are accessible to all, and meet the recreational needs of our diverse community,” said Rockford Park District Executive Director Jay Sandine.

The Rockford City Market is held in downtown Rockford, IL, Fridays, May 21 - Sept 24, from 3:30 to 8:30 p.m. (3:30 to 7:30 after Labor Day).

• Crafters/Vendors • Food Court • Various Local Talent All Day

HUB CITY CRUISERS Car & Motorcycle Show 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

50/50 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

ONE FINE DAY Sat., August 21

RAFFLE www.lhhfest.com Live Music By:

Please bring your own chairs or blankets

Vodka Boys Southern Ride Blue Steel

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2021 AREA VISITORS GUIDE

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Enjoy a full day of activities at Byron Forest Preserve The Byron Forest Preserve District is located on the hills along the Rock River in Byron. With its many acres of prairie and woodlands, it is beautiful in every season. It holds miles of walking trails, and provides picnic shelters, a playground, horseback riding, golf, and gorgeous views.

Golf course designer James Spear designed the forest preserve’s 18 hole, bentgrass PrairieView Golf Course

The Weiskopf Observatory with its 11” Celestron reflecting telescope, is available for public viewing and special programs.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Visitors Guide

which provides a challenging game for golfers.

Some of its many programs include archery, hunter safety, fishing, camps, beekeeping classes, sky viewing, fossil hunts, canoeing, cross country skiing, hiking, camps, and trips. The Forest Preserve also holds 300 acres of land, through donations and grants, which is a perpetual part of the Illinois Prairie Grass Program.

The Weiskopf Observatory with its 11” Celestron reflecting telescope, is available for public viewing and special programs. Weekly public viewing sessions, offer experienced staff to guide you through the skies. Public viewing is held on Tuesday and Saturday nights beginning at dark for three hours during the summer months. Public viewing is held only on Saturday nights from August through May. There is no admission fee for public viewing.

The Heritage Farm Museum is a restored farm from 1843 when Charlie Wilbur and his family moved from New York to settle in Byron. Visitors can experience what early country life was about. Farm “residents” and chickens are only a couple of experiences visitors can enjoy.

The Jarrett Prairie Center holds

Golf course designer James Spear designed the forest preserve’s 18-hole, bentgrass PrairieView Golf Course, which provides a challenging game for golfers.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Visitors Guide

expanded museum space and offers amazing views of the prairie nature preserve. Exhibits demonstrate prairie ecology and include a new, immersive theater.

The Finest In Estate and Antique Jewelry

The Forest Preserve holds 300 acres of land, through donations and grants, which is a perpetual part of the Illinois Prairie Grass Program.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Visitors Guide

Come in and browse

Luecke Jewelers

Museums Observatory Trails PrairieView Golf Club

Historic Square

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PrairieFire Golf & Grill

indoor/outdoor driving range to reserve a bay call 815-234-FIRE

Byron Forest Preserve (815) 234-8535 www.byronforestpreserve.com

The Byron Forest Preserve District’s Calendar of Events can be found online for more information about all the exciting things to do and experience at www.byronforestpreserve.com.

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2021 AREA VISITORS GUIDE

Long Play Music Fest at Rivets Stadium over Fourth of July weekend to include Cheap Trick, Jeff Tweedy, Gin Blossoms Baseball, the carnival & the grill pit

Last Friday, StarEvents CEO John Barry - alongside Cheap Trick Lead Guitarist Rick Nielsen, City of Loves Park Mayor Greg Jury, and other community leaders announced a four-day music festival called Long Play Music Fest that will be held at Rivets Stadium in Loves Park, Illinois, from Thursday, July 1 through Sunday, July 4.

Long Play Music Fest will feature two stages and more than 20 bands, fireworks, a carnival, and local food vendors and artisans.

“I was born and raised in the Rockford region, and Fourth of July weekend is the perfect time for my team to produce a music festival right here in my hometown,” said StarEvents CEO John Barry.

“I dreamed up StarEvents in the fall of 1996 and have been creating, producing, and managing festivals ever since.

Now, more than ever, communities are seeking professionally managed events and festivals that offer safe and fun entertainment. We appreciate support from the City of Loves Park, The Parks Chamber of Commerce, and the Winnebago County Health Department, and we’re excited to host the first of many festivals and concerts at Rivets Stadium in Loves Park.”

“The City of Loves Park is proud to welcome StarEvents and Long Play Music Fest to our community for what we hope is the first of many festivals and events at Rivets Stadium” said City of Loves Park Mayor Greg Jury.

“We often say that the City of Loves Park has something for everyone, and Rivets Stadium is the perfect location for this new, four-day music festival.

With an extraordinary lineup of bands, a strategic location at I-90 and Riverside, and excellent infrastructure and amenities, this event will surely draw both local and regional attendees.”

Long Play Music Fest will kick off with a baseball game between the Rivets and Battle Creek and the Carnival both starting at 3 p.m. on Thursday, July 1.

“After Thursday’s event, the stadium will be transformed into Long Play Music Fest with the addition of our Main Stage to Center Field and the Grill Pit that will feature local restaurant vendors,” said Barry. “Rivets Stadium will be packed with smells of BBQ, beverages, and people joining their friends and families for a reunion like no other.”

The Carnival outside the stadium will be held July 1 through July 4 and will feature rides like Pharoah’s Fury, Orbiter, Moby Dick, Freakout, Cliffhanger, Fast and Furious, Zero Gravity, and more! Details of the Carnival are also available online at LongPlayMusicFest.com The Grill Pit will feature food from local restaurants. Restaurants and food vendors - in addition to local businesses, artisans, merchants, and nonprofits - who are interested in participating in the event may contact Jessie Burdett at jburdett@ StarEvents.com for more information.

“StarEvents will follow all state and CDC guidelines at the time of the event.

Our team has trained through several COVID Certifications and Courses through John Hopkins, Cornerstone, and more,” said Barry. “We have also met with the Winnebago County Health Department and put together a code of conduct to keep all of our event attendees, vendors, and staff safe. We look forward to a wonderful event over Fourth of July weekend.”

About StarEvents

StarEvents is an award winning event management company that specializes in festivals, galas, corporate conferences, and private events. For over 25 years, StarEvents has produced over 1,000 events with over one million attendees per year and has raised over $20 Million for charity. Event-production services include consulting, project management, logistics, marketing, and talent buying. For more information, visit StarEvents.com.

The bands

Headliners and bands announced include: * Friday, July 2: Gin Blossoms with other bands including Hairbangers Ball and Blooze Brothers * Saturday, July 3: Jeff Tweedy with other bands including Too Hype Crew and Catfight * Sunday, July 4: Cheap Trick with opening band 7th Heaven “Cheap Trick is proud to be from the Rockford area, and we’re honored to headline at Long Play Music Fest on the Fourth of July right here in our hometown,” said Cheap Trick Lead Guitarist and Songwriter Rick Nielsen.

“In 2006, we released our fifteenth studio album named Rockford as a tribute to our home. With the recent release of our new album In Another World, we can’t think of a better place or time to celebrate our first-ever number one album.

In Another World is also our fourth new album in five years, so we look forward to performing some of our newest songs in addition to fan favorites at the fest.”

The fest: 2021 dates, times & ticket prices

The inaugural Long Play Music Fest will be held at Rivets Stadium in Loves Park, Illinois, on the following dates:

Rick Nielsen and Cheap Trick will headline the new four-day Long Play Music Fest at Rivets Stadium. More than 20 bands, including the Gin Blossoms and Blooze Brothers, will perform on two stages during the July 1-4 event that also will feature a fireworks show, carnival and food vendors. To purchase tickets, visit: https://www.starevents.com/event/long-play-music-fest/.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Visitors Guide

* Thursday, July 1: 3 p.m. - 11 p.m. * Friday, July 2: Noon - 11 p.m. * Saturday, July 3: Noon - 11 p.m. * Sunday, July 4: Noon - 11 p.m.

General admission tickets start at $19.99. The carnival will be held outside the stadium, and unlimited carnival ride passes will be available for $30 per day or $50 for the entire weekend.

VIP Tickets start at $100 and will include: * Exclusive access to the VIP Concert Area with premier seating right next to stage, a private bar, and private bathrooms * VIP Parking close to venue * VIP Entrance * Premier view of the fireworks with

open seating * Admission into the festival, family area, vendor and food vendor booths, including the Grill Pit To purchase both VIP and General Admission Tickets, visit LongPlayMusicFest.com

Fireworks

Fireworks shows will be held for Long Play Music Fest attendees at Rivets Stadium on three nights: * Friday, July 2 at 9 p.m. * Saturday, July 3 at 9 p.m. * Sunday, July 4 at 10 p.m.

Tailgating will not be allowed in parking lots.

About The Parks Chamber Of Commerce

The mission of The Parks Chamber is to help businesses succeed with the right tools, connections, and resources.

We produce world-class events to help promote and connect our members to each other and to the community. We advocate for a competitive business climate, collaborating with public, private, and nonprofit partner organizations to help our region emerge from this economic downturn early, equitably, and sustainably.

We take an active role in representing our members’ business interests, leveraging relationships with local leaders and elected officials. We’re proud to also provide customized and innovative technology tools to help members promote and sell their products and services online. For more information, visit ParksChamber.com.

2021 AREA VISITORS GUIDE

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Boone County Fair making comeback in 2021 TUESDAY, AUG 10 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.

4-H Poultry Show 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

4-H Horse Show Noon to 2 p.m.

Harness & Colt Racing Noon to 1 p.m.

Music by Hallie (Country/Bluegrass) Noon - 12:30 p.m.

Flag Raising - VFW Color Guard 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Galaxy (Classic Country) 4 to 8 p.m.

Weigh-In Swine Jr. & Open Show 7 to 10 p.m.

Dale Rhode & the CrossRoads (Country) 7:30 to 10 p.m.

Queen Pageant & Little Miss Pageant

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 11 7:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Open and Jr. Poultry Show 8 to 11:30 a.m.

Open Rabbit Show 8:30 a.m. to Noon 4-H Carcass Show and 4-H Purebred Swine Shows 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

4-H Horse Show 9 a.m. to Noon 4-H Sheep Show 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Non-Livestock Bldg. Open 10 a.m. to Noon Kids Day (Games & Contests sponsored by Midland State Bank/Belvidere) Noon to 5 p.m.

Reduced Carnival Rides Noon to 2 p.m.

Harness & Colt Racing Noon to 1 p.m.

Orion Samuelson with Dale Rhode and the Crossroads Band 1 to 3 p.m.

VIP Classes 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Chip Messiner (One-man Country Band) 95.3 The Bull (One man country band- 95.3 The Bull) 3 to 4 p.m.

4-H Dairy Steer Show 4 to 5 p.m.

4-H Beef Carcass Show 4 to 5 p.m.

Jung’s Tae Kwon Do 4 to 5 p.m.

Mule & Pony Team Driving Obstacle course 5 to 6 p.m.

Antique Tractor Parade 5 to 6 p.m.

Horses (Draft or Light) Team Driving Obstacle Course 6 to 9 p.m.

4-H Rabbit Show 6 to 7 p.m.

Team Feed Race followed by 4-H Driving Drill Team 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Multi-Event Truck Pull with Shoot Out Challenge (Sponsored by Burger King) 7 to 10 p.m.

Grass Attack (Blue Grass/Country)

THURSDAY, AUG 12 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Junior Sheep Show 8 to 10 a.m.

4-H Goat Show 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

4-H Crossbread Swine Show 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Pony Classes 9 a.m. -to Noon 4-H Dairy Show 9 to 11:30 a.m.

4-H Beef Show 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Non-Livestock Bldg. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Farm Tractor Pulls

A six-horse hitch competes at the Boone County Fair in the recently refurbished horse arena with new fencing, lights and judges stand. The Boone County Fair has one of the largest county fair draft horse shows in the country.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Visitors Guide

10 a.m. to Noon Kids Day (Games & Contests sponsored by Midland State Bank/Belvidere) 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Reduced Carnival Rides 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Gene Shepherd & Mike Schneider Band Noon to 2 p.m.

Matthew Wundrow Band (Polka - Old Country Music) 1 to 4 p.m.

Junior Dairy Goat 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Local and Regional Tractor and Truck Pulls (Sponsored by Burger King) 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Acoustic Millenium Band 4 to 6 p.m.

Draft Horses Junior Performance and Cart Classes (Sponsored by Byron Bank) 5 to 7 p.m.

4-H Livestock Auction 5:30 to 10 p.m.

Kevin Burns - Good Vibrations (Beach Music) 6 to 7 p.m.

Mother/Daughter Look Alike Contest (Sponsored by Parnell Foods) 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Draft Horse Hitch Classes 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Tractor and Truck Pull 7 to 8 p.m.

Father/Son Look Alike Contest (Sponsored by Parnell Foods)

FRIDAY, AUG 13 8 to 9:30 a.m.

Dairy Goat Show - Open Classes 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Open & Jr. Market Barrow Show 9 to 11 a.m.

Open & Jr. Beef Show 9 to 11 a.m.

Draft Horse Halter Show 9 to 11 a.m.

Pony Halter & Performance Classes 9 to 10 a.m.

Open Sheep Show 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Non-Livestock Bldg. Open

10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

ATV Racing by KICKABUDA Promotions (Sponsored by Hammertine Sports) Noon to 3 p.m.

Detour Band (Old Country, 50’s & 60’s) 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Magic by Herb Rosene 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Gene Shepherd and Mike Schneider Band 5 to 6 p.m.

4-H Master Showmanship Contest 5 to 6 p.m.

Mary Lee’s School of Dance 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Open Wether Show 7 to 10 p.m.

Silver Creek Band 7 to 10 p.m.

Next Level Bull Riding and Barrel Racing

SATURDAY, AUG 14 7:30 a.m. to Noon Rock County Pullers followed by Amateur Garden Tractor Pull 8 a.m. to Noon Weak End Antique Tractor Pull 9 a.m. to Noon Open & Jr. Dairy Cow Judging 9 to 11 a.m.

Open & Jr. Dairy Show (Heifer Classes & Other) 9 to 11 a.m.

Boer Goat Open Show 9 to 11 a.m.

Open Sheep Show 9 to 10 a.m.

Open & Jr. Steer Judging 9 to 10 a.m.

Pony Performance & Hitch Classes 9:30 to 10 a.m.

Amateur Talent Content Signup 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Non-Livestock Bldg. Open 10 a.m. to Noon Draft Horse Hitch Classes (Sponsored by Byron Bank) 10:30 a.m. to Noon Junior Talent Contest (Age up to 14 Sponsored by Parnell Foods) 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Senior Talent Contest (Age 15-21 - Sponsored

by Parnell Foods) 1 to 4 p.m.

Pony Hitch Classes 2 to 3 p.m.

Supreme Grand Champion Dairy Selected 3 to 4 p.m.

Fur & Feather Auction 4 to 5 p.m.

Main Street Players of Boone County 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Gene Shepherd and Mike Schneider Band 5 to 6 p.m.

Celias Dance & Education Center 7 to 10 p.m.

Missing Links 8 to 11 p.m.

Diamond Rio

SUNDAY, AUG 15 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Church Service (Conducted by Gideon’s International) 9 to 10 a.m.

Alpaca Show 9:30 to 1 p.m.

Six Shooters at Dawn N. Illinois Outlaws Mounted Shoot 10 to 4 p.m.

Non-Livestock Bldg. Open 10 a.m. to Noon Pedal Pushers Pull (Sponsored by A.R. Henninger Family) 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Jr. Dairy Cattle - Pee Wee Show Noon to 1 p.m.

Wood Carving Auction 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Lip Sync Contest 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Demolition Derby - Robbo’s Extreme Derby Promotions 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Karaoke Contest 6 to 9 p.m.

Boone Boys 40th Anniversary 6 to 8 p.m.

Demolition Derby - Robbo’s Extreme Derby Promotions

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2021 AREA VISITORS GUIDE

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2021 AREA VISITORS GUIDE

Page 11

Visit the Burpee Museum of Natural History in Rockford Located at 737 N. Main St. Rockford, Burpee Museum has four floors of modern exhibits. Exhibits are specimen based, with strong interactive and educational components.

The first floor is dedicated to paleontology; take a walk through time as your visit exhibits chronicling key times in earth’s history.

The Geoscience exhibit is located on the second floor, where rocks and minerals, fluorescent minerals, and the geology of the region can be found.

Third floor exhibits include the Windows to Wilderness exhibit on Rock River Valley biology and the First People exhibit which introduces visitors to different Native American cultures.

Located in the lower level is the Dean Olson Viewing lab where fossil and biological specimens are prepared for exhibit.

Jane: Diary of a Dinosaur After four years of preparation, Jane is now on display as the centerpiece of a new exhibit at Burpee Museum. Jane: Diary of a Dinosaur. Come discover what happened during the 66 million years she lay buried, visit the expedition’s Montana base camp, and view Jane’s fully restored 21-foot skeleton.

Carboniferous Coal Forest State-of-the-art technology is combined to create a two-story tall prehistoric coal forest. Thrill to the thunder and lightning of a sudden tropical rainstorm as you explore our local landscape, insects and amphibians as they existed 300 million years ago.

The Ordovician Sea What did Rockford look like millions of

world around us. Prepare yourself to look at our environment through a new set of eyes as you explore this hands-on exhibit, encounter live animals and re-discover your own habitat!

Dean Olson Viewing Lab The Dean and Nancy Olson Specimen Viewing Lab is a window into how the Museum works. Located on the lower level, the viewing area’s large glass windows reveal the biology and paleontology laboratories where specimens are prepared for the Museum’s collections and exhibits. Homer, the sub-adult Triceratops is found in and just outside the lab. Burpee Museum maintains more than 60 thousand items in its permanent collection!

Burpee Museum of Natural History is located at 737 N. Main St. Rockford, The Museum features four floors of specimen based exhibits, with strong interactive and educational components.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Visitors Guide

years ago? Here’s a hint: you’d need your bathing suit! Discover the ancient sea that covered this region and see fossils of the critters who called it home long before we did.

Geoscience Visit the second level to learn how our earth was formed and the forces still at work shaping our planet. Included are exhibits on economic, world and regional geology. See extraordinary displays of unusual rocks, gems, and minerals; and information on plate tectonics, land formations, and more.

The First People Your trip through time continues with the history of humankind in North America. The First People features a fullsize wigwam and tipi, an American Bison, and a dugout canoe that you can climb into! Make sure to visit the video kiosk on your way out to learn what it’s like to live in a wigwam, hear Native American stories, and watch a Pow Wow. Windows to Wilderness Focusing on the wildlife of the Rock River Valley, Windows to Wilderness offers a fun, interactive approach to the

Museum Admission General Admission: Adults $10; Children (ages 3–12) $8 Children 3 and under: FREE; Members: FREE Donation Day*: Tuesday (*Additional fees may apply for temporary and traveling exhibits.)

Contact the museum for more information at 815-965-3433 or 815-489-7970.

General public COVID-19 hours Friday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Sunday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Accessibility: Burpee Museum has four floors of accessible exhibits. Visitors using wheelchairs or strollers may be dropped off at the Main Entrance, with free handicapped parking nearby.

Wheelchairs are available free of charge; ask at the front desk inside the lobby.

Rock Cut State Park offers nature at its best Chiseled out of the state’s far northern region is Rock Cut State Park in Winnebago County. Nearby are other “rocky” landmarks - the mighty Rock River and the place where wagons once forded it, Rockford. It’s an area of rolling plains, interesting history and a wide variety of recreational opportunities.

Rock Cut’s 3,092 acres include two lakes: Pierce Lake, with 162 acres, and Olson Lake with 50 acres offer a retreat for people wanting to fish, ice fish or ice skate.

The park’​s hiking trails, horseback riding trails and cross-country skiing and wildlife watching, as well as seasonal hunting programs, make it a year round recreation

destination. The beautiful campground has 270 premium campsites, a rustic cabin, a group camp and shelters, with reservations available through www.reserveamerica.com Rock Cut is home to abundant wildlife with waterfowl, deer, fox, muskrat, woodchuck and beaver, opossum, raccoon and both gray and fox squirrel. Over 100 types of wildflowers offer a showy display each spring and summer, while hardwood trees dazzle visitors each fall.

Rock Cut is an alcohol free park and campground.​​​​​​ 7318 Harlem Road Loves Park IL 61111 815-885-3311

above: Rock Cut State Park offers miles of hiking trails, camping, boating and swimming fun for families. left: Pierce Lake in Rock Cut State Park offers fishing and boating fun.

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