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BOONE COUNTY

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Welcome to the 2016

2 • Thursday, August 4, 2016 / Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair

Boone County Fair Dear Friends of the Fair:

Welcome one and all to the 2016 Boone County Fair. This is our 53rd year at the Route 76 location and we’ve put together six days packed with family fun and adventure. We’re delighted to have the great country artist Martina McBride as our headliner for Saturday evening. We’re trying something new Wednesday evening in front of the grandstand. Illini Pullers are going to be putting on what they call a ‘Shoot Out Challenge” truck pull. Should be something to see and hear. Don’t worry, all your favorite pulls will be taking place all day and evening on Thursday as usual. Cheer on your favorite hometown sweetheart at the best Queen Pageant in the state on Tuesday evening. Next Level Professional Bull Riding is Friday evening with Mutton Bustin’ to start the show. If you haven’t seen

this Friday evening show I highly recommend it. It’s thrilling. It’s funny. It’s downright exciting. A lot like our spectacular Demolition Derby shows on Sunday at l p.m. and 6 p.m. Something new in the livestock barns this year, a Fair Scavenger Hunt. Find the clues, complete the hunt and win a prize. It’s being put on by the Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau. Enjoy our 152 acres of good food, prize winning livestock and exhibits, vendors and merchants of all types, amazing thrill rides for young and old, and of course wonderful entertainment throughout the grounds all day long. The complete schedule is included in this special Fair section. There’s information throughout this section regarding all the different shows and such. And be sure to check out the many exhibits created, raised or grown this year in one of our many departments

Lyle Lee, Fair Assn. President

in both livestock and non-livestock. Please call the fair office with any questions on Mondays or Wednesdays from 8 to 4 at 815-544-2900. Enjoy the fair! Sincerely,

President, Boone County Fair Association

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A little history of the Boone County Fair and what this fair means to Boone County County Fairs are agricultural expositions first established in this country in 1841 when agricultural groups organized the first fairs in Syracuse, NY and Naper Settlement (Naperville, Ill.). Food, both its production and enjoyment, has been the centerpiece of fairs since the beginning. These local exhibitions promoted modern farming which included livestock judging; judging of produce, fruits, flowers, grains and dairy products; exhibits of new agricultural implements and techniques and various contests such as plowing which would eventually become tractor pulling competitions. Harness races would become a very popular part of agricultural fairs from about 1875 and on through the mid 1900s. We still feature harness races at the Boone County Fair. The first county fair in Belvidere was held in 1855 in Big Thunder Park. In 1867, the fair was relocated to what is now Spencer Park, which happened to be the same year the National Grange was founded. The Grange (or Patrons of Husbandry) is the oldest agricultural organization in the United States being founded in 1867 to help organize the farmers after

the Civil War. The Grange today is a family community service organization advocating for agriculture and rural America. There are seven local chapters of the National Grange in Boone County with more than 400 members. Some members of the seven local chapters meet on a county level bi-monthly at what is known as the Boone County Pomona Grange. The Pomona Grange (or County Grange) has its own set of officers and committees. The Pomona Grange took over the operation of the Boone County Fair at what is now Spencer Park and formed the Boone County Fair Association in 1957. After six years of operation, the Pomona Grange found itself with a fair that needed new buildings and more land if it were to grow and succeed. With no prospects or money for either in November of 1962, the Pomona Grange members voted to make the 1963 fair their last one. However, a month or two later, the Taylor sisters came forward with a reasonable offer to sell the Pomona Grange 84 acres on Route 76 about a mile north of Belvidere. A few Grange members came forward and offered their farms as collateral, so the purchase of the land could be

made. Flash forward to 2014 and we have 153 acres with many buildings, barns, and arenas making up Boone County Fairgrounds Park owned and operated by the Granges of Boone County. The four executive officers of the Boone County Fair Association (a 501© (3) organization) are elected by the members of the Pomona Grange and each of the seven local chapters selects four members to be on the fair board. So, as you can see, the Boone County Fair has been a big part of the county for a long time. I can’t speak for all fairs, but at Boone County, we are still a good place to do business with vendors of all types of equipment and supplies for agricultural purposes. However, even urbanites can do business such as buy a car; buy landscaping services, water softeners, a new hat, whatever. Plus, the fair is one large community fundraiser. Nearly every civic organization has a booth or provides a service at the fair to raise money. The 4-H clubs, the Lions, Cosmos, Boy Scouts, church groups, county fire departments, and yes, even the Granges are all here raising money for their various projects for the community. However, the centerpiece is still the livestock and non-

livestock (home, arts, fruits, vegetables, flowers, grains, and more). We will have about 3,000 head of livestock, everything from rabbits to draft horses and 6,000 non-livestock entries, everything from quilts to corn to cakes to photos. Our superintendents do an outstanding job promoting participation in their various departments. For the 4-H members, it’s a chance to show their talents, to learn to carry through on a project, to learn to raise and care for an animal and to show that animal and have the animal and themselves judged for their showmanship abilities. Plus, it’s a place where people from the city can learn about agriculture. They can see a cow being milked, a chick being hatched, a sheep being sheared, and a team of six draft horses being hitched to a wagon. It’s all up close and personal, and they can ask the farmer or rancher questions. The farmer or rancher will be more than happy to answer. It’s probably more important than ever that people understand where their food comes from and how it’s raised; a place where you can see agriculture in action, firsthand. The Boone County Fair is also a grand social event, a once a year six day community family reunion, where you can just go

and sit and see old friends and make new ones. Of course, we like to have some fun too. There is plenty of free entertainment all through the park all day long and some thrill rides and games if that’s your thing. Plus, some great grandstand shows for a night out with your friends. We’ve been very fortunate in Boone County to have such a successful county fair. Plus, the fairgrounds is a great asset to the community as a venue for almost any event from weddings, to concerts, to flea markets and swap meets, to auctions and a place to store your boat or camper for the winter. The fairground’s has something going on almost every weekend from April 1 to Nov. 1. This fair exists because of the hard work, the sweat and sacrifice of hundreds upon hundreds of volunteers who strived since 1957 to make the Boone County Fair the best in Illinois; a fair we can all be proud of. The bottom line is you don’t have to be a farmer or a rancher to be interested in agriculture or county fairs or to even be a member of the Grange. As long as we all eat food, we are all interested in agriculture, and a good place to eat food is the county fair or a Grange potluck.

Fair History Timeline: 1855

Boone County Agricultural Society formed to organize the first Boone County Fair Allen C Fuller was principal organizer Area of flat land north of the courthouse was purchased First fair was held October 25th & 26th Stock was exhibited & admission was free Domestic articles & manufactured wares were to be exhibited at Union Hall Thursdays attendance was approx. 3000 and Friday was approx. 5000 50 Horse entries in addition to mares and colts Local talent performed in the evening at Union Hall

1957 Granges took over fair operations under the management of Pomona Grange

1963 Last fair to be held at old Fairgrounds (Spencer Park) 84 acres purchased on Rt 76 for a third Fairgrounds

1964 First fair to be held at current location

1965 Cattle barn & grandstand (minus roof) were added

1966 Dairy barn was added

1863-1865 No fairs were held during the Civil War

1967 Hog barn was added

1867 Old fairgrounds was sold (by courthouse) for $675 Land purchased at west end of Lincoln Ave for $1200.00 (now Spencer Park) Racetrack and judges stand were built

1968 Sheep barn was added

1970 Home Economics building was added

1877 Fair had 1048 entries

1972 Two additional buildings were added

1906 Belvidere Amphitheatre Company formed to erect the Amphitheatre as fair association felt they couldn’t pay to have it built. A group of men paid $1200.00

1981 Large horse barn & grandstand roof added

1991 17 additional acres were acquired for a total of 101 acres

1911 Fair association now owns grandstand

1993 52 more acres were acquired for a total of 153 acres

1913 Season pass cost $1.25 and covered man and wife~~season pass for children 6-12 cost .25

1994 Beaver Valley Grange Hall was moved to the Fairgrounds-it was founded in 1916

1925 New entrance complete-located about 1000 feet east of the former gate

1999 Goat barn was added

1931 Adams Rodeo added to lineup and replaced harness racing

2005 Swine building was extended and many new cement sidewalks were added

1945 Fair cancelled in an effort to reduce infantile paralysis epidemic

2013 50th Anniversary at Route 76 location!

4 • Thursday, August 4, 2016 / Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair

Boone County Fair schedule is jam-packed with activities for 2016 The Boone County Fair schedule is full of family fun Tuesday, Aug. 9 through Sunday, Aug. 14. The Non-Livestock Building will be closed for judging.

Tuesday, Aug. 9

will be held at the Entertainment Pavilion from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Swine weigh-ins Jr. and Open Shows will take place at the Swine Barn from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The Real Beal’s One Man Band will perform at the Grandstand at 6:30 p.m. Admission to the show is free. Dale Rhode and the Crossroads Band will perform at the Entertainment Pavilion from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. The Queen Pageant and Little Miss Pageant will occur at the Grandstand at 7:30 p.m. This event is free to the public. This event is sponsored by Byron Bank.

Admission is $5 for the opening day of the fair. Or, if fairgoers have a merchant pass they can get in for free until 4 p.m. Merchant passes are available at various Boone County organizations and businesses. However, passes are limited. The 4-H Poultry Show will begin in the Poultry Building at 7:30 a.m. The 4-H Horse Show will begin in the Outdoor Horse Arena at 8:30 a.m. The Flag Raising commemo- Wednesday, Aug. 10 rating the opening of the 2016 Admission to the fair is $6. Boone County Fair will occur The Non-Livestock Building at noon at the Grandstand. The will be open from 10 a.m. to VFW Color Guard will per- 9:30 p.m. Skinners Amusements form the ceremony. Harness and Colt Racing reduced rides will be held from will begin after the Flag Rais- noon to 5 p.m. ing event at the Grandstand at The day will begin with the noon. This event is free. Open Junior Poultry and Open Skip-N-A-Beat will perform Rabbit Shows at 8 a.m. in the Livestock at theOnly Entertainment Butitta familyPavilion owned repair facility inBuilding. Boone County. The 4-H Carcass and Purefrom noon to 2 p.m. The M Bros. Variety Show bred Swine Shows will occur

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in the Swine Barn at 8:30 a.m. The 4-H Sheep and 4-H Horse Shows will occur in the Livestock Buildings at 9 a.m. Alpine Bank’s Kids Day Games will begin at 10 a.m. at the Gazebo Park behind Exhibit Hall Three. Children can compete in sack races, balloon blowing, bubble gum chewing, egg toss, and watermelon eating challenges. Trophies and prizes will be awarded to the top three winners in each category. These games are for children 8-years-old and younger. Registration for the games will begin at 9 a.m. and the games will run from 10 a.m. to noon. This event is free. Harness and Colt Racing will start back up at noon at the Grandstand. This event has free entry. Chip Messiner One-Man Country Band of 98.5 will perform from noon to 3 p.m. at the Entertainment Pavilion. In breaks, games for 15-year-olds and older will occur, including: watermelon eating and spitting contest, Twinkie eating contest, bubble gum blowing contest, and soda drinking contest. First place winners will receive $15, second will receive $10, and third will receive $5. Arnie Pearse will host this event. Dairy VIP Classes will compete in the Dairy Arena at 1 p.m. The 4-H Dairy Steer Show will commence at 3 p.m. in the Livestock Arena. The Pony Team Driving and Obstacle Course will take place at 3 p.m. in the Outside Horse Arena. The Pony, Mule, and Horse Team Driving Obstacle Course will go from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Outside Horse Arena. The 4-H Beef Carcass Show will start at 4 p.m. in the Livestock Arena. Country music performer Woody James will have a set at the Entertainment Pavilion

from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. The Antique Tractor Parade will be held at 5 p.m. at the Grandstand. This event is free. The 4-H Rabbit Show will start at 6 p.m. in the Livestock Show Arena. The Team Feed Race will start at 6 p.m. at the Outside Horse Arena. The Diesel Truck Shoot-Out Challenge Plus More will be the highlighted Grandstand show at 6:30 p.m. Admission is $7. Looking For Treble will perform at the Entertainment Pavilion from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Thursday, Aug. 11

Thursday is Senior Citizen’s Day where seniors 65-yearsold and older get in the fair for free. Skinners reduced rides will be from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Non-Livestock Building will be open from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. The 4-H Goat Show will kick things off Thursday morning at 8 a.m. in the Goat Show Arena. The 4-H Crossbreed Swine Show will start at 8:30 a.m. in the Swine Barn. The 4-H Dairy and Beef Show, Pony Classes, Junior Sheep Show will start at 9 a.m. in the Livestock Buildings. Alpine Bank’s Kids Day Games will begin at 10 a.m. at the Gazebo Park behind Exhibit Hall Three. Children can compete in sack races, balloon blowing, bubble gum chewing, egg toss, and watermelon eating challenges. Trophies and prizes will be awarded to the top three winners in each category. These games are for children 8-years-old and younger. Registration for the games will begin at 9 a.m. and the games will run from 10 a.m. to noon. This event is free. The Tractor/Truck Pulls will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Grandstand. Admission

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is $5. Gene Shepherd Band will perform on the grounds from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Music by Hallie will perform at the Entertainment Pavilion from noon to 2 p.m. The Junior Dairy Goat Show will be held in the Goat Show Arena at 1 p.m. The Matthew Windrow Band will perform old-polka-style country music from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Junior Draft Horses Performance Classes will be held at 4 p.m. in the Outside Horse Arena. The 4-H Livestock Auction will begin at 5 p.m. in the Livestock Arena. This event is free to attend. Taking over from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Entertainment Pavilion will be Kevin Burns and the Good Vibrations. Coinciding with the music for the evening will be the Mother/ Daughter Look-A-Like Contest and the Father/Son LookA-Like Contest. The Mother/ Daughter contest will be held at 5:30 p.m. The Father/Son Contest will be held at 7:30 p.m. First place winners will receive $25, second place will receive $20, and third place will receive $15. Past winners are not eligible to compete. Arnie Pearse will host these events. The Pony Olympics will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Pony Arena. The Draft Horse Wagon Hitch Classes (starting with six horse hitch) will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Outside Horse Arena. The Illini State Pullers will perform their Tri-County Mini Rods/Semi’s show at 6:30 p.m. in the Grandstand. Admission is $10.

Friday, Aug. 12

The Non-Livestock Building will be open from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. The Diary Goat Show will begin Friday’s events with their Open Classes at 8 a.m. in the Goat Show Arena. The Junior Market Barrow Show will begin at 8:30 a.m. in the Swine Barn. The Open Sheep, Dairy, and Beef Shows plus Junior Dairy and Beef Shows will start at 9 a.m. in the Livestock Building. The Draft Horse Halter Show will begin at 9 a.m. in the Inside Horse Arena. The Pony Halter and Performance Classes will begin at 9 a.m. in the Pony Arena. The ATV 4-Wheeler Racing Continued on next page

• FAIR SCHEDULE will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Grandstand. This event is free. Laura Rae and the Backroads Trio will perform at the Entertainment Building from noon to 3 p.m. The Mutton Bustin’ Qualifications will be held at 1:30 p.m. in the Grandstand. Admission is free. The event will feature children 4-years-old to 9-years-old and less than 50 pounds competing for a slot in the show. The top 20 will move on to the 7 p.m. show. Sign-up for the qualifications trial will begin at 1 p.m. at the judges stand. Magic by Herb Rosene will occur at the Entertainment Pavilion from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mary Lee’s School of Dance will perform at the Entertainment Building from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. The Open Wether Show will begin in the Sheep Barn at 6:30 p.m. The Next Level Pro-Bull Riding show will be held at 7 p.m. in the Grandstand. Admission is $10. Silver Creek Band will perform from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Entertainment Pavilion.

Saturday, Aug. 13

The Non-Livestock Building will be open from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. The Garden and Antique Tractor Pulls will begin at 8 a.m. at the Grandstand. Admission is free. The Open Sheep Show will begin at 9 a.m. in the Sheep Barn. The Open and Junior Steer and Dairy (Holstein) Judging will occur at 9 a.m. in the Live-

Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair / Thursday, August 4, 2016 • 5

(Continued from previous page)

stock Show Arena. The Pony Performance and Hitch Classes will occur at 9 a.m. in the Pony Arena. The Draft Horse Wagon Hitch Judging (starting with six horse hitch) will begin at 10 a.m. in the Outside Horse Arena. This event is sponsored by Byron Bank. The Amateur Talent Contest Sign Up will open up to junior performers’ 14-years-old and younger and senior performers’ 15-years-old to 21-years-old at 9:30 a.m. at the Entertainment Pavilion. This event has free admission for performers and watchers. The Junior Talent Contest will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the Entertainment Pavilion. This event has free admission. The Senior Talent Contest will begin at 12:30 p.m. at the Entertainment Pavilion. This event has free admission. First place winners will receive $100. Second place winners will receive $75. Third place winners will receive $50. The Pony Hitch Classes will begin at 1 p.m. in the Pony Arena. The Supreme Grand Champion Dairy will be selected at 2 p.m. in the Dairy Arena. The Fur, Feather, and Wether Auction will begin at 3 p.m. in the Livestock Arena. The Tae Kwon Do Demonstrations will begin in Gazebo Park, located behind Exhibit Hall Three at 4 p.m. The Karate Academy will perform at the Entertainment Pavilion from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Gene Shepherd Band will perform on the grounds from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Celia’s Dance and Education Center will perform at the

Entertainment Pavilion from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Missing Links will perform at the Entertainment Building from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. The Martina McBride Concert will begin at 8 p.m. in the Grandstand/Track. Admission is $25.

Sunday, Aug. 14

The Non-Livestock Building will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A church service will be conducted at the Entertainment Building from 9a.m. to 10 a.m. The service will be conducted by Gideon’s International. The Junior Dairy Cattle Pee Wee Show will begin in the Dairy Arena at 10 a.m. The Pedal Pushers Pull will be in the Livestock Arena at 10 a.m. This event is free. This event is sponsored by A.R. Henninger Agency. The Wood Carvings Auction will start at noon at Big Thunder Road. The Demolition Derby will have two shows. The first show will start at 1 p.m., and the second show will begin at 6 p.m. at the Grandstand. Tickets are $10 per show. Derby Icons L.L.C. will host the Bone Stock Classes, Heats, and Features. First place receives $2,000; second place receives $1,000; and third through fifth place receives $500. The Boone County resident with the highest placement receives $1,000. Fairgoers can compete in a Lip Sync Contest from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. or a Karaoke Contest from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Entertainment Pavilion. First place will

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General Information

The Boone County Fairgrounds is located one mile north of Belvidere at 8791 Illinois Route 76. The Grange Food Complex is located down the center aisle between Gate One and the Grandstand. The CME Group Commodity Carnival will have a booth teaching youth the impor-

tance of continued agriculture through their “Risk Ranch” app. They will be at their booth on the grounds Tuesday, Aug. 9 through Sunday, Aug. 14. For more information, go to www.boonecountyfair.com or call the fair office Monday or Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at (815) 544-2900.

Strolling acts on the Grounds

Magic Mike will perform Wednesday through Sunday on the grounds. The Real Beal’s One Man Band will perform every day on the grounds.

2017 Boone County Fair

The 2017 Boone County Fair will be held from Tuesday, Aug. 8 through Sunday, Aug. 13.

Enjoy the Boone County Fair!

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6 • Thursday, August 4, 2016 / Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair

Ethical showmanship codes for Boone County Fair The International Association of Fairs and Expositions created a National Code of Show Ring Ethics that performers, showmen, and showwomen should adhere to at the Boone County Fair. The National Code of Show Ring Ethics is as follows: Exhibitors of animals at livestock shows shall at all times deport themselves with honesty and good sportsmanship. Their conduct in this competitive environment shall always reflect the highest standards of honor and dignity to promote the advancement of agricultural education. This code applies to junior as well as open class exhibitors who compete in structured classes of competition. This code applies to all livestock offered in any event at a livestock show. In addition to the IAFE National Code of Show Ring Ethics, fairs and livestock shows may have rules and regulations, which they impose on the local, county, state, provincial, and national levels. All youth leaders working with junior exhibitors are under an affirmative responsibility to do more than avoid improper conduct or questionable acts. Their moral values must be so certain and positive that those younger and more pliable will be influenced by their fine example. Owners, exhibitors, fitters, trainers, and absolutely responsible persons who violate the code of ethics will forfeit premiums, awards, and auction proceeds and shall be prohibited from future exhibition in accordance with the rules adopted by the respective fairs and livestock shows. Exhibitors who violate this code of ethics demean the integrity of all livestock exhibitors and should be prohibited from competition at all livestock shows in the United States and Canada. The following is a list of guidelines for all exhibitors and all live-

stock in competitive events: All exhibitors must present, upon request of fair and livestock show officials, proof of ownership, length of ownership and age of all animals entered. Misrepresentation of ownership, age, or any facts relating thereto is prohibited. Owners, exhibitors, fitters, trainers, or absolutely responsible persons shall provide animal health certificates from licensed veterinarians upon request by fair or livestock show officials. Junior exhibitors are expected to care for and groom their animals while at fairs or livestock shows. Animals shall be presented to show events where they ill enter the food chain free of violative drug residues. The act of entering an animal in a livestock show is the giving of consent by the owner, exhibitor, fitter, trainer and/or absolutely responsible person for show management to obtain any specimens of urine, saliva, blood, or other substances from the animal to be used in testing. Animals not entered in an event, which culminates with the animal entering the food chain shall not be administered drugs other than in accordance with applicable federal, state, and provincial statutes, regulations, and rules. Livestock shall not be exhibited i9n the drugs administered in accordance with federal, state, and provincial statutes, regulations, and rules affect the animal(s) performance or appearance at the event. If the laboratory report on the analysis of saliva, urine, blood, or other sample taken from livestock indicates the presence of forbidden drugs or medication, this shall be prima facie evidences such substance has been administered to the animal either internal or externally. It is presumed that the sample of urine, saliva, blood, or other substance tested by the laboratory to which it is sent is the one taken from the animal in question, its integrity is 210854

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preserved and all procedures of said collection and preservation, transfer to the laboratory and analysis or the sample are correct and accurate and the report received from the laboratory pertains to the sample taken from the animal in question and correctly reflects the condition of the animal at the time the sample was taken, with the burden on the owner, exhibitor, fitter, trainer, or absolutely responsible person to prove otherwise. At any time after an animal arrives on the fair or livestock show premises, all treatments involving the use of drugs and/or medications for the sole purpose of protecting the health of the animal shall be administered by a licensed veterinarian. Any surgical procedure or injection of any foreign substance or drug or the external application of any substance (irritant, counterirritant, or similar substance) which could affect the animal(s) performance or alter its natural contour, confirmation, or appearance, except external applications of substances to the hoofs or horns of animals which affect appearances only and except for surgical procedures performed by a duly licensed veterinarian for the sole purpose of protecting the health of the animal, is prohibited. The use of showing and/or handling practices or devices such as

striking animals to cause swelling, using electrical contrivance, or other similar practice are not acceptable and are prohibited. Direct criticism or interference with the judge, fair or livestock show management, other exhibitors, breed representatives, or show officials before, during, or after the competitive event is prohibited. In the furtherance of the official duty, all judges, fair and livestock show management, or other show officials shall be treated with courtesy, cooperation, and respect and no person shall direct abusive or threatening conduct toward them. No owner, exhibitor, fitter, trainer, or absolutely responsible person shall conspire with another person or persons to intentionally violate this code of ethics or knowingly contribute or cooperate with another person or persons either by affirmative action or inaction to violate this code of ethics. Violation of this rule shall subject such individual to disciplinary action. The application of this code of ethics provides for absolute responsibility for an animal(s) condition by an owner, exhibitor, fitter, trainer, or participant whether or not he or she was actually instrumental in or had actual knowledge of the treatment of the animal in contravention of this code of ethics.

The act of entering an animal is the giving of consent by the owner, exhibitor, fitter, trainer, or absolutely responsible person to have disciplinary action taken by the fair or livestock show for violation of this Code of Show Ring Ethics and any other rules of competition of the fair or livestock show without recourse against the fair or livestock show. The act of entering an animal is the giving of consent that any proceedings or disciplinary action taken by the fair or livestock show may be published with the name of the violator or violators in any publication of International Association of Fairs and Expositions, including Fairs and Expositions and any special notice to members. The act of entering of an animal in a fair or livestock show is giving of verification by the owner, exhibitor, fitter, trainer, or absolutely responsible person that he or she has read the IAFE National Code of Show Ring Ethics and understands the consequences of and penalties provided for actions prohibited by the code. It is further consent that any action which contravenes the rules and also is in violation of federal, state, provincial statutes, regulations, or rules may be released to appropriate law enforcement authorities with jurisdiction over such infractions.

Martina McBride will perform at Boone County Fair Martina McBride is coming to the 2016 Boone County Fair to perform her concert “An Evening with Martina McBride.” The concert will feature the latest songs from her newly released album: “Reckless.” Plus, she will include other hits, such as: “A Broken Wing,” “This One’s for the Girls,” and “I’m Gonna Love You Through It.” Martina McBride is a four-time CMA Female Vocalist of the Year. She has received multiple Grammy nominations. The concert will be held at the Grandstand on Saturday, Aug. 13 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person for reserved Grandstand or track seats. To purchase tickets for the concert or for any other grandstand show, visit the Fair Ticket Office at Gate One at the Boone County Fairgrounds. Or, call (815) 547-4503 during ticket office hours. Ticket office hours are Monday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday: 9 a.m. to noon. The Boone County Fairgrounds are located one mile north of Belvidere at 8791 Route 76. For more information, go to www. boonecountyfair.com. COURTESY PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Country Great Martina McBride will perform Saturday Aug. 13 at 8 p.m. in front of the Grandstand at the 2016 Boone County Fair in Belvidere. Tickets are $25.

Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair / Thursday, August 4, 2016 • 7

Karate Academy, Main Street Players of Boone County to perform at Boone County Fair By Matt Helm REPORTER

Students from the Karate Academy will show off their Tae Kwon Do moves at the Boone County Fair on Saturday, Aug. 13 at the Entertainment Pavilion from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. “We are going to demonstrate many of the skills we learn in class, including kicks, board breaking, and a little bit of controlled sparring,” Grand Master, Head Instructor, and Seventh Degree Black Belt at the Karate Academy Keith Burritt said. The demonstration will feature students 6-years-old and older. The Karate Academy has performed at the fair for several years. “The Karate Academy is definitely something you should come check out,” Burritt said. “We hold our classes at the Belvidere Family YMCA and offer a great value compared to some other schools in the area.” The Karate Academy will share their time at the Entertainment Pavilion with the Mainstreet Players of Boone County. Keith Burritt is also President of the

Mainstreet Players. “We are the oldest theater group in Boone County, we started in 1994,” Burritt said. “We are going to bring our improv group out, featuring five or six performers.” The improv group will perform short scenes as well as improv games. “There’s nothing set in place,” Burritt said. “We do a little improv scene about the hectic things that happen before a play, which is a crowd favorite.” The Karate Academy will take the stage for the first half hour, followed by the Mainstreet Players. “People enjoy live entertainment and we really provide some of the best entertainment around,” Burritt said. “We’ve been around for 22 years but not many people know about us. We are the best kept secret in Belvidere.” Burritt encourages people to check out the rest of what the Boone County Fair has to offer. “I hope everybody comes out and enjoys the fair,” Burritt said. “It’s one of the top fairs as far as reputation goes in northern Illinois.”

KEITH BURRITT PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

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The Karate Academy will perform tae kwon do demonstrations at the Boone County Fair from 4 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 13. They will perform at the Entertainment Pavilion.

The Main Street Players of Boone County will perform an improv set at the Boone County Fair on Saturday, Aug. 13. The improv show will take place at the Entertainment Pavilion from 4:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Boone County Fair hosts tractor pull By Ryan Morey

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You won’t want to miss this year’s truck and tractor pull on Thursday, Aug. 1 at the Boone County Fair in Belvidere. The pulls have become a long running tradition at the county fairs. They run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The morning and afternoon show will feature a variety of farm tractors and 4-wheel drive trucks. The evening show features highly modified vehicles such as super stock 4-wheel drive trucks, pro stock diesel trucks, light super stock tractors, mini-rods and even a local semi class to round out the show. Each one pushed to the very limits of destruction in hopes to bring home first place. The Boone County Fair Board along with Illini State Pullers and Tri-County Pullers Inc. all partner

together to put on a heart pumping experience for all ages. Come out on Thursday, Aug. 11 to cheer on your friends and family as they try to drop the hammer on their competition. For more information on this

and other events for the 2016 Boone County Fair, please visit: www.boonecountyfair.com. For more information on the pulls, visit: www.illinistatepullers.com or www.tricountypullersinc.com. See you at the fair!

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Real Beal’s One Man Band returns for another fair Wishing you & your family a great time at the fair! Real Beal’s One Man Band will The couple now travels across the once again be at the Boone County Fair sharing his musical expertise with fairgoers walking the grounds. Real Beal’s One Man Band is comprised of Jeff Beal and his wife Nancy who will occasionally accompany her husband’s band. Jeff will entertain crowds with his wide variety of instruments from his vocal talents to the guitar, the kick drum, and snare drum.

United States performing in festivals, venues, and fairs. The band covers a wide variety of music from pop to country with favorites like Johnny Cash to LynyrdSkynyrd. They also will include some modern day hits from pop singers like Celine Dion to Adele. If you want to see one man and one woman do it all, head out to the 2016 Boone County Fair.

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Boone County Fair offers free attractions The Boone County Fair offers many wonderful attractions and prides itself in offering many of those shows for free. The free shows include: Alpine Bank’s Kids Days, Mr. D’s Amazing House of Magic and Illusion, The Royal Bengal Tiger Show, The Great American Duck Race, The Real Beal’s One Man Band, The Whip Guy, Magic Mike, Zolis’ Wood Carving, Antique Tractor and Gas Engines Display, The 4-H Wee Farm Petting Zoo, The Flaming Monkeys 4-H Robotics Club Demos, The Restored One Room Schoolhouse, The Boone County Granges Museum, the 4-H Livestock Auction, the 4-H Fur, Feather, and Wether Auction, and the Gene Shepherd Band. Alpine Bank’s Kids Day Games will begin at 10 a.m. at the Gazebo Park behind Exhibit Hall Three on Wednesday and Thursday. Children can compete in sack races, balloon blowing, bubble gum chewing, egg toss, and watermelon eating challenges. Trophies and prizes will be

awarded to the top three winners in each category. These games are for children 8-years-old and younger. Registration for the games will begin at 9 a.m. and the games will run from 10 a.m. to noon. This event is free. Mr. D’s Amazing House of Magic and Illusion will be a magic show set out of Mr. D’s 1945 Chevrolet truck. Mr. D will be located in the shade by the Gazebo behind the Commercial Exhibit Hall #3. He will perform Tuesday through Friday at noon, 2 p.m., 5 p.m., and 7 p.m.; Saturday at 3 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 7 p.m., and 8:30 p.m.; and Sunday at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. Brunon Blaszak’s Royal Bengal Tiger Show will feature Ada Smieya Blaszak and her son Brunon Blaszak performing death-defying tricks with their Bengal tigers. The show will take place at the southeast corner of County Line Road and Big Thunder Road in the fairgrounds. On Tuesday, they will perform at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.; Wednesday through Saturday, they will perform

at 2 p.m., 4 p.m., and 6 p.m.; and Sunday they will perform at noon at 4 p.m. The Great American Duck Race will allow audience members to pick a duck and have them compete to see who can get to the finish line first. The show will be held on the south side of the Non-Livestock Building. It will occur Tuesday through Thursday at 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 6 p.m., and 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday at 10 a.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m., and 7 p.m.; and Sunday at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. The Real Beal’s One Man Band features Jeff Beal and his wife Nancy singing and playing multiple instruments on the grounds. The Whip Guy will perform his cowboy and lasso routine, as seen on television in the hit reality show, America’s Got Talent. He will move around the grounds quite frequently. On Wednesday, he will be at the Outside Horse Arena at 6 p.m. On Thursday, he will perform at the Pony Arena at noon, at the Gazebo near the Wee Farm at 3 p.m., and

Boone County Drug Prevention Coalition shares wisdom at Boone County Fair By Kathryn Menue EDITOR

The Boone County Drug Prevention Coalition (BCDPC) will be at the Boone County Fair all week, Tuesday, Aug. 9 through Sunday, Aug. 14. The coalition will be in the main building at the fairgrounds, located right inside the entryway of the fairgrounds at the Route 76 entrance. The coalition will have members at the information table every day of the fair from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., expect Sunday. The coalition booth will be open Sunday, Aug. 14 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The BCDPC also will have an interactive booth at the Boone County Fair from Tuesday, Aug. 9 through Sunday, Aug. 14. The interactive display will be located beside their information table in the main hall. The interactive display will be a “hidden in plain sight” mock up of a teenager’s bedroom where fairgoers can walk through the exhibit and try to find all of the indicators of a teenage drug user/underage drinker/smoker. Volunteers from the coalition

will be present to assist with the “hidden in plain sight” display and to answer any questions visitors may have about the BCDPC. Coalition members also will be there to answer questions about underage drinking, drug use, smoking, and any other concerns adults, parents, teens, or children may have related to the above topics. In accordance with the interactive display, the Boone County Drug Prevention Coalition will sell tickets for their Flapjack Fundraiser breakfast. The fundraiser will be held on Saturday, Sept. 17 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Applebee’s Restaurant, located at 2126 Gateway Center Dr. in Belvidere. The Flapjack Fundraiser will assist the BCDPC raise money for their organization, will help bring awareness of the drug/alcohol/smoking problems in Boone County, and will aid community members in seeing how they can get involved in the fight to end drug use, smoking, and underage drinking in Boone County. About the Boone County Drug Prevention Coalition The coalition is a nonprofit

at the Outside Horse Arena at 6 p.m. On Friday, The Whip Guy will perform at the Outside Horse Arena at noon, the Gazebo near the Wee Farm at 3 p.m., and the Pony Arena at 6 p.m. On Saturday, The Whip Guy will perform at the Outside Horse Arena at noon. Magic Mike, no not the movie, will perform his magical hypnotism routine at the Boone County Fair. Zolis’ Wood Carving will carve wood masterpieces and will be selling them at the fair. The wood carving station will be located at Prairie Road, near Gate 2. Zolis’ will have wood carving demonstrations Wednesday through Saturday at 11 a.m., 2 p.m., and 5 p.m. The auction will be held Sunday at noon. The Antique Tractor and Gas Engines Display will have tractors and engines both new and old for fairgoers to admire. The 4-H Wee Farm Petting Zoo will provide children with the chance to interact with farm animals in the pens at the fair. The farm will be located behind the Commercial Exhibit Hall #3 building. It will open every day at 10 a.m. The Flaming Monkeys 4-H

Robotics Club will demonstrate their competition robots. They will be located in the Stem Tent. They will have shows Tuesday through Saturday at 11 a.m., 3 p.m., and 6 p.m.; and on Sunday at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. The Restored One Room Schoolhouse will take fairgoers back in time as they explore the history of Reed Schoolhouse. The Schoolhouse is located south of the Grandstand and will be open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Boone County Granges will offer history, food, and more at the Boone County Fair. The Granges will be open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., except for Sunday where they will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Grange is located east of the Non-Livestock Building. The 4-H Livestock Auction will take place in the Livestock Arena at 6 p.m. on Thursday. The Fur, Feather, and Wether Auction will take place on Saturday at 3 p.m. The Gene Shepherd Band will perform on the grounds on Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for all who live or work in Boone County, by promoting a lifestyle free from the abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. The mission of the Boone County Drug Prevention Coalition is to use a community approach to reduce and prevent the use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. Their vision is to create a safe and healthy environment where youth feel empowered to make positive decisions concerning alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use. The BCDPC was established in 2013 as a product of a grant received by Rosecrance. The coalition is comprised of local law enforcement, government agencies, youth-serving organizations, businesses, churches, parents, youth, and many others. The Boone County Drug Prevention Coalition meets on the first Monday of every month at the Boone County Health Department, located at 1204 Logan Ave. in Belvidere. The meetings are held from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, please visit: http://bcdpc.weebly.com/ about.html.

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Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair / Thursday, August 4, 2016 • 9

Historic Reed Schoolhouse will be open for Boone County Fair REPORTER

It’s a place where, to an extent, time has stood still. Much of what students saw every day from the late 1800s until the mid-1950s is inside for everyone to see. Of course, the schoolhouse only is open to the public once a year – during the county fair – and that time is almost here. Doors will open Tuesday morning, Aug. 9 and remain open through the afternoon of Sunday, Aug. 14. The fair runs those six days with most everything anyone could hope to experience. Animal shows and competitions, carnival rides, top-notch evening and daytime entertainment, along with a midway that has all kinds of food to eat. In the midst of all that activity, the old schoolhouse is a place where the young, the old, and the in-between can pause for a moment and reflect on those simpler days. Quite often, volunteers are dressed in period clothing as they talk about education as it was in another time. One never knows when a former school teacher will drop to share their recollections. There are no scheduled performances, and there is no admission charge. Sadly, nothing original to the old Reed School remains, but it’s filled with period furnishings, and contributions from numerous Boone County residents and organizations, which give visitors a glimpse of the place where students once received their educa-

tion. Desks were a gift from Belvidere Community Unit School District 100; the stove came out of an old school elsewhere in the county. It was a teacher’s job in those days to be certain the stove was heating the classroom when children arrived. Also, inside is a piano from the Avery School in Flora Township. It was used by Avie Shattuck, whose maiden name was Humphrey, when she taught there from 1911 to 1917. Henry Avery built that school in 1852. Unfortunately, that school no longer stands. Likewise, the blackboard is a relic from another school. The late Merle Huntington donated the old outhouse in back that once stood on his property. Jack and Laura Ratcliffe found the school bell while visiting Wisconsin. She said the bell original to Reed School could not be found. George Reed donated the land for the school bearing his name in 1880, and it was built along Davis Road. Classes were held there until 1943, about 12 years before consolidation, when one-room schoolhouses were on the way out. Verna Magnuson donated the school to the Pomona Grange in memory of her husband, George, and her grandson, Preston. It was brought to the fairgrounds in the spring of 1976, as a Bicentennial project of the Pomona Grange. The building had to be moved 15 miles and once at the fairgrounds, not far from the grandstand, it collapsed and had to be put back together again.

COURTESY PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

The Original Reeds Crossing Restored One Room Schoolhouse will be open every day during the 2016 Boone County Fair from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The schoolhouse was moved to the fairgrounds in 1976 as a bicentennial project.

“The walls busted out and all that was left was the flooring,” Jack Ratcliffe said in a previous interview. There was some urgency to relocate the schoolhouse. It was on a farm at the time and the landowners wanted it gone by spring plant-

Free on grounds suggestions for success Free - On - Grounds attractions have gained widespread acceptance as an inexpensive way to promote your event and provide your patrons with an exciting variety of entertainment. As you may have already experienced, these types of acts have gained in popularity in recent years and continue to draw larger and larger crowds to the fair. We have a wide variety of acts to fit every budget need in almost every category of free on grounds. If you are considering booking a free on grounds act, we would ask you to consider the following points in order to get the most entertainment value from these types of acts. Include publicity on the free on grounds acts in all your marketing outlets (internet, print, television, social media advertising, etc.). Once the act has arrived at your venue and is set up, invite the local newspaper or television station to do an article or spot on the acts. This is especially true of the larger spectacular animal and thrill acts. An article on the front page of the newspaper can go a long way to promote your fair and draw in crowds. The best thing is it is usually free publicity. Make sure the location of the

free on grounds acts is posted throughout the fairgrounds along with the show times. Frequent announcements over the public address system also add emphasis to the importance of free on grounds entertainment. Make sure you have adequate seating, especially for your spectaculars such as the animals. You want people to be able to see what is happening. If people are standing eight to ten deep at ground level, they only see a small portion of the entire show. Bleacher seating works best. Getting people seated at different levels gets more people involved in the show and everyone goes away with a good feeling. Word of mouth from satisfied

fair goers can do wonders for your attendance at the fair and at the free on grounds attraction. Many fairs already have bleachers available for the free on grounds area. Other fairs have been able to borrow bleacher seating for fair week from different places in their local community (Schools, Parks, Athletic Complexes, etc). Don’t lose the opportunity these acts can provide you by not having enough seating. We are ready to help you make the free on grounds experience the best it can be for your fair. We welcome other ideas you may have tried that proved effective in using free on grounds entertainment to increase fair attendance.

ing. If it wasn’t moved, it would have been torn down. Moving the building took several hours, and there were a number of obstacles in the way, such as bridges and phone lines. Pomona Grange, which oversees the seven Grange organizations in the county, took on the schoolhouse project as part of its mission to encourage education among people. Reed school fit the bill in that is showed the importance of education and how children learned in a one-room building. There aren’t many such schools left in the county.

Some, such as the one at Stone Quarry and Graham Roads, have become private homes. The old Stone School, built in 1850, was saved from demolition. It stands next to the Spring Township office on Shattuck Road. A replica of the one-room Dawson River School stands in the historic area at the Boone County Conservation District off of S. Appleton Road in Belvidere. Photographs of the original school were used to be certain the 20-by-24-foot copy was accurate. The original Dawson River Road school bell sits atop the building.

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10 • Thursday, August 4, 2016 / Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair

Each day of Boone County Fair has horse events

The Boone County Fair will be home to many animal shows in 2016, with horse shows and events being one of the top attractions. All of the horse events listed below are free. Tuesday, Aug. 9 At 8:30 a.m., the 4-H Horse Show will kick-off the fair at the Outdoor Horse Arena. At noon, Harness and Colt Racing will begin at the Grandstand. At 6:30 p.m., Ranch Sorting will start in the Pony Arena. Wednesday, Aug. 10 At 9 a.m., the 4-H Horse Show will begin in the Pony Arena. This will include the speed event and the trail dressage. At noon, Harness and Colt racing will pick back up at the Grandstand. The Pony Team Driving Obstacle Course will occur at 3 p.m. at the Outdoor Horse Arena. At 4 p.m., the Mules Team Driving Obstacle Course will begin in the Outdoor Horse Arena. At 5 p.m., the Horses (draft and light) Obstacle Course will start at the Outdoor Horse Arena.

Team Feed Racing will begin at 6 p.m. at the Outdoor Horse Arena. Thursday, Aug. 11 Pony Classes will start at 9 a.m. in the Pony Arena. The Junior Draft Horse Performance Class will start at 4 p.m. in the Outdoor Horse Arena. The Pony Olympics will begin in the Pony Arena at 6:30 p.m. At 6:30 p.m., the Draft Horse Hitch Classes will start in the Outdoor Horse Arena. Friday, Aug. 12 The Draft Horse Halter Show will begin at 9 a.m. in the Indoor Horse Arena. The Pony and Performance Classes will begin at 9 a.m. in the Pony Arena. Saturday, Aug. 13 The Pony Performance and Hitch Classes will begin in the Pony Arena at 9 a.m. The Draft Horse Hitch Classes will start in the Outdoor Horse Arena at 10 a.m. The Pony Hitch Classes will occur in the Pony Arena at 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14 The Northern Illinois Outlaws Mounted Shooting will perform in the Pony Arena at 10 a.m.

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Look alikes

Fathers and sons can compete to see which duo looked the most alike in the Father/Son Look Alike Contest on Thursday, Aug. 11 at the 2016 Boone County Fair.

New this year: Farm Bureau, Extension Office hosts fair scavenger hunt While fairgoers are enjoying all of the rides, games, exhibits, booths, shows, and more at the Boone County Fair, why not complete a scavenger hunt while traveling around the fairgrounds? The Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau and the Boone County Extension Office will let you do just that. They will host a fair scavenger hunt. Entry forms for the scaven-

ger hunt will be available at the Farm Bureau building at the fair, the animal barns, the Home Economics building, the 4-H Robotics Tent, and at the 4-H food stand. With your form, explore the Boone County Fair and find all of the items on the scavenger hunt list. The scavenger hunt not only provides a fun challenge for fairgoers, but will teach fairgo-

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ers fun facts about animals, 4-H, and more. Bring the completed entry to the Farm Bureau building on LeRoy Street at the fairgrounds by noon on Sunday, Aug. 14. Scavenger hunters who return their completed sheets will be entered for a chance to win a prize. Members of the WinnebagoBoone Farm Bureau will also be available to answer questions and to sign-up people to join the Farm Bureau. Membership will be discounted from the normal yearly membership fee of $40 at the Boone County Fair, so it will be the perfect opportunity to join the Farm Bureau. Joining the Farm Bureau provides a lot of wonderful opportunities such as educational programs, travel opportunities, leadership training, and helping people discover a legislative voice. About the WinnebagoBoone Farm Bureau The Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau’s mission statement is: “Be the voice, resource, and advocate for farm families and agriculture, while promoting stewardship for today and future generations.” For more information, contact the Farm Bureau at their office at 1925 S. Meridian Road in Rockford, by phone at (815) 962-0653, or online at: www. winnebagoboonefarmbureau.org.

Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair / Thursday, August 4, 2016 • 11

Tiger is an endangered species The world would not be the same if we let the magnificent tiger go extinct. Tigers once occupied most of Asia, south into India, China Sumatra, Java, and Bali. Some subspecies of tigers are completely extinct. The tigers that remain are threatened with extinction throughout their range. Man is the reason they are endangered. Man has hunted the tiger relentlessly for his beautiful skin and in defense of his livestock. The greatest threat to tigers today is loss of habitat. The tiger is protected as an endangered species by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), a treaty signed by the United States, Canada, and over a

hundred other countries. You can help by supporting conservation organizations and spreading the word that the tiger is in trouble – and needs your help. Ada Smieya-Blaszak and her son, Brunon Blaszak, take great pride in taking care of their magnificent royal Bengal tigers. Ada is a professional and graduated from the Polish State Circus School. Each tiger consumes 10 pounds of raw meat daily, and once every week half a gallon of milk and three eggs. The tigers are under a health program by the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and the supervisory by USDA and the Department of the

Interior. Each animal is housed in its cage, and they travel in a well-ventilated semi-trailer, which is also well insulated, and is equipped with air/ride. On location: we connect all the cages together and in the same we create a tunnel with 70 feet of walking space and let them run free in the arena, 40 feet in diameter, daily. During wintertime, when we are home, the animals are transferred to much larger cages of about 80 square feet for each tiger. Ada Smieya-Blaszak and Brunon Blaszak are fully devoted to preserve the magnificent tigers for the generations to come.

COURTESY PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

Fairgoers will be amazed at the talents of the Royal Bengal Tigers.

Brunon Blaszak will lead the Royal Bengal Tigers performance at the 2016 Boone County Fair.

COURTESY PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Ranch sorting is a western equestrian sport where a pair of cowboys or cowgirls work as a team against time to move 11 numbered calves from one pen to another in numerical order. The show will be at the Boone County Fair on Tuesday, Aug. 9 at 6:30 p.m. in the pony arena. Admission is free to this show.

Watch exciting world of cowboys

The Boone County Fair offers an eclectic range of activities from an agricultural point of view to the good-old family fun carnival games. One event at the Boone County Fair will allow fairgoers to let their cowboy-side out. On Tuesday, Aug. 9, the Boone County Fair will host “Ranch Sorting” in the Pony Arena at 6:30 p.m. Ranch Sorting is an exciting cowboy sport pitting two riders against the unforgiving clock. Teamwork is key as the two riders work in harmony to sort the 11 calves from one pen to the other in the correct order in the fastest time. Entries will be taken at the announcer’s booth the day of the show. All sorting divisions will get 50 percent pay back. The open sorting division is $40

per team. The cowgirl sorting division is $30 per team. The kids sorting division (for children 12-years-old and younger) is $20 per team. The #6 sorting division is $30 per team. The youth sorting division (for youth 17-years-old and older) is $20 per team. The beginner plus one sorting division is $30 per team. Contestants should take the McKinley Ave. entrance to Gate 5 to get to the arena. Admission to the fair is $5, but admission to the show is free. Western attire is required for competitors. Cowboy hats or helmets must be worn in the show. For more information, call (309) 657-1602 or (309) 368-6948.

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12 • Thursday, August 4, 2016 / Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair

Great American Duck Race comes to Boone County Fair for first time By Matt Helm REPORTER The Great American Duck Race comes to the Boone County Fair for the first time in 2016. “The Great American Duck Race is an exhibition of an event that started in Deming, N.M. in the 1980s,” Chief Quacker Robert Duck said. “My last name being duck, and myself having two pet ducks, I entered and won the event 12 straight years in a row.” Robert Duck has won over $50,000 racing ducks and has even appeared on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Carson and the front page of the Wall Street Journal. “I sold my jewelry business I owned at the time and started the Duck Race exhibition,” Duck said. Each show features four heat races and a final race. Adult and

child volunteers pick a mallard duck and hold it above the water until the horn is pulled. “After that, it’s off to the races,” Duck said. Prizes are awarded to those with the winning ducks. “You can win a duck whistle that quacks when you blow it,” Duck said. “And if you win the final you win a duck visor.” Duck has traveled the country for the last 16 years, visiting 47 of the 50 states. This is his first year bringing the Great American Duck Race to the Boone County Fair. “What people don’t know about the show is that it’s actually very educational,” Duck said. “Come out to the fair and learn a lot more about mallard ducks than you’d ever thought you’d need to know and have fun racing the ducks.”

COURTESY PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

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Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair / Thursday, August 4, 2016 • 13

BOONE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS PARK BELVIDERE, ILLINOIS

Admission information for Boone County Fair

PARKING

N E S

PARKING

Q F

- FOOD -

LEROY RD.

12 13

16 17

COUNTY LINE RD.

BONUS RD.

J 11 9 C 10

BEAVER VALLEY

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McKinley Avenue

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The Boone County Fair will occur from Tuesday, Aug. 9 through Sunday, Aug. 14 at the Boone County Fairgrounds, located at 8791 Route 76 in Belvidere. Admission for the 2016 Boone County Fair will be $5 on Tuesday or free until 4 p.m. with a Belvidere Chamber of Commerce coupon available from selected businesses. Admission will be $6 per person Wednesday through Sunday. Children 10-years-old and younger will get in for free. On Thursday, seniors 65-years-old or older will get in for free. Season tickets in advance are $18 and season tickets at the fair are $20. Gates open at 6 a.m. for breakfast and admission will be free for breakfast customers. Breakfast is served until 10:30 a.m. Gates officially open at 8 a.m., which is when livestock judging begins. Indoor and outdoor exhibits open at 10 a.m. Skinners Carnival opens at noon or at 11 a.m. on Thursday. Skinners will be open until midnight every day of the fair. Ride specials will be open on Wednesday and Thursday until 5 p.m. The Entertainment Pavilion and the Flora Road Stage will be open every day. Tickets went on sale on Saturday, July 9 for the various fair shows that have an admission fee. Tickets are still available at ticket office outside of Gate One at the Boone County Fairgrounds. The ticket office is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday. Tickets can also be ordered over the phone by calling (815) 5474503. Major credit cards are accepted. For more details and a complete schedule, go to www.boonecountyfair. com or call the fair office any Monday or Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at (815) 544-2900.

GATE 7

A 25

BIG THUNDER RD.

GATE 4

GATE 3

SOUTH PARKING AREA

30 31

EXHIBITOR PARKING

HANDICAP PARKING

PARKING

PARKING Business Rt. 20

MAP INDEX 1. Concessions Office 2. Main Ticket Office 3. Baked Potatoes 4. Commercial Exhibit Hall #2 5. Commercial Exhibit Hall #1 6. Entertainment Pavilion 7. Ice Cream Stand 8. Commercial Exhibit Hall #3 9. Wee Farm Petting Zoo 10. Dairy Show Arena 11. Memorial Gazebo 12. Non-Livestock Exhibit Hall 13. Great American Duck Races 14. Main Restrooms (Others Highlighted In Blue) 15. Grange Food Complex

16. Farm Bureau 17. Grange Museum 18. Milking Parlor 19. Dairy 20. Beef 21. Livestock Show Arena 22. Rabbits 23. Sheep 24. Swine 25. Administration Office 26. Horses 27. Horse Arena 28. Goats 29. Poultry 30. Ponies 31. Ponies 32. Pony Arena

33. One Room Schoolhouse 34. First Aid/County Sheriff 35. Food Stands - Donuts, Ice Cream, Sandwiches, Sweet Corn 36. Grandstand 37. 4-H Food Stand 38. Judges Stand 39. Grandstand Tickets 40. Bleachers 41. Cream Puffs 42. Food Stand A. Royal Bengal Tiger Show B. Zolis Wood Carving Artist C. Mr. D’s House Of Magic D. Camping

E. Camping F. Kiddie Rides G. Exhibits H. Exhibits I. Exhibits J. Gazebo Park K. Exhibits L. Pony Rides M. Exhibits N. Exhibits O. Exhibits P. Exhibits Q. Camping R. “Babysitter” Sculpture S. Community Grange Hall

14 • Thursday, August 4, 2016 / Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair

Demolition Derby returns for 2016 Boone County Fair By Bob Balgemann REPORTER

The 2016 Boone County Fair will keep with tradition and bring the Demolition Derby back on the last day of the fair. At the 2015 Boone County Fair, there were several local and neighboring county winners throughout the derby events on Sunday, Aug. 16. Brian White, of Belvidere, won the feature competition at the 1 p.m. show, which sent $2,000 his way, along with another $1,000 for having the best finish among Boone County drivers. Timothy Zeigler from Machesney Park was second in the feature; John Jamison of Byron was third; Paul Walker of Belvidere was fourth; and Michael Vonderheide of Rockton was fifth. In the 1 p.m. bone stock event, Michael Roman of Capron came in first, which was good for $1,000, with Perry Morkel, also from Capron, in second. Jack Roman of Poplar Grove finished third. Belvidere’s Mike Lungstrom pocketed $3,000 in the 6 p.m. derby for winning the feature, which also meant he claimed the highest place among county drivers. Brian White came close to repeating as the feature champion, coming in second, which meant another $1,000 check for him. They were followed by Chris Nelson, of Belvidere, in third; Jack Johnson, of Capron, in fourth; and Michael White, Freeport of, in fifth. These finishes earned each driver $500. There were no Top 3 county

place winners in the 6 p.m. minicar event, which was won by Dustin Wolber of Dixon. Gerald Paul from Rockford finished second with another Dixon driver, Kale Hamill, in third. To see if these drivers keep the momentum going at the Boone County Fair in 2016, head out to the fair on Sunday, Aug. 14. There will be two shows. The first show will begin at 1 p.m. and the second show will follow at 6 p.m. Competition will take place at the Grandstand. Admission is $10 per show. Or, come and join in on the demolition fun by entering the Demolition Derby for a chance to win big prizes. The 1 p.m. shows includes the Bone Stock Classes show, which offers $2,000 for first place, $1,000 for second place, and $500 for third through fifth place finishers. The SS Class One Shot Deal offers $1,000 to the winner and $500 to second and third place finishers. The Boone County Resident who places the highest receives $1,000. At the 6 p.m. Icon Class Heats, first place receives $2,000, second place: $1,000, and third through fifth place receive $500. In the compacts one shot deal, first place receives $1,000 with second and third receiving $500. Again, the Boone County resident who places the highest gets $1,000. For more information, go to www.derbyicons.com.

BOB BALGEMANN PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

Brian White finished first in competition at the 2015 Boone County Fair Demolition Derby. He finished first in 2014 as well. Come out to the Boone County Fair on Sunday, Aug. 14 to see if he will remain the reigning champion. (Right) The No. 97 car, in one heat of the bone stock class at the 2015 Boone County Fair Demolition Derby, was lost in a sea of smoke following a collision with two other entries at the 1 p.m. show. This Demolition Derby intensity is sure to return for the 2016 Boone County Fair on Sunday, Aug. 14.

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Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair / Thursday, August 4, 2016 • 15

Grange will be open for business at Boone County Fair The Grange will be starting a whole new precedent at the 2016 Boone County Fair by hosting the New Grange Breakfast. Breakfast will be served from 6 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. The Grange will cook up eggs made to order, pancakes, bacon, French toast, biscuits and gravy, sausage, and more for those early risers at the fair. The Grange also will be open for dinner Thursday, Aug. 11 through Sunday, Aug. 14. The Grange will serve a ham dinner on Thursday, a spaghetti dinner on Friday, a BBQ chicken dinner on Saturday, and BBQ pork chops dinner on Sunday. The dinner specials at the Grange will go on sale at 11 a.m., and the Grange will keep selling the meals until they are gone. Come to the Boone County Fair for good company, great service, and Grange food.

BOB BALGEMANN PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

(Right) The Grange Hall is a great place to hang out at the Boone County Fairgrounds. The Grange is one of the biggest reasons Boone County has a great fair each and every year.

Going to Boone County Fair By Ann Marie Cain

This year we will feature “Farm Hats” at the booth at the Boone County Fair from Tuesday, Aug. 9 through Sunday, Aug. 14. The exhibit will be decorated with hats while featuring local farmers and the “hats” they wear. New this year is a fair wide scavenger hunt being offered jointly with 4-H. There will be 10 stops in the fairgrounds where guests will read more about farm animals and crops and answer a question about what they learned. Completed forms will be turned into the Farm Bureau exhibit for a chance to win one of the prizes donated by local businesses. The grand prize at the fair will be a Kindle HD 10 donated by the Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau. The exhibit will also include an interactive Farmer’s Market, Peek-aBoo Boards, and a Corn Pit activity for kids of all ages. Additionally, we will have kid friendly activities in the Kid Zone building at the Winnebago County Fair. Information will be available on the Illinois Nutrient Loss Strategy, local Centennial, Sesquicentennial Farms, and Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau. Young Leader Meat Raffle tickets will be available for sale. Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau members who come to our booth also receive a ticket for a free ice cream cone at the fair.

Boone County Council on Aging announces fair schedule The Boone County Council on Aging will join in on the Boone County Fair fun by highlighting daily activities at their gazebo at the Boone County Fairgrounds. Each day, there will be a new feature to their gazebo. So come out each day and see what the Boone County Council on Aging has in store for you. On Tuesday, Aug. 9, the Boone County Council on Aging will host the Keen Age Queen Coronation at 2 p.m. Come see who will be crowned the Keen Age Queen of the Boone County Fair before heading off to the Boone County Fair pageant later on Tuesday night. On Wednesday, Aug. 10, the Keen Age Center will host the “Be A Kid Again” event all day at their gazebo.

The activities will include fun and games for all ages. Bring your kids and your grandkids and experience the light-hearted, carefree nature of a child once again. On Thursday, Aug. 11, the Boone County Fair is hosting “Senior Day,” where senior citizens get into the fair for free. In honor of “Senior Day,” the Boone County Council on Aging will host their own “Senior Day” activities such as group demonstrations led by members of the Keen Age Center. Demonstrations will last all day at the gazebo. On Friday, Aug. 12, the Keen Age Center will decorate their gazebo with the “Friday Foto Frenzy” display. Come check out all of the photos the Boone County Council on Aging has.

On Saturday, Aug. 13, the Keen Age Center invites everyone and anyone to come and show off their talented pipes for their “Saturday Sing-Along: Karaoke.” If you love to sing, come join us for this day of musical fun. On Sunday, Aug. 14, the Boone County Council on Aging will celebrate the last day of the fair with another day full of activity. They will host “Celebrando a nuestros amigos hispanos,” or “Celebration with our Hispanic friends.” With such a high percentage of Hispanic and Latino culture filling the streets of Belvidere and the surrounding areas of the rest of Boone County, the Boone County Council on Aging would like to celebrate the beautiful diversity of the Boone County area.

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The best time to celebrate is at the Boone County Fair, a time where the whole county gathers to celebrate. In addition to these special events, fairgoers are encouraged to stop by the gazebo for free blood pressure checks provided by the University of Illinois Chicago College of Pharmacy Rockford. Fairgoers can also pick up informational programs about the Boone County Council on Aging as well as participate in the Keen Age Center’s annual quilt raffle. The Boone County Council on Aging (The Keen Age Center) is located at 2141 Henry Luckow Lane in Belvidere. For more information, call Executive Director Joe Fortmann at (815) 544-9893 or go to www.keenage.org.

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16 • Thursday, August 4, 2016 / Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair

2016 Boone County Fair Little Miss Contestants 1

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Danielle Rae daughter of Dittbenner of sponsored by

Vanessa Isabel Hernandez is the daughter of Rosie and Mario Hernandez of Belvidere. She is sponsored by Bruce Nelson of Country Financial.

Lilly Rose Spencer Hammer is the daughter of Michelle and Spencer Hammer of Rockford. She is sponsored by HammerTime Sports, Inc.

Brittney Rae Stanfel is the daughter of Kelli and Marion Stanfel of Belvidere. She is sponsored by Byron Bank.

Madison Mary Weckler is the Laney Hope Dobbs is the daughdaughter of Susan and Matt ter of Shana and Scot Dobbs of Weckler of Poplar Grove. She is Belvidere. She is sponsored by Bush Gardens. sponsored by mom and dad.

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Chloe Angela Schadle is the daughter of Angela and Shawn Schadle of Belvidere. She is sponsored by her family.

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Chloe Jaelyn Sanford is the daughter of Brooke and Jason Sanford of Poplar Grove. She is sponsored by her family.

Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair / Thursday, August 4, 2016 • 17

2016 Boone County Fair Little Miss Contestants

Alivia Maris Malcom is the daughter of Andrea and Andy Malcom of Poplar Grove. She is sponsored by Malcom Pediatric Dentistry.

Avarie Mary Torres is the daughter of Melissa and Gabe Torres of Poplar Grove. She is sponsored by her family.

Hannah Lynn Rogers is the daughter of Jodie and John Rogers of Poplar Grove. She is sponsored by mom and dad.

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Madison Michelle Dittbenner is the daughter of Rachel and Dan Dittbenner of Belvidere. She is sponsored by mom and dad.

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18 • Thursday, August 4, 2016 / Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair

2016 Boone County Fair Queen Contestants 2

Rebecca Suzanne Houlihan

Braylee Alizabeth Cebuhar

Rebecca is the 16-year-old daughter of Paula and Samuel Muse and Richard Houlihan, of Belvidere. Rebecca will be entering her junior year at North Boone High School this fall. She plans on attending college after graduating high school, but is yet undecided in her choice of universities. She would like to study art. In the future, she plans to be a photographer because looking through the camera lens enables us to notice details we may have missed. Through Girls Scouts of Northern Illinois, Rebecca often volunteers by hosting camps and events for younger scouts. Through Girl Scouts, Rebecca has earned her Silver Award by hosting an obstacle course that was open to her school and the community. She participates in Girls Scouts through Mariner Ship 361. Mariner Ship 361 is a larger version and older division of Girl Scouting whose events are very water-based, focusing on water skills and safety. Rebecca participates in Student Council and has been the Vice President of her class. Rebecca also participates in the drama club at NBHS. Productions she has been in include Transylmania, Cinderella, Anything Goes, and her personal Favorite: Murders in the Air. Acting relaxes Rebecca and she enjoys slipping into a new roll which brings a new perspective to her everyday life. A few of her hobbies include sketching, being outside, acting, writing, and reading. Rebecca is sponsored by Uncle John’s Restaurant. Rebecca’s platform is The Consequences Of Drunk Driving.

Braylee is the 17-year-old daughter of Michelle and Jason Cebuhar of Loves Park. Braylee currently attends Belvidere North High School and will be a senior this fall. She plans to attend a four year university and then medical school, focusing on obstetrics. Someday Braylee would like to live in Tennessee and become an obstetrician. Braylee is employed at Justice, working very hard to save money for her future education. Braylee is a member of the Science National Honor Society at BNHS. Braylee is a two-time NIC 10 Varsity Scholar Athlete and a NIC 10 Conference Champion as of January 2016. Braylee was first runner up in the co-ed division at the IHSA Cheerleading State Competition in February 2016. Braylee continues to be in varsity sideline and competitive cheerleading at Belvidere North, and she spends many nights tumbling at Wight Tumble Academy. Braylee is currently reading Miracles from Heaven by Christy Beam. She enjoys cleaning and organizing to feel more at peace with herself. She loves to shop, spend time with friends and especially her family. Braylee also helps others with their self-image and coping skills by mentoring those who are going through a hard time. Braylee is sponsored by Kelly Wolf Realtor. Braylee’s platform is Invisible Illness.

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Madison is the 18-year-old daughter of Terri O’Hern of Belvidere. Madison is a 2016 graduate of Belvidere High School. She has also completed the Nursing Assistant program at Rock Valley College. Madison will attend Northern Illinois University in the fall to pursue a nursing degree. She then plans to continue to earn her master’s degree and become a Nurse Practitioner in either oncology or pediatrics. Madison’s currently employed as a Nursing Assistant at Northwood Care Center in Belvidere. On the Honor roll all throughout high school, Madison was awarded the Belvidere Junior Tackle Scholarship. She also received the Michael Bergman Scholarship, which was based on academics, athletics, and community involvement. Madison has been a volunteer for Special Olympics, enjoys bow hunting, fishing, softball, and cheerleading. Madison’s hobbies include reading, especially Nicholas Sparks and JoJo Moyes. She enjoys working out, running, listening to music, going on long walks, and archery. Her family will tell you she makes a really good cherry cheesecake. Madison is sponsored by ICAW Outdoors. Madison’s platform is The Importance of Outdoors.

Ivy is the 16-year-old daughter of Angel and Todd Steege of Belvidere. Ivy will enter her junior at Belvidere High School this fall. She plans on attending either the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater or Millikin University to study acting in the theater arts. Knowing acting is a difficult career to get into; Ivy also is interested in working in set design, costume design, and production. Ivy is currently employed by several families babysitting and dog sitting. Ivy’s honors include President of her class, second place at IHSA Sectional Journalism Competition in Photography, and sixth place at IHSA State Journalism Competition in Photography, Webmaster on the North Central District of Student Council’s Board, Illinois Music Education Association Choir, second place for an art project at the Jewish Federation of Greater Rockford’s Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony. Ivy has received Silver Award in Girl Scouts, and a $150 Music Camp Scholarship. Ivy’s activities include Student Council, Science Olympiad, Yearbook, Broadcasting, NCD, Flaming Monkeys Robotics, Ambassador in Girl Scouts Troop 3094, Theater, and Swimming. Ivy’s hobbies include drawing, writing, web design, and photography. In addition her favorite hobbies are singing and preforming. Ivy said she couldn’t survive without music and an audience. Ivy is sponsored by Meyer’s Tails Up Farm. Ivy’s platform is Paying It Forward.

Hannah is the 17-year-old daughter of Josie and Rodney Riley of Belvidere. Hannah will be a senior at Belvidere High School this fall. She plans to study premedicine in college and then enter medical school to become a pediatrician. Hannah is currently job shadowing her pediatrician, Dr. Andrew Geddes, MD at Swedish American Woodside Medical. Hannah has been on the high honor roll throughout high school and plans on finishing a strong senior year and graduating Summa Cum Laude with highest honors. She received the Rookie of the Year award in the Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra her freshman year. Hannah’s junior year was spent creating the record book for Belvidere High School Student Council, for which she received the Honor Council Award at the State Convention in Springfield this past May. Hannah’s activities include the Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra where she was in the First Violin section her freshman year, invited to play in the elite member’s Chamber Orchestra her sophomore year, and the Sterling String Quartet her junior year. Hannah’s love of Student Council has taken her to the North Central District Student Council where she is serving as the District Vice President for the 2016-2017 year. Hannah has participated in all of the BHS Musicals since her freshman year, either in the pit orchestra or on stage. Hannah loves walking in the park with her two dogs. One of them is a police K-9 that she helps her dad train. She loves having “Girl Days” with her mom and girlfriends. Hannah also enjoys volunteering at the Northern Illinois Food Bank. Hannah is sponsored by Christina Rae Salon and Spa. Hannah’s platform is The Make A Wish Foundation: Bridgette’s Story.

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Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair / Thursday, August 4, 2016 • 19

2016 Boone County Fair Queen Contestants 7

C&H Hannah Paige Gustafson

Shannon Lee Hart

Lexi is the 16-year-old daughter of Rhonda Tintlemann and the late Tony Passero of Belvidere. Lexi will be a junior this year at Belvidere High School. She was enrolled in dual credit courses last year through Rock Valley College, and plans on doing that this fall as well. After graduation, she plans on continuing at RVC and eventually Lexi would like transfer to Berkley University and enter the medical field. Lexi is interested in preforming ultrasounds and becoming a pediatrician. Lexi is currently employed as a babysitter. Lexi is the Public Relations Officer for BHS Executive Board for Student Council creating web pages. She is on the synchronized figure skating team at Carlson’s Ice Arena. Before transferring to BHS, Lexi attended Jefferson High School where she was on the Cheer Squad and French Club. Lexi is in the youth group at Rockford Life. In her free time, Lexi likes to play the guitar, favoring rock and alternative music, being with friends and family, and reading. She also enjoys creating art in clay, pencil, and water paints. Lexi likes to cook and bake and has her own favorite recipe for Chicken Alfredo and Tiramisu. Lexi is sponsored by Macaroni Kid, Naperville. Lexi’s platform is Inspiring Others.

Hannah is the 20-year-old daughter of Lee Ann and Brad Gustafson of Caledonia. Hannah attended Valparaiso University from 2013-2015 where she studied Communications. She currently attends Tricoci University of Beauty Culture to obtain her cosmetology license. Hannah will graduate in March and will seek employment in a salon. She would like to eventually open her own salon. Hannah is currently employed as a Beauty Consultant and makeup artist for Sephora at JCPennys. Hannah received the title of Miss Interview in the 2012 Miss Boone County Queen Pageant. As a freshman at Valparaiso, Hannah was elected President of Alumni Hall Dorm and was awarded the National Residence Hall Honorary Award for Outstanding President. Her sophomore year, Hannah was elected to the executive council as President of Communications for Pi Beta Women’s Fraternity. Most recently she was awarded the status of Professional at Tricoci after only five months. Volunteer could be Hannah’s middle name. At Tricoci, Hannah helps women with disabled children at Gigi’s Playhouse and gathers information about new products and presents them to the students at Tricoci. She donates and helps with Andy’s Books for Kids benefitting local grade schools and loves reading to children during the Pi Beta Phi’s Champions Are Readers, childhood literacy foundation. Hannah also volunteers at her church as a group leader or craft person during Vacation Bible School. Hannah’s hobbies include baking, swimming, writing poems, reading, yoga, and gardening with her mother. Hannah is sponsored by Dixon Auto Sales Inc. Hannah’s platform is Importance Of Childhood Literacy.

Shannon is the 18-year-old daughter of Michelle and Jered Hart of Belvidere. Shannon is a 2016 graduate of Belvidere High School. This fall Shannon will attend the Cortiva Massage Institute in Chicago to study massage therapy. Shannon is employed at Curt Degner DDS P.C. as a dental assistant. Shannon graduated Cum Laude with a 3.5 GPA, and received the Veterans of Foreign War Scholarship. Involved in Choraliers, Shannon took part in the directing and producing the Positive Outreach Tour that was named “There’s a U in Superhero” which was performed at the District 100 elementary schools. The Choraliers also performed at The First Presbyterian Church, The Lou Bachrodt Christmas Toy Drive, and Belvidere’s Hometown Christmas. Shannon also enjoyed being involved with the Theater Department at BHS performing both in “Children of Eden” and “Beauty and the Beast.” Shannon was a member of the Belvidere Co-op swim and dive team for four years and was chosen captain her senior year. The team took a Conference and Sectional title for the first time in history two years in a row. Shannon was chosen to be part of the Advanced Topics course, and the project she created was a seminar named “Girls Get Dirty” to empower young women to get outdoors. Shannon knits lapghans for veterans and participates in Living History WWll events. This spring she was honored to read the Gettysburg Address at the Shattuck Grove Cemetery Memorial Day Service. Shannon’s hobbies include crafting, knitting, cooking, hiking, kayaking, and camping. Shannon’s Sponsor is Curt Degner DDS P.C. Shannon’s platform is Create Your Ripple.

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20 • Thursday, August 4, 2016 / Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair

Queen Jilliana Paul, Little Miss Melrose Martinez share reigning year experiences as they ready for 2016 fair By Kathryn Menue EDITOR

FA ATT rm N: er s

Another Boone County Fair is right around the corner, and opening night of the fair, Boone County will crown their new Queen and Little Miss. After the crowning event Tuesday, Aug. 9, the new Queen and the new Little Miss will have full schedules for their reigning year, as 2015 Queen Jilliana Paul, of Caledonia, and Little Miss Melrose Martinez, of Belvidere, can attest. “It’s been a whirlwind from the beginning,” Paul said of her year as Queen. “It’s what I expected and more – a dream come true.” Throughout her year as Queen, Paul, 19, has not only represented Boone County to her fullest capacity, but also has completed her freshman year at Blackhawk Technical College pursuing a degree in physical therapy and rehabilitation. Little Miss Martinez, 9, has been right alongside Paul throughout their journey of representing Boone County, while still completing the third grade at Washington Academy. “It’s been really fun, and I have

made a lot of new friends,” Martinez said. One of her new friends is her “big sister,” Queen Jilliana Paul. “I was nervous [to compete in the pageant], but it was worth it for the deep fried Oreos,” Martinez joked, “And for the Queen, because she’s like your big sister.” Paul agreed, stating that she’s gained “a sister for life.” The pair have been through quite a year together attending the Boone County Fair, parades, breakfasts, meetings, Pioneer Days, Safety Town, Heritage Days, and more. “If it happened in Boone County, we were there,” Paul said. “You name it, and we were there.” Plus, the Queen always competes in the Miss Illinois Fair Queen Pageant. Among all of the events the Queen and Little Miss attended, they definitely had their favorites. Both agreed that the Boone County Fair was the highlight of the year, especially since they got to “eat their weight in [fair] food,” and experience the fair from a new perspective. “It’s a once in a lifetime

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experience,” Paul said. “It’s really special to go in a crown and sash – just being the hostess of everything.” One of the events Paul loved hosting after the fair was the Fire District II Pancake Breakfast because she said the “fire chief was a jokester” and the firemen really made sure everyone had a good time. She said she also loved participating in more 4-H events, since she had done a lot with the organization before. However, Little Miss Melrose Martinez enjoyed Hometown Christmas the best and decorating their poinsettia themed Christmas tree for an underprivileged family. The Queen and Little Miss even got creative by wrapping a present to look like a snowman. Overall, Paul said that the people were what made their year great. “The best part was just getting to know everyone in the county,” Paul said. For the past few months, Queen Jilliana Paul and Little Miss Melrose Martinez have continued their reigns by preparing the eight Miss contestants and the 20 Little Miss contestants for the 2016 Boone County Fair Pageant. Every Tuesday night since mid May, Paul and Martinez have attended meetings at the Grandstand helping contestants with modeling, interviews, speeches, and a dance number, which the Paul and Martinez will perform with the girls on Aug. 9. Throughout all of the practice, the Queen and Little Miss advise the contestants not to lose sight of what is truly important. “Just soak up pageant night. Don’t lose sight of the fun,” Paul said. “Live in the moment and have fun.” Little Miss Melrose Martinez agreed that the experience is what matters. “Just have fun. It doesn’t matter if you win because you’re all winners,” Martinez said. Even if a contestant is insecure, it never hurts to try. Both Paul and Martinez had competed in the 2014 pageant. Paul won first runner-up, but came back in 2015 for the title. “I was born and raised in Boone County and I went to the pageant each year,” Paul said. “I wanted a chance to stand up and do what queens did in the past.” The pageant experience helped Paul feel like she was doing her part in society. She said her favorite part of the pageant was the speech because she chose to speak about breaking barriers and overcoming obstacles as her platform in honor of her brother she lost two years ago due to mental illness. “I felt like I was doing my biggest part to make a difference,” Paul said. Martinez also returned to boost her self-confidence. “I was really shy, and I thought that it [the pageant] would make

KATHRYN MENUE PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Boone County Fair Little Miss Melrose Martinez and Boone County Fair Queen Jilliana Paul experienced a wonderful year representing Boone County.

me more outgoing, and it definitely did,” Martinez said. “I think it [the pageant] brings more fun to the fair and inspires girls to do it.” Paul said that is the beautiful thing about competing, “you never know unless you try.” “Take your chance because you never know where it will lead you,” Paul said. Plus, Paul said that contestants still will gain important life skills even if they don’t win. To the contestant who will win the Queen title, Paul said that they always should remember to remain proud of their title because they are not only representing Boone County, but also the people of Boone County. “Just always stay proud of the title you have,” Paul said. “Put your heart into it.” However, Paul said she doesn’t have to worry about the future of

Boone County, because they know each of the contestants will make a great Queen and a great Little Miss. “I know our shoes will be plenty filled,” Paul said. Of course, crowning the new Queen and Little Miss will be a bittersweet moment for 2015 Queen Jilliana Paul and Little Miss Melrose Martinez. “I’m probably going to cry during it, but I’ll remember all the great memories, and I know I’ll have Jill,” Martinez said. “The most important thing is it’s been a life changing experience.” Little Miss Melrose Martinez and Queen Jilliana Paul both are thankful for the wonderful experience. “It’s been a complete honor to represent Boone County,” Paul said. “I’d like to say a big thank you to the fair board because without them none of this would be possible.”

Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair / Thursday, August 4, 2016 • 21

Entertainment Building hosts variety of musical specialties The Boone County Fair offers a wide array of activities, including musical entertainment. For the 2016 Boone County Fair, the Entertainment Building will be home to at least three different music and variety acts each day from Tuesday, Aug. 9 through Sunday, Aug. 14. Tuesday, Aug. 9 The first show at the Entertainment Building during the Boone County Fair will be Skip-N-ABeat from noon to 2 p.m. Also performing Tuesday will be the M Bros. variety show from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. To round out the first day of music, Boone County favorite Dale Rhode and the Crossroads Band will perform from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10 Starting out on Wednesday will be Chip Messiner: One Man Country Band of Q 98.5. Messiner will perform from noon to 3 p.m. In between shows, the Entertainment Pavilion will be home to contest favorites throughout the day such as the watermelon eating and seed spitting contest, the bubble gum blowing contest, the Twinkie eating contest, and the soda drinking contest. Annie Pearse will be the host of these contests and will hand out prizes for the first three winners of each contest.

First place winners will receive $15. Second place winners will receive $10. Third place winners will receive $5. Second on the agenda is country music singer Woody James who will perform from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Looking for Treble will perform their 50s through 80s pop and rock hits from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 11 A regular at the Boone County Fair, Music by Hallie will perform their variety show from noon to 2 p.m. After a short intermission, the Matthew Windrow Band will perform old-polka-style country music from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Taking over from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. will be Kevin Burns and the Good Vibrations. Coinciding with the music for the evening will be the Mother/ Daughter Look-A-Like Contest and the Father/Son Look-A-Like Contest. The Mother/Daughter contest will be held at 5:30 p.m. The Father/Son Contest will be held at 7:30 p.m. First place winners will receive

$25, second place will receive $20, and third place will receive $15. Past winners are not eligible to compete. Arnie Pearse will host these events. Friday, Aug. 12 A Boone County Fair staple, Laura Rae and the Backroads Trio, will perform at the Entertainment Building from noon to 3 p.m. With a short break occurring at the Entertainment Building after Laura Rae and the Backroads Trio’s performance, Magic by Herb Rosene will continue the entertainment with his magic act from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mary Lee’s School of Dance will take the stage next, hoping to keep the magical atmosphere alive with a unique dance performance. The dancing from Mary Lee’s School of Dance will take place from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Bringing the music back to the Entertainment Building, local favorite the Silver Creek Band will perform from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13 In the morning, talented fairgoers can sign up for the talent con-

test at 9:30 a.m. It is free to sign up after paying fair admission. This competition is open to all amateur talent. The Junior Talent Competition will begin at 10:30 a.m. This competition is for youth 14-years-old and younger. The Senior Talent Competition will take place at 12:30 p.m. This competition is for 15-year-olds through 21-year-old. First place receives $100. Second place receives $75. Third place receives $50. Interested parties can contact Chip Messiner after Aug. 1 at (815) 877-9678. Straying away from the more musical based acts, The Karate Academy will perform karate moves and stunts from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. After karate, dance will take the stage with Celia’s Dance and Education Center. They will perform from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Continuing with the night of variety, the stage will switch course again, welcoming a music act to the Entertainment Building. Missing Links will share their

rock/R&B music from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14 Sunday’s entertainment will start out a little differently. Taking to the Entertainment Building first will be a church service conducted by Gideon’s International. The church service will be held from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. After the church service, fairgoers can compete in a Lip Sync Contest from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. or a Karaoke Contest from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. First place will receive $75, second place will receive $50, and third place will receive $25. These events will be hosted by Arnie Pearse. After an hour break, the Boone Boys 35 year reunion will take place from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. To end the Boone County Fair’s Entertainment Building lineup, Rockin Horse Band will perform from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Entertainment Building is located east of Exhibit Hall #1. Come to the fair and enjoy the vast collection of free entertainment at the Boone County Fair.

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Tuesday, Aug. 9, Wednesday, Aug. 10, Friday, Aug. 12, and Saturday, Aug. 13 at the Boone County Fair will feature free shows at the Grandstand.

Tuesday, Aug. 9

The first free show will be Harness and Colt Racing at noon. The Real Beal’s One Man Band will perform at 6:30 p.m. The Fair Queen Pageant will begin at 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 10

Friday, Aug. 12

ATV Racing will occur in front of the bleachers from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. At 1:30 p.m. Mutton Bustin’ Qualifications will occur at the Grandstand.

Saturday, Aug. 13

The last free show at the Grandstand for the fair will be the Garden Tractor and Antique Tractor Pulls at 8 a.m.

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Harness and Colt Racing will occur for another day at noon. The Antique Tractor Parade will be at the Grandstand track at 5 p.m.

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22 • Thursday, August 4, 2016 / Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair

Visit Merri Milkmaids at Boone County Fair There is one booth you do not want to miss at the Boone County Fair: the Merri Milkmaids Ice Cream booth. Since 1973, the Merri Milkmaids have served ice cream and promoted dairy at the Boone County Fair. It all started with several dairy farmers’ wives and their passion for the dairy industry. Char Rabe, an original Merri Milkmaid, recalled the day her neighbor, Joy Harris invited her to a meeting, but at the time, she wasn’t quite sure what she was getting herself into. “It turned out to be the Merri Milkmaids and they were discussing serving ice cream at the fair,” Rabe said. “It was the first year they were doing that, and I have been involved with the fair business ever since.” At that time, there were between 20 and 30 members of the Merri Milkmaids. At this current time, there are two active members of the club: Char Rabe of Caledonia and Gen Ellingson of Poplar Grove. These two ladies have made sure the ice cream booth at the fair runs smoothly for the last 43 years. This year, they have decided to hand this task down to two young, capable dairy farm wives: Amy Hildebrandt of South Beloit and Brandi Johnson of Poplar Grove. Hildebrandt and Johnson are very excited to take on the tradition. However, they know that they have some big shoes to fill. “I think I can speak for both of us when I say we feel very honored that we were asked to do this,” Johnson

EMILY HANLIN

Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau Ag Communications

said. “We want to continue doing things the way Char and the other ladies have done them as well as give back to the community. Because we are dairy farmers, we would also like to promote dairy products as much as we can. We would like to get a few more farm wives, even if they are not dairy farm wives, to join Amy and I. We are very open and are always looking to grow our group.” Back when the group started selling ice cream, it sold for 25 cents per “dip” of ice cream. Now, you can get two scoops of ice cream for $2. The ice cream comes from Muller Pinehurst Dairy in Rockford. Since they started selling ice cream, their menu has not fluctuated much. They experimented with sherbet once, but it melted too quickly to sell. They stick to the same eight to 10 flavors they started with in 1973. Since the beginning, the number one seller has been butter pecan. However, Char Rabe’s favorite will always be chocolate. Due to the dwindling number of dairy farm wives to work the booth, North Boone Booster club helps fill the shifts at the ice cream booth. Different clubs from the school come in and work the three hour shifts. The Merri Milkmaids then award three

$750 scholarships to graduating North Boone seniors every year. Aside from the scholarships, the Merri Milkmaids also make large donations to the Salvation Army and local food pantries every year. “You would be surprised how many kids and maybe some adults don’t know where their ice cream comes from,” Johnson said. “For some of them, the grocery store is the furthest that they see; they don’t see the processing and they definitely don’t see the cow that it comes from. With us being in that business, we would like to promote the dairy industry a little bit more.” Being able to make a connection at the fair between the cows in the dairy barn and the ice cream from the Merri Milkmaids is important to Hildebrandt and Johnson. They hope to make both places more interactive and educational for consumers. As far as future plans go for the Merri Milkmaids group, “we want to keep things the way they are, but we are always open to suggestions and ideas. I think Char and the other women have done a great job and we want to continue and honor what they have started.” “Even though our cows are gone, I am still very passionate about the industry,” Rabe said. She is confident in leaving this project in the hands of these young and energetic women. Sto, make sure you stop by the Merri Milkmaid booth at the Boone County Fair, say “Hello” to the new leaders, and thank a dairy farmer for the creamy goodness.

Northern Illinois Outlaws return for Boone County Fair

The Northern Illinois Outlaws Riding/Shooting Exhibition (NIO Club) will return to the Boone County Fair for another year. The outlaws are comprised of 21 cowboys and cowgirls dressed in 1800s attire.

The participants of the show compete in four different rounds, trying to ride faster and shoot well to beat the other competitors. The rounds showcase the shooters talent by having each rider shoot five red and white balloons in a certain order with a .45 caliber,

BHS boosters sell football season tickets at Boone County Fair Belvidere High School football season tickets will be on sale at the Boone County Fair from Tuesday, Aug. 9 to Sunday, Aug. 14. The BHS boosters will sell the tickets for the football season at the Belvidere High School trailer.

Reserved season tickets are $30 per seat for five home games. Reserved parking passes will also be sold to season ticket holders on a first come, first serve basis. The cost for reserve parking is $25.

single-action revolver. Riders each get two guns to shoot at the targets distanced 15 feet away. The Northern Illinois Outlaws will perform at the Boone County Fair on Sunday, Aug. 14 at 10 a.m. in the Pony Arena. Admission is free for the show. About the Northern Illinois Outlaws The NIO Club originates in Sycamore where they practice for shows, such as the Boone County Fair. The club is open to interested riders in a men’s division, women’s division, senior’s division, and junior kids’ wranglers division for children 12-years-old and younger. For more information, visit northernillinoisoutlaws.com/about.htm.

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Pictured from bottom to top are Char Rabe, Brandi Johnson, and Amy Hildebrandt, aka: the Merri Milkmaids.

FAIR DAYS

Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair / Thursday, August 4, 2016 • 23

Come enjoy ATV/4-Wheeler racing at Boone County Fair On Friday, Aug. 12, ATV/4Wheeler racing will return to the Boone County Fair. The racing will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Grandstand. Admission is free to sit in the bleachers. Fairgoers can enter the fairgrounds through the McKinley Avenue entrance to attend the show. For those who would like to compete in the races, sign-up will begin at 8 a.m. The fee is $20 per ride or $15 per pit pass. Competitors 17-years-old and younger must have a parent present to sign consent form that their child is allowed to race. Classes for ATV/4-Wheeler Racing include: The Sports classes are for 16-year-old and older. These include the Up to 350ccc four stroke; Up to 400cc four stroke; Up to 450cc four stroke; Up to 650cc four stroke, the open four

stroke; Up to 350 cc two stroke; and Up to 500cc two stroke. The Kids Classes include the Up to 50cc for children 5-yearsold to 8-years-old; the Up to 90cc for 6-year-olds to 9-yearolds; Up to 90cc for 10-yearolds to 12-year-olds; Up to 125cc for 10-year-olds to 12-year-olds; Up to 200cc for 11-year-olds to 14-year-olds; and Up to 350cc for 13-year-olds to 15-year-olds. The utility with race only knobby tire classes are for 16-yearolds and older. This includes the Up to 450cc class and the open class. The side by side races also are for 16-year-olds and older for the UP to 200cc class and the open class. There will also be a powder puff class. For more information on how to join classes, call Kathy at (217) 494-5122.

COURTESY PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

ATV Racing will occur at the 2016 Boone County Fair on Friday, Aug. 12 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the track in front of the bleachers. Admission is free to this event.

If it’s post-hospital rehab or long-term care you need...

e Co m e s e us at the Fair!

RELY ON THOSE YOU TRUST. We’ve been caring for seniors in the Greater Belvidere Community for over four decades. If you need us, we’ll be here for you too.

815-547-6377 www.maplecrestcare.com

815-544-0358 www.northwoodscare.com

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24 â&#x20AC;¢ Thursday, August 4, 2016 / Rock Valley Publishing - The Boone County Fair 250359