Visitors Guide
2022
A Rock Valley Publishing LLC publication 2022
2022 BOONE COUNTY FAIR
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2022 AREA VISITORS GUIDE
set for Aug. 9-14
This huge Grange produced event since 1957 was voted the #1 Event/ Festival for 2021 in the Rock River Valley in the ‘What Rocks!’ contest. And 2022 should be no exception with another six big days of a whole lotta happy being planned Aug. 9-14. Featuring the best county fair livestock shows in the State for draft horses, ponies, goats, beef and dairy cattle, sheep, rabbits, chickens and swine. Thousands of home art will be on exhibit in our non-livestock exhibit hall. Three commercial buildings will be filled with vendors of all types, plus hundreds more throughout the fairgrounds. Hours of free entertainment will be available in the Entertainment Pavilion, plus free shows and exhibits throughout the grounds including an actual Blacksmith, Magicians, Chain Saw Wood Carving, Alpaca exhibit, All Star Stunt Dog Show, The Pork Chop Revue Show, The 4-H Wee Farm, The authentic one-room schoolhouse, huge antique tractor display and the beautiful new Grange Museum. Get your tickets for one of the great
Grandstand shows including Country Star Neal McCoy along with special guest, the talented Jo Dee Messina on Saturday evening. There’s Truck Pulls Wednesday evening, Truck and Tractor Pulls all day Thursday, Professional Bull Riding on Friday and of course the Demo Derby on Sunday. Tickets for Neal and Jo Dee available now online at www.boonecountyfair.com. The other shows go on sale the fairground’s ticket office at gate 1 starting on Saturday, July 9, 8 a.m. to Noon. Cheer on your favorite Queen or Little Miss Contestant Tuesday evening in front of the grandstand. It’s a great pageant and its free. The fair also features an exciting Midway with Skinner’s Amusements. thrill rides and children’s rides galore. Ride specials are offered on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons. Sorry, no wristbands. All rides priced individually. Admission to the fair is only $8 Wednesdays–Sunday, $7 on Tuesday. Children 10 and under free all day every day Seniors 65+ free on Thursday. Plenty of free parking is available. Season tickets are $25 in advance or $28
at the gate. Visit the Grange Food Complex for great breakfasts, and dinners, plus many more great food stands throughout the fairgrounds at 8847 IL Rt 76, Belvidere, Ill. For more information, call 815-5442900 Monday or Wednesdays 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For a complete schedule and more information go to www.boonecountyfair.com See you at the Fair!
top: Country Artist Neal McCoy with special guest Jo Dee Messina will be performing Saturday evening, Aug. 13 at the Boone County Fair. bottom: Enjoy free family fun at the Pork Chop Revue with talented swine performing several times every afternoon at the Boone County Fair. SUBMITTED PHOTOS Visitor’s Guide
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2022 AREA VISITORS GUIDE
Weiskopf Observatory
The J. Weiskopf Observatory, with its 11” Celestron reflecting telescope, is available for public viewing and special programs. During the weekly free public viewing sessions, experienced staff will guide you through the night skies. Visitors will see the planets, the moon, and fainter objects in the sky. Special events and programs are offered as amazing events take place in our skies like meteor showers, solar and lunar eclipses, and when a planet is easily visible. For viewing conditions please call 815-234-8535 ext. 216. at Weiskopf Observatory in the Byron Forest Preserve.
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Heritage Farm: An early country experience In 1843, Charlie Wilbur and his family came from New York and settled across the river from Byron, Ill. The farm, which is now called Heritage Farm, remained in the Wilbur family for five generations. The Byron Forest Preserve has restored the farm buildings, so that future generations can discover what early country life was about. You can enjoy a free self-guided tour through the grout house. Take a peek in the barns at the local “residents.” A small fee may be charged for guided tours. School field trips and group tours are encouraged. Children and adults can learn how to make cornbread over the fire and “churn” their own butter for it. Yum! When in season, groups learn about maple syrup and honey production and bottling too. Heritage Farm is located at the Byron Forest Presreve, 8059 North River Road, Byron, Ill. Museum hours
SUBMITTED PHOTO Visitor’s Guide
Open daily (April 1 – Oct. 31) Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday 2 to 6 p.m. Please call 815-234-8535 x217 to setup a tour.
Jarrett Prairie Center Museum features exhibits, other amenities Visit the Jarrett Prairie Center Museum that boasts amazing views of the Jarrett Prairie Nature Preserve along with more than 4,000 square feet of exhibits and hands-on learning opportunities for visitors of all ages. There are several large natural history and historical dioramas, fossil exhibits, prairie restoration information, an interactive prairie agriculture exhibit that allows visitors to design their own farm, and some live exhibits including box turtles, a fox snake, and honey bees. Visitors can relax in the Byron Bank Immersive Theater while learning about local prairie ecology. The ever popular Wolf Den bur oak tree exhibit is located in the theater for all of the little ones to enjoy climbing in and out and through, finding what may live inside our bur oak trees! Visitors can take a step out on the 2,600 square-foot wraparound outdoor observation deck to take a look at the scenery for miles as the Jarrett Prairie Center is located on the third highest point in Ogle County. • CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
Visit the Jarrett Prairie Center Museum that boasts amazing views of the Jarrett Prairie Nature Preserve along with more than 4,000 square feet of exhibits and hands-on learning opportunities for visitors of all ages. BYRON FOREST PRESERVE PHOTO Visitor’s Guide
MOTORCYCLE SWAP MEET Indoors • Outdoors Rain or Shine
Sunday, June 26 • 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Indoors • Outdoors McHenry Co. Fairgrounds Rain or Shine OVER 2000 BUYERS THROUGH THE GATES!
American, British, Japanese Dirt Bikes, Parts, Leather, T-Shirts, Jewelry, Novelties, and much more . . .
Admission $10 • Under 14 FREE Plus FREE parking
Visitors Guide
2022
Walneck’s McHenry County Area • Woodstock, IL
A publication of Rock Valley Publishing LLC 1102 Ann St., Delavan, WI 53115 • (262) 763-3511
WALNECK’S INC.
Editor in Chief: ............................................................. Ed Nadolsk Section Editor: ...................................................... Melanie Bradley Page Design: ..............................................................Jen DeGroot Creative Director: .................................................... Heather Ruenz Advertising Director: ........................................... Vicki Vanderwerff
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For advertising opportunities in our weekly newspapers or other special publications, please call (262) 725-7701, ext. 134.
Vendor spaces $50 indoors and outdoors. Vendor setup 6 a.m. $5 entry for all A.B.A.T.E. members - show your card! Great Food! FREE corral to sell your Bike!
630-985-2097
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2022 AREA VISITORS GUIDE
East Troy Railroad offers a step back in time The East Troy Railroad Museum operates on the last remaining piece of the original interurban network, which operated in Wisconsin. By 1939, the railroad was retired by The Milwaukee Electric Railway & Light Company due to lack of ridership. Since everything from gas to groceries came in to East Troy by our line, the town passed a referendum to purchase the remaining 7.5 mile stretch of track and overhead for freight purposes. The Village of East Troy operated the railroad until the year 2000 when it was purchased by the Friends of East Troy Railroad. Today, the East Troy Electric Railroad has 32 pieces of equipment with over 500 members worldwide, 110 active volunteers and 15,000 visitors each year! With your support, we can fulfill our mission to keep the trolley history alive for generations to come! The Experience Step back in time when life was a little simpler. Our historic rail cars travel a 10-mile trip through beautiful Southeast Wisconsin. Board at either the depot in East Troy or at The Elegant Farmer in Mukwonago. Meander through the depot museum where kids can be a trolley motorman, discover the joy of model layouts and learn about electricity. The gift shop features a unique selection of railroad souvenirs for all ages. Delight your tastebuds at Lauber’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor next to the
East Troy, WI was the westernmost stop on the electric railway from Milwaukee, known as the Milwaukee Electric Railway & Light Company. SUBMITTED PHOTO Visitor’s Guide
depot or enjoy a delicious meal at Ivan’s on the Square in East Troy. The East Troy Electric Railroad is a notfor-profit 501(c)(3) organization run by volunteers committed to the operation and preservation of historic trolleys and interurban railcars. All proceeds and sales benefit the
BOONE COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL
2022 CONCERTS IN THE PARK
education and preservation work of this museum. Your contributions are tax deductible as permitted by law. What you should know Parking is FREE! Smoke-free trains run rain or shine.
You may board at either end (Elegant Farmer or East Troy Depot). Visa, Mastercard and Discover are accepted. Public washrooms are available. Train schedule, ticket prices & equipment subject to change without notice.
d s rain eeken T e Rid very W ys E ctober e l l o Tr -O And May
Sunday evenings at 6:30 pm. Free to the public. Bring your own lawn chair or a blanket.
Rain Site will be the Community Building, 111 West First Street, Belvidere, for all concerts except the June 26, July 17 and July 24 concerts. Current CDC COVID guidelines will be followed
June 5
July 3
June 12
July 10
June 19
July 17
Baltic Mill Stage in Belvidere Park The Emily Hurd Trio
Baltic Mill Stage in Belvidere Park Rockford Wind Ensemble
Baltic Mill Stage in Belvidere Park Grass Attack
Baltic Mill Stage in Belvidere Park The Groove Hotel
Baltic Mill Stage in Belvidere Park Salsa del Norte
June 26
Take scenic 14-mile train rides on historic trolleys or interurban cars on the last remaining segment of the Milwaukee Electric Railway & Light Company track. Round trips from our East Troy depot and museum to Indianhead Park in Mukwonago. We stop at the popular Elegant Farmer store and deli. Regular trains Friday-Saturday-Sunday, June through October. Saturday and Sunday only in April and May. Dinner Trains are available thrvoughout the season. Charters available anytime for groups from 25 to 100.
Vintage Wings and Wheels Museum: 6:30 p.m. Trinadora Rocks
Heritage Days at the Boone County Fairgrounds: 7 p.m. before the fireworks The Silver Creek Band
July 24
Candlewick Lake Recreation Center: 6:30 p.m. Peach’s Beach Party
We are pleased to thank all of our sponsors this season - Blackhawk Bank, Byron Bank, Candlewick Lake Association, Sue Flott, Gary and Joan Ollmann, Savant Wealth Management, Solutions Bank, and UW Health. We would also like to thank the Belvidere Park District and the Community Building Complex Committee of Boone County. The Boone County Arts Council acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council Agency.
Visit us at www.boonecountyarts.com @boonecountyartscouncil on Instagram and on Facebook
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Visit www.easttroyrr.org or call 262.642.3263 for more information
CHECK OUT OUR CHRISTMAS TRAIN STARTING NOV. 26 THRU DEC. 19
East Troy Railroad Museum Inc.
2002 CHURCH STREET, EAST TROY, WI 53120 (262) 642-3263 www.easttroyrr.org 418110
2022 AREA VISITORS GUIDE
History of the Belvidere Park District As Belvidere grew in population the need for park spaces increased, both to provide open recreational land and as a beautifying element to attract new families and businesses to settle in Belvidere. On Nov. 4, 1919, an election was held resulting in 764 yea votes versus 280 nay votes to establish the Belvidere Township Park District and to elect a board of five park commissioners. On March 9, 1920 a 55-acre parcel, known as the Baltic Mill tract, was purchased from Frank Taylor for $14,500. It included the Mill, a residence on West Lincoln Avenue, the river dam, the mill race, Gooseberry Island, and a parcel of land on the south bank of the Kishwaukee River, which included an entrance from West Locust Street to the dam. The Baltic Mill was eventually also converted to shelter space and in 1935 it was used as a community theater. Subsequent land purchases over the next few months added land adjacent to the Taylor property to the present park boundaries. Gooseberry Island, the land between the mill race and the river, was cleared of brush and debris, and picnic tables, fireplaces, and water were added to create family picnic spots. Access to the island was provided when two suspension bridges were installed, one crossing the mill race near Baltic Mill and the other spanning the river from the south. Another goal of the park district election was realized on Nov. 29, 1920, when the three and onehalf acre Doty Flats property, located on the south bank of the river, was bought from Frank Stoner for $3,250. Over the next decades, the area was frequently rented for athletic and community events. In 1946, the park board sold Doty Park to the school district, and the property was later called Legion Field. On June 11, 1921, a “bathing beach” opened on the banks of the Kishwaukee River on East Lincoln Avenue at the river’s bend. Called Marshall Park, it was named for George Marshall who leased the land to the park district. A bathhouse, concession stand, benches, picnic tables, fireplaces, a diving float, slides, and a band stand were all part of the park. Across the street, four clay tennis courts were also built and they became the site of many city tournaments. In 1925 a log cabin was built for the use of lifeguards in the summer and the caretaker in the winter. The beach was immensely popular with Belvidere city and township residents and it was the site of exhibition performances by famous swimmers including Johnny Weissmuller. In 1933, in the depths of the depression, the park board decided they could not afford the expense of the beach’s operation and voted to close it for the summer. A group of concerned citizens and community organizations pledged financial aid and the beach was opened on schedule. After the summer of 1937, the bathing beach was not operated by the district, but the park itself remained open. For a time the board considered building the new pool on the site, but the idea was not popular with the neighborhood, and the pool was sited in Belvidere Park. In late 1946, the Marshall Park property was sold and the leased land was returned to the Marshall family. In 1938, after the closing of Marshall Beach, discussion began on the feasibility of building a park district swimming pool. WPA funding paid for over half the cost and in June, 1941 the pool opened. It included spacious changing rooms, a separate children’s wading pool and a concession stand located in the log cabin, which had been moved from Marshall Park. In 1979, a new children’s pool and concession stand were constructed inside the
pool fences. In 1984, a renovation project updated the 43 year old swimming pool. In 1994 the bathhouse was renovated to accommodate the growth of swimmers and individuals with disabilities. Belvidere Parks’ 105 acres provided baseball fields, play areas, picnic spots, fishing, and the swinging bridge. The Activity Center off West Locust Street had been built during this period, providing sheltered picnic space in the summer and ice skating in the winter. Gradually, as the 1970’s ended, a new era began for the parks. In 1979, a full time recreation coordinator to provide year-round programming and a Superintendent of Maintenance were hired. In 1982, the first Park Director position was created. This came as a result of changing community needs and park expansion. In 1979, the city had conveyed Harkless Park to the park district. A tot-lot play area on East Avenue was built and organized children’s sports were becoming popular. In 1986 land on Town Hall Road was leased and developed as soccer fields in response to the popularity of the sport. Beginning in 1987, a period of expansion, restoration, and growth have made more parks and services available for the enjoyment of the growing Boone County population. In 1988, using the first ever state grant money, the Burgess Street Boat Launch was built. The next year, the first mile loop of the Kishwaukee Riverfront Path was completed in Belvidere Park. Over the next several years, the path was extended to the boat launch site, Doty Park was re-acquired by the district in 1992, a walking bridge was built over the Kishwaukee River, and the recreational path was extended into Doty Park. In 1994, the final phase of the project got underway with the revitalization of Doty Park. The project included building a handicapped accessible playground, a large shelter with restrooms, a boat dock, and two large open field areas. In 2000 the Embankment Skatepark was added. Other river access facilities include two canoe launches. Red Horse Bend is located on the north bank of the Kishwaukee River just east of Belvidere. Hickory Bill’s Island, west of the park off the Appleton Road bridges, was finished in 1998. It includes a picnic site, a gradual path downhill to the canoe launch area, and a large parking area. One of the goals of the 90’s park board was to work with the schools to create more play facilities for children. The park’s own Kiddieland had been a popular playground since the late 60’s, but was inaccessible to many Belvidere children. Since the park district didn’t own land in the township’s different neighborhoods, it chose instead to help the grade school’s parent-teacher organizations fund school playgrounds. Perry, Caledonia, Lincoln, Washington, Kishwaukee, and Logan Schools were all recipients of that aid. The Meehan School agreement took the park/school concept several steps further. The park district contributed toward the construction of the gym and recreational facilities at Meehan School in exchange for the use of those facilities for community after-hours and summer programs and activities. At the same time, the board of commissioners were exploring opportunities for building parks within Belvidere Township, but outside the city limits. Aberdeen Park is one such park. Built on ten acres off Orth Road, it includes tennis courts, sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits, shuffleboard court, playground, ball diamond, soccer field, a walking path, a shelter with restrooms, and two
parking lots. This property was acquired through use of the county land-cash ordinance and developer contributions. In 1992, the park district helped establish the Park District Foundation to provide a means for local people to donate lands for public use and, through its 501C3 status, receive tax deductions. Completely independent from the park board, the foundation has its own members and by-laws, and is able to assist local groups and individuals with charitable gifts. The Baltic Mill has always been a historic landmark in Belvidere, and in order to preserve it into the new century, an extensive stabilization project was undertaken. The mill was renovated to provide historical artifacts, a meeting room, a public restroom and house the Boone County Arts Council office. Adjacent to the Baltic Mill is a stage area where “Concerts in the Park” are provided for the community. Completed in 1995, the mill is a positive example of community historic preservation merged with practical function. In 1992 Belvidere Park projects included acquiring and preserving the headgates on the Mill Race and the Mill Race Renovation Project, which included dredging the mill race, removing brush and scrub trees, reconstructing the weir, and relandscaping the park grounds. Those efforts have opened the vistas of the park as well as correcting serious structural and environmental problems. The Park District Administration Building was completed in 1999 after years of working out of the former caretaker’s house. This beautiful new facility includes centrally located offices, files, storage, and meeting spaces to provide for growth and anticipated needs well into the future. As it plans for the future, the Park District has several projects in process. One is Fridh Recreation Area located at 9th Street and 14th Avenue. Currently the park includes a soccer field and parking lot. Future expansion includes a playground, ball field, shelter and restrooms. It also owns a 90 acre land parcel between the Belvidere Cemetery and the Fairgrounds, north of Belvidere, which it plans to develop into a sports park. Prairie Fields Sport Park will encompass many activities for all ages – soccer fields, baseball and softball diamonds, senior activity area, shelters, playgrounds, concessions, sand volleyball courts, basketball courts, tennis courts restrooms, batting cages, neighborhood park and a path looping the sports park. This land almost doubles the land holdings of the park district. Final plans are underway to begin construction in the near future. The goal of the Belvidere Township Park District is to meet the recreational needs of the community well into the next century. Much of the credit for the existence of the park district goes to one man, William Bowley. A tireless advocate, he lobbied for the creation of the Belvidere Park District and was elected as one of the first park commissioners, a job he held for 27 years until his death in 1946. For many of those years he also served as the General Park Superintendent. As a boy, his father had been part owner of the Baltic Mill and Bill loved the area. Many consider Bill Bowley to be father of Belvidere Park. He was instrumental in getting old Gooseberry Island, which was then no better than a dump, cleaned up and made into a park. One of his most visible efforts, evident even today, is the 1,700 trees he planted to landscape Belvidere Park. ~ By Marsha Mehl
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2022 AREA VISITORS GUIDE
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Jarrett Prairie Center Museum
The Byron Forest Preserve has something for everyone! Golf & Dining - Banquet Rooms - Museums Trails - Programs - Preschool - Field Trips PrairieView Golf Club PrairieFire Golf & Grill Weiskopf Observatory Heritage Farm Museum
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7993 N. River Rd., Byron • (815) 234-8535 www.byronforestpreserve.com
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Visit the Burpee Museum of Natural History in Rockford Located at 737 N. Main St. Rockford, Burpee Museum has four floors of modern exhibits. Exhibits are specimen based, with strong interactive and educational components. The first floor is dedicated to paleontology; take a walk through time as your visit exhibits chronicling key times in earth’s history. The Geoscience exhibit is located on the second floor, where rocks and minerals, fluorescent minerals, and the geology of the region can be found. Third floor exhibits include the Windows to Wilderness exhibit on Rock River Valley biology and the First People exhibit which introduces visitors to different Native American cultures. Located in the lower level is the Dean Olson Viewing lab where fossil and biological specimens are prepared for exhibit. Jane: Diary of a Dinosaur After four years of preparation, Jane is now on display as the centerpiece of a new exhibit at Burpee Museum. Jane: Diary of a Dinosaur. Come discover what happened during the 66 million years she lay buried, visit the expedition’s Montana base camp, and view Jane’s fully restored 21-foot skeleton. Carboniferous Coal Forest State-of-the-art technology is combined to create a two-story tall prehistoric coal forest. Thrill to the thunder and lightning of a sudden tropical rainstorm as you explore our local landscape, insects and amphibians as they existed 300 million years ago.
Windows to Wilderness Focusing on the wildlife of the Rock River Valley, Windows to Wilderness offers a fun, interactive approach to the world around us. Prepare yourself to look at our environment through a new set of eyes as you explore this hands-on exhibit, encounter live animals and re-discover your own habitat! Dean Olson Viewing Lab The Dean and Nancy Olson Specimen Viewing Lab is a window into how the Museum works. Located on the lower level, the viewing area’s large glass windows reveal the biology and paleontology laboratories where specimens are prepared for the Museum’s collections and exhibits. Homer, the sub-adult Triceratops is found in and just outside the lab. Burpee Museum maintains more than 60 thousand items in its permanent collection! Burpee Museum of Natural History is located at 737 N. Main St. Rockford, The Museum features four floors of specimen based exhibits, with strong interactive and educational components. SUBMITTED PHOTO Visitors Guide
The Ordovician Sea What did Rockford look like millions of years ago? Here’s a hint: you’d need your bathing suit! Discover the ancient sea that covered this region and see fossils of the critters who called it home long before we did. Geoscience Visit the second level to learn how our earth was formed and the forces still at work shaping our planet. Included are exhibits on economic, world and regional geology.
See extraordinary displays of unusual rocks, gems, and minerals; and information on plate tectonics, land formations, and more. The First People Your trip through time continues with the history of humankind in North America. The First People features a full-size wigwam and tipi, an American Bison, and a dugout canoe that you can climb into! Make sure to visit the video kiosk on your way out to learn what it’s like to live in a wigwam, hear Native American stories, and watch a Pow Wow.
Museum Admission General Admission: Adults $12; Children (ages 3–12) $10 Children 3 and under: FREE; Members: FREE Donation Day*: Tuesday (*Additional fees may apply for temporary and traveling exhibits.) Contact the museum for more information at 815-965-3433 or 815--489-7970. General public hours Monday-Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Accessibility: Burpee Museum has four floors of accessible exhibits. Visitors using wheelchairs or strollers may be dropped off at the Main Entrance, with free handicapped parking nearby. Wheelchairs are available free of charge; ask at the front desk inside the lobby.
right: Blue Grass Reunion Band plays for our Concerts in the Park series at Baltic Mill. Every Sunday at 6:30 p.m. (through July 20) the Boone County Arts Council hosts a free concert. left: Paint on State in Belvidere is hosted by the Boone County Arts Council annually. BOONE COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL PHOTOS Visitor’s Guide
Boone County Arts Council: Promoting the arts since 1987 The Boone County Arts Council was established in 1987 by the Belvidere Area Chamber of Commerce and functions as an all-volunteer 501-c3 organization. The BCAC office is inside the Historic Baltic Mill at 920 W. Lincoln Avenue, Belvidere. The mission of the Boone County Arts Council is to enhance the quality of life for people throughout Boone County by
promoting the endowment, development, and enjoyment of the Arts. The BCAC has developed and sponsored many programs designed to enrich the life of Boone County residents including the Summer Concerts in the Park, the county-wide Student Art Show, the Fifth Grade Arts Festival, Paint on State, and the Downtown Mural Project.
The BCAC has also published a booklet on the public art in Boone County as well as a pamphlet on the murals. We work in close partnership with numerous organizations in our community. The world is opening up as the pandemic begins to wind down and the Boone County Arts Council is getting ready for a summer of terrific events.
Belvidere Heritage Days will take place on June 25, 26, and 27, 2021. The BCAC will be hosting “Paint on State” again on June 26. Several murals will be restored the same weekend. The Summer Concerts in the Park will begin on Sunday, June 6, on the Baltic Mill Stage in Belvidere Park. Current COVID guidelines will be in place for all events.
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2022 AREA VISITORS GUIDE
Rock Cut State Park offers natural fun for families
Chiseled out of the state’s far northern region is Rock Cut State Park in Winnebego County. Nearby are other “rocky” landmarks - the mighty Rock River and the place where wagons once forded it, Rockford. It’s an area of rolling plains, interesting history and recreational variety. Two lakes set off the park’s 3,092 acres. Pierce Lake, with 162 acres, is a retreat for people wanting to fish, ice fish or ice skate. A second 50-acre Olson Lake is especially for swimmers. Rounding out the park’s recreational options are camping, hiking, horseback trails and cross-country skiing. Whatever the season, you can be sure there’s quite a bit of activity going on at Rock Cut State Park. Hours Summer hours (April – Oct.) 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.? Winter hours (November March) 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
History By the middle of the 17th century, Miami-speaking tribes of Native Americans entered the region of Rock Cut State Park after the Iroquois drove them from territory on the southern end of Lake Michigan. From about 1655 until 1735, the Rock River was within the range of the Mascouten, who were also pushed westward by the Iroquois. The Winnebago ranged southward from Wisconsin to the Rock River from the 1740s until 1837, while the river’s upper portion was on the periphery of the Fox and Sauk territory from about 1765 to 1833. By 1800, the Potawatomi, Ottawa and Chippewa nations had extended their range into the area, but they ceded their lands to the United States 32 years later following the Black Hawk War. Settlement of Winnebago County began after the Black Hawk War The region that is now Rock Cut State Park was settled partly by Scots around Argyle - named for their Scottish home of Argyllshire - and partly by Canadians, New Yorkers and New Englanders around
the town of Harlem - named for New York City’s Harlem. The Illinois version of Harlem was moved in 1859 when the KenoshaRockford Rail Line was built. The dammed waters of Pierce Lake now cover much of the railroad bed within the park, although portions of the railroad grade are visible along Willow Creek below the spillway. But blasting operations in a rock outcrop that railroad crews conducted during the 1859 construction left lasting impressions here - they cut through rock to provide a suitable roadbed and gave Rock Cut its name.
The Park’s present Because water serves as a welcome mat to birds and animals, wildlife watchers to the area won’t be disappointed. Birders report good viewing, with waterfowl being abundant. Deer, fox, muskrat, woodchuck and beaver inhabit Rock Cut State Park as do opossum, raccoon and both gray and fox squirrel. Over 100 types of wildflowers offer a showy display each spring and summer, while the hardwood trees dazzle you with their reds and golds every fall. Trails The trail system at Rock Cut offers opportunities for hiking (40 miles), mountain biking (23 miles), and equestrian (14 miles) and has been completely remarked. Trail users will find updated trail head/information signs at picnic areas and trail access points for trail information and regulations. Only certain trails are designated for mountain biking and equestrian use and are identified by colored trail markers. Blue trails are for mountain biking and hiking, yellow trails are for equestrian and hiking and red trails are restricted to hiking only. Trail activities have been divided into “summer and winter” seasons to provide quality seasonal programs. The “summer program” (mountain biking and equestrian) trails are open April 1 – Nov. 30. These regulations for mountain biking and equestrian use will be strictly enforced and violators are subject to fines. The “winter program” provides
above: Rock Cut State Park, one of Northern Illinois’ larger state parks, offers camping, hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming, horse and bike trails, cross country ski trails, ice skating, and concessions. RACVB PHOTO Visitor’s Guide
for groomed cross-country trails as conditions permit. The groomed trails are best accessed at the Lions Club Picnic Area. As a courtesy, hikers and snow shoers are asked to use other trails that have not been groomed for skiing. A winter trail guide is being developed to better describe the trails groomed for classical skiing and those groomed for freestyle/ skating. Rock Cut also offers access (at the Pierce Lake spillway) to the Willow Creek Bike Trail and Perryville Path, a paved trail system connecting the local communities of Loves Park and Rockford to Rock Cut State Park.
Camping For those who want to include an overnight stay in their visit to Rock Cut, the park offers 28 Class A-Premium sites for reservation, 180 Class A-Premium sites and 60 Class B-Premium sites on a first-come first-serve basis. There is also a primitive cabin available for reservation. It has electricity, but does not have water or plumbing facilities. Open year round, the campgrounds provide water, electricity, sanitary dump stations, showers, toilets, a boat launch and playground equipment. Only electricity and pit toilets are available in the winter season. Equestrian camping is restricted to a site on Hart Road. Groups of more than 25 persons need advance permission from the site superintendent before they can enter
the park, and all campers require a permit from park personnel. Alcohol is prohibited in the campground.
Fishing, boating One of the park’s most popular activities is fishing Pierce Lake - named for state Rep. William Pierce of Rockford, who served in the legislature from 19511966 and who proposed the first land acquisition for the park in 1955. The lake is stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish and channel catfish, as well as bullhead, northern pike, muskellunge and walleye. Pierce Lake will allow any size engine on the lake, however, engines over 10 hp can operate at No Wake speed only. Paddle & Trail Bait Shop is open at Pierce Lake with Canoe, Kayak and boat rentals, they also have various types of bait available. for more information and prices, call 815-885-4740. Pierce lake also has docks and two launching ramps available. Olson Lake also offers excellent fishing. Carry on watercraft and electric motors only. Hunting The hunting program allows disabled hunters an opportunity to participate in a Department of Natural Resources program for managing the deer herd and turkey populations at Rock Cut State Park. • CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
Winnebago-Boone Farm Breakfast set for Saturday, June 11 The 23rd Annual Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau® Foundation Farm Breakfast will be held June 11, at Friendly Franseen Acres, located at 22799 Hwy. 76, Poplar Grove, Ill. Breakfast consisting of all-you-can-eat pancakes, whole hog sausage, applesauce, ice cream, milk and coffee will be served from 6:30 a.m. until 11 a.m. Activities include goat milking (approximately 6:30 to 8 a.m.) horse drawn wagon rides (weather permitting), children’s games, goats and other farm animals, robotics, 50/50 raffle, antique tractor display, the Matt Wundrow Band and more. The cost is $10 for adults, $5 children ages 6-10, and children 5 and under are free. All proceeds go to the Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau Foundation to support ag education. Like Winnebago-Boone Farm Breakfast on Facebook; visit https://www. winnebagoboonefarmbureau.org/foundation-events.html or call the Farm Bureau office at 815-962-0653 for more information.
2022 AREA VISITORS GUIDE
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Explore vendors and enjoy food, music Friday evenings in Rockford The Rockford City Market is run by a local Rockford non-profit called the Rock River Development Partnership. What started as a “farmers market on steroids” concept in a brainstorming session, morphed into the Outdoor Rockford City Market. For the past 10+ seasons the Outdoor Rockford City Market has operated in the heart of downtown Rockford, Ill., bringing thousands of people downtown every Friday night during the summer. We intentionally prioritize local makers—growers, bakers, artists, and artisans—so that we can keep striving to connect the community to local small business and entrepreneurs. That has always been the primary goal of our non-profit. Our first Outdoor Market was held in May of 2010. It definitely could have been described as “small, but mighty.” There was no pavilion at the time, but our vendor booths were stretched out in their usual parking lot and extended down Water St. and Market St. We hoped to grow our Market bigger and better in time, but we didn’t expect the amount of growth to happen so quickly.
By 2013 we were reaching 5,000 patrons almost every Friday night (70,000 over the whole summer!) and we were quickly learning that we needed to find additional restrooms, additional trash receptacles, and additional summer staff. It was clear our dream of creating a fun, family-friendly weekly environment for the community to support locals farmers and makers was well received. In 2015 we began construction on the Pavilion. With five successful Outdoor Rockford City Markets under our belt, we were eager to continue growing. We knew if we wanted to continue truly being a ‘rain or shine’ event, we’d need shelter. This led to a partnership with the City of Rockford and a brand new pavilion in the center of downtown. Because of the pavilion, our Markets now offer shade and shelter from any unforeseen rain. Construction was wrapped up by the summer of 2015, just in time for our 6th Outdoor Rockford City Market season! We had 65 vendors participating and it was our biggest season yet!
top: The local band Minimal entertains under the Pavilion at a past Rockford City Market. above: Thousands of local residents and visitors from out of town gather at the Rockford City Market on Friday evenings throughout the summer. ROCKFORD CITY MARKET PHOTOS Visitor’s Guide
In 2015 we also partnered with a local Saturday morning famers market just north of the Pavilion at Auburn & Main St. At the time, the North End Commons Market had been meeting Saturday mornings in the parking lot behind the Norwegian. We partnered with the participating farmers and vendors, moved the Market across the street to a more visible parking lot, and welcomed them to the Market family under the new name of The North End City Market. The same group of farmers still meet every Saturday morning May-October. In the summer of 2019, we opened our Indoor Market building! Our goal for this building was to be able to continue our work of hosting community-centered events in downtown Rockford year round! We didn’t want to solely be working in the community MaySeptember, so we restored this gorgeous 1920’s piece of Rockford history from the ground up, conveniently just steps away from our Outdoor Market Pavilion! We wanted ample space for indoor events and winter markets, we wanted a breathtaking historic event space to host weddings and private events, we wanted a 24/7 state of the
Alp & Dell Cheese Store
Alp & Dell Cheese Store is located at 657 2nd St, Monroe, Wis. For more information call 608-328-3355 SUBMITTED PHOTO Visitor’s Guide
art commercial kitchen to help local food entrepreneur begin their businesses, and we wanted to be able to lease out parts of our building to permanent restaurants and bakeries. Restoring the building was not an easy task…A project that was supposed to take nine months ended up taking nineteen months. If you’ve been inside the Rockford City Market building…then you know that enduring our long season of construction, restoration, and rebuilding was well worth it. In the summer of 2019 we were overjoyed to open up our doors to the public, officially making our long-term dream of a year-round public space in downtown Rockford a reality. The Outdoor Rockford City Market is open on Fridays from May 20 through Sept. 30; 4 to 8:30 p.m.; and 4 to 7:30 p.m. after Labor Day. The North End City Market is open Saturdays May 21 through Oct. 15, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Rockford City Market Building is open Monday through Saturday, varies by business. Closed on Sundays. See rockfordcitymarket.com for a music schedule.
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2022 AREA VISITORS GUIDE
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On Oct. 29, 2011 the Rockford Park District opened the doors to Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. Second St., Rockford. SUBMITTED PHOTO Visitor’s Guide
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Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens: Tropical oasis in the city Safety has been and will continue to be one of our top priorities.We have worked with and followed guidelines from the CDC, IDPH, Restore Illinois and local health officials to develop procedures and protocols to ensure we can provide a fun and safe recreational experience. Our park district team has and will continue to increase efforts to clean and sanitize our facilities and program areas in accordance with CDC guidelines. We have incorporated creative ways to encourage and promote social distancing, implemented health screenings for both employees and participants, as well as updated our eligibility requirements to ensure the health and safety of all during this time. The Nicholas Conservatory On Oct. 29,2011, the Rockford Park District opened the doors to a brand new facility, Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. Second St., Rockford. Situated along the banks of the beautiful Rock River in Sinnissippi Gardens, Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens brings the tropics to the Midwest. The entire facility is the third largest conservatory in Illinois with a total of 22,000 square feet, and at the highest point will stand 52 feet. A tropical setting includes an 11,000-square-foot plant exhibition area complete with water features, seating areas, and sculptures, all in a tropical plant setting. In early 2004, the Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners selected Sinnissippi Park as the site for a centerpiece project for the District’s 100-year anniversary celebration. Sinnissippi Park was the first land purchased by the newlyformed Rockford Park District in 1909. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens is named after the Nicholas family, who in March 2006, announced their donation of $2,150,000 toward the Conservatory project in honor of their parents, William and Ruby Nicholas. Aside from the generous donation from the Nicholas family, nearly 1,600 donors contributed to the Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Public Campaign Project. Greenhouse vs. Conservatory What’s the difference? The former greenhouse was constructed in 1924 and was in need of significant repairs. A greenhouse is a building where plants are cultivated. A conservatory is used to display tropical plants and displays, and
can be used for social gatherings. The original 15-foot high Greenhouse’s purpose was to grow flowers and plants that could be used throughout the Rockford Park District’s parks and facilities. This purpose changed as the Park District grew, and it became impractical for the Greenhouse plantings to support the entire District. Over the years, the Greenhouse was used to host a variety of seasonal flower shows, but the building was not originally designed for this purpose. The former Greenhouse will be memorialized with a rendering and display incorporated into the new Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens facility. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Summary of Amenities Indoor and Outdoor Gardens Open to the Public (year-round); Growing Greenhouse; Meeting Room and Classroom Space (available to rent); Tropical Destination for Small Weddings, Receptions, and Catered Events; Children’s Educational and Play Area; Garden Gate Gift Shop ; Sculptures; Catering Kitchen; Outdoor Terrace Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Fast Facts: Large palms and tropical trees came from nurseries in Homestead, Fla. Temperature inside the Conservatory is anywhere between 70˚ and 105˚ Every plant or tree has a label with the common and Latin name Farthest Traveling Object: Aneityum palm from Vanuatu Islands of the Pacific Heaviest Tree: Bismark Palm weighing over 6000 lbs (3 tons) Longest Installation of a Tree: Bismark Palm – 8 hours, 3 machines, and a dozen workers Regular Admission Adults: $8 (Resident) $10 (Non-Resident) Seniors (65+): $6 (Resident) $8 (NonResident) Veterans $6 (Resident) $8 (Non-Resident) Ages 5-1:7 $6 (Resident), $8 (NonResident) Ages 3-4 $3 (Resident), $4 (NonResident) Ages 2 and under, free Hours Sundays and Mondays: CLOSED Tuesday-Friday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. $4 (Resident), $5 (non-resident Wednesdays: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
2022 AREA VISITORS GUIDE
New Glarus to host Polkafest June 10-11
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Visit New Glarus, America’s Little Switzerland, this June 10 and 11 for Polkafest, one of the community’s longest running festivals! Polkafest offers live polka music under the big tent downtown as well as at local bars and restaurants – bands include the David Austin Band, Tom Brusky Band, and Puempel’s Polka Poppers. New to dancing the polka? Bring the family Saturday morning and learn to polka at 11:30 a.m. Taking place the same weekend in New Glarus is Beer, Bacon & Cheese, a wildly popular sampling event boasting over 40 vendors who offer unlimited samples of local beers, meats, and cheeses. Beer, Bacon & Cheese is a ticketed event and has already sold out, however, a free drawing for two pairs of tickets will take place on Friday night at Polkafest at 9 p.m.. Be there to win! Polkafest hours are: Friday, June 10, from 5 to 10 p.m.; and Saturday, June 11, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Polkafest is put on by the New Glarus Chamber of Commerce and is made possible by major sponsors Bank of New Glarus, BNG Investment Services, Chalet Landhaus Inn, Jack Link’s-New Glarus, New Glarus Brewing Company, Puempel’s Olde Tavern, Whitney’s Academy of Dance, and Woodford State Bank. Besides the always popular festivals, New Glarus offers unique shops, restaurants, museums, and wine and beer tastings – visit swisstown.com to learn more or to order a free visitor guide! top: Visit New Glarus, America’s Little Switzerland, this June 10 and 11 for Polkafest. right: Polkafest offers live polka music under the big tent downtown as well as at local bars and restaurants. SUBMITTED PHOTOS Visitor’s Guide
ROCK CUT STATE PARK Swimming Olson Lake Beach will be operated this summer (Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend) by contract of Beachwater Lifeguard & Lake Patrol. The Lake is open from noon to 7 p.m. Admission is only $5 for anyone over 48”, $2.50 for any under 48”, and free for all kids three years of age and younger. For additional information call 815-885-9084. or view their website at www.beachwatch.net. Picnicking, concession Knowing that a visit to a state park is more fun when there’s food to be enjoyed, Rock Cut has picnic areas scattered throughout the park. Each is complete with tables, outdoor stoves, and pit toilets. Red Oak and Puri Crest have playgrounds. Check out the newest addition, Lone Rock Cafe features wireless internet, a variety of food items and drinks
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including smoothies and blended coffees. They are open May – October from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. daily, For additional information call 815/885-4740. Facilities for the disabled Several features make Rock Cut State Park accessible to the disabled. Two fishing piers are available, including a covered pier at the Lions Club day use area. The area, which is totally accessible for the disabled, features paved walkways, toilets, and a picnic shelter. The park’s campground area has flush toilets and showers that can be used by disabled visitors. Handicapped parking spaces are located in all of the park’s lots. Directions I-90 West to Rockford. Take the Highway 173 Exit. Go West for one-half mile to the Park Entrance.
JARRETT PRAIRIE CENTER The deck also enhances the already unique space for those who rent the facilities for family gatherings, weddings, and other social and corporate events. Also available for rental groups is a state-of-the-art kitchen area sponsored by Prairie Forge Group of St. Charles, Ill. who served as architects for the 2016 museum renovation project. OSF Medical Group was also a generous sponsor of the renovation.
• CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3
Jarrett Prairie Center is located at 7993 North River Road, Byron, Ill. Hours Sunday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hours may vary due to private rentals. For more information call 815-234-8535 x200. Visitors can take a step out on the 2,600 square-foot wraparound outdoor observation deck to take a look at the scenery for miles as the Jarrett Prairie Center is located on the third highest point in Ogle County. The deck also enhances the already unique space for those who rent the facilities for family gatherings, weddings, and other social and corporate events. BYRON FOREST PRESERVE PHOTO Visitor’s Guide
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Summer Fun in Belvidere Starts with Us June
July
Need to chill? William Grady Pool is a sure cure to beat the heat. Located in Belvidere Park, 916 West Lincoln Avenue. Open Swim hours: Mon-Thur, Sat & Sun: Noon-6pm; Friday Noon-8pm (weather permitting) $6 fee; $3 for under 6 years old and seniors 65+. Open thru August 21.
Join us for UNPLUG Illinois Day Saturday, July 9. Our annual event encourages everyone from 3 to 93 to get up, get out, unplug and engage with each other and the great outdoors. Featuring a full day of FREE events - from birdwatching to stargazing - with clinics, hikes even a Cardboard Boat Regatta. Plus, a taste of Belvidere with a variety of Food Trucks in the park. All throughout Belvidere Park, 1006 West Lincoln Avenue. Full schedule can be found at belviderepark.org
Concerts in the Park, Sunday evenings, 6:30pm on the Baltic Mill stage in Belvidere Park, June and July. See boonecountyarts.com for complete schedule. Every third Thursday thru October we’ll feature recent releases and family faves at our Drive-In Movie Night at Sundstrand Park, ONLY $15 CAR 2100 Newburg Road. Movies start at dusk.
September Features our premier end-of-Summer celebration - UP IN THE AIR. A “high-flying day of fun in our Prairie Fields Sports Park. Where kite-flyers of all types - pros to novice - gather to bring a colorful palette of shapes and sizes dancing in the sky. It’s a day of family fun featuring kite flying demos, games, face painting, crafts and a tasty assortment of Food Trucks to keep you going. September 10, 11am-3pm, at Prairie Fields, 1111 Fairgrounds Road.
belviderepark.org
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Friday, Aug. 19 • Saturday, Aug. 20 • Sunday, Aug. 21
Friday: Little Miss Peanut Saturday:
Rochelle Performing Arts • Pancakes in the Park • Hub City Cruisers Car and Motorcycle Show • Free Kids Zone • Haunted Maze - sponsored by the Moose Club • 50/50 raffle
Sunday:
Pancakes in the Park • Church Service • Parade Ice Cream Social • Haunted Maze - sponsored by the Moose Club
Soul 2 Soul Class Field Trip Burn N Bush Project Nostalgia High Infidelity The Beaux Band Ballet Folklorico Xochiquetzal
Crafters/Vendors, Food, Various Local Talent... ALL 3 DAYS!
Rochelle, IL • LHHFEST.COM
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– Main Stage –