Parks Our Town for 2023

2023-24

OUR TOWN Machesney Park and Loves Park

Published by Rock Valley Publishing, LLC

• 0% Municipal Property Tax & Low Cost of Living - Residing in Loves Park will benefit you in many ways, especially in the housing market. There is also a wide variety of housing options to choose from.

• 7 TIF Districts - (4 conventional, 3 industrial/job recovery) • Access to Higher Education - Seek higher education locally at Rock Valley College, Rockford University, or NIU-Rockford.

• Recreation - Loves Park is home to Rock Cut State Park with over 3,092 acres of land used for various activities like hiking, fishing, camping, boating, and biking. The Rockford Park District also offers the city with community parks, recreational paths, and a public pool. The city has numerous physical fitness centers as well.

• Great Business Community - In Loves Park we support our small and local business owners. We work together to help them achieve growth and expansion.

• Health Care - The heart of the midwest has several high quality and well-known health care facilities located all throughout the city.

Trunk or Treat Village of Machesney Park Oct. 28 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Light Up the Parks Parade Loves Park City Hall Nov. 19 at 5:30 p.m.

Rhythm of the Heart Music Festival - Loves Park City Hall July 27, 2024 from 1 - 10:30 p.m.

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Machesney Park 300 Roosevelt Rd. (Temporary Village Hall through January 2024 9942 N. Alpine Rd.) Machesney Park, IL 61115 Same phone number as below Office: 815-877-5432 Hours: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Meetings are held the first and third Mondays at 6 p.m. at Village Hall

Village Officials Village President, Steve Johnson The Village Clerk position is currently vacant. For all Clerk’s Office needs, Steve Johnson please contact Deputy Clerk Penny Village President Miller at 815-877-5432 or clerk@machesneypark.org.

Village Treasurer, Deborah L. Alms....................... 815-877-5432 Village Administrator, James Richter II Machesney Park Division-Winn.

County Sheriff Dept Non-Emergency.................... 815-282-2600 Harlem/Roscoe Fire.............................................. 815-623-7867 North Park Fire...................................................... 815-636-3051 North Park Water.................................................. 815-633-5461 Rock River Disposal.............................................. 815-965-2489

Machesney Park Early settlement dates back to the 1830s

The area that is presently known as Machesney Park was first settled when large areas of Northern Illinois were opened for settlement in the early 1830’s, after the end of the Black Hawk War. When the “township” form of government was first instituted, the majority of what is now known as Machesney Park was located within Harlem Township. The early Dutch settlers chose the name Harlem to remind them of the Netherlands. Early settlers were relatively few in number and farmed large tracts of land.

Residential development began to grow in the early 20th century and started to boom in the 1920’s. During this time, the Harlem Consolidated School District was formed to serve the educational needs of the growing community.

One of the community’s symbols in the early days was the Machesney Airport, founded in 1927 by barnstormer/ aviator Fred Machesney. The airport was located where the Machesney Park Town Center, formerly the Machesney Park Mall, stands today along the original Main St. which is now N. Second Street or IL-251.

The airfield was Rockford’s main airport until the 1950s, when the Greater Rockford Airport opened its doors. In 1928, a famous flight from Rockford to Sweden took off from the airport/field. The attempt failed as the two pilots crashed in Greenland, however, they were safely rescued after an exhausting search.

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VILLAGE OF

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Field of Honor Located in the Arthur W. Anderson Peace Park near the Loves Park City Hall, the Field of Honor was conceived by Anderson as a memorial to honor veterans who served in the five wars of the 20th century. Five vertical columns and eight resin-composite lifesized statues are set before a series of 40 American flags. A small column honors civilian contributions to the war efforts. Christopher Bennett of Keosauqua, Iowa, is the artist. It was designed by Gene Horvath with landscape design by John R. Cook & Associates. It’s maintained by the Rockford Park District and was dedicated Nov. 10, 1995.

JESSE FOX PHOTO Our Town

City of Loves Park from its beginning

The first record of ownership of the land that is now Loves Park shows Widow Strawn as having purchased 470 acres for $1,800. In 1897 she sold 236 acres to Francis and Margaret Weldon who farmed their acreage and used a portion of it for outings of Rockford’s Beefsteak Club.

The Park became known as Love’s Grove after 1901 when Rockford industrialist and civic leader Malcolm Love purchased the 236-acre tract of land along the Rock River from the Weldon Family.

Malcolm Love was a civic leader who had

once been an alderman in Rockford. Love’s property served as a gathering place for social events for several of his industrialist friends and became known as Love’s Park. Love’s Park also became a poplar excursion destination for those cruising the Rock River. A railroad soon cut through the area, and population boomed.

Records show that the transition from farmland to residential lots began in 1909 when Love sold a tract, which became Eastwood and Stockburger’s first 95-lot subdivision. But they weren’t thinking in

Loves Park officials

2023-24 PARKS OUR TOWN

Greg Jury

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Robert Burden

Mayor, Greg Jury 815-654-5030 City Clerk, Robert Burden 815-654-5034 City Treasurer, John Danielson 815-654-5027 Director of Community Development, Steve Thompson 815-654-5033 City of Loves Park 100 Heart Boulevard Loves Park, IL 61111 Office: 815-654-5030, Fax: 815-633-2359 Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday City Council meetings are held each Monday at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall.

Loves Park Police Department 815-654-5015 540 Loves Park Dr. Loves Park Police Chief Mike McCammond Loves Park Fire Department Non-emergency number 815-654-5049 1535 Windsor Road Loves Park Fire Chief James Hart Water Department 815-877-1421 Street Department 815-654-5040 Public Works 815-654-5033

terms of building a city... in fact they laid out large lots suitable for garden plots and chicken houses and called them “chicken farms.” Purchasers of the first lots used them in exactly the manner the developers envisioned.

The 1920’s roared in bringing business and industry including a newspaper and a gas station. The 20’s crept away leaving behind financial problems. An annexation to Rockford was resisted and the non-city took on more and more city attributes.

Again in 1927 and 1939 the community considered annexation to Rockford and again said no. In the early ‘40s other concerns took precedence. But the city was ready for self-government and incorporated as the City of Loves Park in 1947 with 4,500 residents and a municipal government of 8 aldermen and Mayor Homer E. Burton. From 1947-1949, a fire department, police department, and city hall were established with the help of volunteer contributions. The commercial and industrial sector continued to rise throughout this period, and the Parkside Citizen, a biweekly “news sheet,” addressed the new development and city issues.

By that time there was no question that the new city’s name should be Loves Park... the only question was whether or not to use the apostrophe. The voters decided to drop it... and Loves Park it became.

The 1950s brought modern growth to Loves Park. The city became a fully functional community, with a variety of amenities including a train station, grocery stores, and food markets, a library, churches, restaurants, and gas stations.

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As promised during the July 7, 1947, City Council meeting, Mayor Burton and the Police and Fire Committee immediately began organizing the Loves Park Fire Department.

Sept. 2, 1947, the Mayor appointed Roy E. York as the first Fire/ Police Chief for the Jerry Wiltfang City of Loves Park.

The Loves Park Fire Department originally was organized as an all-volunteer force with 11 charter members.

In 2018, Jerry Wiltfang became Chief of the Loves Park Fire Department and discovered the department was in dire need of change. Several meetings with City Council, the City opted to start full-time staffing and hired its first six full-time paid firefighters.

In March of 2019, recognizing the need for enhanced EMS services, the department started its first 24/7 ambulance and in February 2020, started a second. Currently LPFD operates with 18 full-time line personnel (16 part-time) and six full-time daily staff (two part-time).

On Sept. 27, 2022, Loves Park Fire Department announced the opening of a new East side station located at 5180 Rock Valley Parkway, located behind Carlson Ice Arena.

This was an existing building that has been remodeled to fit the needs of the Fire Department.

Chief Wiltfang stated, “This location will give the Department a much-needed presence on the East side of Loves Park. It will cut our response time in this area by 1/3.”

This project was funded through the Federal American Rescue Plan. Housed at this location will be an ambulance and a Quint.

A building dedication and open house took place Sept. 27.

The City of Loves Park will continue to operate two stations, this one and 1527 Windsor Road.

The Grand Avenue station was built in 1947 was originally the Loves Park City Hall. This station location does not allow for the growth of the department or the ability to house new equipment. Therefore, this location will close as a fire department and be utilized by the City of Loves Park public works.

North Park Fire District serves Machesney Park The North Park Fire Protection District provides fire, rescue, hazard, and emergency medical services to portions of Machesney Park and unincorporated Winnebago County, Illinois.

The District serves approximately 18,000 residents Joel Hallstrom covering 15 square miles of suburban residential, commercial, and light industrial occupancies. The district encompasses approximately two miles of the Rock River along with major thoroughfares such as Interstate 39/90 (the Jane Adams Memorial Tollway) and Illinois Route 251.

The District includes 6,500 households, 200 commercial structures and six public schools. The department responds to an average of 1,500 calls for service each year.

The North Park Fire Department

is comprised of approximately 50 personnel including one full-time fire chief, a part-time administrative assistant, and a combination of part-time and volunteer firefighters. The district is served by three fire stations housing a total of four front-line engines, including one capable of providing urban-wildland interface, one aerial truck, three squads, three command vehicles, one utility vehicle and one boat.

The North Park Fire Department is a member of the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System Division 8 along with 23 other area fire departments, providing apparatus and personnel during largescale emergencies.

For any information that has not yet been posted, including FOIA, please contact our administration office by emailing anytime npfd@npfpd.org or by calling 815-636-3051 (Monday Thursday 6 a.m. to 11 a.m.).

Joel Hallstrom, Chief Brian Kunce, Deputy Chief Keith McDonald, Deputy Chief Ted Berger, Deputy Chief Kevin Briggs, Deputy Chief

Harlem-Roscoe Fire serving northern Machesney Park The HarlemRoscoe Fire Protection District boundaries are irregular in shape due to the annexation of some of the district into cities. However, Harlem-Roscoe Fire Protection District is still one of the largest districts in the Chief Patrick Trollop county.

The boundaries are Stateline Road to the north, Dorr Road and Old River Road to the west, County Line Road to the east, and Gladys Road in Machesney Park to the south plus the town of Argyle. The department is also under contract to service the western half of Manchester Township Radio frequencies TAC #1 - 155.4375 and 158.8125 Scanner - 155.435 TAC #2 - 153.830 County Fire - 154.370 M.A.B.A.S. - 154.26

Insurance ratings In March 1, 2015, HRFDs new protection class went into effect.

For those of you that live in our fire district that has hydrants, our rating improved from a Class 5 to a Class 3.

For those who live in rural areas of our fire protection district without hydrants, but within 5 miles of our fire station, our rating improved from a Class 7 to a Class 5.

The mailing address for all three stations is: PO Box 450 Roscoe Ill. Locations: Station One -10544 Main St. Roscoe, Ill.; Station Two - 825 Ralston Road, Machesney Park, Ill.; Station Three - 13974 Willowbrook Road, Roscoe, Ill. Contacts: Emergency - Dial 911 Administration - 815-623-7867 Email - hrfdinfo@gmail.com Newsletter - hrfdsdrost@gmail.com Hours of operation Administration Offices are open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday

2023-24 PARKS OUR TOWN

Loves Park Fire Department: Serving the city since 1947

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Ski Broncs

The Ski Broncs water ski team performs throughout the summer months at Shorewood Park, 235 Evelyn Ave., Loves Park FILE PHOTO Our Town

Loves Park Lions Club Whenever Loves Park Lions Club gets together, problems get smaller and our communities get better. That’s because we help where help is needed right here in Loves Park and Machesney Park with unmatched integrity and energy.

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We welcome new members to join in our support of the Center for Sight and Hearing, Diabetes Awareness and other local Lions Club activities.

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We meet the 1st Wednesday of each month at Noon for lunch at Loves Park City Hall, 100 Heart Blvd., Loves Park For information call Nick Nelson at 815-289-0880

Your Independent Insurance Agency since 1941 6464 North Second Street Loves Park, IL 61111 815-633-6464 www.awanderson.com

More Volunteers Doing More Community Work In More Places Than Any Service Club Organization!

Loves Park Lions - Join Us!

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Machesney Park Loves Park Police Dept.: Police: Working Ready to protect and serve to keep you safe

LOVES PARK • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 Loves Park had one more great aspect that brought in residents – the lack of a municipal property tax.

Still true today, the city is known as a great place to live with a substantially low cost-of-living. Loves Park provides all of the amenities a community needs through the collection of sales tax within the commercial sector. In the 1950s, the Loves Park Toll Bridge, which crossed the Rock River at Riverside Boulevard and linked the city to Rockford, was built as a symbol of the growth and success of Loves Park. The tolls taken at the bridge provided revenue to pay for the bridge construction over a 40-year period, however, enough toll revenue was accumulated in only 12 years and the bridge construction was paid off early.

Another symbol of the success and prosperity of the Loves Park area was Kiddieland Park that opened in 1950 and closed in 1977. This small amusement park provided fun and entertainment for families, with rides for children, carnival rides and fun for people of all ages.

2023-24 PARKS OUR TOWN

The Village of Machesney Park has contracted its police services to the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department since 1981.

The Chief Policing Officer is Lieutenant Anthony Miceli. The Machesney Park Police Division is comprised of 20 patrol officers.

Deputy Chief Anthony Miceli began his career as a corrections officer with the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department Deputy Chief in 1997. He was sworn in as a Anthony Miceli patrol deputy in 2000, promoted to Sergeant in 2006 and Lieutenant in 2016 before his promotion to Deputy Chief in 2021. Deputy Chief Miceli worked his way through the ranks and held various assignments within the Sheriff’s Department during his years of service.

Deputy Chief Miceli is currently the commander of the Machesney Park Police division of the Sheriff’s Department. He is in charge of the department’s special operations division, which includes river and snow mobile patrols, forest preserve deputies and school resource deputies. Deputy Chief Miceli also runs the range and armory for the Sheriff’s Department.

Deputy Chief Miceli graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Illinois State University. He also has an advanced supervisor degree from Northwestern University.

The deputies assigned to the Village perform all the duties that the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department deputies perform, as well as enforcing village ordinances.

On a daily basis patrol deputies are assigned to assist school crossing guards at the Village’s grade schools. This initiative is very popular and helps reduce the speed of vehicular traffic to help assure the safety of school age children.

In addition to the grade schools, a patrol deputy assists in the morning in the Harlem High School parking lot and does a “walk through” during one of the lunch periods.

Residents are reminded of a few ongoing issues.

Most car burglaries occur to unlocked vehicles. By simply removing noticeable property from sight and locking your car doors, you will greatly reduce your chances of this happening.

The probability of residential burglaries can be reduced by keeping exterior and interior lights on in your home. With no lights on, it’s very apparent that there is nobody home, especially during the early evening hours. To assist in the prevention of residential burglaries, we are encouraging Neighborhood Watch Programs within the village.

Please call 1-815-319-6500 if you would like to participate in this program.

The Loves Park Police administrative division.

Department is a full Chief McCammond was service law enforcement promoted to Deputy agency, located at 540 Chief in August of Loves Park Dr. The 2014 and worked in department is made up of both operations and 41 sworn law enforcement administration priot to officers and four civilian being promoted to Chief support staff. of Police in March of The men and women 2022. of the department provide In addition, Chief 24-hour police protection McCammond holds and services to the 23,996 a Bachelor’s of Chief Mike Mccammond citizens, of the City of Science degree in Loves Park, and the countless Law Enforcement and Justice visitors and commuters each day.

Administration from Western Loves Park is located in the center Illinois University, and a Master’s of Winnebago County, which is in Public Administration from home to over 295,000 residents.

Columbia Southern University.

The department is comprised He is a graduate of the Federal of service areas, which Bureau of Investigation’s National include administration, patrol, Academy, Session No. 268, and investigations, narcotics, FBI Northwestern University’s School violent crimes task force, K-9 of Police Staff and Command, Teams, mental health crisis coSession No. 346. responder team, school resource Deputy Chief Shane Lynch has officer, regional crime deterrence, been with the department since and Crime Stoppers. It is the 2000 and was promoted to Deputy mission of the police department Chief in September of 2016. to enhance the quality of life in our Deputy Chief Lynch previously community, for all who live, work worked as a patrol officer, or come to visit. detective and detective sergeant.

Chief of Police Mike Deputy Chief Lynch oversees McCammond leads the police the operational needs of the department. Chief McCammond department, which include patrol, was hired as a patrol officer in June detective bureau and special of 1999. He worked in the patrol operations. Deputy Chief Lynch is division and was promoted to a graduate of St. Francis University sergeant in February of 2012. and the Northwestern University In June of 2013, Chief School of Police Staff and McCammond was transferred Command. to investigations and worked Follow us on Facebook and in the detective bureau, until Instagram @LovesParkPolice or 2014, when he moved to the on Twitter @LovesParkPD.

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Committee preserves memory of Harlem Village One doesn’t have to look far to find the roots of the Parks area

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Harlem Village occupied a tract of land at the northeast corner of Harlem and Forest Hills roads from 1859, when the railroad arrived, until 1937, when the railroad left.

A committee of 14 people, 13 with strong connections to the village, worked hard to be sure that little community isn’t forgotten.

A keystone blue granite monument, about 6-feet-by-6-feet in size, has information inscribed on it about Harlem Village and its historical significance to the Parks area. The inscription is flanked on four corners by renderings of the tworoom schoolhouse, grain elevator, grocery store and church.

There isn’t much left of the place that roughly 150 people once called home.

In its heyday, Harlem Village – situated on two streets, Henry and Bluff – also had a post office in the grocery store, a blacksmith’s shop, a town hall and a stagecoach shop. All were built around the village’s only water well.

It grew into a small center of commerce, transportation, education, and worship, serving the surrounding, mostly agricultural, area.

That actually was Harlem Village’s second location. It originally settled a bit further west, at the intersection of Harlem and Alpine roads. It moved east to be on the new railroad line, with a depot built a short distance from the grain elevator.

In those days the Kenosha Rockford Railroad Line traveled from Rockford to Kenosha, Wis., with stops in Harlem Village, Caledonia and Harvard. Twelve trains a day served the village with mail, freight and passenger service.

Harlem Methodist Church was the worship center though it was located a short distance to the west, next to Harlem Cemetery at the northeast corner of Harlem and Alpine roads, where it can be seen today.

In addition to three houses that remain on the parcel the only other building original to Harlem Village is town hall, which was moved to Midway Village and Museum Center, on Guilford Road in Rockford.

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A cooperative effort The village was annexed by the City of Loves Park in March 1982.

In 2013, Woodward Inc. purchased portions of the property as part of a $200 million project that now covers much of the land on the north side of Harlem Road, bordered by Forest Hills and Perryville Roads and Zenith Parkway.

Loves Park City Clerk Bob Burden, chairman of the 14-member committee,

Harlem Methodist Church was the worship center of Harlem Village starting in the mid-1850s.

Known today as New Wine Harvest Church, the building remains at the northeast corner of Harlem and Alpine roads, next to Harlem Cemetery.

FILE PHOTO Our Town

said Woodward is enthusiastic about the memorial project and is supporting it financially.

“They are great partners in this effort,” he said.

Committee member John Nelson, one of 11 former residents of Harlem Village, said the memorial project has been in the works for 40 years.

The village’s name came from Dutch settlers who relocated here from the

Harlem region of New York State, he said.

Another committee member, Patsy Peterson Board, still lives on the property, across from the house in which she was raised. She was baptized in the Methodist church and her uncle owned the grocery store. In addition, her daughter resides in one of the remaining three houses.

All said they’re pleased to be part of this effort to preserve the memory of Harlem Village and to have Woodward as a partner.

HARLEM SCHOOL DISTRICT:

Dedicated to academic excellence The Mission of the Harlem Consolidated School District, as a vital part of the community, is to help diverse learners realize their unlimited potential by providing an educational program dedicated to academic excellence and the development of strong character in a safe and respectful learning environment.

Fast facts about the Harlem School District The Harlem School District was established in 1910 and serves the City of Loves Park, Machesney Park and southern Roscoe.

District Superintendent is Terrell Yarbrough.

Enrollment - 6,566 students There are 1,126 staff members.

Harlem Schools

8605 N.Second St. Machesney Park 815-654-4500

Harlem High School

9229 N. Alpine Road Machesney Park 815-654-4511 Attendance Office 815-654-4560 Athletic Dept.

815-654-4578 Harlem 9th Grade Campus

1102 Evans Ave. Machesney Park 815-654-5484 Harlem Middle School

735 Windsor Rd. Loves Park 815-654-4510

Loves Park Elementary School

344 Grand Ave. Loves Park 815-654-4501

Support Services Sergeant Officer Jacobson from the Loves Park Police Department stops by Windsor Elementary School to hang out with students at recess. “We are thankful for our partnership,” staff said.

WINDSOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PHOTO Our Town

Machesney Elementary School

8615 N. Second St. Machesney Park 815-654-4509 Maple Elementary School

Ralston Elementary School

710 Ralston Rd. Machesney Park 815-654-4505

Rock Cut Elementary School

1405 Maple Ave. Loves Park 815-654-4502

7944 Forest Hills Rd. Loves Park 815-654-4506

Marquette Elementary School

Windsor Elementary School

8500 Victory Ln. Machesney Park 815-654-4503

Olson Park School

1414 Minihan Dr. Loves Park 815-654-4504 Parker Early Learning Center

808 Harlem Rd., Loves Park 815-654-4559

935 Windsor Rd. Loves Park 815-654-4507

Parochial and Private schools Boylan Central Catholic High School

4000 St. Francis Dr. Rockford 815-877-0531

Concordia Lutheran School

7424 N. Second St. Machesney Park 815-633-6450 Keith School

1 Jacoby Place Rockford 815-399-8823 Lutheran High School

3411 N. Alpine Road Rockford 815-877-9551 North Love Christian School

5301 E. Riverside Blvd.

Loves Park 815-877-6021 St. Bridget School

604 Clifford Ave. Loves Park 815-633-8255

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Harlem Consolidated School District No. 122

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4225 Perryville Rd Loves Park, IL 61111 815.636.2100

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ROCKFORD BELL CREDIT UNION

4 E. Main Street Mt. Morris, IL 61054 815.734.6427

North Park Water

If you’ve noticed some activity on the North Park Water campus, it’s because the 1 million gallon water tower is being repainted! The towers are generally repainted every 20-25 years and this particular tower was last painted in 2000. This tower serves not only as additional water storage, but also provides additional pressure to the system. The project, which includes blasting off the interior and exterior paint coating and fully repainting the structure, should be completed by November.

Dedicated to providing quality financial services Not a promise to lend; standard credit qualifications and some restrictions apply. Rates subject to change. Ask a credit union representative for details.

Federally insured

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NORTH PARK WATER PHOTO Our Town

Rock Cut State Park offers outdoor fun for families

Nature 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 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, 210 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. It’s named for state Rep. William Pierce, of Rockford, who served in the legislature from 1951-1966, 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.

Swimming Olson Lake Beach will be operated this summer (Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend) by contract with Beachwater Lifeguard & Lake Patrol.

The lake is open from noon to 7 p.m.

Admission $5 for anyone over 48” tall, $2.50 for any under 48”, and free for kids 3 years of age and younger.. For additional information call 815-885-9084. or view the website at www.beachwatch.net A great resource for the whole family as volleyball nets are waiting for you – just ask for the ball from the concession station.

There are also snacks, ice cream and beach toys available at the concession stand. Boat rentals, stand-up paddle boards and kayak rentals will be available soon.

Please be aware that food is prohibited on the beach. Staff are working hard to have a clean environment and food attracts animals to the beach. They have provided picnic table just outside the beach area for those wishing to take a snack or meal break.

Note that smoking is not allowed on the beach. There are no lifeguards and as such children must be accompanied by someone 16 years old or older. The beach opens Memorial Day weekend and closes on Labor Day. • CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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Chiseled out of the state’s far northern region is Rock Cut State Park in Winnebago County.

Nearby are other “rocky” landmarks the mighty Rock River and the place where wagons once forded it, Rockford. It’s an area of rolling plains, interesting history and 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.

Summer hours (April–Oct.) are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Winter hours (November-March) are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Rockford Mass Transit District recently acquired five new hybrid electric buses from Gillig Corporation, which eliminates emissions.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Our Town

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Rockford Mass Transit provides bus service in Machesney, Loves Park The Rockford Mass Transit District provides Fixed Route and Paratransit Service to the cities of Rockford and Loves Park and the Village of Machesney Park. The 40 fixed route buses operate over 17 routes Monday thru Saturday, six night routes and five routes on Sundays.

The Paratransit service is a origin to destination service for persons with disabilities such that their disability limits their ability to ride the fixed route.

Information on both of these services can be found on the website or by contacting RMTD at 815-961-9000.

Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 5:15 until 11:15 p.m. Four late night shuttles – on the #33, #34, #35 and #36 routes – run between 11:15 p.m. and 11:45 p.m. to provide transportation to final destinations along fixed routes.

Saturday hours are from 6 a.m. until 5:45 p.m., although some Saturday routes run beyond 5:45, please check the individual timetables for verification. Sunday hours are from 9:15 a.m. until 5:15 p.m. for all routes except the E. State, which runs from 8:15 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.

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The East Side Transfer Center hours are 6 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 7 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. on Saturdays.

RMTD also operates the Rockford Paratransit service with the two operating the same hours.

Rockford ParaTransit serves the needs of customers, who because of a disability, are unable to use RMTD’s regular fixed route service, and who meet the criteria established by the U.S. Department of Transportation under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

Note that Rockford Mass Transit and Rockford ParaTransit does not provide service on New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day or Christmas Day.

Local RMTD service routes

The Village of Machesney Park is proud to have RMTD services available to local residents. RMTD currently has two routes which service areas within the Village, providing local residents with a public transportation connection to areas within the Village of Machesney Park, Loves Park,

Rockford and Belvidere.

Fare information

All tickets are non-refundable and can be redeemed for rides only. *Any person with a Medicare Card can qualify for reduced fare service on the RMTD system. Excluding ALL unlimited ride passes. **Any person with a Medicare Card enrolled in the Illinois Benefit Access Program can ride for free.

Riders must first obtain the appropriate RMTD photo ID. RMTD ID Cards are $5 per card. RMTD drivers do not carry change.

Senior citizens

Senior citizens 65 and older may ride for free if they have an RMTD photo ID card.

The cost for the ID card is $5. Seniors must present proof of age and the $5 fee in order to obtain the card.

Student ID cards:

RMTD operators will only accept area middle school and area high school issued ID cards. All students attending other institutions • CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

The Javon Bea Hospital–Riverside is conveniently located off of I-90 at Riverside Boulevard in Loves Park, Ill., This state-ofthe-art facility is a place of peace and healing.

The 563,000-square-foot hospital and clinic serves as the regional hub for highly specialized care for children and adults.

Designed with abundant light, inviting surroundings, and the most advanced technology available today, this 194-bed facility features: • Highest level emergency/trauma services, including 24/7 adult and pediatric trauma surgeons • Adult sub-specialty inpatient and outpatient services, including an adult critical care center • The highest level of neonatal and pediatric services • Over 55 pediatric and neonatal doctors in 29 pediatric specialties • State of Illinois-designated Regional Perinatal Center serving 11 counties in Illinois and 4 counties in Wisconsin • 52-bed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) • A Small Baby Unit to care for infants

less than 27 weeks’ gestation (one of two in Illinois) • Level II Pediatric Trauma Center (1 of 6 in Illinois) • State of Illinois-designated Children’s Hospital (only one in northern Illinois) • Pediatric Critical Care Center (1 of 10 in Illinois), including a pediatric intensive care unit • Advanced operating and surgery suites, including hybrid operating suites that provides physicians with real-time radiographic capabilities while performing surgery all in one surgical suite • Comprehensive cardiac, vascular, peripheral and neurovascular interventional laboratory • A rooftop healing garden and interactive play areas Mercyhealth is committed to providing exceptional hospital care no matter where you live throughout southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois. The unparalleled skills of our multi-disciplinary specialists, highly trained nurses and other providers ensure you receive high-quality, compassionate care.

Churches MACHESNEY PARK Calvary Chapel Rockford 1123 Harlem Rd. 815-847-0228 Central Christian Church located in Harlem High School 100 Huskie Circle 815-206-8612 Concordia Lutheran Church 7424 N. Second St. 815-633-4983 Evans United Methodist Church 7605 N. Second St. 815-633-4411 GPS Faith Church 11189 Forest Hills Rd. 779-221-8491 Harlem United Methodist Church 8401 N. Alpine Rd. 815-633-1450 First Baptist Church of Machesney Park 718 Harlem Rd. 815-633-2740 • CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

2023-24 PARKS OUR TOWN

Mercyhealth: Providing state-of-theart care in Loves Park

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Potato Shak

Welcome to the Potato Shak, a family restaurant serving great food and smiles since 1982. Stop in and say “Hi” to Pete, George, and the rest of the crew. We’re happy to serve you! The Potato Shak is at 5529 N Second St., Loves Park.

POTATO SHAK PHOTO Our Town

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Arlington Memorial Park Cemetery SERVICES AVAILABLE: Family or Single Spaces Cremation Garden and Niches Granite & Bronze Markers Monuments

2023-24 PARKS OUR TOWN

Arlington Pet Cemetery

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CDs. IRAs. Mutual IRAs. Mutual funds.

PET BURIALS & CUSTOM CREMATIONS Custom On-Site Cremations Pick Up Service Available Granite and Bronze Markers Cremation Urns

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Financial Advisor Financial Advisor

6202 Charles Street, Rockford, IL 61108 Phone: 815-399-5011 Fax: 815-399-5444

Bryan Orvis Rd 4059 N G Perryville 4059 N Perryville Rd Financial Loves Park,Advisor IL 61111 Loves Park, IL 61111 815-654-1463 4059 N Perryville Rd 815-654-1463 Loves Park, IL 61111 815-654-1463

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In June 1927, Mr. Fred E. Machesney came to the Rockford area and initially acquired rights to a 55-acre tract of land, which eventually expanded to 160-acres.

The area of land was along North Second Street and later to be known as the Machesney Airport. This is where it all began; the runway and tarmac were flat but made of dirt and grass.

The airfield officially became the Machesney “Rockford” Airport on July 8, 1927. The airport was once reported to be one of the oldest, privately owned aviation facilities operated continuously by one individual in the entire United States.

Acquisition to Closing: 1927-1974 Machesney’s Waco-9 Open Cockpit BiPlane In 1927, Mr. Machesney began the operation with two planes: his Waco 9 open cockpit bi-plane and a Curtiss JN-4D “Jenny” Army trainer. With two planes, a heart full of inspiration, and one employee named Al St. John, Machesney transported more than 3,000 passengers that were carried safely on sightseeing trips near Rockford and various other parts of the country. Fred became a distributor for Travel All Planes in northern Illinois and he also sponsored a “flying club” with approximately 12 members initially.

All of the members purchased their own planes and were trained by Mr. Machesney and fellow pilot, Ralph Swaby. Swaby was the first pilot Fred hired, and at the time both were transport pilots. Machesney and Swaby collectively flew 800 hours, covered 60,000 miles, carried 3,600 passengers, and successfully took off and landed over 4,000 times.

When Fred Machesney flew his first airplane here it was simply tied to a fence in the field along North Second Street.

Within the year the field was too small to accommodate the air-ships of the time, so he obtained a ground lease for the property just to the north and named it the “Rockford Airport,” which became official on July 8, 1927.

The new, larger field was a high, welldrained plot of land, and was comprised of nearly 160 acres. The airfield now abutted North Second Street to the East, and extended to the Rock River to the West. Being that the airfield now extended to the Rock River, this added an exciting new element to Machesney’s operation: the airfield became accessible to seaplanes for a landing.

On the airfield there now stood three hangers. The largest of the hangers was 60 feet by 60 feet with a 14-foot clearance, capable of housing 12 standard airplanes.

There was a workshop for maintenance services and training, a classroom for the

on-going aviation school, and a waiting room to provide comfort to the growing customer base.

The two additional, smaller hangers provided space for three more air-ships each. When students graduated from the Machesney “Rockford” Airport flight school the average of their grades was an impressive 93 percent.

In 1928, Mr. Machesney’s thoroughness and unusual precautions on the part of each and every pilot that he employed enabled him to point with pride to a “No Accident” record during the 1928 flying season.

Fairchild Cabin Plane 1928 Model Almost midway through that year, in May of 1928, Mr. Machesney took delivery of a five-seat Fairchild cabin plane.

Mr. Machesney purchased this plane to increase his passenger carrying capacity, and subsequently his income, as more and more people made use of airships for transportation purposes.

Whether the travel was for pleasure, business, or shopping trips to destinations like Milwaukee or Chicago, it was now possible for Rockford area residents by means of the Fairchild Cabin Plane. The new airship was able to travel at a speed of 90 miles per hour under favorable conditions. At this speed, travelers, shoppers, and businessmen were able to reach the Wisconsin metropolis, Chicago, or other regional cities in a remarkably short amount of time. This moved the Rockford area manufacturers and businessmen into a position to compete with those of other cities who already knew the value of the air-ships in exceeding the competition.

Also that same year, more new equipment was arriving on Machesney’s airfield; this time from the newly formed Forest City Airways which operated out of the Blackhawk Airfield. Forest City Airways purchased an Air King Bi-plane, thus increasing the Rockford area’s passenger carrying air fleet to four.

Notably, on Aug. 16 of 1928 a second flight attempt from the Machesney “Rockford” Airport to Sweden took off under Machesney’s instruction.

Unfortunately, the pilots became lost sometime between Aug. 18 and Sept.

2, eventually landing in Greenland.

Thankfully, they were safely returned to the area and received a warm reception on Oct. 18.

In 1930, Captain Joe Kimm (a member of the Quiet Birdmen), confirms, that Northwest Airlines expanded its passenger services to Elgin and Rockford. The Rockford bound passengers were routed to Machesney’s airfield, which they had already approved as a route for airmail

delivery. Northwest Airways, Inc. (changed to Northwest Airlines, and now Delta), who used the Machesney “Rockford” Airport to fly mail in and out of the area, put their stamp of approval on Machesney’s airport in just one visit.

When the airmail service was proposed for Rockford, a revolving beacon was removed from atop the Rockford National Bank building and donated to the airfield.

The donated beacon light was used in connection with flood lighting system installed with the assistance of the aviation committee of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Obstruction lighting was also installed to mark hazards for pilots flying at night and to mark the property boundaries. Fred Machesney was instrumental in getting airmail delivered to the area, which lasted some 33 months between 1930 and 1933.

In 1934, it is said that Fred went back to operating “three or four planes” and was doing most of the flying again. Around that time, any extra passenger work was being handled by B.W. “Sandy” Sandberg and Pat Bailey.

In 1935, Famed aviatrix Amelia Earhart visited Rockford, where she addressed the area’s Woman’s Club.

From 1939 to 1943, 1139 students in military service were trained at the Machesney “Rockford” Airport, and an estimated 2,000 civilian students completed the training during the same time period.

Machesney and his staff trained over 50 students to fly, 14 of which made solo flights at the airport, and three went on to receive their commercial pilots licenses.

The airport had some 203 visiting airships and it became a favorite stopping place for flyers of the Army and Navy air squadrons who made hops from Chanute Field in Rantoul, and Great Lakes Naval Training Station in North Chicago.

Additionally, the airport became a layover point for United States military planes heading over to the Soviet Union during World War II. In 1943, voters approved the formation of the Greater Rockford Airport Authority.

Law later found this authority to be unconstitutional, but the authority was eventually approved and officially created two years later.

In 1946, the Rockford area City-County Planning Commission named Lloyd T. Keefe City-County Planner; his first task was to direct the conversion of the 18,000-acre Camp Grant grounds into an airport. Camp Grant was a U.S. Army training facility located on the South end of Rockford, named in honor of General • CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

2023-24 PARKS OUR TOWN

Machesney Park Airport

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ROCK CUT STATE PARK • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 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 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.

Trails The trail system at Rock Cut offers opportunities for hiking (40 miles), mountain biking (23 miles), and equestrian (14 miles). 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 color-coded 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. Rock Cut does not have horse rentals or stables at the site. Lockwood Park, a facility of the Rockford Park District, has trail ride and horse boarding opportunities available at their facility, which is approximately 10 miles from the park.

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-November 30.

These regulations for mountain biking and equestrian use will be strictly enforced and violators are subject to fines.

The “winter program” provides for groomed cross-country trails as conditions permit. Cross country skis and snowshoes can be rented through the park concession; for hours and information call 815-8854740. The groomed trails can also be accessed at the Lions Club Picnic Area. As a courtesy, hikers and those hiking with snowshoes are asked to use other trails that have not been groomed for skiing.

Rock Cut also offers access (at the Pierce Lake spillway) to the Willow Creek Bike Trail and Perryville Path, which is a paved trail system connecting the local communities of Loves Park and Rockford to Rock Cut State Park.

Directions I-90 West to Rockford. Take the Highway 173 exit. Go west for one-half mile to the Park Entrance.

ROCKFORD MASS TRANSIT • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 of learning including advanced learning facilities such as Rock Valley College, Judson College or Rasmussen College or alternative education programs, must have an RMTD Student ID card to qualify for the student discounted rate of $.75.

To obtain an RMTD Student ID card, a student must come to the downtown transfer center and verify his or her enrollment in an educational program by presenting a current class schedule or transcript. The student must also be able to verify that he or she is 20 year of age or younger during the current school year. The cost of an RMTD student ID card is $2.

Cash fares

Adults (12 years and older) $1.50 Children (ages 5 -11) $.75 Students 20 years old and younger $.75

Children (younger than 5 and must be accompanied by an adult) ride free To qualify for the student fare, a student must be able to show a valid schoold ID or valid RMTD photo ID Disabled Citizens (with valid RMTD photo ID)* $.75 Disabled Citizens enrolled in Illinois Circuit Breaker program** (with valid RMTD photo ID) ride free Senior Citizens (age 65 and older with valid RMTD photo ID) ride free

Ticket fares

Adult, 10 Ride Tickets $15 Student, or Disabled Citizen10 Ride Tickets $7.50 7-Day Unlimited Ride Saver Pass $16 30-Day Unlimited Ride Saver Pass $55 (Not transferable. Unlimited Ride passes

may only be used by the purchaser (and are only valid on RMTD).

Transfers free

Transfers are good for one hour and should be used on the first bus passing the transfer point.

Transfers are issued anywhere two RMTD bus routes meet or cross over.

Zone fare is $.25 Any passenger boarding or alighting in the designated Cherry Valley Zone will be asked to pay the additional Zone Fare. Bus passes are not accepted in the Zone Fare.

For more information, visit the website at RMTD.org*

Pete & George Serving Breakfast All Day • Breakfast Specials • American Fries • Soup & Sandwich Specials

Our Community Since 1955 RESTAURANT 1350 Turret Drive Machesney Park, IL (815) 633-5461

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381721

2023-24 PARKS OUR TOWN

Proudly Serving

www.northparkwater.org

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Hours: Tues. – Sat. 6 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sunday 7 a.m. - 1 p.m.

5529 N. Second St. 815-877-1010

Human Services 815-654-7529 8801 N. Second St. Machesney Park, Ill. 61115 Programs at GiGi’s Playhouse offer foundational learning opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the community.

CHILD ABUSE Family Peace Center 779-348-7600 315 N. Main St. Rockford, Ill. The Family Peace Center is a 501c3 multi-agency, multi-disciplinary service center at 315 N. Main Street in Rockford, Ill. The center provides services to victims of inter-personal violence.

Both public and private partner agencies assign staff on a full-time or part-time basis to provide services from one location.

Remedies (formerly known as WAVE) Program 815-962-6102 24-hour crisis line 815-962-6102 Counseling for victims of domestic violence and their children.

The program provides legal advocacy, shelter, women and children groups, individual and group counseling.

ADDICTION COUNSELING Alcoholics Anonymous 815-968-0333 Family Consultation Service 4040 Charles St., Rockford, Ill., 61108 We provide information, brochures, books and meetings are scheduled.

Call for more information.

Narcotics Anonymous (24-hour help line) 815-964-5959 Callers will be placed in contact with a recovering addict who can direct you to local meetings.

Meetings are open to anyone who thinks he or she has a problem with drugs. www.rragsna.org

DISABILITY SERVICES Milestone, Inc. 815-654-6100 4060 McFarland Rd. Rockford, Ill. Provides developmentally disabled adults with living skills and services in residential settings with an in-house training facility.

March of Dimes 815-397-0097 Northern Illinois Division 5411 E. State St., Suite 8 Rockford, Ill. The Hope: Every birth-A healthy birth.

The Urgency: The health of four million babies born each year. Fact: Babies born in 24 other countries have a better chance of living to their first birthday than babies born in the United States.

The Arc of Winnebago, Boone and Ogle Counties 815-965-3455 2820 McFarland Rd. Rockford, Ill., 61107 A non-profit organization to assist people with developmental disabilities and their families in securing appropriate services to alleviate the stresses and problems related to disabilities, and in attaining the most productive lifestyle possible.

HOSPICE CARE Northern Illinois Hospice Association 815-398-0500 4215 Newburg Rd. Rockford, Ill. Serves patients in terminal illness cases, addressing the physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs of the patient and family through periods of illness and bereavement. Grief counseling center for anyone who has experienced a death. Medicare certified.

LEGAL ASSISTANCE Prairie State Legal Services 815-965-2902 303 N. Main St., Suite 600 Rockford, Ill. Prairie State Legal Services offers free legal services for low income

persons and those over 60 who have serious civil legal problems and need legal help to solve them. Prairie State focuses on providing legal services to the most vulnerable groups in our society, the poor, the elderly, the physically and mentally disabled as well as other vulnerable people.

SOCIAL SERVICES Winnebago County Social Services 815-972-1135 416 S. Madison St., Rockford Services include religious teaching, character-building programs for adults and young people, financial assistance and Winnebago County Emergency Food Pantry. Please call for a food pantry appointment.

Community Foundation of Northern Illinois 815-962-2110 Fax 815-962-2116 946 N. Second St. Rockford, Ill. The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois is a nonprofit, endowed public charity that offers donors of all means a flexible, costeffective way to give back to their community.

Winnebago County Animal Services 4517 N. Main St. Rockford, Ill. 61103 815-319-4100 Animal Services officers investigate animal related complaints and requests for service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year in all areas of the County. Services include animal bite reports and rabies control, response to straying, dangerous and nuisance animals, as well as, emergency care for sick and injured animals and animal welfare checks.

Winnebago County Health Department 815-720-4000 401 Division St. Rockford, Ill. The Winnebago County Health Department provides services designed to protect, promote and maintain the health of all Winnebago County residents.

2023-24 PARKS OUR TOWN

Gigi’s Playhouse

17

AIRPORT • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 Ulysses S. Grant.

Later, in the fall of 1947, Camp Grant buildings were torn down and more than 1200 acres of camp property were turned over to the Greater Rockford Airport Authority for development into an official airport.

In 1951, 237 charter passengers were carried on 143 trips for a total of 55,155 passenger miles, as told

by Fred Machesney. There were 35 airplanes based at the Machesney airfield at this time, and Fred was operating 11 of them. Using the Machesney airfield, freight handling aircraft flew some 12,380 miles, transporting 10,828 pounds of cargo during 1951.

Instead of Machesney’s business depending chiefly on a sightseeing passenger trade, as it was in the beginning, he began to focus around sales and service to the industrial aircraft. Around 1951-52, total hours flown were nearly 76,330, air miles estimated at 7,633,000, and more than 75,000 passengers were carried by the planes that utilized the airport.

In 1954, on Oct. 31 Governor William G. Stratton attended

a dedication ceremony for the “Greater Rockford Airport.”

In 1956, on October 26th VicePresident Richard M. Nixon, campaigning with President Dwight D. Eisenhower for reelection, landed at “Greater Rockford Airport” and gave a campaign rally speech at the National Guard Armory. The Machesney Airport remained open during this time and continued its operations.

In 1974, with the continued decline of the Machesney Airport’s operations, the administrators closed its doors some 20 years after the opening of the Greater Rockford Airport, now known as the Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD).

Not long after its closing, the property was redeveloped in 1978 into the Machesney Park Mall. The now former Machesney Park has once again been redeveloped into the Machesney Park Town Center.

During his career Fred Machesney flew more than 100,000 miles and carried over 12,000 passengers; quite a record for any pilot.

Park License service

complete License service For: Autos • Trucks • Trailers Boats • Snowmobiles • ATVs Hunting & Fishing Licenses • Notary Public Fast, Friendly License service 6402 n. 2nd street, Loves Park, iL 61111 email: info@parklicense.net HOUrs: Mon. - Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

445148

PIASA LEATHER & SADDLE

544 N. Second, Loves Park, IL • 815-877-5727

Park City Church 10714 N. Second St. 815-205-4252 Riverside Community Church 6816 N. Second St. 815-877-4444

LOVES PARK

Journey Church Ministries 7825 Forest Hills Road 815-633-6143 Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church 502 Orth Rd. 815-885-4884 Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ 5550 Windsor Rd. 815-282-0110

Bethany Presbyterian Church 5403 N. 2nd St. 815-877-8001

Rock Valley Bible Church 7721 N. Alpine Rd. 815-397-3877

Firstborn Ministries 8213 N. Alpine Rd. 815-633-0030

St. Bridget Church 600 Clifford Ave. 815-633-8922

Grace Lutheran Church 343 Grand Ave. 815-633-8075

Windsor Baptist Church 1115 Windsor Rd. 815-633-7688

Flowers on River Park Full Service Florist

LEATHER WORK AND REPAIR NEW & USED ENGLISH & WESTERN SADDLES • Complete Repair of Saddles • Tack • Coats • Purses • Briefcases and Related Items • Custom Goods • Belts • Holsters • Chaps • Leanin’ Tree Cards & Gifts

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Sat 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

430 River Park Rd. • Loves Park, IL 815-904-6522 445202

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WE’RE BACK OPEN! Thanks to everyone in Loves Park City Hall and to all of our loyal customers for making it possible.

WE APPRECIATE ALL OF YOU! 5704 N. Second Street • Loves Park, IL 61111

(815) 904-6611

444805

2023-24 PARKS OUR TOWN

North Park Church of God 7620 Elm St. 815-633-4253

OPEN

815-633-5511

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CHURCHES • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

Parson’s Collision Center 2050 Harlem Rd. Loves Park, IL 61111 815-633-6620

Parson’s Collision Center East 5902 Sandy Hollow Rd. Rockford, IL 61107 815-874-7100

344851

815.654.7447

9853 N. Alpine Rd. (in back of Target)

Machesney Park, IL 61115 One St ShOpOp

For A Shipp ll Your ing n eeds

Quest7 Kohl’s

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Simply The Best!

TLC AWARDED BEST OF SENIOR LIVING THIRD YEAR IN A ROW!

TLC Living Community in Machesney Park, IL has been awarded the 2023 Best of Senior Living Award by senior living advocacy group A Place for Mom for exemplary assisted living care and support for area senior citizens. This marks the third consecutive year TLC has been named as one of the nation’s top 3% of senior care providers based on reviews from assisted living residents and their families.

Private Tours Available CALL (815) 242-2852 – OR –

EMAIL tclydesdale@tlc-mp.com

Opened in March 2020, TLC is home to independent and assisted living apartments located on a six-acre campus near the heart of Machesney Park.

Residents have access to 24/7 senior care and support along with restaurant-style dining, community gathering spaces, spiritual services, a myriad of daily activities and more.

508 ROOSEVELT ROAD, MACHESNEY PARK, IL 61115

(815) 242-2852 / WWW.TLC-MP.COM  FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK 445182

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10/9/23 2:09 PM