Visitor's Guide 2023

Visitors Guide

Alp and Dell Cheese Store: A must visit in the Midwest

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

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

The Alp and Dell Cheese store is a leader in quality, selection and price. Along with the local cheeses, Alp & Dell offers a nice selection of well known imported cheese from Europe. A well balanced selection of wines from throughout the world and some locally brewed beers round out our assortment.

Apple Canyon Lake Golf Course & Pro Shop is open to the public

Golf course

14A200 E. Apple Canyon Rd. Apple River, IL 61001

815-492-2477

Hours: 7 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. tee time reservations available. Tee times can be made online or by calling (815) 492-2477

The Golf Course is open for the season

Whether you are an Apple Canyon Lake resident, or a visitor passing through Jo Daviess County, stop by and play a round of golf at one of northwest Illinois’ most scenic courses. This 9-hole course winds through the hills and canyons at beautiful Apple Canyon Lake just minutes north of US 20. Watch for many of the golf events on our Golf Course home page. Whether it is the ACL Big Cup Tournament, Spring Kickoff, or Jack-and-Jill Scramble, there are many ways to enjoy a good game of golf with your friends and neighbors from ACL or other surrounding communities. Think of us for your next event! Call

(815) 492-2477 to plan your next corporate outing or family get-together.

Annual season passes: Individual Membership $250, Junior Membership

(Age 10-16) $25, Non-Property Owner, Guest (Individual) $350, Corporate $2,000

Leagues: Tuesday Women’s Golf Day

Wednesday Men’s League – No available tee-times from 8 to 11:30 a.m., Thursday Night Men’s League – No available teetimes from 3 p.m. to close

Marina

815-492-2182

Friday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The ACL Marina offers a variety of products and services including bait, fishing licenses, grocery staples, ice cream, candy, snacks, soda, ice, beer, wine, liquor, ACL clothing and logo merchandise, propane tank exchanges, and gasoline for your boat, ATV or UTV.

Fishing, hunting licenses, and DNR Services available at the ACL Marina. Pontoon Boat Rentals. Pontoon Boat Rentals are available to Property Owners and their Guests

The Association has three pontoon boats available for rent on a daily or half-day basis. All reservations must be made by a property owner or authorized guest.

Property Owners must contact the Association Office to give their permission for a guest to make a reservation. Property Owners are reminded that they are responsible for the activities of their guests, and any violation of the rules by a guest or the cost of damages in excess of the security deposit will be charged against the Property Owner.

All boats will be checked in and out of the Marina. An Amenity Tag must be presented to the Marina staff by the lessee.

Each boat has a capacity of 10 persons. Ten adult-size life jackets are provided. Lessees must provide their own life jackets

for children and infants. Anyone who leaves the boat to access Nixon Beach, the Marina Bay Trail, etc. must have an Amenity Tag.

The Cove Bar & Grill

14A158 Canyon Club Dr. Apple River, Ill. 815-492-0277

The Cove Bar & Grill Hours:

Thursday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Friday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Sunday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

View their Facebook Page for the most up to date specials and hours.

The area’s premier scenic dining experience is located at Apple Canyon Lake in the heart of Jo Daviess County and is open to the public. The only restaurant in the area with a lakefront location, The Cove Bar and Grill provides a unique dining experience which combines spectacular beauty and a delicious menu.

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

SUBMITTED PHOTO Visitor’s 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 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 firstcome 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

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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.

Editor in Chief: Tracy Ouellette

Section Editor: Melanie Bradley

Page Design: Jen DeGroot

Creative Director: Heather Ruenz

Advertising Director: Vicki Vanderwerff For

BOONE COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL

June 4

Baltic Mill Stage

Lone Canary

June 11

Baltic Mill Stage in Belvidere Park 6:30 p.m.

The Sensations

June 18

Baltic Mill Stage in Belvidere Park

6:30 p.m.

Rockford Wind Ensemble

June 24

Boone County Fairgrounds:

7 p.m. before Belvidere Heritage Days Fireworks

Dale Rhode and the Crossroads Band

July 2

Baltic Mill Stage in Belvidere Park 6:30 p.m.

Bluegrass Reunion Band

July 9

Baltic Mill Stage in Belvidere Park 6:30 p.m.

Bucktooth Sugarbush

July 16

Baltic Mill Stage in Belvidere Park

6:30 p.m.

Universal Joint

July 23

Candlewick Lake Recreation Center 6:30 p.m.

That Gurl

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 programs of the BCAC are sponsored in part by the Illinois Arts Council Agency and the National Endowment for the Arts.

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 100year anniversary celebration. Sinnissippi Park was the first land purchased by the newly-formed 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.

Krueger-Haskell

Krueger-Haskell Golf Course is located on the west side of the City of Beloit and opened May 1, 1927. When the course opened it was originally a 9-hole course. In 1931 the course was enlarged to an 18-hole course. Today the course is an 18 hole, par 70, 6158 yard course from the white tees.

Our unique layout, mature trees and rolling terrain make it a challenging and enjoyable course for any golfer. Our course offers 4 different tee box settings on each hole, numerous bunkers, doglegs, and tight tree lined fairways. Five water hazards, four of which were added in 2010-2011 provide for a challenging round of golf. We also offer a practice green for golfers who would like to work on chipping and putting before their round of golf. Five hitting cages are also available at the clubhouse to warm up before your round of golf.

The golf course was named for Butch Krueger and Everett Haskell. Butch

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 (62+): $6 (Resident), $8 (Non-Resident)

Veterans: $6 (Resident), $8 (Non-Resident)

Ages 5-17: $6 (Resident), $8 (Non-Resident)

Ages 3-4: $4 (Resident), $5 (Non-Resident)

Ages 2 and under: FREE

Hours: Monday: CLOSED, Tuesday–Friday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday–Sunday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Golf Course is celebrating 96 years

Krueger was the PGA Professional at Beloit Municipal Golf Course from 19361966.

He brought national recognition to Beloit as a touring golf professional. He played in 12 U.S. Opens and finished in the top 20 4 times. He was the Wisconsin State Open champion 4 times and the State PGA Champion 4 times. Butch taught golf to thousands of Beloit golfers over several generations.

Everett Haskell had many notable accomplishments and contributions to the City of Beloit and Krueger-Haskell Golf Course.

Everett was a native Beloiter, local businessman, city councilor, and an avid golfer and supporter of the golf course.

The clubhouse offers a small merchandise area providing golfers with their basic golfing essentials; golf balls, golf gloves, and tees.

Food and a bar are located inside the

Krueger-Haskell clubhouse which provides a friendly and relaxing atmosphere for golfers after their round of golf.

They provide a variety of different food and beverage options, as well as large

group catering and beverage service on the course.

Hospitality, great customer service and affordability make Krueger-Haskell Golf Course the ideal place to play golf.

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

44 Forest Preserves in Winnebago County offer opportunities for year-round outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, paddling, biking, cross-country skiing, and much more!

Enjoy three campgrounds that provide paved access roads, running water, electric hookups, restrooms, and dump stations.

Found in six of the County forest preserves, there are 28 miles of mowed trails to enjoy horseback riding in the scenic beauty of the preserves.

Twenty-three shelterhouse facilities are available in 17 different preserves to schedule your summer event in the beautiful and relaxing natural setting

Play the preserves and discover more choices and better value at three outstanding golf courses situated in the heart of Northern Illinois.

Wolf Hollow Golf: 18-hole course founded in 1928

Founded in 1928, the Wolf Hollow Golf Course has prided itself in offering a quality golf experience for everyone.

Our Wolf Hollow 18-Hole Championship course provides just the variety of course layouts to suit every level of golfer. Set among the rolling hills of Northwest Illinois, just 3 1/2 miles North of Route 20, near the Village of Lena our course is easy to get to and ready for your enjoyment.

A demanding challenge awaits you at the 6,408 yard Wolf Hollow Championship course. It’s just what the doctor ordered if you like beautiful elevation, large bent grass greens, and multiple teeing areas.

Wolf Hollow will test your shot aking skills with a fantastic risk-reward design that will often entice you.

When your round is over you can relax in our comfortable lounge and take advantage of our short-order menu while watching television from virtually any seating location. Our banquet hall is available for wedding parties, reunions, lunch meetings, dances, and more. Simply contact the Wolf Hollow Clubhouse at 815-369-5513 to book your event. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is waiting to welcome you at Wolf Hollow“Where golf is a breath of fresh air.”

Jarrett Prairie Center Museum

White Pine State Park offers perfect family getaway

Located in the heart of the Rock River valley, the 385-acre White Pines Forest State Park is the south boundary of the historic Chicago-Iowa Trail. Today, the park is perfect for family getaways to enjoy hiking, fishing, camping and picnicking. With serene, picturesque beauty, and modern lodge facilities amidst a beautiful forest, there is no better place to retreat from the everyday routine than the open spaces at White Pines.

White Pines Forest State Park, more commonly referred to as White Pines State Park, is an Illinois state park in Ogle County, Ill. It is located near the communities of Polo, Mount Morris and Oregon.

Along the meandering banks of Spring and Pine creeks, this scenic haven has magnificent trees that share moss-covered cliffs, strung with trailing vines. In season, colorful beds of blossoming trout lily, solomons seal, bloodroot, blue-eyed grass, spring beauty and hepatica are everywhere.

Among the park’s most interesting features are the concrete fords that span the creeks, allowing visitors to drive through the flowing streams, with an accessible path leading to the stream bank for wildlife watching and fishing.

Camping and picnicking are popular at White Pines, with shaded picnic areas along Pine Creek and more than 100 campsites and youth group campgrounds available, with advance reservations through ExploreMoreIL™.

White Pines Forest State Park has seasonal archery and firearm deer hunting

and, when snow covers the ground, cross country skiing trails.

History of the area

White Pines Forest lies in the heart of Black Hawk Indian country and is rich in historic accounts of the warriors who resisted the efforts of settlers to drive them from the beloved Rock River valley. Eventually, however, the Black Hawk War forced them out and Chief Black Hawk himself was sent into exile in the custody of his rival, Keokuk. When early settlers arrived, they found this 700-acre forest of untouched pine extending for 1/4 mile along the east bank of Pine Creek.

With a view to preserving Illinois last stand of natural white pines and the most southern stand of white pines in the United States, a

movement was started in the early part of the 20th Century to set the area aside as a state park.

Through efforts of Ogle County nature lovers, a bill appropriating $30,000 for purchase of land was passed by the legislature in 1903, but the measure was vetoed. In 1927, however, they had more success, and the forest was acquired.

Camping

Looking to spend a night under the stars?

White Pines State Park has 103 Class B/S campsites with vehicular access, Class C camping and, in addition, there are two youth group campgrounds. There are six campsites accessible for the physically challenged camper. Because of the nature of the terrain in this area, soft ground and high water may sometimes close campgrounds. It’s a good idea to check ahead with the site superintendent?s office to be sure

the facilities are open. Reservations for camping are no longer being taken. Contact the park or visit the web site for more information.

Lodge

White Pines Inn, originally constructed by the Civilian Conversation Corps in the 1930s, has undergone an extensive renovation. To preserve the historic ambiance of this wonderful log cabin inn, the original stone and timbers were retained and the new features were carefully blended to enhance the original structure. There are 13 one-room cabins and three cabins with four rooms, for a total of 25 guest rooms. Each cabin sleeps four people and is complete with shower, gas log fireplace, one queen bed and one trundle bed.

All cabins are air-conditioned and heated, and have telephones and televisions. The historic lounge area, which is part of the main lodge, is filled with crafts and artwork, including a gift shop that offers everything from souvenirs to exquisite dolls and homemade candy.

Numerous homemade delicacies are offered at the White Pines Inn Restaurant. The restaurant can accommodate up to 223 people with several meeting/banquet rooms that seat up to 125. Wedding receptions, retreats, seminars and family reunions are all handled professionally and skillfully. For lodge reservations, call 815-946-3817 or write White Pines Inn, 6712 West Pines Road, Mt. Morris, IL, 61054.

Boone County Fair to welcome headliner Tracy Byrd

The Boone County Fair Association proudly announces their Saturday evening concert entertainment for the 2023 Boone County Fair, 8847 Rt. 76, scheduled to run from Tuesday, Aug. 8 to Sunday, Aug. 13. Featured on Saturday evening, Aug. 12 will be the popular country music singer and songwriter Tracy Byrd with special guests The Feudin’ Hillbillys taking the Grandstand stage at 6:45pm.

Tickets for the concert go on sale ‘online only’ this Saturday, March 4 th at 10:00am. Tickets are $25 for reserved grandstand or regular track seats, $30 for ‘restricted’ (must remain seated up front) track seats.

Chairs are supplied for regular track and restricted track. No other chairs allowed. $15 for bleacher seats.

Admission to the fair is $10 Friday, Saturday and Sunday, $8 on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Children 10 and under are free every day.

Seniors 65+ are free on Thursday. Active military free everyday with military ID. Plenty of free parking. Season passes are

$25 in advance. $28 at the gate.

Breakfast is served daily at the Grange Food Complex starting at 6 a.m. Gates officially open at 8 a.m.

Exhibit Halls open at 10 a.m. (Home Arts Hall is closed for judging on Tuesday). Midway opens at 12noon to

11pm. Discounted rides Weds & Thursday Noon to 5. Sorry, there are no ride wristbands. All rides individually priced. All show tickets go on sale at the Main Gate ticket office starting Saturday, July 8 from 8 a.m. to noon.

Plan now to help us celebrate 60 years of a Whole Lotta Happy at our Rt. 76 location this August. Like our Facebook page @TheBooneFair. See you there!

Tracy Byrd

Tracy Byrd, a popular country music singer and songwriter has charted more than thirty hit singles in his 30 year career featuring his two number one hits ‘Holdin’ Heaven” and “Ten Rounds with Jose Cuervo” along with 11 other Top Ten hits.

Byrd also released ten studio albums and two greatest hits albums with four gold

certifications and one double-platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America.

Some of Byrd’s other hits include ‘Watermelon Crawl”, “The Keeper of the Stars”, “Big Love,” “Drinkin’ Bone” and “I’m from the Country.”

More info at: https://www.tracybyrdmusic. com

The Feudin’ Hillbillys

The Feudin’ Hillbillys has become one of the top Country and Folk artists in the 2023 music scene. This six-person musical group from Central Illinois focuses on covers but do perform some originals. Their sets feature mainly country, but they do include a little pop, some classic rock and 80’s favorites with a touch of funk.

They have entertained thousands across the Midwest the past several years opening for many country artists from Luke Bryan to Montgomery Gentry to Tracy Lawrence and others.

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

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

Carboniferous Coal Forest

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

The Ordovician Sea

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

Geoscience

Visit the second level to learn how our

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

The First People

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

Windows to Wilderness

Focusing on the wildlife of the Rock

SUBMITTED

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!

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--4897970.

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.

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.

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 2324.

The BCAC will be hosting “Paint on State” again on June 24. Several murals will be restored the same weekend.

The Summer Concerts in the Park will begin on Sunday, June 4, on the Baltic Mill Stage in Belvidere Park. Current COVID guidelines will be in place for all events.

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 1951-1966 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 815885-4740.

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 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.

above: 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. right: Paint on State in Belvidere is hosted by the Boone County Arts Council annually.

BOONE COUNTY ARTS

COUNCIL PHOTOS Visitor’s Guide

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.

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

Meet us at the Rockford City Market

The Outdoor Rockford City Market began in May of 2010 under the planning, leadership, and guidance of the local non-profit, the Rock River Development Partnership. Since then, the Market has grown substantially over the years and we feel continually blessed by the community’s support, loyalty, and love. In the past 10 years we’ve grown from a handful of vendors in an empty parking lot, to 70+ vendors underneath the beautifully constructed pavilion downtown.

Every Friday night in the summer…

You can find some of the best local makers, growers, artists, and bakers underneath the Rockford City Market Pavilion. We have two local breweries on site pouring beer, a Main Stage area with a local band, and an Acoustic Stage area with a local performer.

We line the pavilion and two of the surrounding streets with vendors and food trucks, and we partner with local non-profits and organizations to host kids’ activities.

Our mission is to connect the community with local small businesses in a fun and engaging way. We think the Outdoor Rockford City Market is a perfect example of that.

Friday, Aug. 18

Saturday, Aug. 19

Sunday, Aug. 20

Megabands available at RMU, Rochelle City Hall, Rochelle Chamber of Commerce, Colonial Flower Shoppe, Quinn’s Jewelry and ALM Fine Cabinetry

Entertainment

Friday, Aug. 18

6 - 7 p.m.

Little Miss Peanut

8 - 10 p.m.

Nauti Nauti

Saturday, Aug. 19 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Magic Matt’s Family Fun Show

Noon - 1 p.m. - Lynx

2 - 4 p.m.

Blue Stream

5 - 7 p.m. Jerry Criss Band

8 - 10 p.m.

Neverly Brothers

Sunday, Aug. 20 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Magic Matt’s Family Fun Show 1 - 3 p.m.

Neal Woolbright

Music with John Brown 4 - 6 p.m. - Vodka Boys

50/50 Raffle Tickets plus other prizes

Craft, Vendors & Business Booths

Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sun. 10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Amusements

(By A&A Amusements)

Fri. 4 - 10 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Sun. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Food Court

Fri. 4 - 10 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Sun. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Beer Garden

Sponsored by VFW Post 3878

Fri. 6 - 10 p.m., Sat. 2 - 10 p.m.

Sun. 2 - 6 p.m.

Car Show

Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Ice Cream Social

Sunday 3 - 6 p.m.

Haunted Maze

At Moose Lodge

Sat. 4 - 9 p.m., Sun. 2 - 5 p.m.

Pancake Breakfast

Sat. & Sun. 7:30 - 11 a.m.

KId Zone

Saturday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Church Service

First General Baptist

Sunday 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.

Parade

Sunday 1 p.m.

Rochelle, IL. lhhfest.com