Celebrating Black Music Month: Illinois Musical Legends

Did you know that June is Black Music Month? Illinois has a rich musical heritage from artists of every genre and is home to legends such as Sam Cooke, The Emotions, Jennifer Hudson and Chance the Rapper. This month, we honor their impact and the generations of Black artists who have contributed to music history.

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Southern Illinois Gem – Shawnee National Forest

• Outdoors
• Hiking

Did you know there are canyons, springs and giant boulders in Southern Illinois? Everyone from families to hikers and rock climbers have enjoyed the beautiful campgrounds and hikes in the Shawnee National Forest. South of the Metro East, near Carbondale and Cairo, is over 1,000 square miles of federally protected forest preserve, with access to a multitude of outdoor activities. Here are some of the best spots to visit and unplug:

Giant City State Park

Located near Carbondale, Giant City is a perfect location for tourists to explore incredible rock formations and forests in comfort. Come for the awesome hikes complete with massive boulders (where the city gets its name), stay for the amenities of Giant City Lodge. Complete with a large cabin complex with full amenities, a swimming pool and the best fried chicken in Southern Illinois. Giant City is perfect for tourists and families looking to explore Illinois’ natural beauty for a weekend.

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National Olympic Day: Illinois' olympic excellence

Did you know Illinois has brought home 40 gold medals, the fourth most Olympic gold medals won of any state? From the court, to the pool, to the track, Illinois has made a lasting impact on the Olympics.

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Celebrate June as National Dairy Month: Discover Illinois’ Dairy Heritage

June is National Dairy Month, making it a perfect time to celebrate Illinois' rich dairy heritage. Our state is home to many family-owned farms and delightful ice cream shops, each offering unique stories, flavors, and experiences that bring joy to both locals and visitors.

If you have a sweet tooth, Illinois boasts some beloved ice cream establishments. A must-visit destination for dairy enthusiasts is Marcoot Jersey Creamery in Greenville. This seventh-generation farm offers visitors the opportunity to tour its facilities, sample fresh artisanal cheeses, and meet its friendly Jersey cows. The creamery also prioritizes sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, highlighting the commitment of Illinois farmers to responsible agriculture.

Oberweis Dairy, based in North Aurora, is known throughout the state for its delicious ice cream and glass-bottled milk. Their factory tours offer visitors a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes process of the bottling and making of these delicious products. Additionally, Jarling's Custard Cup in Champaign has delighted generations with its flavorful frozen custard, making it an iconic destination in Illinois even being featured on the Today show.

Additionally, the Elgin History Museum offers a unique exploration with its "Dairies to Prairies" project. This exhibit shares how Elgin once played a pivotal role in dairy history, with their local farmers. Visitors can discover how the area evolved from dairy pastures into suburban communities as well as the modern day efforts to restore natural prairies.

National Dairy Month is an excellent opportunity to explore Illinois' vibrant dairy community. From visiting local farms and tasting homemade ice cream, to learning about the history of dairy production, there is something enjoyable for everyone. Take the opportunity this June to experience the rich dairy traditions that make Illinois truly special.