Two broods of cicadas seen across Illinois in a once-in-a-lifetime emergence

• Cicadas

Each summer, Illinois residents can hear the sounds of annual cicadas in the trees day and night, but this year the state saw a rare emergence. Two groups of periodical cicadas, Brood XIII and Brood XIX, have appeared simultaneously for the first time in over 200 years, making Illinois one of only two states to see both broods this year.

Although cicadas can be seen each year, the emergence of the two periodical broods creates a once-in-a-lifetime experience as it is estimated that it will be another 200 years before more than one brood emerges at the same time.

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Celebrating Nick Offerman's Birthday

• July

Did you know that a comedian, producer and writer from NBC’s “Parks and Recreation” was born and raised right here in our state? Nick Offerman, born in Joliet, turns 54 today. Offerman has also appeared in “The Last of Us,” “21 Jump Street” and was a voice actor in “The Lego Movie.”

One of Offerman’s many talents is woodworking. He’s a professional boat builder with a side business as a wood craftsman. He creates wooden structures such as canoes and boats and released an instructional DVD in 2008 called Fine Woodstrip Canoe Building. He has written four autobiographies and starred in the off-Broadway play, “Annapurna.”

Offerman’s brother, Matt Offerman, lives in the state. He is also an actor and occasionally appeared on “Parks and Recreation.” Currently, he manages at Iron and Glass, a brewery in Minooka, Illinois.

Join us in celebrating the birthday of this multi-talented actor!

Celebrating Juneteenth in Illinois: A historical perspective

Illinois, a state rich with history and cultural significance, has played a crucial role in the journey toward African American liberation, a journey that Juneteenth commemorates. As a free state bordering slave states, Illinois was a critical player in the fight against slavery and for civil rights. The state’s unique position and its notable figures and events have significantly contributed to the spirit and history behind Juneteenth.

On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas and announced General Order No. 3, declaring all enslaved people free, in accordance with the Emancipation Proclamation issued by President Abraham Lincoln more than two years earlier. This day came to be known as Juneteenth and has since become a symbol of African American freedom and resistance.

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The Great Galena Balloon Race: A sky-high adventure

The charming town of Galena is set to host the annual Great Galena Balloon Race from June 21-23, 2024.

The Great Galena Balloon Race has become a beloved tradition, drawing crowds that are eager to experience the thrill and beauty of ballooning. Held over three days, this year’s event promises excitement with a range of activities suitable for all ages.

During the event, there will be live music, hot air balloon races, a classic car show and more. The event is raising money for Camp Hertko Hollow and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

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