Bringing Awareness to Illinois Endangered Species

Did you know that every third Friday of May, May 16 this year, is observed as Endangered Species Day? The day was designated by Congress in 2006. In Illinois alone, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources has listed over 400 such species, ranging from birds, mammals, reptiles, insects and more! Wildlife refuges, gardens, schools, libraries, museums, community groups, nonprofits, and individuals will hold special programs or events on this day.

Each species plays an important role in Illinois’ ecosystem. By bringing awareness to these species, both threatened and endangered, the day reminds the public of the importance in supporting conservation organizations, encouraging action to protect wildlife and advocating for policy changes to ensure that the state’s ecosystem is environmentally stable.

Read more …

Did you know the first Dairy Queen was opened in Joliet?

• Fast Food

Illinois is home to the first ever Dairy Queen in the United States! Though Dairy Queen now operates over 7,700 locations with more than 250 of those being in Illinois, DQ came from humble beginnings.

The key to Dairy Queen’s early success was the development of their unique soft serve. Developed by John Fremont McCullough and his son Alex, the soft serve was first put to market at an ice cream store in Kankakee, selling more than 1,600 servings in its first day. Inspired by the success, McCullough partnered with the ice cream store and went on to open the first Dairy Queen in Joliet in 1940. The store in Joliet was so successful it began the run of a mainstay in the American fast food market.

After its initial success, DQ expanded to a franchise model that grew to 100 stores by 1947, more than 1,400 by 1950 and 2,600 in 1955. A rapid success, soft serve ice cream is now a symbol of American culture and a classic pastime.

Still a designated landmark today, the original Joliet Dairy Queen serves as a testament to Illinois’ innovation and sweet success.

Enjoy spring with an art festival!

As the flowers bloom and the school year starts to come to a close across the state, it is now the perfect time to go out with family and friends and enjoy an art festival!

During May, farmer’s markets, cities, villages and more come together to provide the community with an opportunity to partake in family friendly events, see wonderful art and support their local artists.

Check out our list below of art festival throughout Illinois this May:

Read more …

National Cartoon Day: Jack Higgins

May 5 is National Cartoonist Day. Did you know Illinois was home to Jack Higgins, a Pulitzer Prize- winning cartoonist?

Read more …