I can just about feel the sun beating down and smell the smoky scent of pulled pork wafting through the air. The distant sounds of live music can be heard as I approach the gates to buy my tickets and make my donation to the Exchange Club. This is the highlight of almost every summer for myself and so many others.
The news just came down that we will have yet another summer without a Ribfest event. My first reaction was one of sadness and frustration. As we start to get vaccinated and are seemingly moving into the last phases of COVID recovery, I really thought we might have a shot at joining together to celebrate.
I just felt like I needed to share my disappointment because I know how this affects so many of you. Even though we won’t be shoulder to shoulder enjoying Ribfest, I would urge all of you to safely celebrate those wonderful aspects of Ribfest that we enjoy so much on your own.
Fire up your grill and slow cook those saucy ribs. Choose a band to “perform,” make a setlist, and turn that nice big Bluetooth speaker up to 11. Invite friends and loved ones to share all the sounds and smells of Ribfest, and to continue helping the Exchange Club on their mission to prevent child abuse and domestic violence.
Oh, yeah, one last thing you’ll need for your celebration. The fireworks spectacular at Frontier Park presented by Naperville Responds for Veterans as the finale to the Naperville Salute event on Independence Day! There will of course be a focus on public safety, so watch for updates in the weeks to come.
Although our beloved Ribfest event is not to be this year, I do feel fortunate to live in a community that chooses the safety of its people above all else.
And just think… How great will next year be?!!
Meanwhile, please consider helping the Exchange Club prevent child abuse and domestic violence by making a donation at www.ribfest.net.
