So, in 1997 a movement began to undo the "urban renewal" that had changed the face of our downtown square. This weekend, we celebrated years of hard work, dedication, determination and drive as Jacksonville celebrated our downtown turnaround. Our square has re-opened. Vibrancy and excitement has returned!!! The Clydesdales came to town on Tuesday, and we all spent hours visiting them in their temporary stables on the square. The excitement was palpable!
My friend Sue and I paid a visit as they arrived.
Finley fell in love..we visited ALOT
She loved King!
The ferris wheel returned to the town where it was built..in the 1930's.
The Three Legged Dog Concession trailer arrived...
Joey, Papa Joe, Jake and Dave got to work.
Shops decorated...
Special guests arrived...for the YMCA Pavilion, courtesy of Bound To Stay Bound Books
Maggie, Henry, U.S. Secretary of the Department of Transportation Ray LaHood, me, Millie and Finley
Congressman Aaron Schock, check out the current cover of Men's Health to see more! Cole is going to his 30th birthday party this Wednesday.
Saturday....and the day of celebration begins....
Sam and Julie ride the ferris wheel
The concession trailer was swamped....all day long!
An amazing parade...
Annie and Madeline on our rooftop perch
Maggie, Adam and family.....
We love our tractors!
The Rambulance!
Finley had a great view of the parade
From my view on the roof, I caught Papa Joe enjoying his first hot dog!
The fun continued at the Y tent....
Music class...
Rumba with Angie and Curious George
Face painting with "Suzie I Love You"
Friends...and more friends....
Our personal trainer...Josh and Jace and Kelsey
Madeline and little Miss Hollywood...Finley
Jon, Papa Joe and Millie
Addie and Jeff
Hula hoop contest
Talent contest
Our judges... State Representative Jim Watson, Miss Polly, and Laura Moy
I told you that the Dog stayed busy!
My wonderful staff
Friends...
Yoga with Julia...
The amazing Nate juggling!
Cupcake decorating
The cakewalk....
Pet Parade...
It was wonderful!!
Waiting for the fireworks, listening to the bands...
The line was never ending!
Heather, Papa Joe and Maggie
I LOVE my town!!
Location:Jacksonville, Illinois
