John Hassey, an ordained minister and one of Chicago’s leading pre-marital counselors and divorce mediators, thinks anything is possible.

“Marriage is not necessarily about what you do, or do not, have in common,” says Hassey. “If a couple cannot negotiate the challenges and pitfalls that come during married life, they may find themselves at Divorce’s doorstep.”

Over the past few years, Hassey has spent hundreds of hours counseling couples – ranging from newlyweds, the married-minded and same-sex partnerships to relationships on the verge of breakup – with a simple goal: build love and trust and elevate intimacy. In his counseling sessions, he works through his clients’ emotional issues, helps them tackle adversity and remove the barriers that block verbal and emotional expression.

“Most of the couples I counsel truly believe they are entering into their unions on a sure footing, but many lack the two basic fundamentals for maintaining long-term relationships: communicating with clarity and managing conflict.”

In light of the nation’s staggering divorce rate, the relationship aficionado will be hosting “I Do: From Vows to Reality” on September 25, 2011, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at The James Chicago Hotel to prepare couples who have recently tied the knot or are in the process of planning their nuptials or civil unions. In this one-day, intensive workshop, couples will learn how to enhance their relationships by boosting their communication skills, troubleshoot their way through conflict and overcome avoidance issues.

Prior to the workshop, couples will complete an in-depth, online relationship evaluation which covers nine key categories, ranging from communication and conflict resolution to financial management and spiritual beliefs. The evaluation will provide each couple with tangible results and areas to focus on for improving their relationship.

During the seven-hour workshop, Hassey will address conflict sources and provide simple techniques and how-tos – via ground-breaking case studies, real-life success stories, open discussion, demonstrations & practice sessions – that couples can use to diffuse tension/anger; alleviate and overcome conflict and other difficult situations; increase their feelings of love and intimacy; and improve communication for more open and honest expression.

“I Do: From Vows to Reality” will also include special presentations by Anne Wagner, who will discuss the roles that fear and vulnerability play within a relationship; and TantraNova Institute’s Dr. Elsbeth Meuth and Freddy Zental Weaver – the renowned intimacy/relationship coaches who’ve produced best-selling videos and have been featured on the popular Showtime series, “Sexual Healing”, and NBC’s Emmy-winning show, “Starting Over” – will share the secrets for finding peace and love within ourselves and our relationships. At the conclusion of the workshop, couples will have the opportunity to schedule a private and complimentary consultation with John Hassey to review the results of their relationship evaluation and discuss possible next steps.

Geared for newlyweds, engaged and pre-engaged couples, this workshop is also recommended for couples who want to learn new ways to build stronger relationships but may not be ready to take the plunge into counseling.

The workshop will be limited to twenty-five couples to ensure a truly unique and personal experience. The cost per couple is $425 per couples through September 4 (starting September 5, price increases to $525) and includes a pre-workshop personality/relationship evaluation; a one-hour, post-workshop session with John Hassey; and breakfast and lunch.

For more information about John Hassey and “I Do: From Vows to Reality”, please visit: www.JohnHassey.com/ido or call (312) 884-9830.

# # #

Media Contact:

Kerry Shorr, (312) 545-5451
Kerry@ShorrPR.com

Premarital Counselor & Mediation Expert Presents “I Do: From Vows to Reality” on September 25 at The James Chicago Hotel | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

From May 27-30, Celebrate Summer with a Variety of Outdoor Events and Activities

There’s no better place to spend Memorial Day Weekend than in Chicago, which Priceline.com named the most popular destination for Memorial Day 2011.

Chicago’s North Michigan Avenue captured the #1 spot in the survey of the nation’s 50 most popular Memorial Day destinations. In the nine years that priceline.com has published the list, Chicago has taken the top spot four times.

Kick off the summer season by exploring new neighborhoods, swimming at lakefront beaches, catching a Major League Baseball game and more.

Or visitors can honor the spirit of the weekend by enjoying the Memorial Day Parade and visiting the National Vietnam Veteran’s Art Museum.

Visitors to the city are invited to make their first stop the Visitor Information Center in the Chicago Cultural Center, located at 77 East Randolph Street. For more information on Memorial Day activities in Chicago, or to book accommodations, visit www.ExploreChicago.org.

Chicago Greeter and Instagreeter Neighborhood Outposts

Let a friendly, knowledgeable Greeter be your guide on a free, customized walking tour for groups of up to six people. Register today and choose a neighborhood or interest to explore, such as architecture, history, or ethnic Chicago. For greater flexibility with no advance registration, try an Instagreeter tour of the Loop (Fridays-Sundays), Millennium Park (daily), or at one of three neighborhood outposts – at the Hyde Park Hyde Park Art Center (5020 S. Cornell Ave.), Second City (1616 N. Wells St.) in Old Town, and the Pilsen outpost, new in 2011, at the National Museum of Mexican Art (1852 W. 19th Street). Check www.ExploreChicago.org for the Instagreeter neighborhood outpost schedule on Saturdays from May 28 – October 8.

Chicago’s Lakefront Beaches

Chicago’s beaches are open for the summer! The Chicago Park District manages the city’s 29 beaches along Lake Michigan for the enjoyment of Chicago families and visitors. Chicago’s lakefront is also home to a lakefront biking and running trail, volleyball, soccer, concessions, golf courses, harbors, and bird sanctuaries. Admission to Chicago’s beaches is free and open to the public, with lifeguards on duty from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., daily through Labor Day.

Visitors can also enjoy a spectacular fireworks show overlooking the lakefront when Navy Pier begins its summer fireworks season on Saturday, May 28 at 10:15 p.m.

Baseball: A Chicago Tradition

No summer trip to Chicago would be complete without a visit to Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs and the nation’s second-oldest major league baseball park. Wrigley Field is easily accessible by the Red Line “El” train, which is part of the complete Cubs fan experience. Catch the Cubs on May 27, 28, 29 and 30 against the Pirates and May 30 against the Astros.

7th Annual Randolph Street Market Festival

The internationally known Randolph Street Market Festival kicks off its seventh season this Memorial Day weekend. Located at Plumber Hall in the West Loop neighborhood, this indoor/outdoor European-style market is the largest in the Midwest. Featuring more than 200 antique dealers selling everything from high-end antiques to vintage collectibles, the Market is often compared to Paris’ legendary flea market. Open Saturday, May 28 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, May 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival

The 27th annual Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival showcases the bustling nightlife and entertainment scene of the surrounding Lakeview neighborhood. Boasting popular national, regional and local music acts, this festival also features arts and crafts, fashion, food and drinks. Located on Sheffield Avenue between Belmont Avenue and School Street, the festival runs Saturday, May 28 and Sunday, May 29 from noon to 10 p.m.

MEMORIAL DAY-SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES

Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony and Parade

The Chicago Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony and Parade is scheduled for Saturday, May 28. The Ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. at the Eternal Flame on Daley Plaza in Chicago (Dearborn and Washington Streets).

The parade steps off at noon and proceeds south on State Street from Lake Street to Van Buren Street. Chicago’s Memorial Day Parade is considered one of the largest in the nation, with 10,000 people participating annually.  Participants include many area high schools’ Marching Bands, Drum and Bugle Corps as well as many Veterans’ groups, JROTC and the military. This year’s Grand Marshal will be General Raymond T. Odierno, United States Army, Commander, U.S. Joint Forces Command.

National Vietnam Veterans Art Museum

The National Vietnam Veterans Art Museum inspires greater understanding of the real impact of war with a focus on Vietnam.

The Museum collects, preserves and exhibits art inspired by combat and created by veterans. Located in the Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood at 1801 S. Indiana Avenue, the Museum houses over 1500 works of art, including paintings, photography, sculpture, poetry and music.

All works in the Museum’s permanent collection were created by more than 100 artists who chronicled their individual experiences from the Vietnam War.

The Museum is open Tuesdays – Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Check the Museum’s website at www.nvvam.org for details about special Memorial Day events.

Conflict Zone
Through June 18

In the first collaboration of its kind, 22 combat journalists and military veterans from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan share their images from the battlefield through this groundbreaking multimedia exhibit. Conflict Zone is inspired by Joao Silva, the New York Times photographer who lost both legs in a landmine blast in October 2010 in Afghanistan. Brought together by the non-profit Independence Fund, Silva’s colleagues from the press corps agreed to pool their work for an art exhibit that features some of the most celebrated combat journalists and photographers of this generation. Conflict Zone is the creation of the Independence Fund and is being sponsored in Chicago by the National Veterans Art Museum. It is presented in partnership with the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture at Expo 72, 72 E. Randolph Street.

Chicago War Memorials

Memorial Day is a day to remember those who served, fought, and died in defense of America.  Within Chicago are more than 30 war memorials located throughout the city, giving visitors an opportunity to honor those who served their country while learning about Chicago’s rich cultural history. More information about the city’s memorials can be found at www.ExploreChicago.org.

VISITOR INFORMATION

Visitors and Chicagoans planning to entertain out-of-town guests can receive trip-planning assistance and information by visiting www.ExploreChicago.org. Brochures and information on Chicago’s exciting events and activities are also available at the Visitor Information Centers. Friendly Visitor Representatives can answer questions and assist in planning an unforgettable itinerary. The visitor centers are located in two of the city’s most popular areas: across from Millennium Park in the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph Street; and at the historic Water Works pumping station, 163 E. Pearson Street at Michigan Avenue.

For daily alerts about fun and free things to do in Chicago, follow ExploreChicago on Twitter at www.twitter.com/explorechicago and “like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/explorechicago, where you can also weigh in on your Chicago favorites. Receive answers to your Chicago questions on the go, and tips on the latest citywide events and activities, via the FREE Twitter Concierge Service (@explorechicago) available daily.

The Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture is dedicated to promoting Chicago as a premier cultural destination to domestic and international leisure travelers, providing innovative visitor programs and services, and presenting free world-class public programs. For more information please visitwww.ExploreChicago.org.

###

For more information or for interviews, contact Joyce Rowe, joyce.rowe@explorechicago.org, 312.742.2036.

What to do in Chicago during Memorial Day weekend | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Travel star Rick Steves, the Fiery Foods Challenge, Wines of the World, Storytelling for All Ages and a photography workshop are some of the new additions to the already brimming Travel and Adventure show itinerary.

Set for January 29-30 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, the show brings an unequalled line up of activities, all included in the show admission:

• NEW: Fiery Foods Challenge that lets you taste and attempt to survive hot foods from around the world, presented by Chicago-area chefs
• NEW: Wines of the World offers more tastings, and seminars featuring wine regions from around the world
• NEW: Storytelling for all Ages brings children some of the world’s most endearing and renowned tales
• Scuba diving lessons in the world’s largest mobile scuba diving pool (no matter HOW cold it is outside, this pool – all 15,000 gallons of it! — is a toasty 72O, mimicking the temperatures of Bon Aire in the Caribbean.) All equipment is provided, even hair dryers.
• Camel Rides
• Rock Wall Climbing
• Meet travel celebrities and learn their secrets, including European expert Rick Steves, Amanda Pressner, Co-Author of The Lost Girls, and JD Rinne, an editor with Budget Travel magazine
• Almost non-stop international music and dancing on the Global Beats Stage

According to John Golicz, CEO for Unicomm, which produces the event nationally, this year’s show will also present more than 150 exhibits representing every continent. “We think the travel market is showing definite signs of recovery for 2011, and people are ready to get away,” said Golicz. “After six previous years, we’re bringing the biggest show yet to Chicago.”

“Our specialty is experiential travel,” said Golicz. “It’s not sight-seeing, it’s sight-doing, whether it’s cycling ‘inn to inn’ across Europe, taking cooking lessons in Tuscany, dive and jungle adventures in Belize, or whitewater rafting in Colorado. The traveler becomes physically immersed in the culture. But the trips also provide ‘creature comforts’ – a lovely dinner indigenous to the region, spa options and upscale lodging.”

The Travel & Adventure Show opens Saturday, January 29 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, January 30 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. (The show opens 9:30 a.m. Saturday for travel professionals.) Adult admission is $9 online with Promo Code: CHPR or $15 at the door. Children 16 year of age and under are free.

The Travel and Adventure Show is the longest-running series of consumer travel events in the U.S., with shows in the New York metro area, Los Angeles, Santa Clara, Dallas and Washington D.C. The national magazine sponsor is Budget Travel.

For more information on attending or exhibiting in the event, please visit www.adventureexpo.com/Chicago or call 203-878-2577 x100.

# # #

New Experiences and Exhibits on Board for 7th Annual Travel & Adventure Show | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

University of Illinois Springfield Chancellor Richard Ringeisen would make $273,500 annually as an advisor to the U of I president after his retirement this fall, under a proposal to be considered next week by the university board.

Under the agreement, Ringeisen would serve as consultant for long-range planning and special assistant to the president from Nov. 1 through 2011. His pay would be equal to his current salary as chancellor.

Ringeisen earlier this week announced he will step down as chancellor on Oct. 31. The U of I board of trustees will consider Ringeisen’s retirement and vote on the 14-month deal during its March 10 meeting.

Ringeisen’s new duties would include making recommendations for the Springfield campus’ development, aiding the transition to new leadership, and planning in development activities and other events to promote the Springfield campus.

Ringeisen would also be a consultant to the next U of I president (the university has yet to name a successor for former U of I President Joseph White).

Tom Hardy, University of Illinois spokesman, said this type of agreement is not unusual for senior administrators.

“Frequently, when they’re done with that, they will go back to a position in the faculty because they generally come out of tenured faculty ranks into these administrative positions,” he said.

Ringeisen holds the rank of professor in UIS’s mathematical sciences program.

Ringeisen is going to forego returning to a tenured faculty position from his administrative role as chancellor,” Hardy said. “He will stay on for a year and serve the president and work involving the status of the university’s campus and strategic position and its future.”

Hardy noted that UIS will celebrate its 40th anniversary this fall, and Ringeisen will be able to be a part of that.

According to board documents, if the agreement is approved, Ringeisen will be “subject to any salary adjustment program applied to comparable level University administrators during the period of this agreement.”

Ringeisen also will be eligible to be reimbursed for his travel expenses. Ringeisen has said he and his wife, Carolyn, plan to move to North Carolina after his retirement to be closer to family.

Amanda Reavy can be reached at 788-1525.

Read the original article from The State Journal-Register.

Ringeisen to continue as consultant after retirement | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

The move was meant to inspire people to use the federal holiday, established in 1983, to volunteer to improve lives, bridge social barriers, and move closer to the “beloved community” King envisioned.

If you are looking for a way to volunteer Monday, go to mlkday.gov.

Here are events to commemorate King:

Elected officials and candidates for office will be asked to make public commitments on economic and environmental justice issues, including green jobs, housing and transportation at 2:30 today at St. Thomas Apostle Catholic Church, 5472 S. Kimbark Ave.

Elected officials are hosting volunteer projects that include helping seniors winterize their homes and painting school classrooms. Volunteers can show up from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday at 5533 N. Broadway or 4327 N. Lincoln Ave. or reply to jen@heathersteans.com.

Families can make crafts — including coasters, key chains and place mats — for Habitat for Humanity and other charities. The Kindness Connection will host two sessions Monday at the Winnetka Park District, 540 Hibbard Road, Winnetka. The cost is $5 a person to cover supplies. Volunteers can register at info@thekindnessconnection.org.

DuSable Museum is hosting an all-day celebration Monday, featuring theatrical and dance performances, animated films and two special symposiums to discuss the experiences of civil rights activists. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 740 E. 56th Place. More information is at dusablemuseum.org. Admission is $8 for adults, $5 for children age 4 and older, $6 for members.

Northwestern University will feature a performance by Chicago jazz pianist Ramsey Lewis and his trio, as well as lectures, panel discussions, and film, music and theater events. Lewis will perform at noon at Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, 50 Arts Circle Dive, Evanston. The event is free. For a list of other events visit northwestern.edu/mlk.

King’s personal friends will share memories of the civil rights leader at 3:30 p.m. at the Belmont Village Senior Living center, 1035 Madison St. in Oak Park. Dr. Quentin Young, who was King’s personal physician, and Dr. Herbert Lerner, a Hyde Park pediatrician, will speak.

DePaul University will host a series of events, including a re-enactment of King’s 1967 “A Time to Break Silence” speech at a 7:30 a.m. prayer breakfast in the DePaul Student Center, 2250 N. Sheffield Ave., Room 120.

For more information visit: events.depaul.edu.

– Kristen Mack

Read the original article from Tribune News Services.

MLK Day: Cultural, charitable events planned | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

WineMcGee.com today released their new event management suite, designed to help restaurants, wine retailers, and wineries promote, ticket, and mange their wine events.

The Web site also creates a new marketplace for wine lovers to purchase tickets to wine tasting events, classes, festivals, and dinners online directly from event hosts.

“It’s a very exciting time in the industry and we’re thrilled to be connecting our users to local wine tastings and events,” said Michael Siegler, founder of WineMcGee.

“We want to continue to help people experience and learn more about wine, and our new marketplace does exactly that.”

WineMcGee.com is driven by a growing social community of wine drinkers and direct relationships with retailers, restaurants, wineries, and event management companies.

The new management suite helps streamline the marketing process for event hosts, provides comprehensive e-ticketing, email list management, invite, and RSVP functionality.

The Web site has already proven useful to local Chicago restaurants and public relations firms.

“WineMcGee is a new and extremely useful service for me. Since it launched, I have been posting my client’s wine dinners on the site and we have had a great response,” says Sherri Maddick, Owner of Maddick Media Public Relations.

“What I love about this site over similar sites that exist on the internet is that it looks as beautiful as it is functional. It’s also very simple to use! Founder Michael Siegler has a true passion for wine, which I think comes across in the way he has created this new venture.

I have been doing public relations for independent restaurants for 23 years and I have witnessed many changes in the media. This is a wonderful new addition for those directly involved in the hospitality business. Everyone should try it and see how it can help increase guests in their restaurants.”

The new event management tools were built to address the major problems facing event hosts today.

When posting an event, hosts can make use of the one-click publishing system, which instantly pushes the event to Facebook, Twitter, and several other event sites online.

The ticketing platform is full-featured and easy to use, and the email list management tools allow hosts to track bounces, opt-outs, and conversions.

Chicago Web Site ‘WineMcGee.com’ Unveils Wine Tasting Marketplace | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Up until now there has been a problem when parents or other family members have tried to find Santa in the Chicago area. While the man in the red suit is appearing in hundreds of different  local venues, except for a few well publicized area events, it has been hard to actually find the old guy.

A new online resource, santainchicago.com, tracks all events where you can find Santa throughout the Chicago area.

A new Internet company, santainchicago.com, thinks they have solved this problem.

SantainChicago.com has pinpointed all of the various Santa events in cities and towns throughout the Chicagoland area and nearby Northern Illinois suburbs.

The Web site lists over 375 different places and events in the Chicago area where you can find Santa during the 2009 Christmas season.

To make it easy to find out exactly what kind of Santa events are available, they have listed each event by location and type.

For example, many area cities and towns have Santa offerings that include parades, tree lightings, children’s activities and more.

You’ll find just about every place that Santa is appearing in cities from Addison through Zion.

Events are broken down into different categories.

There are separate listings for area malls, organizations offering breakfasts, lunches and dinners with Santa, train trips with the “jolly old elf,” where to find Santa houses, where to go for pet pictures, plus  offbeat and unusual Santa events.

You’ll also find organizations that  host “Santa from times past” evoking a nostalgic yearning for Christmases of long ago. Free Santa events are highlighted so they are easy to find, you’ll learn where to go for story time with Santa and Mrs. Claus and you can even locate places offering pet pictures with Santa.

Want to cut your own tree?

One of the listings includes Christmas tree farms where you not only get your own tree, but let the children visit with Santa. There are events for special needs children—little ones with physical and developmental disabilities—where they can see Santa without having to wait in line.

An interesting addition to the web site is the “top ten Santa events in Chicagoland and Northern Illinois”, which makes it a breeze to discover some of the best and most popular Santa happenings at a glance.

Other resources you’ll find on the site are where you can hire a Santa and some free things available from Santa—for example recipes for his favorite Christmas cookies.

For more information, or to find Santa anywhere in the Chicago area, please visit santainchicago.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

John Sullivan, 630-837-9241
Jsul272@wowway.com

Find Santa in Chicago: New Web Site Tracks Santa Throughout Chicago and Suburbs This Holiday Season | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Illinois offers a flurry of festive happenings as popular attractions showcase the spirit of the season – marvel at massive light displays, interact with characters from old-fashioned Christmases, or tempt your taste buds with the hottest peppers in the state.

With events and activities as unique as each winter snowflake, Illinois transforms into the land of seasonal delights and merriment.

The winter celebrations listed below make it easy enjoy each region of the state and rediscover the magic of the season with your family and friends.

CHICAGO

By the time the first frost covers the ground, Chicago is ready to welcome winter. One of the most anticipated and visited markets in the city, Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza, Nov. 26 – Dec. 24, kicks off in time for the holidays.

Visit this seasonally delightful German heritage festival and bazaar and witness the plaza transformed into a holiday wonderland where you can procure German trinkets and taste delicious holiday fare such as savory sausages and sweet waffles.

Be sure to grab a glass of Gluhwein, a traditional German holiday hot spiced wine to please your palate and warm your heart, in a take-home souvenir mug.

For more information, contact Christkindlmarket (312-644-2662, christkindlmarket.com).

Visit the Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier, Dec. 4 – Jan. 3, when Navy Pier turns into a magnificent winter spectacle of attractions, food and more.

A festive spot for both city dwellers and visitors, the Winter Wonderfest transports patrons to a land of beautiful, ornate winter scenes and brings the magic of the holidays to life. A great family destination, kids can enjoy a pop-up jungle gym and inflatable games and train rides, just to name a few.

For more information, contact Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier (312-595-7437, winterwonderfest.com).

Lace up your skates and glide through an ice rink in the heart of the city at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park, open for the season Nov. 18 – March 14.

The scenic rink has been a staple of winter festivities in Chicago for nine years, drawing over 100,000 skaters annually. Bring your own skates, or rent them for $10 to enjoy a brisk glide around the rink with your friends and family.

Afterwards, warm up with some hot chocolate, browse the surrounding shops or stroll through Millennium Park to see how it transforms in the winter months.

For more information, contact Millennium Park (312-744-6050, millenniumpark.org).

CHICAGOLAND

Visit the Chicago Botanic Garden as the Wonderland Express Returns to the Garden, Nov. 27 – Jan. 3.

Take a trip through a wonderland of twinkling lights and holiday beauty where 750,000 lights sparkle outside, while inside, a 10,000 square-foot exhibition of miniature trains winds over bridges, past waterfalls and through more than 80 mini-replicas of Chicago’s favorite landmarks.

A brand new ice skating rink will be on the Esplanade for visitors to enjoy, or they can choose to snowshoe on the paths of the McDonald Woods.

For more information, contact the Chicago Bontanic Garden (847-835-5440, chicagobotanic.org).

Nearly 1 million twinkling lights illuminate the zoo‟s walkways during Brookfield Zoo’s 28th Annual Holiday Magic, every weekend in December. After visiting Santa at the Candy Cane Corner, enjoy ice-carving demonstrations, magicians and live musical performances, sample holiday treats and browse the gift shops with hundreds of unique items. New this year is the Wild Lights Spectacular light show at Roosevelt Fountain.

For more information, contact Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo (708-688-8361, czs.org/czs/holidaymagic.aspx).
Enter a world of exquisite Christmas extravagance at “A Glimpse of Christmas Past” at the Cuneo Museum, Nov. 27 – Dec. 31.

The stunning mansion will be decorated in holiday finery; lights, garland, decorated trees and poinsettias add festive beauty to an already breathtaking backdrop. And the Winter Wonderland Holiday Light Show at the museum, Nov. 27 – Jan. 2, is a Lake County tradition. The thousands of twinkling lights and captivating holiday displays create an enchanting experience for all.

For more information, contact the Cuneo Museum (847-362-3042, cuneomuseum.org).

NOTHERN

The sky will light up in festive colors throughout the 21st Annual Holiday Festival of Lights, Nov. 29 – Dec. 31, display in Rockford. More than 50 lighted displays are featured throughout Sinnissippi Park. Drive through the scenic park to view breathtaking seasonal exhibits and see why this festive drive hosts more than 120,000 spectators each year.

For more information, contact Rockford Fire and Ice (815-965-0768, rockfordfireandice.com).

Take a stroll through a real life winter wonderland in Rockton. The Christmas Walk Weekend in Rockton, Dec. 4 – 6, kicks off the holiday season with a full calendar of events and fun for the whole family.

The festive holiday and Christmas decorations will paint a perfect background for reindeer sightings, elves and, of course, snowmen walking the streets. Lights will be twinkling from the stores, and plenty of hot chocolate and treats will be served to enhance the spirit of the season.

For more information, contact Rockton Christmas Walk (815-624-7625, rocktonchristmaswalk.com).

A favorite holiday tradition, the Freeport Luminary Walk, Dec. 5, is an enchanting evening full of holiday magic. Take a guided hike through hundreds of glowing luminaries and encounter special guests along the route who will share their holiday themed stories.

End the night in front of a roaring fire at the lodge and listen to live holiday music. Enjoy sweet treats as you warm up or visit the Children‟s Holiday Giving Store.

For more information, contact Freeport Park District (815-235-6114, freeportparkdistrict.org).

CENTRAL

Visit Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch in Rantoul to see the famous herd of Alaskan reindeer. The ranch plays host to visitors from across the nation who’ve come to see the beautiful relatives of Santa’s eight legendary friends.

The 100-year-old barns, which have been recently restored, house the animals and five acres of fertile farm grounds produce more than five thousand Christmas trees. Take your family for a day in the country to see the reindeer and pick out a magnificent tree to cut down and bring home to decorate.

For more information, contact Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch (217-893-3407, reindeerranch.com).

It is time to rock around the Christmas tree at the Holly Jolly Jasper County Christmas celebration, Dec. 4, 11 and 18, in downtown Newton.

The annual event is modeled after Burl Ive‟s Christmas hit, “Holly Jolly Christmas,” and brings the musical magic to life.

From the arrival of Santa Claus to puppet shows and carriage and wagon rides, there is something for everyone at the celebration. Enjoy family pictures, carolers, and arts and crafts from the previous centuries.

For more information, contact Jasper County Tourism (618-783-3399, newtonillinois.com).

Join the Dana-Thomas House Foundation to celebrate the holiday season in the grand manner of Mrs. Dana during the Holiday Season at the Dana-Thomas House, Dec. 2 – 31. The house is beautifully decorated, and live, classical music is preformed on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Evening tours are available to enjoy the house under candlelight.

Other special events include a Children‟s Story Hour in the Library, Family Night and Luminaria Sunday when 1,000 candles in paper sacks line the walkways around the house.

For more information, contact the Dana-Thomas House (217-788-9452, dana-thomas.org).

WESTERN

Peoria welcomes the spirit of the holidays with the East Peoria Festival of Lights holiday light show, Dec. 4 – 31. Help kick off the 25th year of the light extravaganza at the holiday parade taking place 5:45pm on Nov. 28 when 30 floats glide down the street of East Peoria, and intricate shapes evolve to giant masterpieces decorated with hundreds of mini and LED lights.

The floats are then showcased throughout the city at various holiday festivals including Folepi’s Winter Wonderland, where cars can drive through to marvel at the floats from their cars.

For more information, contact the Peoria Area Convention and Visitor Bureau (800-365-3743, cityofeastpeoria.com).

Celebrate 20 years of holiday magic and whimsical lights at the 21st Annual Windmont Park Lighting/Drive of Lights, Dec. 6 – Jan. 1, in Kewanee. The lighting ceremony commences with the annual holiday parade and honors the beautiful displays created by the Windmont Park lighting committee.

The motifs celebrate and truly capture the spirit of the holiday season as thousands of twinkling lights outline bridges, fences and luminaries surrounding the lagoon.

For more information, contact Kewanee Chamber of Commerce (309-852-2175, kewanee-il.com).

Grab your snow boots and skis for a getaway full of winter adventure at Ski Snowstar Winter Sports Park in Andalusia. With 28 acres of skiable terrain, all levels of skiers and snowboarders will find runs to suit their skills.

Snowboarders can take it to the next level at the Terrain Park, and non-skiers or snowboarders can get their thrills at the Stargazer Tubing Hill with five lanes and a 68-foot vertical drop.

For more information, contact Ski Snowstar (309-798-2666, skisnowstar.com).

SOUTHERN

‘Tis the season for holiday cheer, and what better way to celebrate than with an old-fashioned traditional Metropolis Christmas Parade, Dec. 5.

Visit the timeless town of Metropolis to watch as Santa makes his grand entrance, listen to bands playing favorite holiday tunes as they march down the street, and wave to the parade floats created by community organizations as they glide through town.

For more information, contact the City of Metropolis Tourism (877-424-5025, metropolistourism.com).

Come out to the farms of Darn Hot Peppers to say “Feliz Navidad” to fellow pepper-lovers. At the Darn Hot Peppers Holiday Open House, Dec. 12, in Cobden, experience a Mexican twist on the holidays with plenty of Mexican Hot Chocolate, spicy cider and other delicacies such as pan dulce and tamales.

Warm up with hot treats and spicy eats, including homegrown pepper samples that will keep your winter burning.

For more information, contact Darn Hot Peppers (217-774-2244, darnhotpeppers.com).

The Olde Tyme Christmas, Dec. 13, is an homage to Christmases past at Fort Massac in Metropolis. See reenactments of Christmas traditions from the French Colonial, American Revolution, Lewis and Clark, War of 1812 and the Civil War periods at this celebrated event.

After reliving these scenes from the past and learning some old traditions to make new again, head to the visitors‟ center to spread holiday cheer with seasonal music and refreshments.

For more information, contact Fort Massac State Park (618-534-4712, dnr.state.il.us).

SOUTHWEST

Get up close and personal to beautiful eagles as they take flight at the Locks & Dam Eagle Meet and Greet, Jan. 17, 24, 31 and Feb. 7. Visitors will have an opportunity to see, learn and ask questions about the eagles and their habitats at the National Great Rivers Museum.

Afterwards, enjoy eagle viewing in the area by taking a 75-minute trolley tour where you can watch eagles in their natural habitat.

For more information, contact the Alton Regional Convention and Vistors Bureau (618-550-9291, visitalton.com).

Walk through a winter wonderland during the Rock Spring Park Christmas Wonderland Holiday Light Display, Nov. 27 – Dec. 27, in Alton.

See more than 2.5 million lights adorning trees and lighting displays throughout the park from the comfort of your vehicle as you cruise through the scenic drive with your family and friends. Be captivated by the holiday spirit and enjoy lovely holiday displays that evoke the warmth and joy of the season.

For more information, contact the Alton Regional Convention and Visitors Bureau (618-458-6986, visitalton.com).

The city of Belleville honors everyone‟s favorite holiday cookie with the annual Gingerbread Walk, Nov. 24 – Jan. 4. Take a leisurely stroll along East Main Street where dozens of edible gingerbread creations are displayed in shop windows.

Register for the contest online and begin baking your Gingerbread dream house. Categories include Masters, Best of Show, Fantasy and Children’s. Cash prizes are awarded and honors such as Mayor’s Choice are given out.

Stop at each window to marvel at these sweet scenes inspired from seasons’ past, then duck inside the stores to warm up and shop.

For more information, contact Belleville Main Street (618-239-9428, bellevillemainstreet.net).

To experience the magic of the season‟s must-see attractions and activities, the Illinois Bureau of Tourism offers information on related one-of-a-kind attractions, events, accommodations and 3-Day Getaway ideas through the Bureau‟s Web site, enjoyillinois.com, or call the Illinois Call Center at 800-2CONNECT.

Residents and tourists can obtain guides from any Tourist Information Center, local convention and visitors bureaus, or regional tourism development offices across the state.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Media materials and downloadable images are now available on the Illinois Bureau of Tourism online media center at illinoismediacenter.com.

Additional photography, available electronically, may be obtained by contacting Amy Detmer at amy.detmer@edelman.com, 312-552-1142.

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Bureau of Tourism manages industry efforts that result in sustainable and significant economic and quality-of-life benefits for Illinois residents.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Amy Detmer, 312-552-1142
amy.detmer@edelman.com

Walk Through Illinois’ Wintry Wonderland; ‘Tis the Season for Cheerful Events and Exploring Holiday Magic in Illinois | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

October is Chicago Artists Month: Celebrate the Visual Arts Community With Over 200 Neighborhood Art Walks, Studio Open Houses, Exhibitions and Events | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has unveiled a new interactive tool to keep families informed about outdoor youth activities going on throughout the state.

The new online calendar features descriptions and information about hundreds of youth activities happening at state parks and other areas across Illinois.

“Youth recruitment is a top priority of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources,” said IDNR Director Marc Miller. “Many children today suffering from “nature deficit disorder” and one reason for that may be that parents simply aren’t aware or don’t know where to look for outdoor opportunities.

This calendar is an easy tool to quickly see the many different types of activities available close to home.”

The calendar, which is located on the DNR website, contains information on upcoming programs, educational opportunities as well as links to other resources. By logging on, you can also sign up for e-mail announcements that will alert you to upcoming youth events in your area.

“There is nothing more important than fostering a love and appreciation of the outdoors in our youth,” said IDNR Assistant Director, John Rogner. “We hope that this calendar will help us grow a new generation of conservation stewards in Illinois.”

The youth program online calendar can be found at dnr.state.il.us/youthprograms.

If you have any questions about an upcoming program, or have something you would like to add to the calendar, please contact Olivia Dorothy, at 217-557-1214.

IDNR Launches New Interactive Calendar Focused on Outdoor Youth Events | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.