ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT | Ribfest Releases Statement Re: Toby Keith Controversy

NAPERVILLE – Some west suburban residents who have taken an anti-Trump stance have been protesting in social media about the selection of Toby Keith as Ribfest's June 30th headliner performance. These posts state that, since the popular musician is a Trump supporter and played at Trump's inaugural celebration, he is not suitable to play at Naperville's Ribfest.

Countless residents replied in support of the Ribfest's music selection, encouraging social media protesters to focus on how much the organization does for those in need, particularly children who are victims of child abuse, rather than focusing on the political views of the festival's selected musicians.

Today, The Exchange Club of Naperville released a statement on its facebook page pertaining to the controversy that ensued in social media after Toby Keith's performance was announced. It reads:

"The Exchange Club of Naperville Ribfest Confirms Toby Keith Performance

Mission driven and volunteer run, the Exchange Club of Naperville provides opportunities for its members to contribute to programs that benefit youth, strengthen the family, promote pride in our country, and honor military and public service providers.

Ribfest, this year, as it has for the past 29 years, will donate net proceeds to agencies working tirelessly to END child abuse and domestic violence in DuPage, Will, Cook and Kane Counties.

Ribfest talent is negotiated and selected months in advance of the event. At no time does the Exchange Club of Naperville make any political statement or endorsement. At no time are artists booked based on their political beliefs or actions.

Toby Keith will perform Friday, June 30th, at the 30th Anniversary Celebration of Ribfest.

Toby Keith tickets go on sale Friday, February 10th, at 10 a.m. through ribfest.net. The $30 general admission is limited so buy early.

On Saturday, the Exchange Club of Naperville made a decision to allow community members to post without restriction on the club’s Ribfest Facebook page. This was done as a measure of sensitivity to the current political climate and in a spirit of cooperation with our beloved community.

Ribfest's Facebook page must return to its "job" of sharing information about Ribfest. Going forward, any post that is politically charged or not focused on Ribfest will be removed.

Hope to see you at Ribfest."

Glancer Magazine is a proud annual sponsor of Ribfest and we hope to Glance you there this summer.

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