
CHANGES FOR RIBFEST JULY 1-4 2021
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE–The Exchange Club of Naperville, organizers of the 33rd annual Ribfest, have spent the past few months in constant careful situation analysis, in order to accurately and comprehensively assess all factors in regard to its plans for Ribfest, July 1-4, 2021.
In consideration of the ongoing COVID-19 conditions and recently mandated capacity restrictions, the Club has concluded that it cannot reasonably guarantee health, safety, and success for such a large-scale public event that occurs in the early portion of the summer festival schedule and is thus susceptible to the instability of COVID-related conditions like capacity restrictions. Therefore, the Exchange Club of Naperville, along with the Village of Romeoville, regretfully announces that Ribfest will be unable to occur over Independence Day weekend 2021.
This extremely difficult decision comes after much deliberation about any possibility of presenting the family fun, philanthropy, dining, and music throughout Independence Day Weekend that have become synonymous with “Ribfest” for thousands of attendees every year. The Exchange Club of Naperville has been pleased to partner with the Village of Romeoville in planning for Ribfest in Deer Crossing Park, and begin optimistic planning for 2022.
In a joint statement, Bob Black, the 2021 Ribfest Chairman, and Jerry Kochurka, Exchange Club of Naperville President, explained further: “As a not-for-profit organization, the Exchange Club of Naperville donates proceeds from our annual Ribfest event to multiple agencies in the fight against child abuse and domestic violence. We are, of course, greatly disappointed that circumstances have left us unable to responsibly and in good conscience hold Ribfest this year, or put our funding or any future Ribfest at risk.”
The Exchange Club of Naperville will announce developments as they arise.
In lieu of ticket-package purchases, supporters will be given the option of making a tax-deductible donation toward the Exchange Club of Naperville’s mission to prevent child abuse and domestic violence.
The Exchange Club of Naperville extends its heartfelt gratitude for the support and patience of all Ribfest 2021 early sponsors including Grand Sponsors ABC7 Chicago, Budweiser, Citgo, Hollywood Casino Aurora, Jewel-Osco, and Meijer, as well as all of its patrons, as we continue to navigate these challenging times together. Everyone is encouraged to continue to support one another and community charitable partners. The Exchange Club of Naperville continues to support its partners in ending child abuse in all forms, and its membership is open to anyone who would like to join the crusade to end child abuse.
Visit www.ribfest.net for Ribfest updates, donation opportunities, and membership information.
SOURCE: Naperville Exchange Club & Elle Services