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RIBFEST 2023 BAND ANNOUNCEMENT Third Eye Blind to Support Ribfest September 15, 2023 Legendary San Francisco-based rock band, Third Eye Blind, headline Ribfest’s Friday night at the DuPage Event Center and Fairgrounds in Wheaton on Friday, September 15, 2023. “Third Eye Blind is the perfect band to kick-off Ribfest 2023,” said 2023 Ribfest Chair Jerry Kochurka, “We are very excited that they are going to be with us and light up the evening.” About Third Eye Blind Since 1997, San Francisco's Third Eye Blind has recorded five best-selling albums and assembled one career retrospective. Led by Stephan Jenkins, 3EB has earned worldwide success during a tumultuous group of years when the major-label recording industry was finally losing its grip on an enterprise that for decades it had dominated with steely efficiency. Nothing could have made 3EB happier! Third Eye Blind’s 2021 album Our Bande Apart was recorded when lockdown ended, with Bethany Cosentino of Best Coast and Ryan Olson of Poliça. The band has continued to have gained artistic clarification—and, surprisingly, a fanbase that is larger, younger and more dedicated than ever. Third Eye Blind supported SeaTrees on its 2022 tour, an organization that helps restore a portion of the Palos Verdes Kelp Forest. The ocean has the power to restore climate change. The latest science shows that globally, kelp forests can sequester more carbon than mangrove forests - restoring these sequoias of the sea is critical to solving climate change as 93% of all carbon in the carbon cycle is stored in our oceans (meaning just 7% is stored across our atmosphere and land biosphere. ABOUT RIBFEST Ribfest is the major fundraiser hosted by the Exchange Club of Naperville to help fight child abuse and domestic violence, while strengthening families in our local communities. As a result of these fundraising efforts, in Ribfest’s 32 years, over $18 million has been contributed back to our local communities in support of these causes. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities as well as detailed event information can be found at www.ribfest.net Follow Ribfest on social media for updated information, and additional upcoming artist announcements and ticket on-sales.

RIBFEST 2023 | Third Eye Blind to Headline Wheaton Event Mid-September

Ribfest 2023 Musical Headliner Announcement

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RIBFEST RESPONDS TO TOBY KEITH CANCELLATION News broke on Sunday, June 12 that Toby Keith was battling cancer as he released a statement to his fans.  Soon after, Ribfest announced the cancellation of his performance for Friday, June 17 at Ribfest coming up this weekend in Wheaton. Keith publicly announced his battle with cancer and his need for rest and recovery at the time the notice of cancellation of a number of tour dates was received. “We are very disappointed with the news of his cancellation, but our thoughts and prayers go out to Toby and his family as he faces a very difficult and challenging time in his life,” says Bev Schafman, chairperson for this year’s Ribfest. “We are examining our options at the moment and intend to replace Toby Keith on our stage, and will announce our plans shortly. However, we stand with the millions of Toby Keith fans at this time and say, “Get well soon, Toby!” Ribfest from the Exchange Club of Naperville is returning after a two-year hiatus due to COVID 19 cancellations. Ribfest is the major fundraiser hosted by the Exchange Club of Naperville to help fight child abuse and domestic violence, while strengthening families in our local communities. As a result of these fundraising efforts, in Ribfest’s 32 years, over $18 million has been contributed back to our local communities in support of these causes. The Club extends its appreciation to the 2022 Ribfest Grand Sponsors: ABC7 Chicago,  Astound Broadband Powered by RCN , Bud Light , Coca-Cola ,  CITGO , Fantasy Amusements Co ., Hollywood Casino Aurora , Illinois Department of Transportation , Jewel Osco  and Meijer . Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities as well as detailed event information can be found at www.ribfest.net . Follow Ribfest on social media for updated information, and additional upcoming artist announcements and ticket on-sales. ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT WHEATON NAPERVILLE DUPAGE

RIBFEST 2022 | Toby Keith Cancels Ribfest Performance Due to Health Concerns

Ribfest Responds to Toby Keith Cancellation

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COUNTRY FANS ARE GOING TO LOVE THIS – TOBY KEITH IS COMING TO WHEATON'S RIBFEST WHEATON–Toby Keith, country hit-maker and Ribfest fan favorite, will help welcome Ribfest back, bringing his extensive collection of hits and renowned stage presence to the Ribfest stage at the DuPage Event Center and Fairgrounds in Wheaton, IL on Friday, June 17, 2022 for CITGO Day. “We’re thrilled to open the fest with Toby Keith,” says Bev Schafman, chair for 2022 Ribfest, “When Toby performed at Ribfest in 2017, we had one of our biggest crowds ever. It was a great night. What better way to welcome Ribfest to our new home than with a genuine superstar like Toby Keith!” Ribfest from the Exchange Club of Naperville is returning after a two-year hiatus due to COVID 19 cancellations. About Toby Keith Keith is one of the modern era's most complete self-directed hit makers and has been for nearly 30 years since he burst onto the country music scene. In 2021, he was bestowed the National Medal of Arts to honor his artistic achievements and contributions to the arts and culture of America. He also celebrated 2021 by releasing Peso in My Pocket, his first album release in over 5 years. In 2018, he celebrated the 25th anniversary of his debut No. 1 single, “Should’ve Been A Cowboy” with the re-release of his debut album (remastered with the addition of three vault tracks). From the moment that song was released and shot up the charts to become his first No. 1, the engine driving everything has been the music. Toby has sold more than 40 million albums and has 32 #1 hit singles. He wrote a #1hit every year for 20 straight years, but may be best remembered among many fans for his unexpected hit and country music viral sensation, "Red Solo Cup." The video for this song has received more than 60 million views and was named ACM Video of the Year. In 2018. Keith also released a new song, “Don’t Let The Old Man In,” which was inspired by a conversation he had with Clint Eastwood and was later featured in Eastwood’s movie, “The Mule.” In 2015, he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall Of Fame in New York City. With more than 10 billion streams and numerous performances, he is back on the road in 2022 touring throughout the country and performing at many outdoor shows and festivals. About Ribfest Ribfest is the major fundraiser hosted by the Exchange Club of Naperville to help fight child abuse and domestic violence, while strengthening families in our local communities. As a result of these fundraising efforts, in Ribfest’s 32 years, over $18 million has been contributed back to our local communities in support of these causes. The Club extends its appreciation to the 2022 Ribfest Grand Sponsors: ABC7 Chicago, Astound Broadband Powered by RCN, Bud Light, Coca-Cola, CITGO, Fantasy Amusements Co., Hollywood Casino Aurora, Jewel Osco and Meijer. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities as well as detailed event information can be found at www.ribfest.net. Follow Ribfest on social media for updated information, and additional upcoming artist announcements and ticket on-sales. www.ribfest.net  ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT WHEATON NAPERVILLE DUPAGE

RIBFEST 2022 | Toby Keith to Headline Ribfest Opening Night, June 17 In Wheaton

Country Fans are Going to LOVE This! Toby Keith Is Coming to Wheaton's Ribfest

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MEIJER DAY TO PRESENT CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED COUNTRY MUSIC ENTERTAINER Brett Eldredge, country music hitmaker, will headline Ribfest from the Exchange Club of Naperville at the DuPage Event Center and Fairgrounds in Wheaton, Illinois on Sunday, Jun 19, 2022 for Meijer Day . “We’re thrilled to bring back country music to Ribfest and to punctuate it with such a superstar as Brett Eldredge,” says Bev Schafman, chair for 2022 Ribfest, “New stars, new location, new dates, what could be more exciting? This is going to be a great day to hear country music!” Ribfest is returning after a two-year hiatus due to COVID 19 cancellations. About Brett Eldredge Warner Music Nashville recording artist Brett Eldredge is baring his soul and embracing vulnerability in his latest tracks, “Holy Water” and “Want That Back.” The new music follows his critically acclaimed fourth studio record, Sunday Drive, which took listeners on an unforgettable musical journey. With help from GRAMMY-winning producers Daniel Tashian and Ian Fitchuk, Eldredge brought the album to life by leaning into vulnerability and pulling inspiration from his own personal experiences. He released the brand-new holiday album, Mr. Christmas, in 2021 following his highly celebrated debut Christmas album, Glow. In 2016, the project inspired a single live show in Nashville, which has now grown into the annual Glow LIVE holiday tour, hitting major cities across the country. With seven country radio No. 1’s, nine Gold and Platinum-certified singles, two Gold-certified albums and multiple CMA, ACM and CMT Music nominations and wins, the critically acclaimed entertainer regularly fills arenas nationwide with his powerhouse vocals and electrifying live performances. Ribfest is the major fundraiser hosted by the Exchange Club of Naperville to help fight child abuse and domestic violence, while strengthening families in our local communities. As a result of these fundraising efforts, in Ribfest’s 32 years, over $18 million has  been contributed back to our local communities in support of these causes. The Club extends its appreciation to the 2022 Ribfest Grand Sponsors: ABC7 Chicago, Astound Broadband Powered by RCN, Bud Light, Coca-Cola, Citgo, Fantasy Amusements Co., Jewel Osco and Meijer. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities as well as detailed event information can be found at www.ribfest.n et .  Follow Ribfest on social media for updated information, and additional upcoming artist announcements and ticket on-sales. ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT WHEATON NAPERVILLE DUPAGE

RIBFEST 2022 | Country Music's Brett Eldredge to Headline Ribfest June 19 In Wheaton

Meijer Day to Present Critically Acclaimed Country Music Entertainer

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33rd ANNUAL RIBFEST SAVE THE DATE WHEATON–The Exchange Club of Naperville is excited to announce the 2022 Ribfest will be held June 17, 2022 through June 20, 2022 at the DuPage Event Center and Fairgrounds in Wheaton, IL. The venue will allow patrons plenty of space to enjoy the carnival by Fantasy Amusements Co., award winning ribs, Wintrust Community Banks family fun area and exhibits with no entry fee. The dedicated entertainment site will offer a lineup of premium artists each day and will require a ticket purchase. There is ample parking at the county complex, with continuous shuttle service to the gates. Sponsors and VIP perks include close parking in the parking deck, private entrance, upgraded bathrooms and seating as well as the best view of the stage. Ribfest is the major fundraiser hosted by the Exchange Club of Naperville to help fight child abuse and domestic violence, while strengthening families in our local communities. As a result of these fundraising efforts, in Ribfest’s 32 years, over $18 million has been contributed back to our local communities in support of these causes. The Club extends its appreciation to the 2022 Ribfest Grand Sponsors: ABC7 Chicago, Budweiser, Coca-Cola, Citgo, Fantasy Amusements Co. and Jewel Osco. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities as well as detailed event information can be found at www.ribfest.net . Follow Ribfest on social media for updated information, upcoming artist announcements and ticket on-sales. ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT NAPERVILLE WHEATON DUPAGE

RIBFEST 2022 | Ribfest Is Back this Summer and In a New Location

Save the Date! Coming to Wheaton's DuPage Event Center and Fairgrounds

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33RD ANNUAL RIBFEST The Favorited Summer Festival Might Be Planning a Comeback this Summer, Details Yet to Be Finalized WHEATON–According to many news reports on January 20, 2022, including ABC-7 CHICAGO , a DuPage County Board committee endorsed a plan to move Ribfest  to the DuPage County Fairground  fairgrounds in Wheaton after the festival was canceled twice due to COVID-19. Read complete story here MSN.com .  Stay connected for updates as they become available. ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT NAPERVILLE WHEATON DUPAGE

RIBFEST 2022 | A DuPage County Board Committee Voted to Move Ribfest from Naperville to Wheaton

33rd Annual Ribfest Event Proposed for DuPage County Fairgrounds

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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 ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT NAPERVILLE DUPAGE

RIBFEST 2021 | Important Update Regarding this Summer's Event

CHANGES FOR RIBFEST JULY 1-4 2021 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE–The Exchange Club of Naperville, organizers of the 33rd annual Ribfest, have...

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EXCHANGE CLUB OF NAPERVILLE PLANS  A MODIFIED, SAFER, BETTER RIBFEST 2021 NAPERVILLE– Organizers of the Exchange Club of Naperville’s 33rd Annual “Ribfest” are optimistic while planning the best- and safest-possible festival experience in Romeoville’s Deer Crossing Park (1050 W. Romeo Rd.) for the days and evenings of July 1 through 4, 2021. The planning committee has taken a close look at circumstances and resources, and is hand-selecting elements to include for maximum attendee enjoyment and safety, without losing any of the fun. Ribfest will have a different look and feel compared to years past, and not just because of the fantastic new venue! Social-distance-space is a primary consideration, as are other safety issues like more hand-sanitizer stations, food & beverage line spacing, and more. National ribs vendors and other food and beverage vendors have always been, and will continue to be, a mainstay, as will the stellar evening music concerts; attendees will notice a more “private” feel. The organization is thrilled that almost all of the headlining musical entertainment acts that were in place for 2020’s Ribfest are to be featured at this coming summer’s event. Announcements of 2021’s headlining acts will be announced shortly, so stay tuned! Fireworks will be a family-friendly highlight of the festival. Watch www.ribfest.net and www.facebook.com/ribfestnaperville for updates. The Club greatly appreciates the support of early 2021 Grand Sponsors Citgo and Jewel-Osco. As a community event, this annual summer festival always pulls out all the stops to ensure a fun, unifying, safe experience for all, with proceeds going to local agencies supporting the prevention of child abuse and domestic violence. This year, that will also hold true, with an additional eye on safety. “We are planning for a safe, reduced event while monitoring ongoing restrictions and guidelines,” explains 2021 Ribfest Chairman Bob Black. “It’s an ongoing examination of the best possible ways to conduct a responsible, secure event that will keep our supporters and attendees as our first priority, as they always have been.” ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT CHARITY DUPAGE

RIBFEST 2021 | Organizers Plan for the Event this Summer with Safety Modifications In Place

EXCHANGE CLUB OF NAPERVILLE PLANS A MODIFIED, SAFER, BETTER RIBFEST 2021 NAPERVILLE– Organizers of the Exchange Club of Naperville’s...

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EXCHANGE CLUB OF NAPERVILLE SHARED THE NEWS SUNDAY The Exchange Club of Naperville, organizers of the 33rd annual Ribfest, have spent the past few months in constant careful situation analysis and discussion, in order to accurately and comprehensively assess the current climate for summer festivals.  In consideration of the current COVID-19 conditions and recent capacity restrictions mandated by the state, the Club has concluded that the health and safety of Ribfest attendees, volunteers, and entertainers cannot be guaranteed for such a large-scale public event. Therefore, the Exchange Club of Naperville, along with the Village of Romeoville, regretfully believes that Ribfest simply cannot go forward this year.   “The charitable nature of this annual fundraising event allows us to provide vital funds to agencies that focus their activities on the prevention of child abuse and domestic violence in all forms,” said Bob Black, Chair of Ribfest. “As disappointed as we are not to have a 4th of July with Ribfest, after all this hard work, the greatest disappointment is the impact of not being able to raise funds through Ribfest this year for those deserving nonprofit organizations.” This extremely difficult decision comes after much deliberation about any possibility of presenting the family fun, philanthropy, dining, and music 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 this first-ever Ribfest in Deer Crossing Park, and begin optimistic planning for 2021.  “We look forward to hosting Ribfest in Romeoville come 2021,” said Romeoville Mayor John Noak. “We continue to have a strong partnership with the Exchange Club of Naperville and will continue to support its mission.”  The Exchange Club of Naperville is considering options regarding engaging musical entertainment acts for the 2021 festival, and will announce developments as they arise.  “I am very proud of the hard work that our Club has put in to create an exciting Ribfest at a new venue,” states Exchange Club President Ron Amato. “It’s unfortunate that we cannot move forward, especially for the local charities that our Club supports as part of its mission, but the health and safety of our attendees, volunteers, vendors, and Club members is paramount. We look forward to seeing everyone at Ribfest in 2021.” Information regarding refunds will be made available shortly. Ticket holders will also 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 and the Village of Romeoville extend their heartfelt gratitude for the support and patience of its patrons as we continue to navigate these challenging times together, and encourage everyone to continue to support one another and our community’s 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.

RIBFEST 2020 | Romeoville's First Ribfest Canceled Due to COVID-19 Pandemic

EXCHANGE CLUB OF NAPERVILLE SHARED THE NEWS SUNDAY The Exchange Club of Naperville, organizers of the 33rd annual Ribfest, have spent the...

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EXCHANGE CLUB OF NAPERVILLE'S RIBFEST 2020 Festival On Track for Festival of Ribs, Fun, Music Organizers of the Exchange Club of Naperville’s 33rd Annual “Ribfest” continue to work together to bring the best- and safest-possible festival experience to Deer Crossing Park in Romeoville, Illinois, planned for the days and evenings of July 2 through 5, 2020. 
 The Ribfest 2020 planning committee receives regular updates and information from local, state, and federal authorities, along with guidelines for future possible scenarios, to ensure the early and thorough addressing of all concerns regarding a large-scale public outdoor event. 
 Still in place are plans for national ribs vendors, a family-friendly carnival and activities, daytime entertainment events, and evening music concerts. The Navistar Main Stage musical entertainment this year includes Styx and REO Speedwagon on Thursday, July 2; Jesse McCartney and Nelly on Saturday, July 4; and Elle King, Cold War Kids and Fitz & The Tantrums on Sunday, July 5. A night of country music will happen on July 3 (acts will be announced soon). The Romeoville Toyota Pavilion will feature local musical acts every day and evening, and don’t forget about the always-spectacular Meijer Fireworks show, slated for Saturday, July 4 at 8pm. 
 As a community event, this annual summer festival always pulls out all the stops to ensure a fun, unifying, safe experience for all, with proceeds going to local agencies supporting the prevention of child abuse and domestic violence. This year, that will also hold true, with an additional eye on safety. 
 “We are hopeful to go forward with a safe and fun outdoor music, food, and family event as planned,” explains 2020 Ribfest Chairman Bob Black. “At the same time, we are monitoring all information available from medical sources and all governing entities” in order to ensure the best possible event with the best possible outcomes. 
 Watch www.ribfest.net  for updates, and keep your calendars marked for this year’s Exchange Club Of Naperville’s Ribfest, coming to Romeoville July 2-5, 2020. RIBFEST 2020 UPDATES

RIBFEST 2020 | Update on Festival Plans Released by Exchange Club of Naperville

EXCHANGE CLUB OF NAPERVILLE'S RIBFEST 2020 Festival On Track for Festival of Ribs, Fun, Music Organizers of the Exchange Club of...

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Naperville Ribfest Presents Rocker Sammy Hagar and The Circle • July 3, 8:30-10:00pm 
 
 Naperville Ribfest will be rocking audiences as it welcomes to its musical schedule Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Sammy Hagar and his new band The Circle. They will take fans on a musical journey through rock history spanning four decades of Hagar’s hits and other rock classics. 
  
 
 The 28th Naperville Ribfest, a popular sizzling summer fest destination, draws many visitors with its family activities, award-winning rib vendors from across the country and crowd-pleasing musical entertainment. 
  
 
 Hagar, also known as The Red Rocker, is a Grammy award-winning vocalist, guitarist, songwriter, New York Times bestselling author and musician, who in 2007 was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Van Halen.  From his beginnings with the  rock band Montrose to his multiplatinum solo career and his role as the frontman of Van Halen, he’s set the tone for some of the greatest rock anthems such as "I Can't Drive 55," "Your Love Is Driving Me Crazy," "Finish What Ya Started," and "Right Now.”  With his Cabo Wabo Tequila, Sammy’s Beach Bar Rum and succession of successful bar and restaurant brands, he’s evolved into an auspicious entrepreneur.  Hagar also takes a philanthropic role through the “Hagar Family Foundation”  with the goal of putting food on the table for those in need. For information about Sammy Hagar, visit www.redrocker.com. 
  
 
 The Circle features Michael Anthony, a longtime rhythm bassist who has played with Hagar for the past 30 years in bands including Van Halen and Chickenfoot; Vic Johnson, guitarist from Hagar’s band The Wabos; and Jason Bonham, the acclaimed drummer and son of iconic Led Zeppelin drummer, John Bonham. Sammy Hagar and The Circle will release their latest CD and digital album called “At Your Service” on May 19th. 
  
 
 For more information and to purchase tickets online, go to www.ribfest.net.  Also, to keep up to date on what’s going on at Ribfest, download the Ribfest app on the iTunes store and like us on Facebook. 
  #Ribfest #SammyHagar

RIBFEST | Sammy Hagar to Play July 3

Naperville Ribfest Presents Rocker Sammy Hagar and The Circle • July 3, 8:30-10:00pm Naperville Ribfest will be rocking audiences as it...

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