Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Updated Christmas Walk Event List, Dec. 6, 6-9 p.m.




Updated Christmas Walk 2014 List of Events

Note: The Lighted Christmas Parade has been canceled due to technical issues. We will be hosting the Sauk Valley's Largest Community Sing-Along at 7 p.m. in it's place.

Tree Lighting Ceremony at KSB Hospital Main Entrance -- at 6 p.m. -- Join us for the kick-off of the Christmas Walk as we light KSB's tree with help from Santa Claus and the Reagan Middle School Choir!

Community Sing-Along -- at 7 p.m. at the corner of First and Hennepin, join us as we create the Sauk Valley's Largest Christmas Caroling experience!

The Great Snowball Drop  -- at 8 p.m.-- corner of First and Peoria, with more than $1,000 in cash and prizes. Sponsored by Dixon Paint Company and ACE Hardware Top prize is a $500 shopping spree.

Pictures with Santa -- At the Mini Mall on east First Street. Get your picture with Santa and take a slide like in the classic movie A Christmas Story. Living Well Church will have cookies and refreshments.

Horse and Wagon Rides -- loading at Town Square Center

50/50 Raffle -- Annual Christmas Walk Raffle. Tickets are $5 each or a 5 for $20. Last year's winner took home $3,500. Tickets available at our raffle booth by Books on First or at Venier's Jewelry.

Live Reindeer -- Come see Santa's reindeer by Mama Cimino's on Peoria Ave.

Rosbrook Studio -- Come up to Rosbrook Studio for childrens' activities during Dixon's 25th Annual Christmas Walk! Make paper chains and string popcorn garlands for the Christmas tree! Dance to Christmas music! There will be popcorn and cider available.

Loveland Community House Open House  -- All our rooms will be open to walk through, to reintroduce Loveland to the Dixon community. An open art tour of all the paintings featuring many well known local artists will be hosted by the Phidean Art Club. The Loveland is home base for Bob Burke's Christmas Decoration Displays!

Live Nativity by the First United Methodist Church -- Located on Hennepin Ave by Bill & Dick's Barbershop, come and see the live Nativity in celebration of Christmas

Cliff's Cider Donuts -- on First Street near the Dollar Store.

Rock River Valley Barbershoppers -- stopping at several business

Midland States Bank -- Free hot chocolate, cookies and more!

Petals to Parties -- Flute Ensemble at 6 p.m., give-aways, treats.

Next Picture Show -- Sauk Valley Bank will be co-sponsoring with KSB and Wal-Mart to have gingerbread men cookie decorating for the kids with lots of give-a-ways.

C&N Supply Cookie Ladies Bake Sale -- The traditional Cookie and Bake Sale will take place throughout the night!

Baker Street -- Free fudge and cookies while supplies last.

Basil Tree Ristorante -- Will have free samples of food throughout the night.

Waterfront Gifts -- Join us for refreshments ~ Register for Santa’s Bag of Goodies worth $75.00 (drawing will be held on December 14th).

Fifth Third Bank -- Jeremy the Amazer featuring his famous balloon animals. And Camp Reynoldswood will have refreshments.

Lee County Geneaological Society -- See the great Lionel Train racing on its tracks in the front window. Stop in for treats.  

Ginko Tree Cafe --serving teas, coffee, mulled cider, hot chocolate, gourmet pizza slices, ginger bread, and cookies or brownies.  Live music by Kathy Cecchetti as Mrs. Claus. We will have a drawing for free tea, lunch, classes and other goodies

Griffin Computer -- Stop in for treats and raffle.

Venier's Jewelry -- Refreshments. Get your 50/50 raffle tickets here.

Sherwin Williams -- Hot Wheels Races throughout the night. Watch the cars race the mega track!

Audio Video -- Treats, refreshments, and enter the drawing for a great prize.

J&J Household Furniture -- Give-aways and refreshments

Democratic Headquarters -- Chestnuts Roasting!

Trein's Jewelry -- Wine, Cider and Decorated Cookies.  


Monday, November 25, 2013

Trans Infinity Orchestra show at Historic Dixon Theatre is SOLD OUT!



Trans Infinity Orchestra show at Historic Dixon Theatre is SOLD OUT!

The Trans-Infinity Orchestra Show presented by Sauk Valley Bank set for Nov. 30 at the Historic Dixon Theatre is officially SOLD OUT.

"We knew this would be a popular show and we are delighted to be bringing a sold out event to the Dixon Theatre," Josh Albrecht, executive director of Dixon Main Street said.

Featuring a music ensemble that is second to none, an angelic choir of singers, and a light show that will wow the audience, the Trans Infinity Orchestra will present a special "Night of Trans Siberian Orchestra, a classic holiday rock experience".

"We were lucky to be able to book this very popular production for the city of Dixon," Albrecht said. "They are in high demand as a great family show for the Christmas season."

The event is presented by Sauk Valley Bank For more information on Trans Infinity Orchestra go online to www.anightoftso.com.

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

25th Anniversary Christmas Walk set for Dec. 6




{Lighted Holiday Parade, Great Snowball Drop to highlight the celebration

The 25th Annual Dixon Christmas Walk presented by Dixon Main Street, Dixon Chamber of Commerce, and Sauk Valley Bank has been set for Friday, Dec. 6 from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. with lots of great activities for the whole family being planned as downtown Dixon businesses stay open late with a host of activities.

The night will kick-off with the Tree Lighting Ceremony at KSB Hospital and feature the arrival of Santa Claus and songs by the Reagan Middle School choir.

"The countdown to the tree lighting is always a magical experience. The kids in the crowd are always amazed to see Santa Claus arrive on the fire truck," Albrecht said.

Since this is the 25th Anniversary, the Christmas Walk committee has decided to host a special Lighted Holiday Parade at 7 p.m. during the Christmas Walk. Business, organizations and individuals who would like to be a part of the parade can contact the Main Street office.

The popular Great Snowball Drop will be back again this year, but it will be moving to the west end of First Street as the Drop will take place in front of Dixon Paint Company's new location in the former Wermer's Building at near the corner of First and Peoria Avenue. Many great prizes are in store for snowball catchers from local businesses along with a few special "money snowballs" with cash prizes. And back is the top prize of a $500 Shopping Spree!

Other highlights include: The Loveland Community Houses Christmas Open House, cookie decorating at the Next Picture Show, Hot Wheels races at Sherwin-Williams, Santa at the Mini Mall, Jeremy the Amazer, blacksmith demonstration from John Deere Historic Site, The Rock River Valley Barbershop Choir, DHS Madrigals, and much more. A full listing and details and map will be available at the DMS website in mid November (www.dixonmainstreet.com)

Come back downtown on Saturday, Dec. 7 for Breakfast with Santa at the Lee County Senior Center and Post House Ballroom. There will be a pancake breakfast, pictures with Santa and much more. And the Dixon Municipal Band will hold their annual holiday concert that evening at 7 p.m. at the Historic Dixon Theatre.

For more information, call 815-288-2308 or mainst@grics.net.

Christmas Walk Timeline of Events

Friday, Dec. 6
6 p.m. – KSB Tree Lighting Ceremony as Santa arrives for the official start of the Christmas Walk.
6 p.m. – Shops are open and offering various treats and specials. Wagon rides begin.
7 p.m. –  Lighted Holiday Parade
8 p.m.. – The Great Snowball Drop
9 p.m. -- Christmas Walk 50/50 drawing

Saturday, Dec. 7
8 a.m. – Breakfast with Santa begins at the Post House
7 p.m. – Dixon Municipal Band concert at the Dixon Theatre

Friday, October 18, 2013

Trans Infinity Orchestra: A Night of TSO to play Historic Dixon Theatre, Nov. 30





} Infinity Presents: A Night of TSO, a classic holiday experience for the whole family -- Sponsored by Sauk Valley Bank

After the turkey and shopping are all done Thanksgiving weekend, families can unwind with the perfect kick-start to the Christmas season as Trans Infinity Orchestra will take the stage at the Historic Dixon Theatre at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 30.

Featuring a music ensemble that is second to none, an angelic choir of singers, and a light show that will wow the audience, the Trans Infinity Orchestra will present a special "Night of Trans Siberian Orchestra, a classic holiday rock experience".

"We really wanted to bring a show for the whole family to the Historic Dixon Theatre to help kick-off the holiday season in downtown Dixon," Josh Albrecht, executive director of Dixon Main Street, said. "And thanks to Sauk Valley Bank's support, we were able to bring the Trans Infinity Orchestra to Dixon to help punctuate Shop Small Saturday in downtown Dixon."

This unique concert experience is crafted with seasonal anecdotes and classic and modern holiday musical favorites. Trans Infinity Orchestra has played to sold out shows throughout the Chicagoland area the last few years.

"We were lucky to be able to book this very popular production for the city of Dixon," Albrecht said. "They are in high demand as a great family show for the Christmas season."

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Tickets area available at Trein's, Venier's, Sauk Valley Bank, and www.dixontheatre.com. Tickets are on sale starting Oct. 23.

For more information on Trans Infinity Orchestra go online to www.anightoftso.com.



Wednesday, October 9, 2013

6,000 plus attend Scarecrow Festival Weekend



Thank you for your support of the Scarecrow Festival weekend. The event was a wonderful success as we had a crowd of more than 5,000 at the Scarecrow Festival. Including the Here Come the Mummies concert and the Homecoming parade on Friday, total weekend attendance was well over 6,000 people! The event was bolstered by the cooperative efforts of the United Way of Lee County this year as their Campaign Kick-Off added to this wonderful community event, along with cooperative efforts with the Dixon Theatre and Dixon High School.

Event  Highlights and Fun Facts:
- Doggy Zoo featured 80 breeds of dogs and brought people from throughout northern Illinois to show off their dogs and participate in this featured event.
-600 pumpkins were painting in just 3 hours at the Pumpkin Painting booth.
- $400 was raised by the Sauk Valley Bank Dunk Tank and will be donated to the Dixon Public Library.
-United Way featured 20 of their agencies as part of their Kick-Off event on First Street.
- There were activities featured on every block of First Street from Ottawa Avenue to Highland Avenue. In addition to using the Old Courthouse Lawn and listing the Park Districts Farmer's Market.
- Local groups participating this year included the Palmyra Hillbillies 4-H, Lee County Master Gardeners, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Sauk Valley Community College Phi Theta Kappa honor society, Reynoldswood Christian Camp, Immanuel Lutheran Church, First Baptist Church, First Presbyterian Church, MOPS, Project GenNex, and several others.
-Roxie's, a new downtown retail store, held its grand opening as part of the festival with music by Gina Venier.
- Homecoming weekend was the same weekend this year and we partnered with DHS to have downtown windows decorated and to have the Homecoming Parade come through the downtown on Friday afternoon.
-The Here Come The Mummies concert at the Historic Dixon Theatre on Friday night of Scarecrow Festival weekend saw a sold out crowd of more than 900 guests, with many visiting the city for the weekend of activities. The Post House Ballroom feature 144 Dinner/Show guests at their facility.
- A huge thanks to our Scarecrow Festival sponsors: Hicks Insurance, Raynor, and Dixon Tourism. And another huge thanks to our Here Come the Mummies Sponsors: Supreme Cleaners, Lost Lake Radio, The Telegraph, Val's Place, KSB Hospital, and Lance Refrigeration.
- More than 100 volunteers gave time to help make these events happen.

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

Ultimate Tailgate Cook-off and Bags Tourney set for Oct. 20








}Dixon Main Street and United Way of Lee County team up for annual event

The Ultimate Tailgate Cook-off and Bags Tourney is set for Sunday, Oct. 20 from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m at the Beanblossom Parking Lot in Downtown Dixon.

This the 6th Annual cook-off event that features a Chili cook-off, along with a bags tournament.

"Once a year in the fall, the Beanblossom parking lot becomes a great tailgate festival with lots of chili and great food to eat," DMS Executive Director Josh Albrecht said. "Last year we had some fantastic food being cooked by local chefs."

The cook-off will be held in the Beanblossom parking lot of River Street from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.  Registration is just $20 and ends Oct. 18. Forms can be found online at www.dixonmainstreet.com or www.facebook.com/dixonmainstreet or by emailing mainst@grics.net. Cash prizes of $300 for First Place, $150 for Second Place and $50 for Third Place. Award for Best Showmanship and People's Choice will also be handed out.  There will be secret judges for the top prizes. Set-up for the event will begin at 8 a.m. as all cooks are required to prepare their entire chili at the event following Health Department guidelines.

Other great foods will be on hand as many of the contestants bring additional game-day treats.

The day also features the annual Bags Tourney, with registration for the tournament starting at 10:30 a.m. Cost is $20 per team and prizes will be awarded.

And, of course, a tailgate wouldn't be complete without football as we will have the big games on the outdoor television for everyone to enjoy.

Admission to the Chili Cook-off is $5 per person and admission includes tasting. The event is open to all ages. For more information on the Chili Cook-off, call Dixon Main Street at 815-288-2308.

The Beanblossom Parking Lot will be closed to cars starting at 6 a.m. Sunday morning to accommodate the Chili Cook-off. The cook-off is sponsored by The Stables, Drifters, Alley Loop, Royal Palms, and Zero's.

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Scarecrow Festival Map

The 17th Annual Scarecrow Festival is set for Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. in downtown Dixon. With so many activities throughout the downtown that day, here is a map to help you find your way to some of the bigger activities that day. All of the events and activities are not included on this map, and remember all of our great downtown shops will be open with great fall specials. Check out our great retail shops and restaurants!

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Scarecrow Festival, September 28




17th Annual Scarecrow Festival set for Sept. 28
in downtown Dixon
} Annual event to feature Doggy Zoo, The Great Pumpkin Patch and more

The 17th Annual Scarecrow Festival Presented by Hicks Insurance will be in downtown Dixon on Saturday, Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. This year, the event will feature many of the fan favorites like: Pumpkin Painting, The Great Pumpkin Patch, Craft and Food Vendors, kids games, Doggy Zoo, Pie-in-the-Face Throw, and much more.

The festival entertainment stage will feature three great shows throughout the day to entertain the crowds. At 10 a.m., Jeremy The Amazer will perform his magic show, at 11 a.m. bluegrass band Truman's Ridge will perform, and at 1 p.m. the Hoo Haven Wildlife Refuge animal showcase will take place. The festival stage will be set up at the corner of First and Hennepin Avenue in the heart of the downtown.

"The Scarecrow Festival is definitely one of the great fall traditions in downtown Dixon," said Josh Albrecht, executive director of Dixon Main Street. "It is a great day for families to come and explore the downtown."

The festival is a favorite for families and kids with a wide selection of activities for children. Nearly 5,000 people are expected to attend this year's event.

The Doggy Zoo continues to grow in popularity, as well. With more than 80 different dog breeds on display, kids can learn about what makes each dog unique while they talk with the dog's owner. The Doggy Zoo takes place on the Old Lee County Courthouse Lawn from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

The Great Pumpkin Patch will be set up at the parking lot on the corner of First and Peoria Avenue, where families get to hunt for their gourd in a maze of pumpkins.

Again this year, the Lee County United Way Campaign Kick-off will take place during the festival. The United Way volunteers are planning many great family activities throughout the day. And Habitat for Humanity will host their garage sale fundraiser, and the 4-H clubs will host their annual bake sale.

"Every year we continue to grow with new events during the festival," Albrecht said. "And we are excited that the traditional events stay with us year after year."

For more information on the Scarecrow Festival, go online to www.dixonmainstreet.com or www.facebook.com/dixonmainstreet

*****************************************************

A listing of some events at Scarecrow Festival

PUMPKIN PAINTING

Located at the corner of First and Peoria Ave. Sponsored by Dixon Paint Company.

PIE IN THE FACE

Sponsored by Immanuel Lutheran Church corner of Hennepin & First Street.

DOGGY ZOO

Located at the Lee County Courthouse lawn. Over 80 breeds of dogs will be on display with their owners to answer questions. 10 - 1 p.m.


Habitat For Humanity Garage Sale
Located at the Kenzley Title parking lot at the corner of Commercial Alley and Hennepin Ave.

FLOWER POT PAINTING

Sponsored by Lee County Master Gardeners.
Located in front of Town Square Center on First Street.

JEREMY ‘THE AMAZER’ HAAK – 10 AM–3 PM

Performance at 10 a.m. at the corner of First & Hennepin.

PALMYRA HILLBILLIES 4H BOOTH

Located on First Street between Hennepin & Galena Avenues on the south side of the street, the 4H will feature crafts and a bake sale.

FARMERS MARKET - 8 a.m. - noon

Dixon Park District's weekly Farmer's Market. Come check out fresh foods, crafts, and more at Haymarket Square.

RETAIL AND DINING SPECIALS

Come and Visit the variety of retail and dining options in downtown Dixon during Scarecrow Festival. Try some great food, find some great shopping bargains and enjoy our wonderful downtown

Hunter's Hope 3K Walk

Hunter's Hope Every Step, the Walk for Expanded & Universal Newborn Screening
Every Child.  Every Time.  Everywhere.
3K walk on the Riverfront, 9am registration/10a.m. Start  $10 fee
Register online www.everystepwalk.org.
More info lisamc4674@hotmail.com

 

MOPS BOOTH

The local MOPS group will be holding a food booth featuring apples and other treats.

The GREAT DOWNTOWN PUMPKIN PATCH

The Great Downtown Pumpkin Patch featuring a field of pumpkins. Come and pick out your favorite pumpkin or try your luck at the Pumpkin Raffle. Enjoy homemade soaps, gourds, and other fall decorations! Corner of First and Peoria Ave.



VENDOR BOOTHS

A variety of craft vendors will be on display including Mary Kay, Thirty-One and more!

 

United Way Kick-Off Party

The United Way is hosting their campaign launch party during the festival. Corner of First and Galena Avenue.

Christmas Walk 50/50 Tickets

Dixon Main Street will be selling our 50/50 Christmas Walk Raffle Tickets during Scarecrow Festival. Drawing will be held at the Christmas Walk on Friday, Dec. 6.

Reagan Trail Days Post-Event Hightlights and Thank Yous!



The annual Reagan Trail Days saw another very successful week of events this year. Running from August 6-11, the events highlighted several famous "Reagan" sites throughout our town and showcased our beautiful Downtown and Riverfront. Thank you for your support of this great Dixon tradition. And a huge thanks to our Presenting Sponsor Midland States Bank. Additional sponsorship came from Dixon Tourism, Culver's, Mama Cimino's, and Venier Jewelers. Partnership sponsors included: Dixon Park District, Dixon Public Library, Dixon Municipal Band, Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home, Dixon Riverfront, Second Saturdays, and Sterling Federal Bank.

Highlights from 2013 include:

August 6 -- The Cowboy Randy Erwin Show brought more than 150 people to an evening show in the Riverfront Amphitheatre.

August 7 -- Ice Cream Social on the Riverfront brought 300 people to the downtown for ice cream and live music.

August 8 -- The picnic in Lowell park saw 236 people take a pontoon boat ride and 300 hot dog meals served.

August 9 -- The annual Gala at the Reagan Home had more than 100 people turn out for the awards program. The evening included free tours of the Reagan Boyhood Home.

August 10 -- The first-ever Beanblossom Music Festival brought just shy of 1,000 people downtown for a great night of music and food. Second Saturdays held their monthly events, too.

August 11 -- Annual RTD Municipal Band concert had one of the biggest crowds of the year for the Municipal Band with nearly 200 concert-goers enjoying the sounds in Page Park.

In total, our events drew over 2,000 people for the week. We also had 142 volunteers donate 244 volunteer hours.

Thank you for your support!!

Friday, August 2, 2013

Reagan Trail Days Updated Schedule for August 6-11

Tuesday, August 6 – Cowboy Randy Show on the Riverfront
Come enjoy an evening on the downtown Riverfront with the Cowboy Randy Show featuring trick roping, yodeling, cowboy stories and much more. Cowboy Randy has done voice work for Disney's Home on the Range, performances at The Library of Congress, Carnegie Hall , Queen Elizabeth Hall, The New Orleans Jazz Festival, The Seattle International Children's Festival, The Ravinia Festival, as The Artist in Residence at Grand Canyon, and at night clubs and folk festivals all over Great Britain, Canada, and the United States.   A great family-friendly event to kick-off Reagan Trail Days week! Show starts at 7 p.m. Free admission. Sponsored by the Dixon Public Library.

Wednesday, August 7 – Ice Cream Social on the Riverfront
Ice Cream Social on the Riverfront in Downtown Dixon from 6-8 p.m. featuring FREE Culver's custard and live music by Lowell Harp and Friends.

Thursday, August 8 – Community Picnic at Lowell Park
Community Picnic at Lowell Park, 5 p.m. - 8 p.m..  A perfect setting for an old-fashioned community picnic at Lowell Park, where Reagan once saved 77 lives as a lifeguard. Come enjoy FREE pontoon boat rides, and music by Wade Buzzard.  Enjoy a Community Cookout with Mama Ciminos cooking out. Dinner donation is just $3 for adults and kids 18 and under eat FREE!

Friday, August 9 –
Musical Fridays on the Riverfront @ Noon. Free concert sponsored by Community State Bank.

GALA in the PARK -- Friday, August 9 –  6 p.m. - 10 p.m. -- The Annual Ronald Reagan Gala in the Park at the Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home. This year, the annual wine tasting reception and the Gala are joined for one big event at the Boyhood Home. Featuring music by Chameleon and Jimmy Jack Whitaker, elegant food by Basil Tree, and wine tastings by the Crystal Cork. Come sample the Dixon Welcome Center's Petunia Wine! The evening will feature the annual awards ceremony as we honor State Senator Tim Bivins, Courtney Fassler, and Peter Nichols.  The wonderful evening, celebrates Ronald Reagan and Dixonites that have gone on to do great things just as Ronald Reagan did, and is emceed by Tom Wadsworth. A can’t-miss event! Tickets are $35 per person and includes a commemorative wine glass and two wine tasting tickets. Tickets available at the Boyhood Home Visitor's Center or online at www.reaganhome.com.


Saturday, August 10 –
The Alzheimer's Association annual Duck Races on the Rock River -- 10 a.m. -- Come down to the Riverfront and watch hundreds of rubber duckies race along the Rock River. Join the fundraising effort by sponsoring a duck for just $5. Tickets are available at the Alzheimer's Association office at 93 S. Hennepin Ave. or call 285-1100.

Beanblossom Music Festival -- Downtown Dixon will play host to a new music and food festival on Saturday, August 10 at the Beanblossom Music Festival in downtown Dixon. Featuring JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound, Gina Venier & the Gentlemen, and many more great musicians, this all-ages music festival will run from 5 p.m. - 1 a.m. at the Beanblossom Parking Lot in the heart of downtown Dixon. Along with the great music, the event will feature fantastic food by local restaurants Orom and Mama Ciminos. JC Brooks and the Uptown sound are currently touring to support their latest album Howl. Fresh off a performance at Milwaukee's Summerfest, the band continues to tour throughout the Midwest.  Gina Venier & the Gentlemen rocked the Riverfront Stage during Dixon's annual Petunia Festival on July 5. With a crowd of 3,000 people, Gina showed her hometown crowd what she has been up to while playing gigs throughout the Chicagoland area. Nate Gordon will open the festival with his acoustic blues/rock sound. Gordon has been playing locally at Rosbrook Studio, Books on First, and Musical Fridays. He has also been touring throughout Illinois and Iowa this summer. Advance tickets are just $5 at Venier's Jewelry in downtown Dixon, by calling 815-288-2308. For more information, call 815-288-2308 or online at www.dixonmainstreet.com


Second Saturdays Art Happenings -- 6-8 p.m. -- at various locations throughout the downtown. Maps will be available at the event or online at www.secondsaturdays.com

Sunday, August 11 --
RTD Dixon Municipal Band Concert -- 2 p.m. at the Page Park Band Shell. This year's program will feature "Music for Presidents", highlighted by "George Washington BiCentennial March"-John Philip Sousa, "Elegy for a Young American"-Ronald Lo Presti (in honor of JFK), "Lincoln Portrait"-Aaron Copland (Paul Katner-narrator), "Selections from Porgy and Bess"-George and Ira Gershwin (Dwight Eisenhower's favorite operetta), "Heartbreak Hotel"-Elvis Presley (Bill Clinton's favorite song to play tenor sax too), and "Reagan of Illinois Part 1"-David Holsinger (Paul Katner-narrator).


Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Mummies Ticket Update

Tickets go on sale Thursday, August 1 at Noon and are $20. Tickets are general admission and are available at www.dixontheatre.com, or at Trein's Jewelry and Venier Jewelers in Downtown Dixon. To order by phone or for more information, call Dixon Main Street at 815-288-2308.

A small number of reserved seats will be made available through a Dinner & Show Package at the Post House Ballroom. A $35 ticket gets you a pre-show dinner at the Ballroom and a reserved floor seat to the show. All Dinner & Show tickets must be purchased by calling the Ballroom at 815-288-0892.

It will be a concert that is more than 4,000 years in the making as Here Come the Mummies invade the Historic Dixon Theatre at 8 p.m. on Friday, September 27.

Supreme Cleaners presents this fantastic concert for the city of Dixon!

Monday, July 29, 2013

Scarecrow Festival Vendor Application

Scarecrow Festival vendor fees are $25. Deadline is August 21 to sign up. Scarecrow Festival will be held on Saturday, September 28 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. in Downtown Dixon. Email mainst@grics.net with questions.

Here Come the Mummies set for Sept. 27 at Historic Dixon Theatre





It will be a concert that is more than 4,000 years in the making as Here Come the Mummies invade the Historic Dixon Theatre at 8 p.m. on Friday, September 27. The concert is presented by Supreme Cleaners and Dixon Main Street.

The Nashville-based funk/R&B band has been touring since 2002, in full mummy attire, to the delight of concert-goers throughout the country. They have been featured on the Bob & Tom Show, in Hollywood productions, and, of course, headlining festivals and fairs all across the Midwest and beyond.

"We can't wait," Josh Albrecht, executive director of Dixon Main Street said. "This will definitely be a night to remember at the Historic Dixon Theatre. The Mummies are a party band and Dixon knows how to have a good time."

The true identities of the band are literally shrouded in secret, but if rumors are true, the band is made up of numerous Grammy Award-winning musicians. The mummified get-up is believed to be used to hide any contract disputes with their music labels.

 The line-up includes: Mummy Cass (guitar, lead vocals), Java Mummy (percussion, vocals), Eddie Mummy (drums, vocals), Mummy Spaz (keyboards), K.W. Tut (bass, vocals), Mummy Rah (tenor sax), The Flu (baritone sax), Teste Verde (trumpet), Ramses Mummy (bass), Bucking Blanco (trumpet), Midnight Mummy (baritone sax), The Pole (bass) and B.B. Queen (trumpet).

The high-energy show is a two-hour performance that will bring the audience to their feet for a night of dancing and good vibes.

Tickets go on sale Wednesday, August 1 at Noon and are $20. Tickets are general admission and are available at www.dixontheatre.com, or at Trein's Jewelry and Venier Jewelers in Downtown Dixon. To order by phone or for more information, call Dixon Main Street at 815-288-2308.

A small number of reserved seats will be made available through a Dinner & Show Package at the Post House Ballroom. A $35 ticket gets you a pre-show dinner at the Ballroom and a reserved floor seat to the show. All Dinner & Show tickets must be purchased by calling the Ballroom at 815-288-0892.

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Reagan Trail Days 2013 Presented by Midland States Bank



Reagan Trail Days 2013 Presented by Midland States Bank
Schedule of Events
The annual Reagan Trail Days presented by Midland States Bank features a full week's worth of activities throughout Dixon as we celebrate our hometown president.

SPONSORS:
Presenting Sponsor -- Midland States Bank
Dixon Tourism
KSB Hospital
Century Link
City of Dixon
Culver's
Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home
Dixon Park District
Dixon Public Library
Dixon Riverfront
Griffin Computer & Repair

Tuesday, August 6 – Cowboy Randy Show on the Riverfront
Come enjoy an evening on the downtown Riverfront with the Cowboy Randy Show featuring trick roping, yodeling, cowboy stories and much more. Cowboy Randy has done voice work for Disney's Home on the Range, performances at The Library of Congress, Carnegie Hall , Queen Elizabeth Hall, The New Orleans Jazz Festival, The Seattle International Children's Festival, The Ravinia Festival, as The Artist in Residence at Grand Canyon, and at night clubs and folk festivals all over Great Britain, Canada, and the United States.   A great family-friendly event to kick-off Reagan Trail Days week! Show starts at 7 p.m. Free admission. Sponsored by the Dixon Public Library.

Wednesday, August 7 – Ice Cream Social on the Riverfront
Ice Cream Social on the Riverfront in Downtown Dixon from 6-8 p.m. featuring FREE Culver's custard and live music by Lowell Harp and Friends.

Thursday, August 8 – Community Picnic at Lowell Park
Community Picnic at Lowell Park, 5 p.m. - 8 p.m..  A perfect setting for an old-fashioned community picnic at Lowell Park, where Reagan once saved 77 lives as a lifeguard. Come enjoy FREE pontoon boat rides, and music by Wade Buzzard.  Enjoy a Community Cookout with Mama Ciminos cooking out. Dinner donation is just $3 for adults and kids 18 and under eat FREE!

Friday, August 9 –
Musical Fridays on the Riverfront @ Noon. Free concert sponsored by Community State Bank.

GALA in the PARK -- Friday, August 9 –  6 p.m. - 10 p.m. -- The Annual Ronald Reagan Gala in the Park at the Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home. This year, the annual wine tasting reception and the Gala are joined for one big event at the Boyhood Home. Featuring music by Chameleon and Jimmy Jack Whitaker, elegant food by Basil Tree, and wine tastings by the Crystal Cork. Come sample the Dixon Welcome Center's Petunia Wine! The evening will feature the annual awards ceremony as we honor State Senator Tim Bivins, Courtney Fassler, and Peter Nichols.  The wonderful evening, celebrates Ronald Reagan and Dixonites that have gone on to do great things just as Ronald Reagan did, and is emceed by Tom Wadsworth. A can’t-miss event! Tickets are $35 per person and includes a commemorative wine glass and two wine tasting tickets. Tickets available at the Boyhood Home Visitor's Center or online at www.reaganhome.com.


Saturday, August 10 –
The Alzheimer's Association annual Duck Races on the Rock River -- 10 a.m. -- Come down to the Riverfront and watch hundreds of rubber duckies race along the Rock River. Join the fundraising effort by sponsoring a duck for just $5. Tickets are available at the Alzheimer's Association office at 93 S. Hennepin Ave. or call 285-1100.

Beanblossom Music Festival -- Downtown Dixon will play host to a new music and food festival on Saturday, August 10 at the Beanblossom Music Festival in downtown Dixon. Featuring JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound, Gina Venier & the Gentlemen, and many more great musicians, this all-ages music festival will run from 5 p.m. - 1 a.m. at the Beanblossom Parking Lot in the heart of downtown Dixon. Along with the great music, the event will feature fantastic food by local restaurants Orom and Mama Ciminos. JC Brooks and the Uptown sound are currently touring to support their latest album Howl. Fresh off a performance at Milwaukee's Summerfest, the band continues to tour throughout the Midwest.  Gina Venier & the Gentlemen rocked the Riverfront Stage during Dixon's annual Petunia Festival on July 5. With a crowd of 3,000 people, Gina showed her hometown crowd what she has been up to while playing gigs throughout the Chicagoland area. Nate Gordon will open the festival with his acoustic blues/rock sound. Gordon has been playing locally at Rosbrook Studio, Books on First, and Musical Fridays. He has also been touring throughout Illinois and Iowa this summer. Advance tickets are just $5 at Venier's Jewelry in downtown Dixon, by calling 815-288-2308. For more information, call 815-288-2308 or online at www.dixonmainstreet.com


Second Saturdays Art Happenings -- 6-8 p.m. -- at various locations throughout the downtown. Maps will be available at the event or online at www.secondsaturdays.com

Sunday, August 11 --
RTD Dixon Municipal Band Concert -- 2 p.m. at the Page Park Band Shell. This year's program will feature "Music for Presidents", highlighted by "George Washington BiCentennial March"-John Philip Sousa, "Elegy for a Young American"-Ronald Lo Presti (in honor of JFK), "Lincoln Portrait"-Aaron Copland (Paul Katner-narrator), "Selections from Porgy and Bess"-George and Ira Gershwin (Dwight Eisenhower's favorite operetta), "Heartbreak Hotel"-Elvis Presley (Bill Clinton's favorite song to play tenor sax too), and "Reagan of Illinois Part 1"-David Holsinger (Paul Katner-narrator).




Thursday, July 11, 2013

Beanblossom Music Fest -- Saturday, August 10 -- JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound, Gina Venier & the Gentlemen, and Nate Gordon






Dixon Main Street Presents 
JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound, 
Saturday, August 10 in Downtown Dixon

One day music festival to feature JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound,
Gina Venier & the Gentlemen, Nate Gordon and much more

Downtown Dixon will play host to a new music and food festival on Saturday, August 10 at the Beanblossom Music Festival in downtown Dixon. Featuring JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound, Gina Venier & the Gentlemen, and many more great musicians, this one-day festival will run from 5 p.m. - 1 a.m. at the Beanblossom Parking Lot in the heart of downtown Dixon.

Josh Albrecht, executive director of Dixon Main Street, said the concert will be a great evening of music and food.

"This Beanblossom Festival has a fantastic line-up of musicians and we are excited to bring another great addition to the downtown Dixon calendar of events," Albrecht said.

Along with the great music, the event will feature fantastic food by local restaurants Orom and Mama Ciminos.

"We wanted a unique and original experience for the downtown," Albrecht said. "Utilizing the Beanblossom parking area is a great way to showcase the five bars that surround the area."

JC Brooks and the Uptown sound are currently touring to support their latest album Howl. Fresh off a performance at Milwaukee's Summerfest, the band continues to tour throughout the Midwest.

Gina Venier & the Gentlemen rocked the Riverfront Stage during Dixon's annual Petunia Festival on July 5. With a crowd of 3,000 people, Gina showed her hometown crowd what she has been up to while playing gigs throughout the Chicagoland area.

Nate Gordon will open the festival with his acoustic blues/rock sound. Gordon has been playing locally at Rosbrook Studio, Books on First, and Musical Fridays. He has also been touring throughout Illinois and Iowa this summer.

Advance tickets are just $5 at Venier's Jewelry in downtown Dixon, by calling 815-288-2308. For more information, call 815-288-2308 or online at www.dixonmainstreet.com

"For just $5, people will get to see some really fantastic music by JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound. They are an up and coming band that recently released a new album," Albrecht said.

Thursday, June 13, 2013

Main Street Updates and Tidbits




PETUNIA FESTIVAL
The annual Petunia Festival is just around the corner and we are very excited to see more of the activity moving downtown along the Riverfront. Get all the information for the week at www.petuniafestival.org.

Note that a new event called Brush, Bloom and Boom is set for this year on July 4. The event will allow budding artists to take to First Street and decorate 4 foot by 4 foot squares. Cost is $10 an includes your painting supplies. Winners will be named and prizes will be awarded. Get the details at www.petuniafestival.org/brushbloomboom.

And don't forget about the annual Reagan Run 5K. This great annual run/walk event attracts nearly 1,500 participants and has become one of the great showcasing during the Petunia Festival and for the City. Go to www.reaganrun.com for details.

And finally ... we still need your help!!! Volunteers are what make the festival work, so let us know if you are interested in helping. Just email mainst@grics.net.

And don't forget your Harley Raffle Ticket! We have them at the Main Street office! Just $20 each for a chance at a Harley or $10,000!

MIDSUMMERS DRAWDOWN ON THE RIVERFRONT
Dixon Main Street in partnership with the Dixon Riverfront Commission is pleased to present the midsummer’s drawdown. Dinner by Mama Ciminos, drinks by Crystal Cork, music by Acoustic Circus. Each $50 drawdown ticket includes 2 dinners & only 300 drawdown tickets will be sold. There will be 50 winning tickets, $6,000 in winnings, 1 in 6 tickets a WINNER   $20.00 General entry this includes 1 dinner. Proceeds support Dixon Main Street and Dixon Riverfront Contact: Josh Albrecht at 815-288-2308 or Kay Miller at 815-973-0931

MUSICAL FRIDAYS presented by Community State Bank
Join us each Friday throughout the summer from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m. on the Riverfront for great music and lots of fun. A great way to spend your lunch!

DOWNTOWN BANNERS ARE UP!
Our Streetlight Banners are up along Galena and Hennepin Ave. Thanks to all of our sponsors who helped to make them happen!

SHOP TALK
There will be no Shop Talk in July. The next one is scheduled for August 6 at 5 p.m. at Books on First.

REAGAN TRAIL DAYS presented by Midland States Bank
Reagan Trail Days will be August 6-11. We have a few changes planned for this year's festival. More details to come soon!


Tuesday, May 21, 2013

DMS Annual Report -- May 2013



The Dixon Main Street Mission:
Since 1996, the Dixon Main Street has been an active, strong and exciting organization focused on the betterment of downtown Dixon and the city as a whole. We are an organization built and sustained by countless volunteers who are passionate about the services and events that Main Street provides. Our mission statement is simple: To foster a spirit of community teamwork and to strengthen, revitalize, and broaden the economic base of the community area, while improving the appearance of the downtown area, and promoting and marketing Dixon as a vibrant place to visit, work, shop, play, and live.

The Dixon Main Street Vision:
Dixon Main Street has a vision for the 21st century to enhance downtown Dixon’s rich history while continuing to develop our diverse dining, cultural, and shopping opportunities. Anchored by our premier riverfront, downtown Dixon offers a family friendly destination that is unique and inviting for visitors and residents alike. Dixon is a hip and modern downtown that keeps its roots in the historic fabric that has made our city great since 1830. All of this makes Dixon a wonderful destination and a fantastic place to call home

2013 Board of Directors
Scott Brown, Wendler Engineering (President)
Kevin Marx, KSB Hospital (Immediate Past President)
John Jones, Kitzmans Lumber (Vice President)
Donna-Louise Jasper, Blackhawk Insurance (Secretary)
Laura Bock, Sauk Valley Properties (Treasurer)
Mike Venier, Venier Jewelers
Becky Reilly, Sauk Valley Newspapers
Ryan Marshall, The Stables
Bill Mick, Raynor

Executive Director
Josh Albrecht

Looking Forward in 2013
As we move forward into 2013, Dixon Main Street will continue to create amazing festivals and events for the city of Dixon, along with our numerous behind-the-scenes programs for our businesses and merchants.
A few of our  goals for this year will be:
1) to continue the One Dixon Concept as we embark on moving into the Fifth Third Bank building with other non-profit groups in our community to create an alliance of organizations to strengthen the city.
2) to strengthen our partnership with the Petunia Festival and aid in the festivals transition into the downtown festival setting while also helping them plan for the special 50th Anniversary in 2014.
3) to create a new concert event in August to enhance Reagan Trail Days and to continue to make Dixon a hotbed for live music in the region.
4) to build up the Christmas Walk for the 25th Anniversary of that event.
5) to create and support more promotional opportunities for our merchants throughout the community.

2012 Highlights
MUMFORD & SONS GOTR Festival A 2-day festival that had more than 20,000 people between the Page Park festival grounds and downtown festivities. Estimated at bringing $4.5 million of spending to the city.
Musical Fridays Concert Series Free summer
concerts on the Riverfront from June—September. Added additional weeks.
Scarecrow Festival Nearly 5,000 people strolled through the downtown to enjoy games and family activities including pumpkin painting, doggy zoo, Monster Truck rides, Pumpkin Patch, games, activities and more.
24th Annual Christmas Walk A great tradition for the whole family in the downtown with more than 5,000 people in attendance and the popular Great Snowball Drop along with the Tree Lighting Ceremony and much more.
Reagan Trail Days Featured an ice cream social, community picnic, downtown festival, historic trolley rides, wine tasting, and the Dixon Municipal Band Concert.
And we also do ….
Founder’s Day Celebration, Fourth Grade History and Architecture Program, Lunch and Learn, Shop Talk  Merchants Meetings,  Monster Pancakes, Downtown Clean-up, Ultimate Tailgate, Community-Wide Garage Sales. Provided free office space for the Dixon Riverfront Commission.  Provided opportunities for community organizations to raise funds at special events. Worked to get the downtown on the National Register of Historic Places. Partnered with the Petunia Festival, Yaddy Memorial Event, Second Saturdays, Sauk Valley Shop Small, Historic Dixon Theatre, Dixon Historic Center, Reagan Boyhood Home, RR5K, Inc., Dixon Park District, YMCA, Dixon Municipal Band, Dixon Chamber of Commerce, LCCOA, Noon Lions, and many more


Dixon Main Street Dollars and Cents
Dixon Main Street is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. Our efforts are designed to enhance the city of Dixon through downtown revitalization, historic preservation and promotional events. We make every effort to put the money that we receive in donations and support back into the city that we serve. We operate on a budget of just over $100,000 each year.

Where our funds go ...
- Downtown improvements such as our banner project and Christmas decorations.
- Local Musicians and artists-- a wide variety of local musicians perform at our festivals and Musical Fridays, including Acoustic Circus, Robbie LeBlanc, Jeff Kagay, The Cool Kids and more.
- Partnerships with Restaurants and Bars  -- We often need food and drink for our events and many restaurants and bars benefit from these opportunities.
- Special Event Venues -- our events and programs are held throughout the community at various locations, including the Post House Ballroom, Historic Dixon Theatre, Loveland Community House, Timber Creek and many more.
- Partnerships with organizations -- with so many events, we often need help and will make donations to organizations that lend a hand.
- Event costs -- Every event has money spent through advertising and other promotional material, supplies and resources and other event needs.
- Administrative -- We have a full-time executive director, a downtown building to maintain and pay taxes on, utility costs, and general operating expenses.

Where our funds come from ...
Fundraising events -- Events like our golf outing, annual gala, theatre events, Ulitmate Tailgate and much more.
Annual Fundraising Campaign -- The annual fundraising campaign accounts for about 10 percent of our budget each year.
Fundraisers -- Streetlight Banner Program, DMS garage sale, Christmas Walk Raffle and other small fundraisers.
- Donations and Grants -- We apply for grants from various organizations and businesses. We also receive donations from individuals and businesses in the community. And we received donations from Petunia Festival, RR5K, Dixon Wine and Beer Festival and the Yaddy Memorial Tournament for helping with those events.
- The City of Dixon -- The City of Dixon generously grants DMS funds each year; for FY2012-2013, the city will have granted DMS $14,000. This is about 14 percent of the total Dixon Main Street Budget.

What you may not know about our funds ...
- The city of Dixon grants DMS money each year; however, we do not see any funding from the state or federal government.
- Many of our promotional events are designed as free events for the community and do not create revenue for DMS; events such as Scarecrow Festival, Christmas Walk, Musical Fridays and the 4th Grade Tours are funded by sponsors and DMS. When full sponsorships are not attained, DMS uses its general funds to make sure these community events continue.
-  While we are a non-profit organization, we are still subject to taxes like other businesses. Each year, we pay payroll taxes and property taxes as part of being a business.

The Value of Main Street
In 2008, an assistant professor at the University of Texas at Arlington School of Architecture published the book, Economic Value of Urban Design, which analyzed the impact of community Main Street programs. Some of his findings include:
  • Higher percentages of job increases in active Main Street cities.
  • The most significant changes in increased property values, retail sales volume and ground-floor rental rates occurred in small city programs.
  • More entrepreneurship in active Main Street cities than in former and non-Main Street cities.
  • Higher (and in some cases, 'considerably higher') taxable retail sales occurred in Main Street cities
  • Both financial and non-financial benefits accrued from participating in the Main Street effort
  • “The Main Street Four-Point Approach [is] the most successful of all 16 downtown development strategies studied." 
The Four Point Committee Approach
The following committees meet on a monthly basis to complete annual work plans, which are created to guide activities and provide a yardstick for success of the organization. 
Organization – This committee is charged with building consensus and cooperation among the many groups and individuals who have a role in the revitalization process. They work to market Main Street and its goals to the community and recruit new volunteers and members.
Promotion – Marketing downtown’s assets to customers, potential investors, new businesses, local citizens and visitors is the main role of this committee.  This group also works to market the downtown as a “fun” and exciting place to visit and shop through annual events and retail promotions.
Design – This group works toward enhancing the physical appearance of downtown by capitalizing on its assets and heritage. Rehabilitating historic buildings, encouraging sensitive new construction, developing design management systems, and long term planning fall under Design.
Economic Restructuring – This committee works toward strengthening downtown’s economic base while finding ways to expand it to meet new opportunities for development.  The group looks at ways to improve retail mix, build a stronger tax base, and create a stable role for the downtown as a major component of the community’s economic health. 
The Main Street Philosophy
Comprehensive – An ongoing series of initiatives is vital to build community support and create lasting progress.
Incremental – Small projects make a big difference; they demonstrate that “things are happening” and hone the skills and confidence necessary to tackle more complex problems.
Self-Help – Only local leadership can initiate long-term success by fostering and demonstrating community involvement and commitment to the revitalization effort.
Public/private partnership – Main Street requires the support and expertise of both the public (local government) and private (businesses and residents) sectors.  For an effective partnership, each must recognize the strengths and weaknesses of the other.
Identifying and capitalizing on existing assets – Local assets provide the solid foundation for a successful Main Street initiative.
Quality – From storefront design to promotional campaigns to special events, quality must be the main goal.
Change – Changing community attitudes and habits is essential to bring about revitalization.  A carefully planned Main Street program will help shift public perceptions and practices to support and sustain the revitalization process.
Action-oriented – Frequent, visible changes in the look and activities of the commercial district will reinforce the perception of positive change.  Small, but dramatic improvement will remind the community that the revitalization effort is underway.