The winning design for this year’s Young at Heart festival button was created by Harlem High School senior Nichole Speer.  A media event was held yesterday (Tuesday, April 23) in the main lobby of Harlem High School to announce the winner.

Diana Johnson, Executive Director of the Parks Chamber and the sponsoring organization of Young at Heart, presented Speer with a $100 prize for her efforts. Also on hand was Loves Park Mayor Darryl Lindberg and Machesney Park Village Clerk, Lori Mitchell, representing Mayor Linda Vaughn.

“The quality of work from the high school students is great, and it was difficult to choose a winner but we are very pleased with this year’s design and congratulate Nichole on this accomplishment,” said Johnson.

Young at Heart will be held Friday, May 23, through Monday, May 26, on the grounds of the Parks Chamber of Commerce (100 Heart Blvd., Loves Park, Ill.). The buttons will be produced and on sale at outlets all over the region. Buttons are good for all four days of the festival and cost $6 in advance or $8 at the gate. Children 8 and under are FREE.

About Young at Heart
This family-friendly event, currently in its 37th year, features carnival rides, a fishing derby, the Young at heart pageant, a fireworks spectacular, a wide variety of food and crowd-pleasing music. The Young at Heart Parade will take place Saturday, May 24. This year, headlining bands Cowboy Crush, and Blooze Brothers will provide entertainment. For more information, visit www.youngatheartfestival.com or call the Parks Chamber at 815. 633.3999.