Life in the Stateline may slowly be getting back to normal after the COVID-19 pandemic, but at this point I think we just need to resolve ourselves to the fact that large gatherings and events returning is a LONG time off.

This may be bummer news that makes our summer a lot more boring, but just keep in mind all of these tough decisions are being made with public safety in mind.

On Thursday Summerfest in Milwaukee announced they are cancelling this year's festival for the first time ever after previously announcing it was being postponed until September. Then right after that announcement, we got hit with another blow ..the Stephenson County Fair won't be happening this year either.

Board members posted a statement on Stephenson County Fair's Facebook Thursday saying;

It is with great sadness that the Stephenson County Fair Association announces the cancellation of the 2020 Stephenson County Fair.
The Stephenson County Fair Association Board of Directors assessed the risk to our exhibitors and their families, volunteers, superintendents, judges, vendors and the public and determined that it is in the best interest of our community to cancel the fair for July 21-25, 2020.
This decision was extremely difficult for the board, but with vendors and part of the tractor pull cancelling, the possibility of not having a full carnival and ultimately the health and safety of our community and attendees are of the utmost importance. We thank everyone for their support and look forward to seeing you at the 2021 Stephenson County Fair.

I know this news is extremely disappointing to so many people in the Stateline, but I want you to remember one more thing before you start ranting. Although public safety is the upmost priority, all of these festivals and events are also at the mercy of the vendors, acts and entertainment that are scheduled to be there. As the Stephenson County Fair pointed out above, when vendors and acts cancel on their own accord, it makes it dang near impossible to pull off the kind of fair we are accustomed to. Please be kind. Be patient, and just remember this means the fairs in the 2021 will be even more exciting and worth the wait, (fingers crossed).

Catch Lil Zim on ‘Q98.5 Mornings with Lil Zim & JB’ on Q98.5 from 6:00 a.m. to 10 a.m. Follow her on TwitterInstagram, and Facebook

KEEP READING: 5 Children's Books to Kickstart a Conversation About Race

More From 96.7 The Eagle