Local distillery, bakery receive state recognition

Posted 11/10/20

The Illinois Office of Tourism has announced 31 new small businesses, or ‘makers,’ have been recognized by the Illinois Made program — one from Rochelle and one from Oregon making the list.

This item is available in full to subscribers.

Please log in to continue

Log in

Local distillery, bakery receive state recognition

Posted

ROCHELLE — The Illinois Office of Tourism has announced 31 new small businesses, or ‘makers,’ have been recognized by the Illinois Made program — one from Rochelle and one from Oregon making the list.
Illinois Made inspires locals and visitors to discover hidden gems offering unique products, stories and experiences all around the state. From locally sourced honey producers, to a tattoo art gallery, candlemakers, and jewelry creators - each of the small businesses recognized provide one-of-a-kind experiences across Illinois.
“I’m very proud that both the Village Bakery in Oregon and Kennay Farms Distilling in Rochelle have been honored with the Illinois Made designation,” said Blackhawk Waterways Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Diane Bausman. “This is a big honor and recognizes the hard work, dedication and versatility both businesses have shown during these tough times.”

Launched in 2016, Illinois Made spotlights the people, products and experiences authentic to Illinois and inspires residents and visitors to explore these iconic destinations when traveling the state, or in their own backyard. The program, which currently features more than 175 makers, helps drive foot traffic into local businesses around the state.
The Illinois Office of Tourism promotes Illinois Made makers through inclusion in trip itineraries, events, seasonal campaigns and the annual Illinois Made Holiday Gift Guide – encouraging consumers to support small businesses throughout the holiday shopping season – to be announced later this month.
“Our small businesses are the backbone of Illinois’ economy, which is why it’s now more important than ever that we celebrate their role given the challenges faced during COVID-19,” said Erin B. Guthrie, director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), which includes the Illinois Office of Tourism. “On behalf of the Pritzker administration, I am thrilled to welcome the newest makers into the Illinois Made program, and to recognize them for their vital contributions in communities across the state.
Kennay Farms Distilling is located in downtown Rochelle at 416 Lincoln Highway. The Village Bakery is located at 101 N. 3rd St. in Oregon.