Restrictions On The Rock River For "on The Waterfront"

NARRATIVE:Sheriff Richard Meyers is announcing the placement of certain restrictions on the Rock River in Winnebago County this weekend.  These restrictions are due to the number of activities planned on or adjacent to the Rock River during the LABOR DAY HOLIDAY WEEKEND and “ON THE WATERFRONT FESTIVAL,” which is a State Of Illinois, Department of Natural Resources permitted event. A 'NO WAKE' restriction will be in effect on the Rock River south of the Whitman Street Bridge beginning at 5:00 PM, Friday, August 29^th, and remaining in effect until midnight on Sunday, August 31^st, 2008. On Saturday, August 30^th, and Sunday, August 31^st, the Rock River will be restricted between the Jefferson Street Bridge and the State Street Bridge for approximately ½ hour at 12:00 P.M., 3:00 P.M. and 5:00 P.M. for performances by the Ski Broncs. Also, there will be a floating green for a hole-in-one contest located just south of Beattie Park approximately 120 yards from the west shore.  Golfers will be hitting colored golf balls from the west shore.   Water craft operators should use caution in this area.  The floating green will be marked and will be in the water during the entire time of the festival. Additionally, the Rockford Park District will be closing the boat ramp at the Riverview Ice House to the public beginning Thursday August 28^th through Sunday August 31^st, 2008.   The Rock River will be closed each night (August 29^th, 30^th, and 31^st) from south of the Chestnut Street Bridge to the Fordam Dam and from the Morgan Street Bridge north to the Fordam Dam for a fireworks display. As always, recreational users of the river should exercise caution when operating on the water. For current river conditions, and any further updates, contact the Sheriff=s Office at (815) 319-6300, or the Rock River information telephone line at (815) 316-8888.  You may also visit the Sheriff=s Department=s website at www.winnebagosheriff.com