SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE!!!
For the most up-to-date information check our web site at:
www.popeyepicnic.com
WIN COOL STUFF!!!
Local merchants and national corporations have donated over a thousand dollars worth of items/services. There will be drawings every hour to award cash and prizes!!! For full details visit our Central Stand in Sweet Haven Harbor during the Picnic. You could WIN BIG!!!
CHESTER, ILLINOIS “Home of Popeye”

Popeye and Friends Character Trail To Erect New Statue
Michael McClure at 5:44 pm CT on 8/22/09

The City of Chester and the Popeye Picnic Committee are proud to announce that the next statue in the Popeye and Friends Character Trail will feature Castor Oyl and Bernice the Whiffle Hen and will be installed in front of Memorial Hospital in Chester. This latest addition to the multi-year plan to develop tourism in Randolph County will honor the historical significance of these characters and their cartoon connection with Popeye. In 1929 Castor Oyl needed someone to pilot his boat to Dice Island, so he hired Popeye for the job. Castor and his Whiffle Hen partner, Bernice, are the primary characters responsible for the creation of Popeye. The one-eyed sailor has become an international icon that holds the record for the most cartoons produced, and his popularity has generated enormous interest in our city.

Under the general name of “Popeye and Friends Character Trail”, this effort seeks to place, throughout Chester, over a dozen statues representing the residents of Elzie Segar’s comic kingdom. A bronze Popeye statue was erected in 1977, and the first granite statue of the new plan, fashioned in the likeness of Wimpy, was unveiled during the Popeye Picnic of 2006. The second granite statue, unveiled in 2007 was the trio Olive Oyl, Swee’ Pea and Eugene the Jeep. The trail continued to expand in 2008 with the likeness of Bluto erected at Buena Vista National Bank.

The statues are funded by individual and corporate donations. Each sponsor of $150 or more has their name (ie: personal/corp./organization /that of a loved one) engraved in the granite base. Debbie Brooks, the current Popeye Picnic Chairman, stated, “This is a fantastic opportunity to pay tribute to one of our city’s most famous sons, Elzie Segar, and the two cartoon characters responsible for the creation of Popeye, one of the most famous characters known around the world!”

To secure your spot on a future statue, contact Michael McClure by email at watson@egyptian.net or phone 618-826-5125.

Exclusive Popeye Comic Book To Be Released At Picinc
Michael McClure at 5:42 pm CT on 8/22/09


This year everyone in Chester, Illinois, will be rolling out the spinach-green carpet on September 11-13 with its 30th annual Popeye Picnic celebration. It was here that EC Segar grew up and created the strip which was based on some of the city’s more colorful citizens. In addition to an incredible list of Free events including the unveiling of the latest life-size granite character statue, the city will offer visitors an all-new POPEYE PICNIC comic book premium, the first such comic produced featuring Popeye and his pals in over 30 years.

The new POPEYE PICNIC comic premium was the brainchild of Chris Yambar and his company, PREMIUM POP, a division of CLI 2.0 (formerly known as Comic Library International). The premium features 32 pages of original material found nowhere else. Yambar, who wrote the issue, was joined by fellow artists George Broderick, Jr., and Ken Wheaton. Popeye newspaper strip creator Hy Eisman and comic book artist George Wildman contributed pin-ups for the project. The book not only allows the Popeye cast to attend the actual picnic celebration in Chester, it allows Popeye to travel back in history to meet his creator, the citizens who inspired Olive and Wimpy, and Rocky Feigle, the man who was the inspiration for Popeye himself.

“Popeye is a true American icon,” Yambar stated from his studio in Youngstown, Ohio. “Joining forces with the people of Chester to create a premium comic honoring the character and his birthplace was a natural. Coming up with a story line that allowed Popeye to celebrate his 80th birthday face-to-face with himself…that was supernatural!”

Finding the right talent to birth the project was no problem for the award-winning Yambar, who is recognized for his work on mainline titles such as Bart Simpson Comics, Radioactive Man, Mister Magoo and his own creation, Mr.Beat. He quickly enlisted the help of Pittsburgh, PA’s George Broderick, Jr., (Lost In Space, I Dream of Jeannie, Speed Racer, Munsters) and Rochester, NY’s Ken Wheaton (Futurama, Kolchak, Buckaroo Banzai), who are lifelong Popeye fans.

“George and Ken would have killed me if I had asked anyone else to draw this comic,” Yambar laughed. “Working on Popeye was their dream project. Thanks to the city of Chester, Illinois, and the kind people over at King Features Syndicate, that dream became a reality. It was an honor for all of us at Premium Pop to work on such a time-honored property as Popeye. What a benchmark way to begin our new premium comics division.”

On Friday, September 11, Eisman and Wildman will join Yambar, Broderick, Jr., and Wheaton (TEAM POPEYE) for a historic five-man POPEYE PICNIC comic signing from 4 to 6 PM at the Chester Library. The event will duplicate on Saturday, September 12, from 3 to 4:30 PM.

“There are not enough words in the English language to describe how thrilled we are with the new Popeye comic premium produced by Chris Yambar, George Broderick, Jr., and Ken Wheaton,” exclaimed Michael McClure, Chester’s Popeye Picnic Chairman from 2004 through 2008. “After an over-30-year hiatus, this is the first authentic and original use of the traditional Popeye character in printed comic form. The world of Popeye fans owes undying gratitude to Premium Pop for the opportunity to add this tremendously fun premium to their collections. Every comic enthusiast, whether a Popeye devotee or not, will want to own a copy.”

Debbie Brooks, the current Picnic Chairman claims, "This Comic is fantastic! The true story behind Popeye's genesis has finally been told, in in such an entertaining way that readers will not even realize that they are being educated. Our heart-felt thanks go out to Premium Pop and King Features Syndicate for their efforts to make this comic available!"

You can purchase your own copy at a pre-picnic discount by visiting Spinach Can Collectibles (618-826-4567). The comic is expected to be available at the Popeye Picnic Central Stand (Sept 11th through 13th), but only while supplies last.

For more information about the Popeye Picnic celebration, visit www.popeyepicnic.com.

For more information on the Popeye Picnic comic or for additional interview opportunities, contact Chris Yambar & Premium Pop at cyambar@hotmail.com or call (330) 506-1991.

* Popeye the Sailor and all related characters are TM & copyright King Features Syndicate. All Rights Reserved. Popeye is the Registered Trademark of King Features Inc. & TM Hearst Holdings Inc.*

FREE Musical Entertainment For 2009 Festival
Michael McClure at 5:32 pm CT on 8/22/09

Even the most discriminating ear will find something to enjoy at this year’s Picnic. A wide range of styles will be heard as talented local artists entertain the crowds at many venues, all of which are FREE.

On Friday, September 11th , our Pirate's Cove will launch the hottest entertainment plaza this region has ever seen / heard! Steve Kirn, the One Man Band will open at 4 pm. The official band of the Popeye Picnic, "AOTA", will follow at 6:30pm, and then one of our local favorites "Tempting Eve" will finish out the night from 8 till midnight. Our Sweet Haven Harbor (in Thimble Theatre Alley, located at 1019 State St.) will host "Charlie and the Girls" at 4:30pm, and "Krystal Klear" at 7:30pm.

On Saturday, Sept. 12th , the Popeye Parade kicks off the musical festivities with it’s High School Marching Band competition. This contest should bring out the very best that our region has to offer, including our own high school and grade school bands. At Pirate's Cove our guests are in for the night of their lives. "Aux Sable Embers" kicks off the concert series at 2 pm, followed by the talented "Dan Erickson" at 3:15. Next up will be "Of Human" at 4:30, to be followed by "The Boy and His Machine" at 5:45. "Two Nights To Sundown" will kick into gear at 6:45 and then the popular local band, "Voyager" will rock the Cove from 8 until midnight. In Sweet Haven Harbor's Thimble Theatre Alley, "Steve Kirn, The One-Man Band" will entertain from 2 to 5:30 p.m. The Harbor night life kicks into gear at 6pm with a concert featuring the Christian band "Unmerited". After they are finished, DJ "Krystal Klear" will host the party from 8 until 11p.m.

Sunday afternoon, Sept. 13th , offers a varied collection of musical talent. From Noon to 3 p.m., "Steve Kirn, The One Man Band" will set the mood at the Pirate's Cove. Meanwhile the annual Sacred Concert at St. Mary’s Catholic Church will open with an instrumental prelude at 1:30 p.m., followed by the vocal concert at 2 p.m. Sweet Haven Harbor's Thimble Alley will host "Charlie & The Girls at 1 pm. "Terry Roberson" will entetain the Harbor crowds from 3 til 5:30. The Chester Municipal Band, now in it’s 72nd year, will close out their season with a heart-warming concert, under the direction of Mr. Steven Colonel, in the Gazebo park, starting at 5:30 p.m. "Steve Kirn" will return to the Cove from 5:30 till 8:30pm to stir our patriotism while the fantastic display of the latest in Firework technology caps the rousing festival at 8 p.m.

This crowded slate of FREE entertainment is made possible by the many generous sponsors of the 30th Annual Popeye Picnic. The picnic chairman, Debbie Brooks, requests “Please visit the festival’s website at www.popeyepicnic.com to see all of the people that provide this free programming, and patronize them often as a way of showing your thanks.”

MUSICAL TALENT BIOGRAPHIES AND SOUND CLIPS SUBMITTED BY ARTISTS

AUX SABLE EMBERS
Aux Sable Embers is an energetically fresh pop-punk/powerpop group from the cornfields of the Chicago suburbs in a small town called Morris, IL. Formed in the summer 2007, this relatively new band has spent a lot of their first year playing weekend shows to gain exposure and spreading the fan base. On summer break from school, the band would tour longer far-away places to increase their exposure. This helped with the momentum they were looking for and landed them a spot on the 2008 Vans Warped Tour, Kevin Says Stage in Chicago and Minneapolis. "We're kids that want to be on the road constantly, record great songs and put on dynamic live shows for our fans. We want to do this for a living, who wouldn‘t?" says front man Mike Burns. This band continues to stand out from the rest with positive and yet sometimes dark lyrics, harmonies, and catchy hooks. Their work ethic in songwriting and self-promotion is very dedicated, and they are ready for great things to come. In addition, with enthusiastic and loyal fans across the globe, they will not remain an unknown band outside of Chicago for long. In 2009, the band continues to grow with a large coast-to-coast tour and their third EP entitled “Deception” to hit stores in mid-July.
Visit www.myspace.com/aserock

THE BOY AND HIS MACHINE
The Buffalo, NY- based Pop/Rock band The Boy And His Machine formed in the summer of 2007. Ron Griffo (Vocals/Guitar) and Ryan Martin (Drums) had teamed together to form the band, while guitarist Jake Strawser & Bassist Christian Adams would later complete the lineup. Shortly after the bands formation studio time followed, and the band recorded their debut EP, 2007's All That We Make It. After releasing All That We Make It in 2007, TBAHM began to earn a fervent following supplying the perfect dose of infectious pop hooks and unique lyrics that any listener could really relate to. In 2008 the band appeared on the Vans Warped tour and shortly after made their way to Baltimore MD to work with renowned producer Paul Leavitt on their latest release "Show Them What You're Made Of". As 2008 was coming to and end the band was voted one of the top 21 unsigned artists of 2008 by purevolume.com - not bad for a few guys from the frozen tundra known only as Buffalo NY. 2009 looks to be an exciting year for the guys and with the release of their new EP right around the corner the band has big plans - taking on the world one city at a time.
Visit www.myspace.com/theboyandhismachine

TERRY ROBERSON
Singer, songwriter and cowboy poet Terry Roberson has been taking the Midwestern stages for the past 26 years, performing country as well as western music (songs of the American cowboy) and his own original brand of cowboy poetry. In recent years he has opened for such noted artists as Michael Martin Murphy, Rex Allen Jr., Marty Haggard, Johnny Paycheck, Bill Anderson and a host of others.Terry's attention to detail and professionalism are always apparent in his performances. His main goal is to provide a wholesome source of family entertainment, while keeping alive our proud western heritage. For booking information dial 618-567-8443 or 618-719-9705.

CHARLIE AND THE GIRLS
"Charlie and The Girl's” are a family bluegrass band from Ellis Grove, IL. They play traditional bluegrass and gospel music. The band consists of Charlie, 17yrs.old who plays fiddle, lead guitar and mandolin. Emily 14 yrs. old who plays mandolin, guitar and banjo.
Rosemary 11 yrs. old who plays fiddle, mandolin, and guitar. Natalie 8 yrs. old also sings. Kabbie their mother accompanies them on the upright bass. Charlie and Emily take turns singing the lead while the rest of the family harmonize to good old fashioned bluegrass tunes. You'll have a foot tappin' good time listening to this energetic young family band.

STEVE KIRN: THE ONE MAN BAND

Visit www.myspace.com/stevekirn

ALL OF THE ABOVE

Visit www.myspace.com/alloftheabove2004

DAN ERICKSON

Visit www.myspace.com/danericksonmusic

OF HUMAN

Visit www.myspace.com/ofhumanmusic

UNMERITED

Visit www.myspace.com/unmeritedmusic

TWO NIGHTS TO SUNDOWN

Visit www.myspace.com/twonightstosundowntnts

SAND-tastic Work of Art To Be Featured At This Year's Festival
Michael McClure at 5:31 pm CT on 8/22/09

Popeye the Sailorman was accustomed, by occupation, to wandering the sandy shores of many ports. It seems only fitting then that the 2009 Popeye Picnic Committee has again commissioned a sand sculpturer to honor our cartoon clan! Ted Siebert of Woodstock, IL is a current Guinness World Record holder for creating the tallest sand castle ever! At the 2006 Popeye Picnic, Ted created a work of art that reflected our celebration of Wimpy's 75th birthday, and it lasted outdoors for over 2 months . This year we have invited Ted back, along with his partner, Brian Turnbough, to represent our theme, "Popeye Adventures In Little Egypt"! Brian has been involved with over 100 projects as far away as Europe and Asia. He was also part of the sandsculpting team that took top honors for People's Choice at the Worlld Sand Sculpting Championships in 2003. He has also been featured on the Travel Channel's "SandBlasters" program as well as a feature story with fellow sand artist Ted Siebert on WGN TV recently.

The team of artists will begin their preparations on Thursday, September 10th, between 1 and 8 p.m. on Swanwick St. behind Blazing Colors. After shoveling, tamping and watering, the carving will commence.

This is a major event that everyone will want to visit over and over again throughout the Picnic. Guests will be fascinated at how a cubed block of compressed sand will magically transform into a whimsical work of art. Ted and Brian will continue their craft on Saturday, September 12th from 2 to 8 p.m., and finish his creation on Sunday, September 13th between Noon and 8 p.m. “DO NOT MISS THIS!!!

Popeye Picnic Shirts Now Available
Michael McClure at 5:28 pm CT on 8/22/09

T-shirts for the upcoming Popeye Picnic are now available for sale.

The official festival t-shirts, which incorporate the theme "Popeye's Adventures In Little Egypt", are now available at Spinach Can Collectibles (618-826-4567), Chester City Hall and Rozier’s Country Market. The cost of the t-shirt is $12. Shirts will also be available at the Central Stand in the new Sweet Haven Harbor area during the picnic.

Another t-shirt is available in connection with the latest addition to the "Popeye and Friends Character Trail". Castor Oyl, Olive Oyl's little brother, and Bernice, the Whiffle Hen, will have their statue unveiled on September 12th after the Picnic parade. The shirt is now available at Spinach Can Collectibles, and also at the Picnic Central Stand (Sept. 11-13 2009) for only $13.00.

The back of this collectible t-shirt features a map of the planned character trail which includes the locations and erection dates for each of the current and future statues.

The Popeye Picnic Committee is proud to announce a fantastic new carnival will thrill the guests at this year’s festival. JCJ Amusements will provide many exciting rides (with no inflatables) that will fill the vacated Gilster Mary-Lee parking lots located behind the Chester National Bank and across from Sweet Pea's, as well as the parking lot adjacent to Peace Lutheran Church.. The carnival rides will open at 4:00 pm on Friday, noon on Saturday, and noon on Sunday.

Pre-sale tickets are $10.00 for strips of twenty-four and will be available at all three local banks (Buena Vista, Chester National, First Bank)after Sept 4th, but only while supplies last. The single ticket price during the picnic will be $1.25, and 12 tickets for $10.00, so this pre-sale offering represents a major discount well worth the effort. All rides being offered will require 2 or 3 tickets. JCJ Amusements will offer NO armband discount this year, so the purchase of these pre-sale tickets is the only way of receiving such a sizeable discount. Rides will be provided for all ages.

Popeye Picnic Committee is so thankful that JCJ Amusements has accepted their offer to be a part of south-west Illinois’ largest event. They look forward to entertaining guests at this year's Picnic, as well as becoming a regular part of this ever-growing festival. You may view a small portion of the carnival rides by visiting www.jcjamusements.com.

Heartland Championship Wrestling, in conjuction with Full Throttle Wrestling, L.L.C., has been touring the region and raising funds for many worthwhile charities. They have most recently performed for Wal-Mart Children's Miracle Network and the Anna Moose Children's Home. Join the fray on Sunday, Sept. 13th, at 3pm in Pirate's Cove for an exciting production. Long time professional wrestler, Kamala Jr. (see photo) will add his talent to this year's event. Ringside bleachers will be available for the first to arrive, and you are welcome to bring your favorite lawn chairs. For more information about HCW events please contact Will Dixon (618-614-4282). This family-friendly event(absolutely no cursing or crude behavior)is another entirely FREE offering presented for your enjoyment by the Popeye Picnic Committee.

NEWS FLASH!!!! Also booked to appear in Collision At Chester is KUMULA Jr.!!!! Don't miss this explosive event!!!

Granny's Family FotoShop
Michael McClure at 5:05 pm CT on 8/22/09

Individuals, couples or groups will delight in what Granny has brought to the 2009 Popeye Picnic. Granny's Family FotoShop will place you or your family in the middle of Popeye and his gang, thanks to the magic of green-screen technology. The Mississippi Valley Art Guild is sponsoring this project, and the only cost involved helps pay for the paper each photo is printed on. Don't miss your chance to add your clan to the long list of Popeye players! The photos make great gifts for family and friends!

Granny's Showboat Old Tyme Photos will be open Saturday from 1:30 till 4pm and Sunday from 1:30 till 4pm. Enjoy our private, photo parlor located at 1006 State St. .... right next to the Popeye Picnic Central Stand in State St. Plaza!

First Baptist Church Sponsors FREE Inflatables
Michael McClure at 4:48 pm CT on 8/22/09

For the sixth year, the First Baptist Church in Chester will sponsor inflatable entertainment for our youthful guests. This year’s activities will be supplied by Extreme Inflatables and will again be located on Light Street and a portion of Swanwick. Many of the events can be enjoyed by all ages.

All of the events sponsored by First Baptist Church will be free of charge and will be open to the public Saturday September 12th from 2:00 to 8:00 pm and Sunday September 13th from 1 pm to 6 pm.

“The First Baptist Church of Chester deserves the thanks of every member of our community. Their generous funding provides a fun, free event for all families to enjoy. We hope that we can partner together for a very long time and provide Chester with yet another family-friendly venue at future Popeye Picnics.”

Popeye Picnic Pet Show and Dachshund Race
Michael McClure at 4:45 pm CT on 8/22/09

The Popeye Picnic Committee is proud to present the fourth annual Popeye Pet Show to be held on Sunday, September 13th from 1:30pm until 3:00 in the Gazebo Park. All breeds cats and dogs are welcome, and awards will be presented in the following classes:

DOGS
Popeye Character Look Alike
Most Obedient
Best Groomed
Oldest
Youngest
Pet/Owner Look-Alike
Best of Show

CATS
Popeye Character Look Alike
Most Obedient
Fattest
Oldest
Youngest
Pet/Owner Look Alike
Best of Show

Registration will begin at noon at the Gazebo Park. All pets must be leashed at all times, and owners will be required to provide proof of rabies vaccination at registration. Every entry will receive a participant ribbon and ribbons will be awarded for first, second and third place for each class, along with “Best of Show”. Bring your preferred pooch, your captivating cat, or just your two-legged friend and enjoy another popular Popeye Picnic offering.

1st ANNUAL WIMPY’S WEINER DOG DERBY RACE

Immediately following the Pet Show, Wimpy's Wiener Dog Derby will be held at 3pm in the Gazebo Park. All dachshund owners should contact Dianna Mueller at 618-826-3035 for further details.

WIMPY’S WEINER DOG DERBY RACE RULES AND REGULATIONS

ALL dogs must have current shots.

Purebred Dachshunds will race with Purebred Dachshunds.

Mixed or Part-bred Dachshunds will race with Mixed or Part-bred Dachshunds.

ALL dogs MUST be on a leash at ALL times except during their race.

Each participating Dachshund will need to bring two (2) humans—one to release on the starting end of the “track” and one to catch. (If you do not have a second person, please let us know and we will call volunteers from the audience.)

A number will be assigned and attached to your dog’s collar or harness.

We ask that you DO NOT THROW your dog to start the race. The fun part is to see which dogs run and which visit with the surrounding crowd or other dogs!

NO FOOD IS ALLOWED ON THE “TRACK”!

You may bring a favorite toy to encourage your dog to come to you at the “finish” line—but you will NOT be allowed to throw it on the “track”.

Please pick up after your own dog(s). Thanks in advance for bringing your own supplies to clean up after your pets!

If enough dogs participate, we will hold “heats” in which 4 to 8 dogs race at a time. The 1st Place Winners of each race will then participate in 2 FINAL races (both Purebred and Part-bred) to determine the CHAMPIONS!

There is NO ENTRY FEE but a DONATION BOX for the RANDOLPH COUNTY HUMANE SHELTER will be made available at the race “track” should you wish to contribute.

EVERY dog is a WINNER in our eyes and will receive a PARTICIPATION AWARD!

14. This is to be a FUN EVENT—so let’s keep it light and have a good time!!!

Fantastic Prizes To Be Given Away At This Year's Festival
Michael McClure at 3:35 pm CT on 8/22/09

Our improved attendance giveaway will feature over a thousand dollars worth of prizes to be awarded during this year’s Popeye Picnic. Titled Olive Oyl’s Prize Paradise, the drawing will feature hundreds of items and services donated by local merchants, as well as many celebrities and national corporations. Several have donated autographed items and sports memorabilia. Popular shows have provided signed items in the past, and some have even sent VIP passes to future filming productions. Regional destinations like Six Flags, Branson and St. Louis , Missouri attractions have given tickets, passes and special perks for the lucky travelers who happen to win!

So many local sponsors have generously donated enough items that, in the one hundred drawings to take place from Friday, Sept. 11th through Sunday, Sept. 13th, over a thousand dollars in cash and valuable prizes will be awarded. The winner of each set of prizes will have until 8pm on the day of that drawing to collect their winnings. The Popeye Picnic Committee will post, on a large sign at their Central Stand, the names of all donors and winners each day, and give one courtesy call to whatever phone number the ticket purchaser provides in order to alert winners of their good fortune. Tickets will be available at the Popeye Picnic Central Stand during the entire picnic, and can be pre-purchased at Spinach Can Collectibles. The cost is only $1.00 per ticket (or 20 tickets for $10.00) and all tickets purchased are good for all three days of giveaways, but only one prize will be awarded per ticket.

Grand Prize Giveaway at Popeye Picnic
Michael McClure at 3:31 pm CT on 8/22/09

The Popeye Picnic Committee will hold its annual Grand Prize Giveaway this year on Sunday evening September 13th. The drawing will be at 8:30 pm at the Central Stand in the State St. Plaza.

Tickets are being sold for $5 each and will continue to be on sale from the Central Stand throughout the Picnic.

The total of the four cash awards to be given out will equal 50% of what is received through the sale of tickets. Out of the total receipts from ticket sales, 1st Prize is 30%, 2nd Prize is 10%, 3rd and 4th Prizes are 5% each. Therefore if all 1000 tickets are sold, First Prize would be worth $1,500.00!

Those whose names are drawn need not be present to win.

Proceeds of the raffle are used to improve your Popeye Picnic. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to support a good cause, and maybe even profit from the experience!

U.S. ARMY to produce FREE "dogtags" on Saturday
Michael McClure at 2:59 pm CT on 8/22/09

The U.S. ARMY has graciously offered to produce free I.D. tags ( also known as dogtags) for any guest at this year’s Popeye Picnic in Pirate's Cove. They will run their event on Saturday, September 12th from 2 to 6 p.m. and be located on the V.F.W.lot. This is a FREE not-to-be-missed opportunity.


FREE FUN at Cole Oyl's Family Fairground
Michael McClure at 2:15 pm CT on 8/22/09

The whole family needs to visit Cole Oyl’s Family Fairground during this year’s Popeye Picnic.

Located on Light Street and Swanwick St. behind the Gazebo, Cole Oyl’s Family Fair will be packed with fun for everyone, and everything is FREE! Popeye's hometown, Sweet Haven, is represented by mini-buildings throughout the grounds.

Some of the free fun includes Swee' Pea's Petting Zoo, absolutely FREE rides on Popeye's Pony Carousel, and four days (incl. Thursday)of opportunities to watch the Guinness Book Of World Records Sand Sculpting Title- Holder use 20 tons of sand to create a work of art specially commissioned by the Popeye Picnic Committee. And there is so much more!!! Magicians, Balloon Artist, Caricaturists, Puppet Shows, and the cartoon friends of our hometown hero, Popeye, will join him in welcoming guests to our festival.

The First Baptist Church will once again sponsor free inflatable activities, this year supplied by Extreme Inflatables. See elsewhere in this section about this attraction.

Popeye’s Pony Carousel,now supplied by Gary Wagoner's Rope-N-Ride, is being offered absolutely FREE, thanks to the many generous sponsors listed on this website. Please take a moment to see all of our supporters and thank them with your patronage.

For more information on exact times, etc., check the Popeye Pcinic website at www.popeyepicnic.com .

Popeye's Jr. Fireman's Muster
Michael McClure at 4:35 pm CT on 8/18/09

The Chester Volunteer Fire Department will again be sponsoring Popeye’s Junior Firemen’s Muster in conjunction with this year’s Popeye Picnic.

The event will be Saturday, September 12th from 4pm to 5 pm in the bowl behind St. Mary's School.

Participating in the competition will be students from all three of Chester’s Elementary schools. During the first weeks of school, one student was selected from each grade level, first through eighth, to represent his or her class.

The overall winner of the competitions will receive a traveling trophy to represent their school until next year’s competition. This fun-filled event is a crowd pleaser!

Olive Oyl's Cafe/ Arts and Crafts at St. John
Michael McClure at 4:32 pm CT on 8/18/09

Once again, great food will abound at Olive Oyl’s Café located at St. John Parish Hall on the corner of Holmes St. and West German St. Along with this wonderful food is an Arts & Crafts Show.

This event will be held Saturday, September 12th from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday, September 13th from 10 am to 4pm. Vendors may contact Mary Webster at 618-826-5831.

The café menu will feature a wide variety, including smoked sausage, sloppy joe or hot dog, all served as plates with baked beans, potato salad or chips or just the sandwiches; nachos & cheese; homemade pies, cakes; drinks and their famous taco salad.

Come in and enjoy the vendors and food all while cooling off in the air conditioned hall.

Washer and Volleyball Tournaments To Be Held On Saturday
Michael McClure at 4:29 pm CT on 8/18/09

The Popeye Washer Tournament, coordinated by Curt Ebers, will be held on Saturday, Sept. 12th inside the VFW Hall. Pre-registration for this popular event will be from 3:00 to 4:00 pm and carries a $20.00 entry fee. Contact the Chester VFW with any further questions at 618-826-3411. Be sure to bring your pitching skills to this year's Picnic and give your best shot at taking home the grand prize!!! The tournament begins at 4pm.

The Eagles will again host their Volleyball Tournament on Saturday, Sept. 12th, starting at 9 am. Teams of no-more-than 3 men and no-less-than 2 women will vie for the 100% cash payout of prizes and trophies. Entry carries a $60.00 fee. For more information you may contact Stacey Search at 618-826-3660 or 618-615-6224.

Birds of Prey on Exhibit on Saturday
Michael McClure at 4:25 pm CT on 8/18/09

Bernard’s Buddies: Illinois Birds of Prey will be featured Saturday September 12th from 2 to 4 pm at the Chester Gazebo Park.

This event displays and discusses eagles, redtailed hawks, owls and other birds of prey found in southern Illinios, and is co-ordinated by Bev Shofstal of Free Again Rehabilitation Center of Carterville. Discussion includes the natural history and the importance of these birds to our environment.

One of the most impressive birds, Bernard the Vulture (also known as Rex), has been human imprinted. He is very entertaining and a delight to meet. Who knows .... the lovely (?) Sea Hag may pay a visit to see her right-hand bird.

This display is a great opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close and is a free event open to the public.

30th annual Popeye 5k Race-Walk registration form available
Brian Snider at 4:17 pm CT on 8/06/09

The entry form for the 30th annual Popeye 5k race/walk and 1.5 mile fun run is now available.

To download the entry form, right click HERE and save the file to your computer.

Winners of Cartooning with the Pros
Brian Snider at 7:02 pm CT on 9/10/08

15 and Under: 1. Dylan Stallman

2. Joshua Humphreys

3. Zach Woods

16-25: 1. Josh Davitz

2. Thomas Grider

3. Rode Francisco

26-40: 1. Stacy Humphreys

2. Charnelle Lilley

3. Tracy Woods

41-50: 1. Gary Wallace

2. Lenny Kohl

3. Cookie Morris

51 & Over: 1. Brian Morris

2. Randy Collins

3. Irene Dierks

Best of Show: Dylan Stallman

Honorable Mention: Chuck Anders & Ryan Maxwell

Special thanks to the Chester library staff and our pros Ken Wheaton and Tom Gordonier both of Rochester NY .


Winners in the 3rd Annual Popeye Pet Show
Brian Snider at 7:00 pm CT on 9/10/08

Popeye Character Look Alike: 1st Hootch shown by Avery Sebastian of Chester .

Most Obedient: 1st Rosie shown by Kathy Fairchild of Bedford TX, 2nd Valeria shown by Ruth Casten of Chester, 3rd Hera shown by John Champlin of Chester-Honorable Mention: Jack shown by Blake Huffman of Chester, Dafney shown by Earl Wahl of Ellis Grove, Cocoa Josephina shown by Noah Franklin of Chester, Magic shown by Ruth Casten of Chester

Best Groomed: 1st Magic shown by Ruth Casten of Chester, 2nd Max shown by Greg Jones of Chester, 3rd Hootch shown by Avery Sebastian of Chester-Honorable Mention: Cody shown by Lisa Cannol of Chester, Jack shown by Blake Huffman of Chester, Maddie shown by Jerre Atchison of Chester, Valeria shown by Ruth Casten of Chester

Oldest: 1st Rosie shown by Kathy Fairchild of Bedford TX

Youngest: 1st tie Dakota shown by Katherine Beck of Chester and Jade shown by Yvonne Champlin of Chester, 2nd Cocoa Josephina shown by Noah Franklin of Chester, 3rd Libby shown by Emma Gretzmacher of Chester

Pet/Owner Look Alike: 1st Libby & Emma, 2nd Hootch & Avery, 3rd Valeria & Ruth

Pet/Host Look Alike: Dafney shown by Earl Wahl of Ellis Grove.

Best of Show: Max shown by Greg Jones & Magic shown by Ruth Casten of Chester.

Libby (Yorkie) shown by Emma Gretzmacher of Chester , winner of Pet/Owner Look Alike Class

Rosie (Golden Retriever) shown by Kathy Fairchild of Bedford TX , winner of Most Obedient & Oldest Dog Classes

Max (Airdale) shown by Greg Jones of Chester accepts Best of Show ribbon from host Cathy Rinne.

Magic shown by Ruth Casten of Chester winner of Best of Show.

No cats attended the show…

Special thanks to judges Katie Wheaton of Rochester NY , Ron Hausch of Detroit MI , and Heidi Snyder of Red Bud IL and photographer Paula Hausch of Detroit MI and the Randolph County Humane Society for assisting with the show..


Popeye 5k race results
Brian Snider at 6:19 pm CT on 9/10/08

For the results on this year's Popeye 5k Races, you can log on to http://popeyerace.blogspot.com

Hardee's Hometown Tour makes donation to 2008 Popeye Picnic
Michael McClure at 8:59 pm CT on 8/15/08

The Popeye Picnic Committee wishes to thank Hardee's and the LeVecke family for their generosity. We look forward to a long partnership as, together, we bring more FREE entertainment and opportunities to our growing festival. Please be sure to stop by our local Hardee's restaurant to thank them for their support!

Photo: Carl LeVecke (third from the left) presented the Platinum Sponsorship check to the Trustees of the Popeye Picnic Committee at the Chester Hardee's Restaurant on Thursday, Aug 14th. Mr. LeVecke and his brother and sister are the new owners of 60 Hardee's franchises in the Midwest and South. The three LeVecke siblings are the grandchildren of Carl's Jr. founder Carl N.Karcher. They believe in hometown values and are spreading their generosity throughout the region.

After landing a spot on the final leg of the legendary Backstreet Boys’ Unbreakable 2008 World Tour, The Drive Home has the internet music scene buzzing. From forums to Myspace pages, The Drive Home is making their presence felt.

Just who is The Drive Home?

The Drive Home is a fun, fresh, clean, and positive group of guys with infectious melodies that will make you smile and hit the repeat button on your iPod. With a lineup boasting everything from a Broadway caliber singer and actor to an international professional soccer player to a classically trained cellist, The Drive Home has a little something for everyone.

What happens when you mix a pop-star with a rock-star and add little bit of contagious enthusiasm? You get a band that within their first 4 months of existence was able to garner attention from world renowned musicians such as Kyle Cook (Matchbox 20, Maroon 5), promoters like World Wide Entertainment (Yellowcard, Cold Play, Train), and was hand-picked for a high profile arena gig and radio commercial by Radio Disney.

The Drive Home didn’t break into the local music scene, they took it over.

Through their hard work, professionalism, and endearing charisma, they cemented their status as a fan favorite. On the heels of their local success, the band obtained the #1 spot on MTVU’s Best Music on Campus charts.

The subsequent exposure combined with the dedication of their fan base lead to The Drive Home earning a place on the Epitaph, Drive-Thru, and Epic Records Top Unsigned Bands List. In addition, the band has also scored appearances on Fox’s Deco Drive and won the Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands, earning a chance to showcase their talent at the Miami date of the Vans Warped Tour.

Currently, The Drive Home is working closely with various corporate and private partners to promote their dynamic live performances and selfproduced EP through a cross-promotional nationwide tour.

To give this talented group a test-drive, please visit their home at www.drivehomemusic.com and then visit them LIVE at this year's Popeye Picnic on Friday, Sept. 5th at 6pm in the Pirate's Cove Entertainment Plaza, and then again for an encore performance on Sunday, Sept. 7th at 6:30pm. You CAN NOT miss this opportunity to meet a fantastic group of musical artists that are destined for greatness.

Click the orange arrow on the media player below for a special message from The Drive Home.

Paul Frisbie is a regular at international comedy clubs, casinos, and corporate events. His standup act is intelligent, original and sometimes musical. He has collaborated on material for "The Tonight Show", and has appeared on nationally syndicated programs, including Comedy Central and Showtime. Frisbie's latest book, "The Chicago River Out Your Window," is currently available at Barnes and Noble.

Paul entertained the crowds in Pirate's Cove Entertainment Plaza during the 2008 Festival.

To preview this funny man's stuff, please visit www.paulfrisbie.com

The Popeye Picnic Committee is pleased to announce the launch of their latest commemorative event plate. This year’s offering is designed to compliment the established theme, “Popeye and the Pirates”. Mariah Snider of Blazing Color Printing won this year’s design competition. The plates will be of high quality metal as in years past, with expanded area available for character theme placement. There will be up to 125 numbered plates issued with additional non-numbered plates available. These plates can not be displayed in place of the state issued license plates, but may be displayed either above or below a current plate, or in the window of a vehicle. Since these plates do not replace the official state issued plates, they can be displayed as long as the purchaser wants and not just during the picnic.

The recently redesigned Popeye Picnic Event Plate project for 2008 will offer past subscribers an exciting opportunity to keep their collections current, and also make available this collectible art form to new fans. Last year’s numbers are currently reserved for their respective purchasers, but only guaranteed if pre-ordered by August 15th. Individual plates may be ordered at Spinach Can Collectibles (618-826-4567) for $10.00 each. If a set of two numbered plates is desired, the pre-order must be received before the deadline. The Popeye Picnic Committee urges everyone to place their order quickly, since this attractive collectible at such an affordable price will undoubtedly sell out fast.

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Thanks To A GREAT Committee! You're Out-Of-This-World!!!
Michael McClure at 3:13 pm CT on 9/21/07

THANK YOU

The 2007 Popeye Picnic Committee wishes to thank all who worked so hard to make our festival a success!!!
Many events in our region have seen decreasing attendance and vendor availability, but our event continues to grow. There are still improvements to be made, and we pledge to do our best to see that these needs are met. We sincerely thank all who shared their time, talent and finances to help us keep our promise to provide Chester with the best family-friendly festival possible (a detailed listing of our Picnic sponsors, raffle donors and Sweet Haven Village Sponsors will be listed elsewhere in this edition). There are always a few who go beyond their duty to serve. This list includes a few who deserve our special thanks:
Mayor Marty Bert and the City Council, Ken Wagner and Blazing Colors, Mike and Debbie Brooks, Cathy Rinne and the Flex-Line Corp., Charles Bargman, Bob Buckham & Gwendy Garner, Chester Police Dept./Chief Ryan Coffey, Chester Fire Dept./Chief Mike Lochhead, Kevin Diercks, Randy Eggemeyer, Steve Renner, Eddie Valleroy and all City Employees, Don, Mike & Tom Welge and the Gilster Mary Lee Corp., Greg Krantz/ Chester Electric, First Baptist Church of Chester, Roy and Mary Wunderlich family and C.H.E.S.T., Christal and Keith Thompson, Shannon Kattenbraker, Mike and Susan Lutz, Dan Colvis, Scott and Curt Gilpin, Chester Municipal Band/Steve Colonel, Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, Our shirt and ticket retailers: BV Bank, Chester National Bank, First Bank, Chester City Hall, Roziers and Spinach Can Collectibles, Richard Tinsley Amusements, Rich Inman, Michael Blechle and Rob Link, Warden Hulick, Assistant Warden Gary Conder and the employees of Menard State Penitentiary, the PREGO/Campbell Soup Company, and all of the project coordinators that make this thing happen! I would like to thank in particular my wife Susan and our children, Michael II, Jennifer, Christine and Elizabeth for the dedication and sacrifices they have made to make our Popeye Picnic a success.
-Michael W. McClure
2007 Popeye Picnic Chairman

2007 Popeye Picnic Photos Now Online!!! Alien Sightings Captured on Film!!!
Michael McClure at 3:10 pm CT on 9/21/07

Our webmaster has added the photos taken at this year's picnic. More will be added as they are submitted to the committee. Thank you to all who provided their picture-perfect memories for us to share!

Results from the Popeye 5k run - walk
Brian Snider at 8:53 pm CT on 9/11/07

The results are now available from Saturday's Popeye 5k run and 5k walk.

All of the files are PDF files.

5k run results by age group

5k run results overall results

5k walk by age categories

5k walk overall results

EMERGENCY ALERT !!! UFO WRECKAGE DISCOVERED!!!
Michael McClure at 6:02 pm CT on 8/30/07

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 30, 2007

Have They Returned???

U.F.O. wreckage was discovered only yesterday (Aug. 29th) in the heart of Chester, IL. City of Chester employees Randy Eggemeyer, Steve Renner and Eddie Valleroy were first responders at the scene. No one was home during the incident and no injuries have been reported at this time.

Ironically it was 30 years ago that the Official UFO Magazine reported aliens had attacked and destroyed the southern Illinois city of Chester. The April 1978 issue of the magazine included stunning pictures allegedly taken during the attack, as well as post-holocaust interviews with the current mayor and police chief. The Wall Street Journal (Dec. 21, 1977 issue), as well as numerous national publications, covered the story. It was due to this unique anniversary that the 28th Annual Popeye Picnic Committee chose “Popeye Vs. The Spacemen” as the theme for the Sept. 7, 8 and 9, 2007 festival. Chester is also the hometown of Popeye the Sailorman (further details concerning Popeye and the picnic can be found at www.popeyepicnic.com ).

NASA will not be allowed to examine the site until after the Popeye Picnic is over. This will insure that our festival guests will have a first-hand opportunity to examine the original wreckage. I must add that the site is available to the public for photos. If you need further information please contact my office at 618-826-5114.

Sincerely,

Marty Bert, Mayor
City of Chester

Enter (cut and paste to save time) the following link on your address bar to access KTVI Fox 2 (St. Louis, MO Television) coverage of the incident. The newscrew shot LIVE on location at 8:40 am, Monday, Sept. 3, 2007:

http://www.myfoxstl.com/myfox/pages/Home/Detail;jsessionid=1704781DB287C78B2362025F0AA5488F?contentId=4247796&version=1&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=VSTY&pageId=1.1.1&sflg=1

Themes For The 2007 Popeye Picnic
Michael McClure at 6:49 pm CT on 8/13/07

The Popeye Picnic Trustees established their 2007 theme as "Popeye Vs. The Spacemen". The theme was in honor of the 30th anniversary of space aliens attacking and completely destroying our fair city. This assault was reported in the Official UFO magazine published in 1977 (exactly 30 years after the Roswell incident), and Chester received worldwide attention due to this bizarre notoriety which warranted a feature article in the Wall Street Journal. It was also noted that 2007 was the 75th "birthday" of Bluto, Popeye's most persistent adversary. It is being theorized that Bluto is from Pluto, and his former minions are returning to Earth in response to the recent demotion of their home to a non-planetary status.

The 2007 Popeye and Friends Character Trail statue was ceremonially at last year's festival. It features three popular friends of Popeye: Olive Oyl, Swee'Pea and the Jeep, and stands vigil at the entry to our Randolph County Courthouse. In honor of our local inspiration for the sailor's favorite gal, this 5 foot grey granite likeness stands on a 4 foot granite base and eternally pays tribute to the Chester business owner, Dora Paskel, who helped give a budding artist his muse for the origin of Thimble Theatre! Don't wimp out!!!! Be sure to budget enough time in your day to be see this amazing statue, but don't forget Wimpy, Popeye and our latest addition, Bluto!

Alien Arena Landed At 2007 Picnic
Michael McClure at 6:36 pm CT on 8/13/07

Thanks to the generosity of Flex-Line Automation and the Cathy Rinne family, the Popeye Picnic was overjoyed to present a full scale Alien Arena at the 2007 Picnic. The 40 foot diameter battle zone, in the shape of a landed UFO, was fully enclosed and filled with fog. Many guests enjoyed this completely FREE "Out-Of-This-World" adventure!!!!!

The official 28th Annual Popeye Picnic t-shirts showcased the 2007 theme of "Popeye Vs. The Spacemen". The Picnic Committee is thrilled to offer the design submitted by the syndicated, King Features cartoonist, Hy Eisman. His outstanding design was accepted to commemorate the 30th anniversary of space aliens attacking and completely destroying our fair city. This assault was reported in the Official UFO magazine published in 1977 (exactly 30 years after the Roswell incident), and Chester received worldwide attention due to this bizarre notoriety which warranted a feature article in the Wall Street Journal. It was also noted that 2007 was the 75th "birthday" of Bluto, Popeye's most persistent adversary. It is being theorized that Bluto is from Pluto, and his former minions are returning to Earth in response to the recent demotion of their home to a non-planetary status. The official Picnic shirt features our heroic one-eyed sailor protecting the earth from an unending barrage of “Blutonians”.

These popular collector’s items are now available Spinach Can Collectibles (618-826-4567). The cost, including tax, is still only $10.00 per shirt. VERY LIMITED SUPPLIES REMAIN!

To commemorate the unveiling of the second entry in the Popeye & Friends Character Trail series, a limited edition, collectible T-Shirt is still available. Olive Oyl, Swee’ Pea and the Jeep have their own granite monument dedicated at the 2007 festival, and the shirt design is a whimsical tribute to Popeye’s favorite gal, little pal, and interplanetary pet of questionable species. Sizes include child 10-12 and 14-16, and adult sizes range from small to 3X. To order, contact Spinach Can Collectibles soon (618-826-4567) as these items will sell faster than Olive can switch suitors!

The Popeye Picnic Committee is pleased to announce the continuation of their commemorative event plate series. A limited number of last year's plates are still available. The 2007 design compliments the established theme, “Popeye Vs. The Spacemen”, in honor of the 30th anniversary of Chester’s infamously reputed destruction by visitors from outer space. The plates are of of high quality metal as in years past, with expanded area available for character theme placement. There were 125 numbered plates issued with additional non-numbered plates available. These plates can not be displayed in place of the state issued license plates, but may be displayed either above or below a current plate, or in the window of a vehicle. Since these plates do not replace the official state issued plates, they can be displayed as long as the purchaser wants, and not just during the picnic.

The recently revamped Popeye Picnic Event Plate project for 2007 offers past subscribers an exciting, new alternative to keep their collections current, and also make available this collectible art form to new fans. Both 2007 and 2008 event plates may be ordered at Spinach Can Collectibles (618-826-4567) for $10.00 each. The Popeye Picnic Committee urges everyone to place their order quickly, since this attractive collectible at such an affordable price will undoubtedly sell out fast.

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