Mayor Kovarik honored as Gurnee Days begins

Gurnee Mayor Kristina Kovarik was all smiles as she greeted guests, family and friends during the 2017 Gurnee Days Testimonial Dinner in her honor at the Hunt Club Community Center.

The dinner marked the beginning of the 45th annual festival that runs through Sunday featuring amusement rides, food tents, entertainment, fireworks and a parade.

Kovarik was elected as a Gurnee trustee in 1999 and served until 2005 when she became mayor for the village of Gurnee. She has served the community continuously for 20 years as a public servant.

"I'm over the moon and tickled pink. It's just absolutely incredible to be recognized like this," said Kovarik as she hugged friends and neighbors. "I'm just overwhelmed with the love that I am getting back from my community. It makes all the long hours worth it."

Friday's events begin with carnival rides and food booths starting at 5 p.m. at Viking Park. The festival also includes Gurnee Idol, Family Bubble Soccer, beer garden and entertainment from the Gina Glocksen Band.