Nestled in the heart of Freeport, Illinois, Krape Park stands as a testament to the city's commitment to preserving natural beauty while fostering community spirit. Spanning 120 acres, this award-winning park offers a harmonious blend of scenic landscapes, recreational facilities, and cultural events that cater to visitors of all ages.

It’s mid-May in Freeport, Illinois—and while the weather signals the height of construction season, the streets remain silent. No cones. No crews. No progress. After a year of bold promises and a tax hike that hit every resident’s wallet, residents are left asking a simple question: Where is the work?

One name that keeps surfacing is Brian Stewart, former state senator and owner of the Stewart Centre downtown. Stewart, through a network of LLCs, owns numerous properties in Freeport—and public records reveal he’s benefited from millions in property tax reductions, exemptions, and valuation appeals over the past decade. As his tax liability has gone down, the overall levy hasn’t—it’s just been shifted to regular homeowners.

Born in Kentucky on April 2, 1793, Baker first traveled to northern Illinois in 1827. Drawn to a Native American village called Winneshiek—home to the Winnebago tribe—he recognized the area's promise. On December 24, 1835, Baker returned to claim 640 acres of land, establish a trading post, and begin laying the foundation for a new settlement.