Getaway Guide 2017-2018

GETAWAY GUIDE To Central Illinois 2017-2018

Historic Hikes

take trails witH connections to illinois History

FREE ISSUE!

Hooks, Lines, & Sinkers The Best Fishing Spots

Year-round Calendar Packed Full of Events!

Race Tracks, Beaches & Pools, Museums, & More!

PlUs

activity Pages JUst For kids!

h e r a l d - r e v i e w. c o m

j g - tc . c o m

p a n ta g r a p h . c o m

800-772-0750

2 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

www.visiteffinghamil.com

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

Vandalia is the cultural crossroads of early

Illinois government, Abraham Lincoln influence, famous roads, interpretive centers, early nineteenth century historic sites, outdoor recreation for the adventurous... and even its own Fire Breathing Dragon!

VANDALIA HAS IT!

For a Schedule of Events or a FREE Brochure:

VandaliaIllinois.com

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

618.283.2728

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 3

GETAWAY GUIDE Dwight Pontiac

55

Beaverville Gilman

Watseka

24

Fairbury

136

Bloomington

Lincoln

Petersburg 55

Springfield

150

Clinton

Mt. Pulaski 36

72

Rochester Chatham Taylorville

Carlinville Plainview Bunker Hill

Pana

Nokomis Litchfield

Mahomet Urbana

Danville 74

Champaign

Monticello Bement

Bethany 51

55

74

Decatur

72

Rantoul

136

De Witt

51

1

57

LeRoy

Heyworth

Middletown Athens

45

45

Oakwood

Georgetown 150

Tuscola

Arthur

36

Arcola Oakland Paris

Sullivan 57

Mattoon

Findlay

Windsor Shelbyville Strasburg

Kansas Charleston Marshall Lerna 70

Greenup

Coffeen Staunton

Effingham 57

Hutsonville Newton

Contents

6 Hit the Trail- Explore Earlier Times 9 Central Illinois Hiking Trails 10 State Parks 11 Central Illinois Race Tracks 15 Hooks, Lines, & Sinkers Best Fishing Spots 17 Beaches & Pools 19 Horse Teams Haul Historic Amish Home 22 The Great Outdoors 25 Pencil Passion- The Art Of Andy Mast 27 Learn The Ropes! Nelson Parks Rope Course

I N D I A N A

Normal Shirley Atlanta

52

Palestine

29 The Doctor Is In At Scoville Zoo 32 Central Illinois Vineyards 33 Micro Breweries 34 Casey- Home To BIG Things In a Small Town 36 Kids Korner! Coloring & Activities 39 So Many Places To Paddle Your Boat 41 Bloomington-Normal Booms With Summer Fun 43 Area Attractions 49 Central Illinois Golf Courses 53 Calendar Of Events

REGIONAL PUBLISHER Julie Bechtel JG-TC PUBLISHER Craig Rogers SALES MANAGERS Tammy Jordan 217-238-6835 Joel Fletcher 217-421-7959 Michelle Pazar 309-820-3362 Shawna Lawrence 217-421-6905 Amanda Jones 309-820-3341 NEWS MANAGERS Penny Weaver (217) 238-6863 Scott Perry 217-421-7976 Mark Pickering (309) 820-3252 PROJECT COORDINATOR Casianne Bailey (217) 238-6840

SALES CONNIE ANDERSON SuSIE AuBERT MARK BARRA KAREN COLLIER DEBBI HICKS TYLER HuTCHISON MICHAEL KATZ LYNDALL NAPOLES JEANETTE COLLIER MIKE WHITE SHANNON VERDEYEN

EDITORIAL BILL LAIR ALLISON PETTY ROB STROuD PHOTOGRAPHY JIM BOWLING JIM FINCH KEVIN KILHOFFER CARLOS T. MIRANDA LISA MORRISON B. MOSHER DAVID PROEBER KEN TREVARTHAN

Getaway Guide to Central Illinois is published by the Journal Gazette/Times-Courier Address: 700 Broadway Avenue East, Suite 9A, Mattoon, IL 61938 www.jg-tc.com Phone: (217) 235-5656 Fax: (217) 238-6886 Advertising e-mail: advertising@jg-tc.com Newsroom e-mail: editorial@jg-tc.com

ADVERTISER INDEX BY TOWN Arcola 23-26 Arthur 16-20, 63 Bloomington/Normal 39-52 Casey 34-35 Charleston 13,14 Decatur 28-30

4 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

Effingham 2 Effingham 32-33 Greenup 37 Greenville 5 Marshall 38 Mattoon 8-11

Monticello 54-55 Neoga 12 Sullivan 59-61 Tuscola 56-57 Vandalia 3

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

GreenvilleIllinois.com 844.404.9272

Classic Americana

Proud Rural Heritage

Celebrating 200 years of community history!

From farm to table...

Downtown Square Classic Car Shows Sears Kit Home Tour DeMoulin Museum

Farm Heritage Museum Orchards & Tree Farms Marcoot Jersey Creamery Wineries

Outdoor Adventure

Get back to nature.

Lake Sports Nature Preserve Hiking Trails Country Roads for Biking

World-Class FineArts

Find unexpected treasures!

William K. Bock Museum College Art Gallery Handel’s Messiah and Other Performances Factory Theatre Productions Fall ArtWalk

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 5

KEVIN KILHOFFER, JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER‌

The trail system at Lake Charleston is among many in Central Illinois that offers beautiful views for hikers.

HIT THE TRAIL Central Illinois trails invite hikers to explore earlier times

‌I

BY SARAH MILLER

t’s no secret that a large amount of the Central Illinois landscape consists of farm fields planted with rows and rows of corn and soybeans. But throughout the region, hidden treasures beckon hikers to explore the land as it was during an earlier time. As opposed to hiking trails that follow untouched natural landscapes, these hiking trails have been created with a specific purpose in mind and offer much more than an average hiking experience.

6 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

CLAY JACKSON, HERALD & REVIEW‌

Debbie Kiick, left, and her husband Brad Kiick ride their bikes on a trail at Fairview Park in Decatur.

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

Lincoln Memorial Garden‌

While popular historic sites such as the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, and Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site offer visitors to Springfield a glimpse into the life Abraham Lincoln, a living memorial to the 16th president lies along the south banks of Lake Springfield.

Lincoln Memorial Garden recreates the natural landscape that existed during Lincoln’s lifetime. Harriet Knudson, a local civic leader in Springfield during the 1930s, spearheaded the creation of the garden. She envisioned a natural space comprised of prairie grasses, wildflowers, shrubs and trees native to Kentucky, Indiana and Illinois, the three Midwestern states that Lincoln called home.

Today, visitors to the 100acre site can explore prairie, woodland and wetland ecosystems while hiking six miles of interconnected trails. All less than a mile in length, the trails are easy to navigate and dotted with benches inscribed with Lincoln quotes.

A nature center houses educational displays and hosts many of the Garden’s workshops, seminars and children’s educational programs. Public events are held throughout the year including wildflower, migrating bird and leaf identification hikes.

Want to Go? Address: 2301 East Lake Shore Drive, Springfield Website: www.lincolnsmemorialgarden.org Phone: 217-529-1111 Trails Hours: Sunrise to sunset year-round

Allerton Park‌

Allerton Park was originally the home of Robert Allerton, an artist, art collector, garden designer and philanthropist.

From 1900 until 1946, Allerton and his son John Gregg JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

KEVIN KILHOFFER, JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER‌

Lake Charleston’s trail system accommodates hikers and bikers, families and fishermen, and more.

Allerton built numerous structures, designed several formal gardens and acquired statues and sculptures from around the world to display on their estate near Monticello. After a longstanding relationship with the University of Illinois, Robert Allerton gifted the property to the university in 1946 when he moved his family to Hawaii.

Although known for its formal gardens and stately mansion, Allerton Park offers unique hiking experiences throughout the 1,500acre park. Designated as one of the Seven Wonders of Illinois, over 14 miles of hiking trails encourage visitors to explore the park’s natural landscape along with many of its remarkable structures, sculptures and gardens.

Five of the seven trails are over two miles in length and wind through a variety of natural landscapes. Hikers encounter the Sangamon River floodplains, lowland forests, oak-hickory forests, meadows and a 30-acre demonstration prairie. Many of the trails intertwine with shortcuts leading back to the trailheads.

The shorter trails focus on the park’s popular sites — the Fu Dog Garden and the Sun Singer statue. At just over a mile in length, the Or-

Want to Go? Address: 515 Old Timber Road, Monticello Website: allerton.illinois. edu Phone: 217-333-3287 Trail Hours: 8 a.m. to sunset year-round ange Trail begins at the main visitor parking lot and travels through bottomland forests and past the Goldfish pond before arriving at the Fu Dog Garden. Twenty-two porce-

lain Fu Dog statues perched atop concrete pillars line each side of the formal garden. The trail continues past a large tower known as the House of Golden Buddhas and through the Vine Walk before returning to the main parking area.

Less than a mile in length, the Purple Trail provides impressive views of the Sun Singer statue, a towering 15foot tall bronze sculpture.

From the trailhead at Sun Singer Meadow, the Purple Trail hugs the edge of the meadow before meandering through the woods.

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GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 7

Shop These Fine Stores J.C. Penney Christopher & Banks The Shoe Dept.

Journal Gazette/Times-Courier Carson’s Pro Nails General Nutrition Center Claire’s Boutique Payless Shoes Jumbo Buffet Bath & Body Works maurices Alamo Steak House Taco Bell H & R Block Community Blood Services Mattoon Medical Center TitleMax rue21 Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store Grinders Gourmet Cafe

47Years Working With The Community 1971-2017

See Our Upcoming Events at www.crosscountymall.com Cross County Mall Is Conveniently Located at 700 Broadway East in Mattoon With Easy Access From I-57 On Rt.16, Exit West to 3rd Stop light, Mall on North Side Mall Hours: Monday-Satur Monday-Saturday 10am - 9pm Sunday Noon - 5 pm Some stor stores have extended hours.

Cross County Mall Gift Cer Certificates are available for any occasion.

8 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

MIA MASTANDREA, FOR THE JG-TC‌

Kendall Holtzhouser, 9, spends time at Douglas-Hart Nature Center near Mattoon.

Douglas-Hart Nature Center‌

Douglas-Hart Nature Center is an example of how land once used for farming can be reclaimed and restored to its native state. Since the 1960s, stewards of the Douglas-Hart Foundation, formed by Helen Douglas-Hart, have transformed a former farm into a natural space that depicts native habitats of east central Illinois.

Although surrounded by agricultural farmland, Douglas-Hart Nature Center encompasses over 70 acres consisting of native prairie, wetland, pond and woodland habitats. The preserve’s two miles of trails wind from the South Prairie to the North Prairie and branch out to the edge of the Wetlands on the west side of the property.

The trailheads begin at the Visitor Center, and handmade signs direct hikers to the site’s attractions. The Butterfly Garden, Dragonfly Pond and

Want to Go? Address: 2204 DeWitt Avenue East, Mattoon Website: www.dhnature. org Phone: 217-235-4644 Trail Hours: Sunrise to Sunset year-round Bird Garden are the first natural areas to explore as they wrap around from the building’s entrance to the wildlife viewing area on the opposite side. Once on the trails, other natural attractions include a Bog Garden, Wetlands Overlook, a Natural Play Area and the Outdoor Classroom.

Numerous seasonal events and educational programs for children and adults are held throughout the year. Youth summer camps are extremely popular and often lead to new attractions such as fairy gardens and “bear” traps along the trails.

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

CENTRAL ILLINOIS HIKING TRAILS ‌It’s the climb. Fifteen great places in Illinois to hike hills, climb mountains, explore caves and see amazing bluffs, cliffs and waterfalls. Whether you are in Carbondale, Chicago, Peoria, Rockford or Springfield; here are scenic parks and forests that offer elevation and beautiful vistas.

There are wheel-friendly trails at some of the parks and forests.

Parks and forests allow pets so look for signs at the park, because they may need to be on a leash. Sometimes bad weather occurs and trails are closed, so check before you travel.

Grab your gear and get ready to hit the trail. Here is a list of places to visit: Apple River Canyon State Park‌

Activities: camping,

fishing,hiking (five trails), sledding, stargazing Location: Apple River Lodging: campsites in Canyon Ridge camping area What to see: canyon, limestone bluffs, River, historic Galena, and the park is a popular location for astronomers

Buffalo Rock State Park‌

Activities: camping, hiking

(two trails), fishing

Location: Ottawa Lodging: campsites at the

park What to see: Illinois River;

Effigy Tumuli mound sculptures; sandstone bluffs, and nearby Illinois Waterway Visitors Center for information, great waterfowl photographs.

Pecumsaugan Creek-Blackball Mines is located near it, with dolomite cliffs; there are tours of the mine with a large bat colony.

OuR cOnfEREncE cEntER (capable of seating up to 450 people)

OuR indOOR swiMMing pOOl (the largest pool at any hotel in Mattoon)

OuR nEw hOt BREAkfAst

(including waffles, bacon, eggs, sausage, and biscuits and gravy)

we are locally owned and operated. we are the closest hotel to peterson park and the softball complex.

PARt OF thE LOCAL MAttOON COMMuNIty FOR OvER 65 yEARS! Phone 234-8122

The Burger king

Junior Burger........................1.29 Jr. Cheeseburger...................1.41 Hamburger ...........................1.74 Cheeseburger .......................1.99 Double Burger ......................2.74 Double Cheeseburger ...........2.99 Triple Burger .........................4.74 Triple Cheeseburger..............4.99 Hooter ..................................3.49 Double Hooter.......................5.49 Pork Tenderloin .....................2.79 Fish Sandwich ......................3.79 BLT .......................................2.49 Grilled Cheese ......................1.99 Crispy Chicken......................3.99 Grilled Chicken .....................3.99 Add Bacon ...............................60 Add Cheese .............................25 Pronto Pup............................1.99 Hot Dog ................................1.99 Chicken Tenders (3) ..............3.19 Chicken Tenders (5) ..............4.49

Cheeseburger Family Pack 9.99 4 Cheeseburgers and 1 pound of Flies Double Cheeseburger Family Pack 13.99 4 Double Cheeseburgers and 1 Pound of Fries

Kids Menu 3.99 Comes with Fries 1 2 oz. Drink &. Toy Grilled Cheese 2 Chicken Strips Hot Dog Pronto Pup Junior Burger

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

1500 Charleston Ave. Mattoon, 1L 61938

Make any item a Combo Regular- Add 2.00 16 oz. Drink and Regular Fry Large- Add 3.00 32 oz. Prink and Large Fry

Make-It Moo! Substitute a milkshake for a drink 1.00 Extra

SIDES Regular Fry ...................... 1.39 Large Fry ......................... 1.89 One Pound of Fries........... 3.49 Mushrooms ..................... 3.49 Regular Onion Rings ........ 2.99 Large Onion Rings ........... 3.99 DRINKS Kids .....................................89 Regular................................99 Medium ............................1.29 Large................................1.49 Add vanilla....................... Free Add cherry....................... Free Milk ................................... .99 Regular Coffee................... .99 Large Coffee .................... 1.49

Reservations: 217-234-8600 300 Broadway Avenue East, Mattoon

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 9

STATE PARKS

With its sandstone canyons, seasonal waterfalls, historic lodge and the Illinois River forming part of its border, Starved Rock State Park in northcentral Illinois tends to get a lot of attention – and understandably so.

The park, across the river from Utica, not far from interstates 39 and 80, is among the most visited parks in the state.

of 158-acre Dawson Lake, which has a beach/swimming area in THE PANTAGRAPH, David Proeber addition to fishing and boating.

Paige Cooper, Amelia Creech, Addison Creech, and Mattie Cooper, Dawson Lake. Moraine View State Park.

The camping facilities include backpacking and equestrian It offers 13 miles of marked might need a rest if you climb The old Union School, built in camping areas. A self-guided hiking trails, camping and boat 1865 and used as a school for 80 the 144 steps to the Eagle’s Nest nature trail is part of the hiking ramps with access to the Illinois years, continues its educational observation deck. The park River. The trails lead to several trail system. function as an interpretive center also offers picnicking, camping, tall overlooks with names such Clinton Lake State with “hands-on” learning. The fishing and boating. as Eagle Cliff, Lovers Leap and Recreation Area schoolhouse trail includes 80 namesake Starved Rock.

Lincoln Trail Three miles east of Clinton, bluebird houses and surrounds The visitors’ center has displays the 9,300-acre site is operated a prairie undergoing restoration, State Park Boating, fishing, camping and about the area’s history and under a long-term lease with which attracts butterflies and hiking are available at Lincoln frequently offers programs and Exelon Nuclear, which operates dragonflies.

Trail, two miles south of guided hikes. a nearby nuclear power Walnut Point State Park Marshall. Outboard motors are plant.

The site has a beach, Its sister park immediately to Boating is limited to boats limited to 10 horsepower. swimming, boating, fishing, the south, Matthiessen State with electric trolling motors hiking, picnicking, camping and Park, has hiking and equestrian/ Sam Parr Fish & only at this park 20 miles east equestrian trails. Although the mountain biking trails. Hikers of Charleston.

Fishing, hiking Wildlife Area can explore a deep canyon with lake attracts the most attention, and camping are among other The lake at Sam Parr is limited the miles of hiking trails are a creek fed by Matthiessen Lake, activities. to boats with motors of 10 another way to view the area. which feeds into the Vermilion horsepower or less and is The 9.3-mile North Fork Trail is Eagle Creek State River. popular with canoe paddlers. particularly challenging, rising Recreation Area and There are 13 miles of equestrian East-central Illinois has a and falling steeply through Wolf Creek State Park trails in addition to hiking trails, fair share of state parks and ravines and heavily wooded Located near Lake Shelbyville, picnic shelters and campsites. natural areas offering a variety areas.

Wolf Creek is eight miles east of Fishing is also allowed. The of activities, from boating and Windsor and Eagle Creek is four site is three miles northeast of fishing to camping and hiking as Weldon Springs miles east of Findley. In addition Newton. well as horseback riding.

State Park Just southeast of Clinton, the park to boating and fishing on the On the Net: Moraine View State 11,000-acre lake, the sites have offers boating (electric motors http://dnr.state.il.us/lands/land Recreation Area only), fishing, hiking and camping, hiking, picnicking, camping and mgt/parks/ This site near LeRoy is the home including a few backpacking sites. equestrian trails.

Contact Lenore Sobota at Hidden Springs lsobota@pantagraph.com or 309-820-3240.

State Forest Ten miles southeast of Shelbyville, Hidden Springs offers picnicking, camping, fishing and hiking. There are access trails to Rocky Spring and Quicksand Spring.

Fox Ridge State Park

Herald & Review, Jim Bowling Competitors and attendees stand for the playing of the National Anthem before the start of the first day of the Bassmaster’s Evan Williams Bourbon All-Star Championship at Eagle Creek State Park on Lake Shelbyville.

10 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

This park, eight miles south of Charleston, is known for its rugged, scenic hiking trails – some of which are steep – along the Embarras River. There are 18 picturesque wooded bridge and numerous rest benches. You

The Pantagraph, Carlos T. Miranda Lenny Glaub, of LeRoy, fixes the bib on one of his dogs while out on Dawson Lake at Moraine View State Park near LeRoy.

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

Central Illinois

RACE TRACKS Charleston Speedway

This dirt oval, three-eighths of a mile in length, has three UMP-sanctioned classes (Modified, Street Stock and Hornet), in addition to several other part-time offerings (Pure Stock and Sprint, to name two). The season kicks off in April and ends in September. A number of national champions have raced here, including Denny Schwartz, Jeff Leka and Jason Feger. The track is located between Charleston and Ashmore on Illinois 16.

Contact: (217) 345-2929

way for five different classes (Multi, Non-Wing, Restrictor, Sportsman and Junior Sprint) at the beginning of May. Three national championships have taken place here in the past half century and the club is currently affiliated with the 600 Micro Sprint USA organization. The is located between Mattoon Coles County Speedway track and Charleston on Illinois 316.

Known as the oldest micro sprint Contact: (217) 348-8035 race track in the U.S., the Coles www.ccmmra.com County Modified Midget Racing Association’s season gets under

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Grill & Chill Locations 320 N. 19th 913 Charleston Ave.

234-3644 235-0911 JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

217-234-4267 mattoon.hamptoninn.com

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 11

for the Street Legal series, which runs on Fridays throughout the summer.

The Dragway is located on Illinois 316 between Mattoon and Charleston.

Contact: (217) 345-7777: www.colescountydragwayusa.com

Coles County Dragway

Lincoln Trail Motosports

Used as a popular recreational facility as well Voted by the NHRA as the as a competitive one, LTM Track of the Year in the has the longest calendar North Central Division for year of any area track, both 2007 and 2008, the starting in February and dragstrip maintains a busy ending near Halloween. schedule from March until Two- and four-wheeled November. Elapsed time bikes and off-road vehicles bracket racing is featured in motocross on an eighth-mile strip, with compete and hare scramble events, dragsters, junior dragsters, mostly during two-day motorcycles and street cars weekends. The Illini Super competing alike. It is also Series brings together riders home of one of the area’s marquee events, Thunder on the Prairie, which takes place every June. Top drivers vie to reach the region finals in Indianapolis and eventually the NHRA nationals in Pomona, Calif.

For a $10 fee, anyone can bring a car to the track

from different tracks for a seasonending points race.

The track is west of Casey, just off U.S. 40. Contact: (217) 932-2041 Online: www.lincolntrailmotosports.com

Fairbury American Legion Speedway

¼-mile Location: Third Street at Route 24, Fairbury Phone: (309) 532-7862 Racing every Saturday night: Late Models, Modifieds, Sportsman, Street Stocks

Farmer City Raceway

Macon Speedway

1/5-mile.

Location: 9 miles south of Decatur off US 51 Phone: (217) 764-3000 Racing every Saturday night: Late Models, Modifieds, Sportsman, Street Stocks, 4-cylinder Compacts.

Key Late Model Dates: UMP Summer Nationals, $5,000-to-win main event.

Peoria Speedway

¼-mile Location: 3520 W. Farmington Road, Peoria.

Contact: (309) 357-3339

¼-mile Location: Highway 150, Farmer City

Lincoln Speedway

¼-mile Location: Logan County Fairgrounds, 11th and Jefferson, Lincoln. Contact: (217) 899-3727 Racing every Friday night: Pro Late Models, Modifieds, Street Stocks, 4-cylinder Compacts.

Racing every Saturday night: Late Models, Modifieds, Steel Block Late Models, Street Stocks, 4-cylinder Compacts, Lightning Sprints.

Castle Rock State Park‌

Activities: boating, camp-

We’re only minutes from the lake!

Full service pharmacy

ing, fishing, hiking (six trails), hunting Location: Oregon Lodging: campsites at park What to see: Castle Rock, Rock River, St. Peter sandstone cliffs, Rock River, and a 50foot statute dedicated to Chief Black Hawk in nearby Lowden Memorial State Park

Cave in the Rock State Park‌

Activities: boating, camping,

fishing, hiking (two trails)

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596 S Oak St, Neoga, IL 217-895-2238 | savmorneoga@gmail.com 12 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

Location: Cave-in-Rock-Lodg-

ing: cabins, camp and RV sites

What to see: fifty-five foot

cave, bluffs, and ferry boat rides on the Ohio River

Dixon Springs State Park‌

Activities: camping, hiking

(two trails), swimming Location: Golconda Lodging: camp and RV sites What to see: Illinois Ozark Mountains, mineral springs, Album Rock, Alligator Rock, Lover’s Leap, Pluto’s Cave, and Glen Lake

Ferne Clyffe State Park‌

Activities: camping, fishing,

PENNY WEAVER, JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER‌

Bass fishing is just one activity that can be enjoyed near many hiking trails in Central Illinois. hiking (ten trails), hunting, rock climbing Location: Goreville Lodging: camp sites What to see: Hawk’s Cave, Rocky Hollow, waterfalls, Crab Orchard Wildlife Refuge, and Little Grassy Lake

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

Lincoln Log Cabin makes clothing in annual event JG-TC STAFF

‌ ERNA — A variety L of activities are featured each year at the “Sheep to Clothing” event at Lincoln Log Cabin.

How wool from sheep was made into clothing in the mid-19th century is the focus.

Sheep shearing, washing and drying out wool, carding and teasing wool for spinning, spinning it into yarn, and color dying are highlighted.

The art of color dying was offered one year by Lee and Carol Shafer of Athens.

“It seems like we have a knowledge base that people aren’t familiar with,” said Mr. Shafer, who works for the state of Illinois and is also a regular volunteer at another state historic site, New Salem.

The process of color dying in the mid-19th century was dependent on many factors.

Shafer recreated the process and said the outcome of colors is dependent on many

variables including the water, the temperature, the mordant and type of kettle.

“I’ve been doing it enough I can get the same (desired) colors just about every time,” he said.

Shafer’s favorite dying item is a parasitic insect known as cochineal. It is found on the prickly pear cactus primarily in the southwest, he said.

He said he has bought cochineal for as little as $15 a pound and as much as $99.

Cochineal is used in seeking out colors such as pinks to reds to lavender working toward the violets.

Other items can be used to get a variety of colors as well including onion skins, osage and tulip and poplar leaves.

He said he sometimes uses shavings from fence posts.

The degree of darkness of the colors is determined by how long he cooks the dye material. For example, if he is wanting a woven rug to be a

DAVE FOPAY, JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER‌

Alex Stromberg does the shearing while Joe Gutierrez keeps the sheep in place at Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site’s annual ‘Sheep to Clothing’. burnt orange color, he said he will have to cook it longer.

“It’s a wonderful hobby,” said Mr. Shafer. “It becomes almost addictive. It doesn’t matter your age.”

At the event one year, Mr. Shafer had the assistance of Katie Stovall, 14, of

m ing history progra Experience the liv ic or st Hi e at bin St at Lincoln Log Ca h October Site May throug

Bridgeport. This was the second year Stovall helped.

“It’s just like chemistry,” she said. “Throw different stuff together and see what happens,” she said.

Mattoon residents Steve and Janis Walk brought their grandson, Griffin, to the historical site for the event when he was 4. It was his first time visiting Lincoln Log Cabin.

“We came here to show our grandson Griffin what it was like to grow up years ago without electricity,” said Mrs. Walk.

Griffin said his favorite part of the day was “feeding the pigs.”

Lincoln Log Cabin is located seven miles south of Charleston or 15 miles from Mattoon and features the homestead of Abraham Lincoln’s father and stepmother, Thomas Lincoln and Sarah Bush Lincoln.

We are looking forward to seeing you out on the farm, eight miles south of Charleston, Illinois, unt il then be sure to follow us on Facebo ok.

Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site, 402 S. Lincoln Highway Road, Lerna, IL 62440 the year long, check Special events all site b we e th at ts calender of even bin.org www.lincolnlogca 1845 534 or call 217-

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

This ad sponsored by Lincoln Log Cabin Foundation and Charleston Tourism

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 13

camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, hunting Location: Grafton Lodging: cabins, camp and RV sites, lodge What to see: Illinois River, bald eagles, River Road

Red Hills State Park‌

Activities: boating, camping,

fishing, hiking (four trails), horseback riding, hunting Location: Summer Lodging: camp and RV sites What to see: Chauncey Marsh, Red Hill, and Red Hills Lake

Shawnee National Forest‌

Activities: biking, boating,

PENNY WEAVER, JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER‌

Scenic views are common in Shelbyville along the General Dacey Trail at Lake Shelbyville in Central Illinois.

Giant City State Park‌ Activities: boating, camping,

fishing, hiking, horseback riding, hunting, rock climbing Location: Makanda, Lodging: cabins, camp sites, horse camping, lodge, RV sites What to see: giant sandstone cliffs that it was named for, Devil’s Kitchen, Little Grassy

Lake and Crab Orchard Lake

Hidden Springs State Forest‌ Activities: camping, fishing,

hiking (three trails), hunting Location: Strasburg Lodging: camp sites What to see: Lake Shelbyville, Park Pond, Richland Creek, Chautauqua Auditorium, Gen-

Full Service Hotel

* Restaurant * Lounge * Banquet Facilities * Renovated Executive rooms * Complimentary hot & cold breakfast * Free WiFi * Outdoor seasonal heated pool * Fitness Center * Discounts, Group rates

eral Dacey Trail and Memorial Sunken Garden

Matthiessen State Park‌

Activities: boating, fishing,

hiking horseback riding, model airplane flying Location: Utica Lodging: none at park What to see: Upper and Lower Dells, waterfalls, Vermillion River and a golf course

Mississippi Palisades State Park‌

Activities: boating, camping,

* Sunday brunch buffet

fishing, hiking (five trails), hunting, rock climbing Location: Savanna Lodging: camp and RV sites What to see: Mississippi River, Ozzies Point, Louis Point, and Mt. Carroll Historic District

* Outdoor patio dining with firepit

Activities: biking, boating,

* Upscale-casual lunch & dinner dining experience

Pere Marquette State Park‌

camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, hunting, rock climbing, and swimming Location: Harrisburg Lodging: camp sites What to see: Just a few include the Illinois Ozarks Mountains, Little Grand Canyon, Burden Falls Wilderness, Pounds Hollow Lake, Ox-Lot Cave and Garden of the Gods

Starved Rock State Park‌

Activities: boating, camping,

fishing, hiking (twelve trails), horseback riding, hunting Location: Utica Lodging: cabins, camp and RV sites, lodge What to see: Starved Rock, Illinois River, waterfalls, and six canyons

Trail of Tears State Forest‌

Activities: camping, hiking,

horseback riding, hunting

Location: Jonesboro Lodging: camp and RV sites What to see: Ozark Hills Na-

ture Preserve and Southern Illinois Wine Trail

* Ultra-sleek lounge

BAR & GRILL

920 W Lincoln, Charleston

www.uniquesuiteshotel.com

217*348*8161

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14 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

SUBMITTED PHOTO‌

Located in rural Strasburg, Hidden Springs State Park includes 1,200 acres of hiking trails, picnic areas and fishing.

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

HOOKS

Lines & Sinkers

Illinois has lots of lakes, rivers, channels and ponds filled with all sorts of fish and water-based critters. Here are some of the bigger and best ones.

Evergreen Lake & State Park

Lake Taylorville

Newton Lake

Spring Lake & Park

Fishing, Boating, Camping Cabin Rental 101 Sweeney Dr. Taylorville, IL Visitor Center: (217) 824-5606

Fishing, Boating, Camping, Hunting, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Trails 3490 E. 500th Newton, IL Visitor Center: (217) 258-8559

Fishing, Boating, Camping, Hunting, Hiking, Biking, Facilities 7982 South Park Road Manito, IL (309) 968-7135

Lake Bloomington

Lake Decatur

Lake Shelbyville

Clinton Lake

Fishing, Boating, Camping, Parks Bloomington, IL

Fishing, Boating

Fishing, Boating, Camping, Hunting, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Biking Trails, Golfing, 925 IL-32 Sullivan, IL (217) 774-2244

Fishing, Boating, Camping 7251 Ranger Road Dewitt IL (217) 935-6860

Fishing, Boating, Camping, Hunting 13001 Recreation Area Dr. Hudson, IL Visitor Center: (309) 434-6770

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 15

Lake Springfield Fishing, Boating, Rentals 17 Waters Edge Boulevard Springfield IL Marina: (217) 483-3625

Coffeen Lake Fishing, Boating, Hunting 15084 N. 4th Ave. Coffeen, IL (217) 537-3351

Sangchris Lake & Park Fishing, Boating, Camping, Trails, Hunting, Metal Detecting, Shelter Reservations 9898 Cascade Rd. Rochester, IL (217) 498-9208

located in downtown Arthur Primitives, Glassware, Feed Sacks, Crocks Antique Furniture Farm Collectibles Griswold and Wagner cast iron Specializing in old Aladdin and traditional oil lamps LP and Natural Gas lights Lamp Repair & Service Open: Monday - Saturday 8:30 am - 5 pm 214 South Vine St. - Arthur, IL 61911 Phone: 217- 543-2108 Fax: 217-543-2110 16 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

Over 3,000 bolts of high quality fabrics at low prices!

Quilting Classes Custom Machine Quilting Pre-Stamped Embroidery Blocks

Stitch & Sew Fabrics Fabric • NotioNs • QuiltiNg supplies

220 S. Vine • Arthur, IL • Mon-Sat. 8:30 - 5:00 stitchandsew@consolidated.net

217-543-2287 1-888-502-2287 217-543-2287 oror 1-888-502-2287 JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

BEACHES & POOLS BEACHES‌

Dam West Recreation Area (9th St) in Shelbyville Sullivan Beach Located just outside of Sullivan Wilborn Creek Recreation Area Near Kirksville Wolf Creek State Park Near Windsor; this is also a high water beach.

Fees at COE are $1 per person, up to $4 per vehicle. Hours are 8 am to Dusk. No fees for children under 16 years of age or USACE campers. Fees at the State Park are $1 per person. Open from 8 am to Sunset. COE Annual passes are available for $30 at the office, Dam East Recreation Area during office hours.

POOLS‌

Rotary Community Aquatic Center 920 17th St., Charleston. Phone

(217) 345-3233.

Lytle Pool 3298 Cedar Ave., Mattoon.

Hours: Monday-Sunday 11:30 a.m.

7:45 p.m. (weather permitting).

Our season follows the local school schedule; we open shortly after the last day of class in the spring and close for the season when student return to class in the fall.

A youngster shows off his diving form at Lytle Pool in Mattoon.

KEVIN KILHOFFER, JG-TC‌

Stop in and Stroll through our

Decatur Athletic Club 1010 W. Southside Dr. This sports center offers 25 yards, 3 lanes, Indoor/Outdoor.

MAny TreASureS

Urbana Indoor Aquatic Center 102 E. Michigan

•F Fresh flowers • Green plants • Silk ar arrangements • Balloons • Gift items • Je Jewelry •F Fannie May candy • Home and garden Décor’

YMCA Pools Paris YMCA 109 E. Madison St. Mattoon Area Family YMCA 221 N. 16th St. , Mattoon Danville Family YMCA 1111 N. Vermilion St. Champaign County YMCA Fitness and Family Center 707 N. Country Fair Drive Clinton Community YMCA 417 S. Alexander St. , Clinton Greater Decatur Y 220 West McKinley Drive

Arthur Flower Shop Ar

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GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 17

AMISH-RELATED BUSINESSES BILL LAIR For the JG-TC‌

‌While the Amish are “separated” from much of society through lifestyles, they are accomplished farmers, craftsmen and entrepreneurs.

In Douglas County, mostly near Arthur or between Arthur and Arcola, the local Amish community members have a number of successful businesses with services and products available to all.

Most of their businesses are open six days a week. A word of caution for weekend visitors, however.

All Amish-owned businesses are closed on Sundays.

For maps of the locations of “Amish Country” businesses, visitors are encouraged to visit the Arcola Depot Tourist Office at 135 N. Oak St., adjacent to the railroad tracks in Arcola, and at

the Arthur Tourist and Welcome Center at 106 E. Progress St. in downtown Arthur.

Some of the kinds of Amishowned businesses in the ArthurArcola area include (all roads are in Douglas County unless otherwise stated): Meal in an Amish Home‌ Kitchen of Doris Yoder, west of Arthur and on the south side of Illinois Route 133 Vera’s Meals, south of Arthur on the south side of Springfield Road Furniture‌ A.D. Miller Woodworking & Furniture Country Workshop, north of Arthur on County Road 125E Das HolzHaus Furniture, northeast of Arthur on County Road 325E Kaufman’s Custom Wood Interiors, northeast of Arthur

on County Road 650N

County Road 1600E

Miller’s Custom Woodwork-

Melvin’s Buggy Shop, south

ing, northwest of Arcola on County Road 300N Pineview Woodworking & Interior, south of Arthur on County Road 200N Plank and Sons Woodworking, west of Arcola on Illinois Route 133 Greenhouse/Orchards/Produce‌ Countryside Greenhouse, southeast of Arthur on County Road 200E Shady Crest Farm Market, south of Arthur on the Douglas-Moultrie counties line Springfield Road Greenhouse, south of Arthur on Springfield Road (County Road 200N) Harness/Buggy/Horseshoes/ Saddles‌ Chester Creek Harness, south of Chesterville on County Road 425E Edgewood Buggy Shop, st of Arcola on Springfield Road Hostetler’s Harness Shop, west of Arthur on Moultrie

of Arthur on Coles County Road 1800N Miller’s Harness, east of Arthur and on County Road 100E and north of Illinois Route of 133 Schrock’s Horseshoeing, southwest of Arcola on County Road 450E Yoder’s Harness, west of Arcola on County Road 575E Kitchen cabinets‌ Helmuth Custom Kitchens, south of Arthur on the Moultrie-Douglas counties line Kaufman Custom Cabinets, west of Arcola on Springfield Road Kenrose Kitchen Cabinets, west of Arcola on County Road 300N Plank’s Cabinet Shop, west of Arthur on Illinois Route 133 Yoder’s Cabinet Shop, south of Arthur on Moultrie County Road 2000N Quilts‌ Kuntry Quilt Shop, west of Arcola on County Road 300N

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JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

Specialty businesses‌

Barb’s Jams & Jellies, west

of Arcola on County Road 525E and south of Springfield Road Central Illinois Draft Horse, west of Arcola on County Road 575E and north of Springfield Road Das Schlacht Haus, southwest of Arthur on County Road 1900N Ervin’s Cabinet Shop, west of Arcola on County Road 425E and north of Springfield Road FD Miller Feed Co., south of Arthur on County Road 250N and east of the Moultrie-Douglas counties line Helmuth Custom Lathing, south of Arthur on Coles County Road 1900N Plank’s Apple Butter, west of Arcola on County Road 525E and south of Springfield Road Stutzman Feed Mill, south of Arthur on County Road 250N

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

Specialty farms‌

Green Meadow Farm, south

of Arthur on County Road 200N Sunlit Pasture Farm, west of Arcola on County Road 100N, near County Road 425E Swarn Tree Honey Farm, west of Arcola on County Road 300N, near County Road 425E Bakeries‌ Homestead Bakery, south of Arthur on Moultrie County Road 1900N Rise and Shine Bakery, west of Arcola on Springfield Road Woodworking‌ Gingerich’s Woodcraft, west of Arcola on County Road 300N, near County Road 575E Herschberger’s Woodworking, east of Arthur on County Road 300N Kaufman’s Custom Wood Interiors, northeast of Arthur on County Road 650N Melvin’s Woodworking, south

of Arthur on County Road 100N O&I Woodworking, south of Arthur on County Road 050N Schrock’s Saw Mill, southwest of Arcola on County Road 400E and south of County Road 100N Schrock’s Wood Shed, east of Arthur on Illinois Route 133 Sturzman’s Wood Craft, east of Arthur on County Road 400E and north of County Road 400N Wedge Woodworking, south of Arthur on County Road 240N and west of County Road 200E Willow Tree Woodworking, west of Arcola on County Road 300N D&M Woodcraft, west of Arcola on County Road 425E and south of Springfield Road Little Creek Woodworking, south of Arthur on Moultrie County Road 1800N and west of the Moultrie-Douglas counties line

Horse team hauls historic Amish home for museum

Illinois Amish Museum and Heritage Center to open this summer TONY REID tony.reid@lee.net‌

ARTHUR — Amish history, ‌ propelled by horsepower, set off toward the future last September.

A team of eight hulking Belgian plow horses was hitched up to a trailer and, after a couple of false starts, began moving the circa-1866 Moses Yoder farmhouse at a surprisingly brisk clipclop.

“This is my first house pull,” said Amish farmer Eldon Schrock,

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 19

who helped supply the horses while his farming assistant Steven Hostetler controlled the reins. “But it’s not our first rodeo,” added Hostetler, who made handling the straining equine muscle look easy.

The horses only towed the two-story wood house a symbolic distance across the big parking lot near Yoder’s Kitchen restaurant, creating an appropriate and poignant photo-op, before the more concentrated horsepower of a diesel truck took over. And trucks from Farmington-based Balagna House Moving, Inc. were also on hand right behind the Yoder farmhouse to move the Daniel Schrock House, another two-story farmhouse that dates from 1882.

Both buildings, with police escort, were beginning a three mile, hour-long journey to a site carved out of farm fields west of Chesterville where they will form part of the new Illinois Amish Museum and Heritage Center. Due to be up and running by the summer of 2017, its purpose is to showcase and preserve an island in time of Amish farm history and culture from yesteryear.

Ervin Yoder is the greatgreat-grandson of Moses Yoder and was born in the farmhouse, billed as the oldest Amish home in Illinois. A successful businessman who is now a member of the Men-

nonite Church, he says both houses will be restored to their 19th century prime and offer visitors a window into a culture that fights change but cannot always resist it.

“Amish live the old-fashioned way and live a simple life,” says Yoder, 80. “But it’s not near as simple as it was when I was very young.”

Yoder is vice-president of the Illinois Amish Preservation Foundation board of directors, which is creating the new museum and heritage center. He says the farmhouses have sat in storage since 1999, waiting for a permanent location.

They were going to be part of the Rockome Gardens complex until that was taken over and turned into a wildlife park.

Rockome’s transformation also meant an Amish museum and heritage center housed there became homeless, too, and its many artifacts were also put into storage.

The solution and permanent address for everything will be the new museum and heritage center near Chesterville. Sitting on 2.5 acres with the option to acquire more, it will house both farmhouses and a 10,000-square-foot museum building yet to be built. A preserved Amish school, barn and workshop will be among the site’s other attractions in a project that is expected to cost at least $1.5 million.

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M-F 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. • Sat. 7 a.m. - noon Closed Sunday JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 21

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Camp Lakewood‌

1217 W. Rickelman Ave., Effingham, on Lake Pauline; from Interstate 57, take exit 162, turn north (right) on U.S. Route 45 to the traffic light near Pilot Truck Stop.

Turn left at the light on to Rickelman Avenue and go straight for 2 miles, turn left at sign.

62 RV sites, three tent sites, water, cable, electric, sewer, wireless Internet; two cottages; one cabin; playground; lake for fishing.

For reservations call 800-9611198 or 217-342-6233; information also can be found at www. camplakewoodcampground.com.

Casey KOA Kampground‌

Exit 129 at Interstate 70 and U.S. Route 49.

Camper service, hayrides, recreation building, shower house with flush toilets, fishing, ice cream socials, pancake breakfast, bingo and a pool for campers. 80 hookups with water and electricity, 15 of these also include sewer hookup. Three camping cabins and boat rentals available.

Ask about special KOA discounts and group rates by calling 800-562-9113.

JIM BOWLING, HERALD & REVIEW‌

Rachel Klaus reacts while pushing off for her first-ever canoe ride along with Kandrey Cogan, middle, and Hannah Jaggers during a Camp Discovery visit to Rock Springs Conservation Area near Decatur, Illinois. house, hiking trails, pond with bass, bluegill and catfish, sand swimming area on pond, no alcohol allowed, family-oriented, cabins for rent.

Reservations required, no credit cards or debit cards, campsites for rent for $14-$22, call 217346-3385.

Eagle Creek State Park‌

Four miles southeast of Findlay on Lake Shelbyville.

Park hours are dawn to dusk.

163 vehicular campsites, including 148 Class A sites with electricity, picnic tables and showers.

Tent camping area, organized group camping. Sites are regularly $20 and holiday rates are $30. Five marked nature trails, 12-mile trail and 3-mile crosscountry ski trail. Picnic areas, boating, fishing, golf course, woodlands.

For reservations and information call 217-756-8260.

Fox Ridge State Park‌

Seven miles south of Charleston on Illinois Route 130. Park hours 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., office open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. MondayFriday.

12 miles of trails, hilly terrain,

Hidden Springs State Forest‌

LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER, THE PANTAGRAPH

Members of the Bloomington Bible Church were enjoy fun and games in the park after a picnic lunch at Underwood Park. Paul Schmidgall of Bloomington throws a Frisbee around John Haney of LeRoy during a game of Ultimate Frisbee. ‌ picnic shelters and tent and motor home camping sites for $20 a night; holiday rates are $30/ night. All sites have electric, with water available. Shower house with flush toilets.

Call 217-345-6416 for more information or reservations for sites and pavilions. Visa and Mastercard accepted.

22 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

Hebron Hills Camping‌

14349 N. County Road 2350E, Oakland, half-way between Oakland and Ashmore on OaklandAshmore Road.

60 acres for camping, located in the woods, quiet, relaxing; sewer/water/electric hookups, some tent-only areas, shower

Southeast of Shelbyville off Illinois Route 32 about 4 miles.

7 miles of hiking trails, five fishing ponds, archery range and 926 acres for hunting. 28 pads for campers, but no electrical hookups or shower facilities.

Camping $8 per night (Class C site). Water is within walking distance.

More information can be obtained by calling 217-644-3091.

Lake Mattoon Marina and Campground‌

Take U.S. Route 45 to Etna Road, turn west and go to stop sign. Turn left and go 4 miles.

Turn right at sign.

Electric and water at every site, shower/bath houses, playJG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

ground, beach, basketball court, fishing, $20 per night for electric, $15 per night for tent, full marina right next door, with tackle, live minnows, fishing licenses, snacks, gas, etc.

For information call 217-2546680.

Lake Sara Campground‌ 15482 N Wildwood Drive, Effingham, on Lake Sara; from Interstate 57, take exit 160 toward Illinois Route 32/33, turn right on Route 32, left on County Road N. 1000th St., right on County Road E. 1600th Ave., left on Beach Road and right on Wildwood Drive.

Full camper hookup (electricity, water, sewer, cable) $25/night; tent hookup (water/electricity) $20/night.

For reservations and information, call 217-868-2964.

Lincoln Trail State Park‌ Three miles south and 1 mile west of Marshall on Illinois Route 1,146 acres of fishing.

There are more than 1,023 acres in the park. 35 tent sites are available for $8 a night as well as a picnic area; showers are open.

For $20, trailer campers can choose from more than 170 Class A sites with electricity (prices $30/night during holiday weekends). For $10, tent camping is available at 10 non-electric Class B sites. Monday through Thursday, camping for Illinois seniors, 62 and older, is $15. No reservations accepted for dates prior to July 7; go to www.reserveamerica. com to make online reservations

LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER, THE PANTAGRAPH‌

Steve Bury of Chenoa helps Barry Smoots of Normal as they prepare to go fishing last spring on Evergreen Lake near Hudson. Dave Webb of Bloomington, right, brings his boat in after a morning of fishing. with a $5 reservation fee. Bait and boat rental and full-service restaurant (call 217-826-8831).

Phone 217-826-2222 for information.

Mill Creek Park‌

On Clarksville Road east of Westfield, 7 miles northwest of Marshall.

Six cabin units, first is a double unit with upper and lower levels available each three bedrooms for $115 a night or $690 a week for upper and $115 a night or $690 a week for lower. Launch cabin, onebedroom, $90/day $540/week; a cabin with three units, upper level (studio) $65 a night or $400 a week, ground level (handicapped accessible) one-bedroom $90/ night or $540 a week; lower level, 2 bedrooms $110 a night and $660 a week; Hickory Cabin, $50 daily or $290 a week, queen bed and one

Kuntry Treasures Scrapbooking Supplies • Rubber Art Stamps • Cardstock • Punches, Die-Cutting Tools, Etc.

Fabrics And Notions • Wooden Toys • John Deer Toys • Gifts

The Greatest Dot to Dot Books

set of bunk beds. Concession stand available daily beginning at 11 a.m.

139 campsites with water and electricity for $18 and under per night (weekly and monthly rates available). Senior citizen rate available on specified nights. Showers, playground, picnic areas with three shelters, volleyball court, basketball court, soccer field, 5½ miles of nature trails, 15-mile horse and separate ATV trail and horseshoe pits. Fishing and skiing is the main attraction on this 800-acre lake.

Rental boats available, pontoon boats, free fishing pole use from gate house.

For more information, call 217889-3601 or 217-889-3901, or visit the website clarkcountyparkdistrict.com or on Facebook.

Riverfront Campground‌ One mile south of the Lake Shelbyville dam off Illinois Route 16.

Permanent sites only available. Showers, playground, covered pavilion, amphitheatre, on Kaskaskia River.

For more information, call 217774-4442.

Robin Hood Woods‌

East of Lake Shelbyville dam on Illinois Route 16.

200 sites: water and electric $25 a night; water, electric and sewer $28/night. Shower house available. Three rental cottages, fully furnished for $80 a night and log cabins from $80-$140 a night, all nine cabins have satellite. RV parts store, camp store, laundry facilities, large game room, pool and hiking trails, playground, pavilion and stocked fishing pond.

For information, call 217-7744222 or visit the website at www. robinhoodwoods.com.

Morning Song Collections • Housewares • Nothinz • Battery Candles • Primitive Decor

• Rhythm Motion Clocks • Fuller Brush • Stanley • Toys • Gifts

Some pictures have over 1,000 numbers • Ages 8 - 108

Monday-Friday 8-5 Saturday 8-3

Closed On Sunday & Holidays

Rustic Wood Frames We will take 12 X 12 Custom Frame 18 X 24 20 X 27 Orders

In stock Items:

5X7 8 X 10 8 ½ X 11

400 E. Cty Rd. 200 N. Arcola, IL 61910 217-268-5144

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

431 E CR 200 N • Arcola, IL 61910 4 miles west of Arcola 217-268-3677

Hours: Mon-Fri. 8-5 Sat. 8-3

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 23

Sullivan Marina and Campground‌

Across from Sullivan access area beach south of Sullivan on Illinois Route 32.

Full-service marina, small playground, in-ground pool, volleyball court, bank fishing, a marina pump-off. Skeeters, a floating, limited-menu, patio restaurant and lounge. Rental boats available. Efficiency, 700-squarefoot kitchenette suites or lodging.

Shower/restroom. Seasonal nontransient campsites available through Nov. 1; overnight camping. 142 sites with water, electric and sewer $33 per unit per night, 70 sites with water and electric $29 per unit per night, and 25 primitive sites $23 per night per tent.

For more information, call 217728-7338.

Walnut Point State Park‌

From Oakland go 3 miles north. Look for signs.

60-acre fishing lake. Electric motors only on lake. Camping facilities. Electric hook-up avail-

LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER, THE PANTAGRAPH

Bill Anderson of Hudson watches as Martin and Bas Van der Doef, 4, of Chicago ride in one of Anderson’s boats in his collection at Lake Bloomington. Bill and Nancy Anderson open their doors annually for a boat show of their private collection to entertain friends at Lake Bloomington. able. Drinking water, shower facility and dump station available for $20. Tent camping available

at $8. Organized adult groups are $4 per person with $40 minimum and youth groups are $2 per person with a $20 minimum. Picnic areas, pavilions, horseshoe pits, playground equipment and walking trails.

Rowboat rental.

For park information, call 217346-3336.

Wolf Creek State Park‌

Eight miles northwest of Windsor on Lake Shelbyville.

Park hours are from dawn to dusk. 304 Class A campsites with restrooms and showers, electricity and picnic tables.

Two family tent camping areas, an organized group camp, and an equestrian campground.

The sites that include electric-

Yoder’s Homestead Shop 117 E. Main St., Arcola, IL 61910 217-268-3841

ity are $20. Holiday fees are $30 nightly. Rent-a-Cabin program offers one cabin at $45/$55.

Seven hiking trails, as well as snowmobile and equestrian trails; family picnic areas, shelters, woodlands, trails, horseback riding, beach, boating, fishing, more.

For reservations and information call 217-756-8260.

Wood’s Woods‌

Five miles east of Tuscola, 1 mile south off U.S. Route 36.

Open May 1-Nov. 1 with 80 sites for $15 a night. Sevenacre campground is bordered by Embarras River. Pavilion on the grounds.

For more information, call 217253-2487; for reservations, call 217-253-3170.

Calico Workshop 228 South Vine St., Arthur, IL 61911 217-543-2312

www.yodershomesteadfurniture.com

24 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

PENCIL PASSION THE ART OF ANDY MAST

M

ost people use pencils mainly to scribble the grocery list. Not Andy Mast. In the hands of this 25-year-old master, the ordinary instrument becomes an extraordinary tool. Working exclusively with pencil to express “his soul and life experience,” the Westcliffe, Colorado-based artist says his ultimate goal is for the painstaking details in his drawings to offer hope and strength to people who are struggling and suffering.

You might call his mission artistic equine therapy, because his healing subject matter is almost exclusively horses.

The youngest of five siblings, Mast grew up in a traditional Amish community in the rural

southern Illinois working long hours farming fields with the family’s broodmares. (The mares and the family stallion, Zues, are the subjects of many of his drawings.)

“I recall long days in the field, coming in after sundown, and I’d sketch into the night by lantern while the rest of the family was asleep.

Although I was worn out after my day’s work, drawing brought me peace.”

By his teenage years, Mast was entering his drawings in contests — and winning.

Then on a bitterly cold January day when he was 17, Mast suffered a life-changing accident.

“I was alone, leading a horse to pasture, when something happened that I can neither

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remember nor explain. My father discovered me unconscious on top of a mangled steel gate. I had serious head injuries and had to be life-flighted to a hospital in St. Louis.”

He remained in a coma for several days and underwent two surgeries.

“Over the course of the next five years, my health increasingly deteriorated to the point that I was not only incapable of performing any physical labor on the farm but also unable to participate in (Amish) community functions. The worst of it was when I got so weak that I was unable to draw. Until that point, drawing was my solace and sanctuary and the only thing that provided any relief or distraction from my struggle.

But when my drawing was taken from me, I was devastated.”

It was during this very dark period that Mast conceptualized what would become his personal masterpiece and symbolic expression of his battle back to life: A LONG DAY. For the next year and a half — nearly 300 hours — he

worked on it.

“The reason this scene moved me was because of all the darkness that represented the tribulation I was experiencing. The minimum amount of light, I felt so keenly in my own life. I envisioned myself as the cowboy: His posture is stooped and suggestive of my own exhaustion and illness.

Although tired after his day’s work, the cowboy is still dedicated and has a job to do. In my darkness, it would have been easier to give up. But some-

how it felt like I had to work to get better and to stay dedicated to my recovery. The dim light faintly shining down on the cowboy and his horse matched my own dim ray of hope.”

The horse’s power and expression are the soul of the drawing.

“Amid all the darkness and exhaustion, its body is strong and full of life and is wrapped around the weary cowboy almost as if embracing him. The eye exemplifies the incredible strength I pulled from this

horse to get through those tough times. I hope my work will offer encouragement to people who are going through turbulent, dark times in their own lives.”

His signature piece would go on to win first place for pencil drawing at the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum’s Western Spirit Art Show & Sale. More recently, at the 20th Anniversary Art for the Sangres art show last September, he sold out on opening night and buyers snapped up all 10 of his pieces by the close of the show, a record-breaking testament not only to the growing demand for his work, but also to the possibility of recovery through willpower, resilience, and healing hard work.

Find Andy Mast’s limited edition prints for sale at Das Holz Haus Furniture, one of only three locations Andy Mast original prints are available.

The store is located at 573 N. CR 325 E., Tuscola, IL. Phone 217-543-3251. Hours: M-Th 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; F 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; closed Sunday.

Illinois Dutch-Style Cooking Discover why The Dutch Kitchen is one of Amish Country’s most popular dining spots. We serve breakfast, lunch and dinner in our nostalgic Main Street setting. Most of our menu favorites originate from authentic Illinois Dutch recipes.

Enjoy our famous fried chicken, Dutch sausage, fresh salad bar, warm breads with Yoder’s Apple Butter and shoo-fly pie.

Come in during your visit to Illinois Amish Country.

• Open Tues thru Sun 7:30 - 7:00 (Closed Mon) • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner • Children’s Menu • Daily Specials • Banquet Room • Fresh Salad Bar 26 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

Corner of Locust & Main, Downtown Arcola 217-268-3518

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

PHOTOS BY CLAY JACKSON, HERALD & REVIEW

Several locals try out the new ropes course at Overlook Adventure Park in Decatur.

LEARN THE ROPES Here’s everything you need to know about the Nelson Parks ropes course JUSTIN CONN Herald & Review‌

‌DECATUR — The latest addition to Nelson Park’s Overlook Adventure Park is a ropes course.

Here’s everything you need to know about the ropes course:

What is it?‌

A 35-foot, 9-inch tall structure with three levels that children and adults can use.

Climbers are harnessed in and locked in to one track that can go in multiple directions.

When will it be open?‌

Opening day was Satur-

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

day, April 1, with hours from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m., with the last admission a half-hour before close.

Spring hours, which last until May 25, are 4 to 8 p.m. on Thcursdays, 4 to 10 p.m. on Fridays, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturdays and noon to 8 p.m. on Sundays.

Starting on May 1, the course will also be open from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday through Wednesday.

What are the age requirements?‌

There are none. If you can walk, you can do the course.

There is a tots course on the bottom level for those 48 inches or under, but a child under 48 inches can still go up to the other levels with a chaperone.

on the verge, we’ll talk to them and give them some additional safety tips and see what they want to do.”

There are no height requirements or restrictions.

What are the size limitations?‌

How much does it cost?‌

Decatur Park District staff said 300 pounds is the suggested limit, but they won’t have a scale at the gate to check.

“That’s somewhat selfpoliced,” said Jamie Gower, director of recreation and facilities for the park district.

“If we think someone could be

For 13 and older, it’s $7 for 30 minutes and $11 for 60 minutes; for ages 4 to 12, it’s $5 for 30 minutes and $10 for 60 minutes; for tots, it’s $4 for 30 minutes and $7 for 60 minutes.

For mini golf and ropes course (18 holes and 30 minutes), it’s $10 for ages 4 to 12 and $11 for 13 and older.

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 27

In what weather can it be used?‌

Any lightning in the area will shut down the ropes course.

It will also likely be closed in heavy rain, though light rain and cold won’t affect use.

“The rain might make it slippery, but that probably just adds some challenge to it,” Gower said. “We open in April, so there might be some cold days. It’s what you can handle cold-wise.”

What should I wear?‌

Shoes are the most important item to remember to wear. No sandals, flip-flops, open-toed or open-heeled shoes should be worn. Ryan Raleigh, director of operations for the park district, said he recommends hard-sole shoes.

Gower suggested comfortable clothes, but said it can be done in any clothing.

“Technically if you came out in your suit, we could get you up there to do it,,” Gower said.

How does it work?‌

Those wanting to use the

PHOTOS BY CLAY JACKSON, HERALD & REVIEW

Hillary Griffey, 10, navigates her way through the Nelson Park ropes course. ropes course should go to the mini golf kiosk, choose what they want to do and pay.

Climbers will walk to the ropes course and be fitted for a harness, then led inside a gate

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and attached to a rail system that can go in multiple directions.

The course is free-roaming — there’s no one direction a climber has to go. They can look out over the edge of the structure or go to the top, where there’s a sky rail that will zip a climber from one side of the structure to the other.

Is it safe?‌

Both Raleigh and Gower said the ropes course was safe.

The harnesses worn can’t become unlocked while the climber is on the course without use of a special tool. The lanyard coming off the harness is in a track that can’t come out of the unit until it’s removed at the end.

“It literally will not come out of there until you’re off the course,” Raleigh said.

Staff has been through 16 hours of training by Ropes Course, Inc., staff. They were trained on what to do if an emergency situation occurred.

“It was pretty extensive,” Gower said. “They make sure everyone feels comfortable with any situation you might face.”

Can I do it if I’m out of shape?‌

Gower said as long as you’re comfortable climbing stairs, you can climb the ropes course.

Raleigh said doing the course doesn’t require upper body strength.

Can I have a birthday party there?‌

Yes. Call Gabby Cliff at (217) 429-7750 for packages and rates.

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JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

JIM BOWLING PHOTOS, HERALD & REVIEW

From left, Dr. Katherine Turpen, Dr. Kenneth Welle and fourth-year veterinary student Nick Yohanna of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine examine Bud, a capybara, after he started eating less than usual during a recent health check at the Scovill Zoo.

THE DOCTOR IS IN AT SCOVILL ZOO

VALERIE WELLS valerie.wells@lee.net‌

‌DECATUR — Bud, a capybara, wouldn’t take kindly to having his teeth meddled with by a veterinarian, so he had to be sedated for his checkup.

Dr. Kenneth Welle of the University of Illinois, accompanied by fourth-year veterinary medicine students and an intern, made his regular rounds at Scovill Zoo recently.

Bud hasn’t been eating well, and Welle spent considerable time with him after he was out cold. The exam took so long that even Eden, the zoo’s JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

sloth, who was napping in her laundry basket suspended in the enclosure she shares with Bud, came out to have a look.

“This is about being proactive about the animals’ health and getting them a once-ayear checkup to make sure they’re doing well,” said Ken Frye, zoo director. “The tough part with an exotic animal is, in the wild, if you show you’re injured or hurt, you become the target of prey.

“They always look for the weak and the injured, so a lot of animals suppress that, and unless you’re actually seeing a wound or a spike decrease

in their food intake, you really don’t know they’re sick a lot of the time.”

He depends on the animals’ keepers to know each

animal’s personality and normal, healthy behavior and appearance, so they will notice if something’s a little off. Even a slight variation

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JIM BOWLING, HERALD & REVIEW

Fourth-year veterinary student Allie Urbanik holds a kookaburra as veterinary doctors evaluate when the bird will be ready to be fitted for a prosthetic beak.

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can indicate an illness, so the keepers have to be very alert.

Animals in captivity tend to live longer than those in the wild, and sometimes old-age issues crop up, such as arthritis, that would never be an issue with a wild animal.

“Just being in a zoo setting, where we can help them, and give them medication and treat injuries, most of the animals’ lives are extended well beyond what they would be in the wild,” he said.

Jafari, the eldest of three cheetahs at Scovill, is 15. The zoo’s chinchilla is 18.

It was Heather Purdeu, Bud’s keeper, who noticed he wasn’t eating as much as normal and seemed to have trouble chewing, so Welle knew where to start in examining him.

Capybaras resemble giant guinea pigs, and like smaller rodents, their teeth grow throughout their lives. Usually, normal eating keeps Bud’s teeth from getting too long, which is why Welle did a thorough exam to rule out other possible causes.

She checks the animals in her care visually at least once a day, more if she suspects an illness or injury. Keepers also watch the amount of food consumed and the animals’ droppings. Changes in poop can be an early indication that something is wrong.

Several of the zoo animals are used to being handled, including Bud, but when an animal is sick or in pain, and if the treatment is uncomfortable, it’s just safer and less stressful for humans and animals if the animal is sedated. Bud had a nice nap while Welle worked on him, with a towel over his eyes so he wouldn’t be upset if he started to wake up and saw a lot of strangers gathered around him.

During the most recent visit, Welle also checked on one of the zoo’s kookaburras, who had a broken beak and was cooperative during her exam, and visited the new outdoor rabbit hutch.

Some of the bunnies are losing weight, and Welle said the adjustment to living outdoors might be too much for them, in spite of their new, roomy quarters.

Welle visits the zoo twice a month, to make sure every animal gets an annual checkup and any animal with medical needs gets treated.

“We will try to look if we have some concerns from the keeper,” Welle said.

“We’ll also do a number of just health exams. Sometimes that’s done annually, sometimes spread out a little bit longer than that, depending on the difficulty of the animal. Some species, sedation is more risky for them, so we spread it out. We try to identify health problems as early in the process as possible.

“Obviously, we don’t have that full hospital here, so there are some limitations to what we can do. We can’t do radiographs and things like that, but we do full exams.

We do blood work.”

They trim hooves on the goats and other “maintenance work,” as he calls it. Some of the animals are prone to periodontal disease, so they do dental cleanings for those.

Not all of the animals require sedation to be examined or cared for, like the kookaburra, who only had to be held by one of Welle’s students.

With older animals, he said, geriatric issues arise, and he monitors their quality of life as well as how that animal’s health is affecting the group dynamic if the animal lives with others.

“It’s really a wide variety of things we do when we’re here,” he said. “Sometimes, we talk about diets, and we have a keeper training program where we talk about diseases that humans and animals share.

“It’s very much like we’d do with any pet species, except it’s more complicated because many of these animals are not approachable. At least, they’re not handleable in the same way.”

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

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GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 31

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JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

MICRO BREWERIES NORMAL‌

DESTIHL 1200 Greenbriar Drive 877-572-7563 destihl.com

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CHAMPAIGN‌

Blind Pig Brewery 120 N. Neil St. 217-398-5133 blindpigbrewery.com DESTIHL Restaurant and Brew Works 301 N. Neil Street JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

217-356-0301 destihl.com

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KEVIN KILHOFFER PHOTOS, JG-TC

Shown is the world’s largest rocking chair located in Casey. The chair has been certified by Guinness World Records.

The World’s Largest Wind Chime is in Casey.

CASEY HOME TO BIG THINGS IN A SMALL TOWN

BY ROB STROUD

‌ ASEY — Visitors can find C a five-story rocking chair and several other world record large items among the Big Things in a Small Town of Casey.

The Big Things began reaching for the sky in December 2011 when local businessman Jim Bolin erected a 56-foottall wind chime along Main

34 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

Street in downtown Casey.

This towering structure was soon recognized as the World’s Largest Wind Chime by Guinness World Records.

Bolin continued to build more Big Things to help bring attention and visitors to his hometown. His efforts subsequently yielded world re-

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

A large pencil is on display in Casey as part of the big things effort in the community.

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

example, the 60-foot long pitch fork can be found at Richards Farm Restaurant and the 30-foot-tall golf tee can be found at the Casey Country Club’s golf course.

Many of the Big Things are located downtown Casey, where they have brought attention to existing businesses and helped spur the opening of new businesses.

The Yarn Studio opened its doors to the 13-foot, .75-inch-long knitting needle and 6-foot, 1.5-inch crochet hook. Casey’s Candy Depot and The Big Dipper ice cream shop have opened next to the mail box. The depot houses the wooden shoes, which are 11 feet, 5.5 inches wide and 4 feet, 11 inches tall.

Casey’s success with Big Things in a Small Town also has inspired the creation of a couple of giants to the east in neighboring Martinsville.

The Rowe Foundry in Martinsville has created the World’s Largest Horseshoe and placed it at an entrance to

the Martinsville Agricultural Fairgrounds. The horseshoe is solid cast iron, weighing 1,444.2 pounds and standing 5 feet, 1 ¼ inches tall.

In addition, the Rowe Foundry most recently built a contender for world’s largest anvil and placed this

5,530-pound object in downtown Linn Park near the amphitheater there.

More information about Big Things in a Small Town can be found online at http:// bigthingssmalltown.com / or https://www.facebook.com / bigthingssmalltown/.

August 30. 31. & Sept 1 2014 Casey, IL

TH

32

cord recognition for the largest crochet hook and knitting needles, golf tee, pitch fork, rocking chair, wooden shoes, and mailbox.

Casey’s giants are not limited to Guinness World Records items. The Big Things in a Small Town Workshop also has produced a gargantuan ear of corn, bird cage, pencil, yard stick, wooden token and spinning top.

Some of the Big Things have interactive components, such as visitors being able to ring the wind chime, swing in the bird cage, and spin the top.

Visitors can also climb a staircase in the 32-foot, 6.5inch tall mailbox and look out over downtown. This structure is a functioning mailbox that can be used to send letters. Whenever letters are dropped into the mail slot there, the giant flag on the side of the mail box is raised.

Bolin has spread out the locations of the various Big Things to help bring attention to local businesses. For

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GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 35

Kid’ s Korner!

Pages Just For Me Did You Know??

• Did you know a bear has 42 teeth • Did you know an ostrich’s eye is bigger than its brain • Did you know M&M’s chocolate stands for the initials for its inventors Mars and Murrie • Did you know a giraffe can clean its ears with its 21 inch tongue • Did you know the Grand Canyon can hold around 900 trillion footballs • Did you know frogs can’t swallow with their eyes open • Did you know hummingbirds are the only bird that can fly backwards • Did you know a hummingbird’s heart beats at over a 1,000 times a minute • Did you know dragonflies have 6 legs but can’t walk • Did you know a group of frogs is called an army • Did you know owls can’t move their eyes from side to side • Did you know you take over 23,000 breaths everyday • Did you know ants stretch when they wake up in the morning

Theme: Careers A ACCOUNTANT ADVISOR AGENT AIDE ANCHORWOMAN ARCHAEOLOGIST ARTIST ASSISTANT ASTRONAUT ASTRONOMER ATHLETE ATTENDANT B BAKER BALLERINA BANKER BARTENDER BISHOP BOSS BOTANIST BREEDER BROKER BUILDER BUTCHER BUTLER C CAMERAMAN CANTOR CARPENTER CHAIRMAN CHAUFFEUR CHEF CHIROPRACTOR CHOREOGRAPHER CINEMATOGRAPHER CLOWN COMEDIAN CONDUCTOR CONSULTANT

COP CORRESPONDENT COUNCILOR COUNSELLOR COURIER CURATOR D DANCER DEAN DECORATOR DENTIST DESIGNER DETECTIVE DOCTOR DRESSER DRESSMAKER DRIVER DRUGGIST E EDITOR EDUCATOR ENGINEER F FARMER FIREMAN FISHERMAN G GARDENER GOALIE GOVERNOR GUITARIST H HOST I ILLUSTRATOR J JANITOR JOCKEY L LAWYER LONGSHOREMAN

The blue whale is the largest animal on earth. The heart of a blue whale is as big as a car and its tongue is as long as an elephant.

Solution: 9 letters M MAGICIAN MANAGER MASSEUSE MECHANIC MEDIC MESSENGER METEOROLOGIST MIME MINISTER MODEL N NANNY NOTARY NUN NURSE O OPERATOR P PAINTER PIANIST PLUMBER POET POLITICIAN PREACHER PRESIDENT PRIEST PRINCIPAL PRO PRODUCER PROFESSOR PSYCHIATRIST PSYCHOLOGIST PUBLISHER R RABBI RECEPTIONIST RECTOR REF REGISTRAR REP

36 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

REPAIRMAN REPORTER RESEARCHER ROOFER S SAILOR SALESMAN SCIENTIST SEAMSTRESS SECRETARY SENATOR SHEPHERD SHERIFF SINGER SOLDIER SPY SUPERINTENDENT SURGEON SURVEYOR T TAILOR TEACHER TECHNICIAN TELLER THERAPIST TREASURER TRUCKER TYPIST U UMPIRE V VALET VET W WAITER WAITRESS WEAVER WRITER

The elephant is the largest animal on land.

But it is much smaller than the blue whale.

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

START HERE

START HERE

Find the spider.

START HERE

Turn The Page For a Story!

ANSWER: TWO AND FIVE

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106 W. Cumberland St, Greenup, IL 217-923-3344 Hours: W-F 10am-6pm • Sat 9am-1pm GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 37

The Apple Tree and the Farmer

Once upon a time, there lived a farmer in a village, beside a forest. He had a big garden that had an old apple tree and other plants, trees and beautiful flowers. When the farmer was a little boy, he spent much of his time playing with the apple tree. Those days, the apple tree had given the choicest of apples to him. However, as time passed, the apple tree became old and stopped bearing fruits.

Now that the farmer was not getting any apples from the tree, he decided that the tree was useless. Therefore, he decided to cut the tree and use its wood to make some new furniture. He felt that since the tree was old and huge, he did not have to cure it, and it would make great furniture. He forgot that as a boy, he had spent his entire childhood climbing the tree and eating its apples.

Now the apple tree was home to several little animals in the neighborhood. This included squirrels, sparrows and a huge variety of birds and insects. When the farmer took his axe and began chopping the tree, all the little animals came rushing down.

They all began to plead with the farmer. They gathered round the farmer and said, “Please don’t cut the tree. We used to play with you when you were small, under this very tree. This is our home and we have no other place to go”.

The farmer was adamant. He raised his axe and the commotion grew.

“Please don’t chop and destroy my home and kids,” cried the squirrel.

“Please don’t chop and destroy my nest,” cried the little birds.

“Please don’t cut the apple tree,” cried the grasshopper.

The farmer, however, forgot his childhood and his animal friends. He began to chop the tree harder. All the little animals became desperate, and wanted to protect the apple tree at any cost.

The little animals said, “We will sing for you when you are toiling away in the fields. We will look after your little boy. He will not cry, but instead will be entertained and happy. You will like our songs and will not feel tired.”

However, their cries for help fell on deaf ears. Despite all their requests, the farmer continued to chop down the tree.

All of a sudden, he noticed something shiny. On inspecting it, he realized that it was a beehive, full of honey. He took a little and put it in his mouth. The taste of the honey woke up the little boy in him. Suddenly, the memories of his childhood came rushing back. The honey tasted so good that he wanted more. It brought a sense of happiness to him. He smiled and exclaimed, “This tastes amazing.”

Realizing the change in the farmer’s attitude, the little animals spoke in unison: The bee said, “I will always provide you with sweet honey.” The squirrel said, “I will share any amount of nuts that you want.” The birds cried, “We will sing as many songs as you want.”

Finally, the farmer realized his folly, and put down his axe. He understood that the tree was home to many lovely animals that provided him with so many things. He wanted his little boy to have the childhood that he had.

The farmer realized that the apple tree was not that fruitless. The little boy in him saved the apple tree.

He threw away the axe and said to the little creatures, “I promise that I would never cut this tree. I have realized my mistake and you all can now live in peace and harmony.”

The little creatures thanked the bee profusely. If the farmer had not found the beehive, they would have been homeless by now. They continued living happily in the old apple tree.

Moral: Each and every living thing in nature is of some use: we should not destroy any living thing.

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JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

So many places

to paddle your boat

LENORE SOBOTA, THE PANTAGRAPH

A kayaker watches the sun set at Evergreen Lake, north of Bloomington-Normal, just off Interstate 39.

Central Illinois rivers, lakes and waterways LENORE SOBOTA

There are as many opinions about best places to paddle in Central Illinois as there are paddlers — which is probably more than you think.

Whether your preference is canoeing, kayaking or the relatively new kid on the block, stand-up paddle boarding, you can find a place relatively close to home to dip your paddle, from rivers to lakes.

A good starting point for river trips is Mike Svob’s book, “Paddling Illinois.”

Some of the information about camping or boat rentals JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

has become out of date since its last update in 2007. However, it is still the most comprehensive reference on places to put in and take out your boat.

Numerous lakes in the region also offer opportunities for paddling, although it is important to match your boat type and skill level to the water conditions and motorized boat traffic you are likely to encounter.

Don’t forget that Illinois requires you to have a Water Usage Stamp for your canoe, kayak or standup paddleboard.

They are available where

hunting and fishing licenses are sold for $6, plus a vendor fee of 50 cents.

Clinton Lake State Recreation Area

Paddling a small, humanpowered craft amid large power boats and water skiers on a busy summer weekend at Clinton Lake probably is not the best idea. But don’t write off the lake as a destination.

The North Fork Canoe Access provides a river-like experience in a section where only electric motors are permitted and no shuttle is needed.

Paddle as far upstream as water levels and downed trees allow then paddle downstream toward the lake.

The Parnell Access on the east side also is suitable for canoes and kayaks. It is about a 10-15 minute drive from Exit 159 on I-74, through Farmer City on Illinois 54.

The site has camping available and challenging hiking trails on the north end.

Comlara Park

With its many protected coves, abundant wildlife, good fishing and a 10-horsepower

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 39

limit on boats, Evergreen Lake is an excellent place to explore with paddle power.

The lake is located off Interstate 39, about 15 miles north of Bloomington, for which it serves as a reservoir. It is surrounded by Comlara Park run,

by McLean County, with hiking trails and vehicle-accessible, electric campsites as well as more primitive, walk-in sites. Canoe and kayak rentals are available in the main recreation area from the first Saturday in April to the last Sunday in October. Rates are $10 an hour or $25 daily.

The lake is a great place to go birding by boat and it’s not unusual to see an eagle or two fishing. Deer, coyote, raccoons and even mink might be spotted, especially around sunrise and sunset.

Launching from the main recreation area, paddlers can go south, under a bridge and follow the twists and turns of Six Mile Creek, the lake’s primary source. The White Oak launch, near the walk-in

campground, provides good access to the north end of the lake.

All watercraft, including canoes and kayaks, are required to have an Evergreen Lake registration sticker which costs $48 annually or $20 daily ($38 and $15, respectively, for McLean County residents).

Those renting a boat from the park do not have to purchase a registration sticker.

Banner Marsh Fish and Wildlife Area‌

The waters in this former agricultural and mining area are popular for fishing and an excellent place for paddlers who like to see waterfowl and other birds, particularly during migration. Great blue herons, mallards, Canada geese and even mute swans are commonly found at Banner Marsh. White pelicans, with their 9-foot wingspan, are a special treat during migration, along with great egrets.

40 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

With motors over 25 horsepower prohibited, Banner Marsh is a serene place with many nooks and crannies to explore.

Banner Marsh is located on U.S. 24, about 15 miles southwest of Peoria.

The best places to launch are the the East Point Access for Wheel Lake and the main access area. Both have picnic areas and the East Point Access Area has a pond set aside for youth fishing. Camping is available at Rice Lake, about 5 miles away.

Mackinaw River‌

The Mackinaw River runs through agricultural areas, but the woodlands along its banks, along with natural areas protected through private and state ownership, give it a more wild feel.

This is a river where you may find a heron rookery — sycamore trees filled with nests, like apartment buildings for the large wading birds — or even a bald eagle nest.

A popular route goes from the U.S. 150 bridge between Congerville and Goodfield to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources canoe landing at the Mackinaw River State Fish and Wildlife Area. This section is generally free of channel blocking deadfall that can be more of a problem upstream, but paddlers always need to be alert.

Embarras River‌

Pronounced “am-braw,” this river is named for a French word for “obstruction,” according to “Paddling Illinois,” but don’t let that deter you. The river generally is clear of obstructions after Lake Charleston. You can launch your boat downstream of the dam and paddle nearly 9 miles to a canoe landing on the south end of Fox Ridge State Park.

In addition to two canoe landings, the park offers camping and hiking trails.

There’s even an observation deck that 144-steps above the river.

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

Bloomington-Normal booms with summer fun Festivals create the per‌ fect summer atmosphere by bringing together large groups of people, live music, food, fun and entertainment. By our count, Bloomington-Normal will host fifteen festivals from June through August. That’s more than one a week!

The summer fun kicks off in June when the 26th Annual Champagne British Car Festival rolls into town, which features over 100 British cars displayed in all their unique and varied glory on the grounds of the David Davis Mansion. Also at the David Davis Mansion will be the 21st Annual Glorious Garden Festival, which highlights several beautiful gardens in the Bloomington-Normal Area.

The Illinois Shakespeare Festival will be celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2017. Attendees can bring a picnic basket and a bottle of wine and have dinner on the grounds of Ewing Cultural Center before the show!

Arts and crafts vendors from

STEVE SMEDLEY, THE PANTAGRAPH

Numerous activities are regularly held at the David Davis Mansion State Historic Site in Bloomington. across the country display their talents and products at the Sugar Creek Arts Festival in Uptown Normal, which features the artwork and craftsmanship of over 100 artists. If you love history, then Lincoln’s Festival on 66 is the perfect way to spend your weekend. Reenactments, lectures and a concert are included in the festival, which details Abraham Lin-

coln’s connections to Bloomington-Normal and the impact of Route 66 in our area. Love live music? The Medici Craft Beer and Jazz Street Fair offers over 45 different craft beers and a lineup of live jazz music on the streets of Uptown Normal. Visitors can enjoy crafts, antiques, auctions, fireworks and fair food at the Stanford Good Old Days Festival.

MAJOR FESTIVALS and FAIRS HAPPENING in the BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL AREA this SUMMER! • • • • • • • • •

JUNE 4 Champagne British Car Festival JUNE 16-17 Glorious Garden Festival JUNE 30 - AUGUST 12 Illinois Shakespeare Festival al JULY 8-9 Sugar Creek Arts Festival JULY 14-16 Stanford Good Old Days Festival JULY 22 Medici Craft Beer and Jazz Street Fair AUGUST 2-6 McLean County Fair AUGUST 19 Front Street Music Festival AUGUST 26-27 Sweet Corn Blues Festival

The McLean County Fair kicks off the end of summer in August. This fair is the largest county 4-H fair in the world.

In addition to the carnival rides, attendees can interact with farm animals at the petting zoo, attend magic and comedy shows, get a funky face painting or balloon animal and enjoy funnel cakes and lemon shakeups. At the Front Street Music Festival in Downtown Bloomington, food trucks and beer tents will be on hand to satisfy your appetite as you dance to the live music. Over 50,000 ears of fresh sweet corn will be on hand at the Sweet Corn Blues Festival. Grab an ear and enjoy the sidewalk sales, arts, crafts, and flea market vendors. Enjoy the food, fun and some of the best blues music around!

For more information and a full list of all BloomingtonNormal area events, call us at 309-665-0033 or visit our website at VisitBN.org.

Be

eNtertained Medici Craft Beer and Jazz Street Fair

Champagne British Car Fe st

ival

Sugar Creek Arts Festival

CONTACT US for MORE INFORMATION and a FULL LIST of all BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL EVENTS VisitBN.org \ 800.433.8226

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 41

For menus, hours, and the latest events visit UptownNormal.com

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S COLOf R O SPRING

EVENTS May 20 & 21

September 23

May 21

September 30

Sidewalk Sales

National Train Day

June 10

Uptown Block Party Part of Worldwide Day of Play

Special Olympics Street Dance

October 19*

June 24

October 21

Make Music Normal

July 8 & 9

Sugar Creek Arts Festival

July 22

Medici Craft Beer & Jazz Festival

August 26 & 27 Sweet Corn Blues Festival

September 1

Light the Night Bike Light Giveaway

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Uptown Normal • 309-452-1612 Mon.-Fri. 9:30-5:30 • Sat. 9-3

Witches Night Out Illinois State University Homecoming

October 30 Treat Feast

November 4 & 5

Illinois State University Family Weekend

November 11

Holiday Open House

December 2

Santa’s Station Opening

42 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

Hours: Mon. - Fri. 10am-7pm Sat. 10am-5pm Sun. 12pm-4pm

206 S. Linden St., NL

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UptownNormal.com JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

Gallery 510 interim executive director Terry Beer is pictured with some of the submissions for a Young Artists Showcase that was to be on display at the Decatur Arts Council.

AREA ATTRACTIONS Museums/ Historic Homes‌

Bethel School, Friends Creek Conservation Area, 13734 Friends Creek Park Road, Cisco, 4237708. www.maconcountyconservation.org.

Birks Museum, Gorin Hall, Millikin University campus, 1184 W. Main St., Decatur, 424-6337. www.millikin.edu/location/ birks-museum.

Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum, 3635 Illinois 36 East, Decatur, 791-5793. www.chevrolethalloffamemuseum.com.

Children’s Museum of Illinois, 55 S. Country Club Road, Decatur, 423-5437. www.cmofil.org.

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

The Sulphur Springs Schoolhouse is located in Mount Zion’s Fletcher Park and serves as a museum.

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 43

Lauren Taylor, an archivist at the Hieronymus Mueller Museum, describes the different aspects of the Watertown, USA diorama which she helped restore at the museum.

Gov. Oglesby Mansion, 421 W. William St., Decatur, 429-9422. www.oglesbymansion.org.

Hieronymus Mueller Museum, 420 W. Eldorado St., Decatur, 4236161. www.muellermuseum.org.

A red-bellied woodpecker perches near the bird feeders at Rock Springs Nature Center.

Homestead Prairie Farm, Rock Springs Conservation Area, 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, 423-7708. www.maconcountyconservation.org.

James Millikin Homestead, 125 N. Pine St., Decatur, 4229003. performance.millikin. edu/millikinhomestead.

Rayden and Rhianna Hunter explore the metal sculpture ‘Borborygmid 10’ created by William Vannerson in the Scovill Sculpture Park.

Macon County Historical Museum, 5580 North Fork Road, Decatur, 422-4919. www.mchmdecatur.org.

Sulphur Springs Schoolhouse, Fletcher Park, 323 Fletcher Park Blvd., Mount Zion, 864-5424.

Handbags & Accessories 216 N Center St, Bloomington

P: 309-820-1831

Visit us on our website:

www.jboshandbags.com 44 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

Galleries‌

David Erlanson Gallery, Richland Community College, One College Park, Decatur, 875-7200. www.richland.edu/gallery.

Decatur Airport Gallery, 910 S. Airport Road, Decatur, 422-1509. www.gallery510.org.

Decatur Area Arts Council, 125 N. Water St., Decatur, 423-3189. www.decaturarts.org.

Decatur Public Library, 130 N. Franklin St., Decatur, 424-2900. www.decaturlibrary.org.

Gallery 510, 160 E. Main St., Suite 100, Decatur, 422-1509. gallery510.org.

Heroic Age Art Center, 135 S. Henderson St., Mount Zion, 8645111. www.HAArtCenter.com.

Millikin University Blue Connection, 117 N. Water St., Decatur, 428-0112. www.millikin.edu/ news/blue-connection.

Perkinson Art Gallery, Kirkland Fine Arts Center, Millikin University, 1184 W. Main St., Decatur, 424-6227. www.millikin.edu/art.

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

The Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum offers a wide selection of some of America’s finest Chevrolet memorabilia and hot rods dating from the 1920s to today.

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 45

North and South Galleries, Rock Springs Nature Center, 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, 423-7708. www. maconcountyconservation.org.

Gardens and Nature Centers‌ Anna Bethel Fisher Rock Garden, Nelson Park, Decatur, 422-5911. www.decatur-parks.org.

Dreamland Lake/Rose Garden, Fairview Park, Decatur, 422-5911, www.decatur-parks.org.

Blooms are shown at Schaub Floral Display Center, Decatur.

Fair trade means what you buy matters.

Fort Daniel Conservation Area, 4975 Fort Daniel Road, Decatur, 423-7708. www.maconcountyconservation.org.

Friends Creek Conservation Area, 13734 Friends Creek Park Road, Cisco, 423-7708. www. maconcountyconservation.org.

Heirloom Herb and Vegetable Gardens, Homestead Prairie Farm, Rock Springs Conservation Area, 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, 423-7708. www.maconcountyconservation.org.

Mari-Mann Herb Farm Inc., 1405 MariMann Lane, Decatur, 4291404. www.marimann.com.

Rock Springs Nature Center, 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, 423-7708. www.maconcountyconservation.org.

Scovill House and Oriental Gardens, Scovill Park, 71 S. Country Club Road, Decatur, 422-5911. www. decatur-parks.org.

Scovill Sculpture Park (Decatur Parks Foundation), Scovill Park, 71 S. Country Club Road, Decatur, 422-5911. www.behindeveryexperience.com.

Schaub Floral Display Center, greenhouse and Memorial Garden, Sportsman’s Park, 3415 E. Lost Bridge Road, Decatur, 421-7550. www.decatur-parks.org.

Travel with Fourwinds behind You!

MAROA and EAST PEORIA, IL Get Away while keeping the comforts of home!

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46 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

15277 N.Wood St. Maroa, IL 61756 Maroa Exit off U.S. 51 | 217-794-2292 www.fourwindsrv.com JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

Artist Matthias Neumann, bottom left, of Brooklyn, N.Y., receives help from Bruce Klaus, far left, Rodney Lange, middle left, Roger Chaney, middle right and Honz Cartee, far right, of the Decatur Park District while installing his work ‘Bench IV (Basic)’ in the Scovill Sculpture Park.

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JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 47

Richard Togerson portrays Richard J. Oglesby while answering questions about the historical figure as, from left, students Gabriel Finn, Lucy Finn, Caleb Willfong and Aaron Trimble listen during the ‘President Grant Visits Oglesby Mansion’ historical presentation at the mansion.

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48 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

Genealogical Societies‌

African American Cultural & Genealogical Society of Illinois, 235 W. Eldorado St., Box 25251, Decatur, 429-7458. www. african-americancultural.org.

Decatur Genealogical Society, 1255 W. South Side Drive, Decatur, 429-0135. www.rootsweb. ancestry.com.

Zoos‌

Scovill Zoo, Scovill Park, 71 S. Country Club Road, Decatur, 421-7435. www.decatur-parks. org. Featuring 400 animals spanning six continents, Endangered Species Carousel, ZO & O Express Train, Project Playground, Friend of the Zoo

memberships, gift shop, special events, educational programs, volunteer opportunities. Scovill Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

Other‌

Macon Speedway, 205 N. Wiles St., Macon, 764-3000. www.maconracing.com.

Movie theaters‌

Avon Theatre, 426 N. Water St., Decatur 422-1776. www.theavon. com.

Hickory Point 12, Hickory Point Mall, Forsyth, 875-3233. www. carmike.com.

Strand, 2360 S. Mount Zion Road, Decatur, 615-5288. www. carmike.com.

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

BLOOMINGTON NOrMaL area

Central Illinois Golf Courses

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

The Den at Fox Creek Bloomington 309-434-2300 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,422 Greens fees: M-Th $32; F-Sun $42 (Frequent player card: MTh $24; F-Sun $31) Practice range: Yes www.thedengc.com Highland Park G.C. Bloomington 309-434-2200 Par: 70 Yardage: 5,539 Greens fees: M-Th $17; F-Sun $19 (Frequent player card: MTh $13; F-Sun $15) Practice range: No www.highlandparkgc.com Ironwood G.C. Normal 309-454-9620 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,456 Greens fees: M-F $24, Weekends $26; Seniors (60-older) and juniors (17-under) $17 after 2 p.m. on weekends Practice range: Yes www.golfironwood.org The Links at Ireland Grove Bloomington 309-661-8040 Par: 29 Yardage: 1,590 Greens fees: $10, $5 under age 6 Practice range: Yes www.thelinksatirelandgrove.com Prairie Vista G.C. Bloomington 309-434-2217 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,427 Greens fees: M-Th $32; F-Sun $34 (Frequent player card: M-Th $24; F-Sun $26) Practice range: Yes www.prairievistagc.com Weibring Golf Club at ISU Normal 309-438-8065 Par: 71 Yardage: 6,160 Greens fees: M-F $32, Weekends $36; Seniors: M-F $23, Weekends $26; Juniors: M-F $21, Weekends $23 Practice range: Short game area www.isugolf.com/golf anderson Fields G.C. Streator 815-672-3702 Par: 35 Yardage: 2,682 Greens fees: 9 holes: $10 (resident), $12 (non-resident); 18 holes: $17 (resident), $20 (non-resident) Practice range: No www.ci.streator.il.us/ anderson-fields.php Bluegrass Creek G.C. Minier 309-392-2094 Par: 36 Yardage: 3,044 Greens fees: $13 (all day); Juniors $8 (15-under) Practice range: No Dwight Country Club Dwight 815-584-1399 Par: 71 Yardage: 6,306 Greens fees: M-F $17, $21 weekends Practice range: Yes

www.dwightcountryclub.com el Paso Golf Club Kappa 309-527-5225 Par: 71 Yardage: 6,111 Greens fees: $27 for 18 holes, $13.50 for 9 holes, closed to the public Sunday and holidays Practice range: Short game area www.elpasogolfclub.com Fairlakes Golf Course Secor 309-744-2222 Par: 67 Yardage: 5,052 Greens fees: M-F: $9 (9 holes), $16 (18 holes); Weekends: $11 (9 holes), $18 (weekends) Practice range: No www.fairlakesgc.com Four Willows G.C. Mason City 217-482-3349 Par: 35 Yardage: 3,000 Greens fees: $9 for 9 holes, $6 for replay Practice range: No Hazy Hills G.C. Hudson 309-726-9200 Par: 35 Yardage: 2,900 Greens fees: $9 Practice range: No Indian Creek G.C. Fairbury 815-692-2655 Par: 72 Yardage: 5,840 Greens fees: 9 holes: $10, M-F, $12 weekends; 18 holes: $16 MF, $18 weekends Practice range: Yes www.indiancreekcc.net Indian Springs G.C. Saybrook 309-475-4111 Par: 36 Yardage: 3,255 Greens fees: $16 M-F, $19 weekends (18 holes) Practice range: Yes Kaufman Park G.C. Eureka 309-467-2523 Par: 34 Yardage: 2,767 Greens fees: 9 holes: $10; 18 holes: $16 Practice range: No Lake of the Woods G.C. Mahomet 217-586-2183 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,044 Greens fees: M-F $24 (resident), $26 (non-resident); Weekends $25 (resident), $27 (non-resident) Practice range: Yes www.golfthelake.com Leroy Country Club LeRoy 309-962-3421 Par: 71 Yardage: 5,681 Greens fees: 9 holes $7, 18 holes $14 Practice range: Chipping area Lick Creek G.C. Pekin 309-346-0077 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,308 Green fees: Weekdays $21.25, Weekends $24 Practice range: Yes

www.pekinparkdistrict.org/ lickcreek.html Lincoln elks C.C. Lincoln 217-732-4010 Par: 71 Yardage: 6,100 Greens fees: 9 holes $15, 18 holes $26 Practice range: Yes Metamora Fields Metamora 309-367-4000 Par: 71 Yardage: 6,209 Green fees: Weekday $45, Weekends $55 Practice range: Yes www.metamorafields.com North Greens G.C. Atlanta 217-648-5500 Par: 36 Yardage: 3,290 Greens fees: 9 holes $10, 18 holes $16; Seniors: 9 holes $8, 18 holes $13 (M-F) Practice range: Yes Pontiac elks C.C. Pontiac 815-842-1249 Pontiac elks C.C. Pontiac 815-842-1249 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,579 Fees: M-F $20, Weekends $24 Practice range: Yes www.pontiacelks.com railside Golf Club Gibson City 217-784-5000 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,755 Fees: M-F $18; Weekends $23 Practice range: Yes www.railside.com Twin Creeks G.C. Streator 815-672-4220 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,133 Greens fees: 9 holes: M-F $12, Weekends $15.50; 18 holes: MF $17, Weekends $22.50 Practice range: Yes Weaverridge Golf Club Peoria 309-691-3344 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,013 Green fees: $39-79 (includes cart) Practice range: Yes www.weaverridge.com Wolf Creek Golf Club Cayuga 815-842-9008 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,637 Greens fees: 9 holes: M-F $10, Weekends $13; 18 holes: M-F $18, Weekends $21 Practice range: Yes www.golfatwolfcreek.com

“Wolf Creek is one of the finest public golf courses in the State of Illinois.”

-Illinoisgolf.com

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 49

Woodlawn C.C. Farmer City 309-928-3215 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,234 Greens fees: 9 holes: M-Sat $10, Sunday $12; 18 holes: MSat $18, Sunday $20 Practice range: Yes www.woodlawncountryclubfc.com

DECATUR AREA

Hickory Point Decatur 217-421-7444 727 Weaver Rd. Par: 72 Yardage: 6,848 Greens fees: $32 weekdays (18 holes and cart) Driving range: Yes www.decatur-parks.org/golf Red Tail Run Decatur 217-422-2211 520 West Grove Rd. Par: 72 Yardage: 7,351 Greens fees: $32 weekdays Driving range: Yes www.decatur-parks.org/golf Scovill Decatur 217-429-6243 3909 W. Main St. Par: 71 Yardage: 5,925 Greens fees: $32 weekdays Driving range: Yes www.decatur-parks.org/golf Cardinal Golf Club Effingham 217-868-2860 15737 N. Beach Rd.

Par: 72 Yardage: 5,899 Greens fees: $30 weekdays Driving range: Yes Fore-Way Golf Course Effingham 217-858-5418 16041 N. 100th St. Par: 36 Yardage: 2,910 www.forewaygolfcourse.com The National Golf Course Findlay 217-756-5555 Rte. 1, Box 230 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,900 Greens fees: $30 weekdays www.thenationalgc.com Moweaqua Golf Course Moweaqua 217-768-3411 2598 E. 1900 North Rd. Par: 72 Yardage: 6,307 Driving range: Yes Greens fees: $16 weekdays www.moweaquagolfcourse.com Oak Terrace Resort Pana 1-800-577-7598 1000 Beyers Lake Road Par: 72 Yardage: 6,275 Greens fees: $44 weekdays www.oakterraceresort.com St. Elmo Golf Club St. Elmo 618-829-3390 1 mile NW of St. Elmo Par: 36 Yardage: 3,220 Greens fees: $8 (9 holes, walk;

or $15 with cart) www.stelmogolfclub.com Deer Trail Golf Club Shelbyville 217-774-3030 1902 E. 1500 North Road Par: 35 Yardage: 2,832 Lake Shore Taylorville 217-824-5521 1460 E. 1000 North Road Par: 72 Yardage: 6,778 Greens fees: $32 weekdays www.golflakeshore.com Lincoln Trail Golf Club Taylorville 217-824-5161 2021 Lincoln Trail Par: 35 Yardage: 2,905 Ironhorse Golf Club Tuscola 217-253-6644 2000 Ironhorse Dr. Par: 72 Yardage: 7,046 Greens fees: $24 weekdays www.ironhorsegc.com Fox Prairie Golf Course (formerly Angus Links) Windsor 217-459-2805 3 miles south of Windsor Par: 71 Yardage: 6,705 Greens fees: $27 www.anguslinks.com Legends Golf Course Champaign 217-863-2145

4551 Nicklaus Dr. Par: 29 Yardage: 1,489 Greens fees: $9 Driving range: Yes www.legendsofchampaign.com Stone Creek Golf Club Urbana 217-367-3000 2600 S. Stone Creek Blvd.

Par: 72 Yardage: 7,118 Greens fees: $39 to $54 (depending on time) Driving range: Yes www.stonecreekgolfclub.com University of Illinois Blue Savoy 217-359-5613 800 Hartwell Dr. Par: 72 Yardage: 6,479 Greens fees: $34 weekdays Driving range: Yes www.uofigolf.com University of Illinois Orange Savoy 217-359-5613 800 Hartwell Dr. Par: 72 Yardage: 6,866 Greens fees: $37 weekdays Driving range: Yes www.uofigolf.com

MATTOON CHARLESTON AREA Meadowview Golf Course Mattoon 6489 Meadowview Lane 217-258-7888 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,745

Greens fees: $27 weekday, twilight Driving Range: Yes www.meadowviewgolf.com Norton Knolls Golf Course Oakland N. Reel Street P.O. Box 594 217-346-3102 Par: 34 Yardage: 2,547 Greens fees: $18 Driving Range: No Rogala Public Links Mattoon 1322 State Highway 16 217-235-5518 Par: 36 Yardage: 3069 Greens fees: $23 Driving Range: No Eagle Ridge Golf Course Paris 928 Clinton Road 217-463-3434 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,589 Bent Tree Golf Course Charleston 14618 E. County Road 400N 217-348-1611 Par: 70 Yardage: 6,240 Greens fees: $20 weekdays Timberlake Golf Course Sullivan 957 County Road 700E 217-797-6496 Par: 70 Yardage: 6,054 Greens fees: $18, 9 holes with cart www.timberlakegolfcourse.com jg-tc.

Play Great Golf @

Charleston High School’s Jarrod Blagg tees off at the 11th hole during the 2014 IHSA boys’ golf regional at the Mattoon Golf & Country Club, one of Central Illinois’ many picturesque golf courses.

Lake of the Woods Golf Course • 18-Hole Course • FootGolf • 9-Hole • Par 3

KEN TREVARTHAN, JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER

Come Golf, Dine & Celebrate With Us! 405 N Lake of the Woods Road, Mahomet, IL

www.golfthelake.com • (217)586-2183

50 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

WWW.EASTWOOSTWINCREEKS.COM THE EASTWOOD: 815.673.5553

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

STEVE SMEDLEY, THE PANTAGRAPH

Mike Henry studies a birdie putt on No. 10 in 2015 at Ironwood Golf Course during the Bloomington-Normal City Match Play Championship.

Fox Prairie Golf Course 3035 County Hwy 38 Windsor, IL 217-459-2805

www.FoxPrairieGolf.com Mondays Play all Day for $28.00 Weekdays: $18 for 9 holes w/cart • $30 for 18 holes w/cart

Seniors (60 +) $27 for 18 holes w/cart Weekends: $22 for 9 holes w/cart • $38 for 18 holes w/cart

Twilight & Senior rates start at 1:00PM

STEVE SMEDLEY, THE PANTAGRAPH

Alan Bardwell eyes a drive during 2015’s Bloomington-Normal City Match Play Championship.

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

Monday-Friday $17.00 for 18 holes w/cart with the purchase of the frequent golfer card. ***Discount coupons available*** Call 217-459-2805 or go online at www.FoxPrairieGolf.com for tee times and more information

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 51

5100 W WeaverRidge Blvd., Peoria, 309.691.3344 Zagat Rated #1 golf course in Illinois 4 Years in a Row!

Rates Starting at $40

Check Online for Rates and Tee Times cart included!

Early Bird, Twilight, Senior and Junior Rates Available Visit www.weaverridge.com for details Award-Winning Sunday Champagne Brunch Served every Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Restaurant open daily at 11 a.m.

Become a Facebook fan

KEVIN KILHOFFER, JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER

Charleston High School’s Aislinn Parish hits the ball at the Charleston Country Club during play last fall.

Not a b Private CNluE’S EVERYO ME! WELCO

A public course with the excellence of a private club.

Play At The Home Of The Redbirds!

Since 1964 the Weibring Golf Club at Illinois State University has welcomed golfers to test our challenging 18 holes of championship golf.

Located on the campus of Illinois State University, and open to the public, the Weibring Golf Club is the home of the Redbird Golf programs and features beautiful tree lined fairways and smooth, fast greens.

Book your time now! Call 309-438-8065 of visit us online at www.isugolf.com

52 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

CALENDAR OF EVENTS APRIL 2017‌ Coles County Speedway Race Car Show, Cross County Mall, Mattoon. Mall site www.crosscountymall.com. Ccmmra.net

2, 7-9 Vermillion Players present “Bleacher Bums” at the Eagle Performing Arts and Conference Center, Pontiac. Vermillion Players (815) 844-3221 www.vermillionplayers.com Eagle (815) 844-1187, pontiaceagle.com Disenchanted at the Effingham Performance Center. 7:30 p.m. $41-$52. 1-800-745-3000 or theepc.org.

6-9 As You Like It, Millikin University Kirkland Fine Arts Center, 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday (217) 424-6318 $1214 www.millikin.edu/kirkland.

Linda Thomas at the Bement Country Opry, 201 S. State, Monticello. 7 p.m. Adults $10, ages 12 and under $5. (217) 377-0550 or www.bementcountryopry.com.

7-9 Spring craft show, Cross County Mall, Mattoon.

Shelby County Spring Craft Fair, Shelby County Fairgrounds, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. www. lakeshelbyville.com.

Finders Market, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Decatur Conference Center and Hotel.

8-9 Shelby County Art Show, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Visitor Center, 3 to 7 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, www. lakeshelbyville.com.

20 and 30 “The Lion King” Bus trip from Decatur Area Arts Council to Fox Theatre, St. Louis, Mo., $160 (includes lunch, transportation, ticket and snack). (217) 423-3189. www.decaturarts.org.

Marvin Lee at the Bement Coun-

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

DAVE FOPAY, JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER‌

‘Kenny’ the bald eagle perches on the arm of Jane Seitz, executive director of the Illinois Raptor Center, during a program at the Lake Shelbyville visitors center. He was part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ annual ‘Eagle Day’ event. try Opry, 201 S. State, Monticello.

7 p.m. Adults $10, ages 12 and under $5. (217) 377-0550. www. bementcountryopry.com.

21-23, 28-30, 5-7 “The Bachelorette,” Millikin University Kirkland Fine Arts Center, 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 21 and 28; 10:30 p.m. Friday, May 5; noon and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 22 and 29; noon Saturday, May 6; 2 p.m. Sunday, April 23 and 30; 5 p.m. Sunday, May 7; (217) 424-6318. $12-14. www.millikin.edu/kirkland.

21-23, 28-30 Theatre 7 presents “The Last Roundup of the Guacamole Queens” at Civic Center, Deca-

tur. 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, $15. Call (217) 423-2107 or theatre7.com.

21-22 Spores N’ More Mushroom Festival, Lake Shelbyville and surrounding areas. The kick-off reception in Windsor begins at 5:30 p.m. with a mushroom soup dinner. Events begin the following morning with a biscuits and gravy breakfast. Events continue throughout the day with morel hunts and auctions, food, Blessing of the Bikes and a Safety Day demonstration. Email spores@ lakeshelbyville.com. Event www. lakeshelbyville.com/events/ sporesnmore.htm

Masterworks V Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra, Millikin University Kirkland Fine Arts Center, 7:30 p.m. (217) 4246318 $12-14 www.millikin.edu/ kirkland.

22-23 Annual show, Central Illinois Gem & Mineral Club, Lester Building, Progress City, One College Park. Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-4; Adults $5, Seniors $3, Students/ Children free ; Merchants will showcase jewelry, gemstones, lapidary, beads, fossils, and mineral specimens from all over the world. Demonstrators will show silver smithing, fused glass, wire wrap, lamp work and making

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 53

cabochons. Special 4-H Day on Saturday. Hourly and Grand Door Prizes will be awarded. contact Tony Kapta, 1483 E Wood St, Decatur, IL 62521, (309) 830-6516 e-mail: cigmc@comcast.net.

Wind ensemble, Millikin University Kirkland Fine Arts Center, 4 p.m. (217) 424-6318. www.millikin.edu/kirkland.

Festival of Spring, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Rock Springs Conservation Area, 3939 Nearing Lane.

Celebrate the first day of spring with animal shows, wagon rides, astronomy programs and fishing derby. For more information, call (217) 423-7708.

Decatur Area Arts Council Corks and Forks and silent auction, Decatur Conference Center and Hotel, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

“Sweet Dreams and Honky Tonk” at the Effingham Performance Center. 7 p.m. $25-43.

1-800-745-3000 or the-epc.org.

MRI – Macon Resources Inc. Celebration Day, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. downtown Decatur, (217) 875-1910 ext. 880.

MOnticell

Spring Choral concerts, Millikin University Kirkland Fine Arts Center, 2 p.m. (217) 424-6318. $12-14. www.millikin.edu/kirkland.

Masterworks percussion ensemble, Millikin University Kirkland Fine Arts Center, 4 p.m. (217) 424-6318. $12-14. www.millikin. edu/kirkland.

MAY‌ Through August Haunted Decatur Ghost Tour, Decatur Travel throughout the city of Decatur in search of history, hauntings, crime scenes, scandals and spirits! Join us for a journey back into the history of one of America’s most haunted towns and discover not only our favorite haunted places, but new locations of crime, infamy and spirits that have never been featured on the tours before. Popular with ghost buffs and history enthusiasts alike and includes new and favorite haunted locations! Lasts approximately 3-4 hours. Tours take place on Saturdays. Call for dates & details!

(217) 791-7859

o r a i lway m u s e u m

KEVIN KILHOFFER, JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER‌

The Effingham Performance Center, 1325 Outer Belt W., Effingham, 217- 540-2788, the-epc.org, hosts a number of well-known entertainers year-round.

Downtown Bloomington Farmers Market & Artists’ Alley Every Saturday through October- Vendors, Produce, Food, & Live Music!

One Man Star Wars Trilogy at the Effingham Performance Center. 7:30 p.m. $31-43. 1-800-7453000 or the-epc.org.

4-7 Heathers: The Musical, Millikin University Kirkland Fine Arts Center, 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday,

2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m.

Sunday (217) 424-6318. $12-14. www.millikin.edu/kirkland.

Eddy Winter at the Bement Country Opry, 201 S. State, Monticello. 7 p.m. Adults $15, ages 12 and under $5. (217) 377-0550 or www.bementcountryopry.com.

Village People, Millikin University Kirkland Fine Arts Center, 7:30 p.m. (217) 424-6318. $12-14. www.millikin.edu/kirkland.

riDDe Vintage trainS eVerYY SatUrDaY S & SUnDaY - MaY tHrOUgH OCtOber Enjoy a train ride through gently rolling Illinois countryside.

Charter our Business or Dining Cars for Your Group -

Desserts, Sandwich Buffet or Complete Meals.

• Picnic Grove Gr • Steam eam trains tr one week eekend each month • Special Mother and Father ther’s Day Trains • Railroad oad Days Da in September ember • Gift shop • Display Displa Cars Located at I-72 Exit No. 166 Monticello, IL • (877) 762-9011 Visit our webpage at MRYM.org for complete fares and schedules

54 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

Celebrating OUr tH 50 anniVerSarY

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6-7 Red Carpet Corridor Festival, Pontiac; An annual celebration of Historic Route 66, from Joliet in the north to Towanda in the south, each of the 13 towns along this 90-mile stretch of the Mother Road plants its own unique events for the weekend.

Close to You: The Music of the Carpenters at the Effingham Performance Center. 7 p.m. $39-52.

1-800-745-3000 or the-epc.org.

12-13 Spring Pickers Market, Cross County Mall, Mattoon.

13-15 The Midstate Cup Soccer Tournament, Decatur. Sponsored by MidState Soccer Club and Decatur Park District, this major Central Illinois youth soccer event will bring in over 7000 fans from across the country. Money raised from the event benefits the MidState Soccer Club premier youth soccer program and complex in Decatur. Over 130 teams with boys and girls ranging in age from 7-18 will be competing for the MidState Cup trophies. Come

A line of tractors sits ready for inspection during the car, track and tractor show at Moweaqua Pow Wow days.

LISA MORRISON, HERALD & REVIEW‌

on out and help support this great program and root on the boys and girls!

450 vendors; every third Sunday through October. Visit thirdsundaymarket.com for more info.

JUNE‌

Terry Smith at the Bement Country Opry, 201 S. State, Monticello. 7 p.m. Adults $15, ages 12 and under $5. (217) 377-0550 or www.bementcountryopry.com.

18-21

Moweaqua Pow Wow Days, 6 p.m. Thursday to 5 p.m. Sunday, amusement rides, live entertainment, car show, parade, talent show.

Vince Neil at the Effingham Performance Center. 7:30 p.m. $76-343. 1-800-745-3000 or theepc.org.

First Responders parade, downtown Decatur, 10 a.m.

21-Oct. 15 3rd Sunday Market, Interstate Center, Bloomington; more than

May Days Festival. Mr. Lincoln’s Square in downtown Clinton This four day event includes Luehrs Ideal Rides Carnival, food & craft vendors, and lots of free entertainment. Contact the Chamber of Commerce office for information at 217-935-3364 or 866-4-DeWitt.

“Get Your Kicks on Route 66” Car Show, Springfield to Pontiac; Benefits the Lenore Weiss and Betty Estes Cancer Fund. www. route66carshow.com.

experience Monticello

1-4

Eric Gordon at the Bement Country Opry, 201 S. State, Monticello. 7 p.m. Adults $10, ages 12 and under $5. (217) 377-0550 or www.bementcountryopry.com.

2-3 Strawberry Jam Festival, Arthur. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (217) 5432242, www.arthuril.us/strawberry-jam-festival-1.

Monticello Chamber of Commerce 800.952.3396 | www.monticellotourism.org

Come see all that Monticello, IL has to offer:

Great shopping, restaurants, a railway Museum, and beautiful historic districts, in addition to the wonders of Allerton Park. It’s more than you imagined.

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GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 55

Pigs and Swigs Festival, Lincoln, live entertainment, car show, craft beers, barbeque cookoff. www.pigsandswigs.com.

(Grease & Grease 2).For more information, (618) 664-9272, www. greenvilleusa.org or Greenville Graffiti Car Show on Facebook.

Homer Soda Festival, Homer.

We bring together family owned bottlers from all across the country to one place where you can enjoy their family traditions of flavor and fizz. The food is high quality and unique, the vendors are all hand crafted, genuine artistic creations, reclaimed relics, and antiques. The music is Americana bluegrass/roots that has stood the test of time much like the bottlers.

23-25

6-11 Macon County Fair, fairgrounds.

Summer Flea Market, Cross County Mall, Mattoon. www. crosscountymall.com

23-24 Cerro Gordo Fat Hill Fest, downtown.

23-24 KEN TREVARTHAN, JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER‌

Fresh strawberries as well as strawberry pies are available each year during the Strawberry Jam Festival in Arthur.

8-14

qua Park, Pontiac. www.vermillionplayers.com

Decatur-Forsyth Classic, Hickory Point Golf Course, 272 Weaver Road. Players from around the U.S. and around the world compete to earn a spot on the LPGA Tour. Visit decaturforsythclassic. com.

Mariah Henderson at the Bement Country Opry, 201 S. State, Monticello. 7 p.m. Adults $10, ages 12 and under $5. (217) 377-0550 or www.bementcountryopry.com.

15-18 Summer in the Park with the Vermillion Players, at Chautau-

16-17 Juneteenth, “National Freedom Day” Celebrate, Central Park, downtown Decatur. Free.

Macon Street Fest, food vendors, beer tent, children’s activities, live music, (217) 764-3643.

Greenville Graffiti Car Show, On the Square, Greenville One of Illinois’ leading classic car and truck shows. Last year’s event attracted over 230 vehicles. This year’s special guests are Barry Williams (Greg on The Brady Bunch), Tyler Dale from American Restoration, and Eddie Deezen

Blues, Brews & BBQ Festival, Champaign Food, Drinks, & Music! Kid Friendly!

25 -July 4 Red, White & Blue Days, Morton Park, Division Street & Lincoln Avenue, Charleston. Vendors, activities, live music, Farmer of the Year and Little Mr. and Miss contests. FREE Concert- Chris Lane! For more information call (217) 345-7691 or go to www. charlestonredwhiteandblue.com.

28-August 12 Illinois Shakespeare Festival, Normal. The Illinois Shakespeare Festival exemplifies a

Shop Tuscola

There is no shortage of shopping in Tuscola! Name brands you love at Outlets at Tuscola and a vibrant artisan community downtown! Don’t forget to stop by Flesor’s Candy Kitchen for a bistro lunch and an old-fashioned soda!

For more info visit: point2tuscola.org 56 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

long-established tradition of professional theatre devoted to performing the plays of William Shakespeare. The festival has been named one of the 10 best theater festivals anywhere

by National Geographic. In addition to the mainstage show, theatre-goers can also enjoy behind the scenes tours, live jazz music, nightly Green Shows, fine art fairs and ice cream socials with the cast and crew. Spend a pleasant summer’s evening on the grassy lawn of the Festival grounds with a picnic basket, bottle of wine and great friends before the show. Find more information & buy tickets at www. illinoisshakes.com

JULY‌ Arthur Freedom Celebration fireworks, Jurgens Park, Illinois 133. The event will feature an air show with World War II aircrafts, helicopter rides and skydivers.

3-4 The Pantagraph’s Celebrate America, Bloomington- Members of the Holiday Spectacular cast will return to the Miller Park Bandstand with their Celebrate America performance. You will hear many of your old favorite patriotic songs, plus some new numbers!

4th of July Celebration, Fairview Park, Casey. Events include Clark County Shrine Club’s Fish Fry 11:30 a.m., Clark County Shrine Club Auction 1 p.m., noon to 9 p.m. numerous bands and musical entertainment at the Bandstand, fireworks display 9:15 p.m. (217) 932-2600.

4th of July Celebration, Mr. Lincoln’s Square, Downtown Clinton Fireworks at Coles County Airport at dusk. Food vendors on site.

Free admission. Handicapped parking available. Shuttle buses running from Charleston and Mattoon. Bring lawn chairs/ blankets. No personal fireworks, pets or alcoholic beverages allowed. (217) 345-7120 or www. colescountyairport.com.

J.R. Love at the Bement Country Opry, 201 S. State, Monticello. 7 p.m. Adults $10, ages 12 and under $5. (217) 377-0550 or www.bementcountryopry.com.

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

KEVIN KILHOFFER, JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER‌

The Rural Patriot, shown during the Arthur fireworks show in 2012, is a regular feature of the show in Arthur’s Jurgens Park.

Annual Latham Firefighters Ice Cream Social, Latham Fire Protection District, 271 N. Macon. 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Events include antique tractor and car show, prize drawing and musical entertainment.

artists showcase their talents in this FREE Event! Music, jewelry, paintings, and more! 12pm-6pm Rain or Shine Samantha Baker Krepton at

the Bement Country Opry, 201 S. State, Monticello. 7 p.m. Adults $10, ages 12 and under $5. (217) 377-0550 or www.bementcountryopry.com.

Rock and salvation festival, noon, Funfest Amphitheater, Effingham. (217) 540-2788. www.

RackAndSalvationFestival.com. $29-$149.

12-16 Summer in the Park, Vermillion Players at Chautauqua Park, Pontiac. www.vermillionplayers.com

15-16 American Cancer Society Macon County Relay for Life, 6 p.m. Friday to 6 a.m. Saturday, Richland Community College. www.RelayForLife.org

18-22 Bagelfest, Peterson Park, Mattoon, 500 Broadway Avenue.

Performers include American Idol Trent Harmon. Bagelfest kicks off with a carnival. The weekend will continue with the Miss Bagelfest and Beautiful Baby contests, food vendors, local and national music, www. mattoonbagelfest.com Mackinaw Valley Vineyard Art & Wine Festival, Mackinaw Valley Vineyard, Mackinaw; local

• Dr. Comfort Diabetic Shoes • Hallmark • Fanny May Candies • Willow Tree Angels * Yankee Candles • Home Decor • Collectibles • Jewelry • Photo Lab/1 Hour or Next Day Service

Low Price & Friendly Faces www.savmor.com

104 E. Southline Road (Rt. 36) Tuscola, IL 61953 217-253-2309

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 57

Ted Nugent, Effingham Performance Center. 7:30 p.m. $49.

1-800-745-3000.

30-August 8 Coles County Fair, Charleston, IL

AUGUST‌ 2-6 McLean County Fair, Interstate Center, Bloomington; largest 4-H fair in country; carnival, food, entertainment.

3-6 Decatur Celebration, downtown. The Midwest’s most exciting street festival with eight show stages featuring national and emerging music artists, carnival, arts and crafts, over 60 unique food vendors and the Razzle Dazzle Parade. For more information, call (217) 423-4222 or decaturcelebration.com/home.

10-12 Blue Mound Fall Festival, Wise Park, Blue Mound. For more information, call (217) 692-2713.

10-20 Illinois State Fair, Illinois State Fairgrounds, Springfield. Events include carnival rides, entertainment, concerts, food, vendors, exhibits, and competitions. For information, call (217) 782-6661.

Annual Bluegrass Jam, Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site, Charleston- 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The 39th annual Bluegrass Jam Session will be held at Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site on Sunday, August 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bluegrass and traditional musicians from Illinois and Indiana will converge at the site for an afternoon of jamming. There will be no formal stage performances, informal groups of musicians will jam throughout the afternoon. The musicians will play in the shaded area near the site’s main parking lot and visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs to relax in the shade and enjoy the sounds of bluegrass music in the park, concessions will be available.

Happy Together Tour, Effingham Performance Center. 1-800745-3000. $49-$64.

18-19 Apple Dumpling Festival, downtown Atwood. For more information, call (217) 578-2512.

Carla Ferris Knowles and Judy Ferris Edwards share some information and head gear during their trip to Decatur Celebration.

18-20 Windsor Harvest Picnic, Come and enjoy this family-friendly festival in its 121st year. Entertainment comes to you in gospel, country and rock. Fountain City Amusements provides a carnival atmosphere with plenty of food as well as the Ice Cream Social.

There is also a 5K run/walk, a pedal tractor pull, parade, and a raffle drawing.

Taste of Champaign-Urbana, Friday 5-11 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.—11 p.m. West Side Park This event will feature food from some of Champaign-Urbana’s best restaurants and local beers from your favorite breweries.

Come out to discover new food and beer while enjoying highquality music & entertainment!

24-25 Lincoln Art and Balloon Festival, Logan County airport. A community-wide event with art and barbeque contest, music, wine tasting, car show and hot air balloons. www.lincolnillinois. com/tourism/lincoln-balloonfestival/

25-26 Brüegala, annual charity beer and wine festival run by the Bloomington-Normal Jaycees.

Each year, the B-N Jaycees work with several non-profits to organize Bruegala and raise funds for

58 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

those selected charities. Bruegala has over 300 beers; 100 wines, multiple food vendors, and lots of music. It is certainly not is an event not to be missed. Please visit www.bruegala.com for more!

25-27 Cowden Pioneer Days in City Park, rodeo, mud drags, food vendors, magic show, petting zoo, rides.

End of Summer flea market, Cross County Mall, Mattoon.

29-31 Farm Progress Show, Richland Community College Progress Show.

SEPTEMBER‌ 1-3 Arthur Cheese Festival, downtown. The event will have a tractor pull, parade, National Cheese Eating Contest. Free cheese will also be available. www.arthurcheesefestival.com.

2-4 Casey Popcorn Festival Fairview Park. The event offers 1,500 pounds of free popcorn, carnival, crafts and music. www. popcornfestival.net, call (217) 232-2676.

Finder’s Market, Decatur Conference Center and Hotel. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Arthur Cheese Festival, Downtown Arthur. All weekend long!The event will have a tractor pull, parade, National Cheese Eating Contest. Free cheese will also be available. www.arthurcheesefestival.com

2-4 Casey Popcorn Festival Fairview Park. 1,500 pounds of free popcorn, carnival, crafts and music. www.popcornfestival.net.

8-9 CIL-Con, Mattoon- CIL-Con 2017 has several Special Events in the works from our first ever Haunted House to Breaking Fate Wrestling! We have a large variety of gaming, paranormal, anime and entertainment. Featured guests actors and actresses to novelists and authors can be found on the website at www.cil-con.com

8-10 Arcola Broom Corn Festival, Main Street, downtown. The event will have broom activities, food, a parade with the Lawn Rangers and more. For more information, 217268-4530 or www.chamber.com

9-Oct. 31 The Great Pumpkin Patch, 9 a.m.—6 p.m. The Great Pumpkin Patch is proud to invite guests to see over 300 varieties of pumpkins, squash and gourds from over 30 countries around the JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

world. Featuring several goats, pigs, exotic chickens, rabbits, a llama and an alpaca. There are several places to eat and drink on the farm and lots of entertainment on the weekends.

14-17 Corvette Funfest, Effingham.

The Largest Corvette Party in the World will celebrate the 1967 Corvette Sting Ray. Corvette Funfest attracts thousands of Corvette Enthusiasts from around the country, as well as internationally, with four full days of activities designed to promote the Corvette hobby. For more info, visit www.corvettefunfest.com

18-26 Cumberland County Fair, Greenup. Thoroughbred and harness races, tractor pulls, 4-H shows, musical entertainment, demolition derby and a carnival for the kids. For more information, www. cumberlandcountyfair.com.

Harvest Frolic Fall Celebration, Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Come celebrate the arrival of autumn at the Harvest Frolic on Saturday

and Sunday, September 26 and 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Don’t miss experiencing 19th century life on the farm! Activities will take place at both the Lincoln and Sargent farms and will include children’s games, craft and doll making, and hearth cooking. Visitors are encouraged to take part in period games and activities. Volunteers will demonstrate apple cider pressing, and food preservation. A number of artisans will be on site demonstrating their crafts including, woodcarving, flax processing, soap making, embroidery, pottery, basket weaving, blacksmithing, wheat weaving, and tatting. Gerry Barker will bring his oxen, the Unreconstructed Civil War Band will perform, and be sure to catch the puppet show. Don’t miss the Frolic 5K! A 5k run and mile walk to kick off the festivities on September 26! Registration details will be added at a later date.

OCTOBER‌ 7-9 Scarecrow Daze Festival, During the Annual Scarecrow

Daze Festival, the entire city of Shelbyville is decorated with scarecrows. With a different theme every year, entrants decorate their homes and businesses to the theme. There is also a large parade on Saturday, kids’ games, a beer tent, music, a quilt show, and plenty of food and crafts, in downtown Shelbyville.

Torchlight Halloween Hike, Pumpkin Carving Contest, and Wiener Roast, 6-9 p.m. Join us for our Torchlight Halloween Hike and Wiener Roast where you. won’t want to miss the chance to enjoy Lincoln Log Cabin in the dark! We will start at the Visitor Center for a bonfire and wiener roast. Bring out your best carved pumpkin by 6:00 pm and visitors will judge the best carvings and prizes will be awarded. You will also want to hike the paths between our historic farms by torchlight to hear storytellers in the Lincoln Cabin and Sargent House there to entertain guests with seasonal stories. Enjoy live music as you sit around the fire. To benefit the educational and interpretative

programs of Lincoln Log Cabin, the Foundation will be selling hotdogs and s’mores for you to roast over an open fire, and hot cider for drinking.

27-29 Fall Flea Market, Cross County Mall, Mattoon

NOVEMBER‌ 3-5 Sports Card Show, Cross County Mall, Mattoon

10-12 Christmas Craft Show, Cross County Mall, Mattoon

DECEMBER‌ Christmas in the Heart of Charleston, Courthouse Square, 5:00 p.m.—7:00 p.m. Holiday parade, carriage rides, refreshments, window displays, entertainment, photos with Santa and much more. Parade starts at 5 pm. Check out our event page on Facebook under “Christmas in the Heart of Charleston”. For more information please call (217) 348-0430.

THE LITTLE THEATRE ON THE SQUARE Summer 2017 Sullivan

June 7-18

June 21-July 2

July 19-30

Aug. 2-20

July 5-16

June 9, 10, 13, 15 - 17

July 7, 8, 11, 13 - 15

Aug. 23-Sept. 3

Season Tickets: Regular Season - $167 • Flex Season - $177.50 Single Tickets: $37.50 - Adults • $35.40 - Seniors (ages 62+) • $21.75 - Students (under 22) August 4, 5, 8, 10 - 12

Season Tickets: $28.05 Single Tickets: $10.40 - Children (under 13) & $12.50 - Adults

JG-TC · HERALD & REVIEW · PANTAGRAPH

To Purchase Tickets 217-728-7375 or www.thelittletheatre.org LITTLE

THEATRE.

BIG TALENT.

GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018 59

The picturesque Moultrie County Courthouse is located in Sullivan.

! e r e h e r e w u o y h s i W

an serves as the Broadway,” Sulliv & s, ie Little gg Bu , ts “Boa is home to The ltrie County and ou M l) of na at io se ss ty fe coun ty (pro re, the only Equi ua Sq e Th n In O e s.

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Boats

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www.sullivan-chamber.com - (217) 728-4223 60 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

-

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SWEET HOME SULLIVAN

PHOTOS BY KEVIN KILHOFFER, JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER

Sullivan Elementary School fifth-graders swim at the Sullivan Civic Center in Sullivan.

Wyman Park Lake in Sullivan is one of the town’s best-kept secrets for visitors.

It’s located just blocks north of Illinois Route 16.

GEMS ANNUAL QUILT SHOW

www.gemsoftheprairie.com August 26th & 27th, 2017 Saturday, 9am - 5pm Sunday, 11am - 4 pm

CIVIC CENTER PEORIA, IL

201 SW Jefferson, Hall C FEATURING

400+ quilts, 20+ Vendors, Tools & Techniques Demos, Bed Turnings, Raffle Quilt, Silent Auction & Boutique Certified Quilt Appraiser The Little Theatre on the Square is one of the biggest attractions in small-town Sullivan in Central Illinois.

Admission $7 2-Day Pass $10 Free Parking - Mention Quilt Show Lunch & Snacks Available

Central IllInoIs FaIrs Champaign Co. Fair 7/21/17-7/29/17 Phone: 217-367-8461 Christian Co. Ag. Fair 7/29/17-7/29/17 Phone: 217-820-6870 Clark Co. Fair 8/13/17-8/20/17 Phone: 217-822-8834 Coles County Fair 7/30/17-8/6/17 Phone: 217-348-1219 Cumberland Co. Fair 7/24/17-7/29/17 Phone: 217-923-1507 Edgar Co. Fair 7/22/17-7/29/17 Phone: 217-466-0905 Ford Co. Fair of Melvin 6/25/17-7/1/17 Phone: 217-379-2920

Iroquois Co. & 4-H Club Fair 7/19/17-7/24/17 Phone: 815-457-2947 Kankakee Co. Fair 8/2/17-8/6/17 Phone: 815-932-6714 Livingston Co. & Ag Fair 7/19/17-7/22/17 Phone: 815-842-2650 Macon Co. Fair 6/8/17-6/11/17 Phone: 217-875-0135

Moultrie-Sullivan Jr. Fair 7/28/17-7/29/17 Phone: 217-728-8991 Piatt Co. Fair 6/18/17-6/19/17 Phone: 217-855-4900 Shelby Co. 4-H & Jr. Fair 7/10/17-7/27/17 Phone: 217-246-2495 Vermillion Co. Fair & Expo 6/21/17-6/25/17 Phone: 217-765-3706

McLean County Fair 8/2/17-8/6/17 Phone: 309-663-6497 Moultrie-Douglas Co. Fair 7/9/17-7/15/17 Phone: 217-840-4163

Illinois State Fair 8/10/17-8/20/17 Phone: 217-782-6661

To see all Illinois Fairs for 2017, visit www.agr.state.il.us/fair 62 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

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Illinois

Tourist Information Centers 1 Prairie View North I-57 Rest Area-Northbound North of Peotone Entrance Monee, IL 60449 309.255.9389

2 Prairie View South I-57 Rest Area-Southbound South of Monee Exit Monee, IL 60449 309.255.6010

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3 CumberlaNd road I-70 Rest Area-Westbound Route 3 Marshall, IL 62441 217.826.3400

Salt Kettle I-74 Westbound Oakwood, IL 61858 217.354.2117

5 Fort maSSaC 5402 Highway 45 South Metropolis, IL 62960 618.524.4350

6 trail oF tearS I-57 Rest Area-Northbound Anna, IL 62906 618.833.4809

7 reNd laKe South 78S I-57 Southbound Whittington, IL 62897 618.629.2774

8 reNd laKe North 80N I-57 Northbound Whittington, IL 62897 618.435.4155

9 SilVer laKe I-70 Rest Area-Eastbound Highland, IL 62249 618.654.6597

10 old State CaPitol 1 SW Old State Capitol Plaza Springfield, IL 62701 217.557.4588

homeStead I-55 Rest Area-Northbound Hamel, IL 62046 618.633.1875

12 miSSiSSiPPi raPidS Interstate 80 Rest Area-Eastbound Rapids City, IL 61278 309.496.2124

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13 turtle CreeK 1 Interstate 90 Rest Area-Southbound South Beloit, IL 61080 815.389.4134

64 GETAWAY GUIDE TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2017-2018

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