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May 2015 ■ Summer Travel Guide ■ GateHouse Media Illinois
Table of Contents Aledo Band Shell and Rhubarb Festival ....................3 & 4 Andover, celebrating an old community ..........................6 Cambridge, demolition derby and car show ....................7 Chris Cagle to perform ........................................................9 Canton Cruise-In ................................................................11 Chilliocothe’s ZorroFest and Three Sisters Park ............12 Colchester, Macomb outdoor recreation ........................14 East Peoria annual fishing tourney ..................................15 Galesburg places to visit and Lake Storey ............17 & 18 Bishop Hill and Galva Craft Show ..................................19 Geneseo Trains, Planes & Automobiles ..........................22 Geneseo music festival and Atkinson tractor show ......24
Galva Fourth of July celebration......................................26 Geneseo farm show............................................................29 Fulton Co. scenic drive ......................................................32 Monmouth Cruise Night and pottery show ..........33 & 37 Fort Madison, Iowa, events ..............................................38 Morton BBQ and pumpkin fest ......................................40 Mt. Sterling sites to see ....................................................43 Tazwell County Museum ..................................................46 Orion baseball celebration................................................48 Peoria Red, White Boom ..................................................50 Washington and its history ....................................50 & 52 Regional Calendar of Events ......................................56-62
GateHouse Media Illinois ■ Summer Travel Guide ■ May 2015
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A band shell for the ages Town's venue to host variety of summer entertainment By Robert Blackford Times Record
ALEDO — If you build it …. OK, it's not exactly a baseball field, but it is something to draw people to come. The Aledo Band Shell recently held its 10th annual grand opening ceremony. The band shell came from a conversation between Rhubarb Festival founder and Mercer County High School band di-
rector, Rusty Ruggles. Prior to the band shell, entertainers often performed on the back of a flatbed truck or on the grass in the park. For the last 10 years, the festival had the band shell to host its musical guests and other entertainment. While the band shell is used a lot during the Rhubarb Festival, it gets used a lot during the summer as well. "There are still people
TIMES RECORD FILE PHOTO
Members of the Myrna Rae Dancers perform on the Aledo Band Shell.
in town that don't know we have music here every Thursday night," Ruggles said. The band shell plays host to a concert series nearly every Thursday night during the summer. This year there is an Elvis impersonator, Nearly Elvis, as
well as a Christian Concert and The Don't Be Brothers Irish Band. Ruggles said he has tried to schedule a variety of entertainment for the summer. While there are many local entertainers who enjoy performing at the band
shell, the schedule peaked in 2009 with the addition of Grammy Award-winning musician Suzy Bogguss and her band. Ruggles described attending events at the band shell as the typical smalltown experience, what people expect when they
think of a small town. The Fourth of July stood out in Ruggles' mind. The day starts with the annual frog races followed by the Mercer County Community Band performing in the band shell, an ice cream social and later that night, fireworks.
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May 2015 ■ Summer Travel Guide ■ GateHouse Media Illinois
Festival highlights the joys of Rhubarb By Robert Blackford Times Record
TIMES RECORD FILE PHOTO
Carson Kellett holds his record-setting big leaf from big leaf contest held at the Rhubarb Festival.
ALEDO — From its humble beginnings in Darlene Johnson's kitchen to the two-day festival it is now, Rhubarb Fest in Aledo remains the county's biggest attraction of the year. The festival is always the first full weekend in June, which this year lies on June 5 and 6. It's is a free festival based around, but not limited to, the love of Rhubarb. A big blue tent will be set up in Aledo's Central Park from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. In the tent visitors will be able to sample rhubarb treats free of
charge. Rhubarb pies will abound. More than 4,000 were sold at last year's festival. Besides the tasting tent there is a craft/flea and antique show at the Central Park parking lot for two days. On Saturday, the courtyard will add more than 100 other quality vendors. The Aledo Band Shell is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. As always there will be entertainment in the band shell for the festival. Friday's lineup includes: Fry Dadies from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.; River City from 1 to 3 p.m. and Downtown Rockin' Daddies (Country Swing) from 3 to 5 p.m. On Saturday, the Mercer
County High School Jazz Band will perform from 10 a.m. until noon; Ellis Kell and friends will preform from noon until 2 p.m. and the Myrna Rae Dancers will be on hand from 2 to 5 p.m. RHUBARB RUN
The festival is a good place for runners as well. The YMCA will host a 5K run/walk, the Rhubarb Run, at 8 a.m. Saturday. Following the run/walk there will be A Little Sprouts sprint and a one mile fun run. There are other contests as well. The Rhubarb Recipe contest will be held under the Big Blue Tent at 11 a.m. At 1 p.m., the big leaf contest will be
judged. Bring your largest rhubarb leaf for judging. There are several events for children. Alley Art starts at 9:30 a.m. Children will be given their own set of paints with their own spot on the street to create a work of art. There will be a bounce house and face painting from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday. FOOD
While individuals are free to try the rhubarb dishes under the big blue tent their will also be several other options for food. On Friday the United Methodist Church will have a luncheon from 11 See RHUBARB — page 9
GateHouse Media Illinois ■ Summer Travel Guide ■ May 2015
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May 2015 ■ Summer Travel Guide ■ GateHouse Media Illinois
Annual festival celebrates oldest community in Henry Co. Themed parade, youth pageant, cemetery walk among activities By Mindy Carls Orion Gazette
ANDOVER — Andover, the oldest community in Henry County, will hold its 180th Anniversary Festival the weekend of Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7. The Eighth Kansas volunteers will stage Civil War re-enactments on both days at Andover Lake Park. An antique lawn and farm tractor show also will be held on both days. To enter, phone Ron Jacobsen at 309-521-7262. Two artists will demonstrate their skills on Saturday. Kendall Davis of Rock Island makes boomerangs, and Sam Schold of Sherrard makes handcrafted guitars and ukuleles from cigar boxes. Davis will show and demonstrate boomerangs on the lawn of the Andover Historical Society Museum from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. He has been making and selling boomerangs since 1975.
Schold will be at the American Woman’s League Building from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. making music on one-of-a-kind, handcrafted guitars and ukuleles. He makes them himself, using Spanish cedar cigar boxes for the guitar body. Crafting one usually takes 14 hours over two days. The Mississippi Bend Model Boaters will pilot their model boats on Andover Lake. At 1 p.m., a parade will celebrate the theme “Looking to the future, remembering the past.” Parade registration will begin at 11:30 a.m. Prize categories for adults include Best of Theme, Best Float, Best Band, Best Horse Unit, Most Unique Tractor and Most Unique Car. Children’s prizes include Most Unique Walkers, Most Original Costume, Best Decorated Bike and Best Pet Entry. To enter, send a message to parade@jeffselander.com. A Little Miss and Mr. Andover contest for ages
5 to 9 will begin at 4 p.m., with all entrants eligible to ride in a special unit in the parade earlier in the day. To enter the contest, phone Patsy Crippen at 309-521-8208. At dusk, fireworks will go off over the lake. On Sunday, tug-of-war contests will begin at 1 p.m., with registration at noon. For more information, phone Joe Larson at 309-714-0695. A cemetery walk will be held at Jenny Lind Chapel from 2 to 4 p.m. Other events include: -Both Saturday and Sunday — Barn quilt tour, -Only Saturday — Fun run and walk, children’s fishing derby, quilt show, homemade pie and sandwich stand, children’s fun land, Blackhawk Pipes and Drums concert, pork chop supper and ice cream social, Orion Community Band concert, raffle drawing and Uncle Buster’s comedy show, -Only Sunday — Breakfast and noon lunch in the park, community worship service in the park, salute to veterans, and blessing of pets.
GAZETTE FILE PHOTO
During the More Fun on 81 Festival each year, Andover celebrates its Swedish heritage. At the 2014 festival, Peter Ellersten of Springfield demonstrated folk instruments such as the psalmodikon and hummel. The 2015 festival on Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7, will celebrate the 180th anniversary of the village's founding. It is the oldest community in Henry County.
This year’s festival includes a high school challenge. Area high school students are invited to see which school is picked as best in two separate events, the parade and the
tug-of-war contest. The winning highschool entry in the parade will receive $200 for a special project in the school, or for a favorite charity in the community.
At the tug of war, one division will be for boys and one for girls. To enter, send a message to andovertourismcoucil.com. Visitors should bring their own lawn chairs.
GateHouse Media Illinois ■ Summer Travel Guide ■ May 2015
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Henry County
Demolition derby, car show to rev up fairgrounds By Elizabeth Buzard Cambridge Chronicle
CAMBRIDGE — The annual Jackie Carey English Demolition Derby and Car Show will take place on Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Henry County Fairgrounds. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Honor Flight of the Quad Cities. The demolition derby will include four classes of cars: 80 and newer wire, open wire, weld class and small car. There are prizes for each class, and riders are
allowed in all classes except small cars. Check-in for the derby will be at 11 a.m. with the demolition derby starting at 2 p.m. For more information on the demolition derby, call Rick Dobbels at 309-507-1974 or Chad Kinsey at 309-737-8736. The car show is open to all antique or modern cars, trucks and motorcycles. Car show check-in begins at 9:30 a.m., and the show will be from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For more information on the car show, call Jerri Curtis at 309-945-2888.
Along with the demolition derby and car show, the day will include a derby for youth on battery-operated riding toys and a vendor and craft show. For more information on the youth demolition derby, call Rhonda Rusk at 309945-5291, and to have a vendor or craft booth, call Jackie at 309-507-2253 or Tonya at 309-781-0314. The event will also feature a vintage patriotic pin-up contest, music, food, children's activities and a 50/50 drawing. A See DERBY — page 26
CHRONICLE FILE PHOTO
Cars collide on the track in front of the grandstand at the Henry County Fairgrounds in Cambridge during the Jackie Carey English Demolition Derby and Car Show last September.
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GateHouse Media Illinois ■ Summer Travel Guide ■ May 2015
Cagle band will take Henry Co. Fair stage
High-energy country group to perform Friday, June 26 By Elizabeth Buzard Cambridge Chronicle
CAMBRIDGE — Country music artist Chris Cagle will perform live in concert with the Cal Stage Band at the 2015 Henry County Fair. The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, June 26 at the Henry County Fairgrounds with the gates opening at 6 p.m. Tickets are on sale and can be purchased at www.henrycountyfairil .com. The Cal Stage Band is a high energy country and
rock band based out of the Midwest. They have traveled the U.S. and have had the privilege of sharing the stage with country acts such as Rascal Flatts, Keith Urban, Hank Williams Jr., and many more. Chris Cagle was born in DeRidder, La., and raised “all over.” He set off for Nashville after trying his hand at college in Texas and finding the pull to pursue music too strong to ignore. Chris was signed to Virgin Records in 2000, and his first album featured the unal-
tered version of his demo songs. Chris quickly earned critical and commercial success and attracted a legion of fans that included industry heavyweights and country fans alike. His first number one smash, “I Breathe In, I Breathe Out,” remains a fan favorite. For Cagle, the professional success and sales were gratifying, but his personal life blistered under the spotlight. He bowed out and retreated to Marietta, Okla., where he could distance himself from the industry, reconnect with his roots and take back control of his life.
He spent the next couple of years staking his claim on home life and embracing a lifelong dream: building his family’s home, “Big Horse Ranch,” with his own two hands. Chris also met his wife Kay who he describes in the song “Let There Be Cowgirls.” He also found a new identity as a father with the birth of his daughter in 2010. Cagle’s 2012 release from Bigger Picture Group, under the working title, “Back in the Saddle,” is his homecoming, a rekindling of his creative flame and a roaring reminder of his rock-infused country roots. This Chris Cagle may
look a little different to those who are used to a louder, harder-partying version of the star. Chris still gets “as rowdy as a redneck can get,” but these days he confines himself to a smaller space–the 40’ by 40’ stage. And when the show’s over, he puts on a different hat and heads back to hearth and home. It is there that Chris has found balance and a new passion. “I’m at a place in my life where I think about everyone I’m working with, especially the fans,” Cagle said. “I thank God that I’m in a place in my heart where I am grateful and aware. I am very, very, very lucky.”
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RHUBARB Continued from page 4
a.m. until 1:30 p.m. The First Baptist Church youth will serve pie and ice cream dessert at the Central Park pavilion from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. On Saturday, The Methodists will be at it again with a lunch from 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. The Masonic Lodge's yearly fish fry is from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. Saturday at the new fire station. The Mercer County Historical Society will be serving a rhubarb desert there as well. Next year's festival is scheduled for June 3 and 4. It will be the 25th anniversary of the festival. Aledo has been recognized as the Rhubarb Capitol of the State of Illinois.
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May 2015 ■ Summer Travel Guide ■ GateHouse Media Illinois
GateHouse Media Illinois ■ Summer Travel Guide ■ May 2015
Canton to 'Cruise-in' More visitors than ever expected By Hannah Schrodt Daily Ledger
CANTON — The Canton Area Chamber of Commerce's annual Cruise-In
brings in thousands of visitors to downtown Canton during the summer, and organizers say this year's event will include more than ever. Harriett Williams, chair of the Cruise-In Committee, said the show sees an estimated 4,000 people, with
last year seeing a recordbreaking 6,000 visitors. More than 350 cars and 100 motorcycles are on display each year. Visitors come from all across Illinois, with some traveling from Galesburg, Altona, Monticello, Cambridge and Sherman. It is always held the Friday before Father's Day
around Canton's square. The Cruise-In began as an event by a car club and was eventually given to the Canton Chamber. Former Canton Mayor Don Edwards, who was
mayor when the Cruise -n started in 1991, said the car club approached him about hosting a car show. The idea was then presented to the chamber and the city passed a resolution to close the streets around the square for the annual event, Edwards said. "It's probably one of the better things we did for the community," Edwards noted. "It's been very successful." The Cruise-In has always had awards. This year's will include Best of Show, or Mayor's Choice, chosen by Canton Mayor Jeff Fritz, Committee's Choice for vehicles 1949 and older chosen by the committee, and Sponsor's Choice for ve-
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hicles 1950 and newer chosen by the Cruise-In's main sponsors Heartland Health Care and Foulk Electric. The motorcycle awards include Best Custom Bike, Best Sport Bike and Best Bagger. Since its conception, the Cruise-In has only grown and expanded. Williams said the event now includes balloon artists, inflatables, mimes and other related activities to make the Cruise-In family friendly. Motorcycles were added to the show a few years ago. Williams adds that this year's 24th Annual CruiseIn will feature 3-D Sound See CRUISE — page 26
DAILY LEDGER FILE PHOTO
Visitors flocked downtown to the square and surrounding streets, including Bernard Royer (left), of Canton, who showed his grandson, Abraham, the engine of a 1967 Chevrolet Camaro.
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ZorroFest
Three Sisters Park a boon for summer entertainment
Character developed by native showcased By Dylan Polk Times Newspapers
CHILLICOTHE — Chillicotheans may see a lot of dark, handsome men swashbuckling around town in preparation for a new event. ZorroFest is capitalizing on the fact that the creator of the Zorro character, Johnston McCulley, is a 1901 Chillicothe High School graduate. Add that to the claim that Zorro was the first superhero as written in the “The Curse of Capistrano” in 1919, and a new parade idea emerged — a
superhero parade, where both children and adults can dress up as superheroes. “It’s a theme parade that nobody else has around central Illinois,” said Dave Hirtz, who is spearheading the event. He envisions 15 men dressed as the black-clad Zorro in the parade, followed by children ages 6 and up dressed as their favorite superheroes, mascots from sports teams and businesses, followed by “real” heroes, such as veterans, historical figures, See ZORRO — page 23
By Dylan Polk Times Newspapers
COURTESY PHOTO
The Zorro mannequin pictured above has long been used as a promotional tool for the upcoming ZorroFest in June in Chillicothe.
CHILLICOTHE — There’s no shortage of entertainment at Three Sisters Park throughout the calendar year. In summer, the park, located at 17189 State Route 29 in Chillicothe, hosts the Summer Camp Music Festival, a threeday rock and roll campout that was named by Rolling Stone one of the top 40 music festivals in the United States. And starting this summer, the park will host
the Country Life Music Festival, an event that made the move from Peoria’s Ravina on the Lakes. Though he never envisioned Three Sisters Park as an entertainment destination drawing names like Willie Nelson, Toby Keith, Zac Brown Band, Jane’s Addiction and Steve Miller, Three Sisters general manager Chris Cassidy said the park’s unique setting is a major selling point for such festivals and events. In nearly a quarter of a decade, the park’s in-
See PARK — page 28
GateHouse Media Illinois ■ Summer Travel Guide ■ May 2015
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McDonough Co. offers variety of outdoor recreation By Jacqueline Covey McDonough Co. Voice
MCDONOUGH CO. – "It's so close to Macomb, but you definitely feel like you're in the middle of nowhere out here," Lakeview Nature Center assistant, Esther Young, said in April of walking the facility when grasses grow over the head. Those 350 acres, located off North 1500th Road, sit adjacent from Spring Lake Park. Together, the lands make up 1,550 acres with intermingling trails. McDonough County has nearly 3,342 acres completely devoted to outdoor recreation Playing outside is a way people reconnect to the world; it has proven time
again its bountiful benefits to the human condition. "By observing nature, we get to see how creation was intended to be – in a slower pace," Young said. "And we're reminded to breathe and to take life as it is, to live in the moment and to experience community with those that we recreate with." Lakeview and Spring Lake are just two of the outdoor sites within McDonough County. Horn Field Campus, 985 China Road in Macomb, and Colchester's Argyle Lake State Park, located at 640 Argyle Park Road, also add to the county's comprised outdoor options. Western Illinois University's Horn Field Campus,
a 92-acre educational environment, is a reservationonly facility that offers numerous team building programs, including high wires and challenge courses, as well as hiking trails – for those intending on a long stay. Any group can earmark the lodge for $30 a day and cabins for $25 a day at the adventure recreation reserve. "It's a great outdoor classroom, and also a retreat center for human growth and development using nature as a background," said Mindy Pheiffer, program coordinator. She also said that the "intimacy" of the small acreage See REC — page 36
JACQUELINE COVEY/THE VOICE
Western Illinois University’s Horn Field Campus is one of just a few major recreational opportunities in McDonough County.
GateHouse Media Illinois ■ Summer Travel Guide ■ May 2015
Carp e diem Fish will fly at annual East Peoria tourney By Jeanette Kendall Times Newspapers
EAST PEORIA — On July 11, the Illinois River near the banks of East Peoria will be filled with boats and people hunting Asian carp during the second annual Flying Fish Festival and Bowfishing Tournament. Rick Swan, director of the East Peoria Chamber of Commerce, said the event developed partly through economic development efforts. “There’s a great interest on what to do with it, the
fish itself. ... There’s an abundance of them. They continue to multiply. I think they multiply three or four times a year. ... It came out of them invading the Great Lakes, so there’s been a more keen awareness of the fish,” Swan said. Swan said there are several uses for the fish. “We had a guy from Chicago actually come down from Chinatown. ... The head is a delicacy. They make Asian soup out of it,” Swan said. There is also discussion of a fish processing plant
being located in the area. Union Sportsmen’s Alliance puts on the Flying Fish Festival and many other local businesses are involved, including the East Peoria Chamber of Commerce. It’s a community effort and we kind of pull things together,” said Swan. The top prize for the tournament is $2,500, with a total of $7,500 in prize money that will be distributed between five places. The event is over three days with a welcome reception and a Spirit of Peoria river tour July 9, and a conference from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 10 with keynote speakers at the Peoria Riverfront Museum, 222 SW Washington St., in Peoria. Gov. Bruce Rauner has been invited to the conference. See CARP — page 27
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FRED ZWICKY/JOURNAL STAR
The Flying Fish Bowfishing Tournament in East Peoria is similar to the Redneck Fishing Tournament in Bath, pictured. Fisherman in Bath try to catch Asian carp, a breed of fish that jumps into the air when provoked. Thousands of the invasive species were caught in nets as boaters of all experience levels hit the water last year.
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May 2015 ■ Summer Travel Guide ■ GateHouse Media Illinois
GateHouse Media Illinois ■ Summer Travel Guide ■ May 2015
Lake Storey a true treasure in Knox County The Register-Mail
GALESBURG — Lake Storey Park has a long standing with local history, and a strong connection to Galesburg's steam locomotives. Lake Storey is definitely one of Galesburg's finest attributes. The history of the lake goes back to the city's first settlers, which arrived in Galesburg on June 2, 1836. There were 25 settlers, led by Nehemiah West, which built temporary cabins in Log City, which is located by Lake Storey. It was agreed that they would not build log cabins inside the town limits. The farms were purchased for $5 per acre. Later they built frame houses and moved in town. The Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad brought the first railroad to Galesburg in 1854, bringing growth to the city and economy. Railroads have been a large part of Galesburg ever since; and how Lake Storey originated. Lake Storey is actually a man-made lake, built by the Santa Fe Railroad in 1927, for the purpose of providing water for steam locomotives. The lake provided water to Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad yards with the use of electrically driven remote control pumps and pipeline. The lake was 52feet at the deepest depth, with a capacity of 700 million gallons of water; consisting of nine miles of shoreline. Santa Fe Railway leased land from the city for $1 a
year for 20 years. Cook O'Brien Construction Company was employed to build the spillway in 1928. It was said that there were old coal mines in the valley where the lake currently sits, and that concrete was used to fill them in. Lake Storey was named to honor W.B. Storey, who was the president of the Santa Fe Railway from 1920 to 1933. The Lake Storey Pavilion was built at a cost of $46,000, with a dedication ceremony in September 1930. The pavilion still has much of the original features, including the original fireplace. Alderman Dr. W.H. Maley was the master of ceremonies, along with Mayor Max Mack and the former mayor, Henry G. Hawkinson. The Santa Fe Railway presented the lake to the City of Galesburg in 1952, since the railroad had switched to diesel engines. Galesburg then developed Lake Storey Park into a recreational area with a $150,000 bond issue. This included ornamental lighting, roads, boat houses, beaches and playgrounds. Funds for the sand beach area in front of the pavilion were donated by Mr. and Mrs. O.N. Custer. It is also important to note that the first settlers were anti-slavery advocates and were involved in the Underground Railroad. This is ironic because there is evidence that there was segregation at Lake Storey. There were two beaches
built around Lake Storey; one on the north side and one on the south side. Each had their own bathhouse. Lake Storey has 386 acres of park land, with the largest appeal being the 130-acre lake. It has grown to be a recreational attraction. Surrounding Lake Storey is a 2.65 mile hiking/biking trail, Allison Campground, boat ramps, picnic areas with shelters, ball fields, playgrounds, paddle boats, water slide, beach, and the magnificent Lake Storey Pavilion. There is even a shooting range for the Police Department, as well as a parks waste facility. Lake Storey also remains a popular site for the fishing sport and has been know to have record breaking Muskie fish. The Lake Storey Beach and Pavilion were renovated in 2001 at a cost of $1.6 million. The Lake Storey Pavilion can seat a maximum of 400 people for a meeting and 250 people for a dinner. It has become a popular site for workshops, conventions, meetings, reunions, graduation events and many wedding events. In the summer, rent a row boat, canoe or paddle boat to tour the lake, enjoy the water slide or play a game of horseshoes at any of the 24 courts in Lincoln Park. For more on Lake Storey and its amenities, call the City of Galesburg Recreation Division at 309-345-3683 or visit www.ci.galesburg.il.us.
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Galesburg PLACES TO VISIT
The Register-Mail
GALESBURG — The Galesburg area offers plenty for visitors. Here's a look at things to do and see when visiting the Galesburg area.
Seminary Street Historic Commercial District 309-342-1000 or visit www.seminarystreet.com Seminary Street is one of the Midwest's stunning success stories in downtown restoration. Buildings once nearly abandoned
now thrive with restaurants, distinctive specialty shops, a day spa, coffee roastery and a bakery. A warm welcome awaits visitors under the awnings on Seminary Street. Discover independent, owner-operated shops that offer friendly, personal service. Antiques and collectibles from some of's the Midwest's finest dealers can be found at The Galesburg Antiques Mall Co. Housed in an elegant 1890s three-story building which has been completely restored on the corner of Main and Seminary. The Galesburg Historical Society Third floor of the Galesburg Antiques Mall, 349 E. Third St. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday The Galesburg Historical Society has a mission to preserve and promote Galesburg history. Currently, the organization has displays at the Galesburg Antiques Mall Co. The museum takes visitors
back in time with snapshots of Galesburg through pictures, narratives, memorabilia and artifacts pertaining to Galesburg's past. The journey is free and open seven days a week to visitors. The displays rotate and the artifacts are from various venues, some on loan, and some owned by the society. Carl Sandburg State Historic Site 313 E. Third St., Galesburg 309-342-2361 www.sandburg.org Call 800-916-3330 for hours of operation Author-poet Carl Sandburg was born here in a threeroom cottage on Jan. 6, 1878. From these humble beginnings, Sandburg went on to achieve international acclaim for his poetry, children's stories and a six-volume biography of Abraham Lincoln. A Visitors Center and gift shop is located next to the birthplace. Be sure to walk through the wooded park and perennial garden where the ashes of
Carl Sandburg and his wife lie beneath Remembrance Rock. Quotation Walk leads you through the garden with famous quotes from Carl Sandburg's writings engraved in the stepping stones. Central Congregational Church Central Square, Galesburg 309-343-5145 www.centralcong.org Open: Year-round, except major holidays. Call for hours of operation This imposing Richardsonian Romanesque church building, constructed in 1898 of dark red sandstone transported from Michigan, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It has a number of magnificent rose windows, and is located on the site of the Old First Church — founded by the original settlers who came here with George Washington Gale to start a religious community and college, Knox College. The church recently celebrated its 175th anniversary along with the city and Knox College. Discovery Depot Children's Museum 128 S. Chambers St., Galesburg 309-344-8876 www.discoverydepot.org Open: Year-round, except major holidays. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday (open Mondays in the summer); 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Discovery Depot provides a newly-renovated environment for fun and
educational experiences for children and families. Interactive exhibits, programs and collections provide opportunities for learning, exploration and experimentation. Discovery Depot is a place where play and learning go hand in hand and offers something for all ages. Galesburg Railroad Museum 211 S. Seminary St., Galesburg 309-342-9400 www.galesburgrailroadmuseum.org Open: April through September. Hours: April- September 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; and noon-4 p.m. Sunday Group tours of 10 or more by appointment Experience the Heart and Soul of railroading from 1854 to the present. This extensive collection is housed in the new (2004) museum located next to the Amtrak station. See a complete station agents area, a central traffic control console, sit in the engineers seat and be at the controls of a GP30 locomotive. Take a tour of the 1930 Baldwin built 4-6-4 Hudson 3006 locomotive, a fully restored Railway Post Office and Railway Express car as well as a Pullman parlor car, and, of course, a complete 1930 caboose. Several inspection and maintenance of way cars and tools are ready for viewing. Knox College's Old Main 2 E. South St., Galesburg 309-341-7337
See GBURG — page 30
GateHouse Media Illinois ■ Summer Travel Guide ■ May 2015
Bishop Hill offers variety of fun throughout summer By Doug Boock
Sunday, June 7
Galva News
Honor Flight Benefit
BISHOP HILL — Per capita, there’s perhaps no village or city in western Illinois which offers more events annually than Bishop Hill. Boasting fewer than 150 residents, this historic village – settled by Swedish immigrants who established a colony here in 1846 – thrives today with a variety of events yearly that bring visitors from throughout Illinois and other states, as well as many from Sweden. The summer of 2015 is no different. A bevy of activities dot the Bishop Hill entertainment calendar. Here’s a quick look at them:
This fund-raiser helps the Honor Flight of the Quad Cities, which sends military veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit historic places. Held 3 to 6 p.m., enjoy patriotism amid music, an auction, a dinner, and much more, all in the Bishop Hill Village Park. If questions, call 309-932-3355.
Saturday, June 20 Midsommar Music Festival A lively Swedish tradition, people celebrate the summer solstice with music, workshops and a center stage concert. A Maypole is decorated and delivered by a procession to the Colony See EVENTS — page 46
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Galva craft show One-day event more than 35 years of tradition By Doug Boock Galva News
GALVA — Henry County’s largest one-day craft show will take place in Galva on Saturday, Oct. 17. Beta Sigma Phi will host its 37th annual show when over 100 craft show spaces will display a wide variety of quality-crafted items from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Galva High School. Crafts will be sold in the school’s halls and gym, as well as outside the school. Admission is a $1 donation for persons 13 and
over. No strollers will be allowed in the gym. Food will be served in the school cafeteria, featuring homemade BBQ sandwiches, fancy desserts and pies. Proceeds from the show will be used for community service projects. Past donations have included: Galva Fire Department, Galva Food Pantry, Bishop Hill Heritage Association, Galva Historical Society, Freedom House, Galva Senior Citizens Center; Love Trees, two awards to grad-
DOUG BOOCK/GALVA NEWS
The annual event - which features 100 or more craft spaces yearly - returns for its 37th year on Saturday, Oct. 17.
uating high school seniors, and various other community projects.
For more information, visit galvacraftshow.info or call 309-525-1671.
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GateHouse Media Illinois ■ Summer Travel Guide ■ May 2015
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Geneseo Train, Planes & Automobiles
TOP: World War II Stearman planes are on display at the Gen-Air Airport. ABOVE: Classic cars line the streets of downtown Geneseo during the annual celebration.
By Lisa Depies Geneseo Republic
GENESEO — Transportation is central at Geneseo’s annual Trains, Planes & Automobiles celebration. The three-day event includes modes of transportation ranging from classic cars and golf carts to trains and aircraft. The festival starts Sept. 10 with the annual Stear-
man fly-in at Gen-Air Airport east of Geneseo. Visitors can watch vintage World War II Stearman planes fly and perform aerobatic feats. Sept. 11 is “Cruise the Canal” day. Participants are able to enjoy the beauty of nature via golf cart during guided tours of the Hennepin Canal parkway. On Sept. 12, downtown Geneseo is devoted to all
things transportation. The Maple City Cruisers car club hosts a car show that routinely attracts hundreds of vehicles. Locomotives from the Iowa Interstate Railroad and patriot Renewable Fuels ethanol plant traditionally are on display and visitors are able to step inside the trains. Throughout the day, period aircraft fly overhead. Members of Geneseo
Model Railroaders Club exhibit a variety of model railroad displays during the festivities. Food vendors and other special displays add to the fun of the event, and special transportationthemed movies play on the screen at Central Theater. For more information, visit www.geneseo.org or phone 309-944-2686.
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ZORRO Continued from page 12
service clubs, businesses, etc. The main parade, which will follow a different route than other Chillicothe parades, is planned for 11 a.m. June 13 during ClaudElen Days and will serve as the parade for the event. Around noon after the first parade is over, a smaller kiddie parade for those ages 5 and under will commence. Once the parades are complete that day, activities for ZorroFest will be Cutright (River) Park until 5 p.m. With tents aplenty, Hirtz said he plans for residents to mill around, take photos with their favorite superheroes, grab a bite to eat and more.
The idea for ZorroFest and the superhero parade began after Hirtz listened to the three mayoral candidates discussing Chillicothe. Doug Crew, who won the election, made a comment about the city not having a festival that was a destination. Hirtz then heard a presentation from Gary Fyke, who was researching McCulley’s history as the Chillicothe Historical Society put together a new exhibit on McCulley and his Zorro. “I walked up to the front of the room and said flippantly, ‘We ought to have ZorroFest,’” Hirtz recalled. That comment has kept Hirtz busy this summer as he traveled to other parades around the area, passing out information about ZorroFest and the parade. As the weather turns
colder, Hirtz will make presentations about the event to whomever wants to hear more about it and has a promotional video to show. “We have the coolest parade with a dashing superhero, not a tomato or pumpkin,” Hirtz said. In his discussions with others, people repeatedly say the idea is “cool.” A standing committee of the Chillicothe Historical Society met for the first time at the end of September to plan for the event. They will meet once a month. There is no cost to be in the parade, but Hirtz does want to know about how many people to expect. Anyone wanting to get on the email list or volunteer to help should email Hirtz at drhjaws@ frontier.com or call 309-253-1010.
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Geneseo
Music fest means family fun By Lisa Depies Geneseo Republic
GENESEO — The 47th annual Geneseo Music Festival will be a weekend of music, crafts and family fun. Music Festival events will start at 6 p.m. June 19 with the Kiwanis Club’s Doo Dah Parade. The parade has no theme or order of march for its participants and is open to all. “The Marching Spatulas,” a precision marching unit of Kiwanis members is a
Plans underway to bring tractor show to Atkinson ATKINSON TWP. — The Atkinson Township Historical Society will host a Vintage Farm Equipment Show at Bridge Park in Atkinson on Saturday, Sept. 19. The show will benefit and bring further awareness of the six agricultural museums in Henry County, said Bill Freddy, a member of the planning committee and curator of the Atkinson Historical Museum. All proceeds will go to the museums. The show will be open from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. at Bridge Park, 19030 East 2120 Street (Rock Island Avenue), in Atkinson. “The Vintage Farm Equipment Show will provide a great opportunity
yearly feature in the parade. The Music Festival Queen pageant, featuring Geneseo High School seniors contestants, starts at 7 p.m. in the city park. Activities on June 20 start at 8 a.m. with the Maple City 4 Run. The race starts and ends at Geneseo High School. Craft vendors will display their goods at the Geneseo City Park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.. An antique tractor show will be featured in the north section of the city park.
The weekend event will conclude on June 21 with Gen-Air’s annual fly-in/drive-in Father’s Day pancake breakfast from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Gen-Air Airport, east of Geneseo. Craft vendors will be in the city park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Music Festival/Father’s Day parade will kick off at 1 p.m. June 21 and will travel south on State Street from Geneseo High School to the Geneseo City Park. For more information, visit www.geneseo.org.
for the public to visit the area, check out the museums, and perhaps spend the weekend in Henry County,” Freddy said. Atkinson Township Historical Society members are encouraging young vintage farm equipment collectors to display their items along with adult exhibitors. “We are aware that the young people, both boys and girls, are the future of this growing hobby,” said Freddy. “... The preservation of our agricultural history is vital to our future generations.” All young exhibitors will
be presented special information cards which will be suitable for use at other shows as well. All exhibitors will be present to explain the significance and operation of their displays. There will be horsedrawn equipment, hitand-miss engines, worksaving devices of the past, vintage farm trucks, and blacksmithing exhibits as well as vintage farm equipment and tractors. For more information, contact Freddy at 309936-7117, or Dave Carton at 309-441-5915. —GateHouse Media Illinois
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Galva
CRUISE
Fireworks top off Galva July 4 celebration
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Freedom Fest draws thousands from area By Doug Boock Galva News
If you’ve not been to a
Fourth of July celebration in Galva, you’ve missed some special small-town fun.
The largest annual event in Galva, the July 4 celebration – known as Freedom Fest – is the city’s yearly celebration of America’s independence. Held every year on July 4, Freedom Fest is best known for the fireworks extravaganza in Galva Park District which ends the day. That event draws thousands of people from as far away as Peoria and the Quad-Cities. Melrose Pyrotechnics – which puts on displays at professional sports events and other large venues – provides a show which even metropolitan cities
envy. But the events leading up to the fireworks also make for a fun-filled day. Included are a 5K run/walk in early morning, games for kids, an afternoon talent show, softball tournament, plenty of food and a midday parade (the second most popular event of the day!). The day’s lineup offers a relaxing, enjoyable day for young and old alike. It’s what Galva’s perhaps best known for by residents throughout western Illinois. For more information, call Galva City Hall at 309932-2555.
Company, which is a professional audio service that will play music and give announcements. This year's Cruise-In is scheduled for Friday, June 19. Canton Chamber Director Amanda Atchley said the Cruise-In boosts local business as visitors
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SMART Bus will be in the kids zone during the day, and each child that visits the bus will receive a free book.
from out of the area frequently shop in the stores, eat in the restaurants and sometimes stay overnight in one of the hotels. "It's a great event to bring families out," said Williams. "It's a great place to see people you haven't seen in years." For more information on the Cruise-In, contact the Canton Area Chamber of Commerce at 309647-2677.
Illinois Patriot Guard Riders also will be at the event, and event organizers are hoping to secure their traveling memory wall that pays tribute to the fallen heroes of the Iraq and Afghanistan war.
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The actual tournament takes place from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 11 with weighin of fish at 2 p.m. at Bass Pro Shops, 1000 Bass Pro Shops Drive, East Peoria. “They can take the top 20 fish of their catch and
then we weigh those, and whoever weighs the most wins the $2,500,” Swan said. There also will be other activities occurring in the parking lot at Bass Pro Shops during the tournament, including activities for children, live music and food for purchase. Some of the food offered includes Asian carp.
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Last year, Swan said there were hundreds of people who attended the event. Cost to register a team for the tournament is $120 for up to four people. For complete rules, regulations and information, visit Peoria Flying Fish on Facebook or email peoriaflyingfish@gmail.com.
Visit
Knoxville
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PARK Continued from page 12
FILE PHOTO BY RON JOHNSON/GATEHOUSE MEDIA ILLINOIS
Festival goers kick up dust as they file into Three Sisters Park for the Summer Camp music festival in May 2014 in Chillicothe.
frastructure has undergone significant changes, Cassidy said, with the addition of water and sewer, plus a total of 17 buildings on the park’s grounds. Such changes have proven beneficial in attracting festival promoters. “It’s just so unique. A lot of festivals are in large farm fields, wide open, where we’ve got infrastructure with sewage buildings, some timber and wide open areas and the amphitheater,” said Cassidy, who is a supervisor for the SLG Cohen Foundation, which has owned and operated the park since its inception. “It’s just a very unique spot.” Since its inception in
1991, Three Sisters Park has stood as a sort of monument to farming practices of the 1910s, the ultimate goal being a living history attraction to show how the industry has changed in nearly 100 years. But in its nearly 24 years, the park has served as an entertainment destination, one of the largest events being Summer Camp, which Cassidy said brings record numbers for local businesses year after year. Though Three Sisters Park has become a major entertainment venue since its inception in 1991, park officials are still focusing on its agricultural roots. “The park and the SLG Cohen Foundation still put [their] resources toward the development of the agricultural history and the living history farm,” Cassidy said. “We just act as
more of a rental spot. Most of the music venues — stuff that’s not related to agriculture — is done by outside promoters, and we just rent it out on that side of the coin. “We’re not tax supported, so we need to do that to generate funds to stay operational and realize our goals.” Last summer, the park dedicated the Burt Hasselberg Ag Museum, featuring antique farming equipment such as tractors, buggies and other farm implements as a shrine to the history of local agricultural practices. The museum officially opened to the public on April 29. For Cassidy, it was 20 years of work in the making. “It’s been a long time coming. We’ve been working on it slowly for over 20 years, so to actually have so much of it up and able to show to the public is just a thrill,” Cassidy said at the museum’s opening. In addition to the agricultural museum, visitors can tour the park’s vintage farmstead, which includes a church, farmhouse and barn, all of which are carefully preserved on the interior as well as the exterior to appear just as they did in 1918. Children can also try their hand at the barn’s grain mills to crack corn — just as children did in 1918 — or manually plowing the nearby sod behind two of the park’s horses. While concerts and other events continue to draw big names, the ultimate goal remains the same. “Our goal is the living history parks and museum out here,” Cassidy said. “The concerts and special events like that are a means of raising the funds and accomplishing that goal.”
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Geneseo
Antique engine, tractor group’s expo brings national attention By Lisa Depies Geneseo Republic
GENESEO — The Antique Engine and Tractor Association’s 2015 Working Farm Show will be in the national spotlight. In conjunction with their 54th annual show, the Antique Engine and Tractor Association will play host to the 2015 National Rumely Expo. “This will be, I believe, the first national event our group has hosted,” said Antique Engine and Tractor Association president Curt Jacobs. “It’s an honor to host a national event, and this will be a very special show for our group.” The 2015 show will be Sept. 18-20 at the association’s 50-acre show grounds, located at 13451 Illinois Highway 92 in rural Geneseo. The M. Rumely Co. started producing its Oil Pull tractors in 1910 in LaPorte, Ind. Though the company produced many types of agricultural machinery, it was best known for its threshing machines and large tractors. “There are quite a few Rumely tractors around, but people don’t always bring them out (to shows),” Jacobs said. “We’re hoping to see a lot of tractors this year that we maybe didn’t even know were in our backyard. This will be a very interesting show.” While all brands of tractors and antique farm equipment are welcome at the show, each year a specific brand is featured. As host of the National Rumely Expo, the 2015 featured tractor will be,
COURTESY PHOTO
During the annual working farm show, the 50-acre Antique Engine and Tractor Association grounds play host to tractor displays, field demonstrations, craft vendors and more.
of course, Rumely. “We’re hoping to set some time aside during
the show to have just the Rumely tractors out working in the fields and let
those guys be the center of attention,” Jacobs said. As a working farm show,
the annual event features numerous field demonstrations. For those unfamiliar with farming’s history, association members work to make the event as educational as possible. Members are on hand to answer questions about the demonstrations, which include harvesting, corn shelling, threshing and more. “We try to plan events that are fully family friendly and appeal to all ages,” Jacobs said. “We want to be family friendly but also educational.” Each year, the show draws large crowds with visitors come from
throughout the United States. The show also draws international visitors. “We’ve had people come from Germany, France, South Africa and Australia in the past few years to attend the show,” Jacobs said. The Antique Engine and Tractor Association started in Geneseo on July 4, 1959, as the Early Day Gas Engine & Tractor Association Branch No. 3. The club continued under that name until 1971, when it became the Antique Engine and Tractor Association. It’s first official show
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GBURG Continued from page 18
www.knox.edu Open: September-May, except major holidays Hours: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, or by appointment Old Main's construction in 1857 reflected the prosperity that the new railroad began bringing to Galesburg three years earlier. It is the sole remaining original site of the great Lincoln-Douglas debates in 1858. The debate was staged against the east wall of Old Main, and two large bronze plaques with the likenesses of Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas grace that wall. Registered as a National Landmark, the building itself is a significant example of American Gothic Revival architecture. Knox County Courthouse
200 S. Cherry St., Galesburg 309-343-3121 Open: Year-round, except major holidays. Hours: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. The cornerstone of this sandstone building was laid in 1884 and construction was completed in 1886 at a cost of $150,000. The ornate details are typical of the Romanesque period. On the east lawn, you’ll find the Mother Bickerdyke Memorial. This sculpture is dedicated to a Galesburg woman who served the wounded Union soldiers during the Civil War. To the west of the Courthouse is Standish Park Arboretum with more than 170 trees and shrubs. Galesburg Civic Art Center 114 E. Main St., Galesburg 309-342-7415 www.galesburgarts.org Open: Year-round, except major holidays. Hours: 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tues-
day-Friday and 10:30 a.m.3 p.m. Saturday Monthly exhibits include both local and national artists. Every spring, the national juried GALEX show is exhibited — attracting artist entries from around the country. Annual events include Art-in-thePark in September, a festive holiday art market in November/December and two major fundraisers: the Holiday House Walk showcasing Galesburg homes and the Mardi Gras costume ball. Orpheum Theatre 57 S. Kellogg St., Galesburg 309-342-2299 www.theorpheum.org Open: Year-round except major holidays Tours by appointment or during regular business hours as staffing permits Box Office Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday and two hours prior to showtimes The Orpheum Theatre
opened in 1916. The facade is French Second Empire style and the interior features classic Corinthian columns. An Italian Renaissance plaster frieze graces the mezzanine hall and French baroque medallions ring the main hall. Originally built as a vaudeville house, the Orpheum hosted many early stars of stage and screen, including Jack Benny, George Burns and Houdini. In addition, to hosting many local performing arts groups including the award-winning Knox-Galesburg Symphony, the Orpheum Theatre features top touring theatrical, musical and comedic talent from around the country. Veterans Memorial Lincoln Park The Veterans Memorial was put in place to honor all veterans past and present. In a beautiful location which is easily accessible to all veterans, their fami-
lies and people interested in visiting and honoring the brave and courageous veterans. Lincoln Statue Amtrak Station, 225 S. Seminary St., Galesburg A life-size granite statue of Abraham Lincoln, modeled after the one in the Capitol rotunda in Washington, D.C., greets visitors in front of the Amtrak depot. Knox County Historical Museum Downtown Knoxville Private tours can be arranged by calling 309289-6919 or the Knoxville City Hall at 309-289-2814 The new building for the Knox County Historical Museum was completed in 2009 and the grand opening was Sept. 27, 2009. It was designed and constructed by Knoxville native Gil Hebard and his wife Mary, who donated the building after it was finished to the City of
Knoxville with the stipulation that it be used for a museum. It contains over 2,000 artifacts donated by individuals, families and businesses of the area. Native American artifacts represent the county's first inhabitants. Uniforms, guns and other military items used by county residents represent their participation in national wars and conflicts. Churches, schools and businesses no longer in existence can be remembered through pictures, books and artifacts. Many antique items reflect everyday life in the 1800s. Some of them are on display in the Old Knox County Jail and the Sanburn Log Cabin. The museum's collection of antique agriculture artifacts and implements is located on the second floor of the Old Knox County Courthouse. There is no admission fee but donations are accepted to help maintain the building and artifacts
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Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive set for October By Larry Eskridge The Daily Ledger
FULTON CO. — Tens of thousands of visitors will flock to Fulton County during the first two weekends of October for the 48th annual Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive. The Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive will take place Oct. 3, 4, 10 and 11. It was started in 1968 as a way to share the natural beauty of the area with visitors and to celebrate the heritage of Spoon River, made famous by Edgar Lee Masters' poetry. The Drive itself covers more than 100 miles in Fulton County and more, including Elmwood, London Mills, Farmington,
Fairview, Ellisville, Smithfield, Cuba, Canton, Avon, Lewistown, Bernadotte, Duncan Mills, Waterford Township, Ipava, Vermont and Astoria. A number of vendors, offering everything from crafts to food to flea market items to artwork, differ from site to site. Vendors of all types are welcome, particularly crafters and artists selling unique, handcrafted items. Fall Festival Chair Roberta Smith said the Drive not only has vendors from the area and Illinois and local states such as Indiana, Iowa, Missouri and Wisconsin, but also from as far away as Florida, Texas and
Oklahoma. One of the things the Spoon River Drive Associates have stressed is that vendors who do register with the Drive help fund the programs and services which keep the event going, from advertising in magazines and radio stations which gets the word out to potential visitors to the portable toilets the Association provides at various Drive sites. These include the food, from apple butter made in front of the customers at London Mills, chicken and noodles at the Red Brick School in Smithfield, homemade pies and turkey legs at Duncan Mills, baked potatoes at Farmington and frog legs
DAILY LEDGER FILE PHOTO
A man participating in a historic demonstration crafts a tool out of wood at Dickson Mounds Museum at last year's Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive.
and alligator on a stick at Bernadotte. History buffs will find a display on coal mining history at Cuba, historic opera houses in Ellisville and Fairview, the Easley Pioneer Museum in Ipava, rendezvous campsites at
Dickson Mounds and London Mills and blacksmithing and horsedrawn farm equipment demonstrations at Marigold Meadows in Lewistown.But for many, the Drive means the changing colors of fall.
For more information about the Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive, write to Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive, P.O. Box 525, Canton, IL 61520, call 309-647-8980 or email spoonriverdrive@gmail .com
ANTIQUE
Geneseo Athletic Field in conjunction with the city’s 125th anniversary. For many years, the association held its working farm show on rented
ground in the neighboring village of Atkinson. However, in 2010, the show returned to Geneseo. The Antique Engine and Tractor Association now owns its own showground. Other demonstrations at the show included blacksmith work, loom weaving and wood turning as well as gas engines, and custom built scale models of tractors and engines. Children’s games and activities also will be featured. Rare steam engines also are on display at the working farm show. For more information, visit www.ae-ta.com.
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was held in 1961 at the
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Cruise Night festivities an annual spectacle for Monmouth By Matthew Dutton Review Atlas
MONMOUTH — Easily Monmouth's biggest attraction of the year, Maple City Cruise Night has grown to encompass 20,000 spectators marveling at almost 1,500 unique, rare and otherwise intriguing vehicles. Cruise Night is put on annually by the Maple City Street Machines organization. Scheduled for July 31 this year, Cruise Night is not only free for anyone interested in attending, but there are also door prizes, 50/50 drawings, live music and food vendors present as well. "Cruise Night is just good all the way around. It is good for the city, and it
gives people something to do," said Kenny Tatman, one of the board members of the Maple City Street Machines. "I can't believe the crowds each year. It just keeps on growing. It has gotten to the point that there are too many vehicles and people to possibly count." The historical significance of Cruise Night expands well beyond the several decades it has been consistently going. Enthusiasts and aficionados bring some of the rarest vehicles available on the open market to Monmouth for the night. Together, millions of dollars in vehicles pave the streets of Monmouth from the blockade at the intersection of Fourth Av-
enue and South Main Street to the four-way intersection at North Main Street and Harlem Avenue. "We have food vendors come out, so it is good for local restaurants. Our live band, Eternity Road, has been performing for Cruise Night ever since the second year of the event," Tatman said. "Any make or kind of car you can think of will be there. It is fun to see all the different vehicles. Every year, there are new and exciting cars that have never been there before. It is just an all-around good family event." For one night a year, Monmouth's Main Street and some of Broadway are crammed almost shoulder to shoulder with visitors
REVIEW ATLAS FILE PHOTO
from across Illinois and beyond, all trying to take in the sight of each of the unique vehicles present. The owners of those vehicles are almost always more than happy to discuss their ride. Some are ultra-
rare, such as a 1970 Mustang Twister Special present last year, of which only 20 are left in existence. Others are old and historically significant, such as the 435 Kasier Darrins, of which only 435 were
produced in 1954. Owners are always very prideful of their machines and generally enjoy taking the time to discuss with passersby the intricacies of their several hundred thousand dollar investments.
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pushes "people's limits to see what they can accomplish together." Like Horn Field, the Lakeview Nature Center also provides a year-round educational facility. During the school season, programs are offered most weekends, with a family workshop offered once a month — where the ceramics department joins for a collaborated "clay and educational nature talk," Young said. The Nature Center also offers holiday hunts and summer camp sessions as well. "We're still in the process of discovering what Macomb wants as far as programing with the Nature Center," Young said. "So the more that I learn the more programs are offered." Though, education is not all the Nature Center has to offer. Even if the gate is shut, the trails are always available to the public, just park and walk through the gate. Wildlife is always lurking, according to Young, if the animal cannot be seen, it's tracks can — a course that the center also teaches. "In the fall, once the prairie grows up tall, the grasses are over your head so it makes you feel like your in the midst of nature, which is a really cool feeling," Young said about walking in nature. But the focus of the center is too educate a populace on the sorts of nature that can be found in the confined region. Young said that it's really "life-giving" to witness a child's eagerness and excitement to learn. "It's a great place for kids
especially like preschool to second-grade aged kids to come out and get hands on experience, and experience nature in a more playful way where they aren't bound by fences or given constructs as to how to play," Young said. Adding that parents may also be intrigued that their child can play as loud, without the overwhelming feeling of small spaces. "This space is a beautiful place to come out and enjoy time outside with your family," Young said of the 1998 wooden-pegged building. Argyle Lake is also a place for education and enjoyment, though done a little differently. It offers variety of trails — hiking, biking, equestrian, et cetera — there is seasonal hunting and fishing, as well as community events: Conservation Day conversations, Lake Exploration Day, Labor Day flea markets, even homemade Maple Syrup festivals. "We just have something pretty much all the time going on out here," said Robin Hinchee, site superintendent. In addition to the myriad of listed options, it also has four levels of camping — where a camper can choose sites A through D, depending on how much "roughing it" they can handle. "I tell people we're not a park that someone is going to run into accidentally, you have to make it a destination because we're so far from anywhere, and we're not right off the beaten path, you have to know where you're going to get here," Hinchee said. The secluded 1,700-acre park is also home to the largest contiguous Oak Hickory Forest in Illinois, which are native to the western portion of the state. An organization called the Friends of Argyle co-
sponsors a number of the events put on at the lake, including Free Fishing Days. All of the money raised through socials — which is raised through merchandise and food — is put back into the state park, so the community can use its resources. It offers activity items and boat rentals: canoe, kayak, John boats, paddle boats, as well as a concession stand which, during the summer, serves three meals a day. "Right now, especially with the economy the way it is, it gives families a place to go locally without traveling to far," Hinchee said. Similar to Lake Argyle, Spring Lake has a vast amount of land — 1,200 acres — coated in trails and hunting grounds. However, the campground and trails only make up 400 of that total. "There's a lot that people just don't know about that we're looking to expand into," said Ryan Hansen, site superintendent and former Macomb City Council alderman. Hansen said that there are "hidden treasures" that he hopes to unveil. He discussed an idea of a sort of "drive"-up camping, where one would need a boat to reach a secluded site near the opposite end of the entrance side. Though he said that he spends too much time there to decide, he settled on the trails as one of his favorite Spring Lake activities. "When people come here from the Quad Cities they always say 'Why don't we have something like this back home,' They're just beautiful single track trails," he said. All of the outdoor recreation sites, with the exclusion of Horn Field, are open and free to the public year round.
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Monmouth
Pottery tradition celebrated in June By Matthew Dutton
MONMOUTH — Monmouth will again celebrate its historic tradition of crafting quality, iconic stoneware through Pottery on the Square, held each June for the past decade. Set on Monmouth's Public Square, the event, held annually by the Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce, draws in pottery and stoneware enthusiasts from across the Midwest. Over the years, people have gathered at this event from as far away as Maquoketa, Iowa, Deer Park, Wisconsin, and Kansas City, Missouri. "The Pottery on the
Square event gives pottery enthusiasts an opportunity to buy, sell and trade property at the swap meet," said Angela McElwee, executive director of the Monmouth Chamber of Commerce. "Another fun feature of the event is the pottery appraisal clinic, where the public is welcome to bring a piece of vintage pottery to be appraised by knowledgeable pottery collectors." This year's event will be from 8 a.m. to noon June 28. Attractions include a pottery and stoneware swap meet, pottery appraisal clinic, pottery demonstration and displays or rare pottery pieces.
The swap meet averages 35 people in addition to more appraisal clinic participants. There is no charge for the event. The first event of the day is the pottery appraisal clinic, during which knowledgeable Illinois collectors are on hand to examine pieces brought in by the public. With rare items often appearing unexpectedly, the appraisal clinic does not disappoint. Those wishing to sell a piece are never too far away from a buyer at Pottery on the Square. The event draws a variety of collectors to the area, in search of unique, rare or otherwise intriguing pieces.
"It is always interesting to see the variety of pottery that is brought in to be appraised, to learn the origin of the piece, and to hear an estimate of value," McElwee said. Monmouth Pottery Company was formed in 1893. The company manufactured all kinds of stoneware and survived a few plant fires. The company used its name on products in different fonts and different designs along with various logos. Monmouth Pottery Company was sold in 1905 and by 1906 was merged with six other pottery companies to form Western Stoneware.
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GateHouse Media Illinois â– Summer Travel Guide â– May 2015
Visit historic sites, shopping, restaurants, wines, recreation and fine accommodations, combine to illuminate the rich and deep history that attracts visitors each year.
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Morton BBQ Throwdown this July By Drew Veskauf Times Newspapers
MORTON — Barbecue in all shapes and forms makes its way to Morton for the annual Morton BBQ Throwdown each summer. From July 24-25, downtown Morton is lined with barbecue cooking competitors and vendors. The competition was founded in 2011 and helps raise funds for the Illinois CancerCare Foundation. Since its inception, the BBQ Throwdown has raised $47,000 for the foundation. The event is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society and is conducted in a professional manner. In 2014, 48 professional teams made the trip to the competition. The professional teams cook through the night until the first turn in at 11 a.m. July 25.
ADAM LARCK/TIMES NEWSPAPERS
Dudley Roach, left, and Andrew Hess of team Fiddlin’ Fatback look at their ribs before throwing them on the grill in the 2014 competition. The pair took first in the Morton BBQ Throwdown competition for their ribs.
Chicken, ribs, pork shoulder, beef brisket and a side dish are all on the
docket for the competition. Competitors from across the country come to compete with KCBS trained judges coming from the local area. For the not-so professional teams, there is the Backyard BBQ Contest held July 25 on the Jefferson Elementary School grounds. The Backyard Contest offers those not in a team to compete with others to see how well their barbecue stacks up to the rest. A craft and vendor show will also be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 25. For those not competing or judging, there will be other barbecue food vendors from the greater Peoria area along with live entertainment and a beer tent at the American Legion Hall, 24 E. Adams St. For more information on the competition, visit www.MortonBBQThrowdown.net.
Morton Pumpkin Festival in Sept. By Drew Veskauf Times Newspapers
MORTON — For one week in Morton the town turns orange for its annual Pumpkin Festival. The festival is from Sept. 12-20 and the carnival grounds are open Sept. 16-19. Morton was labeled the Pumpkin Capitol of the World in 1978 by the Illinois Governor due to Libby’s Pumpkin plant producing 85 percent of the world’s canned pumpkin. The festival was founded in 1967 by the Morton Chamber of Commerce.
The theme for this year’s pumpkin festival is Pumpkins of the Caribbean. The downtown area is transformed into a massive festival ground that includes carnival rides and games, food and dessert tents, a business expo tent and a beer garden. It is the Morton Chamber of Commerce’s main fundraiser, and last year it was estimated the festival attracted 70,000 people. The event was organized by over 2,000 volunteers. See PUMPKIN — page 43
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Mt. Sterling more than a Dot on state map By Lainie Steelman McDonough Co. Voice
MT. STERLING — With a new fine dining eatery located downtown, a nearby winery and the nation's largest food re-distributor making its home here, Mt. Sterling is more than just a Dot on the state map. With a heavy investment boost from Dot Foods, the tiny Brown County community of just 1,900 is undergoing a revitalization of sorts. Hagel 1891, an upper-scale restaurant, opened on Main St. last fall as a subsidiary of Dot Foods. The interior reflects the building's history a hardware and furniture store built by brothers Joseph and William Hagel in 1891. Reclaimed wood is everywhere in the restaurant, along with photographic traces of the community's history. Chef John Kellogg's menu, billed as "classic American with a modern and flavorful twist," is out of the ordinary but approachable. For lunch, try a shrimp melt basket served with house pickles and onion strings. Or the Hagel salad, crisp greens topped with tomatoes, aged sharp cheddar cheese, English cucumbers, and your choice of grilled shrimp or chicken, grilled or fried. Around dinner time, the food at Hagel becomes a bit fancier, but still approachable nonetheless: Pan-fried quail served with crawfish pan gravy, roasted potatoes and grilled asparagus.
On a recent Saturday lunch visit, a friend and I devoured a generous plate of loaded house fries topped with bacon and cheese, a black bean soup, and a tasty garlic naan flatbread topped with tomato jam, gruyere cheese and grilled chicken. For dessert, a warm cherry cobbler topped with vanilla ice cream. The tab for this feast for two, including two soft drinks and one coffee: A few cents over $30. Hagel was doing a brisk afternoon business on my visit, which is good to see in a high-end restaurant located in a small town. "Business is wonderful," said restaurant assistant manager Meagan Scranton. "We have people coming from Quincy, Jacksonville, Springfield. Sometimes people from Iowa. You just can't find anything like this around anywhere else." Next door to Hagel 1891, Dorothy's Market — named after Dot Foods co-founder Dorothy Tracy — stocks ginormous bags of frozen foods, dry groceries with slightly damaged packing and other discounted items. The wholesale outlet was originally located on the Dot Foods headquarter's on Mt. Sterling's outskirts, but last fall moved downtown. The family-owned Dot Foods was founded in 1960 by Dorothy Tracy and her husband Robert out of the back of their station wagon. The Tracys have been generous in giving back to the community, and the Dot Foods influence can be seen almost everywhere in Mt. Sterling, from downtown
to the YMCA, which in 2004 was donated to the community by Dot Foods, the Tracy Family Foundation and Robert and Dorothy Tracy. The city, along with the Tracy Family Foundation, worked together with Kiku Obata & Company to create a multi-phase, long-range strategic plan and redevelopment blueprint, according to the city's website. The plan includes not only private Dot Foods projects like Hagel 1891, but public works including a facade improvement program and civic efforts such as seasonal festivals. At Spirited Treasures a few doors down from the Hagel-Dorothy's Market block, co-owner Teresa Logsdon said the Dot Foods influence can be seen on the restored facade of the building across the street from the shop she owns with Stacee Rohn. Dot Foods, she said, owns several of the buildings on Main Street. "We both have lived here forever, so we just want to see it busier," said Teresa, mentioning that John Wood Community College also has a hub in Mt. Sterling. "With the Dot Foods store being up here now, it brings a lot more traffic uptown." Spirited Treasures, which Logsdon and Rohn opened the same month as Hagel 1891 opened, offers an eclectic mix of antiques and items hand-crafted locally. "We were making the spoon jewelry out of my dad's workshop, and people wanted to try it on and See DOT — page 49
FILE PHOTO
Vendors sell pumpkin-style goods at the 2014 Morton Pumpkin Festival.
PUMPKIN Continued from page 40
The Pumpkin Festival offers over 30 special events during its full week. Sept. 19 offers a full day
in itself. The Pumpkin Classic 10K/2-mile run/walk begins at 7:30 a.m. followed by the Pumpkin Festival Parade. The afternoon of Saturday also includes the Miss Morton Talent show, a pie eating contest and Libby’s Pumpkin Recipe
Challenge. The Kiddie Parade makes sure the kids aren’t left out with their own parade starting at 6 p.m. Sept. 17. For more information on the Morton Pumpkin Festival, visit www.MortonPumpkinFestival.org.
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Pekin
Annex highlights history, archaeology By Sharon Woods Harris Daily Times
PEKIN — Where can you find mammoth teeth and pieces of the space shuttle? Why, in downtown Pekin, at the Tazewell County Museum Special Collections Annex, of course. The annex shines a spotlight on historical and archaeological relics ranging from native American artifacts to the items donated by NASA that are related to the space missions of Pekin’s own retired astronaut Scott Altman, who is famous for having served as space shuttle pilot. Tazewell County Museum President and Executive Director Christal Dagit See ANNEX — page 53
EVENTS
DAILY TIMES FILE PHOTO
Christal Dagit, President and Director of the Tazewell County Museum & Educational Center, examines a mammoth tooth on display at the museum.
said the new annex, located in the Arcade Building in downtown Pekin, houses items from Abraham Lincoln, the early railroads
that snaked through Tazewell County, Sen. Everett McKinley Dirksen, Civil War artifacts brought back to the area by return-
Sunday, July 26
and weaving techniques, and broom making. Handson activities include spinning and weaving. Soup supper on Saturday featuring homemade soups served in handmade bowls. For more info, call 309927-3008.
Antique Car Show
Continued from page 19
School, where singing and dancing continue. A barn dance is at night at the school. Music is performed during the day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The pole decorating and procession are at 4 p.m. If questions, call 309927-3311.
Saturday, July 11 25th annual Country Antique Market Quality antiques including primitives, country, folk art, pottery, and much more are available on the lawn of the Colony School, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. There’s a $6 admission charge. If questions, call 309-927-3042 or 309-927-3037
Antique and classic cars shine in the village. Registration is from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Judging is noon to 1:30 p.m., with awards presented at 3 p.m. For an application, call 309-525-5665.
Saturday, Aug. 15 Pie and Ice Cream Social Area bakers offer up their best dishes! Serving is 1 to 4 p.m. in the village park. For more information, call 309-927-3899.
Saturday, Aug. 15, and Sunday, Aug. 16 Clay and Fiber Fest Demonstrations of pottery making and firing, spinning
Saturday, Aug. 29, and Sunday, Aug. 30 Bishop Hill Chautauqua Reenactors bring famous historical figures to life through inspiring stories in the village park. Family event free of charge. Hours are 1 to 4 p.m. If questions, call 309-927-3899.
Remainder of 2015 Bishop Hill will host many more events in 2015 after the summer season, also. To learn more, visit bishophill.com.
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Orion
GAZETTE FILE PHOTO
Main Street Orion's celebration of baseball on Saturday, June 20, will include a family slow-pitch softball tournament at Love Park, Orion. It will give players a chance to test their skills, just like Orion High School's Anne Hansen stealing third in a varsity softball game in 2014.
Baseball celebration a family event By Mindy Carls Orion Gazette
ORION — Main Street Orion is hosting a daylong celebration of baseball on Saturday, June 20, in Central and Love Parks. The day’s events include a children’s Wiffle perforated plastic ball tournament in the morning and a family slow-pitch softball tournament in the afternoon, both at Love Park on the east side of Orion. The action moves to Central Park at 6:30 p.m.,
when Main Street Orion will begin selling ballpark food, including brats, hot dogs, peanuts and Cracker Jack snacks, beer and pop in the Lions picnic shelter. At 7:15 p.m., the Orion Scarlets youth cheer team will perform. Auctioneer Jon Bloomberg will begin a live sports memorabilia auction at 7:30 p.m. Main Street Orion already has a signed Derek Jeter poster for the auction,
See ORION — page 52
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Eat, play, shop in Mt. Sterling Eat Hagel 1891 113 E. Main St. 217-773-7038 http://hagel1891.com/
The Corndog Stand
DOT Continued from page 43
stuff," Logsdon said of why the duo set up shop downtown. "We needed the space." Venture out of downtown and turn onto Route 99, and it's hard to miss the The Corndog Stand, a food trailer that's open April, May, June, October and November. The menu
reads like a carnival midway on a sweltering midwestern night: corn dogs, pulled pork barbecue sandwich, soft pretzels, nachos, lemon and strawberry shake-ups. A regular corn dog will set you back just $1.75. The most expensive menu item is the $3 baked potato — your choice of russet or sweet, served with your choice of toppings. About nine miles southwest of Mt. Sterling, Ridge View Winery offers wine
produced from vineyards that can be viewed from the main building's spacious wraparound deck. Inside, visitors can sample wine, have a bite to eat and listen to live entertainment. Before leaving town, don't forget to drive by the Dot Foods home base on Illinois Route 99 to pause at the enormity of the operation. And perhaps to offer a silent moment of thanks.
Rt. 99
Uptown City Limits Bar & Grill 121 W. Main St. 217-773-3737
Sportsman's Club 11 N. Capitol Ave. 217-773-9096
Renee's Place 220 E. Main St. 217-773-9000
Pizza Plus
Mt. Sterling Lake
408 East Lincoln St. 217-773-2558
1-1/2 miles from Mt. Sterling on IL Rt. 99 north Camping and fishing
Tastee Treat 423 East Main St. 217-773-2543
Play
Shop Dorothy's Market 125 E. Main St. 217-773-3376 www.dorothys-market.com
Ridge View Winery 529 200 N. Avenue 217-289-3300 www.ridgeviewwinery.com
Mt. Sterling YMCA 896 IL Rt. 99 217-773-2230 www.mtsterlingymca.net/
Rolling Greens Golf Club IL Rt. 99 north 217-773-3085 golfrollinggreens.com
Spirited Treasures 111 W. Main St. 217-242-5855 or 618-6044709
Sleep Irish House Hotel IL Rt. 99 south 217-773-4100 Indoor pool, business center, daily continental breakfast. Double rooms from $79 per night on www.booking.com
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Red, white, boom
Celebration, entertainment to be a throwback to old southern rock By Thomas Bruch GateHouse Media Illinois
PEORIA — The 2015 Red, White and Boom celebration will be a throwback to old southern rock in addition to the $100,000 fireworks display. Molly Hatchet will be accompanied by opening act The Outlaws for the Friday night concert on July 3 at Festival Park on the Peoria Riverfront. Gates open at 6 p.m. with the concert starting at 7:30 p.m. on the eve of the Fourth of July. Molly Hatchet is best
known for its hit song “Flirtin’ with Disaster” off the album of the same name. The Outlaws, formed in 1967, have hits in “There Goes Another Love Song” and “Green Grass and High Tides.” The weekend-long party will begin Thursday, July 2, with a performance by The Bluprint Band, which will cover favorites on Top 40 radio. Tickets prices for both concerts have been reduced this year. Tickets to The Bluprint Band cost $5 and tickets to the double-bill of The Outlaws and Molly
Hatchet cost $15 in advance and $20 at the gate. “What better way to celebrate on July 3 than seeing two great Southern rock bands for only $15,” said Jack Manis of Jay Goldberg Events and Entertainment. “You can’t beat it.” “Red, White and Boom” will culminate with the fireworks celebration starting at 9:30 p.m. July 4, produced by Mellrose Pyrotechnics with $100,000 worth of fireworks. It’s the fifth straight year that sum of money will be used on fireworks and the 29th year overall for Red, White and Boom. The event is sponsored by UnityPoint HealthMethodist/Proctor.
FILE PHOTO
Walking Washington Square reminiscent of Regan, Lincoln visits By Marlo Guetersloh Times Newspapers
WASHINGTON — The city of Washington may have been named to honor the first U.S. President, but two men who later held the top office in the nation walked through the historic Washington Square a number of times. A walking tour of where Abraham Lincoln visited while in Washington is one way to get a feel for the city’s history and a way to get to know the unique atmosphere of the Washington Square, said Mary Kerr, an archivist
with the Washington Historical Society. The Square has long been the heart of the city. The area that is now the park was the site of the city’s first community well, said Washington Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Chevie Ruder, and it is still a bustling shopping district. “The Washington Square is where life began for this city,” Ruder said. “And the fountain on the square remains a great representation of that.” Being the heart of the Washington also made it the best spot for a Eureka
College student named Ronald Reagan to catch a ride home to Dixon on school breaks. “We know from stories he would tell, Reagan would come to the Washington Square to hitchhike home from college,” Kerr said. While Lincoln and Reagan provide marquee names for Washington’s history, Kerr said there is more to Washington. “Washington is a spectacular little gem for history in central Illinois,” Kerr said. “You have such a wide range of historic events that happened
along the way.” Among Kerr’s examples is how Washington was the site of a German POW camp during World War II. The German prisoners worked at Libby’s canning factory. Washington was also where the recipe for Libby’s Pumpkin Pie was created. “And it is still used and printed on the Libby’s can today,” Kerr adds. Kerr and Ruder agreed that a visit to Washington needs to include a walking tour of the Washington Square. Brochures that guide
visitors to the bronze footprints that mark the places in the city where Lincoln visited are available at Denhart Baking Co., 101 Washington Square. Kerr also encouraged planning a trip that includes a visit to the Dement-Zinser House and the Doctor’s Museum, 105 Zinser Place. For more touring of historic Washington, the historical society and the Washington Park District paired up to offer a geocaching adventure of the city. To get started on the geo-caching tour, visitors
should go to the Washington Park District office, 105 S. Spruce St., during regular business hours. “The geo-caching tour is a great way to involve the kids and get them engaged in local history,” Kerr said. “The tour offers 12 different historic sites to check out while visiting Washington.” To begin planning a trip of historic Washington, go to the historical society’s website at www.washington-historical-society.org, visit the society’s Facebook page or call the Washington Chamber of Commerce at 309-444-9921.
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Washington
Dement-Zinser home a glimpse into history By Marlo Guetersloh Times Newspaper
WASHINGTON — Just off of Washington Square is one of the oldest standing homes in town. The Dement-Zinser home, built in 1858, not only gives a glimpse into life in Washington as the little town was first growing and developing in the 1800s, but it represents how the community and society has changed over more than 100 years. Nowadays, the house is the Washington Historical Society’s headquarters and is open for tours and special occasions. “The house is really a showcase of life in Washington from 1858 when the house was built until
ORION Continued from page 48
well as Cardinals tickets, River Bandits tickets, autographed baseballs and posters, John Deere Classic tickets and more. Directed by Emily Roberts, the Orion Community Band will perform at 8:15 p.m. At dusk, the movie “Field of Dreams” will be shown in the band shell. Monday, June 1, is the registration deadline for the children’s Wiffle perforated plastic ball tournament and the family softball tournament. Registration forms are available at the Main Street Orion office and the post office, both on Fourth
about the 1950s,” said Mary Kerr, an archivist with the historical society. The house at 105 Zinser Place was constructed by Richard C. Dement in a post-Colonial style that combines some elements of Federal and Greek Revival, according the Washington Historical Society’s records. The home was first listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2002. Dement first moved to Spring Bay from Cincinnati, Ohio, before moving to Washington. Dement made his living as the owner of a river boat, a trader and postmaster. While in Washington he operated a mercantile store at 107 N. Main St., historical so-
ciety records show. Eventually Dement became city clerk for the city of Washington and served as the supervisor for Washington Township. While Dement built the house, he may have only lived in it less than three years before moving back to Spring Bay, historical society officials speculate. It was sold to Asa Danforth in 1861. Danforth was a prominent local businessmen and banker who was building a large house on East Holland Street during this time. Historical society officials speculate that if Danforth actually lived in the house, it was only temporarily. From 1864-1881, Peter Fifer and his family lived in the Dement-Zinser
Street, and at area businesses. The Wiffle perforated plastic ball tournament for six-player teams will be held from 9 a.m. to noon at the two smaller diamonds in Love Park. Division One will be for boys and girls ages 5 to 9 years old, and Division Two will be for boys and girls ages 10 to 13 years old. Parents must sign a waiver and attend the games. Completed forms and fees may be sent to Main Street Orion/Wiffle Ball, P.O. Box 693, Orion IL 61273. Main Street Orion will provide Wiffle perforated plastic balls and bats. The softball tournament will begin at noon in Love Park. Games will have a
90-minute limit. Teams will consist of six men and six women, who must all play. Players must have completed eighth grade or above. Teams must provide their own equipment, but Main Street Orion will supply the softballs. Orion Little League will provide concessions, set up the field and secure the umpires. Completed forms and fees may be mailed to MSO Family Softball, P.O. Box 693, Orion IL 61273. All participants must sign the waiver on back of sign up form before they play. Registration fees cover a free hat for the children’s tournament and a free embroidered baseball cap for the softball tournament.
house. Fifer was the first elected mayor of Washington. He was elected in 1877. Subsequent owners of the house included Dr. Robert Allen and Gideon Hornish. After Hornish died in 1895, the house became his wife, Mary’s, property. During this time, according to the historical society, Mary’s sister Sarah Zinser died. Sarah had married Solomon Zinser of Minonk. In 1898, the Dement-Zinser house hosted a wedding for Mary Hornish and Solomon Zinser. After Solomon Zinser died in 1902, Mary opened
her door to traveling salesmen and operated the property as a boarding house. Solomon Zinser’s nephew Dr. Harley Zinser purchased the home and significantly restored and renovated the home. Dr. Zinser lived in the house until 1939 when he sold it to his daughter Caroline. Dr. Zinser died in 1941. Caroline and her husband, August Martini, were the last to live in the house. August died in 1976 and Caroline died in 1994. Shortly after Caroline died, the Washington Historical Society purchased the house.
On the corner of the property is a house that was used by Dr. Zinser as his office. The office is operated as a museum that depicts the methods and life of a doctor at the turn of the 20th Century. “The doctor’s museum is another unique feature because it is a time capsule of how doctors took care of their community before the advances in modern medicine,” Kerr said. To schedule a tour of the Dement-Zinser House, call the historical society at 309-444-4793 or the Washington Chamber of Commerce at 309-4449921.
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Manito Classic Cars & Tractor Museum owner Don Nickerson shows of a 1929 Ford Model A at the museum recently. Nickerson said the bench seats were actually very comfortable.
ANNEX Continued from page 46
ing soldiers, the coal mining industry and more than 600 photos from Pekin’s pioneer Photographer Henry Hobart Cole that were donated from the Tazewell County Courthouse. Many of the artifacts have been kept in storage because of a lack of space to display them. The museum relies on private donations and the revenue generated by more than 100 members. Dagit said she appreciates the county’s decision to allow the museum to display their items there. “I love it here,” said Dagit. “This building is awe-
some. “It is one of the very last remaining historical buildings with any architectural style in downtown Pekin. It is a good match for us.” Tazewell County Board Chairman David Zimmerman viewed the museum’s collections for the first time at the grand open-
ing. “I think any time you have a clean accessible space to display our history it is a good thing for Tazewell County,” he said. Funding remains an concern for the museum. The museum pays not only the lease but insurance and security costs.
Tazewell County Museum donation information • For memberships or donations call President and Executive Director Christal Dagit at (309) 840-0177. • Membership applications can be mailed to interested parties. • Donations may be mailed to the Tazewell County Museum, 15 S. Capitol St., Pekin, IL 61554. • The museum is a 501c3 and donations are tax deductible. Caterpillar Inc. matches employee contributions from $50 to $50,000. The donor must notify Caterpillar prior to the donation. Information provided by Tazewell County Museum
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Summer Calendar of Events
MAY
MAY 27-31
WASHINGTON GOOD NEIGHBOR DAYS Taking place just behind John Bearce Properties, 1800 Washington Road, in Washington, this festival includes carnival, vendors, live bands and entertainment. For more information, visit www.washingtoncoc.com or call the Washington Chamber office at 309-444-9921.
JUNE
JUNE 4
MORTON DOWNTOWN DINING STROLL Slated for 5 p.m. in downtown Morton. Join friends and neighbors in downtown Morton on Adams Street to sample creations from local Morton restaurants, live music and kid’s activities.
ment throughout the event, a 5K run/walk, kids activities and flea market. JUNE 6-7 ART ON MAIN FINE ARTS FESTIVAL Festival will open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday on the Canton Square. ANDOVER’S 180TH ANNIVERSARY FESTIVAL All day Saturday and Sunday at Andover Lake Park, Andover Historical Society, American Woman’s League Chapter House, American Legion Post and Jenny Lind Chapel. The weekend includes Civil War re-enactments, an antique lawn and farm tractor show, boomerang and cigar-box guitar makers, a parade, a Little Miss and Mr. Andover contest, a fireworks show, a tug of war, a cemetery walk, a barn quilt tour and quilt show and many other events.
JUNE 5-6
RHUBARB FESTIVAL All day at Central Park in Aledo. This is a free festival that lasts two days celebrating rhubarb. There is a rhubarb tasting tent, entertain-
JUNE 7 RUNGALESBURGRUN Start time 7 a.m., downtown Galesburg. Half marathon, 5K and
GATEHOUSE MEDIA ILLINOIS
1 mile options. Information: rungalesburgrun.com. RAIL TOWN RUMBLE Scheduled for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Lincoln Park Gazebo in Galesburg. Car show and cruise-in. JUNE 10-13 CLAUD-ELEN DAYS Held in Chillicothe. Features family-friendly events, a carnival and more to raise funds for local nonprofits. JUNE 12-14 TREMONT TURKEY FESTIVAL
Takes place in Tremont. Featured are turkey in many forms, most famously grilled, and strawberry shortcakes. www.turkeyfestival.com JUNE 13-14 MORE ON 34, THROUGH SEVEN COUNTIES SANDWICH TO GALESBURG Miles of yard sales through seven counties from Sandwich to Galesburg. Great fun — entertainment, demonstrations, historic sites. Great sales — bargains, treasures, unique collectibles, antiques. Great time — food, lodging, attractions, shopping. Information: www.moreon34.com.
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Summer Calendar of Events JUNE 13 EDGAR LEE MASTERS PROGRAM — Understanding Illinois Burial Grounds and Cemeteries Program will run from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Lewistown.
ZORROFEST Set for 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Cutright Park on Walnut Street in Chillicothe, this celebrates Illinois Valley Central High School graduate Johnson McCulley, creator of the fictional hero Zorro. Opens with the Parade of Real and Mythical Superheroes at 11 a.m. JUNE 16-18
NATURE ADVENTURE FOR KIDS This program is for kids ages 10 to 12 and will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Register by June 5 with Dickson Mounds Museum, 10956 N. Dickson Mounds Road, in Lewistown.
THE TOMFOOLERY SHOW Set for the Orpheum Theatre, 57 S. Kellogg St., in Galesburg. Tickets at Orpheum Theatre, 309-3422299 or www.theorpheum.org. MAIN STREET ORION'S CELEBRATION OF BASEBALL All day Saturday in Central and Love parks in Orion. The day includes a children's Wiffle perforated plastic ball tournament in the morning, a family slow-pitch softball tournament in the afternoon, and stadium food, a cheer team performance, a live auction of sports memorabilia, an Orion Community Band concert and a showing of "Field of Dreams" in the evening.
EDGAR LEE MASTERS READING by Paddy and Jon Lynn The time for this program is to be announced at Big Creek Park in Canton.
MIDSOMMAR MUSIC FESTIVAL Slated for 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (and dance at 7 p.m.) in Bishop Hill (mostly in village park). A lively Swedish tradition, people celebrate the summer solstice with music, workshops and a center stage concert. Music performed 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. A Maypole is decorated at 4 p.m. and delivered by a procession to the Colony School, where singing and dancing continue. A barn dance is at night at the school. If questions, call 309927-3311.
JUNE 17
JUNE 21
CANTON MUSIC IN THE PARK Event set for 6 to 8 p.m. at Jones Park on the Canton Square.
CELEBRATE THE SUMMER SOLSTICE Program scheduled for 5 to 6:30 a.m. at Dickson Mounds Museum, 10956 N. Dickson Mounds Road, in Lewistown.
JUNE 16
JUNE 19
24TH ANNUAL CANTON CRUISEIN CAR AND MOTORCYCLE SHOW Event will begin at 4 p.m. on the Canton Square. JUNE 20 RED CARPET SERIES:
Dickson Mounds Museum, 10956 N. Dickson Mounds Road, in Lewistown. JUNE 25-29 MACOMB HERITAGE DAYS CELEBRATION With a 2015 "Macomb's Healthcare Tradition" theme, this fourday event will showcase carnival rides, daily entertainment, family games, other community events and an elaborate Saturday parade through downtown. JUNE 25 EAST PEORIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE GOLF OUTING Set to take place at Quail Meadows Golf Course, 2215 Centennial Drive, in East Peoria. Call 309-6996212 for more information.
JUNE 26 CANTON MUSIC IN THE PARK Event set for 6 to 8 p.m. at Jones Park on the Canton Square. JUNE 27-28 NORTH HENDERSON NATIONAL LIVESTOCK SHOW Set for 9 a.m. at the North Henderson ball park. All students within the United School district are invited to participate in the livestock show for prizes. RAILROAD DAYS In Galesburg, this annual event celebrating the city's railroad heritage with a carnival, exhibits, street fair, rail yard tours, 5 and 10k runs, hobby train show, flea market, rib cook-off, and much more. More than 40 events, mostly free. Info: galesburgrailroaddays.org.
JUNE 23-25 NATURE ADVENTURE FOR KIDS This program is for kids ages 7 to 9. It will be held from 9 a.m. to noon. Register by June 12 with
DAILY LEDGER FILE PHOTO
Antique cars line the east side of Canton’s Square for last year's Cruise In. This year's event will be held Friday, June 19.
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GAZETTE FILE PHOTO CAMBRIDGE CHRONICLE FILE PHOTOO GENESEO REPUBLIC FILE PHOTO
Maggie Schlindwein is crowned the 2014 Music Fest Queen. The 2015 pageant will be June 19 in Geneseo.
Jill Darin of Geneseo shows her award-winning entries in the culinary show at the 2014 Henry County Fair in Cambridge.
Isabelle Wright of Andover shows the fish she caught during the children's fishing derby at the 2014 More Fun on 81 in Andover. The 2015 festival, scheduled for Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7, also includes a fishing derby at Andover Lake.
Summer Calendar of Events JUNE 27 NATURE TREK — GEOLOGY TOUR Program to be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Register with Dickson Mounds Museum, 10956 N. Dickson Mounds Road, in Lewistown.
MERCER COUNTY RELAY FOR LIFE Event scheduled for noon to midnight in Central Park in Aledo. The park will be filled with teams raising money for the American Cancer Society.
beginning in the late 1800s, is continued through this annual event. Pottery on the Square features an appraisal clinic, displays and demonstrations. It's set for 8 a.m. to noon on the Monmouth Public Square.
MORTON VFW FIREWORKS CELEBRATION Scheduled for 5 p.m. on Veterans Road in Morton. Festivities start at 5 p.m. with live entertainment great food and beverages. Fireworks are at dusk.
SONGBAG SERIES: Chris Vallillo, railroad tunes and Sandburg-inspired music Begins 7 p.m. at a special location, Railroad Museum shelter. A donation of $3 per person is suggested.
JULY 4
JULY
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION Taking place at Cutright Park on Walnut Street in Chillicothe, the city’s annual Independence Day celebration features fireworks, music and more.
JUNE 28 POTTERY ON THE SQUARE Monmouth's history of stoneware,
JULY 3
DR. FORD'S ANNUAL FOURTH OF JULY FROG RACE
Activities begin at 10 a.m. at Central Park in Aledo. Youth and adult race frogs for about two hours during the day. More than 100 individuals expected to compete. FREEDOM FEST 7 a.m. through evening fireworks, throughout Galva, mostly in Wiley Park and Galva Park District. Galva's annual Independence Day celebration is fun morning through evening - beginning with a pancake breakfast and 5K run/walk all the way through one of the best fireworks shows in Illinois. Parade midday, talent show late afternoon and many other activities. Info: Galva City Hall at 309-932-2555.
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Summer Calendar of Events
JULY 5-11
MERCER COUNTY FAIR All day at the Mercer County Fairgrounds in Aledo. The fair features a variety of events from harness racing, a demolition derby, truck/tractor pull and livestock shows.
JULY 11
NATURE TREK — EXPERIENCE A VOYAGEUR CANOE Program set for 9 a.m. to noon. Register with Dickson Mounds Museum, 10956 N. Dickson Mounds Road, in Lewistown.
FLYING FISH BOWFISHING TOURNAMENT Event set for 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. with weigh-in at 2 p.m. at Bass Pro Shops. $120 per team of up to four. Raffle, activities. Bow fishing cash prizes: 1st prize is $2,500. For more information, email: peoriaflyingfish@gmail.com.
KIDS' FEST Activities scheduled from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the Canton Square.
MORTON DOWNTOWN SUPER CRUISE Set for 4 to 9 p.m. on Main Street in Morton. Since 2004 the village of Morton has been the location for the one day Vintage Car Cruise. Over 500 cars manufactured from 1930 to 2013 converge upon the village for the six-hour event, which draws about 1200 visitors. 1950s music fills the streets and great “All American” food is served in the local restaurants. No entry fee for cars or people.
JULY 12
KNOX COUNTY FAIR QUEEN PAGEANT Begins at 5 p.m. at Orpheum Theatre, 57 S. Kellogg St., in Galesburg. JULY 15-18 KNOX COUNTY FAIR Taking place in Knoxville. Free entertainment, beer garden, great food, vendors, carnival, nightly grandstand events, exhibits and much more. Figure 8 racing and the ever-popular demolition derby. Information: www.knoxfair.com. JULY 17 CANTON MUSIC IN THE PARK Event set for 6 to 8 p.m. at Jones Park on the Canton Square.
ment and beer garden. TRACTOR SHOW AND OLD FASHIONED ICE CREAM SOCIAL Slated for 4 to 8 p.m. at 300 N. Main St. in Morton. Come see vintage tractors and join in the fun at an old fashioned ice cream social hosted by the Morton Community United Church of Christ. JULY 23 DOWNTOWN THURSDAYS AND CHILLICOTHE CORN FEST AND BACK TO SCHOOL BASH Set for 4 to 7 p.m. on Second Street in Chillicothe, this monthly market on Second Street is combined with city’s annual corn festival. Bash will feature live music, food and vendors. Final round of the Chillicothe Idol singing competition.
THE GREAT BALLOON RACE At Lake Storey Park in Galesburg. No admission fee. A color-filled weekend of 25 plus hot air balloons flying overhead. Featuring night glows, competition, opportunity to view up close and talk to pilots. Approximate launch times: Friday 6 a.m., Saturday 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., Sunday 6 a.m. All events are weather permitting. www.galesburgballoonrace.com. JULY 24 CANTON MUSIC IN THE PARK Event set for 6 to 8 p.m. at Jones Park on the Canton Square. JULY 31
JULY 17-19 EDGAR LEE MASTERS PROGRAM — LOVE, ITSELF PLAY Event will be held at 6:30 p.m. Friday, 3 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday at Dickson Mounds Museum, 10956 N. Dickson Mounds Road, in Lewistown.
JULY 24-26
TASTE OF GALESBURG Held in downtown Galesburg. Sample food from numerous area restaurants, enjoy live entertain-
CANTON MUSIC IN THE PARK Event set for 6 to 8 p.m. at Jones Park on the Canton Square.
COUNTRY LIFE MUSIC FESTIVAL Three-day festival features big names in country music like Lynyrd Skynyrd, Keith Urban, Toby Keith, Travis Tritt, Joe Nichols and more. It's held at Three Sisters Park, 17189 State Route 29, in Chillicothe. JULY 18 WASHINGTON’S SUMMER SMALL BUSINESS Many Washington retailers will participate with sales and deals. Call 309-444-9921 for more information. GATEHOUSE MEDIA ILLINOIS
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Summer Calendar of Events
MONMOUTH CRUISE NIGHT Event will be set for 6 to 10 p.m. Main Street in Monmouth. Thousands of car enthusiasts converge in downtown Monmouth for the city's annual car show, featuring classic vehicles as well as newer ones.
AUGUST AUG. 4
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT Activities scheduled from 4 to 7 p.m. on the Canton Square. AUG. 13-15
NEW WINDSOR FAIR AND RODEO All day at the New Windsor Fairgrounds. The three day festival features a street parade, kiddie parade, Rodeo Run as well as a rodeo for three nights.
AUG. 21-22
h AUG. 14-16 HERITAGE DAYS At Lake Storey Park in Galesburg. Featuring Civil War Battle Reenactments and Pre 1840s Rendezvous. A traveling family circus, period food stands and crafts for sale, fishing contest for children, canoe races on the lake, President Lincoln and Benjamin Franklin, night firing of cannons and a military ball. More information at www.heritagedays.com.
RIVER-2-RIVER CRUISE NIGHT AND CAR SHOW In Galesburg. Hundreds of vintage cars, street rods, trucks, antiques, special interest vehicles, with a cruise on Main Street Friday night. Food, entertainment, vendors celebrity drivers and collectors fun for the whole family. New this year, car show and swap meet, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., June 22, at Lowe's Parking Lot. AUG. 29
AUG. 15-16 WASHINGTON FINE ARTS FESTIVAL Event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at Washington Park, 900 Lincoln St., in Washington. Call 309-444-9413 for more information.
DAILY TIMES FILE PHOTO
This replica of the Spirit of St. Louis hangs in the Manito Classic Car & Tractor Museum. Charles Lindbergh's grandson, Erik Lindbergh, autographed the inside of the door of the plane.
ANTIQUE DAYS All day at Central Park in Aledo. This one day festival features a car show, antique tractor and engine show, antique market on the courthouse lawn as well as food and other entertainment. “MUSCLES ON MAIN” STRONGMAN CONTEST
Set for 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in downtown Morton. The contest consists of six weight lifting/strength elements. The public is invited to view these amazing feats of strength by these dedicated athletes. Also on hand will be food. Spectators are free.
SEPTEMBER SEPT. 7-12 NATIONAL STEARMAN FLY-IN DAYS In Galesburg. Annual event that hosts the largest gathering of Stearman bi-planes in the world and includes fun flying, exhibits, seminars, and fly-outs to various locations. The event also includes numerous contests including: flour bombing, precision aerobatics, formation flying and short field take off and spot landings. The event concludes with annual banquet on Saturday evening. Information:
MCDONOUGH CO. VOICE FILE PHOTO
A clown interacts with a young girl during the 2013 Heritage Days weekend in Macomb. The four-day event features several days of entertainment and carnival activities in and around Macomb’s Chandler Park, among other events.
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Summer Calendar of Events Galesburg. Take a leisurely stroll through downtown Galesburg's Standish Park Arboretum and view the creations of regional artists working in a variety of media. In addition to the over 50 artists booths, attendees will enjoy an assortment of food, family activities and musical entertainment. Information: www.galesburgarts.org. SEPT. 13 GREAT CARDBOARD BOAT REGATTA At Lake Storey Recreational Area in Galesburg. Annual regatta features competition among a variety of cardboard boats created to be attractive and unique as well as "seaworthy." Fun and entertainment for the entire family! The Rubber Duck Race will follow the regatta. SEPT. 15 TASTE OF WASHINGTON Event features local restaurants and eateries offering samples of food. Location to be determined. Visit www.washingtoncoc.com for more information. MCDONOUGH CO. VOICE FILE PHOTO
Spectators watch on during the 2013 Macomb Balloon Rally’s balloon glow, which ends the two-day event each year.
SEPT. 16-19 stearmanflyin.com. SEPT. 9-12
WARREN COUNTY PRIME BEEF FESTIVAL Set for North 11th Street north of U.S. Route 34 with various other Monmouth locations. The traditional festival kicks off with a parade along Broadway and also features a princess pageant, demolition derby, livestock judging, rides, food and more. SEPT. 10-13 PEKIN MARIGOLD FESTIVAL
Takes place in Pekin. Based on favorite son Sen. Everett Dirksen’s love of the marigold, festival features Art in the Park, a Festive Food Court, kid activities, a carnival, a parade and more. www.pekinchamber.com/marigold festival.html.
SEPT. 12-13 THRESHERS REUNION All day in Viola. There will be a gas engine and tractor show, a display of steam power, kids fishing derby and entertainment. SEPT. 12
SEPT. 11-12 2015 MACOMB BALLOON RALLY This two-day event features a Friday night mass balloon ascension, Saturday morning balloon fly-in and Saturday evening balloon glow with family-friendly entertainment.
CEMETERY ART AND SCAVENGER HUNT Event will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery in Lewistown. ART IN THE PARK At Standish Park in downtown
MORTON PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Features all things pumpkin. www.mortonpumpkinfestival.org SEPT. 18-20 AL SEARS JAZZ FESTIVAL This annual tradition celebrates the Macomb-born jazz musician with three days of music, shows and entertainment in Macomb's Chandler Park and around Macomb. Events in Chandler Park are free. Accompanying the music on Saturday in the park is the annual Gazebo Art Festival through late afternoon.
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Summer Calendar of Events SEPT. 19
EDGAR LEE MASTERS READING By Paddy and Jon Lynn Program set for 2 p.m. at Dickson Mounds Museum, 10956 N. Dickson Mounds Road, in Lewistown.
WASHINGTON’S ANNUAL AUTUMN FEST Located on the Washington Square and hosted by the Washington Specialty Shops Association, this event features live music, food and children’s activities.
OCTOBER OCT. 1 OKTOBERFEST BUSINESS EXPO East Peoria Chamber of Commerce set for the Par-A-Dice Hotel, 21 Blackjack Blvd., in East Peoria. Call 309-699-6212 for more information. OCT. 3-4 SCARECROW FESTIVAL At Standish Park in downtown
Galesburg's annual Heritage Days event takes place Aug. 14-16.
Galesburg. Enjoy live entertainment, handmade crafts, children's activities, food and much more. View and vote on homemade scarecrows in five different categories, only visitors vote on their favorite scarecrows to win.
KNOX COUNTY SCENIC DRIVE Enjoy historic sites, displays, demonstrations and country cooking as you take a self-conducted driving tour through some of the most beautiful parts of the historic Spoon River Valley.
OCT. 3-4, 10-11
OCT. 3
SPOON RIVER SCENIC DRIVE A variety of businesses and groups around Fulton County and the region participate at various times and locations. For more, visit www.spoonriverdrive.org.
PUMPKIN FEST All day in Sherrard. There will be a 5K run, kids games, car show and street dance from 8 p.m. until midnight
MCDONOUGH CO. VOICE FILE PHOTO
GATEHOUSE MEDIA ILLINOIS
The annual Al Sears Jazz Festival in Macomb each September features a variety of jazz musical acts and performers over its three-day stint. All of the shows in Chandler Park are free and open to the public.
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