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Living 1

Illinois Valley

Spring 2016

A brush up on Harmony. See our story on Page 4.

Illinois Valley Living

3 Terri’s column

Welcoming spring to the Illinois Valley

Living Illinois Valley

here’s just something about a fresh breath of spring air that makes one happy and ready for the season in front of us. No doubt, you’ve already seen signs of spring in your own backyard; after all, Mother Nature has a way of painting her spring scenery for all to admire. While I enjoy all the seasons that Illinois has to offer, I have to believe spring is my favorite. There’s just something so fresh, so innocent, so vulnerable. I’ve always believed spring is an opportunity for second chances, if only we embrace them. Spring is a chance to look at our world here in the Illinois Valley with fresh eyes. Try watching for the little things we most often ignore. We are all very busy, but I firmly believe we should take the time to embrace this season and watch it unfold around us. Breathe. Exhale. Enjoy. I hope you enjoy this edition of Illinois Valley Living, filled with the people, places and things that make our area special and a wonderful place to call home. Even though I was born and raised in this area, I always learn something new about the Illinois Valley in every edition of our magazine. I hope you do too. Do you have any story ideas you’d like to submit for our Illinois Valley Living newsroom to consider? We embrace your ideas. Feel free to give me a call at 815-875-4461, ext. 6330, or email me at tsimon@bcrnews.com. This magazine is published for you, our readers, and we encourage you to call with your story ideas, comments, suggestions. On behalf of Illinois Valley Living magazine, I hope you have a great spring filled with wonderful surprises. Remember, there is only one Spring 2016. Enjoy every minute. Warm regards, Terri Simon, Editor

PUBLISHER Sam R Fisher EDITOR Terri Simon AD DIRECTOR Jennifer Heintzelman PAGE DESIGN Breanne Hunter PUBLISHED BY The Bureau County Republican 800 Ace Road Princeton, Illinois 61356 815-875-4461 MAIN COVER PHOTOS Kath Clark

• Drive across two of the six covered bridges in Illinois Red Covered and Captain Swift • Take a tour of the Owen Lovejoy Homestead - national historical landmark & integral part of the Underground Railroad • Festival 56 - small town, big drama! Illinois’ largest summer theatre • Shadows of the Blue and Gray - one of the Midwest’s largest living history festivals • Plus the Homestead Festival, brick streets, architecture, shopping and much, much more!

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Creating Harmony in Utica ONE-OF-A-KIND VINTAGE FURNITURE PIECES TAKE ON NEW LIFE Story by Terri Simon | Photos by Kath Clark

hen you walk into Harmony Paintings and Home Decor, you almost feel as if you’re walking into the home of a friend — a friend who has a really cool home, decorated to make you feel comfortable, able to relax, happy. Owner Michelle Harmon adds to the ambiance. Quick to flash a smile, her eyes light up when she talks about her products — vintage, one-of-a-kind, painted furniture pieces mixed with an eclectic blend of home decor products. For those who enjoy adding special touches to their homes, it’s a shopper’s paradise, where you’re bound to see just the right piece — the one for which you’ve been searching for quite some time.

Michelle Harmon arranges a display of seasonal items atop one of the vintage chest of drawers she has restored.

Michelle Harmon breaths new life into old furniture using a lot of elbow grease, paint and a good share of imagination and creativity. 4 Illinois Valley Living

5 The popular Utica store opened in December 2014, and already, Harmon said she’s bursting at the proverbial seams in her small Mill Street shop. Formerly a hair stylist for eight years, Harmon has now transferred her creative flair to helping people decorate their homes. Using the popular Annie Sloan Chalk Paint®, Harmon takes old pieces of furniture and turns them into something that is sure to catch one’s eye. Whether it’s an old table, a chest of drawers, old metal bed springs ... the sky is really the limit when it comes to Harmon’s artistic eye and the vintage pieces she discovers and ultimately transforms. “It’s all old furniture, no new furniture,” Harmon said. “If it’s lasted 100 years, it can last 100 years more.” Harmon does no custom work; and she doesn’t strip furniture. Basically, she acquires her vintage pieces through a variety of means, including social networks. Most of her discoveries come from those who know her talents and call her about a piece of furniture they want to get out of their home. She also has a Facebook page and an Instagram account, where potential shoppers/ sellers can see what pieces Harmon has “under construction.” As of late, Harmon described her business as “insane,” further clarifying how busy she has been and how quickly her vintage, one-of-a-kind pieces move out of her store.

Harmony Paintings stocks, sells and uses Annie Sloan Chalk Paint®, an item owner Michelle Harmon says is integral to the restoration of old furniture.

Besides vintage furniture, home decor products help accentuate the inviting atmosphere at Harmony Paintings in Utica.

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6 “It’s been insane, in a great way,” she said, flashing a smile and telling stories of how people see a picture of a recently-finished piece on social media and buy the piece from her over the phone. Harmon said local customers are abundant, however, she’s got a good share of repeat business from those in Chicago and beyond. While Harmon’s creations require a good share of “elbow grease,” she is limited only by her own imagination. She said her products move quickly out of her store, and if you see it today, it might be gone tomorrow. A small table, the legs painted with a still-wet coat of a muted blue paint with a tabletop of freshly-scrubbed oak, sits at the back of the store, and Harmon glances at it every now and then ... Her most recent undertaking is fresh in her mind, and she doesn’t mind admitting the process the old table undergoes is somewhat therapeutic. “I get attached to some of the pieces,” she said. “It’s hard to part with some; it’s kind of amazing. But once I start painting, I tune everything out. It’s what I do.” The home decor pieces complimenting Harmon’s furniture change frequently, depending on her mood and the season. “Actually, my style changes with the seasons,” she said, noting right now some spring items mixed with a myriad of soy candles, scarves and other decorative items add the finishing touches to her work. Harmon began her journey in restoring old furniture when she began admiring pieces of furniture on Pinterest. She gave it a try. “I said, ‘This looks neat. I can do that,’” and her first piece was born. Initially she began selling her vintage pieces individually, and then she got a booth and started selling her items there. After looking around in the Illinois Valley area she eventually settled on her store in Utica, where the tourists and the locals have embraced her. Harmony Paintings and Home Decor is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday; from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday; and from noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. The store is closed on Tuesday. For more information, you can contact Harmon at the store at 815-667-5198.

Michelle Harmon’s artistic eye transformed this old buffet, giving it new life for the right customer. Illinois Valley Living

Critical care’s cutting edge ST. MARGARET’S HAS MADE MAJOR IMPROVEMENTS TO ITS EMERGENCY ROOM Story and photos Dave Cook

Each of the new exam rooms provide increased privacy for patients and state-of-the-art equipment. Construction is currently underway on improved waiting areas for patients and their families.

Illinois Valley Living

n times of medical emergencies, speed and efficiency are critical. St. Margaret’s Health has recently taken great steps in ensuring their patients receive the best care possible with a $5.5 million expansion and renovation of their emergency room department. The first phase of the project has created an additional 4,200 square feet and provides new exam rooms, greater privacy, new equipment, a safe room for patients with psychiatric needs, easy access to the elevators, a larger nurses’ area and larger support areas. Work is still being done to a much larger waiting room, a results pending area and a family consultation room. Another welcomed improvement is a new corridor which routes hospital traffic around the emergency room rather than through it, greatly increasing privacy and efficiency of movement for the ER staff.

8 “There has been a little challenge with the changing of the flow, but it’s been great,” said Jolene Woitynek, director of critical care services. Woitynek also spoke of the significant improvements of both the additional space and extra equipment the project has provided. “The nurse’s station is now 40 feet long, and there are 14 computers available within the ER. Previously we had three, two at the nurses’ station and a portable. Now, each room is equipped with it’s own computer, cardiac monitor and the same equipment, so we can treat the patient the same no matter what room they’re in.” said Woitynek. The ER has also been furnished with a portable sonogram which will allow a physician to rapidly diagnose internal bleeding in trauma patients at the bedside, as opposed to having to transfer the patient to another part of the hospital. “We’ve also developed all kinds of specialty carts, so if you have a laceration, a broken bone, a trauma, or an ear, nose and throat problem, we just take the cart we need rather than having to go gather all the necessary supplies from different areas,” said Woitynek. Tim Muntz, St. Margaret’s president /CEO said, “At some point, nearly everyone needs access to emergency care, so the goal of the project is to improve the overall ER experience. We are excited about what this project will provide to our patients and the communities we serve.”

Each exam room is now equipped with it’s own computer. This improvement will help increase the speed and efficiency of the department, two things of great importance in times of medical emergencies.

Emergency room nurses now have plenty of work space, and the additional computers will help them provide faster and higher quality care to the patients of St. Margaret’s Health. 8

Illinois Valley Living

Take a road trip to

KENYON’S PLACE FOR THREE DECADES, THE COUPLE HAS BEEN OFFERING GREAT FOOD AND FOND MEMORIES Story by Goldie Rapp | Photos contributed

Illinois Valley Living

or 30 years, Kenyon’s Place in Lacon has provided a place for customers to relax, take a break from the outside world and enjoy quality comfort food with their family and friends. With their welcoming smiles and warm hearts, owners Bill and Anita Kenyon have that special knack of making even their newcomers feel like regulars. Perhaps that is the secret to running a well-known, successful business in such a small town. Many flock for miles from all directions to enjoy the casual restaurant setting while getting a taste of what the Kenyon’s kitchen is serving. The menu caters to a large audience, offering plenty of lunch and dinner options from steaks, seafood and chicken to ham loaf, spaghetti, tortellini, salads, 20 sides choices and much more.

10 “We think about adding something to the menu every day, but it’s so big right now — what do you delete, and what do you add?” Anita said. The Kenyon’s menu is full of homemade recipes, which Bill and Anita have crafted throughout the years. Many of the dishes offered are some of their own favorites mixed with items customers have requested over time. A good deal of secret recipes float within Kenyon’s kitchen including the menu’s bread pudding dessert, spaghetti sauce, caramel raisin sauce that’s drizzled over ham loaf, soups, Anita’s cucumber onion salad and even the popular sweet corn fritters that are offered complimentary to all customers. But it’s not just the food that brings people to a table at Kenyon’s. Many can attest to the easy-going atmosphere Bill and Anita strive to create. If you’re new in town, it’s more than likely you’ll meet your first friends at Kenyon’s. Just like in the renowned show “Cheers,” the Kenyon’s lounge is a place to see familiar faces and where most likely everyone knows your name. A number of good memories have been made inside the walls of Kenyon’s. Many have spent birthdays, anniversaries, holiday dinners, reunions, retirements and many other special events at the restaurant. For a lot of folks, it’s a tradition to eat at Kenyon’s on special occasions because that’s just what their family has always done. Aside from events, Kenyon’s is where many have also experienced their first work — whether it be a waitress, bus boy or cook. The business has generated numerous jobs in its time. Through the years, many Kenyon employees have worked themselves through college, bought their first homes and even took the skills they learned at the restaurant into their lifelong careers. Bill and Anita also like to talk about the employees who’ve met in their restaurant and ended up getting married, having kids and still come back to enjoy a meal from the kitchen they once worked for.

Bill Kenyon slices steaks for the menu. All meats served at Kenyon’s Place are hand cut in the restaurant’s kitchen. Kenyon’s offers plenty of lunch and dinner options for its customers —from steaks, seafood and chicken to ham loaf, spaghetti, tortellini, salads and much more.

Kenyon’s Place in Lacon attracts customers from all over Central Illinois and beyond. With a casual restaurant atmosphere and wide variety menu — Kenyon’s is the perfect spot to hold all kinds of special events for families and friends. Many book birthdays, anniversaries, holiday dinners, reunions, retirements and more at Kenyon’s. 10

Illinois Valley Living

11 “It’s family. They are all our family,” Anita said, referring to her employees. “It’s a feeling of being complete.” Bill and Anita are always looking to surround themselves with good people. “If you surround yourself with good people, you’re going to be successful,” Bill said. While 30 years of business can seem like a long time, the Kenyons say it doesn’t feel like it’s been that long. Maybe because they’ve been having so much fun along the way. The high school sweethearts have grown together in the industry — they’ve raised two children in their business, conquered the everyday challenges of running a restaurant and continue to enjoy take-out meals from their own kitchen each night when the evening has settled down. While the times may have changed, the Kenyons say the one thing that stays the same is the great customers that continue to walk through the doors of their restaurant. “The generations keep on coming,” Bill said. Kenyon’s Place is located on Route 17 East in Lacon. Hours are 5 p.m. to close Wednesday and Thursday; 4:30 p.m. to close Friday and Saturday and 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday. The restaurant is closed on Monday and Tuesday.

Illinois Valley Living

Anita Kenyon makes up batches of her popular cucumber onion salad, which is only served at the restaurant from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Anita said the cucumbers are best during that time of year. While many have asked for her famous recipe, it remains one of the many food secrets that float within Kenyon’s kitchen.

Wrapped around a glass flower Story by Eric Engel | Photos contributed

TISKILWA BROTHERS FIND THEIR INNER ARTIST THROUGH JEWELRY MELDED OF WIRE AND GEMSTONE

eep in the caverns of imagination rests the coal of composition. These veins of concept, ideas waiting to be developed, are pressed and compounded by the circuits of the brain in an effort to unleash the purest provisions. In time, the art is unearthed. The crystals of creativity are formed. A few years back, Marshall Ary saw a sparkle. He saw it hanging around the campus of Heartland Community College in Normal. He saw it at shows he attended, and cruising down the city streets of his routines. He felt it deep in his bones, where that coal has always sat, and he knew his shine could be confined no longer. Ary, a Tiskilwa native, began making wire wrapped jewelry because of his intrinsic affection for cuts of color that sprout like glass flowers beneath the ground. “It’s a really unique artform that sparked my interest because I’ve always been fascinated with crystals,” he said, noting they grow in the earth for centuries and can be found in every crevice of the planet. “Wire wrapping is one of the main ways today to make jewelry that utilizes raw gemstones.” Wire jewelry involves wrapping spools of wire around gemstones in a unique and artistic way. Multiple gemstones can be surrounded by dozens of spools of wire of varying size and thickness, and the weaving and coiling of the wires as well as the color and placement of the gemstones demands true artistic ingenuity. Multiple types of pliers are used to assist the artist, and each pendent, ring or bracelet can take up to 40 or 50 hours to complete.

Illinois Valley Living

13 “Before I start wrapping the stone I just sit there and stare at it, examining all the faces, visualizing how I’m going to set it in the wire so I can see it before it comes together,” said Ary, fully aware the intricate and detailed work makes it hard for people to understand when and where each wire bends. “It really isn’t that hard at all and anybody can pick it up. Just like most forms of art, all it takes is getting started.” Marshall’s older brother, Brewer Ary, noticed his sibling’s handiwork about a year back and found that same sparkle flushed with atomic fusion to the designs within his mind. “It’s such a beautiful art form,” said Brewer, who afforded a successful wrap to practice and patience. “Anybody can put crystals in wire, but once you find techniques you like you start to develop your own unique style, setting yourself apart from other artists.” The Ary brothers both said the wire jewelry scene has been around for decades and yet still remains a rumbling underground current, breaking through seams of the surface with every passing day. Trial and error influences the experiment in every new mix of metal curve and crystal swerve, and the fact no piece will ever be identically replicated makes for a market with an arrow aiming upward. “Once you look at it not as a piece of jewelry, but as a piece of art, it becomes that much cooler,” Marshall said, noting they are not pioneers of the movement, simply additions to it. Brewer, who attends Illinois State University, mentioned the craft requires “hobby time” by the boat load, and although there are stretches of days when no wire tastes a twist, there are also days when “you can feel it and just wish you could get a wrap in.” With wire wrapping somehow still holding course on roads outside the mainstream route, much of the metal work is hard to mistake. “There are only a few in the city doing it, so when you see someone wearing a wire wrap, you can almost identify whose wrap it is,” said Marshall, noting it’s not just college students who want this unique flash, but collectors and love birds as well.

Marshall Ary (left) showcases wire wrapped jewelry he and his older brother, Brewer Ary, have created throughout the last few years. The Tiskilwa natives utilize raw gem stones and multiple spools of intricate wire to create artwork born in the heart of the earth and forged by their imagination.

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Illinois Valley Living

14 Both young men reiterated many gemstones are quite affordable, and although some cost hundreds of dollars each, creativity rooted in the heart cannot be priced, and the desire to work hard for something beautiful cannot be bought. “Taking the time to set crystals in precious metals in unique ways is wicked, and the more a person sees the better they understand the value of it all,” said Brewer, with Marshall adding the wires don’t wrap themselves, and a learning curve sharp as stone forces them to scrap techniques and acquire others to get better. “You can’t just walk around the streets and say, ‘Yo, you want some art and spend a couple hundred bucks?’ It’s doesn’t work that way,” Marshall said. “You have to hone in on your craft and bust your butt to sell expensive pieces.” Marshall said when he first started he was trying to make money, but as he’s developed his style, he knows it is the crimson curve of a wrapped up ruby that has always made him rich. “When I’m making a piece it’s not about money, it’s about making something for a friend they can hand down to their kids, because I’m really pouring myself into it and making something they love,” Marshall said, finding content in the patient improvement found with every new challenge. Brewer called wire jewelry a “limitless artform” that can be maneuvered in any future direction, and he is honored to fulfill a companion’s request for any custom piece. “You’re just flowing, using your best pieces, so it’s never time wasted because you don’t have to clock in or answer to a boss,” said Brewer, who joins his brother in wrapping a string of his heart around each piece he creates. “Sometimes it’s hard to hand one out because each one is a little nostalgic, but someone else wants it on their chest, so I can dig it.” Visit Ary Pieces on Facebook to catch a glimpse of the sparkle for yourself.

Illinois Valley Living

Story and photos by Dave Cook

In a galaxy far, far away...

Illinois Valley Living

here was an impressive collection of Star Wars memorabilia and replicas on display in Princeton’s Prouty Building prior to the premier of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” at the adjacent Apollo Theater. Scheduled specifically to appeal to fans waiting in line for the long awaited sequel, those who viewed the display weren’t disappointed. Featuring ephemera from the collection of Ohio, Ill., resident Peter Wentworth-Shields, who worked in the art department during the first “Star Wars” film (1977), this collection contained items which any fan would find impressive. Wentworth-Shields is the owner of an original, first draft script. The cover includes a sticker which reads “The Star Wars” and the opening page is titled, “The Adventures of Luke Starkiller as taken from the ‘Journal of the Whills’ by George Lucas.”

Peter Wentworth-Shields, who worked in the art department during the production of the first Star Wars film, brought along his impressive collection of design sheets and ephemera. Fans were able to view designs from the Millennium Falcon and the Death Star, as well as the original script.

16 He also brought his original design sheets for the cockpit of the much loved Millennium Falcon. Wentworth-Shields also drew the designs for the Death Star’s garbage compactor and the kitchen interior on Tatooine. He gave a talk about his time with George Lucas and company, hosted a question and answer session, and shared his many behind-the-scenes photos and items. “It was a rather bizarre set. I worked directly under John Barry (Academy Award winning production designer). He did most of the designing, so I drew what he described, and we made a lot of models. They were very roughly built, small scale models, made of cardboard, cut out and glued together. It was purely for the director to get a feel for the space he was going to work with, so he could design the actors’ movements and get a feel for the way it looked. Then from that, we would go on to working drawings,” said Wentworth-Shields. While working on set, Wentworth-Shields never saw what the Star Wars galaxy would become for its fans. “Absolutely not a clue and I don’t think Lucas did either. I think he was surprised as anybody with the success and the longevity. It just goes on and on and on; it spans generations now,” said Wentworth-Shields. Apollo Theater owner Jay Schneider premiered the newest chapter of Star Wars on both of his screens. “There was a huge amount of anticipation. The ‘Harry Potter’ movies had a large following with kids growing up with the movies, but the ‘Star Wars’ movies is a whole different crowd. With ‘Star Wars,’ there are 50-60-year-old fans and everything below,” said Schneider. The event was organized by Scott Massino, who went to school with Wentworth-Shield’s son, and Ryan Sondgeroth

Ryan Sondgeroth enjoyed displaying his functional, hand-built, R2-D2 replica during the event. As one of the most easily recognizable characters of Star Wars, fans lined up to have their picture taken with the droid they were looking for. in conjunction with Schneider and the Chamber of Commerce’s Kim Frey. “I wanted to give something back to my hometown,” said Massino. Sondgeroth displayed his beautifully hand-built, aluminum, full-size working replica of R2-D2 and his full-size replica of Han Solo frozen in carbonite along with the many other items on display. Sondgeroth grew up as a fan of Star Wars, but didn’t become fully committed until after

a lengthy stay in a hospital bed following a serious accident. “I’ve always been a fan, but it wasn’t ‘til after my accident that I really got into it. You know, when you get in an accident like mine, where you are paralyzed and going through some significant life changes, you want to get the hell out of here, and there’s no better place than a galaxy far, far away,” said Sondgeroth.

Above: Fans were treated to an up-close view of several of the helmets featured throughout the Star Wars saga. Located next to the theater, the Prouty Building was the perfect location for this event. Those arriving early for the premier were treated to many rare authentic items, high quality replicas and a chance to speak to someone who was behind the scenes of the first film. Right: Fans excited for the premier of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” at the nearby Apollo Theater enjoyed the items on display in Princeton’s Prouty Building. Along with R2-D2, Ryan Sondgeroth brought his handmade replica of Han Solo frozen in carbonite, a well known moment from “The Empire Strikes Back.” 16

Illinois Valley Living

17 LaSalle Page

LaSalle ILLINOIS RIVER TOWN OFFERS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE LaSalle history Before settlers came to the area, the Illinois Valley was inhabited by a people known as the Mound Builders and the Native Americans. Because of the limited amount of written records concerning these people, very little is known about their lives and activities. The first recorded journey through the area is that of Louis Joliet and Father Marquette in the late 1660s. They passed through the area on their way west, and Father Marquette later returned to found a mission near what is now Starved Rock. Rene-Robert Cavelier Sieur de LaSalle, for whom the city is named, began his exploration of the area in 1678. After traveling the Mississippi River, he and Henri di Tonty built Fort Saint Louis at Starved Rock. He continued to travel, building forts, until his murder in January 1687.

Development of the Illinois Valley After Illinois declared statehood on Dec. 3, 1818, it was only a matter of time before settlers began moving into the Illinois Valley. LaSalle County was established on Jan. 15, 1831. One of the most well-known first settlers of the area was Aaron Gunn. He eventually purchased the tract of land that is now located just north of 11th Street, between Chartres and Bucklin streets. Other settlers included Samuel Lapsley and Burton Ayers. Lapsley built a log cabin between Fourth and Fifth Streets, south of the present location of LaSalle-Peru Township High School in 1830.

LaSalle by the numbers • Population: 9,700 • Male residents: 4,716 • Female residents: 4,744 • 2,427 families • Median age of residents: 39.86 years • Median income for a household: $37,792 • Median income for a family: $55,694 • Square miles of land: 6.35 Source: 2010 Census.

Illinois Valley Living

18 LaSalle Page Additionally, he constructed a saw mill that was located in the Little Vermillion, just below the Matthiessen and Hegeler Zinc Co., or the M&H property. Ayers owned a log cabin and shop where he made plows on the corner of Sixth and Union streets. As the dream of constructing a canal from this area up to Chicago became reality, the need to create towns along its banks grew. Consequently, the town of LaSalle was platted in 1838. At this time, many purchasers of the lots were canal workers or shopkeepers hoping to sell supplies to the workers. The canal was officially opened on April 16, 1848. Four days later, the “General Thornton” became the first boat to travel the canal.

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19 LaSalle Page Construction of the Illinois & Michigan Canal led to an increase in population of the LaSalle area. Between the years of 1843 and 1848, the population had grown from almost 100 to 200 people. In 1851, residents of the area began to see a need for an organized government. A board of trustees, which included Edward D. David, John Allen, Francis LaBeau, Nicholas Duncan and William Whaley was created. One year later, on Aug. 4, 1852, the city of LaSalle was officially established as a city. Official positions were created which included the elected and appointed officials of mayor, aldermen, clerk, city attorney, assessor, collector, treasurer, marshal, engineer, weighmaster and street supervisor. By 1869, the official boundaries of the city had been established. The boundaries remained unchanged for several years until 1923 when the city annexed a large area of land. The land near the present location of Northwest School was annexed in 1962. The city continued to annex land, with 61 annexations between 1963 and 1989. In 1999, the city greatly increased its acreage with 71 annexations. Source: City of LaSalle History Book/website. LaSalle officials The city council is comprised of the mayor and eight council members elected by ward. Two alderman represent each of the four wards. Following is a list of city officials: Mayor: Jeff Grove Aldermen: James “Diz” Demes, First Ward Jim Bacidore, First Ward Jerry Reynolds, Second Ward Tom Ptak, Second Ward John “Doc” Lavieri, Third Ward John Duncan Sr., Third Ward Mark Schneider, Fourth Ward T. “Boo” Herndon, Fourth Ward City treasurer: Virginia Kochanowski City clerk: Carrie Brown City attorney: James McPhedran City engineer: Brian Brown Finance director: John Duncan Jr. Building inspector: Chris Covert Superintendent of Public Works: Jeff Bumgarner Economic development director: Don Aleksy Source: City of LaSalle website.

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Lett-us eat healthy! A

eties that not only have more nutritional value, but they also have a more profound taste. While we’d need to use this entire magazine to list all the types of lettuces available, instead we’ve just decided to list a few of the more popular ones that can be easily found at your local grocery store.

s spring rolls into the Illinois Valley, many are deciding what they’ll plant in their vegetable gardens. Beans, tomatoes, cucumbers ... the list can be as long or as short as you desire, depending on how much energy you want to exert to growing your own fresh produce. Perhaps the one item most overlooked when it comes to that spring garden is something most of us eat every week ... lettuce. Whether it’s on a sandwich, in a salad, on top of a taco or used in a variety of other ways, lettuce is a constant in many of our lives. Not only is it low in calories, but its versatility makes it useful in many dishes. While iceberg lettuce is the most common lettuce, there are several other vari-

Iceberg Lettuce

Iceberg Lettuce is best known for its crisp and hardy demeanor. Even though it’s not as flavorful as other lettuces, it does have a long refrigerator life — unwashed and in a plastic bag, it can keep up to two weeks, which is twice as long as other varieties. When choosing a head of Iceberg, watch for firm and densely-packed heads that appear heavy. When

you serve it in a bowl for a typical salad with other veggies or cut it into wedges and serve it with blue cheese dressing and crisp bacon along with your steak, Iceberg Lettuce won’t disappoint the typical salad eater.

Butterhead - Boston

This variety of lettuce is known for its small and round heads that are loosely formed. The actual lettuce leaves are soft and supple, but one should be careful because the leaves will bruise easily. Boston lettuce is a cousin to Bibb Lettuce; Boston has the larger and fluffier leaves. Both are perfect to use as a “bowl” for meat and seafood dishes. Many times these Boston leaves are used as a wrap.

Story by Terri Simon | Photos by Dave Cook

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Illinois Valley Living

Butterhead - Bibb Bibb Lettuce is similar to Boston, however, it is considerably smaller. Loosely formed with the same supple leaves, Bibb is considered the sweet and small fellow in the lettuce patch. A typical head of Bibb is the size of your fist. Get ready to get out your wallet for a good head of Bibb because as lettuce goes it is expensive — about twice the price of Iceberg.

Green Leaf Lettuce Green Leaf Lettuce heads home with you on a single stalk, which makes it more perishable than a typical head of lettuce. You’ll see this lettuce in many bagged lettuce mixes on your grocery store refrigerated shelf. It’s a very tender variety. To keep it at its peak, don’t dress your Green Leaf Lettuce until you’re ready to serve it.

Red Leaf Lettuce Red Leaf Lettuce is similar to the Green Leaf Lettuce variety, also grown on a single stalk, rather than a head. Like its cousin the Green Leaf variety, it is often found in bagged lettuce and is enjoyed for its tenderness. Again, to keep Red Leaf Lettuce as crisp as possible, you’ll want to wait to add your dressing until you are ready to serve it.

Oak Leaf Lettuce Like Red Leaf and Green Leaf varieties, Oak Leaf Lettuce comes on a single stalk. Oak Leaf has a spicier and nuttier flavor than Green and Red Leaf lettuces. Again, dress this lettuce just before serving.

Romaine Lettuce Romaine Lettuce has long, sturdy leaves. While the leaves can be a tad bitter, the center ribs are usually sweet. Romaine is known for its crunch. Some grocery stores sell hearts of Romaine which omits the more bitter outer leaves, but they come with a heftier price tag. In the sum-

mer, Romaine is the perfect lettuce to cut in half, brush with olive oil and grill until lightly browned to go with your other on-the-grill menu items.

Arugula

Arugula has a strong peppery flavor. Its leaves are dark green, long and spiked. Arugula can be found wild and has the strongest flavor. Cultivated arugula is available in most stores and at farmers’ markets, and the flavor and strength of the arugula varies greatly. Arugula served by itself can stand up to very tangy dressings and bolder flavors. To lessen the strong flavor, it can be paired with other lettuces. Source: www.goodhousekeeping.com.

Lett-us try something new There is so much more to lettuce than a simple salad. Try something new tonight, featuring your favorite lettuce, and you might be surprised by your family’s reaction ...

Caesar Salad Supreme

6 cloves garlic, peeled 3/4 cup mayonnaise 5 anchovy fillets, minced 6 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, divided 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon lemon juice Salt to taste Black pepper to taste 1/4 cup olive oil 4 cups day-old bread, cubed 1 head Romaine lettuce, torn into bite-size pieces Mince 3 cloves of garlic, and combine in a small bowl with mayonnaise, anchovies, 2 tablespoons of the Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, mustard and lemon juice. Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Refrigerate until ready to use. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cut the remaining 3 cloves of garlic into quarters, and add to hot oil. Cook and stir until brown, and then remove garlic from pan. Add bread cubes to the hot oil. Cook, turning frequently, until lightly browned. Remove bread cubes from oil, and season with salt and pepper. Place lettuce in a large bowl. Toss with dressing, remaining Parmesan cheese and seasoned bread cubes.

Illinois Valley Living

Betty Fisher

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Asian Lettuce Wraps 16 Boston Bibb or butter lettuce leaves 1 pound lean ground beef 1 tablespoon cooking oil 1 large onion, chopped 1/4 cup hoisin sauce 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar 2 teaspoons minced pickled ginger 1 dash Asian chile pepper sauce, or to taste (optional) 1 8-ounce can water chestnuts, drained and finely chopped 1 bunch green onions, chopped 2 teaspoons Asian (dark) sesame oil Rinse whole lettuce leaves and pat dry, being careful not tear them. Set aside. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir beef and cooking oil in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes. Drain and discard grease; transfer beef to a bowl. Cook and stir onion in the same skillet used for beef until slightly tender, 5 to 10 minutes. Stir hoisin sauce, garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, ginger, and chile pepper sauce into onions. Add water chestnuts, green onions, sesame oil and cooked beef; cook and stir until the onions just begin to wilt, about 2 minutes. Arrange lettuce leaves around the outer edge of a large serving platter and pile meat mixture in the center.

Turkey, Pear and Cheese Salad

1 pound turkey tenderloin Salt and ground black pepper 1 tablespoon honey mustard 1/4 cup olive oil 2 pears, cored (optional) and sliced 4 slices provolone cheese, halved 5 ounces arugula (8 cups) 2 tablespoons cider vinegar Bias-slice turkey crosswise in eight, 1-inch slices. Flatten slightly with palm of hand, then season with salt and pepper. Brush with half of the honey mustard. In a 12-inch skillet heat 2 tablespoons of the oil over medium-high heat. Cook turkey in even layer in hot oil for 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until browned. Layer pears on turkey; top each with a half-slice of cheese. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until cheese is melted and pears are warm. Divide arugula among serving dishes; top with turkey slices. For sauce, whisk remaining mustard and oil along with the vinegar into pan juices in skillet; cook for 30 seconds. Drizzle sauce on each serving. Sprinkle with additional pepper.

Apple, Walnut Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette

1/2 cup chopped walnuts 1/4 cup cranberries 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 1 cup red onion, chopped 1 tablespoon white sugar 1 tablespoon Dijon-style prepared mustard 1 cup vegetable oil Salt and pepper to taste 10 cups mixed salad greens, rinsed and dried 2 Red Delicious apples, cored and thinly sliced Tyson Crispy Chicken Strips Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spread the walnuts out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until lightly toasted. In a food processor, combine the cranberries, vinegar, onion,

sugar and mustard. Puree until smooth; gradually add oil, and season with salt and pepper. In a salad bowl, toss together the greens, apples, and enough of the cranberry mixture to coat. Sprinkle with walnuts and serve.

Crispy Turkey Cobb Salad

2 egg whites 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese 1 cup cornflake crumbs 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 pound thin-sliced turkey cutlets 3/4 cup bottled blue cheese salad dressing 2 tablespoons cider vinegar 2 packages (8 ounces each) mixed salad (16 cups) 3 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled 1 14.5-ounce can sliced beets, drained and cut into strips 3 hard-cooked eggs, shelled and sliced 1 cup croutons Heat oven to 450 degrees. In a shallow dish, whisk whites and mustard. In second dish, combine cheese, cornflake crumbs, salt and pepper. Coat cutlets with egg white mixture, then cheese mixture. Coat a large baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Transfer cutlets to prepared pan; spritz cutlets with nonstick cooking spray. Bake cutlets at 450 degrees for 5 minutes. Flip over; bake an additional 5 minutes. Whisk dressing and vinegar until blended. In a large salad bowl, toss lettuce, 1/2 cup of the dressing and bacon until well coated. To serve, slice cutlets into thin strips. Divide salad, beets, turkey, eggs and croutons among bowls. Drizzle with extra dressing.

Illinois Valley Living

Just a little Sassy ... Column by Carol Keller and Beth Rosene Photos by Dave Cook

o you wonder why sometimes you put on an outfit and you just love it and other times you keep wondering why an outfit doesn’t look good? We thought you did! We are going to make dressing for your body type as easy as A-B-C-D. To begin, we will start out each body type description with a few clues to help you decide which category you fit in. If you are a Body Type A – “Adorable” – chances are you ... • Gain weight around the middle. • Have a fuller waist. • Thinner legs (not fair). • Not much behind you. If you fit in this category, here are some style guidelines…. • Choose a blousy top or tunic, and make sure it covers the fullest part. • Flat front pants with slimmer legs are great for you – (Slimsations or Paniz are perfect to show off your legs!).

Let our experience help you.

Carol Keller (left) and Beth Rosene

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Convenient Care Vs. Emergency Care The Right Choice Makes a Difference

When to Use CONVENIENT CARE?

What is Considered an EMERGENCY?

Convenient Care offers patients health care for minor, non-emergent injuries and illnesses. Some of the benefits that come with Convenient Care include:

When you need immediate medical treatment for serious illnesses and injuries, CALL 911. Symptoms that require Emergency Care include:

• Appointment-Free • Economical • Short Wait Times • Convenient Hours • Access to Basic Laboratory Testing and X-Rays

Conditions Treated at Convenient Care: • Allergies • Athlete’s Foot and Ring Worm • Bladder Infections • Bug Bites • Cold Sores • Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) • Coughs and Congestion (Cold Symptoms) • Diarrhea • Earaches • Fever • Minor Cuts (That May Need a Few Stitches) • Minor Injuries • Mild Vomiting/Flu Symptoms • Physicals • Rashes (Poison Ivy, etc.) • Sinus Infections • Sore Throat (Strep Testing Available) • And More

Note: If greater care is needed, our staff will direct patients to the appropriate healthcare provider. In a true emergency, we will transfer patients directly to the ER.

Symptoms of a Heart Attack: • Chest Discomfort • Discomfort in Other Areas of the Upper Body (Such as in One or Both Arms, the Back, Neck, Jaw, or Stomach) • Shortness of Breath • Other Signs May Include Breaking Out in a Cold Sweat, Nausea, or Lightheadedness

Symptoms of a Stroke: • Drooping or Numbness of One Side of the Face • Weakness in One Arm • Speech Difficulty or Slurred Speech

Other Urgent Symptoms:

• Severe/Sudden Onset of Headache

• Severe Abdominal Pain • Difficulty Walking • Head, Neck, or Back Injury • Fracture • Deep or Large Wound • Large Burn • Poisoning • Pregnancy-Related Problem • Convulsions or Seizure • Coughing Up or Vomiting Blood • Sudden or Unexplained Loss or Altered State of Consciousness • High Fever with Stiff Neck, Mental Confusion, or Difficulty Breathing • Infants Under 8 Weeks with a Fever

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Phase 2 will now bring about the renovation of the existing ER. It will feature a new and much larger waiting room for patients and families, a Results Pending Area and a Family Consultation Room. Phase 2 will also include the construction of a new egress corridor that will route hospital traffic around the ER proper, greatly improving patient privacy.

Our Goal: • • • •

Reduce ER Wait Times Provide Greater Privacy Enhance Family Access Improve Safety, Efficiency, & Equipment

Emergencies Happen. We’re Here for You When They Do.

“At some point, nearly everyone needs access to emergency care, so the goal of this project is to improve the overall ER experience. We are excited about what this project will provide to our patients and the communities we serve.” –Tim Muntz, St. Margaret’s President and CEO

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Illinois Valley Living

aboutsmh.org 25

26 • Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize! – Especially a nice statement piece of jewelry at your neckline. • Never tuck in your tops. • A shirt or jacket looks best if it falls below your waist. • If you are wearing a shirt, pants and jacket, match the two inside pieces or keep them close in value – it will make you look slimmer – Yahoo! When helping women in our store, we always advise them to be “True To Themselves.” You know your style, and if you do not feel comfortable wearing it, we don’t want you to purchase something that will just hang in your closet. However, many times we will suggest something a little outside of “your box,” and often our customers find they really like it! We hope you have enjoyed our Fashion School 101. Stay tuned for more great tips. Carol and Beth Sassy Sisters, Princeton Carol and Beth have owned Sassy Sisters for four years. They both have degrees in clothing, textiles and design and enjoy helping women find their fashion niche!

M.R. Holmbeck, D.V.M. B.R. Sondgeroth, D.V.M. C.M. Schelkopf, D.V.M.

Left: Sassy Sisters is the place to visit for friendly and helpful fashion consultations which will help you look your best. Below: No matter what your body type, Sassy Sisters will help you find the right additions to your wardrobe.

A.M. Adams, D.V.M. K.A. Reed, D.V.M.

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Illinois Valley Living

FADING HISTORY MAGNOLIA TOWNSHIP PRESERVATION ASSOCIATION WORKS TO PROTECT THE PAST Story and photos by Dave Cook

s time has advanced, it has slowly chipped away at the small township of Magnolia. Peggy Smith, a library clerk in Magnolia for almost 30 years, has been working to archive its history before it disappears. After hosting a library program two years ago celebrating village his-

tory, Smith realized that very history was in danger of disappearing. “The program turned out so well. People started giving me pictures, articles and so many other things I couldn’t house them all in the library. We rented an office space, and I had an open house earlier this year during Magnolia Days and had a great response. I started

getting a group together, and we formed a nine-member board, made a constitution, by-laws and did all the other things we needed if we were going to go through with a preservation association. I’ve had a lot of positive feedback from the community. It’s an opportunity to preserve the history of Magnolia,” said Smith.

A 105-year-old atlas of Marshall and Putnam counties on display at the new Magnolia Township Preservation Association’s Museum. The association is seeking artifacts from the township’s past. Families still in or with ties to the area are encouraged to loan or donate their items to help preserve local history.

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Illinois Valley Living

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28 Originally settled in the 1830s, it was the arrival of the completed railroad extension in 1901 which began the most prosperous time in Magnolia’s history. During the time of the railroad, Magnolia had regular train routes, a bank, doctors, sawmill, photographer, butcher, blacksmith, theater, grain elevator, barber, insurance agent, restaurants, ice house, brick yard, grocery store, hardware store and many other things. “We had so much. I’ve always heard stories, and it’s always fascinated me that people remember these things and the people so well, including my grandfather who died before I was born. This is how I’ve gotten to know him, through stories from everyone else. If I didn’t have that, I wouldn’t know him like I do today. It’s made it personal. So often we don’t appreciate history until we’re older,” said Smith. By 1937 however, the railroad had vanished and Magnolia’s prosperity had begun to evaporate. As businesses slowly closed or moved, along with much of its population, those items, which are now helping those in the present chronicle history, began to collect dust in area attics or forgotten boxes and photo albums.

A display case of small promotional items from some of the many businesses which used to call Magnolia home. When the railroad left Magnolia, it signaled the beginning of the end for Magnolia’s most prosperous days.

Curator Peggy Smith displays a musket made in 1860 by a gunsmith at Magnolia’s blacksmith’s shop. The preservation association is collecting historical artifacts from the area to place on display in their new museum in what was Magnolia’s Masonic Hall. 28

Illinois Valley Living

29 The Magnolia Township Preservation Association has since been able to purchase the Masonic Lodge through donations from a small group of local residents. The plans are to house the many artifacts in a museum on the upper floor and to use the lower level, equipped with a full kitchen, as a community hall and area to hold programs. Some construction is underway to repair and update different areas in the building, and there is a need to make the building ADA compliant. “Everyone in the area has been so generous in helping with this project, but there is still so much work to do. We are in need of ways to help us properly display the collection, money for construction and materials, and people who can donate their time. And of course, we’re always looking for more local history items to share with people,” said Smith. For more information or to become a friend of the association, call curator Peggy Smith at 815-257-0707 or visit the association’s Facebook page.

A photo of the celebration held in Magnolia for those returning from World War I. The new Magnolia Township Preservation Society is seeking not only historical items, but also new members for the association and those who can help donate money, time and labor in order to preserve the area’s rich local history.

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30 Eagles

Hey Baldy... Look this way

BALD EAGLES ARE A PHOTOGRAPHER’S DREAM Story by Terri Simon | Photos by Mike Vaughn

hey are majestic. They proudly soar through the air. You can’t mistake them for another bird. They are our national symbol — an eagle, the only eagle unique to North America. Bald eagles are found throughout most of North America, from Alaska and Canada to northern Mexico. About half of the world’s 70,000 bald eagles live in Alaska. Eagles are a member of the Accipitridae family, which also includes hawks, kites and old-world vultures. Both male and female adult bald eagles have a blackish-brown back and breast; a white head, neck, and tail; yellow feet, legs and beak; and pale yellow eyes. The bald eagle was nearly wiped out in the United States because for many years, the bird was hunted for sport and to protect coveted fishing grounds. Pesticides like DDT also presented a problem for eagles, since the chemicals collect in fish, which is the eagle’s primary diet. Those chemicals would weaken the eagle’s egg shells, severely limiting their ability to reproduce. Once DDT became restricted in 1972, the eagles numbers have rebounded greatly and are no longer on the endangered list.

Illinois Valley Living

31 Eagles

These birds of prey use their powerful talons to fish, but they get a good share of their meals by stealing from other animals, as well. They nearly always live near water where the fish are plentiful. Bald eagles are believed to mate for life. A pair constructs a huge nest made of sticks high above the ground. Immature eagles are dark for their first 5 years, and then the distinctive white markings appear. Whether they are roosting, soaring or fishing, the bald eagle is a photographerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream, as demonstrated in these photographs.

Illinois Valley Living

Cody Grandadam, president of Promier Products, stands inside the Westclox Museum that is part of Promier Plaza, the former Westclox factory.

Time is on their side at former factory PROMIER PLAZA TRANSFORMS WESTCLOX BUILDING Story and photos by Lyle Ganther

he owners of Promier Plaza in Peru feel the former Westclox Building is like the “Field of Dreams.” “We feel if we build it, they will come and make this building’s inside impressive again,”said Cody Grandadam, president of Promier Products. Promier Products is a LED flashlight company that sells to more than 30,000 locations worldwide. Grandadam was out of a job, and he started this business about five years ago with the assistance of his neighbor, Mike Turczyn of Hennepin.

Mike and his brother, Tim, own and operate S & S Tool & Die, T & T Hydraulics and Service Pros Heating and Cooling out of this 260,000-square-foot building that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Grandadam at first was given free space in the building and a secretary for Promier Products, which now employs 14-16 people. “We were the largest tenant leasing space from the owners,” said Grandadam. “About two years ago in July 2014, we decided to purchase the building and do our own investments.”

Promier Plaza has split up the building into three complexes: 150,000 square feet for industrial uses; 80,000 square feet for the enrichment center called Suite 408; and 30,000 square feet for offices. “We currently have 24 tenants (in Suite 408), which changes continually,” he said. “We have grown organically with no advertising. People come to us.” The enrichment center portion of the plaza sees 400-500 people (some adults) a day in music lessons, painting classes, and other extracurricular activities. Grandadam’s two children, Hayden and Carter, take piano lessons at Suite 408.

Illinois Valley Living

33 A Westclox museum is located inside the heart of the building filled with items. It is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Most of the items located inside the museum are donated by local people in the community. The building was first opened in 1884. The number of people employed there increased from 81 in 1891 to 4,000 by 1948. About 200 million time pieces were manufactured there during its nearly 100 years in production. It was closed in 1980. The first and second floors of the tower portion of the building are occupied by offices and tenants. The third and fourth floors are available for other uses. The owners would like to use the former cafeteria area and restore it to a place where people can come and have large meetings or receptions. The new owners have kept the original wood flooring throughout the building. The owners also installed 350,000 LED Christmas lights to light up the building’s exterior last year, which many people thought was very attractive at night. Necessary upgrades like new roofs and electrical work on the building were first done. Grandadam said people can come to see what renovation work has been done inside the building because people driving by don’t have any idea what has been done to the interior. “We want to spend our money most effectively, so we went to the city of Peru to find out if we can get some assistance through its facade program to make the building’s exterior more attractive as well,” added Grandadam. “We would like to restore the decorative fence, install windows and improve the building’s exterior as long-range goals.” Grandadam reports there is around 100,000 square feet of usable space available at Promier Plaza. He can be reached at 815-223-3393.

Arica DeArcos of Chain Link and Gemstone Studio solders a pendant in Promier Plaza’s Studio 408.

Camry Windy is a wedding and high school senior photographer at McConville Studio located inside Promier Plaza, the former Westclox building.

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Life’s Sweeter Side owner Abby Zukowski finds no greater joy than giving her clients an arrangement of stylish and handcrafted desserts they won’t soon forget.

Life’s sweetest treat PERU BUSINESS OFFERS ONE-OF-A-KIND SPECIAL EVENT DELICACIES Story by Eric Engel | Photos contributed

bby Zukowski was working at a horse farm in Kentucky when her twin sister, Emmy, told her she was getting married. Emmy wanted to compliment one of the greatest days of her life with a decadent candy table, but everyone who could sugarcoat her celebration was booked. Blessed with a heart sweet as caramel ... Abby put a dessert table together for her sister, and Life’s Sweeter Side was born. “Emmy’s wedding was the first one I actually did a table for, and the light bulb came on, so I decided to start a business,” Zukowski said. Beginning in 2012, Zukowski attended bridal expos and other events to get her business of luxury dessert tables out into the public

eye. She said her team of bakers contract independently and are certified to let their creative juices flow like a chocolate river in Willy Wonka’s candy castle. Zukowski and her colleagues, Jeremy Grubich and Anna Apelt, design the table set-ups for hours on end, getting every granule of

sugar in the right place for each event. “We started in the Illinois Valley, and the first year was the hardest,” Zukowski said, laughing at the age-old adage that everyone wants something new, but only if it’s safe to try. “We spent a lot on advertising to get our name out there and attain the proper licensing for the state of Illinois.” By Year 2, Life’s Sweeter Side followed the sugar crumbs up to Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, finding a different and unique market and expanding. Of recent, the phone hasn’t stopped ringing, and Zukowski needs to hire someone just to respond to email requests for business. She said they need two weeks at the very minimum to set up an event, and they respond joyfully to parties ranging anywhere from 20 to 1,200 people.

Illinois Valley Living

35 “We’ll get a lot of phone calls and emails for weddings and rehearsal dinners, and we love traveling all over the place, although we’d ideally like to do business here all the time,” Zukowski said, adding her enterprise is always evolving and the challenge of 16-hour days and keeping every plate of sugar plums stocked and stacked is what makes the job fun. “If you don’t have time to go shopping, call us, and we’re that full service business that just does it all.” Everything placed on the tables is edible, with themes ranging from Star Wars to Saturday Night Fever — essentially anything the client’s imagination can create. A chocolatier will hand paint everything, and the belle of the ball can take her crown off and nibble on the royal jewels if she so pleases. Backdrops, lighting and flowers only aim to spice up the sweet sensations, and Zukowski said sometimes individuals are timid to take the first treat, but never the last. “We tailor the desserts to whatever the wedding is, and if you see it, you can eat it,” she added, noting a recent award for “best overall presentation” at Chicago’s Union Station reiterated the impact Life’s Sweeter Side can have at a special event. “For me, desserts have become art — edible creations — and it’s luxury desserts because it’s quality over quantity.”

Anna Apelt (from left), Jeremy “the Singing Cupcake” Grubich and Life’s Sweeter Side owner Abby Zukowski take great strides to compliment celebrations and festivities with luxury dessert tables unique as they are delicious. IVL photo/Eric Engel

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www.ivcc.edu 35

36 Desserts are not the only thing Life’s Sweeter Side adds to each experience, as Grubich is proudly known as America’s only “Singing Cupcake.” Grubich was involved in a pretty severe car accident in high school, which partially affected his memory and other motor functions, so he uses a colorful cupcake outfit to sprinkle jubilation on each scene he encounters, adding the proper ingredients to his own mixing bowl in the process. “No matter where I go, the No. 1 thing I want is for you to smile before I leave,” Grubich said, with Zukowski adding something catastrophic doesn’t have to end your passion for life or your ability to inspire others. “I could sit at home, but I’m going to turn this into something happy and joyful.” Apelt came over from Hamburg, Germany, to stay with her aunt in Marseilles while learning the language and seeing the sights. She was introduced to Zukowski and a great taste of American business.

“I want to become an event manager, so this is a perfect internship to better understand things I’d never experience otherwise,” said Apelt, who offers European flair and a radiant personality to every event. Zukowski heard early on from a few sour apples that such an idea would never work in this area, but she said if you listen to people who are intent on complaining, you’ll never be able to hear the harmony of your dreams. She carries her head high

even when an idea crumbles because she never stops building the cake or sampling the frosting. “Our work has to taste better than it looks, even if it looks amazing,” she said, adding all creations must have a personal flavor for those with taste. “It’s great to show people we’re from the Illinois Valley because they notice the work and humility we put into it, and that’s the greatest compliment.” The upcoming ideas and opportunities for Life’s Sweeter Side are endless, yet the goal will never be to get rich, but to offer up the richest experiences in others. If you do what you love — and run around with a cupcake — you will assuredly find your peace. “When I moved back to Illinois, I knew I could do this and be happy,” Zukowski said. “You have to do good and help others while you are here, or you are wasting your gifts.”

Illinois Valley Living

37 Wyanet Page

Wyanet WELCOME TO A SMALL BUT FRIENDLY BUREAU COUNTY COMMUNITY

yanet is a small community located on Routes 6 and 34 in North Central Illinois. The village is surrounded by history and family attractions. Wyanet’s history dating back to 1821, was officially plated in 1854 and incorporated in 1857. The community has had several names since its beginning. In 1821, the settlement was first called “Center,” named by Bulbona, an Indian trader. In 1837, the village officially started to sprout its roots due to the area known as “Pond Creek.” It was named for the creek at the south edge of town where Ellis Mercer built a saw mill and Amos Leonard built the first flour mill. The first railroad, the Chicago Rock Island & Pacific was built there in 1853. At this time, the name was changed to “Kingston” in honor of the land donors, Henry and Mary King. The Chicago, Burlington, Quincy Railroad gave the village its current name, Wyanet, when they completed their rail line in 1855. Wyanet’s history is full of exciting events. History buffs are encouraged to visit and learn more. Wyanet is a community strongly supported by citizen involvement. It is a neighbor helping neighbor atmosphere. The local VFW holds a delicious chicken fry on the second Saturday of each month (with the exceptions of July and December). Each July, during its second weekend, the community comes together to celebrate the Wyanet Summer Festival. Festivities, sponsored by the Wyanet Community Club, begin Thursday and carry on through Saturday evening with beer gardens, a carnival and community food stands available daily. A 5K run, a queen contest for young ladies and a village parade are highlights of the weekend.

Wyanet by the numbers • Population: 1,000 • Percent of population who are ages 18 to 64: 61.55 percent • Percent who are 65 and older: 14.33 percent Source: 2010 Census.

Illinois Valley Living

38 Wyanet Page The biggest attraction for Wyanet is the Hennepin Canal Lock 19. The lock is a part of the Grand Illinois Trail. Local residents and visitors can enjoy fishing, canoeing, boating, hiking, bicycling, horseback riding and picnicking within walking distance from the village. Just west of town, camping is available near the historic lift bridge. This site does have an area available for campers with horses. To the east of town you can see the aqueduct which allows the canal to pass over Little Bureau Creek. Two miles south of the village was a stagecoach stop for travelers on the Galena Trail and Coach Road. Three miles north is a monument dedicated to the home of one of the first white settlers in Bureau County, Henry Thomas. Fort Thomas was located to the east of this monument on Little Bureau Creek. The fort was built during the Black Hawk War. The Henry Thomas Museum in Wyanet on North King Street is open on weekends throughout the summer and by appointment at any time during the year. The museum is packed with not only personal items from the Thomas family but local history as well. The Wyanet Historical Society also maintains its own museum on South Maple Street. The village is a prime area for train enthusiasts to come and photograph passing trains. Outside of town to the west was once the location of a historic three story train station. This is the spot where the Burlington Railroad passed over and above the Rock Island Railroad. Just to the east, behind the Forest Hill Cemetery, is the high trestle bridge where the Burlington Northern Railroad passes over Little Bureau Creek. The Forest Hill Cemetery was platted in 1885 and has a cannon honoring Civil War veterans. The town is very fortunate to have a wonderful and modern library, The R.A. Sapp Memorial Library. Visitors can enjoy Memorial Park located in the heart of town. A picnic area is there along with a playground for children and a horseshoe pit for the adults. During the summer, you might be able to catch a ball game at the ball park supported by the Wyanet Youth Baseball Organization. Source: www.wyanetil.com.

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Who’s who in Wyanet The Wyanet Village Board is comprised of a village president and six board members. Village President: Bruce Hand Board of Trustees: Dave Bickett, Marilyn Johnson, Joe Law, Jim Etheridge, Jeramie Spears and Cory Peterson Police Chief: Todd Marquez Village Treasurer: Thelma Beall Village Clerk/Office Manager: Shelly Teske Village Employees: Brandon Teske and Justin Smith Source: The village of Wyanet website.

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39 Wyanet Page

Famous faces from Wyanet Darwin Teilhet, born in Wyanet, (May 20, 1904 – April 18, 1964) was an American mystery novelist, as well as a movie screenwriter and consultant. He published novels under his name, as well as with pseudonyms, including Cyrus Fisher. His juvenile fiction book, “The Avion My Uncle Flew,” was a Newbery Honor recipient. Jean (Peterson) Fox, born in Princeton on Nov. 21, 1933, and graduated from Wyanet High School in 1951, played for the Rockford Peaches of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. The AAGPBL was featured in the 1992 movie, “A League of Their Own.” It was created by Chicago Cubs owner Phillip K. Wrigley during World War II when many of the Major League stars went off to the service.

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An introduction to first aid MAGNOLIA LIBRARY HOSTS PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN Story and photo by Dave Cook

o one knows when, where or how a person will find themselves involved in an emergency. When those situations arise, it’s important for those present, even children, to have knowledge of first aid. Magnolia Library recently held the first in a series of programs designed to help children — should they find themselves in a crisis. Held on Tuesday, Feb. 16, and presented by Justin Larson of the American Red Cross, the program “First Aid for Little People” (FALP) provided an introduction to basic first-aid concepts for children, kindergarten through fifth grade. This included how to get help, how to stay calm in an emergency, fire safety, controlling bleeding, and what to do if someone is choking. “Even for smaller children it’s important to get this knowledge out there. They may not remember it all, but you never know which piece of information will stick and possibly aid them in an emergency. It’s a good way to provide an introduction to safety and of what to do during those critical times,” said Magnolia library clerk Peggy Smith. It wasn’t all serious, however. As with any group of children who are called on for answers, there were the occasional and unintentionally funny moments. While technically correct and concerning serious situations, many still found themselves laughing at some of the answers provided. When Larson asked for an example of an emergency, the first answer of “When you’re on fire,” drew laughs, as did the answer of “a knife,” when the children were asked for an example of something you can choke on.

OPEN TO ALL

The next program in the series will be the “The Pillowcase Project.” This hourlong program will be held at the Magnolia Library at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 19. Intended for children in Grades 2 through 6, children will learn the importance of personal and family preparedness, potential local hazards and disasters, and basic

Justin Larson of the American Red Cross is demonstrating the proper steps of controlling a nose bleed to a group of kindergarten through fifth grade children, and library clerk Peggy Smith. This program, First Aid for Little People (FALP), was the first in a series of programs at the Magnolia Library which will teach emergency basics to young children.

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coping skills. Upon completion, those attending will receive a pillowcase in which to assemble their personal emergency supply kit. For more information, call the Magnolia Library at 815-869-3038. Comment on this story at www.putnamcountyrecord.com.

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A trail of tranquility PRINCETON COUPLE CREATED ART FROM NATURE AND ADMINISTERED LOVE TO THEIR SURROUNDINGS Story and photos by Eric Engel

Princeton artist Mary LaFrenz turns an old windowpane into a work of art in her garage on the south edge of town. Mary and her husband, Terry, find color in every aspect of their surroundings, and they have spent their days grasping the beauty of nature in order to offer nurturing handiwork to all they come across.

Illinois Valley Living

n a stroll down an old back country path, there are two routes from which to choose. An onlooker could see only the weeds and broken branches on the ground. They could hear the sound of pollution traveling by on the highway, and witness a dried riverbed littered with the debris of humanity. Conversely, one could find flowers sprouting throughout the foliage. They could welcome the animal kingdom as freely as a butterfly wanders the wind. They could get washed away in streams of living water, their only task developing a hand basket bountiful enough for the abundance of fruit overflowing. Nature can only truly be seen from one of these angles; Terry and Mary LaFrenz knew long ago which route to travel. The LaFrenz couple of Princeton have art flowing through their veins. They found each other long ago, after both experienced failed relationships in their younger days, and their faith in their maker is the “glue” that holds them together. They are gracious with the gifts they’ve been given, fully aware that what they have is not theirs, but simply a message to be delivered in light of the brightest colors. Mary took floral design for a few years in college, always venturing out into nature to find corn stalks, sticks and vegetation to use while designing her wreaths, woven baskets and other fixtures. Everything she created was made by hand through natural elements gathered from the earth, and she was blessed with the opportunity to sell her creations at various shows both out in public and close to home.

42 “People are drawn to nature, and if you’re kind, they’re drawn to you,” Mary said, recalling the excitement of her customers over such raw and authentic wilderness works of art. “People would come to shows in the rain; we’d sell out community centers by noon. We couldn’t make things fast enough because we were taking advantage of nature others wouldn’t.” The LaFrenz couple moved to Colorado in the mid-’90s, and Terry LaFrenz got into woodworking as a side project to his profession in convenient store development. He would make benches, stools, small tables — often times carving leaves or other forest insignia into the work, and Mary would paint on the products to add the finishing touches. Mary got into pottery, felting and painting on old windows and doors that Terry would grab from the side of the road or the city dump. They used their intrinsic talents to beautify everything they encountered, and handed out their offerings to the public with soulful encouragement and everlasting warmth, never wasting a moment of interaction or a single stem from the garden.

Prostate cancer slowed Terry down about 15 years ago, but it also enlightened the couple’s perspective on what really matters and reminded them to be thankful instead of wishful. Terry said once he overcame his initial denial concerning his condition, he was stronger in his marriage and his faith. “If you’re holding on to something so tight that God can’t do anything with it, you have to let it go,” Terry said, urging those trapped in any tunnel to constantly move toward the light. “He has you where He wants you.” Terry and Mary moved back to Princeton in 2007, and Mary said they are fulfilling their dream of doing shows together, inspired by many years among beautiful people and their stories. Kind as a baby’s smile and calm as the setting sun, the couple can be found in their garage, brushing paint onto windowpanes or shavings from a fresh stretch of wood. Their hearts can be found glancing upward. “There’s good in everything,” Mary said, gaining grace each time she extends an open hand. “People are drawn to us because we love them, and love attracts.”

Terry LaFrenz smooths out the surface of one of his hand-carved benches in the driveway of his Princeton residence. Terry and his wife Mary always look to give more than they receive to the people in their lives, yet are fully receptive to the everyday joy of existence. 42

Illinois Valley Living

One-on-one with Wyanet animal rescuer Heather Bishop RESCUE: 4 FEET AT A TIME Photos by Dave Cook

HEATHER BISHOP Town of residence: Wyanet. How long have you lived there: 15 years. Age: 40. Family: I have a very supportive husband, Nicklaus Bishop, and five kids: Brandon, 22; Stocking, 18; Sawyer, 10; Kaden, 9 and Kollin, 6. What organizations do you volunteer for: I am the CEO and founder of Bishop’s Small Dog Rescue, Inc. NFP. What activities do you do for the organization: Pretty much everything, I find small dogs in high kill animal controls or by phone contact from the general public that need a safe place and a new home, arrange for them to be removed from the animal control under the umbrella of

our care, and schedule them to see our super vets at Miller Veterinary Service. I take them to their vet appointments, post them online on sites such as Petfinder. com and adoptapet.com as well as our website, bishopssmalldogrescue.webs. com and Facebook to help seek out new homes. I accept and screen applications for their adoption, perform home visits as needed and arrange adoption appointments. I also schedule adoption events at places such as Tractor Supply in Princeton and PetSmart in Peru and other events throughout the year. In the past we’ve been at the Homestead, the Wyanet and the Hennepin festivals. I am also a foster home for the more needy rescues and those that come in ill or in need of long-term treatments before they

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are healthy enough for adoption. That is another huge part of this rescue and shelter, foster homes. I think that is the hardest and yet most important piece of our organization, finding and retaining great Heather Bishop foster homes for our adoptables to live in until their forever homes find them. How long have you served the organization: I founded Bishop’s Small Dog Rescue, Inc. NFP in May of 2012. I had been helping another person save dogs for about seven months prior to that.

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Illinois Valley Living

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44 Why is volunteering so important to society as a whole: Without volunteerism, especially those that speak and fight for those unable to speak and care for themselves, I don’t want to think about what our world would be. From the teachers that teach those with disabilities, to the volunteer EMTs and firemen in our area, can you imagine what life would be like without them? Every person counts. What do you enjoy about your community: Wyanet is a small, family-oriented town with a lot of great people that volunteer and make real effort to make our little town a great place to live and raise a family. The community club here goes above and beyond in making sure our kids and those in need are taken care of all year-round. You really can’t ask for much more. How would you encourage others to get involved in volunteering: My rescue is foster based, and thus myself and the rescue dogs completely depend upon our volunteer foster homes. Without them the rescue could not save as many lives as we do. I always encourage others in many ways to reach out and help when they can in whatever way they can. As we say in rescue, if you can’t adopt or donate, foster. If you can’t foster, share. You never know just who you may reach that is willing to help in any little way. It is all the little things that add up to make the big impact on our lives, society and world. Find something you are passionate about and share your knowledge and love of it. If you truly believe and are passionate others that are also will see and follow. How did you get involved in volunteering: I started at a young age, helping out while in junior high and high school, with younger students, projects throughout my school and college years, to being a Brownie Scout troop leader and now the rescue. I think I was just raised to help those that need help and to help educate others about the need for paying it forward. Why do you volunteer: Rescuing dogs is my passion. Never did I ever say “I think tomorrow I will start a dog rescue/shelter,” but I’m glad I did. Because of it I am a more outgoing, driven and passionate person. I feel I am teaching my children that we all

Heather Bishop cuddles two four-legged friends in her Wyanet home.

must give a little to make our world better, and that every person and every little bit that person does adds up; and all of it counts toward a better and brighter future for all of us, two-legged and four. What is the most heart-warming moment you’ve had as a volunteer: Wow, well, this one is really tough. I have so many heartwarming moments. Every dog that goes to its perfect forever home after being on death row is heartwarming. Honestly, I can not pick just one. What gaps do you see in you organization that need to be filled: We always need more foster homes for our adoptable dogs. The more foster homes we have, the more dogs we can save and give great lives to. We also would love to expand to a brick and mortar facility in the somewhat near future (next two years) to give the general public a place to visit our animals in one location and possibly offer dog training and an

indoor/outdoor dog park, as we don’t have any in our area. With that we also hope to offer spay/neuter, shot and micro-chipping clinics as another public outreach project that is also much needed in our area. As always is the case, being a 501(c)3 public charity we always are in need of funding to help with the care, vetting and growth of our organization. We are all public donation funded so we don’t have a lot of funds to do much more than take care of those in our care at any given time and thus we could really use a grant writer and more consistent donations. What would people be surprised to know about you: I am a very straight forward person, so I am not sure how to answer this one. What are your hobbies: I really enjoy spending time with my family, the adoptable dogs, and my personal dogs. I love to fish and enjoy camping also.

Bureau County

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Illinois Valley Living

Welcome to Waterfront Tavern By Dave Cook

or almost two years, a popular riverfront destination in Hennepin has been closed. However, Ray’s Place, a fixture of Hennepin for six decades, is now re-opening under new ownership and a new name, Waterfront Tavern. It’s sure to be a popular attraction this summer with boaters, bikers and anyone looking to enjoy Hennepin’s scenic view of the Illinois River. New owner Greg Waldorf, a Putnam County native, has made many changes, but he’s kept what made it popular, and he’s added or will be adding several changes which will only make it more appealing. Waldorf, along with his family, has been a part of the tavern/restaurant business for 38 years. His parents own Jim and Jane’s Tap in Peru. Jim and Jane’s is well known for their fried chicken, as was Ray’s Place, and Waldorf made an interesting discovery after the purchase of Ray’s. “It’s the same exact recipe as my grandpa’s (recipe). All the old Italians had the same wet batter recipe,” said Waldorf. The interior of Waterfront Tavern has

undergone some updates, but it’s maintained its classic, early ‘50s charm. The bar area is now a deep red, and the dining area which was salmon pink is now a distinguished gray, and Japanese screens have been placed in front of the full salad bar. Behind the scenes, the kitchen is undergoing a remodel. Traditional tavern-style dinners will be served on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights. “We’ll have a Bluegill platter, gizzards and livers, fried chicken, pastas and the salad bar,” Waldorf said. “I installed a television in the dining room, so if there’s a meeting being held they can do a Power Point presentation or whatever they need,” said Waldorf. There are also two new televisions above the bar. Waldorf has doubled his draft beer selection as well. Waldorf has plans for entertainment as well as food. Along with hosting live music, there will be a back room with five video gaming machines, a video golf game and dart boards. He has additional plans for a fenced rear patio with bags games, and a front patio with tables and chairs, so guests can relax outside and enjoy the weather and view of the river.

“We plan on catering to the boats and bikes crowd,” said Waldorf. Waldorf was quick to acknowledge all the help, support and encourageGreg Waldorf ment he’s received during the entire re-opening process. “My wife and sister-in-law did most of the painting, and Ken Lamchik of River Valley Chiropractic donated the art work and animal displays. Everyone in Hennepin and Putnam County has been fantastic and very supportive,” said Waldorf. The tavern is opening on Friday, Feb. 19, and the restaurant is expected to open within a couple of weeks. Until the restaurant portion is open, hours of operation will be 10 p.m. to midnight Monday through Thursday and 10 p.m to 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. For more information, call 815-925-3055.

erhaps you have a passion for those old porcelain coffee pots that you used to see on Grandma’s stove. Or maybe your collection of old tools, salt and pepper shakers or shot glasses has a prominent place in your home. Old furniture, sleds, watering cans, thimbles ... yesterday’s treasures are abundant in the Illinois Valley. Whether you take an hour here and there or dedicate an entire day to antique hunting, you’ll want to make time to visit one or all of the antique dealers listed below.

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46 IV 46 Living IV Journal Journal

Illinois Valley Living Journal

THE BLINK Column by Terri Simon Photo by Kath Clark

t’s been said things happen “in the blink of an eye.” I’ve used the phrase myself — actually quite a few times. My grandmother used to say it too ... It happened “in the blink of an eye.” I have no idea where that phrase came from, who first uttered those words or why they said them. For some reason, I think it’s Biblical, but I don’t know for sure ... and I don’t really know if I care. It doesn’t really matter, I guess. What is important, though, is the meaning behind those six words: “In the blink of an eye.” Fast, lightening speed, quicker than quick ... and every other word you can think of that describes something that happens in the length of time it takes to blink your eyes — an involuntary action which we really don’t control. But the other day, I was having a fairly intense conversation with a friend, and after saying, “It happened in the blink of an eye,” I found myself really thinking about that statement. The blink. Strange how that word hit me that day, and it’s even stranger how I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it. In the blink of an eye ... everything can change. Everything. In less than a second that it takes for you to literally blink your eyes, your world can flip upside down and get crazier than you’d ever imagine it could be. On the other side of that proverbial coin, good things can also happen in the blink of an eye, but for some reason, I associate that phrase with those circumstances that are less than wonderful. The blink.

Why it seems like just yesterday I was a carefree little girl. Blink! I am a rowdy teenager who thinks she can change a less-than-wonderful world. Filled with rebellion and a good dose of animosity, I went from a sweet, little girl to one with a chip on her shoulder. The blink. Tumultuous teenage years gave way to a young adult, who was attempting to find her way. Trials and errors — interspersed with a great deal of fun — abounded. The work place officially entered my world, and in the blink of an eye, I was an employee, instead of a carefree, opinionated teenager. Rent, electric bills and telephone bills entered the equation. The blink. A quick decision to move out of state, new friends and colleagues, new jobs, new living arrangements happened faster than fast, and responsibilities grew before I knew what had hit me. While there was a reckless kind of abandon through it all, the past left me in the blink of an eye, as I set my sights on new and very different horizons. The blink. Ten years later and upon returning back to Bureau County, I found a familiar yet very different world waiting for me. Had the world changed, or was it me? I didn’t know, and I had no time to ponder the scenario. Instead, I quickly jumped headfirst into the midst of it all — changed significantly by where I’d been and who I had become. The blink. And now ... many, many years later, I

find myself reflecting on where I started, where I went, where I am and who I became. It happened so quickly — in the blink of an eye, and I’m left saddened by the fast pace yet thankful for all I’ve experienced, both good and not-so-good for Terri Simon those experiences have made me — like it or not — who I am today. Where did the time go? It escaped me faster than a prisoner who has done his time and runs rapidly from his prison, shackles of life disappearing in the freedom. Seemingly in the blink of an eye, that sweet, little carefree girl turned into an adult who sees life as something much different than she ever expected ... yet ironically the same. The blink. Now I wake up in the morning, and I try to remember that life happens at a speed and a manner in which we really can’t control. Fate brings us and takes us where we are supposed to be, and all of it happens for a reason ... in the blink of an eye. Illinois Valley Living Editor Terri Simon is an Illinois Press Association award-winning columnist, writer and photographer. She can be reached at tsimon@bcrnews.com.

Illinois Valley Living

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Illinois Valley Living