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welcome
Letter from the executive editor This time of year always brings to mind one of the great Jackie Gleason’s trademark lines: “Let’s have a little traveling music.” Conditions generally will be perfect for an outdoor adventure, maybe a road trip on my Harley-Davidson motorcycle. There will be a huge gathering of Harley enthusiasts in Milwaukee this summer for the 110th anniversary of the motorcycle company. It’s a long trip on two wheels, but my wife, Debbie, and I made a similar trek 10 years ago when we lived in Mason City, Iowa. It was a one-way ride of more than 340 miles to the south-ofMilwaukee home of our friends, Mark and Joyce Onosko, where we spent four great nights. There were quicker routes to the Onosko home, but none shorter than the entirely two-lane, 55-mph route I carefully mapped. We planned to stop often, and did, which was essential for drinking water and staying hydrated in the heat. Packing for five days and four nights wasn’t as tough as you might imagine. Once I determined how much cash we’d need, I doubled it. That eliminated the need to carry food or beverages, which add too much weight and bulk to a motorcycle. We each wore the same jeans and footwear throughout the trip, which allowed just enough room to stuff plenty of T-shirts, underwear, socks, toiletries and leather jackets into two saddlebags and a bedroll bag atop the luggage carrier. It worked perfectly. We always bought what we ate and drank, other than the provisions generously supplied by Mark and Joyce. The daily 50-mile round trips to Milwaukee throughout the motorcycle rally were a piece of cake, and we had great biker company from our Rockton, Ill.. pals, Roger and Karen Olsen, who stayed with us in the Onosko home. Contact me if you’re planning such a trip. I’m not an expert, but we avoided disastrous mistakes and so can you. Plenty of adventures lie ahead in this issue of Life & Style. Twowheel adventures of another sort, those powered by human legs and bicycles, are explored in our cover story by frequent contributor Joe Szynkowski.
Provided
The road to adventure — on a motorcycle
Gary and Debbie Metro take a break from their great motorcycle adventure of 2003.
A more accessible destination than Milwaukee awaits travelers who cross into the Blue Grass State, destined for the big city on the southern banks of the Ohio River. You’ll learn a lot about Louisville and its many attractions in a lively piece from feature writer Adam Testa. Feel like getting a bird’s-eye view of our home region? Forget about needing a plane or helicopter if you want to really see what the birds do. What you really need is a zip line, and there’s a brandnew one in Makanda — Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour. The tour’s zip lines and tree platforms can be found on 83 wooded acres. That’s just a taste of what we’ve got inside this issue. Check out the good eats, our region’s wines and beers and stay up to date with the latest gadgets, gear and trends. Have a great summer! — Gary Metro
Elegant Outdoor Living!
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contents
42 Tour de Adventure
Summer 2013
32 Recreation
Some of the best cycling experiences await
56 Where We Live
Fly through the air with the greatest of ease
30 New feature: 15 Questions Get to know Lori Merrill Fink a little better
48 In Our Backyard
Classic Garden Ornaments creates special touches
50 Wine Country
Explore regional wines through a summer favorite
80 Good Eats Three barbecue enthusiasts share their wisdom
90 Out & About
Mermet Springs is your springboard to global diving
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Couple returns to a home on Lake of Egypt
62 Getaways
No matter how you say it, Louisville is tops
cover photo Our cover photo, shot by Lori Baysinger of Photography by Lori in Marion, is Jacie Sweitzer, also of Marion.
this issue Social Seen Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Miss This Style Work Spaces Apps Trends Profile Artists Tech
10 29 36 38 40 53 54 70 73
DĂŠcor Cheers to Beer Lens Envy Entrepreneurs Music Self Gadgets Scenic Beauty Parting Shot
76 78 82 84 87 88 92 94 96
correction In the Spring issue of Life & Style, Janice Staab was described as a psychologist. Staab is a philosophical counselor and life coach.
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contact us Life and Style in Southern Illinois 710 N. Illinois Ave., Carbondale, IL 62901 618-529-5454
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Life & Style : Summer 2013 9
social seen Wine & Cheese SoirĂŠe
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To show the progress made on its new tasting room, Alto Vineyards hosted a Feb. 16 gathering at the winery in Alto Pass, pairing its wine with Illinois cheeses. 1. Alex Nitto of Willmette, Kaley Wind of Sleepy Hollow and Kelly Tresin of Skokie 2. Jason and Megan Hunter of Carbondale
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3. Stephanie Rhodes of Alto Pass, Debbie Moore and Nicole Davis of Carbondale 4. Jim and Barbara Bush of Kite Hill Winery along with Paul Renzaglia (center) of Alto Vineyards 5. Kim and Tim Waller of Cobden 6. Paul, Betty and Katrina Renzaglia, Julie Harvey, Corey Peters, Matthew McGee, Misty Gamble and Leon Dangbar all of Alto Vineyards
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7. Chris Cone and Laura Hall of Carbondale 8. Jordan and Nicole Gregory of Sparta 9. Terry and Ginny Dietzel of Breese and Ron and Jackie Mave of Carlyle 10. Jan Korzenaskie of Marion and Kim Prater of Cobden 11. Pat and Rich Reynolds of Sheldon
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Rhonda M. May and J.C. Dart
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Sweethearts of the Saddle
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This Feb. 9 event was hosted by Specialized Equine Services and Therapeutic Riding and Giant City Stables to benefit the therapeutic riding program for physically and mentally disabled people. The gala took place at Walkerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bluff in Carterville. 1. Kim McKinney, SES executive director Ramona Twellman and Rick McKinney 2. Pastor Jason Forby with wife, Sarah of Goreville
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3. Dr. Cynthia Aks of Marion and Jason McKee of Elkville 4. Mario Moccia, master of ceremonies 5. Trent & Beth Mohlenbroch of Carbondale 6. Kayla and Emily Barnett 7. Honored guest Haley Willis and Sarah Forby 7
Provided by Vicki Colombo
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social seen Carbondale Chamber
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Members and guests of the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce got together at Carbondale Civic Center for the chamber’s annual dinner Feb. 8. 1. Amy Dion and Sean Henry of Carbondale 2. David and Beth Ponce of Carbondale 3. Rita and Tom Cheng, Jill and Bob Williams, all of Carbondale 4. Daniel and Dana Tippy of Carbondale 5. R. Scott and Lori Snavely of Carbondale
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6. John Warwick of Carbondale 7. Dr. John and Jan O’Keefe of Marion 8. Lindsey and Rick Kleinschmidt of Murphysboro 9. Christine and Les O’Dell of Carbondale, Mayor Joel Fritzler of Carbondale, Tracy Glenn of Marion and Karen Binder of Carbondale 10. Freida Hill of Carbondale and Reida Balor of Sikeston, Mo. 11. Heidi and Trace Brown, Zach and Amy Niemann, all of Carbondale
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12. Sue and Duane Stucky of Lake of Egypt 13. Shannon and Leah O’Hara of Carterville 14. Carolyn Snyder and Nancy Stemper of Carbondale 15. Robyn Russell of Du Quoin and Terri Harfst of Carterville 8
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Rhonda M. May and Cara Recine
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16. George Sheffer (center) with Jim and Lisa Salmo, all of Carbondale 17. Alesia Patterson, Todd Darnstaedt, Melissa Lewis and Marcia Sinnott, all of Carbondale 18. Anne Cooper Moore of Marion, Nancy and Julien Pei of Carbondale 19. Susan Watson of Carbondale and Taylor Baker of Makanda
23. Nik Skovgaard of Carterville, Sidney Stephens of West Frankfort and Steve Mason of Marion 24. Jacek and Erin Wiltowski of Carbondale
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25. Samantha Mizra and Sam Stokes of Carbondale 26. Estes Hood, Chris and Ronda Gaertner and Peter Gregory, all of Carbondale
20. Cinnamon Wheeles-Smith and Leah Stover of Carbondale
27. Kevin and Sandy Klaine and Bob and Lori Bleyer, all of Carbondale
21. Dr. Wayne and Anna Hawkins of Pinckneyville, Dr. Bryan Goldesberry and Christy Ogden of Carterville
28. Tessa and David Binversie of Carbondale
22. Matt Carnaghi of Metropolis, Jarred Lewis of Carbondale, Matt and Kailey Globe of Herrin
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29. Linda and Jerry Goforth of Carbondale 30. Darren Berger and Diane Hood of Carbondale
Life & Style : Summer 2013 13
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SIH Foundation Gala
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More than 650 people attended a Hope is Home Campaign Dinner Gala hosted by Southern Illinois Healthcare Foundation. All money will go toward building a new cancer center in Carterville. The event was April 12 at the SIU Student Center Ballrooms. 2. Dr. Sherry Jones, Gayle Klam and Dr. Marsha Ryan, all of Carbondale 3. Khaleelah Muta-Ali and Najjar Abdul-Musawwir of Carbondale 4. Jennifer Vinyard of Eldorado and Susan Reilmann of Lebanon 5. Shelley and Dan Hill of Carbondale
6. Bob Chambers and Cynthia Mills of Ava and Tony Johnson and Amanda Atchley of Elkville 7. John Massie, Amy Behrens and Ralph Behrens, all of Carterville 8. Alyson and Tom Wolz of Marion 9. Kim and Marta Ketter of Makanda 10. Terence and Maliea Farrell of Herrin and David and Tina Holland of Carterville
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Rhonda M. May and Cara Recine
1. Leah â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Lia Miraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Lerner of Herrin
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11. Phil and Marilyn Gilbert of Carbondale and Bob and Teresa Katubig of Marion
19. Amanda Bischel of Carterville and Alan Shackley of Carbondale
12. Charlie Leonard, Tom Connelley, Dr. Marci MooreConnelley and Kimberly Leonard, all of Carbondale
20. Diane Baine of Carbondale and Tracy Herron of Carterville
13. Jarrod and Mary Heltsley of Centralia and Jeff Baine of Carbondale
21. Amy Niemann of Murphysboro and Ann Bivens of Carbondale
14. Dr. Jagan and Uma Ailinani of Carbondale
22. Ukeme and Christina Umana of Carbondale
15. Tessie and Segun Ojewuyi of Carbondale
23. Marc and Lori Cohen of Cobden
16. Anna and Michael Little of Carbondale
24. Carol and Mike Snuffer of Carterville
17. Denise and Dr. Terry Glennon of Carterville
25. Steve and Karen Binder and Diane and Estus Hood, all of Carbondale
18. Sarah Van Vooren of Carbondale and Becky Stokes of Murphysboro
26. Cheryl Ranchino and Bess Hogan of Herrin
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Red Carpet Gala
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Hospice of Southern Illinois hosted its annual fundraising gala Jan. 26 at the Pavilion of the City of Marion. All proceeds benefit the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s efforts to provide hospice care throughout Southern Illinois. 1. Jennifer Tanner of Marion
8. Jared Garrison and Vicky Waterbury of Marion
2. Robert and Anna Bordenave of Creal Springs
9. Shannon and Doug Johnson of Marion
3. Robert and Patricia Cruse of Marion, Scott Murrie and Monica McGinley of Marion
10. Taylor Calhoon and Tina Calhoon of Goreville
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11. Dianne Sipller of Jonesboro and Jackie Parker of Marion
4. Teresa Cash and Scott Wilkins of Anna 5. Doug and Jennifer Comte of Tamaroa
12. Gina Crain of Hurst, Ann McNeill of Paducah, Kat Bell of Carbondale, Brianna Mason of Carterville, Emily Hanson of Carbondale and Chrystal Nause of Makanda
6. Hayden Gardiner of Marion and Julia Todd of Cobden 7. Suzanne Kerley, Sheilah Whittington and Julie Brown, all of Marion 3
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Cara Recine
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13. J.R. Tanner, Tim Yearack, Cyndie and Wes Cook, all of Marion; Joe Leberman of Pope County
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14. Kyle Douglas of McLeansboro and Julie Lampley of Mount Vernon 15. Vera Vaughn and Lisa Vaughn of Harrisburg 16. April Smith and Christian Eisenhauer of Carbondale 17. Carrie Smith and Sandy Arnold of Marion 18. Verna Webb of Herrin and Cindy Bishing of Carterville 19. David and Elaine Melby of Carterville 20. Leslie Miller of Herrin, Barrett Fox of Lake of Egypt and Julia Plumley of Lake of Egypt 21. Mary Clark and Bill Kuzma of Carterville 22. Marin Eovaldi and D.W. Norris of Murphysboro 23. John and Laura Atkinson; Melisa and Matt Adkins, all of Marion
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CCA on the move
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Carbondale Community Arts celebrated 25 years Feb. 4 at Hickory Lodge. In April, the group celebrated finding a new home downtown.
2. Kay Pick Zivkovich and Jan Payne of Carbondale 3. Emil (left) and Edie (right) Spees of Carbondale along with Tom Kidd (center) of Carbondale
4. Ed Phillips of Murphysboro and Aldon Addington of Carbondale
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5. CCA Board Member Gary Kolb, Charlie and Kimberly Leonard of Carbondale, Susie Phillips of Murphysboro and CCA Board Member David Coracy
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Synergy Therapeutic Group Carbondale 618.529.4360 | Mt. Vernon 618.244.2213 | DuQuoin 618.542.8950
www.synergytherapeuticgroup.com 18 Life & Style : Summer 2013
Paul Newton
1. Mary Ellen Dillard of Carbondale, Najjar Abdul-Musawwir of Carbondale, Marsha Ryan of Carbondale and Jeanna Jones of Carterville
Stowaway Garages A Great Place to Store Vehicles Antique Cars Boats Special Projects
Storage Barns A Great Place to Store Mowers ATVs Bikes 1-800-786-7111 .HWWHPDQ /DQH v (ZLQJ ,/
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LifeSavers Spring Fling
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This dinner and show was hosted by LifeSavers Training Corporation on April 6 at the Murphysboro Event Center. LifeSavers is a peer support, suicide and crisis prevention training program for adolescents and young adults. 1. Tim Damian, Tom Redmond, Steve Banker, Mary Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hara and Mary Kay Bachmann 4
2. Morgan Collard, Mallory Deven and Lindsey Collard 3. Hugh Muldoon and Judy Ashby 4. Dennis Leitner, Sandy Anderson and Bill Hunter 5. David DiLalla, Liz DiLalla (LSTC Board of Directors) and Robin Russell
6. Natalia Montano and Fred York 7. Gina Kluessendorf, Judy Ashby, Molly Hellmann and Cailah Brock 8. Entertainers T Murph, Vincent Hale, Allison Spiller, Jennifer Lee and Charlie Hope Dorsey 9. Don and Alice Perryman 10. Melanie Shannon and Britni Woodworth 11. Bollywood dancers Rwik Sen, Kristin Bogdonas, Drumil Trivedi and Natalia Montano
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Provided by Devin Snoddy
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Mad Hatterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ball
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This Feb. 3 event at Herrin Civic Center helped Herrin Food Pantry and Downtown Revitalization Project. 1. Brian and Kandi Chapman of Herrin 2. Brandy Lange and Van Travelstead of Marion 3. Beth Harness, Committee Member, with Co-Chair, Jennifer Frost of Herrin 4. Anthony Cawthon and Melissa Patterson of Carbondale
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5. William and Brandee Davis of Energy 6. Committee member and co-chair Nina Helleny with her parents, Greg and Victoria Sprehe of Herrin 7. Rachel and David Stacey of Herrin 8. Cathy Childers, Randy Youngblood and Kathy Boston of Herrin 9. Richard Pisoni of Herrin with Carol King of Carbondale 5
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10. Frank and Vicki Colombo of Herrin 11. Dr. Terrence Glennon and wife, Denise, of Herrin 12. Dr. Roger and Pam Hendricks of Herrin 13. Dr. Bill and Judy Fix of Herrin
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14. Joe Leenerts and wife, Hila, of Herrin 15. Jeff and Kelly Green of Herrin 16. Cale and Amanda Newlin of Herrin
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Provided by Vicki Colombo
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Carterville Chamber
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Members of the Carterville Chamber of Commerce got together Feb. 7 in the Community Center for their annual banquet. 4. Dixie Simmons, Jenifer Rongey and Angela Congiardo
2. Jim Marlo and John O’Keefe of Marion
5. Amy and Ron Simpson of Carterville
3. Lauren Craig, Cindy Bisching, Leigh Bedokis-Gusta and Jeff Gusta of Carterville
6. Darren Berger of Carbondale and Mindy Combs of Carterville
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Paul Newton
1. John Drake, Doug Williams, Junior Burke and Greg Ingram of Carterville
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Shoot for the Stars
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Artstarts raised money for art scholarships during a Feb. 16 event at the Pavilion of the City of Marion. 2. Ken Gilbert of New York, N.Y., Charles Rudolph of Carterville and Sara Starbuck of Carterville
Aaron Eisenhauer
1. (Back row, from left) Jake Stern of Springfield, Trish Francis of Murphysboro, Ronda Craft of Carterville, Hannah Craft of Carterville and Allen Craft of Carterville. (Front row, from left) Emma Francis of Murphysboro, Erin Stern of Springfield, Lydia Craft of Carterville and Ethan Stern of Springfield
3. Jill and Scott Elliot of Herrin 4. James and Lisa Sissom of Herrin
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Life & Style : Summer 2013 23
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Taste of Chocolate
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On Feb. 1, anyone wishing to taste some great chocolatebased goodies and take home some terrific auction items had a perfect opportunity at the Carbondale Civic Center.
1. Jasmine Aquino and Jessica Richman of Carbondale 2. Molly Edwards-Britton and Paula Franklin of Makanda 3. Shari and George Burruss of Makanda, Paula Vineyard Most of Carbondale and Melissa Banz of Makanda 4. Carolyn Harvey of Carbondale and Lola Harty of Murphysboro
5. Anna Dillard and Morgan Dillard of Carbondale 6. Richard Thalman of Carbondale and Bill Benton of Murphysboro 7. Linda James and Linda Stadler of Murphysboro 8. Kristy Vestal of Murphysboro and Michelle Dailey of Carbondale
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9. Tonya Jones of Marion; Yavonne Field, Tracy Rone and Adrienne Storch of Herrin; Christena Vallerga and Nickie Sylvester of Marion
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Rhonda M. May and Cara Recine
10. Jody and Christal Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Guinn of Carbondale
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17. Taylor Baker, Lianne Watson and Philip Watson of Makanda; Susan Watson of Carbondale 18. Mary Rowe Hutsch and Lori Weiss of Carbondale
11. Diane Hood of Carbondale, Steve and Jolene Falat of Murphysboro
19. Kay Dosier and Dick Smith of Carbondale
12. Mike and Mary Alice Kimmel of Carbondale
20. Shawne Williams of Pinckneyville and Jan Payne of Carbondale
13. Arman Atamian and Kevin Jamieson of Marion 14. Tina Moon and Shelley Franklin of Makanda 15. Katrina Stackhouse of Carbondale and Nadine Wojnarowski of Marion 16. Elaine Borgsmiller and Laura Helsel of Carbondale
21. Karen Martin and Laurie Geiger of Carbondale 22. Maggie Flanagan of Carbondale and Donna Ayers of Carterville 23. Vanessa Sneed of Whittington and Susan Edgren of rural Carbondale
Life & Style : Summer 2013 25
social seen 1
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Herrin Chamber of Commerce
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Herrin’s theme for its annual dinner was ‘beach getaway,’ perfect for the mid-winter date of Jan. 25. The event took place at Herrin Civic Center. 1. Jill and Bob Williams of Carbondale and Linda and Kevin Hatfield of Herrin
6. Terence and Malie Farrell of Herrin
2. Mike and Carol Dreith
7. Alex Hendrickson, Monica Young and Adrienne Storch of Herrin
3. Joe and Nina Helleny of Herrin
8. Jake and Carolyn Rendleman of Carterville
4. Randy and Kathy Lively of Herrin
9. Jim and Janice Marlo of Marion
5. Vicki and Frank Colombo of Herrin
10. Dr. Barry Vesciglio and Dr. Ted VanAcker of Herrin
4 5
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Mary T. Layton & Cara Recine
10
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11. Shane and Stephanie Bishop of Herrin
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12. Carla and David Hays of Herrin 13. Cheryl Ranchino, Bob Trench and Bess Hogan of Herrin 14. Mark and Christie Collins of Herrin 14
15. Chris and Peggy Trapini of Herrin 16. Steve Frattini of Herrin, Jennifer Wade of Marion and Deborah Hogg 17. Mike and Donna Monchino of Herrin
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18. Richard and Carol Pisoni of Herrin
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19. Brent Gentry of Carterville and Randy Lynn of Herrin 20. Erica and Tim Stuart of Carbondale and Kim and Keith Fowler of Herrin 21. Sue Ridgeway, Father Ken Schaefer and Pete and Mary Bondioli of Herrin 22. Sandra Colombo and Mayor Vic Ritter of Herrin
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23. Mark Kochan and Kelly Green of Herrin 24. Kathy and David Boston of Herrin 25. Jim and Mary Snider of Herrin
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Mary T. Layton & Cara Recine
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Life & Style : Summer 2013 27
Paving the Way to Progress The Business: Womack’s Concrete Construction Owners: William and Suzie Womack Phone: (618) 926-1330 Womack’s Concrete Construction is a locally owned business in Saline County. With over 15 year’s experience, we strive to provide quality service to our customers. Womack’s Concrete Construction is owned by William and Suzie Womack of Carrier Mills, IL. We offer residential concrete which includes footings, floors, sidewalks, patios, driveways, decorative concrete and many other concrete needs. Our trained concrete finishers have years of experience in concrete. Together with our staff, we practice professionalism and provide excellent customer service. Our high standards combined with reliability and integrity, yield a continuous list of satisfied customers.
of his crew. They are Shown here is Bill Womack (left) and some d at the working on the new truck stop expansion locate urg. Mitchellsville Country Store south of Harrisb
On February, 29th, 2012, Saline County was struck by an EF-4 tornado that left our community broken. Our company is insured through Williams and Associates in Harrisburg, IL. They are a local insurance company that went above and beyond the call of duty during this difficult time. The Sunday after the tornado struck, Nathan Ashby (our agent with Williams and Associates agent) together with our staff volunteered their Sunday to help clean up for those in need. With that said, it reminds me of the reasons why we chose Williams and Associates for our insurance provider. Nathan Ashby is understanding, knowledgeable, and provides us with peace of mind. The staff at Williams and Associates are friendly, courteous, and provide the utmost professionalism. We want to express a heartfelt “thank you” for protecting our company and others in our community and beyond.
The Business: Mott Builders, Inc. Owners: Terry & Jerri Mott Phone: (618) 926-2721 Mott Builders is a second generation family owned business that was started in 1984 in Harrisburg, IL, by John G. Mott, who ran the business until retiring in 2006. At that time, John passed the business onto his son, Terry, who along with his wife, Jerri, and son, Derek, continues to serve Southern Illinois in all areas of the construction needs. Specializing in Custom Home Building, Mott Builders is also proud to include such projects as The Masonic Lodge in Harrisburg, and the Hindu Temple that is being constructed in Carbondale, IL. The most satisfying work of late was being blessed with the opportunity to help families return to their new homes and attempt to return to normal day to day living following the Leap Day tornado in Harrisburg. We joined in the cleanup from day one to just this last week finishing another new house that was destroyed in the Leap Day tornado. Throughout it all, whether in normal day to day operations or in the middle of a disaster, Williams & Associates along with Nathan Ashby have been an asset to work with for all our insurance needs.
Shown here are three gen erations of the Mott fam (center) with his father John Mott (left) and son ily: Owner, Terry Mott Derek Mott (right). Mot Builders, Inc. completely t rebuilt Harrisburg after the 2/29 this home located in the county club area of /2012 tornado destroyed the previous one.
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28 Life & Style : Summer 2013
don’t miss this
A summer of theater! HAIR When: Friday, June 21-Sunday, June 23, and Friday, June 28Sunday, June 30 Where: McLeod Theater, SIU Communications Building, Carbondale Tickets: $25 for adults, $10 for children; Summer Playhouse season tickets $55 for adults, $20 for children Info: 618-453-6000, playhouse.siu.edu The annual McLeod Summer Playhouse series begins with this “American Tribal Love-Rock Musical.” Based on the book and lyrics by James Rado and Gerome Ragni, with a score by Galt MacDermot, the show is set during the counter-culture revolution of the 1960s. It tells the story of two friends, a romantic and an extrovert, who become enmeshed in a group of longhaired free-thinkers who find their future threatened by the Viet-nam War. The tale is told in a visual, almost psychedelic, montage of scene and rock songs. The score contains many hit songs, including “Aquarius,” “Hair,” “Easy to be Hard,” “Good Morning Sunshine” and “Let the Sunshine In.”
ANNE OF GREEN GABLES When: Thursday, July 11-Sunday, July 14 Where: Varsity Center for the Arts, 418 S. Illinois Ave., Carbondale
June 2013 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
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Info: www.stagecompany.org The Stage Co. presents a new dramatization, adapted by Joseph Robinette, of L.M. Montgomery’s novel. The classic tale tells of an orphan girl from her first encounter with her austere guardian to her graduation from Queen’s Academy. The play recreates the memorable moments and characters of the novel. All the triumphs and tragedies that mark the titular character’s growth from adolescence to early childhood, including her friendships, feuds, adorations and adventures, are featured. The play appeals to longtime fans of the story, as well as people discovering it for the first time.
HARVEY When: Friday, July 26-Saturday, July 27 Where: Benton Civic Center, Benton Info: www.pyramidplayers.org The Pyramid Players return with their second show of the summer, focused more on an adult audience. Mary Chase’s 1944 play has been adapted in several variations, most notably a 1950 film starring James Stewart. The story focuses on a man and his unseen friend, Harvey, who he describes as a six-foot, three-and-one-half-inch tall pooka resembling an anthropomorphic rabbit. The man’s sister becomes less than amused with her brother’s habits of introducing Harvey to everyone he meets and has him sent to an institution, but once they arrive, a comedy of errors ensues. The sister ends up institutionalized instead, and once everything is straightened out, the hunt for her brother is on. In the end, she faces the choice of whether or not to give her brother treatment that would make him “normal.”
For more information on these events and activities across Southern Illinois, go to www.LifeandStyleSI.com
July 2013 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
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OLIVER When: Thursday, June 27-Friday, June 28 Where: Benton Civic Center, Benton Info: www.pyramidplayers.org Pyramid Players, Southern Illinois’ longest-established community theater organization will present this famed British show, the first work of Charles Dickens to become a successful musical. The theater version maintains but simplifies much of the novel that inspired it, “Oliver Twist.” The story focuses on a young boy raised in a workhouse, after his unnamed mother dies in the streets shortly after giving birth. Fleeing that environment, he finds himself residing with a master criminal, who teaches young children to be pickpockets. From there, the young boy’s life and experiences take a number of twists and turns, helping him learn lessons about life and his own past.
ANNIE When: Friday, July 12-Sunday, July 14 and Friday, July 19-Sunday, July 21 Where: McLeod Theater, SIU Communications Building, Carbondale Tickets: $25 for adults, $10 for children; Summer Playhouse season tickets $55 for adults, $20 for children Info: 618-453-6000, playhouse.siu.edu The McLeod Summer Playhouse series continues with this timeless classic. The family musical tells the story of a spunky 10-year-old Depressionera orphan determined to find the parents who abandoned on the steps of an orphanage her years ago. In a series of funfilled adventures, Annie foils the scheme of orphanage matriarch Miss Hannigan, befriends President Roosevelt and finds a new family with a billionaire, his secretary and a loveable homeless dog. The show features songs like “Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street” and “Tomorrow.”
More to see in August LES MISERABLES When: Thursday, Aug. 1-Saturday, Aug. 3 Where: Marion Cultural and Civic Center, 800 Tower Square Plaza, Marion Info: 618-997-4030, www.marionccc.com Local theater companies Dance4Grandma Theatricals and Skyline Creek will present the renowned musical adaptation of Victor Hugo’s 1862 novel. The work has inspired a number of other adaptations, including the 2012 movie with Hugh Jackman and Anne Hathaway. The story is that of an abnormally strong French peasant, trying to redeem himself after a 19-year prison sentence for stealing bread to feed his sister’s starving child. Inspired by a bishop, the man decides to break his parole and start life anew, but finds himself being tracked through revolutionary France by the local law. The show was originally produced in French but later adapted to English. The soundtrack includes songs such as “I Dreamed a Dream,” “A Heart Full of Love” and “One More Day.”
Life & Style : Summer 2013 29
15 questions
Getting to know
Lori Merrill-Fink They say if you want to know somebody better, ask them a lot of questions. But not just any old questions. Even though it began at the end of the 19th century, when French writer Marcel Proust answered his first set of questions, this form of interview is still going strong. Proust was questioned by his friend Antoinette Faure, who took the idea from the English. The idea has been used by numerous interviewers since, including French TV host Bernard Pivot, who inspired James Lipton, host of Bravo TV’s “Inside the Actors Studio.” A similar questionnaire is regularly seen on the back page of Vanity Fair magazine and is answered by various celebrities. We asked Lori Merrill-Fink to complete our version of the Proust questionnaire. Lori received an MFA in Acting/Directing and a BFA in Musical Theater from the University of Arizona. She is Director of the University Honors Program and an Associate Professor of Theater at SIU Carbondale. Lori has been honored with numerous awards for her outstanding teaching. As a professional singer/actress, director and choreographer, Lori has more than 100 productions to her credit. Among her most prized accomplishments was being one of 20 actors chosen by the Kennedy Center to study acting with the late Uta Hagen. When and where are you happiest? Anywhere there is a beach. Sandy, rocky, grassy — makes no difference. I love being near water. It is very calming. Who are your favorite historical figures? St. Hildegard of Bingen and her work in spirituality, healing and the arts. Anais Nin for her writings. William Wallace. Who are your favorite fictional characters? Jean Valjean, Fantine, Jack the Builder. I am sucker for historical fiction. What one thing do you dislike the most? Intolerance and hate. That is two, but unfortunately they all too often go together. What is your most marked personal characteristic? People know they can count on me. What is your principle fault? I can be a bit of a control freak at times. Just ask my family. What quality do you most admire in a man? The ability to be present. What quality do you most admire in a woman? The ability to feel good in her own skin. What characteristic do you most value in your friends? Honesty. Who are your heroes? Meryl Streep, Pina Bausch, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Anne Morrow Lindberg, Ayn Rand, Edith Piaf, SARK. What natural gift would you most like to possess? To sing soul and R&B. What is your present state of mind? Feels like a browser with 3,000 tabs open all at once. If you could come back as a person or thing, what would it be? A bird. I’ve always wanted to be able to fly. What is your biggest self-indulgence? I take a vacation day the first Monday of every month just for me. What is your personal motto? Don’t believe everything you think.
30 Life & Style : Summer 2013
Paul Newton
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recreation
story by Adam Testa
No, it’s not a trapeze; it’s ziplining at Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour
Countless adventures await adventurous men and women in the tree-covered hills of Shawnee National Forest. Hiking, biking and rock climbing allow those bravehearts to discover the forest’s hidden secrets by ground, while rivers and streams offer kayakers or canoers the chance to experience the majesty by water. A new company has now made it possible for people of all ages to traverse the forest in a new way — by air.
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Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour opened its Union County facility in April, allowing patrons the opportunity to ride eight ziplines, ranging in length from 180 feet to 1,016 feet, through the tree-covered canopy of the Shawnee. “We’re not in competition with anything around here,” said owner Marc Miles. “It only adds to the things you can do in Southern Illinois. This adds another dimension of something that nearly
everyone can do to come in touch with nature.” There are no age restrictions to be able to participate, but patrons must weigh between 70 and 270 pounds. The tour lasts about three hours and includes the eight ziplines and three aerial bridges, ranging from 60 feet to 180 feet. Several elements of Shawnee Bluffs’ course separate it from others in the Midwest.
Fly
through the air with the
greatest of ease
First, most ziplines in this part of the country don’t exceed 500 feet because they lose canopy cover. Four of the lines at the Union County facility extend beyond that point, reaching 690, 750, 765 and 1,016 feet. The true specialty, though, is that the entire course is treebased, meaning no artificial poles or support structures had to
be developed. Miles said this is a rarity, especially in the Midwest. Two other elements that stand out are the vastness of the forest surrounding the course and the aspect that it will look different during each season of the year, as leaves grow and fall and sunshine gives way to winter snowfall. “It’s pristine,” Miles said. “You can’t see a house from out here. There’s nothing out there distracting you. The only
more information Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour What: Eight-zipline course offering three-hour tour experience Where: Off Interstate 57 on Sullivan/Robinson Hill Road between Marion and Anna in Union County Contact: 855-386-9477 or info@shawneezip.com Website: www.shawneezip.com Tickets: $85 per person; parties of eight receive a 10 percent discount
Life & Style : Summer 2013 33
Paul Newton
recreation
Ross Curry of Bonsai Design works on constructing a tree-attached platform as part of the new Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour in Makanda.
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thing you might see is a red-tailed hawk flying overhead.” There’s more to the tour than just excitement, Miles added. In addition to the ziplining, one of about 36 trained guides also educate guests on the flora and fauna of the region and life in Shawnee National Forest. In March, before Shawnee Bluffs opened to the public, a television crew from WGN in Chicago visited Southern Illinois to see the new business in operation firsthand. “They were just totally amazed,” Miles said.
Life & Style : Summer 2013 35
style
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if bright colors arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t your thing you can still hit the mark with lace, leather, metallics and more. The important thing to keep in mind this season is that your sunglasses should be fresh and uniquely you. Designers appear to be drawing inspiration from the past and looking to the future at the same time, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what makes these looks so versatile and fun. Ladies, menswear is a â&#x20AC;&#x153;doâ&#x20AC;? across
the board, and eyewear is a great way to rock the look without going too far. For our gentlemen readers, keep in mind that several choices are unisex; bright colors, patterns and texture are in for you, too! No matter if your style is classic, country, urban or sporty there is a pair of great new specs to finish off your summer look. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Rana Daunis
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work spaces
WORK SPACES Dennis Rathjen
Family and cars come first for this dedicated Ford dealer, but Saluki sports aren’t far behind Selling cars is the only job Dennis Rathjen has ever known. After graduating from Gorham High School, the Southern Illinois native spent a year serving in Vietnam and then opted to pursue an associate degree in business from John A. Logan College. Graduation came and went, and when the time came for Rathjen to find a full-time job, he turned to Vogler Motor Company in Carbondale. He began his tenure as a salesman in 1972 and never left. “This is the only job I’ve ever had full time,” said Rathjen, now majority owner of the company. He sold cars for seven years before being promoted to management in 1979 and bought into the company in 1986. After the death of Frank Black in 2008, he and partner Brian Black took the reigns. “It’s the only thing I know,” Rathjen said. “You learn something new every day, but you forget something every day, as well. When you have a great team like I do, though, it doesn’t matter.” Cars may be a top priority in Rathjen’s life, but sports aren’t far behind. A lifelong St. Louis Cardinals and Rams fan, Rathjen also has a special place in his heart for Saluki sports, including baseball, football, basketball and more. “I’m kind of known as a sports nut, and you can see that’s true,” he said, as he showed off his office at Vogler. — Adam Testa
photography by Paul Newton
38 Life & Style : Summer 2013
Rathjen has bought three commemorative bricks at Busch Stadium. He has replicas of two of them, purchased in honor of his parents and his family, in his office. The third was in recognition of an aunt and uncle, who brought him to sporting events as a child. The money benefitted Cardinals Care, the team’s charitable branch. ‘It’s a great cause,’ Rathjen said.
While he lives between Carbondale and Murphysboro now, Rathjen’s childhood was spent in the Bottoms, where he grew up in Jacob. Each year, the town hosts a tractor parade and releases a postcard featuring a different resident and his tractor. Rathjen keeps the cards as a reminder of his upbringing and childhood home.
Rathjen keeps a seating chart of Busch Stadium on his desk, so when people come in saying they have tickets, he can show them where they’ll be sitting. He’s had Cardinals season tickets since the early 1980s, sitting about 20 rows off the field on the first-base line. He shares the tickets with seven other people.
These seats, which were removed from SIU Arena before it was renovated in 2010, are another sign of Rathjen’s commitment to Saluki athletics. He also has a piece of the arena floor on display.
While he enjoys supporting the St. Louis teams, Rathjen always has a special place in his heart for his local athletes, as well. ‘I don’t miss a home game,’ he said of the Salukis. This football has been signed by Salukis football coach Dale Lennon.
In addition to sports and cars, family is very important to Rathjen. The photos on the right show his three children: Angela, a teacher in the St. Louis area; Melinda, an author for the Veggietales series; and John, who has worked with his dad at Vogler for five years.
Sports memorabilia fills the walls and shelves of Rathjen’s office at Vogler Motor Company’s Carbondale headquarters. ‘I’ve got a lot more at home, but I’ve run out of space there, too,’ he said.
Rathjen’s brother has won national awards for his handmade duck calls, and Rathjen keeps a few on display. His brother also recently made a special one featuring the likeness of late Salukis baseball coach Dan Callahan to be auctioned off at the team’s annual fundraiser.
Hanging outside Rathjen’s office, these pictures, taken in 1938, show off the early days of Vogler Motor Company and the men who helped build the company in its early years.
As a St. Louis Cardinals season ticket holder, Rathjen receives a free gift from the team each season. These two replica awards were given out in commemoration of the Cardinals’ World Series victories in 2006 and 2011.
Life & Style : Summer 2013 39
apps
Take it to the next level with
outdoor apps story by Adam Testa Many people think of embarking on an outdoor adventure as a way to escape everyday life, a time to leave technology behind and embrace what nature has to offer. But, in today’s reality, there might be a different perspective to consider. Technology, in the form of smartphones, tablets or other handheld devices, can actually enhance, rather than hinder, any given adventure. Turn the ringer off and commit yourself to not making calls, but enable proper applications to take the experience to the next level. Here are some handy and recommended adventure apps: AllTrails: Whether at home or on the road traveling, this app can help find an adventure. It provides GPS tracking, offline topographical maps for hiking, camping and biking and national park support. It will use your current location to list nearby trails. Once a trail is selected, the app will show a photo of the trail, list its difficulty level and name other attributes, such as horse and dog allowances and whether or not the trail is appropriate for kids. The Great Outdoors: This app won’t teach you the ingredients of hot dogs or how to scalp a bear, but it will help you find campsites anywhere in the United States. Working off current location, the app will sort campsites by amenities, pet allowances and other criteria. It will also provide descriptions of the site and the surrounding area.
40 Life & Style : Summer 2013
Chimani Guides: This series of apps features content written by a professional travel writer, each focused on a different geographic area where adventure awaits. Topics include a general national parks app and specific park apps, such as Grand Canyon, Great Smokey Mountain and Yellowstone national parks. From backpacking to hiking and climbing and cycling, these apps help users navigate their way. They also provide sunrise and sunset information, tidal data, ranger-led events, professional photographs and a log to keep a personal account of the journey. Knot Guide: On every adventure, there will come a time when you need to tie a knot; it’s seemingly inevitable. And, for many, it’s been years since Boy Scouts training and a refresher would certainly be helpful. Following the on-screen directions to create a number of different styles of knots can make the task easy for just about anyone. This app can help, whether
you’re preparing ropes for rock climbing, making a hitch for your water vessel, holding gear in place or strapping equipment to the roof of the car. Wilderness Survival Pro: Any outdoors enthusiast could benefit from having this portable survival guide in his or her pocket. The app offers advice and information on topics such as finding food, water and shelter, and also shows how to build fires and signals for help. Everyone hopes this information will not be needed; but, in the event of an emergency, it’s worthwhile to have.
Largest Selection of Pandora & Brighton in Southern Illinois
Wikitude: This app aims to serve as the user’s “third eye” and allows the user to see things he or she wouldn’t normally see. Using a phone or device’s camera, the app will engage with the immediate surroundings, providing information on sites, restaurants and even people. By grouping some of the places in sight, it provides a clear vision of the user’s surroundings. Interactive content is available for more than 100 million places around the world, and users can browse with their cameras by what they’re looking at or by specific search criteria. Linked with sites like Twitter, Wikipedia, Yelp, Oype, TripAdvisor and Hotels.com, this app also acts as a one-stop shop for a lot of travel and adventure information.
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Life & Style : Summer 2013 41
Paul Newton
cover
Evan Truesdale and Krystal Caronongan ride near Campus Lake at SIU. Both are experienced cyclists who work at The Bike Surgeon in Carbondale.
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Tour de
story by Joe Szynkowski photography by Aaron Eisenhauer and Paul Newton
Enjoyed by many, but untapped by most, Southern Illinois offers some of the best cycling experiences in the Midwest Adventure does not always require a passport and a plane ticket. As many people young and old have found, the region is a hotbed for some of the most challenging, rewarding cycling experiences the nation has to offer. It is adventure at its finest, and it is right here in Southern Illinois.
Life & Style : Summer 2013 43
cover
Cyclists make a sharp turn on Grassy Road during the Great Egyptian Omnium.
t is a phrase that resurfaces as resolutely as the weekend warriors who infiltrate local bike trails after spending their work weeks obsessing over their next adventure. Its words combine to form a statement both powerful and puzzling: Mountain biking is the best-kept secret in Southern Illinois. Why the secrecy? What is holding back the masses from enjoying the calf-blazing climbs and resonant beauty of the region’s mountain-biking landscape? Those are questions uttered regularly by local cycling enthusiasts, who spend their free time both climbing on their high-performance mountain bikes and dotting leisurely down the region’s hilly roads. The area may not have the mountains of Colorado – or any mountains at all – but it features some of the best climbs in the Midwest. Hidden from many, maybe, but not from the diehards who work so hard to enjoy every square inch that Southern Illinois has to offer.
‘An untapped resource’
Local trails aren’t hiding from Rebecca Wyatt Nevitt. The master trainer and weight management coach seeks them out and uses them to prepare for competitive events – like the half ironman she is slated to participate in this fall. “There are so many nice spots to ride in the Shawnee,” she said. “From Eagle Mountain to One Horse Gap, there is a lot of good climbing.” Nevitt individualizes her personal training services with a pre-program fitness assessment for each client to establish baseline measurements and body composition. She says cycling is essentially a universal way to get into shape, and uses the activity extensively.
44 Life & Style : Summer 2013
“The beauty of cycling is that it is nonimpact and it is very easy on the body,” she said. “It is great cardio and it really has a lot of benefit for any population, from kids up to seniors.” Nevitt, who is also the Harrisburg Township Parks and Recreation Director, has biked in locations across the country. She grew up in Madisonville, Ky., and then lived in Florida for 25 years. During her time in the sunshine state, she took a trip to the Shawnee for a biking adventure. “I just kept coming back,” she said. “The mountain biking is phenomenal.” Count Nevitt as a local who is in on the secret. “You’ll hear people say it all of the time, the mountain biking here is amazing,” she said. “It is a hidden gem and is such an untapped resource.”
Amazing landscape
For anyone doubting the national notoriety that Southern Illinois has generated within the cycling community, the proof can be found whizzing by on Main Street in Marion during the criterium stage of the annual Great Egyptian Ominium. Riders come from as far away as Arkansas and Oklahoma to compete in the two-day event that has gained serious traction among competitors, local businesses, and within the cycling community. In Alexander County, the Tour de Shawnee is becoming a fall-time classic, with nearly 300 cyclists participating annually in the event that sends riders through Horseshoe Lake in Olive Branch and Mound City National Cemetery, among other breath-taking sights.
Events like the Great Egyptian Ominum and Tour de Shawnee help show off the area’s versatility, history, and natural beauty, “Southern Illinois is a really good cycling community,” said longtime rider Chad Briggs. “Being able to go right outside your door and ride the hills we have in Southern Illinois is just perfect.” Briggs is a member of Southern Illinois University Cycling Club and The Bike Surgeon team. He fell in love with cycling during his childhood in Iowa, and rode in his first lengthy event when he was 13 years old. He encourages riders of all skills sets to hit the trails and roads, and to join a local club. One such club – Conti Cycling of Mount Vernon – is enjoying its city’s recent efforts toward improving the cycling experience. Along with the various signage improvements Mount Vernon has invested in, a trail is planned to extend from Lincoln Park to Veterans Memorial Drive, west to Wells Bypass. “There was a desire there for more in terms of cycling,” said Ron Neibert, Mount Vernon’s city manager.
Get involved
Carbondale native Evan Truesdale has competed in numerous local events, including the Ominium and the Ardie Miller Memorial Belleville Bicycle Race. When racing for competition, Truesdale prefers his Specialized Shiv. “It is an absolute demon,” he said. “It is rocket-ship fast. Its frame is designed purely for speed. I have set some personal records on it.” Truesdale knows his bikes. Not only a competitor, he is also a sales associate and mechanic at The Bike Surgeon in Carbondale. He works tirelessly to promote the sport he loves, as well as the
area he considers one of the best for mountain biking. He said the trends of what’s hot and what’s not in terms of cycling equipment and gear is related to what people are seeing on TV. “During the spring classics period of professional cycling, people are looking at riders and trying to see what kind of bikes and other equipment they are using.” The full-carbon road bikes, the Specialized Tarmac and Specialized Roubaix have been popular items at local shops this season. Spending $1,000 on a new bike is out of the question for avid riders. But Truesdale urges cyclists of all ages and skill sets to remember a much cheaper accessory for a safe, enjoyable ride – the helmet. “Helmets have saved my life a couple of times, I’m convinced of that,” said Truesdale, who also advises riders who are looking for a new bike to get professionally
fitted for their new bike, a process that can sometimes take up to a couple of hours. “We look at body position and take a couple of different metrics to measure the human body,” he said. “We just want to make sure you get the most out of your riding experience.” Truesdale has been getting the most out of his riding experience for years. Some of his favorite cycling spots in Southern Illinois are the wine trails, while his favorite climbs are the Smiley Hill climb in Makanda and the Balk Knob climb. “Those climbs give you a feel for what the professionals are doing,” he said. “So many people around here have no idea the caliber of riding that we have.” What a secret. Joe Szynkowski is a freelance writer for Life & Style. Read more work at www.joeszynkowski.com or follow him @JoeSzynkowski.
Cyclists make their way along Tunnel Hill State Trail in Tunnel Hill. The former railroad tunnel, which gives the trail its name, stretches more than 500 feet.
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cover
Nice bike!
Here’s how to maintain it
So you just picked up your shiny new full-carbon road bike, and you’re ready to hit the pavement. Over the coming weeks and months, your new prized possession will need routine maintenance that you can either perform yourself or leave to a trusted local mechanic. One such professional – Doug McDonald with Phoenix Cycles in Carbondale – gave us these quick maintenance tips to keep your ride rolling for years to come. — Joe Szynkowski
Tune It Up Owner McDonald and his Phoenix employees are hit hard every spring with riders just seeking to knock the dust off their rides, so to speak. A long winter season means little or no riding, and it is important to make sure your ride is up to the challenge of an adventure-filled summer. “Essentially we just take any problems that they may have had at the end of the last riding season, and get those fixed,” McDonald said. “We true the wheels, lube the chains and make other adjustments.” Keeping the chain clean and lubricated is one of the best ways to keep your bike working well, according to McDonald. “We’ll have people who are frustrated that their bikes aren’t working properly, but they usually just need to do a little maintenance.”
Specialized Roubaix SL4 Expert Ui2 features a super light and stiff carbon frame, equipped with Shimano Ultegra components, www. specialized.com; $4,100.
Tire Pressure Maintaining your tires can be the simplest — yet most often overlooked — acts of responsible bike ownership. Keeping optimum air pressure levels can help make pedaling easier, protect your rims from damage, prolong tire life, and decrease the odds of a flat. McDonald urges riders to fill up at least once a week.
46 Life & Style : Summer 2013
Proper Storage Did you leave your ride out in the elements over the winter? That’s a big oops that could cost you big bucks in repair costs. “We had a young man let his bike sit outside and it got rained on,” McDonald said. “We had to do a complete overhaul.” If you don’t have the space to protect your investment, consider renting a storage unit or keeping it in the garage of a trustworthy friend.
This is
Adventure for the next generation
Big!
Innovative study unveils powerful cycling statistics
If Trails for Illinois has anything to say about it, it will only get bigger. Making Trails Count – a first-of-itskind, comprehensive survey of six Illinois trails – recently turned up a slew of statistics related to trail usage, user demographics, and economic impact. The Racers share the road with automobiles during the innovative, ongoing Bike Surgeon Road Race in the Great Egyptian project is a partnership Omnium in Creal Springs. between Trails for Illinois and the Rails to Trails Conservancy, and Rails to Trails Conservancy is a nonprofit is aimed at spearheading organization with more than 100,000 economic growth, improved members, and is the largest trails health and environmental organization dedicated to creating a stewardship “We’re hoping that this nationwide network of public trails, many is just the start for us,” said from former rail lines and connecting Trails for Illinois Executive corridors. Visit www.railstotrails.org. Director Steve Buchtel. “We’ve got a baseline of data that provides a sample Trails for Illinois is focused on building of how trails are benefiting a statewide trails community that will Southern Illinois and the integrate trails and trail experiences rest of the state. We want to study more trails and into Illinois work, play, life. Visit leverage what we learn.” www.trailsforillinois.tumblr.com. Between mid-July and mid-October 2012, volunteer teams counted the number of trail users and gathered surveys from boxes placed on six state trails. They also distributed and collected trail user surveys, which included questions about spending patterns. What the surveys turned up is encouraging to not only trails, but the businesses around them. More than one third of trail users bought something during their summertime visits, with users on average spending more than $30 per visit to an Illinois trial. “It shows that people are supporting local shops and eateries while they are enjoying the trails,” Buchtel said. — Joe Szynkowski
For many avid adult cyclists, it all started back in childhood. They pedaled through neighborhoods and sped down hills. From dawn until dusk, their bikes were the vehicle that delivered them into adventure-filled escapes from homework and chores. One local collaboration is making sure that the youth of this generation don’t miss out on similar quests. Camp Ondessonk and the Bike Surgeon are teaming up to create two new adventure programs this summer. The Mountain Biking Adventure program and the Hike, Bike, Paddle and Climb camp are scheduled for June 23-29 and July 21-27, respectively, at Camp Ondessonk. The Hike, Bike, Paddle and Climb program will provide teenage campers the opportunity not only to experience mountain biking, but also hiking, canoeing and rock-climbing in the heart of the Shawnee National forest. The Mount Biking Adventure program will focus more on the basics of mountain biking. “It is designed for teenage campers to spend the first several days learning riding techniques, bike repair, and practicing on our extensive trail system,” said Jeremy Culpepper, Ondessonk’s camping services director. Campers will get to ride a top-of-the-line Specialized Carve Expert provided by the Bike Surgeon, and train with Bike Surgeon owners Jon Greenstreet and Chris Norrington. “We are proud to work with the next generation of cyclists not only to sharpen their skills but to promote responsible mountain biking through adopting the International Mountain Biking Association’s rules of the trail,” Greenstreet said. Camp Ondessonk provides families who face financial hardship the opportunity to receive assistance for all or part of their child’s summer camp tuition. Information on the scholarship program can be found at www.ondessonk.com/ scholarship. — Joe Szynkowski
join the fun Ondessonk Teen Adventure Program Registration Visit www.ondessonk.com or call 877-659-2267 The Mountain Biking Adventure for boys and girls ages 12-15: June 23-29, $525 per camper The Hike, Bike, Paddle and Climb for boys and girls ages 12-15: July 21-27, $525 per camper
Life & Style : Summer 2013 47
in our backyard
‘Factory in the garden’
Classic Garden Ornaments creates special touches for lawns and landscapes
Sometimes, the greatest treasures come from the most unexpected places. When Daniel and Charlotte Ward purchased 123 acres of land in Pomona in 1993, they inherited a plot of land overrun with weeds, invasive plants and rubbish. Twenty years later, they’ve transformed the landscape. The well-manicured lawns, plentiful trees and glistening lake create a welcoming atmosphere, and at the center of it all is their business, a self-proclaimed “factory in the garden.” There, under the banner of Classic Garden Ornaments, they create ornamental planters and decorations of all shapes and sizes. Their products, branded as Longshadow, as well as the methods they use to make them, are rooted in history and tradition. “The fact they’re handmade and cast stone are the two things that really make them special,” Daniel Ward said. “It’s an ancient process, and it’s very labor intensive.” The process of dry casting, meaning the mix used is damp and retains its porosity as it is hand-tamped into Garden ornaments and planters sit on the grounds in Pomona. molds, has been used since the times of the Roman Above: Daniel and Charlotte Ward, owners of Classic Garden Ornaments, Empire, when volcanic ash was combined with sand Ltd. and makers of Longshadow Planters. and crushed stone to create strong, durable building materials. Longshadow planters are made using a very similar process, except white Portland cement is used in place of volcanic ash. These methods offer a number of benefits. The final products retain tiny interior air spaces, so the material can easier withstand freezing and thawing, for example. Classic Garden Ornaments The dry-cast limestone maintains the beauty of natural cut material, rather What: Dry-cast limestone manufacturer than the appearance of a concrete skin. The limestone also protects roots of producing Longshadow brand plants from heat and preserves moisture naturally, making it a quality option for Where: 83 Longshadow Lane, Pomona planting. Ward’s team creates its own molds and patterns, allowing for a wide array of Contact: 618-893-4831 design options. Some clients have pictures of old planters that may be damaged, Website: www.longshadow.com or that they simply want replicated, and the staff can make it happen. But, with nearly 20 years of designs available, custom projects aren’t always needed.
contact us
48 Life & Style : Summer 2013
Aaron Eisenhauer
story by Adam Testa
Products are typically ready for delivery within four to six weeks after order, which includes a 20-day curing process in 100 percent humidity in an onsite greenhouse. The Wards donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a standard display room, but if people are interested in seeing what products are available, arrangements can be made for a visit to the Pomona factory. Looking back on the last 20 years, Ward said there are times he still finds himself amazed at the success he found after leaving Chicago to move south and establish a business and a home in Southern Illinois. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are many days I wake up and pinch myself when I realize weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in, dare I say, the middle of nowhere,â&#x20AC;? he said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;but weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re able to make something in America and carve out a market selling coast to coast and internationally.â&#x20AC;?
Aaron Eisenhauer
â&#x20AC;&#x153;They can usually find something they like among what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve already made,â&#x20AC;? Ward said. Longshadow products can be found at sites around the world, but among the most notable to Ward are ones featured at the state capitol in Juneau, Alaska; Ritz Carlton hotels in Dallas and Dubai; Waldorf Astoria in New York City and Heurtley House in Oak Park, Ill., which was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. All of the Longshadow products are available in a variety of sizes, weighing anywhere from 80 to 2,000 pounds. A majority of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s customers are large companies and venues, but many 24- or 32-inch planter varieties have found their way to private residences, Ward said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are designs we make that fit into any scale of home and with any style of architecture,â&#x20AC;? Ward said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We can help people find the right piece for their landscape.â&#x20AC;?
Greg Murray packs dry mix into a planter mold.
/DQG %HWZHHQ 7KH /DNHV 1$7,21$/ 5(&5($7,21 $5($
&RPH RXW WR &DPS Â&#x2021; +LNH Â&#x2021; %LNH Â&#x2021; 5LGH Â&#x2021; 'ULYH Â&#x2021; 5HOD[ )LVK Â&#x2021; 6ZLP Â&#x2021; %RDW Â&#x2021; +XQW Â&#x2021; /HDUQ Â&#x2021; 3LFQLF DQG HQMR\ÂŤ :LOGOLIH Â&#x2021; +LVWRU\ Â&#x2021; 1DWXUH Â&#x2021; 6SDFH )LQG RXW PRUH DW ZZZ OEO RUJ RU /%/ Life & Style : Summer 2013 49
wine
You can’t find a better combination than fresh fruit and regional wines story by Cara Recine For lovers of wine, sangria is a perfect choice. For people who aren’t big fans of wine, sangria might still be the perfect choice, especially when the temperatures rise and you’re wearing Southern Illinois humidity like a second set of clothes. Sangria, a traditional Spanish drink, is easy to make and even easier to drink. It’s a good seasonal choice, because it goes with just about anything you might serve this summer. And, you can claim that it’s good for you because it’s full of fresh fruit. You could work harder to find Vitamin C in its freshest form, but why should you?
Sangria is like an old-fashioned punch that consists of wine, chopped fruit and a sweetener of some sort, usually lemonlime soda. There are literally hundreds of recipes for sangria, mainly because the mixture allows so much variation in choice of wines, fruit and other ingredients. You can even up the alcohol content with a little brandy, if you want something with a little more kick. Good fruit choices for your sangria include apples, cherries, oranges, kiwi, lemons, limes, pineapples, peaches, melons and berries. Be sure to think locally grown fruit; it will go a long way in enhancing your concoction.
Regional wines
Traditionally, sangria – which literally means ‘blood’ in Spanish – is made with dark, full-bodied reds, hence its name. But, as with many traditions, that is changing. A sangria made with white wine – sangria blanca – is a popular choice. Because wine is the most dominant ingredient, you’ll want to experiment to discover your preference. This gives you the perfect opportunity to explore regional wine varieties.
If you’re looking for a good, regionally produced red, try Norton, Chambourcin and Cabernet Franc; for whites, you can’t do any better than Traminette, Vignoles, Seyval and Chardonel.
Putting it all together
All you have to do is cut the fruit into thin slices or small chunks and mix it with your wine. Many people choose to leave on the peel of citrus fruit; just be sure to wash it thoroughly before slicing. Martha Stewart offers this tip: Chill the bottle of wine thoroughly before mixing with fruit; it will help keep the ice you add later from melting too quickly and diluting the full taste of the sangria. Don’t add the soda or seltzer until after the wine and fruit have had plenty of time together, at least several hours in the fridge or, better yet, overnight. Just before serving, add the other ingredients. Serve in a large pitcher or punch bowl with a wooden spoon to dig out the fruit, which will taste even better after absorbing some of the wine.
The recipes
The recipes offered here come from a few of our local wineries. You’ll find others, in which we suggest local wines that would be terrific. If you think you might like your sangria a little sweeter, ask your favorite vintner for suggestions on wines with more sugar. — Sources: wine.about.com and Wikipedia
50 Life & Style : Summer 2013
Low-Sugar Sangria 1 bottle of red wine 1 lemon cut into wedges 1 lime cut into wedges 1 orange cut into wedges
Owl Creek Sangria 1 bottle Owl Creek Bald Knob (red) or Water Valley (white) 1 cup sweet pineapple juice 1 bottle (750 ml) lemon-lime soda ½ to 1½ cups sugar * 1 lemon, cut into wedges 1 lime, cut into wedges 1 orange, cut into wedges
¾ cup raspberries (fresh or frozen) 2/3 cups Agave nectar 2 cups sparkling water or club soda
Pour wine in the pitcher and squeeze wedges from the lemon, orange and lime into the wine. Toss in the fruit wedges (leaving out seeds if possible) then add agave nectar. Chill overnight. Add sparkling water or club soda, raspberries and ice just before serving. If you’d like to serve right away, use chilled red wine and serve over lots of ice. Regional varietals to try: Chambourcin, Norton Others: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel, Shiraz
Orlandini Vineyard’s Nona’s Sangria Rosso 2 bottles Orlandini Vineyard Reserve Chambourcin (or Rosso Gustoso for more sweetness) 6 ounces frozen juice concentrates: Pineapple, orange, lemonade, limeade
16 ounces chilled club soda Fresh fruit slices for garnish Mix wine and juice concentrates; add chilled club soda and fresh fruit just before serving.
Combine in large pitcher: One bottle of wine with equal quantity of lemon-lime soda and one cup of sweet pineapple juice. Gently stir in sugar and sample until you reach desired sweetness. After sugar is dissolved, add lemon, lime and orange wedges, squeezing each wedge. Makes about two quarts. *Note: Red Sangria will require more sugar than White Sangria, and the sweetness of the wine will also impact how much sugar to add.
Visit www.LifeandStyleSI.com to find more recipes for sangria using locally grown fruit.
Pomona Winery Sangria Fresh or frozen fruit Pomona Strawberry dessert wine (or any Pomona dessert wine) Sprite or 7UP Mix equal parts wine and soda, stir and add fruit.
Von Jakob Jonathan Apple Wine Spritzer 1 bottle of Von Jakob’s Jonathan Apple* 1 cup orange juice 1 cup pineapple juice 8 ounces lemon-lime soda Orange and apple wedges for garnish
Alto Vineyard’s Nona Mia Sangria 1 bottle of Alto’s Nona Mia Sangria 1 can of 7-Up or Sprite Fresh fruit wedges, including oranges, apples, pears, pineapples and lime Mix liquid ingredients. Pour over ice in large pitcher, add fruit, stir and serve.
Mix liquid ingredients. Pour over ice in large pitcher, add fruit, stir and serve. *Note: Jonathan Apple wine can be substituted for Von Jakob’s Honey Raspberry or Ridge Red.
Blue Sky Sangria 1 bottle Blue Sky Seyval (white) or Papa’s Rosa (red) 1½ cup Squirt 1¼ cup lemonade
1¼ cup orange juice ½ cup pineapple juice ½ cup sugar 1/8 cup lime juice
Mix liquid ingredients. Add sugar, and stir until sugar is dissolved. Pour mix over ice in large pitcher; add fruit, stir and serve.
Life & Style : Summer 2013 51
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-ally trendy Big bags are definitely still in style this summer, and it appears they will be for a long time to come. That does not, however, give you permission to carry that hideous, plastic, superstore beach bag with you anywhere — ever. Can you say 1990s? Get rid of it! Instead, warm up your look with one of these fabulous, take-me-everywhere totes. They’ll be by your side on the beach and strutting around your favorite city, day and night! — Rana Daunis
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Life & Style : Summer 2013 53
Aaron Eisenhauer
profile
Mike Carter is the director of Touch of Nature in Carbondale.
Reconnecting with Touch of
Nature New director Mike Carter has big plans for this unique spot
54 Life & Style : Summer 2013
story by Les O’Dell Mike Carter may have found his perfect job. A native of Mattoon, Carter’s varied career experiences include five years of high school teaching, a stint with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources office in Benton, work as a regional supervisor for the Montana-based Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and time as the director of a zoo and botanical garden in Billings, Mont. Today, he serves as director of Touch of Nature, Southern Illinois University’s 3,100-acre environmental center, which includes lodges, cabins, meeting facilities, recreation areas and more, all bordering Giant City State Park, southeast of Carbondale. It’s a role and a place Carter has already come to love. But, he says he has work to do.
What’s the role of Touch of Nature? Not too long ago, Touch of Nature was a very important place and heavily used. It was a hallmark for a variety of core values, including therapeutic recreation, recreation itself and environmental education. It has always been very important for this region, not only the university or the community. I think that, over time, its notoriety and profile has slipped a little bit. We want to restore that image and grow our environmental education program exponentially, and I mean that by that very term. We have the most unique facility that you can find — 3,100 acres, a 1,200-acre lake — with lots of place for people to enjoy, and that’s what I want, for people to come out and enjoy, to reconnect and to use this place to its maximum.
How will you do that? One of the first things I’m going to do is to walk out there and hang a public welcome sign out there, so there won’t be any more driving past, wondering what Touch of Nature is. No more unfamiliarity by students or faculty. There are people who have been around a long time, and they don’t even know about us. We are going to embrace the community and really reconnect with the university, but we are also going to reach out regionally and corporately. I want people to come out and have a picnic or take a hike. We want to get new programs and kids out here. I want to hear kids’ voices every time I go outside — their outside voices. What kind of things will we be seeing at Touch of Nature? We have some things that we are beginning to work on. One of them is a memorial arboretum, where we just planted our first tree. In the fall, a landscape design class will complete designs for us, and there will be a native garden — all places where people can come and enjoy. We’re going to add a sustainable garden and put in a greenhouse to propagate native plants, and I want to involve the art school in designing the front gates and educational areas. I want it to be first class. You mentioned environmental education. Where does that fit in? This is a wonderful place, and this region is missing out on one of the most unique opportunities they’ve ever seen. I want to make sure that they have the experience. I want to make sure that rec and wildlife students from SIU Carbondale, SIU Edwardsville and even those from Southeast Missouri State can have this experience. We’re looking at elder hostel experiences and a water resource education program. I want people in other areas to say that they want their own environmental education programs to be just like the ones at Touch of Nature. I won’t settle for anything less. It will be work, but we have our antennas up and we’re paying attention. We’re going to build this place.
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where we live
Reborn on the
story by Joe Szynkowski photography by Paul Newton
an Bly leisurely strides out onto her screened-in back porch and waves to the passing lake patrol officer. The porch is Bly’s favorite part of her custom-built, waterfront home on Lake of Egypt. The wave is how Bly greets and treats everyone. Jan and her husband, Steve, are congenial and warm, anxious to share stories about their grandchildren, their Kansas upbringings, and the personal meanings behind all of the decorative pieces that fill their home. The Blys lived on nearby Sunset Harbor from 1977 to 1990, then in a traditional brick home in St. Paul, Minn., for 15 years. After retirement – Jan, a pharmacist, and Steve, a manager for a large window company – felt the urge to return closer to family. While searching the lake for a move-in-ready home, they drove upon a wooded 1.4-acre lot nestled
56 Life & Style : Summer 2013
on a scenic point. It was a dream location for a couple who belongs on the water. “We’re lakers,” Steve said. “This is our ocean-front property in Illinois.”
‘The Blyou’
The Blys settled into their new home in 2006. They held a family contest to name the property, and Jan’s brotherin-law from Spokane, Wash., suggested ‘The Blyou.’ The name stuck, and now is engraved on a stone that welcomes visitors at the top of the driveway. “It just seemed to fit perfectly with the water and the natural flow of the land,” Jan said. Bayous are often also associated with wildlife, of which the Blys see plenty. “That hump there belongs to the turtles,” said Jan, pointing to the surprisingly deep water directly off the couple’s boat dock. “There was a Blue Heron who owned the property before we did. He gave us
a lot of chatter and grief. He eventually regrouped and retreated a bit. “The critters own the land. We’re just squatters, and they treat us that way. They come up here and dig around and nest.” At least the Blys have found a solution to the troublesome geese that wrecked havoc on their yard a few years ago. “Someone told us to leave some kind of natural barrier along the edge of your water,” Jan said. “I guess they are afraid of it. It seems to be working.” A look east across the lake reveals a stunning view of Shawnee National Forest. Natural vegetation, large rocks, and hoards of trees combine to form a picturesque peacefulness. The outdoor beauty of the property has enhanced many family adventures and gatherings, including their granddaughter’s 2010 wedding. The Blys have two daughters
After spending 15 long years away from Lake of Egypt, Steve and Jan Bly returned to build their dream home on the waterfront
The waterfront home of Steve and Jan Bly on Lake Of Egypt. Below: The living room, which features numerous windows overlooking the lake.
‘You look around and see nothing but water.’
— Steve Bly
Life & Style : Summer 2013 57
where we live
A large window above the tub in the master bathroom reveals an endless view of the water.
and four grandchildren, all who have helped cultivate lasting memories. Proud of their property, the Blys are members of the Lake of Egypt Association of Property Owners, for which Steve served as president. They continually work toward maintaining their home – Steve spent all last summer re-staining the cedar exterior with a natural-toned latex that gives off more of a rich redwood appearance. “It was a long process,” Steve said. “But it looks great and hopefully it will last a long time.”
‘Amazing Views’
Above: The red ottoman provides a comfortable place to rest near the entrance. Top left: A lakeside hammock helps the Blys take advantage of the best part about living at Lake of Egypt.
58 Life & Style : Summer 2013
The Blys’ son-in-law, Mike Lober, handled general contractor duties for the home, which was painstakingly planned and built stick by stick. Everything from final placement of the house and orientation with the sun was considered. “I am a very detail-oriented person, and I spent a lot of time planning those types of things,” Jan said. “Mike did a great job with the construction, and he had a crew of really talented men.” The Blys also received help from Sheila Baysinger, a local architect who assisted them in overcoming elevation issues between the garage and house. “She created some renderings that so we would have roof lines that worked,” Jan said. Every room inside of the 3,500-footsquare-home offers a view of the lake, except the downstairs guest bathroom. And from the “up north” guest bedroom to the “out west” bathroom, each room also has a theme. “We had a lot of fun coming up with the design of the house
and the different ways to decorate,â&#x20AC;? Jan said. The various decorative themes and changing colors throughout the home provide strategically segmented areas. The living room is large and inviting, with a large flat-screen, a fireplace and a piano. Its hardwood flooring flows into the dining area, lined with windows and more striking views of the lake. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sitting at the table to eat dinner, you kind of get that river cruise feel,â&#x20AC;? Steve said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You look around and see nothing but water.â&#x20AC;? The master bedroom is muted and calm by design. They incorporated heavier blinds than the bamboo ones that dot other areas of the house, in part to help keep the sunlight out and the atmosphere serene. An expansive closet area links the bedroom to the master bathroom, which â&#x20AC;&#x153;offers the most amazing views in the house,â&#x20AC;? Steve said. The large window above the tub exposes the endless blue of the lake, a color complemented by the vivid blue paint on the walls. The laundry room-office provides a functional space, as does the wide-open
The Blys love to cook, and a high-functioning kitchen was a must.
Come See The ALL NEW
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where we live kitchen, complete with a hideaway island that offers seating and eating versatility to a couple that loves to cook. “We eat in a lot,” Jan said.
Personal Touches
The Blys keep many personal items throughout the house, such as family portraits and photos. The ‘ruby red slippers’ are a testament to Jan Bly’s childhood in Kansas; they rest on an inset shelf next to the second level stairway.
60 Life & Style : Summer 2013
‘The Wizard of Oz’ was the first movie Jan saw as a child growing up in Kansas, hence the tiny pair of ruby red slippers that sit on the inset shelf next to the stairway to the home’s second level. Next to the slippers is a glass hot-air balloon piece, while a glance upward reveals a large painting – done by a friend of Jan’s – of sunflowers and a raven. More Kansas connections are peppered throughout the home. “We are proud Kansas University alums,” Jan said. “I’m always looking for ways to incorporate things with Kansas ties.” The Blys’ decorative touches aren’t only linked to the sunflower state, but also to the countless other places, family members and experiences that have shaped their lives together. The contemporary blue glasses hanging above the kitchen countertop were wedding gifts to Jan’s parents. The 1940 pottery piece from Jan’s aunt sits on the kitchen table, and serves as a unique vase for vibrant, fresh-cut flowers. The trinkets from Jan’s grandmother’s drug store gift shop provide vintage charm. The “up north” room is decorated with a Minnesota-southwest style, featuring an antique bed that came from the covered wagon of Jan’s great-great grandparents. The craft room brims with timeless jewelry, family photos, and portraits. The Blys also love to sail and travel, and have taken their adventures to Italy, France, China, Australia and British Columbia. They have also trekked across the country for Steve’s marathons – he has run more than 30. All of their trips are represented throughout their home with photos and decorative pieces. “We have thrown together a lot of strange, eclectic stuff,” Jan said. “I try not to keep it too cluttered, and Steve tolerates it with me very well.” The couple jokes often and enjoys spending time together cooking and dining. Through their travels, they have become interested in the slowfood movement – an innovative approach that incorporates indigenous food products and deliberate eating. The Blys’ screened-in back porch provides a serene, romantic setting for meals both slow and fast, with calming breezes through the no-show screens and a dazzling view of the water. “You get some stars and moonlight,” Steve said. “All ambient noise. The sun-rises, the sunsets are my favorite part. You find that it’s just perfect out here.”
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. e l l i v s i l u l lo looeyvi . l u v a o lo getaways
62 Life & Style : Summer 2013
. e ll
L
ouisville
The sights and sounds of Louisville are vibrant; day or night; and the overlook of the Ohio River makes for a scenic view.
No matter how you say it, this Kentucky city is vibrant
story and photography by Adam Testa additional photography provided by Louisville Convention and Visitors Bureau
ooavul. Looeyville. Louisville. The way you pronounce this Kentucky city’s name likely depends on where you hail from, or possibly how much of the region’s most notable commodity you’ve consumed. But, no matter how you pronounce it — and don’t worry, the locals don’t even do it consistently — Louisville can be a destination city for just about anyone. Known for horse racing and bourbon, Louisville’s diverse cultural offering expands far beyond the confines of those two elements to create a vibrant blend of attractions and shops, sights and sounds. Downtown Louisville offers the perfect spot to start any journey into the city. Unsure where to begin? One can never go wrong with Fourth Street. This thoroughfare will bring guests from the riverfront to the renowned
Galt House Hotel, and beyond, into the heart of the city. Fourth Street Live, a bustling shopping and dining district, offers a peaceful area to explore during the day and a lively social environment once the sun goes down. Branch off Fourth Street onto Main Street and discover the wonders of downtown Louisville. To one direction is the KFC Yum! Center, a top-class entertainment venue built in 2010 that’s also home to the University of Louisville basketball team. To the other is Museum Row, the appropriately named downtown district housing a number of attractions, each focused on a specialized aspect of life and the arts. Science, history, sports and culture all call this stretch of road home.
The greatest of all time
Among the notable destinations is a venue honoring one of the city’s most notable natives: Muhammad Ali. The boxing great and his wife
Life & Style : Summer 2013 63
getaways
Many activites can be found along Main Street, affectionately known as Museum Row. Along this stretch of road, guests will find museums and galleries dedicated to everything from Louisville Slugger baseball bats (left) to science, history and the arts. Elevated, covered walkways (above right) connect much of the downtown area, creating easy access to many different attractions.
both hailed from Louisville and desired for any center or museum built in his honor to be constructed in his hometown, despite offers and proposals from much larger cities. The former Cassius Clay also had a specific vision in mind for what he wanted the venue to provide. Opened in 2005, the Muhammad Ali Center strives to fulfill that vision. “He didn’t want it to be a museum. It was designed to be a place that would carry on Muhammad’s legacy and improve the lives of young people,” said Jeanie Kahnke, vice president of communications. “It’s a very moving, inspirational experience. It’s not about boxing; the messages are more about character than anything else.” The three floors of the Ali Center are filled with exhibits appealing to children and adults, men and women, boxing fans and those who know nothing about the sport. Visitors can see the torch Ali carried in the 1996 Olympics, a robe given
64 Life & Style : Summer 2013
to him by Elvis Presley, Ali’s own drawings and poetry and more. They’ll also learn about Ali’s spiritual journey and his philosophies on life and the most important elements of character in children. Take a look beyond the surface and learn what drove Clay to become Ali and helped inspire his legacy. Guests can also step into Ali’s shoes, or those of his opponents, with interactive displays. Step up and punch a heavy bag or speed bag, or shadowbox with Ali himself. Pay tribute to one of the all-time greatest athletes, while also learning life lessons. “Because Muhammad Ali is one of the most recognized men in the world, people want to stop in and learn more,” Kahnke said.
Peanuts and Cracker Jacks
Walk down the street and discover another of the city’s famed sports connections, as well as one of the most photographed sites in Louisville — the giant baseball bat outside the Louisville Slugger factory and museum.
The museum opened in 1996 and has attracted more than 3 million visitors. But, even when the museum isn’t open, people are still stopping by. “The big bat out front has really become an icon for the city and the region,” said Executive Director Anne Jewell. “It’s nonstop action out there around the clock.” The museum features exhibits celebrating the official bat of Major League Baseball and the men, from Babe Ruth to Ken Griffey Jr., who have wielded Louisville Sluggers through the eras. The main attraction isn’t the museum itself, however; it’s the opportunity to tour the actual factory where each and every Louisville Slugger bat is produced. The tour educates guests on how the process has changed through the generations, from each bat being hand-crafted to the mass production techniques used today. Visitors will learn how each contracted player has his own signature template for his bats, and at the end of the tour, they’ll have the opportunity to visit the batting
Louisville’s downtown represents the past, present and future of the city. The KFC Yum! Center (left) was built in 2010 and has allowed the city to play host to major concert and event tours. It is also the home of the NCAA men’s basketball championship team, the Louisville Cardinals. Other sites pay homage to history, from medieval times to more recent exhibits, as well as sports, including one of the city’s most notable native sons, Muhammad Ali.
cages and try their own hand with some of the bats used by the sport’s all-time greats. There are souvenirs, too. Each person who completes the tour receives a small, collectible Louisville slugger bat, as well as a knob of wood cut from the top of a bat as it moved through production. “You don’t have to be a baseball fan to have a good time here. People find things to connect with here when they maybe didn’t expect to,” Jewell said. “We feel like we are one of the unique places in town. You’re not going to find a Louisville Slugger factory and museum anywhere else in the world.” During baseball season, visitors can also head to Louisville Slugger Field, home of the Louisville Bats, the AAA affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds, to catch the game and see tomorrow’s major league stars using today’s leading bat for themselves.
Meet me on Main
Each venue dotting Main Street is but a cog in the greater wheel of Museum Row. While the Ali Center and the Louisville
Slugger museum offer the greatest name recognition, there are countless other secrets and gems waiting to be discovered. “We’re just part of that mix of diverse interests and offerings,” Jewell said. “We embrace our history, but we try to stay cool and hip on things, too.” No two attractions along Museum Row illustrate Jewell’s comments more than Frazier History Museum and 21c Museum Hotel. The former, the exclusive home to Royal Armouries USA, brings more than a millennium of history to life. Statutory and interactive displays spread across multiple levels take visitors on a journey through time, with current exhibits focused on warfare and weaponry through the ages. Two blocks down the street is perhaps the most modern of Louisville’s cultural sites, 21c Museum Hotel, an operational lodging facility that also houses North America’s first museum dedicated to contemporary art of the 21st century. The galleries are open around the clock and
free to the public to explore. The rooms themselves also feature art décor, but require a reservation to see firsthand. Other stops along Museum Row include Glassworks, a studio and exhibit space dedicated to the art of glass-blowing; Kentucky Science Center, providing educational fun for the whole family; Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft, housing and celebrating traditional and functional art; and Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts, which also includes a free-to-visit collection of artwork. It’s entirely feasible that a visitor to Louisville could spend a few days in the city without ever leaving the branching streets of Fourth and Main. But, while possible, a visit like that limits guests from experiencing the rest of what Louisville has to offer.
In the neighborhood
While downtown Louisville offers a diverse array of activity options, a trip to the city wouldn’t be complete without adventuring to other parts of town.
Life & Style : Summer 2013 65
getaways Like many other old cities, Louisville is comprised of a number of distinct neighborhoods, some with histories dating back more than a century. A visit to Old Louisville is like a step back in time, as the neighbor features nearly 48 city blocks of Victorian-era homes. The Highlands come alive with the hustle and bustle of specialty shops and restaurants. NuLu, one of the city’s progressive neighborhoods, is enjoying a rebirth and earning a reputation as a destination for a younger, artsy crowd. Those are but a few of the many neighborhoods surrounding Louisville, even expanding into Southern Indiana, or “Louisville North,” as it’s sometimes known. Each part of the city has its own distinct character and charm, and the only way to discover them is to hit the streets and explore. Be sure to take the time to visit some of Louisville’s city parks, recognized as one of the city’s treasures. The park system was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, who also designed New York’s Central Park. Elaborate fountains and decorative items complement the luscious trees and landscapes of several parks throughout the city. No matter which neighborhood visitors choose, or which attractions they stop by, there’s always something to do in Louisville — no matter how you pronounce it.
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While Louisville is known for horse racing and bourbon, the city offers guests a number of other experiences and opportunities. The park district, including the landscape above, was designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, who also designed New Yorkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Central Park. There are many places throughout the city to enjoy a picnic or stroll in the park, taking in the natural beauty and scenery of the region. During warm seasons, visitors can also take a ride on the Belle of Louisville, which will celebrate its 100th year in operation in 2014. Cruises, dinners and entertainment are available on the boat, depending on the weather and water levels. She cruises the Ohio River from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The Louisville Zoo is another popular attraction, featuring animals from around the world. One of the most popular attractions is the zooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arctic exhibit, which includes polar bears (right) and other creatures from the far north.
Life & Style : Summer 2013 67
getaways
Louisville is home to distilleries of all sizes, from small local operations to Jim Beam, the largest bourbon producer in the United States. The picture in the middle shows a wall in the Beam distillery. Looking at it with human eyes, guests only see the collage of pictures. Looking through the mirror of a digital lens exposes the face of one of the company’s forefathers.
‘Bourbon Country’ story by Adam Testa If you’ve ever enjoyed a glass of bourbon, whether at the bar or from a store, chances are it came from Kentucky. Rumors say there are more full barrels of bourbon in Kentucky warehouses than people residing within its borders. While that’s hard to quantify, statistics don’t lie. Ninety-five percent of the nation’s bourbon is produced in Kentucky. Of that, Jim Beam can claim 50 percent. Finding the Jim Beam American Stillhouse complex — or any other tourable bourbon distillery, for that matter — requires visitors to venture outside of the city limits of Louisville. But, for those with a thirst for insight into the industry, invaluable experiences await. Louisville prides itself on its reputation as the “Gateway to Bourbon Country,” and it’s a well-deserved moniker. The city’s streets allow access to distilleries of all sizes, from small operations to a powerhouse like Jim Beam, each showcasing its own styles and processes. The Jim Beam property allows guests the chance to explore an expansive complex, featuring the old-time distiller’s home, a functioning warehouse, the
68 Life & Style : Summer 2013
operating distilling and bottling facility and, a fan favorite, the tasting room. But, take the tour and you’ll find yourself more than observing; you’ll be participating. Various stops along the tour route allow patrons the chance to experience the bourbon making and sampling process firsthand. “We’ve got it figured out,” said guide Selena Greenwell. “We charge you to go on the tour, and then we put you to work.” The tour will enlighten participants on the evolution of bourbon making, from the earliest roots of Jim Beam in the mid-1930s to today’s worldwide operation. To put things into perspective, it took the company three decades, from 1935 to 1965, to produce its first million barrels. Today, 1 million barrels are produced every three years. You’ll see the bottling area, the quality management process and the storage setup as you tour one of the more than 20 warehouses on the property, which houses 1.8 million barrels of bourbon at any given time. But, don’t expect to learn everything there is to know. There are some aspects of the business that will remain shrouded
Distilleries of all sizes showcase this drink’s signature style
in mystery. “They won’t tell me how they do it,” Greenwell said. “My name’s not Beam.” For many people, the best part of the tour is the end, and it’s not because the experience is over. As the tour comes to a close, patrons are invited into the tasting barn, where Jim Beam’s full line of products is available for sampling — in reasonable quantities, of course. Branch out from the Jim Beam location and discover a plethora of other bourbon distilleries and sites to visit. Pick up an Urban Bourbon Trail Passport or download the respective app on your smartphone and begin a journey across the Kentucky landscape, getting stamped at different locales and watering holes. The free program not only awards participants with T-shirts and other prizes for supporting local businesses, but also puts an easy-to-use resource complete with maps, hours of operation, suggested cocktails and more in their hands. No trip to Louisville is complete without exploring and experiencing Kentucky’s most notable export.
Bet on it!
Yes, it’s home to the Kentucky Derby, but, there’s plenty of opportunity to check out more of Kentucky’s best horse racing luxury boxes known as Millionaire’s Row to Being the youngest child in his family the grandstands to the had its advantages for Barry Northern. infield, where 80,000 When his brothers left for school in people fill in. the morning, his mother would take her “Ninety percent of youngest son to the horse track.The young those in the infield child watched the horses in amazement. never see a horse all day, This experience lead up to one special but they couldn’t care The first weekend in May attracts more than 140,000 guests to Churchill day, the first Saturday in May 1973, when Downs for the Kentucky Derby. The grandstands are capable of holding less,” Northern said. 60,000, while the infield holds about 80,000. a 16-year-old Northern made the trip to The stands at Churchill Downs for his first Kentucky Churchill Downs hold Derby. That evening, he witnessed history 52,000 people, but on as Secretariat set a Derby record. The The Kentucky Derby Museum, located Derby Day, there are horse would go on to become the first to on site, is open year ’round. Admission usually upwards of 60,000 filling them. win the Triple Crown for the first time in includes a walking tour of the facility and Having that many people on the grounds 25 years. “The Greatest Race,” a 360-degree film means big money. More than $24 million Northern was captivated, and he’s been experience bringing the Derby to life on — all in cash — was bet on site on Derby attending the Derby ever since. the big screen. Day last year. “We don’t have pro sports out here like Also available is an tour of the backside Serious fans can also head to the Downs a lot of cities,” said Northern, now a tour of the Downs, where more than 1,400 a day early for the Kentucky Oaks, which guide at the Kentucky Derby Museum stalls in nearly 50 barns house horses features exclusively 3-year old female at Churchill Downs. “This is our major during race season and throughout the rest horses. Since the advent of the Oaks, sport. We’re a college sports town, but this trainers and owners have been less likely of the year. Guests will learn about the means a whole lot to us, too.” community that exists behind the scenes to enter females into the Derby, where The first weekend in May has become for people who tend for and train the they face tough competition from the the capstone to a much longer festival. resident horses. males. The spirit of the Derby permeates the This year, 2009 Derby winner Mine While the thrill of the races and city’s streets weeks before the race, as That Bird, who overcame 50:1 odds to emotion of betting on a long-shot draw events such as the Kentucky Derby win America’s most prestigious race, many to the Derby, the atmosphere and Festival play out and build excitement. became the first Derby winner to make a experience makes Churchill Downs an Thunder Over Louisville, a mid-April permanent residence at Churchill Downs. inviting place for all during the first fireworks show, acts as the festival’s official weekend in May. And, there’s racing outside the Derby, as launch. well. Seasons run from May through June “You don’t have to know horse racing to Derby Day takes excitement and and October through November. While have fun on Derby Day,” Northern said. activity to an entirely different level. these races don’t carry the prestige of the Derby weekend may be the most Thousands flock to Churchill Downs, Derby or Oaks, they offer an affordable exciting, but it’s not the only time visitors filling the stadium — from high-price option for people who want to experience can have a good time at the Downs. horse racing at Churchill Downs. A seat in the upper-deck boxes costs about $35 and includes an all-day buffet. If you’re not up for the crowds of Derby Day, Compared with the $40 general admission the regular racing season is May and June, price for Derby Day, it makes for an affordable option. and October and November. It will cost a lot But, even for Derby enthusiasts, a less, too. A seat in the upper-deck boxes is general admission ticket to the biggest about $35 and includes an all-day buffet. race of the year isn’t out of line, Northern adds. “When you start thinking about what it Queen Elizabeth II of England visited Louisville for the Kentucky costs to go to an NFL or NBA game,” he Derby in 2007. The hat she wore for the day remains on display at said, “I think that’s a pretty good deal.” the Kentucky Derby Museum, on site at Churchill Downs. story by Adam Testa
Life & Style : Summer 2013 69
artists
Photographer
Kris Killman story by Joe Szynkowski Kris Killman is a man of two vastly varied sides. Following in the footsteps of his father, the Marion native worked a grueling 20 years in federal law enforcement at the U.S. Penitentiary. Focused and forceful, Killman plowed through what he calls “the belly of the beast” and retired in 2008, young enough to still enjoy his other side: Artist. A creative mind and advanced photography skills have aided in Killman’s ability to capture some of the most adventurous sites in Southern Illinois. He leads photo treks across the region — and the country. He paints expansive murals. He mentors novice photographers in digital techniques. He simply creates. Killman was one of the original 20 members who started Little Egypt Arts Association in Marion. He has served as the organization’s president, vice president and secretary, and was instrumental in launching the LEAA’s Artistic Lens Photographic Society. His work is often featured throughout Southern Illinois galleries and displays; and, his personality, engaging and adventurous, shines through in every piece.
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Personality, purpose and pursuit of perfection
How would you describe your photography style? My photography started in earnest in 1990 and has been heavily influenced by my desire to paint images from around the Southern Illinois region…. In my last photography show, I displayed photo art, altered photos, straight photography, and it ranged from wildlife, architecture, landscapes and portrait work. I just want the work to continue being creative, playful and high-quality. What type of photography equipment do you use? I photograph with Canon digital SLR cameras. I primarily use the 7D, but have a couple back-up cameras for the photo treks we go on. The lenses range anywhere from a 50-500 Sigma for wildlife images to 17-70 wide angle and a few lenses in between. The only external lighting I have ever used is an external Canon flash. I have used a Better Beamer on occasion. From where or whom do you find inspiration? Ansel Adams has been a great source of inspiration. Dave Brewer is one of the top bird photographers in the region, if not the country. He has inspired me to look at the natural world in new ways,
‘We’ve all heard the saying, “The sky’s the limit.” I find myself pushing beyond that and photographing the moon.’ — Kris Killman, photographer
more than anyone. Rene F. Degroof taught me all kinds of tricks to using a Canon, especially at the drag strip. Steve McLaughlin. He’s the Photoshop guru in Southern Illinois. He’s also an outstanding photographer and great friend. The inspiration can come from anywhere in the natural world. A light beam coming in the living room window striking our granddaughter just right. Inspiration is all around us. The good photographers are always looking for that sweet light. It usually comes early morning and late evening. Inspiration often comes attached to that light. How do you improve your craft? First rule of thumb: Read the camera manual. Sounds simple, but most people
don’t do it. Second, take lots of images and get to know your camera. There are a number of ways a budding photographer can quickly improve their photography. Seminars, joining a camera club, signing up for photography magazine subscriptions. I thought, since we had a building already at LEAA, that a camera club would be a great addition. We hold meetings there, have presenters talk about their photography. We learn about new software to better your images in post processing. Joining a camera club like ALPS is a great way to learn digital photography. What is your favorite shot and what is the story behind it? There is no way I could pick my favorite photograph. That changes often as I make new images. I could give you some favorites in categories. The best shot of my granddaughter is an easy one: The light beam flooding into the living room through the bay window, lighting up her face, a few months ago. I got some amazing landscape images while babysitting bull dozers at a strip mine, and I’d have to say that would have to be one of the most unlikely places one would think about getting beautiful photos, but that’s exactly what happened. I photographed Northern
Harriers, some amazing dragonfly images, bobcats, rabbits, deer and more. Then, I started photographing the equipment, playing with those images in Photoshop, and turning them into photo art. The sunrises and sunsets were amazing. What has been the key to being able to successfully produce quality photography for as long as you have? I think one of the keys to producing quality images over the long haul is the ability to keep an open mind about subject matter. I can find inspiration all around me. Having changing seasons here in Southern Illinois helps because everything looks different, four times a year. Passing on the information I’ve learned is also key to staying involved over the long haul. Pass it forward.
Provided by Kris Killman
Opposite: Kris Killman stands outside Little Egypt Arts Association on the square in Marion. Member artists created the exterior wall murals.
Provided by Kris Killman
A couple of examples of Killman’s nature photography include this water traveler and waterfowl in flight.
Life & Style : Summer 2013 71
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Gail Kloepping of Metropolis picks up litter during during a recent hunt in Benton.
Searching for Like pirates scouring a treasure map, users are drawn to geocaching story by Les O’Dell You never know what you might find — or even if you will find it — when you go geocaching, a technologically assisted outdoor activity that is growing in popularity in Southern Illinois and around the world. Part follow the leader, part hike and part hide-andseek, geocaching is a free, real-world outdoor treasure hunt in which players try to locate hidden containers called geocaches by using a smartphone or global positioning satellite receiver. Participants then can share their experiences online, according to geocaching. com, the activity’s online hub. “It’s like a worldwide Easter egg hunt,” says Chuck Meyer, a frequent geocache hunter. Meyer, who owns homes both in upstate Monee and at Lake of Egypt, has been a geocacher
for more than a dozen years. He has a lot to search for. There are more than 2 million geocaches hidden around the globe — thousands of them within a 100-mile radius of Marion. Each cache is unique, but they are all hidden — some in plain sight, others requiring some serious searching to locate. They can range from small, like plastic containers for 35 millimeter film cartridges, to others as large as a brief case. They are all out there, just waiting to be found. Like pirates scouring a treasure map, users at the geocaching.com website enter a ZIP code and are given a list of caches in the area, complete with GPS coordinates — latitude and longitude — of the targets. Then, it’s up to the individuals to find what someone else has left to be discovered. Once found, geocachers record their discovery online and sometimes trade out small treasures they find.
Life & Style : Summer 2013 73
tech
A tiny geocache container (right) hangs from a tree branch outside Benton. A cache usually contains multiple objects along with a logbook.
“People will put logbooks where you can make a note in them or they’ll put in trinkets and other odd things like marbles, patches or pins,” explains Geocacher Chuck Cockrum of West City. “Anything that says, ‘Hey, I was here,’ is perfect.” Cockrum says many encourage “GeoSwag,” the process of taking an item from the cache and replacing it with something of equal value. He says that some particular caches contain what is called a travel bug — an item specifically designed to be removed from one geocache and placed in another one. The idea is to track how far the item travels through records on the website. Regardless of the find, geocachers are invited to post descriptions of their adventures and findings online. Meyer says the sport first began when handheld GPS units hit the consumer market. With the proliferation of smartphones, geocaching really took off. “It used to be that you had to purchase a handheld GPS for sports and spend $100 or more,” he says. “Today, with smartphone apps, it’s really exploded.” He says most automobile GPS units do not work especially well for geocaching. “Although they’re using the same latitude and longitude, they’re also tied to
74 Life & Style : Summer 2013
road maps, so they’re just not suitable,” he explains.
The hunt
While handheld GPS units and geocachingspecific applications are needed for the hunting process, the apps do not necessarily find the treasures for you. “The GPS always gives you straight-line distance, but it doesn’t tell you much more than that,” Meyer says. “Hiking trails are always convoluted and all over the place. You might start looking for one and find that, straight, it’s only 14 miles away and you can get close with your car, but then find it’s on a hiking trail or on the other side of a lake. You might be half a mile away, but may have to hike nearly a mile to get to it.” He adds that even though GPS readings can get searchers within a few feet of the cache, there still is some effort required in getting to the spot and then finding the cache, once there. That, Cockrum says, is part of the draw of geocaching. “The appeal for us was that our children enjoyed the hikes as much as we did,
and there’s an anticipation of finding the treasure.” He says the geocaching.com website always shows the degree of difficulty in getting to (and finding) the target. “It’s a sport for all ages,” he says. “There are caches for all levels of experience and fitness.” He adds some are even designed to be found by individuals in wheelchairs and some are specifically for children, while others can be tougher, blending in with their surroundings. “There are some caches in the middle of towns,” he says. “They can be disguised as a lot of different things. I’ve hidden one that looks like conduit on a maintenance building. Some look like bolts, and
there are some that look like hide-a-key containers or sprinkler heads.” Others can be found in parks and recreational areas. Regardless of the placement of the cache, both Cockrum and Meyer say one of the tenets of geocaching is to be respectful of private property and of nature itself. “At first the Department of Natural Resources was opposed to this type of thing, because it was taking people off of the groomed hiking trails,” Meyer says. “However, what they found was that the people who do this are nature lovers and we strive to leave only footprints behind. They’ve found that we’re bringing in more people, and that’s what they are all about.” Ferne Clyffe State Park Site Superintendent Bill Reynolds says geocachers need to have permission before hiding a container on state property. Personally, he is a fan of activities like geocaching. “Anything that is compatible with what IDNR is doing and gets people outside is a good thing, in my opinion,” he says.
Finding new fans
Cockrum says his first experience with geocaching was simply a case of curiosity. “I happened to be doing some service at a home, and at the back of the property there was a large ditch and culvert. I saw a container among the rocks. I picked it up and it said ‘official geocache’ on it. When I got home, I looked it up on the Internet and I’ve been hooked ever since.” Cockrum is a real advocate for geocaching. He established a Facebook page for Southern Illinois geocachers and always is trying to recruit new devotees to join the more than 5 million participants worldwide. “When you think about it, that’s less than 1 percent of people, so I try to get more people involved, especially here,” he says. “There are some beautiful places to explore.” Meyer says he enjoys exposing new people to the sport. “If you’re going on a hike with friends that are visiting, it’s a blast to expose them to geocaching,” he says.
Getting started
Everything begins with the geocaching. com website, Cockrum says. “First thing is to go to the website,” he explains. “There’s a lot of great information on the site. I’d suggest you do lots of reading. Learn the slang and what you should and shouldn’t do. There’s a certain etiquette you need to learn and follow.” He also recommends the geocaching application for phones. “If you have a smartphone, get the app for $10. If you are a geek and love the outdoors, it will be the best $10 you ever spent,” he says. “You can log on and post right from your phone. The app makes it so much easier.” Most of all, Cockrum suggests making the first hunt one with someone who has gone before, and he recommends expecting conditions of all kinds. “People should be aware that in the great outdoors, you do encounter pests and snakes, so you have to plan accordingly. Always be respectful of landowners and other people’s caches,” he says.
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Life & Style : Summer 2013 75
decor
Will you go bold and colorful, or calm and neutral?
D
ĂŠcor ecisions
story by Waylan Sims Your home is a reflection of you, who you are, your style. Without that imprint, your home is simply a box of stuff. What will be seen at the spring furniture market in North Carolina, and what is accepted by the thousands of buyers, will determine what the new colors, patterns, finishes and styles will be. Some experts predict bold colors will be everywhere this spring, and that this year will be bold and beautiful. Others expect a more neutral palate, which will give way to a more soothing environment. A safe way to approach both of these styles would be to use a neutral approach for major pieces of furniture and accent them with bright or bold toss cushions and colorful throws that will also be functional accents to a room. Happiest homes are homes that reflect the personality of the homeowner. You can re-invent your home with a change in your wall color, as well as a coordinating color for your ceiling. Accent pieces of furniture can be added that are offered in an array of different finishes and colors. A softer color pallet laden with texture is a great way to warm up close quarters into a homey and inviting environment. There are many ways to update any room in your home. Choose your style, be creative and enjoy your home! Waylan Sims is an interior decorator and owner of Distinctive Interiors in Marion.
Right: Adding a bold accent color to a neutral couch is a way to add a bold accent color that creates a new, inviting look. The wall color and coordinating ceiling color are neutral in tone to enhance paintings, furniture and accessories.
76 Life & Style : Summer 2013
Provided
Above: This family room in an upscale home reflects the style and personality of the owners. Accent pieces of furniture in different patterns and textures were added to create a homey environment for the family.
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cheers to beer
Amanda Atchley pours a pint of beer for a visitor at Big Muddy Brewery in Murphysboro.
craft discover local beers Venture out to
story by Shawn Connelly When it comes to beer, people tend to be rather brand loyal. I remember a tasting I hosted a year or so ago, where we offered a blind sample of five of the most popular light beers and asked participants to pick their brand from the five by taste, smell and appearance alone. Although each of the participants went in to the exercise with the utmost confidence in their ability to pick their brand, none of them was successful. The truth is that most people are loyal to a beer — or to most anything, really — for subjective reasons. Objective attributes such as flavor, aroma and color don’t play as big a part in loyalties as do subjective attachments like familiarity, commonality and what I call “legacy.” It’s the classic “That’s what I’ve always drunk” response. People are reluctant to venture outside their comfort zones and try new things without good reason or provocation. Southern Illinoisans can no longer claim there is no good reason to try something new when it comes to beer. New craft breweries like Kaskaskia Brewing in Red Bud, Little Egypt Brewery in Ava and Scratch Brewing Company in Ava have opened within the last year,
78 Life & Style : Summer 2013
and each is offering a wide range of beers in a beautiful and local setting. Local favorites on the Shawnee Wine Trail, Von Jakob Winery and Brewery in Alto Pass is still making their own beer, and Big Muddy Brewing, the first production brewery in Murphysboro since Prohibition, is growing fast and offering popular weekend brewery tours where visitors can sample an array of beers and learn a little something about the brewing process while they’re at it. I’ve always believed the more you know about something, the more you appreciate it. Stepping out of the norm and trying a craft beer adventure in Southern Illinois just might be the ticket to a new interest and maybe a new loyalty or two. Most craft beer venues offer sampler flights — small pours of each beer designed to allow you to try a taste of everything without committing to something you may not like. Once you get a feel for what’s available, you can narrow your choices according to your palate. There’s no right or wrong choice. It’s OK if you don’t like “dark beer,” for example. If you’re a light beer drinker, you might sample Big Muddy’s Kinkaid Wheat or Scratch’s Spring Session Ale. Both are brewed to be highly drinkable, user-friendly and
“light” while maintaining the quality flavor craft beer is known for. Need further provocation? Remember that craft beer is inherently adventurous and always interesting. If you have tried craft beers and didn’t like them, keep trying; these local artisans are always offering something new to appeal to diverse and discriminating palates. Drinking the same beer all the time is fine, but it’s like listening to the same song over and over, day after day. As good as you might have thought it was, eventually it will become indistinguishable, and whatever you liked about it will be lost. It kind of reminds me of my participants in the light beer tasting experiment I conducted. Friends don’t let friends drink boring beer.
Most craft beer venues offer sampler flights — small pours of each beer designed to allow you to try a taste of everything without committing to something you might not like.
SHAWN CONNELLY writes for Beer Connoisseur magazine and is a craft and specialty beer retail consultant and an award-winning home brewer. Read his blog at beerphilosopher.com.
Ryan Tockstein, one of the owners at Scratch Brewing Company, assists customers at the brewery in Ava.
Craft Breweries Big Muddy Brewing 1430 North 7th St., Murphysboro Kaskaskia Brewing 105 East Market St., Red Bud Little Egypt Brewery 140 Buttermilk Hill Road, Ava Scratch Brewing Company 264 Thompson Road, Ava Von Jakob Brewery 230 Illinois 127, Alto Pass
Life & Style : Summer 2013 79
good eats
Worth the ARE YOU LOOKING TO Build your confidence? Grow as a leader? Improve your communication & public speaking skills?
Wait
Three Southern Illinois barbecue enthusiasts share their slow-cooking wisdom
story by Jerry Bradley
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80 Life & Style : Summer 2013
Slow-cooking enthusiasts are like the alchemists of yore. They experiment with heat and steam, rubs and sauces until they turn that inanimate slab of animal protein into a tender, juicy, savory ingot of mouth-watering gold for the taste buds. Sidney Logwood took his backyard, slow-cooking skills to a professional level and opened Southern Que Restaurant in Carbondale. The beauty of slow cooking is that it just takes practice and persistence. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a â&#x20AC;&#x153;standardâ&#x20AC;? red sauce with pork. For require a massive investment of money beef, his favorite is Henry Bain, a sauce for a fancy smoker, either. As a bonus, that originated in Louisville, Ky. When you can use your friends and family as it comes to rubs, Deutsch said that after culinary guinea pigs. years and years of tinkering, heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;gone â&#x20AC;&#x153;Practice makes perfect,â&#x20AC;? said Rick back to nothing more than kosher salt, Deutsch, a professor of anthropology at celery salt and black pepper.â&#x20AC;? John A. Logan College in Carterville. A key consideration, according to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Be patient, experiment and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be Deutsch, is preparing the meat properly. intimidated.â&#x20AC;? He begins by curing a pork shoulder, Deutsch should know. He has been an butt or beef brisket in the refrigerator avid slow-cooking devotee for more than for a day or two. He then waits until the 20 years and has earned a Carbondale meat gets to room temperature before Main Street Pig Out trophy. putting it in the cooker. Deutsch smokes with only wood, Once the meat gets going, Deutsch though he employs charcoal â&#x20AC;&#x153;in a has this advice. pinch.â&#x20AC;? He usually buys bags of wood, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Just make sure the temperature and but, on occasion, uses chips culled from the smoke is OK,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t open his rural home in Murphysboro, which up the lid too often. A pan of fluid has plenty of hardwood available. White underneath the grill with water, apple oak and hickory work well, but apple is juice or beer will help to keep the meat his top wood-chip choice. moist.â&#x20AC;? He prefers to make his own sauce, Sidney Logwood is a prime example of depending on the meat. Deutsch uses a slow cooker, who took his skills from
the backyard and channeled them into a local business. He brought his passion for pork shoulder, ribs and brisket to Southern Illinois when he came to serve as the reverend at Rock Hill Baptist Church in Carbondale. His barbecue was so well-received by the Carbondale community that most everyone, it seemed, encouraged him to start his own restaurant. “When I was called to Rock Hill, we would barbecue and make spaghetti. People kept telling me that I need to go into business,” he said. With such encouragement, Logwood opened Southern Que restaurant on Grand Avenue, where it’s currently located, with his wife Hope in 2008. “Barbecue is all about the smoke and heat,” he said. Logwood likes hickory chips for smoke, yet prefers apple. A consummate experimenter, he did give peach wood a shot, since Southern Illinois is so famous for its peaches. But, that didn’t work out so well according to Logwood, saying that it made the meat dark and didn’t enhance the taste. He inherited his smoking chops from his grandfather in Arkansas and honed them in Chicago with his family and congregation, all of whom helped Logwood in his quest for the gold-standard barbecue sauce. “I knew the taste I was looking for was both sweet and tangy,” he said. “I stumbled on it many years ago in the north side of Chicago when I had some ribs with this great sauce.”
‘There’s no substitute for slow cooking.’ — Dennis McCord, owner of Campus Comics
Logwood sought to duplicate this unique taste experience with the assistance of his cousin George Coleman, who owns Coleman’s BBQ on Chicago’s west side. Consequently, his cousin developed a sauce with Logwood’s encouragement. “But, he wouldn’t give up the recipe,” Logwood said. Undaunted, Logwood, along with his family and congregation, would get together almost every Sunday in Chicago to test his own sauce variations. Yet, consensus did not come easily or rapidly. “After a while, it just got so confusing that we just picked the one we liked best,” he said, referring to his immediate family. The rest is barbecue history for the Logwood family and Southern Illinois. Dennis McCord owns Campus Comics in Carbondale. His first encounter with slow cooking came about eight years ago via Carbondale Main Street Pig Out, where brisket and pork shoulders often dominated the scene. “I picked chicken, thinking that it would be easier,” he said, laughing.
“The other guys were so good; I must have cooked 15 chickens to practice.” The practice paid off and McCord landed a vaunted Pig Out trophy. He prefers smoking a whole bird, which he’ll wash down, pat dry and inject with a marinade that he gets at Walmart. When it comes to rubs, he likes 17th Street BBQ, but isn’t afraid to tweak the formula. “I’ll try whatever looks good in the cabinet,” he said. “Maybe some cayenne or maybe something else.” McCord’s heat and smoke formula begins with standard charcoal briquettes, such as Kingsford. Then, he’ll add wood chips like hickory, apple or cherry, but likes hickory the best. For moisture, he puts a pan of seasoned water on top of the coals and wood. “It just adds some steam as it’s cooking and keeps a little more moisture in the chicken,” he said. Near the third hour, McCord may add a bit more charcoal if the temperature dips too low. He waits until the last 20 minutes before swabbing the squab with a healthy dose Cairo BBQ Sauce, which he gets at Arnold’s Market in Carbondale. He has experimented with his own sauces in the past, “but they didn’t turn out as good as Cairo’s.” McCord has also experimented with trying to cook chicken more quickly — in an hour, for example — but it never turned out the same as a nice slow cook using wood smoke and steam.
One to try This recipe comes from Rick Deutsch’s grandfather and is from the 1930s. Henry Bain was a member of Louisville’s Pendennis Club in that era, and this concoction was used by the club’s chef with brisket. Rick substitutes the chutney with a bottle of Buffalo Chipotle Sauce and calls it Ricky’s Meat Sauce!
Henry Bain Meat Sauce 1 12-ounce bottle Heinz Chili Sauce 1 14-ounce bottle catsup 1 11-ounce bottle A-1 Steak Sauce 1 10-ounce bottle Worcestershire
1 8-ounce bottle Chutney ¼ bottle Tabasco or hot sauce ½ onion, ground ¼ cup vinegar
If chutney is in large pieces, do a fine chop on it. Mix ingredients well and use with brisket as you would any other sauce.
Life & Style : Summer 2013 81
lens envy
Making moments count at
sunset
Imagine a young couple, coming together for the first time, looking out over the vast landscape as the sun sets in the sky above. How many times has Hollywood portrayed this scene? There’s a reason. You’d be hard pressed to find anything in nature as beautiful and captivating as the sun’s final rays of the evening. But, despite the norms set forth by Hollywood, you don’t have to travel to a sandy beach or the peaks of the Rockies to find a sunset worthy of your attention. There are many sites in Southern Illinois offering that special view, if you catch it at precisely the right moment. — photography by Judy Winkeler, Aaron Eisenhauer and The Southern
1
2 3
82 Life & Style : Summer 2013
4
5
1. The sun sets over the World Shooting and Recreational Complex on the final night of the SI Country Fest in Sparta. 2. The Grand Theatre is lit up at sunset in Du Quoin. 3. A great blue heron is shown at sunset at Mermet Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area. 4. The sun sets behind the Bald Knob Cross of Peace in Alto Pass. 5. The last minutes of sunset illuminate a thunderhead behind the outfield lights at Rent One Park during the Minersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; game against the Slammers in Marion.
Life & Style : Summer 2013 83
entreprenuer
oonshine Mgoes upscale
Unique micro-distillery is bottling spirits and success story by Les O’Dell
Nestled in the hills and woods just west of Carbondale is a still, but it’s probably not what you picture. This machine is not a cobbled-together contraption of salvaged pipes and sheet metal like ones you might see on television or in movies. This still — custom designed and imported from Germany — is solid copper, standing more than 12 feet tall and carefully plumbed and wired inside a comfortable and spacious building. Cast aside, too, any preconceived notions of those who own the still, because Karen Binder and her partners look and act absolutely nothing like stereotypical moonshiners. Sure, they are making white lightning, hooch, mountain dew, or whatever you want to call it, from corn mash, but these liquor manufacturers are legal entrepreneurs with an eye on
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bottling success. They are part agriculturalist, part chemist, part connoisseur and all business. Binder says she came up with the idea of a Southern Illinoisbased craft distillery in a sort of backward way. After years of working as a journalist, focusing on business writing, she had just finished a stint as the executive director of the Illinois Grape and Wine Resource Council and knew she wanted to stay involved in the industry. “I approached this from an economic development perspective,” Binder recalls. “I didn’t want to start another winery in Southern Illinois, so I started thinking about what kind of business could complement the existing industry.” She says researching brandy, an alcohol product produced by distilling wine, led her to discover the ability of certain
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84 Life & Style : Summer 2013
Aaron Eisenhauer
still configurations to produce a variety of spirits using grapes and a wide range of grains. Binder says the idea percolated for a while, although distilled might be a better word, while researching other microdistilleries — a task she found to be somewhat difficult. “There aren’t many micro-distilleries operating in the United States,” she says. “There are fewer than 200, and most are on the coasts.” In fact, there are fewer than 10 licensed micro-distilleries in Illinois — eight in the Chicago area. After months of research, planning and exhausting federal and state licensing processes, Southern Sisters Distillery — established and owned by Binder and two other local residents — was born.
Start the path to your future at JALC
Karen Binder discusses the how her company’s Red Eye moonshine is made at Grand River Spirits in Carbondale.
Operating under the brand name Grand River Spirits, the micro-distillery has recently released its first product, Red Eye Corn Whiskey. Binder says Red Eye is now available across the Southern Illinois region. She adds that other distilled alcohols will follow. All will feature unique local flavors. “I like the idea of creating familiar products that might have a twinge of unique and exciting,” she says. “What we’re trying to create is a little bit of Southern Illinois in a bottle.” She says the availability of local inputs, ranging from grapes and wine to corn and other grain crops, is perfect for the micro-distillery. “There are endless possibilities in working with the wineries, and we
also have an amazing international community here; each culture has its own distillation recipes, and we hope we can do small batch distillations for those people who would like to have a taste of home.” Binder says plans are for Grand River Spirits to remain in its current “experimental, startup” location for up to four years, but then move into a permanent local location big enough to include a tasting room, additional stills, fermentation tanks and more. “We’re here for the long haul,” she says. “While this started as a personal aspiration of mine to create additional products that are reflective of Southern Illinois, I hope this will be something that can help Southern Illinois grow and add sustainable, quality jobs.”
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music
Aaron Eisenhauer
Edward Benyas conducts the Southern Illinois Music Festival Orchestra as it rehearses at First Baptist Church in Marion.
‘It is a huge part of my life, and probably my most important creative activity. I think it is just as important for many of our artists, who return year after year. I also respect the loyalty and appreciation that so many in our community have for the Southern Illinois Music Festival, including host families who request to host returning artists each year, and patrons who plan their vacations around our schedule.’
— Edward Benyas, Founder and Artistic Director of Southern Illinois Music Festival
Southern Illinois
Music Festival Swarm of B’s buzzing through Southern Illinois story by Joe Szynkowski No topic is off limits for members of the Southern Illinois Symphony Orchestra during their postconcert gatherings, including bees. Good thing. Cellist Tom May, renowned symphony cellist and avid beekeeper, generated quite a buzz when he suggested the theme for the upcoming ninth annual Southern Illinois Music Festival. “We started talking about all of the great ‘B’ composers,” said festival founder and director Edward Benyas. “Then, Tom suggested we call it Swarm of B’s and said he would make a special edition of honey for us to go along with the theme.” The idea stung — er, stuck. Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Bizet and Bartok. The list goes on. So, how did Benyas settle on his final program? “It is not a painful process,” he said. “It is like you are at the dessert buffet table, and you have so many good choices, but
you have to pick some and not others. You are still full at the end.” The festival is slated for June 4 to 23 and will feature more than 30 performances in venues from Sesser to Cairo and Murphysboro to Marion. Performers include the New Chicago Chamber Orchestra and musicians from throughout North and South America, Europe and Asia. “This year, we have a large group of talented artists in Southern Illinois, as well, including string, wind, percussion and keyboard players, dancers and vocalists,” Benyas said. “I think combining our excellent local artists with nationally recognized artists is one of the great things about the festival.” Highlights include Bizet’s tragic opera, “Carmen,” and two orchestral programs led by Benyas and Michael Barta. Rounding out the program will be
more Swarm of B’s June 4-23 618-453-6000 Shryock Auditorium Box Office www.SouthernTickets Online.com
Tchaikovsky’s fairy tale ballet, “Swan Lake,” with performances by some of the nation’s top ballet dancers. The festival also includes chamber music, a Sunday night jazz series at area wineries, and Klassics for Kids and Jive, with jazz events throughout the region. “It is terrific music, but informally presented,” Benyas said. “This year, (festival-goers) will hear music by the history’s greatest composers, along with watching perhaps the most popular opera and one of the most popular ballets of all time. We encourage patrons to come as they are. We know it is hot in the summer.”
Life & Style : Summer 2013 87
self
Hit the ground
Running story by Joe Szynkowski
Dave Simons of Chesterfield, Mo., runs down West Ash Street in Cobden during the River to River Relay in Southern Illinois.
Paul Newton
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You should run. But don’t take our word for it. Take theirs. They are runners at heart, churning their legs through Southern Illinois’ rolling hills and breathtaking trails. They are also medical professionals, who will tell you all about running’s health benefits and positive effects on mind, body and spirit. You can be one of them. There are numerous running clubs around the region, and they are comprised of healthconscious people who enjoy camaraderie, stunning scenery and a good sweat. Even if you’re not ready for the 5K, or a long marathon across Antarctica, find some comfortable shoes and hit the ground running.
Dr. Richard Zimmerman
Owner of Zimmerman Chiropractic and Doc Z’s Fitness in Du Quoin. “I firmly believe in chiropractic Zimmerman medicine as a necessary tool for athletes to obtain optimal health…. Running puts great stress on our bodies, even when we do it right. That is why stretching, strengthening and cross training are so important to remaining in balance.”
Michael Ahrens
Marion runner with 70 marathons under his belt, including recent Antarctica Marathon. “I enjoy the fellowship of runners. I enjoy eating often and not Ahrens putting on any weight. I enjoy my annual physical with good vitals. I enjoy the accomplishment of a strenuous workout. I also enjoy the scrawny feeling. I hate being bloated — pants too tight, clothing sizes expanding, belly protruding. Running has given me the opportunity to be with Olympian-caliber runners (Frank Shorter), run on famous running venues (Boston Marathon course), run challenging races (Bataan Death March) and be in age-related races (Senior Olympics). It is all good stuff.”
Kami Hankins
Carterville cross country standout who last season won her conference meet, placed ninth at sectionals, and finished 63rd at state. “When I first started to run, I ran to keep in Hankins shape. But, after a while, I fell in love with the sport. I run because I love the competition and the thrill of the meets. It makes me feel confident and proud of my accomplishments.”
Gene Tincher
Marion native and longtime member of the River to River Runners club. “I started running for the benefits. Good health and weight control. Now I run Tincher because I enjoy running. I enjoy the friends I have made in the running community and being outside in nature. Most of my running is at Crab Orchard Refuge, Giant City Park and Tunnel Hill Trail.”
Life & Style : Summer 2013 89
out & about
Mermet Springs
Your springboard for diving experiences around the world
story by Adam Testa Being land-locked in the middle of the country, people in Illinois don’t enjoy many of the benefits of coastal life. But, at Mermet Springs, near Vienna, residents and visitors alike can participate in a typically oceanic activity that takes adventure to new depths.
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Open year ’round, Mermet Springs is known as a SCUBA diving shop and diving destination. Guests from both coasts, who have closer diving options to home, as well as Texas, Canada and elsewhere, make annual visits to Southern Illinois to dive at and explore the converted limestone quarry. “It’s like an underwater amusement park,” said owner Glen Faith. “We literally have planes, trains and automobiles.” Faith means that quite literally, too. A plethora of large props, including the 727 aircraft used in the movie “U.S. Marshals,” can be discovered underneath the surface of the water. And, there are some pretty special fish, too. Paddlefish, long fish distinguishable long spatula-like spouts, are among the attractions. These creatures can reach sizes of up to 6 or 8 feet in length, Faith said. Visibility beneath the surface ranges between 15 and 50 feet, depending on the conditions. The springs are open year ’round for certified divers at a cost of $20 per day.
Provided by Mermet Springs
A plethora of large props, including the 727 aircraft used in the movie ‘U.S. Marshals,’ can be discovered underneath the surface of the water.
For those who are new to the hobby or want to be a certified diver, Mermet Springs offers training courses. The 40-hour program costs $290 in tuition, plus books. A variety of training programs and packages, including private lessons and family sessions, are available throughout the year. Students must be at least 10 years old, but there is no upper-age limit. Certifications are valid for life. Between 200 and 300 people are certified at Mermet Springs each year. “You’d never imagine that in Southern Illinois,” Faith said. “That’s a lot of people.” Learning how to SCUBA dive at Mermet Springs is only the starting point for many people. With the basics under theirs belts and certifications in their wallets, they’re able to explore the world. Faith has traveled the world on trips built around diving, including visits to Egypt, Japan and the Caribbean. He will be traveling to Thailand next year. “Diving is a springboard to take people even further in their travels,” he said. “Getting a dive card is like getting a key to travel the world.”
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gadgets
Jump into
summer with
poolside accessories
To say Southern Illinois has experienced a pattern of odd weather so far in 2013 would be an understatement. After a winter and early spring marred by inexplicable shifts between sunshine and snowfall, many may be uncertain what the next few months may hold. When it comes to summer, there’s not much sense worrying; it’s better to hope — and prepare — for beautiful temperatures, clear skies and a forecast of fun. The season will hopefully offer many days, as well as nights, perfect for sitting poolside. But don’t settle for the rays of the sun, the water of the pool and the company of friends. Enhance the experience with these accessories and make the most out of the summer. — Adam Testa
SunBriteTV Outdoor Television Description: With modern technology and digital video recorders, there’s not as much need to worry about missing the big baseball game or television special while lounging in the pool, but for those who want to witness these types of events as they’re happening, outdoor televisions make that possible. SunBriteTV offers a wide variety of sizes and models of televisions built specifically for outdoors use. The LCD devices are designed to offer quality picture, while protecting against the effects of weather, dirt, insects and bugs, temperatures and ultraviolet rays from the sun. The televisions’ design not only takes protection into account, but also user satisfaction. The protective coverings placed on the screens are crafted to reduce glare, as well. SunBriteTV’s products are used commercially, as well as for home use. Many major league sporting teams use the company’s products in their stadiums. Cost: $2,795 for a 46” Model 4660HD at sunbritetv.com
MiPro MA707-NM Portable Sound System Description: Whether enjoying some rest and relaxation alone or throwing a summertime party, a little music can improve just about any situation. With this portable sound system, the user can keep it stored away until the time is right, and then set it up with little hassle. There’s no need to worry about leaving electronics outside when not in use; they can be packed up and stored inside. This device features highoutput power, a compact and lightweight design and crisp sound quality. It will play music from CDs or a USB-connected device, such as an iPod or MP3 player, and runs on built-in rechargeable batteries, allowing it to be set up any-where, whether or not there’s an electrical outlet nearby. There are inputs for two wired or wireless microphones. Optional travel bag and expansion speakers are available. Cost: $899 at fitnessav.com
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Folding Baja II Floating Pool Lounge Description: There’s nothing quite like an afternoon of relaxing in the pool and soaking up the sun, but you also want to be comfortable in doing so. Floating lounges and chairs are in no short supply, but choosing the right one can be a challenge. Some are entirely inflatable, while others use piping to provide more structure. One option is the Folding Baja II, a foam pool lounge from Texas Recreation that features high-quality, soft vinyl-coated closed-cell foam with a built-in headrest for neck support. The extra wide and long dimensions add another level of comfort. The lounge chair folds down for easy storage and transport and unfolds for seated comfort. Cost: $215 at amazon.com
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Life & Style : Summer 2013 93
scenic beauty
The views at
Burden Falls are as refreshing as a summer rain
story and photography by Les Winkeler A bad day at Burden Falls is spectacular. A good day is almost beyond description. Timing is the key element when visiting this gem of the Shawnee National Forest. The optimum time to visit the falls are in the days immediately after a spring shower. The boulder-lined canyon is a breathtaking sight on a dry day. However, the area comes alive when crystal clear water meanders through the huge sandstone rocks of the upper falls before cascading down the sheer face of the 80-foot precipice. The waterfall is one of the tallest in Illinois. But the eye candy is only part of the treat. Every sense is stimulated in a visit to this amazing spot. The audible experience is nothing short of amazing, from the wind rushing through the hardwood trees surrounding the top of the canyon, to gurgling water rolling through the upper falls, to the screech of redbellied woodpeckers or the melody of warblers. The aromas are intoxicating as well. Short of hot apple pie, there are few smells as enticing as the aroma of crystal clear water mixed with the earthy smell of the forest vegetation. And, on a hot day, the coolness rising from the water is as refreshing as a summer rain. Another glorious aspect of Burden Falls is accessibility. The upper falls are visible from the parking lot. And, although it can be slippery, navigating the rivulets and boulders of the upper falls is relatively easy. It takes a little more work to negotiate the trip to the bottom of the canyon, but most visitors should be able to find a way to the base. If the trip to the bottom of the canyon appears daunting, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be dismayed. The views from the rim are spectacular.
getting there Burden Falls is located in the northwest corner of Pope County. The falls can be reached from Illinois 145 and U.S. 45. From 145, turn west on Burden Falls Road near Dellwood. The gravel road will cross the upper falls just before the parking lot. From 45, turn east on Ozark Road at Ozark. The road becomes McCormick Road in about 3.5 miles. When the road forks, go left to remain on McCormick Road. Signs should direct you to Burden Falls.
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First in Region
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Life & Style : Summer 2013 95
parting shot
p.s.
photo by Aaron Eisenhauer The Southern
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Brock Moore plays â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Tapsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; from beneath a tree at the conclusion of a Memorial Day ceremony at Mound City National Cemetery.
Optional features shown.
Vogler Lincoln is excited to announce the arrival of the new 2013 MKZ.
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