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Barb loved to cook for her church, but mysterious weight gain in her abdomen made it hard for her to even walk. Little did she know, it was cancer. What to do? With help from an SIH cancer patient navigator, who just happened to be a fellow church member, Barb had guidance throughout the journey. She found out that not one, but a team of physicians and cancer specialists could personalize her treatment right here in southern Illinois. With that, she chose to stay here for her care. Barb feels better than she has in years. This new burst of energy is putting her on the path to doing what she loves — cooking for her church members and especially the children. Barb has beaten the odds. She’s a cancer survivor with a strong team on her side.
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Life & Style : Spring 2014 3
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710 North Illinois Avenue P.O. Box 2108 Carbondale, Illinois 62902 618-529-5454 • 800-228-0429 fax 618-529-3774 www.LifeandStyleSI.com cara.recine@thesouthern.com Publisher Bob Williams Executive Editor Gary Metro Editor Cara Recine Niche Lacey Thompson Advertising Manager Graphic Rhonda M. May Designer Circulation Mark Romanowski
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welcome
Letter from the executive editor Celebrating the connections — of all kinds — in our lives
STEVE MATZKER
Connections are easier to make than when I was a young man. There was a telephone in almost every home, so instant communication was possible. We also had the U.S. Postal Service and the joy of receiving a personal letter in the mailbox. My grandma’s handwriting was especially beautiful, and the thoughts she conveyed with a sixthgrade education put some college graduates to shame. By contrast, today we are so connected with the people in our lives, as well as those in our virtual lives, the needs for silence and solace sometimes require more attention than connecting with the outside world. In my office, it is possible for me to launch The Southern Illinoisan’s editor Gary Metro stays connected with readers and staff. emails from my desktop computer while talking on the landline phone celebrate the increased connections in your lives — despite the and sending text messages from my smartphone. This may bumps in the road. sound crazy, but it’s necessary for someone leading a news This issue of Life & Style focuses on the personal, the organization — even if I occasionally blurt something out of communicated and the shared connections in our lives. Our context into the phone that I really meant to text. My callers Getaways feature, for example, looks at the many connections always understand. They’ve done it, too. between our world-class institution of higher education, Aside from these slight difficulties, the age of connections Southern Illinois University, and the state’s world-class city, greatly increases the power of gathering news and information. Chicago. Social media delivers a worldwide web of confidants. And the Our cover story looks at some of the region’s best-known world’s greatest reference library — the Internet — is just a few and most valuable movers and shakers and explores the keystrokes away and open for business 24/7. connections between their selfless acts and success in If something happens to a local resident traveling in Europe, life. You’ll probably agree that “What goes around, comes we get the news as it happens. World-shaping events jump around.” at us from screens and speakers in our phones, TVs and even We’ve also got you covered if you’re looking for good things some eyeglasses. There are times when I need to turn off the to eat and drink, gadgets that ease the connections in your life phone, step away from the computer and unplug from social (tablets and notebooks and super laptops — oh my!) and the media just to hear my own thoughts. latest from the worlds of the arts, wellness and style. But it’s not something I would change, even if that were Happy connections! Happy spring! possible. You probably feel the same way and generally — Gary Metro
Life & Style : Spring 2014 5
contents
37 Connections
Spring 2014
10 Social Seen
More events, more photos! See who you know this issue
Making a difference in their communities
68 Wine
Old world, new wines: Walker’s Bluff releases first vintages
30 Good Eats
Chocolate: A rich ingredient in local food culture
33 15 Questions
Get to know Steve Falcone: Teacher, writer, playwright and funny guy
34 Cheers to Beer
Kindred Spirits: The Bluffs Vineyard and Winery offers regional craft beers
50 Entertainment Blues DNA: Richard ‘Rip Lee’ Pryor follows in his father’s footsteps
78 Business Buzz
The Wild Trillium gives new life to Benton Public Square
6 Life & Style : Spring 2014
70 Getaways
Chicago is a city full of eclectic and creative opportunities for visitors
cover photo Lori Baysinger of Photography by Lori shot our cover featuring Stan Irvin, Linda Mitecek, Diane Hood and Jeff Speith.
this issue Don’t Miss This Style Service Scenic Beauty Gadgets At Work History
29 46 49 52 55 58 62
Décor Lens Envy Meet the Artist Apps Self Learning Parting Shot
64 66 80 82 84 86 88
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Cara Recine editor 618-351-5075 cara.recine @thesouthern.com
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1015 E. Walnut Life & Style : Spring 2014 9
social seen 1
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Alto Vineyards Anniversary
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Alto Vineyards hosted a soirée Dec. 14 to help celebrate 25 years and three generations of winemaking and to thank supporters through the years. The evening included food, wine and music by local favorites Carter and Connelley at the event in Alto Pass. 1. Robert and Barbara Arnold and Dan and Judy Lecocq of Murphysboro
5. Rosemary and Gene Trammel of Marion, Donnie and Maribeth Smith of Cobden
2. Mike and Tracy Bost of Murphysboro
6. Michael Bell of Carbondale and Ruth Hoak of Makanda
3. Bryan Neibuhr and Megan Harshbarger of Decatur
7. Musical entertainers Carter and Connelley
4. Dan Sitarz of Carbondale, Brenda Brackett of Carbondale and Ernie Brauchli of Chicago 5
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ADAM TESTA
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8. Corey Peters, Zach Kodatt, Hilary Griffin, Matt McGee and Paul Renzaglia
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9. Marsha Forest and Sam Digregor of Cobden 10. Norma Donner of Cobden and Stephanie Dillard of Carbondale 11. Sonja Lallemand of Murphysboro, Stacey Silver Tentrine and Cash Johnson of Carbondale 12. Lee and Lina Lindner of Pinckneyville 13. Sue Hileman of Anna, Scott and Kim Swain of Jonesboro
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14. Steve Ward and Debbie Tindall of Murphysboro 15. Drs. Michele Cheatham and Marci MooreConnelley of Carbondale 16. Pam Leenig of Murphysboro and Kathy Bell of Carbondale
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17. Rich and Jon Ratterman of Glen Carbon 13
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Want more? Go to www.LifeandStyleSI.com
Life & Style : Spring 2014 11
social seen
Venice in Southern Illinois
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So-Cal rock band Venice put on a great concert in SIU’s McLeod Theater on Dec. 7. Proceeds from the special performance benefitted the All-Southern High School Theatre Project of Carbondale Community Arts and the McLeod Summer Playhouse.
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1. The music group Venice 2. Steve and Jan Payne of Carbondale 4
3. Christie and Jonathan Mitchell of Carterville 4. Sharon Harris-Johnson, Dennis Johnson and John and Susan Clemons of Murphysboro 5. Labib, Georgette and Sophie Elkahwaji 6. Ben Shepherd, Rita Cheng and Ann Marie Shepherd of Carbondale
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ADAM TESTA
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7. Sam and Leticia Marzouk, Doris Rivera and Carmen Serrano of Chicago 8. Keith Reinhardt of Carbondale, Nancy Cucera of Cobden and Dr. Diana Gualtney of Carbondale 9. Gary Kolb and Georgia Wessel of Carbondale 10. Tom and Jan Hoffmann of Carbondale, Clare Chance of Carbondale and Tim Leary of Lake of Egypt 11. Gary and Debbie Metro of Carbondale and Chuck and Connie Novara of Murphysboro 12. Elaine Ramseyer with son Sam, and Samantha Mirza of Carbondale 13. Alan and Barbie Overton of Herrin and Debbie Meador of Carbondale 14. Malcolm and Brenda Todd of Murphysboro 15. Greg James of Carterville, George Bemak of Makanda, Alexis Depre of Makanda, Laura James of Carterville and Jean Jones of Carterville
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social seen
Food & Wine Pairing
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A Southern Illinois food and wine pairing was hosted Jan. 6 at the Holiday Inn in Carbondale. The purpose of the gathering was to highlight local wines paired with food from Boondock’s Seafood Co.’s new menu. 1. Bruce Dallas of Murphysboro, Gerd Hedman of Hedman Vineyards and Barbara and Jim Bush of Carbondale 2. Debbie Moore of Carbondale and Stephanie Rhodes of Alto Pass 3. Frank Wesseln of Von Jakob and Karen Hand of Cobden
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4. Jana Haley and Fred Freeman, both of Murphysboro 5. Sue and Jack Whitlock of Carbondale 6. Tony and Beth Eckert of Golconda 7. Don and Jill Johnson of Carbondale
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8. Darcie Hastings and Barbara Dallas, both of Murphysboro
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RHONDA M. MAY
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New Year’s Eve at Mary’s
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Mary’s Restaurant owners David and Carla Hays hosted a festive New Year’s Eve celebration where the guests enjoyed the ambience, service, delectable entrées and desserts. 1. Ken and Carol Jenkins of Herrin 2. Angie Connor and Garrett Hastings 3. David and Sandra Holmes of Herrin 4. Teresa and Keith Camarato of Herrin 5. Tony and Donna Gates of Marion
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6. Hila and Joe Leenerts of Herrin 7. Vicki and Frank Colombo of Marion 8. Paul and Sandy Pagliai of Johnston City 7
9. Mary’s owners Carla and David Hays of Herrin 10. Cookie and Carl Goodwin of Herrin 9
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Life & Style : Spring 2014 15
social seen
Fall Ball
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Two Rivers Child Advocacy Center in Anna was the beneficiary of a fundraiser Nov. 16 at Blue Sky Winery in Makanda. Cocktails, dinner, live music and a silent auction helped raise cash for the organization. 1. Shirley Harris and Laura Taylor (standing), Cathleen Belcher, Wanda and Rick Dillow, all of Anna 3
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2. Carla Eads of Jackson, Mo., Jim Harris of Anna, and Becky Simpher of Cape Girardeau 3. Lorri Murphy, Kristen Stagle and Ashley Hannon, all of Anna 4. Jennifer Travelstead and Ginger McBride of Goreville 5. Terri and Jeff Farris of Olive Branch, Suzie and Rob Wright of Jonesboro 6. Beth Myers and Michelle Dirden of Anna
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7. James Burns and Rosemary Higdon-Burns of Wickliffe, Ky., Lynel and Jeff Willis of Anna
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8. Todd and Cindy Hancock of Jonesboro 9. Molly and Dan Johnson of Alto Pass, Tim and Tylie Heath of Lick Creek 10. Stephen and Sherrie Crabb of Harrisburg and Nancy and John Price of Olive Branch 11. Tom and Elaine Dunn of Cobden 12. Robin and Rollie Hawk of Anna 13. Philip Travelstead of Goreville and Keith Webb of Tunnel Hill
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Want more? Go to www.LifeandStyleSI.com
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Life & Style : Spring 2014 17
social seen 1
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Wine Release Party
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On Nov. 29, Walker’s Bluff Winery in Carterville hosted an invitation-only party celebrating the release of its first wines. 1. Winston Blake Jackson and Taylor Hursh of Hawaii and Dr. Michaelis and Martine Jackson 2. Mike and Carol Dreith of Murphysboro
5. Dr. Stephen and Tracey Mills of Carterville 6. Sharon and Thomas Lynch of Hurst
3. Guy and Dora Whitecotton of Dowell
7. Amy and Zach Niemann of Murphysboro, Heidi and Trace Brown of Carbondale
4. MC Olson of Marion and Sam Myers of Herrin
8. Ronda and Chris Guertner of Carbondale
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Want more? Go to www.LifeandStyleSI.com
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RHONDA M. MAY AND CARA RECINE
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9. Jim Miller of Herrin, Marian Kaufman and Jan McGraw of Makanda 10. Michelle Stempson of Lebanon, Tenn., Michael and Ruth Bradford of Carterville 11. E.J. and Taffie Helleney of Herrin 12. Jim Temple of Carbondale (center) and Gene and Pam Green of Murphysboro 13. Mary Politte and Metty Morgan of Mayfield, Ky. 14. Charles and Janice Shahadey of Herrin 15. Aaron Workman and Darlene Lutchka of De Soto (front) and John and Lianne Watson of Makanda 16. Gayla and Bill Borgognoni of Carbondale
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PROVIDED BY REANNE PALMER
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RLC Foundation Dinner On Dec. 5 at the Mount Vernon Holiday Inn, the Rend Lake College Foundation hosted its annual dinner, which celebrates hundreds of students, as well as donors to the college’s scholarship program.
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1. RLCF Scholarship Donor Jim Chamness of Royalton 2. Shawna Manion of Mount Vernon, 2013 RLC Alumnus of the Year Trish Reed of West Chicago, Terry Wilkerson of Dahlgren
3. Rich Yunkus of Benton 4. Rich Yunkus of Benton and Terry Wilkerson of Dahlgren 5. Jim and Lisa Muir of Sesser
Get it delivered! Get 8 issues for $17.95 Name Address City State
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20 Life & Style : Spring 2014
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PROVIDED BY VICKI COLOMBO
1
Bank Christmas party
4
Herrin Security Bank hosted its annual Christmas party for its officers and employees, as well as their guests, on Dec. 7 at the Herrin Elks lodge. The event was a way for the bank to recognize its employees during the holiday season and to celebrate a year of successes. 5
1. Jennifer and Chad Orso
4. Rachel and David Stacey
2. Kelly Green
5. Brett and Ramona Wieland of Herrin
3. Kelly and Romie Restivo of Herrin
800-915-0918 • 1015 E. Walnut w w w.auffenbergcarbondale.com Life & Style : Spring 2014 21
social seen 1
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Marion Chamber of Commerce The Marion Chamber of Commerce’s annual gathering is always a fun and informative event. This year, it took place at The Pavilion of the City of Marion on Jan. 17.
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1. Dr. Beth Butler, C.C. Hunt and Gail West, all of Marion
6. Jared Garrison of Marion and Joy Gaddis of Johnston City
2. Jennifer Olson and Jennifer Vinyard, both of Marion
7. Jennifer Kohler, Marsha Linnaberry and Amanda Williams, all from U.S. Bank
3. Jerry and Sheri Crouse of Marion
8. Doug and Mary Kimmel of Marion
4. Ryan James and Pearl Gibbons, both of Marion
9. Ryan Hughes and Larry Hughes, both of Marion
5. Amanda and Ashley Gott of Marion
10. Brad Wyatt, James Meyer and Justin Haltaman, all of Murphysboro
5 6
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ALEXA ROGALS
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11. Pat Steinhouse, Brandy Toepfer, Deborah Hogg and Marylin Jones
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12. Ben Morris and Jessica Folmar of Marion 13. Randy Lewis and Robert Cruz of Marion 14. Brian and Any Frerichs of Marion 15. Doug McFarland and Gary Pearson of Marion 16. John and Kelly Caudill of Carterville 17. Stephanie and John Vandaele of Marion 12
See more photos on Page 24
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be seen Have you been to a great event lately? Did you take photos?
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If you would like to have the photos considered for publication in our magazine, call for details and image specifications: Cara Recine, 618-351-5075
Want more? Go to www.LifeandStyleSI.com 16
ALEXA ROGALS
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F in lovee with Fall wit the he home of your dreams Linda Williams Managing Broker/Owner 525-3243 Doug Williams/Broker 922-2347 Judy Davis/Broker 922-3224 Reneé Abbey/Broker 694-3251
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Shawna Donovan/Broker 694-5678
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social seen 18
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Marion Chamber of Commerce (continued)
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18. Gary Bouhl and Travis Severin of Marion
23. Bob and Cheri Romonosky of Harrisburg
19. Ashlee and Nate Church both of Marion
24. Kim Nedham and Shaad Schubert, both representing Silkworm
20. Sam Hood and Amber Ciochetto of Marion
25. Randy Lewis and Bob Katubig both of Marion
21. Ryan Hughes of Marion and Webby Sullivan of Goreville 21
26. Stan and Amy Diggs of Carterville
22. Rod Hogg of Stonefort and Stephan Ackarmann of Marion
Want more? Go to www.LifeandStyleSI.com
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ALEXA ROGALS
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24 Life & Style : Spring 2014
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Be your own medical historian. IT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE. The Sanders family, originally of Johnston City, is a close-knit group. Thank goodness, because for the last eight years, heart disease has been trying to tear them apart. In fact, astonishingly all four siblings— Robin, Bob, Scott and Jamie—have had major heart treatment for the persistent disease that seems to run rampant in their family.
26 Life & Style : Spring 2014
SCOTT. THE ONE WHO STARTED IT ALL. It started with Scott, a case worker at the H Group and an occasional referee for local basketball in 2005. “I started having chest pain during a game,” said Scott. Then he did what so many do, decided to tough it out at home. The next day, following a call to his local physician, he promptly drove to Memorial Hospital of Carbondale.
BOB. THE HUNTER. Older brother Bob noticed a gradual weakness interfering with his life in 2009. An avid hunter, walking is a must, but the severe weakness and a numbness in his arms started to make it impossible. “Scotty and I hunt a lot,” said Bob. “One time I was trying to flush out some ducks for him. I didn’t think I was going to make it around the lake.”
That day he received a stent. He was 41. “I even gave Dr. Son Le quite a scare when I actually had a slight heart attack on the table,” said Scott.
The same episode happened while fishing a few days later. Bob finally gave in and saw his primary physician in Carbondale. “My blood pressure was 200/105! They escorted me right over to the Emergency Room,” said Bob. He suffered from an aortic aneurysm and a faulty valve. Major open heart surgery would be necessary.
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He left with four bypasses, a repaired aneurysm and a new titanium valve. JAMIE. THE BABY OF THE FAMILY. 2012 to 2013 was a stressful time. Jamie had a teenager and young twin girls. Her husband was away on a job in North Dakota. Meanwhile she attended nursing school, and was within days of graduating.
“I noticed I was having some chest discomfort and fluttering while doing exercises at home,” said Jamie. When it kept being persistent, Jamie’s husband convinced her that a trip to the Herrin Hospital Emergency Room was in order. No heart attack was indicated at the time, but with Jamie’s stress level, anxiety can have a similar effect. A quick trip to her primary care physician led to her to the Prairie Cardiac Cath Lab in Carbondale. The news was something she did not see coming. At 40 years old, she needed bypass surgery. This meant missing her graduation ceremonies. She watched her fellow RNs get pinned from her hospital bed via a video stream on her iPad.
ROBIN. THE LUCKY ONE. “I thought I was the lucky one,” said eldest-sister, Robin. In a sense she is.
“I was in shock after seeing what Jamie had to go through at her age. I decided to see my doctor and tell her about my sister,” she said. “I didn’t have any symptoms. I was just tired a lot.” This visit was key. With the significant history, coupled with her fatigue, her doctor recommended a stress test this past November—one which she would not pass.
Today, the Sanders family feels incredibly fortunate to be alive to share their story. “We talk a lot to our own kids now, about eating healthy and getting checked out,” said Scott. As a nurse, Jamie has an entirely new perspective. “Be persistent. Trust your instincts. And above all, don’t always make excuses. Your body is trying to tell you something.”
“I had two stents put in at Prairie in Memorial Hospital of Carbondale,” Robin said. AN ENTIRE FAMILY IMPACTED BY HEART DISEASE. “Family history is something we ask about immediately on a first visit to Prairie,” said Nabil Al-Sharif, cardiologist. “For coronary artery disease, there’s not one screening that gives us the definitive answer. We must take all of the risk factors into consideration: cholesterol, family history, blood pressure, etc.”
Call for more information
866-744-2468
Life & Style : Spring 2014 27
Question 1:
What’s the most fuel-efficient luxury hybrid in America?
Question 2:
Is there a luxury hybrid that has same starting price as the gas model?
Question 3:
Which luxury hybrid offers inflatable rear safety belts?
FACTORY OWNER LOYALTY REBATE
28 Life & Style : Spring 2014
don’t miss this TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE OSCARS When: 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27 Where: Copper Dragon, 700 E. Grand Ave., Carbondale Tickets: $35 per person; $280 for a table of eight; includes dinner Info: 618-303-5974, www.bgc-cdale.org Test your movie trivia knowledge for prizes and support after-school programs for the Boys and Girls Club of Carbondale. The competition will consist of 10 rounds of movie-related questions, with a bonus question for extra points. Each member of the winning team receives a bottle of wine, a movie gift certificate and an “Oscar.” Attendees can also participate in a 50/50 raffle, “Best Picture Raffle” and silent auction. Dinner will be catered by the Great Boars of Fire, and there will be a cash bar.
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MARDI GRAS BRUNCH
Tickets: $25 Info: 618-734-0201 This annual event helps support the historic Magnolia Manor in Cairo. Get in the New Orleans spirit with all-youcan-eat Cajun cuisine and Champagne. There will also be — what else? — a live jazz band. Reservations are appreciated but not required. Organizers request that you leave the kiddies at home. The event is one of several that support the upkeep of the museum and the home, which has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1969. The 1869 postbellum manor is a fabulous example of the day’s popular Italianate architecture and is chock full of history.
For more information on these events and activities across Southern Illinois, go to www.LifeandStyleSI.com
SPRING ARTS FESTIVAL When: April 4-6 Where: Anna Arts Center, 125 W. Davie St., Anna Cost: $15 (for Paint the Town) event Info: 618-833-6525 or facebook. com/annaartscenter This burgeoning event features entertainment, a juried art exhibit and Paint the Town event. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 5, take part is transforming the asphalt parking lot into an outdoor canvas for hundreds of people of all ages. The focus of Saturday’s event is the painting of four-foot “framed” squares. For $15 a square, you’ll get paint, brush, towels and whatever you need to create your own original artwork! And if it rains, don’t stay away; the squares will be in the Center Stage gallery building across the street. Food vendors will be there, but you can also bring your own picnic! The juried art exhibit opens Friday night, and there will be live entertainment. Winners will be announced Sunday.
DERBY AT THE VINEYARD When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 3
When: 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, March 2 Where: Magnolia Manor, 2700 Washington Ave., Cairo
More to see in April/May
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Where: Blue Sky Vineyards, 3150 S. Rocky Comfort Road, Makanda Cost: Free Info: 618-995-9453 Don your best hat for a contest and watch the Kentucky Derby on the big screen at Blue Sky Vineyard. Prizes and race tickets will be given out. Everyone gets a free ticket with a horse’s name; if that horse wins the Derby, turn it in for a $15 gift card from the winery. Hang on to the ticket, and if your horse wins the Preakness and/ or the Belmont Stakes, there will be even more fabulous prizes. Food and wine will be available for purchase.
RIVERSIDE ART & WINE FESTIVAL When: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, May 24 Where: Riverside Park, 2610 W. Riverside Park Road, Murphysboro Tickets: $12 in advance, $15 at gate; $5 if you won’t be sampling Info: www.murphysborochamber.com Hosted by Murphysboro Chamber of Commerce, this spring event features 10 Illinois wineries offering free tastings and wine for sale, fine artists, vendors, food and live music throughout the day.
Life & Style : Spring 2014 29
good eats
Chocolate A rich ingredient in local food culture
Basic instructions for melting chocolate
story by Mary Thomas Layton
NOTE: To store any chocolate, leave it out at room temperature. No not store in refrigerator. — Provided by Linda Meherg, The Chocolate Factory
Linda Meherg and Bonnie Gillespie work the counter of The Chocolate Factory on a December morning. Meherg has owned the business since the mid-1980s.
STA ADAM TE
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PROVIDED BY JENNIFER FLATH
1. Use an electric skillet and add water to the skillet. 2. Put your chocolate in jars or bowls and then into the water bath. 3. Never let the water boil. The chocolate will become very thick and hard if this happens. You may add a teaspoon, or so, of oil to the chocolate if it gets too thick. The chocolate should stay thin so you can dip or mold it. If you have some chocolate left and want to save it, just cover it and store in the cabinet. 4. Add chocolate to mold and place in freezer for 4 to 5 minutes. It is not necessary to spray the mold with a release agent. 5. To remove candy from mold, hold mold over wax paper and tap gently. Candy should release from mold; if it does not, then return mold to freezer and repeat.
Hollywood glorifies it in “Chocolat” and “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.” Holidays capture it in brightly wrapped Santas, valentines and Easter bunnies. And consumers eat it up. Chocolate is in the shopping bag, on the coffee table, next to the computer. And it’s coming from upscale destination shops, not just the big-box stores down the street. Sophisticated palates, satisfied only by high-end confections, have been seduced by fresh, locally made products. And business is good here in Southern Illinois. “What makes my chocolate stand out the most is its taste,” said Jennifer Libbra, owner of The Chocolate Affair in Highland. “The appeal of specialty chocolate, as opposed to mainstream, is that small-batch chocolates have a quality and flavor that comes simply from being more fresh. Large, massproduced chocolates will lose quality due to the preservatives necessary for large distributions. Since it is not laden with these preservatives, my chocolate has a much better flavor. And, since we make it on premises, we can maintain high standards for the freshness.”
Linda Meherg, owner of The Chocolate Factory in Golconda, emphasized that it’s the superior quality that makes her chocolate special. “We make it fresh every day. I mix it up to make it taste the way I think it should taste,” Meherg said. “I have two melters in the back room that temper the chocolate. They hold 300 pounds each when they’re full. Another one holds 50 pounds — that’s dark chocolate. One girl that stands back there paints the chocolate by hand.” She pointed out that novelty chocolates are popular among her customers and ideal for giftgiving. “People come in and say they collect trains, and they’ll go see there’s a chocolate train,” Meherg said. Chocolate can take just about any shape, including cell phones, hair dryers and curling irons, happy birthday and anniversary cards, hammers and needle-nose pliers, rolling pins and muffin trays, false teeth and deviled eggs. Meherg shared a story about how cleverly disguised deviled eggs — they were really chocolate — kept getting moved from one table to another at a church
Chocolate-dipped strawberries from The Chocolate Affair in Highland make a great gift. They are made to order and require 24 hours notice to ensure freshness.
Butter Almond Toffee
affair. The person who brought the eggs finally had to speak up and explain that they did not belong with the salads and side dishes. They were dessert. Describing chocolate as “a comfort food,” Libbra said she believes it will always have a strong presence in food culture. “It is also a food that gets associated with memories, beginning in childhood, so I think chocolate evokes happy feelings and emotions for people,” she added. “Almost everyone has a favorite chocolate ‘something.’”
The Chocolate Affair in Highland is both a candy shop and a bed and breakfast, allowing couples the opportunity to mix the two for a romantic getaway experience.
ADAM TESTA
Line a large baking sheet with foil. Butter the foil or spray with nonstick spray. In a heavy 2-quart sauce pan over medium heat, bring the butter, sugar and water to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Continue to boil, stirring constantly, to the hard crack stage (300 degrees). Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla. Add baking soda. When candy forms, immediately pour it onto the prepared baking sheet in a thin layer. Cool. After it is completely cooled, break toffee into pieces. Dip into melted chocolate and top with almonds. — Provided by Jennifer Libbra, The Chocolate Affair
PROVIDED BY JENNIFER FLATH
1/2 cup butter 1 cup granulated sugar 1 tablespoon water 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 3/4 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 cup ground, toasted almonds 1 to 1 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted
Sugar-free raisin clusters are only one of the many delicious treats cooked up in the kitchen of The Chocolate Factory. Items can be purchased by the pound or in variety packs.
A Candy Case of Delight Awaits You Plan your 2013 Girlfriend Party Now!
801 Ninth St.• Highland, IL • 618/654-9340
3 Uniquely Decorated Rooms Massages Available by Appointment During Your Stay. Sampling Privileges during your stay. Gift Certificates Available
Handmade and Specialty Chocolates for Any Special Occasion Only 30 Minutes from Downtown St. Louis and Fairview Heights View the rooms at www.thechocolateaffair.com • Friend us on
for shop updates
Life & Style : Spring 2014 31
32 Life & Style : Spring 2014
15 questions
Getting to know
Steve Falcone is happily retired from college-level teaching, but he’s still directing plays and writing them, as well. His fairytale, “Best Wishes,” will be staged this fall at John A. Logan College. A self-described traveling fool, Steve had a marvelous 70th birthday in Napa Valley with wonder wife, Peg, and golden lads, Flynn and Ben. He spends lots of time in Los Angeles, where both sons live. Actor/ Teacher, writer, playwright and actor Steve Falcone at a literary landmark in Paris. director Ben’s wife is Melissa McCarthy, an actor, comedian, writer and producer. Steve also has two lovely granddaughters. He plans to travel this spring to Budapest, Hungary, where Melissa is shooting a movie, and move on to Switzerland in the summer to visit a dear friend. His mantra shows his lovely sense of humor: “Seize the Carp!” When and where are you happiest? In a bistro with family
What natural gift would you most like to possess? Hellacious bass singing voice
What is your most marked positive personal characteristic? Enthusiasm
What is your present state of mind? Happy
What is your principle fault? Quickness to judge
Who are your favorite heroes/heroines of fiction? Kilgore Trout, Huck Finn, Dude Lebowski
The quality you most admire in a man? Kindness
Who are your favorite characters in history? St. Francis of Assisi
The quality you most admire in a woman? Kindness
Who are your favorite movie directors? Woody Allen, Coen Brothers, Ben Falcone
What characteristic do you most value in your friends? Thoughtfulness If you could come back as a person or thing, what would it be? A soaring eagle What is your biggest self-indulgence? Champagne
PROVIDED
Steve Falcone
Who are your favorite writers? Kurt Vonnegut, Hemingway short stories, Tom Robbins, Poe If you could do anything other than your present profession, what would it be? I’d like to be Pope, though I admire the guy doing the job now.
glorious galas to cozy gatherings,
your event can come to life.
Whatever the occasion, we have the space you need. Offering the latest in state-of-the-art services, allowing you to conduct successful and efficient meetings, along with eloquent and beautiful receptions.
AT THE HEART OF CARBONDALE
THE CARBONDALE CIVIC CENTER 618.457.3209 200 South Illinois Avenue, Carbondale www.explorecarbondale.com
Life & Style : Spring 2014 33
ADAM TESTA
cheers to beer
Kindred Spirits The Bluffs Vineyard and Winery is taking the passion for handcrafted libations to the next level by offering regional craft beers
story by Shawn Connelly “It takes a lot of beer to make wine.” This is one of the first axioms I heard when I tried my hand at winemaking with my father-in-law, a proprietor of a local vineyard and winery, nearly a decade ago. Obviously the sentiment isn’t literal, and more than a little hyperbolic, but it does speak to the fact that artisan wine, beer, cider and distilled
34 Life & Style : Spring 2014
spirits are interconnected on several levels. Many of the basic processes of fermentation are similar, but there is also a kindred spirit when it comes to creating a unique and flavorful product out of raw ingredients, which are also often locally produced. The Bluffs Vineyard and Winery, located about 10 miles west of Murphysboro on Illinois 3, can attest to this fact. Cheryl and Steve Ellis opened
their winery in April 2010, but had been making wine and dreaming of a commercial winery since the mid-1990s. “My family has always made wine,” Steve explains, “and we enjoyed going to the few local wineries there were at the time. We just believed this was something we could do to contribute to the area.” Steve is a Murphysboro native, and Cheryl is from Jacob. So, regional appeal is at the heart of what the Ellises
ADAM TESTA
Come see and taste for yourself! The Bluffs tasting room is open from noon to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and noon to 8 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For more information, check out The Bluffs on Facebook or call 618-763-4447.
The Bluffs in Ava offers wine and beer in a remote setting with a view overlooking the Shawnee National Forest. In addition to their own vintages of wine, the winery sells several craft beers from local and national breweries. Owner Steve Ellis said the demand for craft beer continues to grow.
strive for — a fact that is not lost on visitors to their beautiful, spacious and friendly tasting room. How does all of this wine talk relate to beer? Along with being one of the premiere destinations for wine in Southern Illinois, The Bluffs also has been one of the biggest, and earliest, supporters of the burgeoning craft beer culture locally. “We have had Chuck’s (Chuck Stuhrenberg, owner of Big Muddy Brewing in Murphysboro) beers from the very beginning,” Steve says. “Big Muddy only had three beers then, and we had them all available from day one.” Big Muddy currently brews over a dozen different craft beers, and The Bluffs was instrumental in introducing many wine and beer lovers throughout the region to local craft beer for the first time. Now, The Bluffs is taking the passion for handcrafted libations to the next level by offering 10 different regional craft beers on draft from some of the best breweries in the Midwest, including Cathedral Square, Crown Valley, Excel, O’Fallon and Tallgrass. “We love to be on the ground floor of the local craft beer explosion,” Steve explains. “Our customers recognize the taps and tell their friends. Guests throughout the region have always supported us, so I’d like to think that we are supporting them in turn by focusing on small, Midwestern craft breweries.” The Bluffs Besides boasting more than a dozen award-winning Vineyard wines of its own and a craft beer selection that will make and Winery even the most discerning beer geek smile, The Bluffs 140 Buttermilk also features an array of seasonal parties, live music every Hill Road weekend and lots of weddings in its scenic location Ava, IL 62907 overlooking the Mississippi Valley. The view from The Bluffs is simply one of the best in the entire region, and, as Steve likes to say, “pictures just don’t do it justice.”
ADAM TESTA
find us
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.
Life & Style : Spring 2014 35
Leading Southern Illinois Lawyers
Justice Providers Douglas A. Antonik
Antonik Law Offices
Mount Vernon
618.244.5739
William L. Broom, III
Barrett Twomey Broom Hughes & Hoke LLP
Carbondale
618.457.0437
Patricia A. Hoke
Barrett Twomey Broom Hughes & Hoke LLP
Carbondale
618.457.0437
Kenneth R. Hughes
Barrett Twomey Broom Hughes & Hoke LLP
Carbondale
618.457.0437
Michael R. Twomey
Barrett Twomey Broom Hughes & Hoke LLP
Carbondale
618.457.0437
Mark J. Ballard
Black Hedin Ballard McDonald PC
Mount Vernon
618.242.3310
Terry R. Black
Black Hedin Ballard McDonald PC
Mount Vernon
618.242.3310
Aaron S. Carnine
Black Hedin Ballard McDonald PC
Mount Vernon
618.242.3310
Craig R. Hedin
Black Hedin Ballard McDonald PC
Mount Vernon
618.242.3310
Jerome E. McDonald
Black Hedin Ballard McDonald PC
Mount Vernon
618.242.3310
Kristine M. Tuttle
Black Hedin Ballard McDonald PC
Mount Vernon
618.242.3310
William Kent Brandon
Brandon Schmidt & Goffinet
Carbondale
618.549.0777
Jeffrey A. Goffinet
Brandon Schmidt & Goffinet
Carbondale
618.549.0777
Charles E. Schmidt
Brandon Schmidt & Goffinet
Carbondale
618.549.0777
Paul R. Lynch
Craig & Craig LLC
Mount Vernon
618.244.7511
Julie A. Webb
Craig & Craig LLC
Mount Vernon
618.244.7511
Kenneth F. Werts
Craig & Craig LLC
Mount Vernon
618.244.7511
Edward J. Kionka
Edward J Kionka Law Office
Carbondale
618.521.5555
Michael F. Dahlen
Feirich/Mager/Green/Ryan
Carbondale
618.529.3000
Thomas R. Frenkel
Feirich/Mager/Green/Ryan
Carbondale
618.529.3000
Richard A. Green
Feirich/Mager/Green/Ryan
Carbondale
618.529.3000
Cheryl Lynn Intravaia
Feirich/Mager/Green/Ryan
Carbondale
618.529.3000
Kevin L. Mechler
Feirich/Mager/Green/Ryan
Carbondale
618.529.3000
John S. Rendleman, III
Feirich/Mager/Green/Ryan
Carbondale
618.529.3000
John C. Ryan
Feirich/Mager/Green/Ryan
Carbondale
618.529.3000
Pieter N. Schmidt
Feirich/Mager/Green/Ryan
Carbondale
618.529.3000
Mark D. Hassakis
Hassakis & Hassakis PC
Mount Vernon
618.244.5335
Morris Lane Harvey
Law Offices of Morris Lane Harvey
Mount Vernon
618.244.9544
A. Ben Mitchell
Mitchell Law Office PC
Mount Vernon
618.242.0705
Mark D. Prince
Prince Law Firm
Marion
618.997.2111
John T. Hundley
The Sharp Law Firm PC
Mount Vernon
618.242.0246
Terry Sharp
The Sharp Law Firm PC
Mount Vernon
618.242.0246
John Womick
Womick Law Firm Chtd
Herrin/Carbondale
618.993.0911
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Insurance, Ins Coverage & Reinsurance; Med-Mal Defense; PI Defense: General; Products Liability Defens PI Defense: General; Work Comp Defense Work Comp Defense
Closely & Privately Held Business; Employment: Management; Gov’t/Municipal/Lobbying/Admin; Real Estate: Commercial Commercial Litigation; Employment: Management; Gov’t/Municipal/Lobbying/Admin; Med-Mal Defense; PI Defense: General PI Defense: General; Work Comp Defense
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Closely & Privately Held Business; Commercial Litigation; Mineral & Natural Resource; Trust, Will & Estate Planning Workers’ Compensation
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A lawyer CANNOT buy the distinction of being a Leading Lawyer. This distinction was earned by being among those lawyers who were most often recommended by their peers in statewide surveys. Respondents COULD NOT recommend themselves or lawyers at their law firm. For a complete list of all Leading Lawyers and to view profiles of the lawyers listed on this page, go to www.LeadingLawyers.com.
36 Life & Style : Spring 2014
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A Division of Law Bulletin Publishing Company–est. 1854
cover
Connections Making a difference in their communities
stories by Les O’Dell photography by Steve Matzker, Adam Testa and Lori Baysinger
he old adage says, “It’s not what you know but who you know.” Whether it’s true is a matter of debate, but one thing is certain: More knowledge often comes about by knowing more people, and knowing more people comes through being more involved. Across Southern Illinois, leaders of all ages and backgrounds are involved, learning things and making a difference in their communities and our region. They use their connections to help other people and to make Southern Illinois a better place. In this issue of Life and Style, we’re pleased to introduce you to four of these “connectors” and to share what they do and why. We are sure you will agree that they all are good people to know.
Life & Style : Spring 2014 37
cover
Diane Hood ‘... Because they are the right things to do!’
STEVE MATZKER
Diane Hood is comfortable in most situations. She is equally at home asking for donations for any number of charitable causes as she is helping customers at The Furniture King in Carbondale, where she works as manager. She’s eager to help children, women and the less fortunate, and she’s not afraid to take a stand for causes in which she believes. She is not, however, particularly fond of the attention all of her efforts sometimes garner her. “Sometimes it makes me uncomfortable,” the Carbondale resident says. “I don’t want people to think I do things because I want or need them to thank me for them. I just want to do things because they are the right things to do.” The list of what Hood does is quite lengthy and involves a large number of Southern Illinois organizations, some of which include Toys for Tots, Carbondale Community High School Foundation, Boys and Girls Club of Carbondale and The Women’s Center. “The first things I got involved in when we moved here 27 years ago were the things that my kids were doing,” she recalls. “I don’t often choose what to do; people just come up and ask me, then I say yes. I just really don’t feel like I want to say no. I see the need, and somebody’s got to do it.” Hood calls herself someone who cannot be uninvolved. “I think that some people feel like they don’t want to get involved or that they don’t know how to get involved. Sometimes I just jump in.”
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What she jumps into wholeheartedly are the things she really believes in, and she’s not afraid of a challenge. “I’m a person who becomes passionate over what feels right. Something happens to me or around me, and that’s when I feel that I need to do something. I don’t go out searching for things; usually things happen around me and then I get involved. I don’t like it when people say something can’t happen,” she says, expressing determination to do the seemingly impossible. She credits her employers Brad and Lori Weiss of The Furniture King for giving her the latitude to be involved in a number of causes and activities. “If it wasn’t for them allowing me the time to be out in the community and doing the things I do, I couldn’t do them,” she explains. “Of course, I’m representing the store and them when I do it, but they’re the kind of people who know it is the right thing to do, and they allow me to be out doing something.” But with all that she does, Hood would rather not be in the limelight. “What I enjoy most, I think, is the satisfaction of knowing that I’m helping people even when I don’t know who they are. It’s something that comes as a second-nature to me, and I like the anonymity of it. I get satisfaction in hoping that I made a difference. I don’t do these things because I want an award or recognition. In fact, I get a little embarrassed when people thank me. I don’t want to give the impression that I expect anything other than that you will, in turn, do something for somebody else,” she says.
‘I don’t want people to think I do things because I want or need them to thank me for them. I just want to do things because they are the — Diane Hood right things to do.’ Diane Hood helps pass out gifts for Toys for Tots of Carbondale.
Life & Style : Spring 2014 39
cover
Stan Irvin From getting convictions, to living his convictions rather, it’s below the radar, helping our neighbors.” A graduate of Marion High School and former student representative on Southern Illinois University Board of Trustees, Irvin prosecuted cases for 16 years, including two in Jackson County, six in Williamson County and eight in Brooklyn, often seeing what he calls “the worst in society and in people.” Still, he says, he tried to make a difference. It’s something he still is trying to do. “One of the purposes that every human hopefully comes to grips with is to go
beyond themselves and consider the world, then try to make it a better place, now and in the future. I’ve always felt that was important for all of us,” he says. Those feelings and a persistent call into ministry led Irvin to his change in career. The move from the courtroom to the sanctuary has been more than a change of careers. It also has made a change in Irvin. “It brought about a bit of a personal attitude change,” he says. “In prosecuting, your nature is more aggressive. You must have sort of a killer instinct, and then suddenly I was immersed into a culture of
ADAM TESTA
It’s a long way from the courtrooms of New York to the pulpit of Carrier Mills United Methodist Church, both literally and figuratively. But, for theRev. Stan Irvin, a former prosecutor in the Kings County New York District Attorney’s office, there are many similarities in the two seemingly very different places. “My feeling is that one of the things we have as individuals is a calling to a better society and to go beyond ourselves,” Irvin says. “For some, that is in a religious setting. For others, it is in a civic center. For some, it is nothing formal; but,
Stan Irvin, pastor of Carrier Mills United Methodist Church, prays for his congregation during a service. Irvin greets each church attendee before service begins, and he spends time afterward speaking to people.
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‘I still carry over to the sanctuary the skills I learned in the courtroom, such as conviction, letting people know what you believe, and persuasion. Plus, the juries I worked with were highly mixed ethnically, and that’s helped me work with people from different backgrounds.’
— Stan Irvin
love and forgiveness. It was both a culture and an attitude change.” He says the transition has made him more of a complete person, and he’s still able to use some of the same skills he learned as a prosecutor. “I still carry over to the sanctuary the skills I learned in the courtroom, such as conviction, letting people know what you believe, and persuasion. Plus, the juries I worked with were highly mixed ethnically, and that’s helped me work with people from different backgrounds.” Working with a wide range of people and projects, he’s made nine trips to Nicaragua to volunteer at an orphanage, and he serves on several United Methodist conference committees. He also is striving to teach members of his congregation to consider those less fortunate. “We do a cardboard campout, where teens spend the night in a cardboard box and hear from the director of the homeless shelter in Harrisburg,” he says, giving one example of daily awareness and service. “If a church is centered solely on Sunday morning, we’re not meeting the direction of Jesus to make disciples.” Irvin credits his parents and his faith for giving him a desire to serve others. “My parents tried to instill in me to help people in a variety of ways, and Jesus’ teaching centered on loving others and being sacrificial to others,” he explains. It is part of his desire to live a full life. “If I’m still fortunate to be alive in my 90s, I don’t want to look back and wish I would have done things differently or helped more,” he says. “I want to live life as fully as possible and to enjoy life by helping others. My goal is to be worn out by service to people and to God.”
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cover
Linda Mitacek ‘I have a passion for people.’
In 2005, the service organization Kiwanis International changed its motto from “We Build” to “Serving the Children of the World.” Even though Harrisburg club member Linda Mitacek most likely was not consulted about the selection of either saying, she is a shining example of both. The retired schoolteacher and mother of two adult children has been instrumental in serving children as well as helping her community rebuild after the 2012 Leap Day tornado. Additionally, she volunteers at Bridge Medical Clinic, a health care facility that serves individuals without insurance coverage. She’s a former city commissioner and has been a member of the board for Christian Community Compassion Center. “I want to make a positive difference,” Mitacek says of her service. “I think I’m a caring person. Time is a resource I have a lot of, and I choose not to close my doors and stay inside. I choose to open them and give back.” Over the years, Mitacek has given back to her community in a variety of ways, often through her membership in Kiwanis. During a time when she was responsible for membership growth, the club’s rolls increased by about 25 percent. Club activity and service also increased. Following the tornado, with her help, the local organization received a $5,000 grant from Kiwanis to assist children affected by the storm. As a member of Project STORM, she assisted
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‘I want to make a positive difference ... I think I’m a caring person. Time is a resource I have a lot of, and I choose not to close my doors and stay inside. I choose to open them and give back.’
with relief efforts and the distribution of aid to tornado victims totaling more than $100,000. Through all of her efforts, Mitacek has remained humble. “I’ve been blessed to work with a lot of wonderful people to do positive things for our community, putting the pieces back together,” she says. She even oversaw city streets and public improvements as a city commissioner from 2007 to 2011. “It really opened my eyes to the needs in our community,” she says. Mitacek says her helping nature can be traced to growing up on a farm where “there always was something to do,” and it’s just part of her personality. “Even as a child, I was a fixer,” she explains. “Other children would come to me, and I tried to make things better.” It is something she has never outgrown, even after teaching at the high school level for more than 20 years and more than 10 years as a college instructor. “After teaching for more than 30 years, I guess I’ve impacted hundreds of people,” she says. “I’ve never stopped to count them. I had a passion for teaching, and I guess I have a passion for people.” Mitacek says she has no intention of stopping her service to the community. “I’m keeping busy doing what I’m doing right now,” she says. “I’m even thinking about going back into education. I realize how, online, I could teach anywhere, any time. I could do that. No matter what, I’m going to just try to work with people and do things that are beneficial to the community and the area.”
Linda Mitacek of Harrisburg knows community service. She’s an active member of Kiwanis International, served on the city council, played a large part in her hometown’s recovery after the Leap Day 2012 tornado and volunteers with other organizations, including Bridge Medical Clinic.
ADAM TESTA
— Linda Mitacek
Life & Style : Spring 2014 43
cover
Jeff Speith He’s banking on changing lives
For Jeff Speith of Carterville, being involved is all about matching needs and resources, as well as people, with one another. “A lot of what I do is making connections,” he says both of his work as president of Old National Bank and of his efforts on behalf of organizations ranging from civic groups to educational foundations. “You put people together and you try to make connections that benefit both sides.” Speith says all that he does at work and after-hours is about giving back. “Banking, in general and if you do it right, should be focused on giving back,” he explains. “It is ingrained in our culture, and we are always looking for opportunities. It’s the same in life.” He gives back in a variety of ways. He says he was first drawn to being a part of Kiwanis because of the organization’s focus on children. He’s also served on boards for American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, The H Group, Boys and Girls Club of Carbondale and more. He has helped raise money with Southern Illinois University Foundation for the Saluki Way project, he is working with John A. Logan College Foundation, and he also is raising money for Southern Illinois Healthcare’s new cancer treatment center.
‘A lot of what I do is making connections. You put people together and you try to make connections that benefit both sides ... It’s more about just listening, developing relationships with other people that they wouldn’t be able to do on their own.’ — Jeff Speith
44 Life & Style : Spring 2014
ADAM TESTA
Speith says he was reluctant to involve himself in fundraising projects until he realized that soliciting donations also is about making connections. “As I’ve spent more time fundraising with no experience, I realize it’s just like anything else. It’s putting people together,” he explains. “For example, I know we’ve made connections when we’ve found someone who was passionate about fighting and curing cancer, and they are not only willing to do it, but they jump at the chance when you show them how to help do it. You realize that what you’ve done is you have connected two people together with a common interest. It’s been fun to go and try to listen to people when they talk about what they are passionate about and then to say, you know what I’m working on, and would you like to talk to so and so, and before you know it you have two people talking who never talked before, and you’ve helped out both sides. That feels good.” For Speith, passion has to be a key ingredient of any undertaking. “Ultimately, it has to be enough of a passion for you to do it,” he says. “At the end of the day, there has to be enough passion that you really feel you want to do it. Otherwise, you’re just going through the motions, and you’re not doing yourself any good. You might as well just spend the time in something you’ve got a passion for; otherwise, you’re just wasting your time and theirs. “What I’ve come to have the most passion about is not any one particular cause or charity. It’s more about just listening, developing relationships with other people that they wouldn’t be able to do on their own.” And, to Speith, that’s how connections are made.
Jeff Speith, president of Old National Bank in Carbondale, talks with Wadean Booker. Speith strives to create a friendly environment in the workplace and develop a culture of giving among his employees. The banking industry at its core, he said, is about giving back.
Life & Style : Spring 2014 45
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service Get involved If you’re looking to become more connected with the Sierra Club, visit www.illinois. sierraclub.org/shawnee/ projects for a full list of ongoing initiatives. Here are a few to pique your interest.
ADAM TESTA
Shawnee National Forest Volunteer Days
Barb McKasson of Carbondale, chairwoman of the Shawnee Group of the Sierra Club, displays one of the group’s official 2014 calendars at a December meeting.
Sierra Club Shawnee Group
focuses on connecting people to our natural surroundings
story by Joe Szynkowski Southern Illinois is home to a wondrous expanse of natural beauty, as well as a population that, in general, loves to take it all in. The region’s local chapter of the Sierra Club is focused on connecting the two. “We have so many events that are really designed to get people out into nature,” Chairwoman Barb McKasson said. “There is just so much out there to see.” Southern Illinoisans will have to wait until next year to experience the group’s most popular annual event, the New Year’s Day Stone Soup Picnic at Giant City Park. The picnic is free and open to the public. It gives people the opportunity to help make and eat vegetarian soup cooked over a camp fire. “We have been doing it forever,” McKasson said. “It is really a great event for everyone young and old.”
The Stone Soup Picnic kicked off a busy 2014 for the club, which is celebrating the 50th year of the Federal Wilderness Act. The other 14 statewide chapters also will mark the monumental legislation with special gatherings, interactive events and educational programming. The local chapter is offering special outings throughout Shawnee National Forest and Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. Events will include hikes, trail walks, photography exhibits and other activities designed to connect people with the great outdoors. Illinois’ 25,000 Sierra Club members are involved in national campaigns of the Sierra Club that affect the environment of Southern Illinois. The club also has set up a Frack Fight Team to provide a strong voice of opposition to local legislators and gas companies.
Every fall and spring, the Shawnee releases a schedule of work days focused on new trail building, reconstruction of existing trails and trail clearing. The Shawnee Sierra, as well as other local groups, is heavily involved in the volunteer days. Interested community members are urged to register by phone to verify the date and time of the event.
Adopt-A-Trailhead Project
Sierra Club links up with local volunteers to adopt a trailhead and visit it at least once a month to make sure it is being utilized properly, and to report any damage or vandalism. Reach out to the Shawnee chapter to adopt a trailhead.
Southern Illinois Weed Watch Project
Sierra Club, among other environmental groups, gathers and assigns volunteers to specific natural areas to survey and pull invasive species. Each volunteer is trained and assigned an area.
Shawnee Forest Water Sentinels
As part of a chapter-wide Sierra project, the Shawnee group trains volunteers to take water samples from lakes and creeks to test for pollution. Individuals are assigned an area to work on their own schedule.
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style
What’s the hottest accessory this season?
Ditch clunky jewelry in favor of sparkling necklines, studded shoulders and other details that take the “excess” out of accessorizing. The embellished sweater trend is part of the fashion world’s contemporary affinity for laidback luxury. While boyfriend jeans are a casual way to stylishly spend the day in comfort, the embellished sweater takes a seemingly basic article of clothing (the sweater) and adds glamour points by the dozens with color, texture and shine. Keep the overall vibe feminine, yet understated, by wearing these tops with fitted bottoms. Skinny jeans and pencil skirts are easy options. — Rana Daunis
2
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4
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1. Gianni Bini Inna Spiked Sweater, $89, Dillard’s 2. Alfred Dunner Striped Beaded-Yolk Sweater, $64, JCPenney 3. 3/4 Sleeve Top with Embellished Neck, $375, Rebecca Taylor 4. Tan Jay Petites Embellished Faux-Suede Jacket, $78, Dillard’s 5. Dolman-Sleeve Embellished Dip-Dye Sweater, $89.50, Macy’s 6. TopShop Embellished Neck Sweater, $92, Nordstrom 7. Embroidered Party Cardigan, $54, American Eagle 8. McGinn Maria Beaded Collar Jacket, $420, Nordstrom
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entertainment
‘Blues DNA’
Richard ‘Rip Lee’ Pryor follows in his father’s footsteps while walking in his own path
STEVE MATZKER
story by Adam Testa
50 Life & Style : Spring 2014
Sometimes, to truly appreciate the present, one has to understand the past. For Carbondale musician Richard “Rip Lee” Pryor, life’s story contains three main chapters: a childhood wrapped in rhythmic blues, an adult life focused on career success, and a second lease on life when everything really began to click. Born in Chicago in 1958 to renowned blues artist Snooky Pryor, he most certainly was a daddy’s boy, emulating his father every chance he got. “I was just infatuated with what my dad did,” Pryor said. “I just tried mimicking his records.” Picking up his dad’s old harmonicas and playing along with records, Pryor could feel the rhythm flowing through his blood. The blues were built into his DNA, and a future in music seemed inevitable. When Pryor turned 10, his family moved away from the city, planting roots deep in the state in Pulaski County. Years passed. And, having settled in Southern Illinois, his father walked away from music. By 1994, however, Pryor, now in his mid-30s, persuaded his dad to step back into the saddle. Pryor had started building a reputation of his own, playing venues across the region, and his dad picked up his instruments one more time to play with his son. In the following years, the father-son duo recorded an album, “Mind Your Own Business,” and toured Japan. Pryor felt on top of the world. “That was the highlight of me playing with him,” he said. The fun continued for a little while, and the two recorded a second album, “Pitch a Boogie Woogie.” But, as they say, nothing gold can last forever. As the new millennium rolled around, Pryor decided to take a break from the music business. Music, which had played such an instrumental role in his upbringing and early adult life, would be moved to the backburner. Richard ‘Rip Lee’ Pryor performs at The Grotto in Carbondale.
ADAM TESTA
Pryor yearned to be just like his father, renowned blues musician Snooky Pryor. The two recorded and toured together in the 1990s, but when his father returned to retirement, Pryor decided to focus on his own career. After retiring from his job as a carpenter at SIU and battling cancer, Pryor returned to the music scene in 2011. He has since completed three tours of South America and one of Switzerland, as well as reconnected with the Southern Illinois music scene.
ADAM TESTA
In 1979, Pryor had begun work as a carpenter at Southern Illinois University and decided to focus more on his career and planning for retirement. There’d be plenty of time for music once that day came, he told himself. “I just wanted to finish up my day job,” he said. “I was going to pick it back up when I retired. That was the plan anyway.” In August 2008, the university honored Pryor and 133 other retirees with a special reception. The working world was in Pryor’s rearview mirror, and the road ahead was wide open. Pryor, though, didn’t stick to life’s original road map. Rather than returning to the music scene like he’d promised himself he would, Pryor turned to gambling, which would consume his life for the next two years, keeping him away from the machination of music making. Then, one day, in one instant, everything changed. “I got a rude awakening in life,” he said, “and that was the big C.” Cancer struck in May 2010, when Pryor was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, a form of bone marrow cancer. The diagnosis shocked Pryor and caused him to reevaluate his life. “I didn’t know if I was going to make it,” he said. “It was like, if I make it, I’m going to play music because that’s where my heart was at, and that’s what I wanted to do.” Early the next year, Pryor entered remission. Cancer-free, he upheld his promise to himself this time and booked his first gig in several years at The Underground in Carbondale.
Playing only a short 45-minute set, Pryor was back on the scene; but, with his health still in recovery, he knew he had to take it slow. He built up his stamina and soon returned to full headlining sets. And not just in Southern Illinois. Modern technologies allowed Pryor opportunities his father, Richard ‘Rip Lee’ Pryor has a collection of musical memorabilia who died in 2006, never on display in his Carbondale home. He has collected harmonicas, had. Through Facebook, microphones and other odds and ends, including some that he connected with Adrian belonged to his father, Snooky Pryor. Flores, a South American musician who wanted to meet Pryor. above, a father proud of his son. And, for Facebook conversations turned into a the son, it’s an honor to keep the father’s musical adventure, as Pryor completed legacy alive. three tours of South America from 2011 “To me, it’s just carrying on the to 2013. He also ventured to Switzerland, tradition,” Pryor said. “I play a lot of his where he will return later this year. style, so it’s keeping him alive.” When he’s not jet-setting across the Now that Pryor has reconnected with globe, Pryor generally can be found his musical roots, the next chapter of his somewhere around Southern Illinois. life’s story remains a mystery. Ask him, The region’s wineries and venues offer an and he’ll say he just wants to continue eclectic mix for a blues artist and create a entertaining people wherever the winds of special vibe for the area, he said. his journey take him. Wherever he goes, Pryor “I’ve got a second lease on life, entertains audiences of all kinds. and I’m just glad I can do it,” he It’s not hard to imagine that said. “I feel good doing it, and it there’s an audience of one makes me feel good to have looking down from someone enjoy what I do and make them smile. You can tell when they genuinely enjoy what you’re doing; that’s the fuel that keeps me going.”
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scenic beauty
Mermet Lake
A magical habitat that blooms with features on all sides story and photography by Les Winkeler At first glance, Massac County’s Mermet Lake offers little in terms of aesthetic beauty. It is an artificial bowl, surrounded by rip rap on three sides. But, like the epic novel with a nondescript cover, the deeper you delve into Mermet Lake, the more you appreciate its subtleties. Although relatively small, the lake is just 690 acres, Mermet encompasses several worlds. And, Mermet Lake changes radically with each season. However, spring and early summer at Mermet are particularly magical. Much of the shallow lake is covered by lotus plants. The plants bloom in late spring and early summer, turning the surface of the lake into a quilt of yellow and white flowers floating on a bed of emerald green leaves. The sweet aroma of the blossoms fills the air much like walking into a florist’s shop. Seeing hundreds of acres of lotus pods in bloom is in itself worth the drive to Mermet Lake. However, the lake offers so much more, particularly in the spring. A gravel road carries visitors around the entire lake, transporting flora and fauna fanciers into several different worlds. The proximity of the road to both the lake and the various types of habitat surrounding the water provides prime wildlife viewing opportunities. The north side of the lake is surrounded by a stand of mature hardwoods.
to get there Mermet Lake is just off U.S. 45 in Massac County, south of Vienna and north of Metropolis. There are brown state recreation signs along the highway directing visitors to the lake.
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In the spring, this area provides incredible birding opportunities. Various types of birds, ranging from woodpeckers to warblers call this area home. From a perch on the levee road, visitors can scan forest, shallow and open water habitats without moving. It’s possible to see prothonotary warblers, common moorhens, osprey, eagles, great blue herons, great egrets and double-crested cormorants from one spot. The habitat shifts slightly as the visitor continues to the west side of the lake. Early in the spring the flooded timber on the west side of the lake holds large concentrations of blue-winged teal and ringnecks. On the wooded side of the road, herons and egrets roost in the trees or fish the shallow waters. In the meantime, herons, egrets and cormorants fish in great numbers on the lake side. The south east side of the lake is a totally different world. The wooded side of the road is a cypress-tupelo swamp, a habitat that attracts different species of birds. Finally, the east side of the lake is surrounded by fields and some flooded woodland. Deer, turkey, raccoon, opossum and other sightings are common. There are a pair of boat ramps on this side of the lake. The southernmost boat launch also contains a picnic area and a couple of wooden piers. The piers provide up close and personal access to Canada geese and their fledglings, and place the visitor smack dab in the middle of small lotus fields. Finally, as the visitor approaches the northeast corner of the lake, the vast fields of lotus flowers appear. It’s a perfect way to end a Mermet visit.
Mermet Lake is a magical place that attracts all types of wildlife and wildlife enthusiasts. Much of the lake is covered by lily pads, which attract dragon flies and provide habitat for anglers, from great egrets and humans. And, in late spring and early summer, the lotus blossoms add a vibrant color and sweet aroma to the lake.
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gadgets HP Sleekbook 15 The Sleekbook 15 is a thin, light and good-looking computer with a widescreen format that allows for a full-size keyboard plus a number pad. The Sleekbook is about an inch and a half wider and a pound lighter than a 15-inch Macbook Pro. The all-plastic body seems sturdy, with no discernible flex when closed or picked up with one hand. HP is positioning the Sleekbook between smaller and less powerful netbooks and its more full-featured laptops. The Sleekbook gets its sleekness from the lack of an optical drive, which lets HP make the laptop thinner. The Sleekbook has three USB ports, including one USB 3.0 port; an Ethernet port; a full-size HDMI out; an SD card reader; and a headphone jack. The 4-cell lithium-ion battery is on the small side, so you may want to invest in a spare. Wi-Fi is included, but Blue-tooth is a $15 upgrade. Also included are an HD webcam and built-in microphone. The Sleekbook ships with Windows 8 64-bit, and the Windows 8 Pro 64-bit version is available as an upgrade. This would be a perfect PC for students, as it’s thin and fairly light and would drop into any backpack with ease. It would also be a great laptop for around-the-house use. Price: $480, hp.com — McClatchy-Tribune News
Tablets and netbooks and laptops,
oh my!
With so many options for portable electronics on the market, choosing the best one to meet one’s needs can be a daunting challenge. From tablets to netbooks to laptops, the possibilities are plentiful, and it’s easy to become lost in the myriad of specifications, capabilities and requirements of each device. But with some simple advice and guidance, the shopping process can be simplified. Scott Peach, information technology coordinator for The Southern Illinoisan, helps break down the advantages and limitations of each device. Tablets: “These are really better for people doing things that don’t really require a lot of typing,” Peach
said. On-screen keyboards are often cumbersome to deal with, especially if writing documents longer than a quick email. The devices, though, are also a lightweight option equipped with strong batteries offering long charges. They can also be connected with the same accounts as a cell phone, allowing connectivity between the two, if a device with the same operation system is selected (i.e. an iPad to pair with an iPhone or a Android-enabled tablet to pair with an Android smartphone). “They’re the best at being most portable and convenient,” Peach said. Netbooks: These devices are designed to look like a smaller laptop
Which one is right for you? It depends on what you need it to do
and, in many cases, aren’t much larger than a tablet. “They tend to have the portability of a tablet but with the added benefit of a keyboard,” Peach said. Netbooks are relatively low powered and don’t offer an abundance of amenities. Some may be capable of running a simple word-processing program, but they’re really designed to access Internet-based applications and programs. Google Chromebooks, the most popular form of netbook, are built exclusively for online use, only running the Chrome browser. This works well for those who just want a device to check email and use social media on the road, but its
Life & Style : Spring 2014 55
gadgets practical uses are limited beyond basic online functions, especially in situations where Wi-Fi isn’t available, rendering the product useless, Peach said. Laptops: For those who want to take their data and projects on the road, laptops remain the best choice. “If you’re not going to have a good Internet connection where you’re at, your laptop will still hold all your music, movies and whatever else,” Peach said. Laptops are capable of running more programs than tablets and netbooks, mimicking a home or officebased computer. The downsides to laptops are their size, which makes them less portable, and their cost, though Peach notes there are lower-end laptops available for around the same price as a higher-end tablet. Many users don’t need the highest-powered laptop they can find, either, he said. “Most of them are probably going to be fine with lowerend specifications,” Peach said. No matter which device – or devices – one chooses to buy, he advises selecting one operating system and sticking with it across devices to make the best use of the electronics. Programs like iTunes and certain apps will transfer between accounts on the same operating system (i.e. Apple iOS or Windows), which will save a lot of hassle. “You don’t want to have to re-buy all your games or songs,” Peach said. While it’s a matter of personal preference, he said iOS tends to be the most new-user friendly, at least in his opinion. “You may pay more, but they’re definitely easier to learn,” Peach said. — Adam Testa
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Amazon Kindle Fire HDX The newest member of the Kindle Fire family is 7-inch HDX. The HDX uses its own variation of the Android operating system called Fire OS 3.0 (Mojito).You can’t run just any Android app on a Kindle, as Amazon approves all apps for its device. All the usual apps are there, but don’t expect hundreds of thousands of apps like at the iPad app store. Amazon’s big feature is your content. When you buy a Kindle, they preload your Amazon account so that when you power it up, your books, movies and music are all there. Price: $229, amazon.com
Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 8.0 Samsung’s small tablet has a bigger screen than many of its comparable competitors. It also has the most storage options, as it’s the only tablet with a microSD card slot to add storage. The Galaxy Tab runs Android version 4.2.2 (Jelly Bean) with a dual-core 1.5 GHz processor. One very nice feature is an IR blaster, which lets the tablet act as a remote control for your TV. The Samsung WatchOn app is included and provides guide data and control for most TVs. The Galaxy Tab is solidly built and has everything most people look for in a tablet, including features others don’t offer like the external storage. While it isn’t the sexiest tablet around, the Galaxy Tab is a great choice if you’re an Android fan and use Google’s ecosystem for music and apps. Price: $249, samsung.com
Samsung Google Chromebook Netbooks are often legacy-free, meaning they lack older technology-compatible ports and drives. Indeed, the Samsung Chromebook has no hard drive, optical drive or Ethernet and no VGA or DVI port. The Chromebook is designed to be used while the user is online. Google’s operating system is designed to stay out of your way. Most of the time you are in Chrome, so the experience is a familiar one. Users access and save all their documents to the cloud. Instead of loading up an Office suite, Chromebook users access Google Docs for word processing and spreadsheets. Obviously, Web browsing and email are done online, as are Internet chatting and even storing your digital photos. Google includes 100 gigabytes of online storage for two years. If you know the Chromebook’s limitations, and you’re confident you’ll be online the vast majority of the time, you’ll find a lot to like here. Price: $250 at Best Buy
MacBook Pro with Retina Display The 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display is available in several configurations. For those who don’t know, the Retina-model MacBook Pros don’t have an optical drive. Apple makes the most of that loss and made the Retina as thin and light as possible. The Retina is so thin there is no room for an Ethernet port, as it’s too tall to fit inside the case. There are available Thunderbolt dongles for adding a FireWire 800 or gigabit Ethernet port. Battery life for the 2013 Retina is up to nine hours for wireless Web surfing or movie playback and up to 30 days of standby time. Ports include two USB 3.0 ports, two Thunderbolt 2 ports, a headphone jack, HDMI out and an SD card slot. Wireless connectivity is through 802.11 Wi-Fi that includes the new, faster AC band and Bluetooth 4.0. The smaller screen size may be an issue for users who use their computers throughout the day, but larger size screens are available at higher price points. Price: $1,299, apple.com
iPad Mini Apple finally updated its popular iPad Mini with a retina display — and gave its speed a good bump, too. Basically, the new iPad Air was shrunk down to fit inside the Mini. The Air and the Mini are virtually identical under the hood, only the screen size is different. The Mini screen is beautiful, but in a side-by-side comparison with the original, there’s not enough distinction to run out and buy the new Mini based solely on the retina display, if you already own an older model. The reason to upgrade would be the new A7 processor, which is tons faster and future-proof for several years. Price: $399, apple.com
Microsoft Surface The Microsoft Surface tablet shares a lot of features with the iPad but has a few laptop-like tricks up its sleeve. The Surface with Windows RT is a nice combination of quality hardware and innovative software. Windows RT is a somewhat limited version of Windows. The Surface is also available with a full version of Windows 8 Pro. RT users are limited to apps bought through the Windows App Store, while Pro users can use any Windows desktop apps on their Surface. RT comes with Microsoft Office Home and Student RT so users can work with Word, Excel and PowerPoint documents with ease. The RT versions of the Office apps are optimized for the touch interface. In addition to the touch interface, the Surface has an actual pointer, an arrow that moves around the screen by using a mouse or trackpad. The addition of a pointer is a game-changer. It’s what gives the Surface the potential to run all Windows apps, not just those designed for a touch interface. It works beautifully. There are front- and rear-facing 720p cameras and two microphones. Ports include a full-size USB 2.0 and micro SDXC card slot and HD video out. The Surface stands on its own as a tablet, but in my opinion, it really shines with the keyboard. The keyboards don’t need batteries and don’t have an on-off switch. The Touch cover is flat, with keys that don’t really move, but they do respond a lot better than expected. The Type cover has actual plastic keys and it’s easy to type. Price: $499, microsoftstore.com — McClatchy-Tribune News
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at work
AT WORK John Paul Dunn John Paul Dunn’s life has always been connected to technology. Having an interest in “techy stuff” from an early age, he decided to focus his education and career on the industry. He attended SIU Carbondale and pursued two bachelor’s degrees in electronics. “It just seemed appropriate to steer my career in that direction,” said Dunn, learning management system administration for the Center for Teaching Excellence at SIU. “I was one of those people who graduated and never left.” Dunn started working full time at the CTE in the late 1990s and picked up a master’s degree in educa-tion along the way. In his job, he helps administer the implementation of Internet-based classroom curriculum, ranging from completely online courses to digital programming supplementing traditional face-to-face classes. In 1998, the university offered a half a dozen or so online courses. Now, more than 3,000 are available and students can pursue a degree exclusively through digital enrollment. Dunn is responsible for making sure it all works. While most of his work emanates from his office on the main level of Morris Library, Dunn also spends time working closer with students, teaching freshman-level courses. “I love being in a classroom,” he said. The job offers flexibility and an always evolving challenge, Dunn said. As technology changes, there are always ways to improve or change things. Whether at work or at home, technology continues to play a prominent role in Dunn’s daily life. “I just really can’t imagine my life without computers,” he said. “Every day I have my hands on a piece of technology.” — story and photography by Adam Testa
Collections of fun Dunn has amassed a collection of Beanie Babies stuffed animals — accidentally. A friend knew of his penguin collection but bought a different kind of animal. As people started seeing that one on his desk, they kept giving him more. Now he keeps them around because they’re fun, he said.
Kid at heart Toys and items line the shelves of Dunn’s office. This item with a digital display face was a promotional item for a campaign Dunn worked on.
Penguin fascination Dunn’s interest in penguins began with Christmas ornaments as a child. He found himself attracted to penguins and mice, and as he grew up, he started buying penguin items. ‘I had one or two of them, and then it became three or four,’ he said. ‘I have about 50 penguins at home and four or five in here.’ For Christmas, he had an 8-foot inflatable penguin in the yard of his Makanda home.
Married life Dunn married Jennifer on Oct. 26, 2013. She works as the assistant head bookkeeper at Anna State Bank. The couple lives in Makanda.
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Gifts These items were gifts from graduate assistants from their native countries of Colombia and India.
Book and technology Dunn received two undergraduate degrees in electronics and a master’s degree in education from SIU. Technology and computers have been an interest since childhood. These are among the many books and reference guides lining his bookshelf. ‘I just can’t imagine my life without computers,’ he said. This brick (below) came from the old Morris Library, where Dunn worked from 1995 to 2004, when the building was renovated. During the remodeling process, staff were given tours of the facility, and Dunn grabbed the brick from a pile of rubble. ‘I got permission to keep it,’ he said.
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PROVIDED BY ED DIRKS
history
Repeating the past Military re-enactors defy the saying and forge a strong bond with our history
THE SOUTHERN FILE PHOTO
story by Adam Testa
Ed Dirks of Makanda had a cameo in the 1989 movie ‘Glory’ starring Matthew Broderick (top), which depicts the Battle of Antietam in the Civil War. The image comes from a collectible book of stills from the movie Dirks and others received for their participation. The scene was filmed in Georgia. Civil War re-enactors (above) of Company C of the 31st Illinois Volunteer Infantry provide a rifle volley during the Carbondale Memorial Day Service at Woodlawn Cemetery.
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In his 1905 writing “The Life of Reason,” Spanish philosopher and poet George Santayana penned the oft-quoted phrase, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” A warning to future generations to learn from history’s abundant experiences, the phrase has become a call of politicians and activists for generations. But, for those who embrace the past and choose to celebrate its legacy, the thought of repeating the past isn’t necessarily such a negative one. Each year, men and women from Southern Illinois and across
the country pay tribute to their predecessors and help keep their stories alive by participating in historic re-enactments and tributes. Often times, these events focus around military battles and skirmishes, but many simply recreate daily life during years past. John Gulley of Sesser and Ed Dirks of Makanda have very different roots and experiences in their re-enactment tenures, but both share a passion for the hobby and an interest in preserving history and sharing it with others. Raised in New Salem, near Springfield, in the heart of Abraham Lincoln country, Gulley was a late entrant to re-enacting,
PROVIDED BY JOHN GULLEY AND ED DIRKS
This tin-type photograph (above) depicts re-enactors John Gulley (left) and David Thery at the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Shiloh. Tin-type photos were common during the Civil War and depicted generals and prominent war figures. Ed Dirks (color photo, right) of Makanda has participated in historic re-enactments since 1975 and has been an extra in several prominent film projects. His son, Peter, born in 1982, often tagged along with his dad.
stepping onto the battlefield for the first time older than most generals who served during the Civil War. Barely old enough to be digging deep into American history classes in high school, a 15-year-old Gulley accompanied his cousin on a re-enactment outing, finding he was the youngest one around. Both men, despite the different circumstances, found themselves facing a similar future. “I never looked back,” Gulley said. It was an interesting experience. I started there, and I haven’t stopped.” Dirks’ journeys took him across the country, joining different groups of reenactors from all reaches of the country, coming together just as soldiers did 150 years ago when the Union battled the Confederacy. He rode with Company C of the Illinois 31st, a re-enactment troop based out of Southern Illinois, and the statewide Logan’s Brigade. “We went everywhere,” Dirks said, naming places such as Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee and Missouri. “Re-enactments started popping up everywhere.” Twenty-five years ago, he joined a group of about 50 others in traveling between cites, marking the 125th anniversary of the War Between the States. Lately, he’s had to slow down, but he made a special trip to Gettysburg last year for the 150th anniversary celebration.
While many of Dirks’ travels have been solely for pleasure, some have proved to be worthwhile and profitable, as well. Given his reputation among re-enactors, the Makanda man had the opportunity to participate in the filming of several television and movie projects, including 1989’s “Glory,” starring Matthew Broderick, Cary Elwes and Morgan Freeman; the miniseries “North and South;” and Patrick Swayze’s “The Blue and the Gray.” “That was pretty interesting. When I watch these movies now, I look at them a little different; it’s almost as if I’m backstage,” he said. “It’s amazing how much filming you do compared to what you actually see. We filmed for two or three weeks, and it was about four or five minutes on screen.” While Gulley hasn’t shared the fields of war with Academy Award-winning actors, he’s had more than his share of memorable moments in his reenacting career. While his forte is the Civil War, including joining Dirks at the Gettysburg anniversary last year, Gulley has branched out into other eras of the past, as well, including the Blackhawk and French and Indian wars. He’s dressed for combat in Nova Scotia, Canada, and helped defend the Alamo in Texas. These trips have allowed him the opportunity to visit a plethora of historic sites in a unique fashion, rather than taking a simple vacation. There are no
hotels or continental breakfasts when these men are on the re-enactment route; they’re sleeping outside in periodauthentic tents and cooking beans and rice over an open fire. “It’s not your typical leisurely weekend like people tend to think it is,” Gulley said. Re-enacting proves to be a hobby not suited for everyone. The physicality of the events paired with the expense of getting started — authentic gear can cost thousands of dollars for clothes, weaponry and accessories — scare some people away. But Gulley and Dirks both advise that if someone is going to do it, they do it right. “Don’t assume because you see something on television that it’s historically accurate,” Gulley said. “Do your research.” And part of that research is determining what role to play. Every war has two sides, and there are an abundance of non-military roles to be played, from housewives to musicians and medical staff to everyday civilians. The opportunities are nearly endless. Those who are inclined to embrace and relive history, rather than feel doomed to repeat it, find a great sense of reward in recreating and connecting with years gone by. The re-enactment and historic tribute arena offers something for everyone willing to take a chance and invest in the past. “There are certainly a lot of angles to it,” Dirks said. “People just need to get out and find their own.”
Life & Style : Spring 2014 63
décor
AP
Bringing
2014 home Coolest colors with trendy pops
Whisper-soft, ultra-pale shades of pink — described by designers as “blush tones” — are back. But the ’80s haven’t returned, says designer Brian Patrick Flynn says, at least not entirely. “What’s different about blush this time around is what it’s paired with. In 1985, you’d find it paired with mauve and black with tons of shiny brass accents. Flash forward to today and blush is likely to be paired with preppy, masculine tones,” says Flynn, founder of Flynnside Out Productions. His favorite blush paint is Barely Blush from Glidden, which he contrasts with navy blue: “The deep, rich personality of the navy actually washes out the blush,
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A new year come new trends in home design and decorating. Among them: Paler walls contrasted with colorful furniture and plenty of personal expression, local and TV experts say
almost causing it to look white, and the overall effect is fresh and gorgeous.” Angela Rowe, interior designer and owner of Decorating Den in Harrisburg also likes the idea of pairing a bolder color with softer, pale colors. “Radiant Orchid is the 2014 Color of the Year as selected by the Color Marketing Group,” she says. “This soft purplish-pink looks great paired with today’s hot neutrals of gray and taupe. Rowe, who last fall attended the International Home Furnishings Market in High Point, N.C., saw the color used in numerous ways. “Last year’s Color of the Year — Tangerine Orange — was still shown in abundance,” Rowe says. “It, too, works well
with gray and another popular trend, black and white.” But while wall colors are getting softer and paler, the opposite seems to be happening with furniture.
Bolder furniture
“Strong colors on upholstery are becoming more of the norm,” says Kyle Schuneman, founder of Live Well Designs, who spent a chunk of 2013 designing his first line of furniture, in collaboration with retailer Apt2B. He opted to create sofas in bright blues and shades of orange because “a bright sofa is no longer just for a creative office waiting room,” he says. “People are bringing them into their homes.”
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Nationally known designer Brian Patrick Flynn created a tween girl’s room (left) for HGTV.com that features the a shade of red-violet similar to the Pantone Color of the Year for 2014. Flynn suggests pairing the color with neutrals like white and black to make it a bit lighter and more playful. A guest bedroom (above) by the designer Flynn featured on Hayneedle.com uses a muted shade of blush on the walls and ceiling. Flynn suggests blush tones will become popular in 2014, but to add a fresh touch, they’ll be paired with masculine tones such as navy blue.
One bold color to approach carefully this year: red-violet. “Red-violet is the Pantone color of the year for 2014,” Flynn says. “As a designer whose specialty is using color, let me tell you something: Red-violet is about as complex as it gets.” “My trick for using it right is pairing it with black, white and brass,” he says. “It’s not all that overwhelming, since it’s balanced by the neutrality of the black and white, and made a bit more chic and regal with the brass.”
Accessories
“For accessories, the trend seems to be getting away from color and going more into rich textures like horn, aged metallics and linens,” Schuneman says. “The absence of color is becoming chic for smaller items.” And speaking of accents, Rowe saw some beauties at the home show. “Current trends point toward the old adage that lighting is jewelry for the home,” she says. “Gold adorned with beaded necklaces and vintage crystal look they came right from the jewelry box. Like jewelry, lighting becomes the piece that sets the mood for finishes a look.” — story by Cara Recine and The Associated Press
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www.villasofhollybrook.com Life & Style : Spring 2014 65
lens envy
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3
photography: The Southern, Adam Testa, and Les Winkeler
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Spring blooms From the swamps, to the fields, to the woods, Southern Illinois is alive with wildflowers during the spring and summer. Flowers gracing the landscape include (from left) a smartweed, a bee pollinating an unidentified bloom, a ragwort, a zinnia and a button bush.
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Life & Style : Spring 2014 67
wine
Old world,
new wines Walker’s Bluff releases first vintage of European varieties
STEVE MATZKER
story by Debbie Moore
Co-owner and winemaker, David Bunch developed a personal wine palate while traveling Europe during his career. He enjoyed the dry wines of Spain, Germany, Italy and France.
PROVIDED BY WALKER’S BLUFF
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When David and Cynde Bunch built a big gazebo to use as a venue for Cynde’s dad’s milestone birthday party, locals started stopping by to ask what was going on with the family farm now known as Walker’s Bluff. When David and Cynde Bunch opened the doors of Legends, a magnificent restaurant just a quick walk from the gazebo, locals got the answer to their question! They walked into a uniquely extraordinary experience within the walls of one of the Southern Illinois region’s most beautiful dining venues. The gazebo and restaurant were just the beginning steps in creating a successful estate vineyard that is now producing bottles of something even more
New from Walker’s Bluff Here are the premier wines recently released at Walker’s Bluff. The wines are available by the bottle and by the case. 2010 Belle Verte Terroir: This Illinois Syrah is limited and very special. It includes the flavors of chocolate, blueberry and currant with underlying tones of blackberry, truffle and espresso. Its flavor is robust, but gentle. ($130 bottle; $1,560 case) 2011 Big Branch White: This Pino Grigio explodes with the flavors of fresh green apples and lime zest. Ripe pear and honeydew blend to bring out the subtle scent of lemon. ($35 bottle; $420 case)
unique and extraordinary. David Bunch developed a personal wine palate while traveling Europe during his career. He enjoyed the dry wines, both red and white, of Spain, Germany, Italy and France. When his wife suggested he plant some grapes at Walker’s Bluff, David was quick to say, “If I can’t grow something good, I’m not going to grow anything.” For David Bunch, “good” meant growing old world European grapes that would produce dry wines, instead of the typical hybrids grown in Southern Illinois that produce sweet and semi-sweet wines. So, another uniquely extraordinary experience was launched at Walker’s Bluff when 1,700 posts were set and strung with 20 miles of wire so 4,000 vinifera grape vines could be planted. The vines include Barbera, Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Pino Gri and Syrah. As the grapes grew and the plants matured, so did Walker’s Bluff. Other venues were added to the destination complex, including a tasting room, the Depot, a really well-stocked General Store and the unusual Wine Cave. Notoriety and popularity also grew at Walker’s Bluff, as premier events became the norm. Headline entertainers including Charlie Daniels and Sheryl Crow hit the outdoor stage, and many of the region’s popular fundraisers moved their locations to the beautiful grounds of Walker’s Bluff. While all the good things were happening, the owners had their share of challenges, too. Although floods and storms barely slowed down the momentum, they certainly posed some issues. David Bunch said he knew he was
2011 Temple Tiger: This Tempranillo has the aromas of fresh plum and blackberry, which embrace the dried herbs and tobacco bouquets. ($40 bottle; $480 case) 2011 Barbera de Guy: This Barbera has deep layers of earthy spices and toasty smoke, brought to light with vibrant fig and black currant. Gentle cherry and plum couple with hints of vanilla and licorice currant. ($30 bottle; $360 case) 2012 Beverly Blush: Teaming with strawberry, this Pinot Grigio/ Tempranillo opens up with bold pear and cherry. Traces of orange blossom and rolled lime enhance the flavor of golden delicious apple. ($30 bottle; $360 case)
taking a big gamble planting his preferred vines, but he didn’t expect to have to replace 50 percent of the Syrah plants the first year. He persevered and replanted and now happily reports that as the plants have matured, juice production has doubled every year. The most productive are the Sangiovese, Pino Gri and the Barbera, and that pleases him. When first considering grape production, David tapped the expertise of the University of California at Davis. UC Davis is widely known for its viticulture and enology program that has produced extensive research and prominent alumni in the field for more than 100 years. UC Davis sampled the soil at Walker’s Bluff and determined that the content was close to the Bordeaux region of France. UC Davis is working to determine the DNA of a vine that arrived at Walker’s Bluff by accident in a shipment of Barbera grape vines! The vine has produced an unusual sweet white grape with unidentifiable leaves. David said the birds don’t like the grapes and the plants have grown well, so he wants to know what it is. He anticipates planting more. Additional varieties of grapes won’t be the only changes at Walker’s Bluff. Plans for the estate winery include the addition of a hotel and an event center that can accommodate weddings and other special events. The entertainment lineup this year includes a couple of headline groups, and family-oriented activities are always in the plans. The Bunch grandchildren — five granddaughters — have made David and Cynde aware of the need to provide activities for the whole family.
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MCT
getaways
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Chicago A city full of eclectic and creative opportunities for visitors story by Diana Lambdin Meyer
hicago’s Wrigley Field is more than the home of the Chicago Cubs, the lovable losers and arch rivals of the St. Louis Cardinals. Wrigley Field is an icon of Major League Baseball. Therefore, because baseball is America’s favorite pastime, Wrigley Field is an American icon. This year, the home of the ivy-covered outfield wall, turns 100 years old. The Cubbies are throwing a party all summer long, so now more than ever, a road trip to Chicago is in order. From awe-inspiring architectural grandeur to rough and gritty gathering spots, with fabulous views of Lake Michigan or a brilliant skyline, Chicago lays out an eclectic and creative buffet of getaway options. Just 350 miles to the north, sometimes Chicago feels like a universe away from Southern Illinois, but this summer, let’s celebrate America’s pasttime and Wrigley Field’s birthday with a visit to the Windy City. Here are some of the top places to see and experience.
The skyline of Chicago is seen from the North Pond restaurant in Lincoln Park.
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COURTESY CHOOSECHICAGO.COM
getaways
The marquee at Wrigley Field is one of the most popular places to stop and have your photo snapped. The Harry Caray statue (right) at Wrigley Field honors the baseball sportscaster. He covered four Major League Baseball teams, beginning with 25 years of calling the games of the St. Louis Cardinals. After a year working for the Oakland Athletics and 11 years with the Chicago White Sox, Caray spent the last 16 years of his career as the announcer for the Chicago Cubs.
Wrigley Field – “Meet Me Under the Marquee”
Throughout the 2014 season, the Chicago Cubs will celebrate 100 years of Wrigley Field with exciting promotions, events and collectible memorabilia. Each home stand will celebrate a different decade of the Cubs organization and the memorable moments of Wrigley Field. The second oldest ballpark in the majors (behind Boston’s Fenway Park built in 1912), Wrigley received the nickname “the Friendly Confines” from Cubs Hall of Famers Ernie Banks based on the compact nature of the stadium. The statues of Ernie Banks and Harry Caray are as beloved as Stan Musial’s in St. Louis; but the place to meet and have your photo taken is under that famous marquee. Located on just three acres of land and within 100 yards of residential buildings, there’s just no place like Wrigley. It was the last major league field to get lighting — in 1988 — and they still hand-turn the scoreboard. You won’t see yourself on the Jumbo Tron here; Wrigley doesn’t have one. But you will sing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” in the seventh inning the way Harry Caray meant it to be sung Starting with the home opener April 4 against the
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Phillies, the Cubs play 81 home games this summer, hosting the St. Louis Cardinals May 2-4, again July 25-27, and finally Sept. 22-24. Daily tours last about 90 minutes and cost $25 for adults. It’s worth it. During nine home stands, the team will wear uniforms reflective of that decade in Wrigley Field’s history. A complete line of centennial memorabilia is already for sale with additional merchandise to be released with each of those home stands. If you’ve never been, you’re missing one of the best reasons to live in Illinois.
The Second City Comedy Club/Theatre
Almost half the age of Wrigley Field but equally established in the legendary history of Chicago, The Second City has been in the business of making people laugh and training the super comedians of tomorrow for more than 50 years. Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Steve Carell and Stephen Colbert are among the most recent and most celebrated of Second City’s alumni. If you’ve ever been on a Norwegian Cruise and enjoyed a comedy show, you’ve enjoyed the work of The Second City-trained comedians. The Second City now has two stages with two
Take it all in Visitors can skate for free in Millennium Park downtown, surrounded by the Chicago skyline. The Second City has been in the business of making people laugh and training the super comedians of tomorrow for more than 50 years.
COURTESY CHOOSECHICAGO.COM
Resources
MCT
Choose Chicago: www.choosechicago.com, 312-567-8481 Chicago History Museum: www.chicagohs.org, 312-642-4600 Frank Lloyd Wright Trust: www.flwright.org, 312-994-4000 Navy Pier, www.navypier.com, 312-595-7437 Second City: www.secondcity.com, 312-475-3560 Union Station: www.chicagounionstation.com, 312-655-2481 Wait, Wait. Don’t Tell Me: www.wbez.org, 312-948-4600 Wrigley Field: chicago.cubs.mlb.com, 773-404-4200
Life & Style : Spring 2014 73
MCT
COURTESY CHOOSECHICAGO.COM
getaways
See the skyline of Chicago (left) without getting cold from inside the Lego store inside Water Tower Place, where many of the city’s iconic buildings are recreated out of Legos. This small element from the Rookery Building (right) shows why it’s considered an architectural masterpiece. At 209 S. LaSalle St., this historic landmark was completed in 1888. The lobby was remodeled in 1905 by Frank Lloyd Wright. Beginning in 1989, the lobby was restored to the original Wright design.
equally funny but different experiences. The Main Stage is the original, the classic. That’s where the likes of John Belushi and Gilda Radner performed. A few years ago, a second stage was added called the e.t.c. stage. It’s a smaller, more intimate experience. Both theaters are cabaretstyle, which means you may end up sharing a table with others. Tickets are $24 for a two hour show. Weekend shows often sell out, so make your plans early if this is a part of your Chicago getaway plan. Here’s a tip if you’re game for a late night: Each Friday, there’s a free improv set after the last show, which starts about 1 a.m. And remember, it’s a comedy show where politics and the crazy quirks of our society are the butt of many jokes. Some occasional foul language fills the air, but no more than you might hear in an R-rated movie.
‘Wait, Wait Don’t Tell Me’
If you have ever listened to NPR (WSIU, 91.9 FM) on a Saturday morning, you know this to be the funniest show
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on radio. However, the show is taped on Thursday nights at the Chase Bank Auditorium at 10 S. Dearborn in downtown Chicago. Basically it’s a current events quiz hosted by the hilarious Peter Sagal and his side-kick Carl Kasell. It’s complete and total nonsense, as our daily lives often are. Tickets are $25, but you need to buy your tickets a couple of weeks in advance if you want to stand any chance of actually getting in. This is a family-friendly show, produced by WBEZ Chicago.
Chicago’s Union Station
Remember that classic scene in the movie “The Untouchables” with the baby carriage and the long marble staircase and Andy Garcia saving the baby while getting the bad guy? That scene was shot at Chicago’s magnificent Union Station, one of dozens of movies that have used this building as a backdrop. Designed by architect Daniel Burnham, who was responsible for many of Chicago’s great buildings, Union Station opened in 1925. Yes, it’s an active train station, the
fourth busiest in the nation with more than 3.2 million passengers a year and about 55 trains each day. So here’s a thought: Take Amtrak to Chicago and avoid lots of hassles and parking fees in the city. Live life like a local and figure out what the L is all about. The L has more than 140 stops throughout the city and certainly at the big places you want to be, like Wrigley Field.
Frank Lloyd Wright Tours
Architect Frank Lloyd Wright left his fingerprint all over the Chicago landscape, which is one reason 47 million visitors come to Chicago each year, just to see his work. Several companies offer good architectural tours, but your best experience for Frank Lloyd Wright comes from the Trust that bears his name. There are a number of such tours to choose from, which range greatly in time and price. However, if you fear that some in your group won’t be too excited about an architecture tour, just take them past The Rookery at 209 S. LaSalle in the Financial District. Built shortly after the Great
AP AP
A group of children (left) admire the flamingos at Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo. Visitors flock to the 49-acre zoo a few miles north of downtown Chicago, where the admission is free and it’s open year ‘round. Viewers explore the breathtaking, seemingly infinite universe (right) as they fly through space to orbit the Moon, zoom into a canyon on Mars, and soar through the cosmic web where a million galaxies shower down upon them in the most immersive space environment ever created at the Adler Planetarium.
Chicago Fire by Daniel Burnham and John Root, the Rookery is most famous for the Light Court — the part of the building redesigned by Frank Lloyd Wright. The space is as the name implies — an open, airy interior courtyard with an atrium ceiling and detailed mosaic floor tiles. The 11 floor winding iron staircase creates some magnificent photo opportunities. Tours are only 30 minutes and only cost $5. But here’s the interesting tidbit about the building for those who don’t think they’ll like architecture — the exterior of the Rookery was appeared as Duncan’s Toy Chest in the movie Home Alone 2.
Chicago History Museum
Guess what? Mrs. O’Leary’s cow probably did not start the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Seriously. More than 140 years later, the woman is still getting a bad rap. And that’s one of the things you’ll learn in a tour of the Chicago History Museum, the city’s oldest cultural institution. Because of that fire, and another one three years later in the museum itself,
must of the city’s early history was destroyed. The current building in Lincoln Park has been safe from fires since its opening in 1932. There’s some cool stuff inside, like the bed Abraham Lincoln died on, a fabulous exhibit on sports in the Windy City, and another on the infamous and not always squeaking clean politics of Chicago. The museum is particularly well-known for its textiles and fashion collection, which is the largest in the U.S. and the second largest in the world Plan to have lunch in the North & Clark Café. The floor-to-ceiling windows provide a lovely view of the Children’s Fountain in Lincoln Park, which is just as beautiful at night as it is in the daytime hours. The light and airy space feels like an indoor picnic, a great idea in the heat of a Chicago summer.
Navy Pier/Festival Hall
Chicago’s master plan after the historic fire of 1871 included a series of recreational piers to be built on Lake Michigan near the mouth of the Chicago
River. Only one was ever constructed, in 1909, and now the historic Navy Pier is recognized as the Midwest’s premiere tourist and leisure destination. At just over a mile long, there’s always something happening at Navy Pier and no matter who is in your group, you’ll find something to please — shopping, gardens, festivals, restaurants. Pier Park includes the wonderful Pier Ferris wheel and classic musical carousels. The Chicago Children’s Museum is here, as is a museum on stained glass. Enjoy a performance at the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre or just have your picture made with a statue of Bob Newhart. But you can’t come to Chicago without enjoying Lake Michigan and Navy Pier is where you can catch any number of excursions out on the lake. If you really wanted to learn more about Chicago architecture, you can take a cruise specific to the skyline. There are sail-powered cruises on tall ships, dinner cruises and just low-key sightseeing cruises.
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COURTESY CHOOSECHICAGO.COM
getaways
The choices of places to eat in Chicago are mind-blowing and the list changes every day. The bottom line is you’re going to have fun and if you do it right, you’ll probably gain a little weight. Of course, you can always have pizza and always enjoy a hot dog. Those are Chicago basics and well, really a little cliché. Let’s try something different: Thalia Hall, a community gathering point in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago since 1893, is a massive stone structure modeled after the Old Opera House of Prague. Well, it has just reopened as Dusek’s Board and Beer, a funky tavern-style eatery where you can have fried chicken and ham, or monk fish and sardines. The reason you come is for the beer menu, a huge list that changes weekly. The beer cellar has a secret passage way. Ask to see it. (1227 W. 18th St., 312526-3851) Chicagoans love their rooftops and a great new rooftop restaurant in the River North neighborhood is Tanta. It’s one of the few restaurants in the Midwest that specialize in Peruvian cuisine. Enjoy some ceviche and Criolla Causitas on the rooftop and enjoy
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the fact that you’ve pushed your comfort zone on this getaway. (118 W. Grand Ave., 312-2229700) A great Italian restaurant with a fabulous wine selection is Sienna Tavern. Known for the truffle gnocchi with roasted cauliflower, the restaurant is the creation of chef Fabio Viviani. You might have seen him on The Top Chef. (51 W. Kinzie St., 312-595-1322) If you insist upon pizza, La Madia in the River North neighborhood is one of those pleasant neighborhood restaurants that serves outstanding Chicago-style pizza, but doesn’t get all of the press that the big places get. (59 W. Grand Ave., 312-329-0400) MCT
Off the beaten (eating) track
DIANA LAMBDIN MEYER is a freelance travel writer based in the Kansas City, Missouri area. Originally from Wolf Lake in Union County, Diana specializes in travel journalism.
Always breathtaking At just over a mile long, there’s always something happening at Navy Pier (left) — shopping, gardens, festivals, restaurants. Pier Park includes the wonderful Pier Ferris wheel and classic musical carousels. Chicago’s architecture (above) is a stunning chessboard of players set in motion by the world’s greatest architects. The best way to begin to take in the scope of this is through a river cruise with the Chicago Architecture Foundation. Boats depart several times daily for the 90-minute tour.
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Commercial Prop es, Lots, ertie s Hom You can’t talk about Chicago without talking architecture, and you can’t talk Chicago architecture without talking Frank Lloyd Wright. Robie House is Wright’s 1909 creation on Chicago’s South Side. The home represents the architect’s Prairie School style.
Hot spots, Saluki style story by Brent Stewart If you’re SIU alumni, where’s the best place to go in Chicago? It used to be Saluki Bar in Old Town, but that closed a couple of years ago. Finding a bar with local connections in the Windy City is still possible. Here are a few suggestions: The Cubby Bear 1059 W Addison St.
ove) ion ay
Southern Illinois University may not immediately come to mind when thinking about The Cubby Bear, one of the most famous watering holes in the Wrigleyville neighborhood. Located directly across the street from the neighborhood’s biggest beer garden, Wrigley Field, it’s owned by 1973 SIUC graduate George Loukas. The bar has a bit of SIU memorabilia inside, and, with five projection screens and more than 75 plasma televisions, you’re bound to get a good vantage point to watch a game. If you ask nicely, they might even change one to a Saluki game.
or
Piece Brewery and Pizzeria 1927 W. North Ave.
ing
des
Located in the Wicker Park neighborhood, Piece is an awardwinning pizzeria and brewery. Unlike the pie Chicago is famous for, Piece
201 N. Park Ave • Herrin • 618-988-1739
serves a tasty, thin-crust pizza. But just as delicious is its onsite brewed beer. And here’s the SIUC connection: Brewer Jonathan Cutler is an SIU graduate who began homebrewing while a student in Carbondale. Over the last decade, Cutler’s beer has consistently won awards at the Great American Beer Festival and the World Beer Cup. Piece gets pretty crowded on game days, so get in and get a seat early. Logan Bar and Grill 2230 N. California Ave.
Logan Bar and Grill doesn’t necessarily have an SIU connection, but it does have a Southern Illinois connection. It’s in the Logan Square neighborhood, which is named for Murphysboro’s favorite son, Gen. John A. Logan. And if you’re looking to watch a game, have a brew and a bite to eat, it’s an excellent location. They have a great tap list and terrific atmosphere. If you want to make another stop on the John A. Logan memorial tour, head over to Grant Park to see a statue of the Civil War general at 337 East Randolph, which was was unveiled in 1897.
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BRENT STEWART is a native of Murphysboro who now lives and works in Madison, Wis.
Life & Style : Spring 2014 77
business buzz
On the corner
unique and ‘eclectic’ of
The Wild Trillium gives new life to Benton Public Square
STEVE MATZKER
story by Becky Malkovich
78 Life & Style : Spring 2014
The store carries an eclectic mix of items, with a focus on those created locally.
The reasons behind the opening of The Wild Trillium are as unique as the gift emporium’s inventory. The store, owned by Wade Durham of Thomasville, Ga., and managed by Sharon Webb Hewitt, opened last May on the Benton Public Square. “We had a couple of objectives,” Hewitt said. “We wanted to help, in our own way, revitalize the square. We also wanted to provide an outlet for local artists. When people walk in our door, they see items made by local artists and craftsmen.” With an emphasis on local, The Wild Trillium has established relationships with artisans and crafters throughout the region and the Midwest. A walk through the store reveals a quirky and quality mix of gifts including soaps, duck calls, art, paper, glass, wood and metal work, jewelry, clothing, accessories and home décor items handcrafted by local talents like Van McGill, Lisa Bowlin, Mack Wynn, Cathy Biggs, E.A. Knight and Clay Lick Creek Pottery.
find them
PHOTOGRAPHER
The Wild Trillium 807 Public Square, Benton Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday Phone: 618-435-3744 On Facebook: www.facebook.com/ TheWildTrillium
‘We wanted to help, in our own way, revitalize the square,’ says Sharron Hewitt, manager of The Wild Trillium Gift Emporium in Benton.
Hewitt describes The Wild Trillium, named for a wildflower spotted during a walk in the woods with her late father years ago, as “eclectic.” “We’re trying to offer new-to-the-area pieces for people who appreciate handmade, unique items that won’t be found in a typical store,” she said. “Most of our things are very practical, very functional. We have a lot of repurposed items, too. We give things new life.” The store also specializes in custom furniture. “I love finding unique pieces of furniture and custom-painting them,” Hewitt said. Hewitt’s graphic design background also was put to use in the store’s branding, from the store’s distinctive signage and window displays to the handwritten labels and price tags. “I’m so excited about everything in here,” she said of the store. “I’m having so much fun I’d like to put a store on every corner of the square.”
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Life & Style : Spring 2014 79
STEVE MATZKER
meet the artist
story by Joe Szynkowski
Union County’s
Tim Heath
art experience fuses
80 Life & Style : Spring 2014
and
Stained-glass artist. Mixed-media specialist. Collegiate instructor. Tim Heath has worn many hats throughout his artistic career, and interchanging them is what has kept him fresh and focused. A 1992 graduate of SIU Carbondale’s mixed media program, Heath is a secondgeneration glass worker who began learning the trade from his father as a child in the 1970s. His work, which includes blown glass, stained glass, sculptures, benches and more, has been featured in galleries throughout Southern Illinois. He also owns Heath’s Glass Works in Anna, has taught art at the college level and loves talking shop with younger students. “Teaching was always fun because it kind of revived you,” he said. “You see new energy and new ideas and you kind of feed off of it.”
Heath recently showed off his studio to Life & Style and gave some insightful answers – and advice – for this issue’s Artist Q&A.
What kinds of private stained glass projects have you been working on? I’ll get people wanting a piece to kind of memorialize a passed family member. They want something beautiful that can be installed in a church or in their homes. I assume taking on projects like that with so much meaning, you are probably connecting pretty strongly with your clients. Oh yeah, you connect with people a lot, especially with the private home work. You’re walking through their home and learning why certain things mean something to them. And with my past church work, you get to know the core group of the congregation pretty well, too. So why the shift from stained glass work? For me, it’s about change. I’ve done stained glass for so long I’ve got burnt out on it probably three or four times and went on to something else. It’s funny; even moving on to the mixed media work, there are aspects of my stained glass experience that I apply to a lot of different things.
STEVE MATZKER
You’ve built a name for yourself in stained glass work; is that still your primary project focus? I used to do a lot of windows for churches and now do a lot of private commissions. Here lately, I’m moving into mixed media, which was my first love. I’m working with wood, metals and natural objects like trees.
One of many tools Tim Heath uses to create his multi-media art in Anna.
Can you explain your creative process? How does an idea come to fruition? I’m working on about 10 projects at once, and each one is kind of an adventure. I’ve got three or four different journals I write in. Just different ideas, materials lists and things like that. I know you’re active in the art community and used to attend a lot of the craft shows. How else do you get the word out about your pieces when it’s time to sell them? Word of mouth has been the best. I also worked at the Glass Barn for 11 years and taught for a long time, so I’m pretty connected with local artists. I don’t go to as many shows anymore because there’s so much setup and coordination, but when I do, I throw in a curveball for people who
think I’ll only have stained glass there. I’ll bring some of my mixed-media work to display, too, and people will be surprised. For aspiring artists out there, young and old, what is a piece of advice to get them on the right track in this field? Learn everything you can and invest in tools. Use your imagination and just create. I collect all sorts of items for the mixed media pieces not knowing when I’ll ever use it. Then an idea pops up for something and one of those items will be the perfect piece.
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Life & Style : Spring 2014 81
apps
Mobile
entertainment As technology has evolved, so have the means by which people enjoy entertainment. Motion pictures changed from silent films to special effects-laden blockbusters. AM radio gave way to FM and eventually satellite. Television first added color and has now integrated computer applications into smart TVs. Through the years, entertainment also has become much more mobile. From the days of carrying a cassette player to an era where devices like smartphones are capable of producing sound, video and even live interaction, the field has certainly evolved. Today, there is no shortage of applications and programs allowing people to access a plethora of entertainment libraries — ranging from personal music collections to massive lineups of television and film offerings — available at the touch of one’s fingers. Some require a monthly or annual subscription fee, while others are available free. Many allow users to create an account accessible from other devices, enabling them access to the content from virtually anywhere. The entertainment game is changing, and users have the advantage of being along for the ride as the industry continues to evolve and adapt to the demands of an ever-changing society.
Here are some of the entertainment apps available: Crackle: Sony operates this video network that, similarly to Netflix, lets users watch a variety of movies on demand. The free service features a variety of classic and contemporary shows and uncut movies, as well as original content, from Columbia Pictures, Screen Gems, Sony Pictures Classic and TriStar Pictures. Redbox: In recent years, these machines found in and near stores, gas stations and shopping centers have replaced businesses like Blockbuster and Family Video as the top video rental distribution. With the free app, users can search local Redbox outlets, reserve movies and games for pick up and more. Showyou: Jumping between video sharing sites like YouTube and Vimeo can be a hassle. This app eliminates the headache, pulling in digital video content from across the web and presenting it in an easy-to-use format. The free app creates a one-stop shop for the online video viewer. Songza: This free app appeals to music lovers of all types. Songs are presented as themed playlists that can be discovered by searching for specific artists, sorting through genres or using the Music Concierge, which helps select tunes based on mood, time of day and other factors. Playlists can be created through Songza’s browser-based website. Vevo HD: Music fans can go beyond the melodies and lyrics with this app, which also integrates digital content such as artist interviews, trivia and more. Users can also create specialized playlists, complete with video, which offers an added benefit to the visually inclined. — Adam Testa
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P se th ex tr
In 2011, Justin Wiseman was hiding from the world. Unlike most 26 year olds, he was nearly 600 pounds and suffering from countless health issues. He dreamed of a life where he could go to the movies, enjoy the outdoors and be happy, but his weight always held him back. One day, Justin found the courage to make an appointment with Dr. Naresh Ahuja at New Life Weight Loss Center, the Only Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence between Poplar Bluff and Louisville. In 2012, Dr. Ahuja performed gastric sleeve surgery on Justin. That day changed his life forever. He now lives life to the fullest and never looks back. Justin has worked so hard to get this far and knows he couldn’t have done it without Dr. Ahuja, and the entire staff at New Life Weight Loss Center, who have been beside him every step of the way. Today, Justin has lost over 400 pounds and he’s on top of the world! Who could be such a partner? Only SIH. LEARN MORE AT:
SIH.NET/JUSTIN Physicians, physician assistants, and advanced practice nurses providing services at and admitting patients to Herrin Hospital are not employees of the hospital. Physicians, physician assistants, and advanced practice nurses exercise their own independent judgment regarding medical care and treatment and the hospital is not responsible for their actions.
Call to schedule your appointment or to see when the next free information session is near you.
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Life & Style : Spring 2014 83
self
Connecting
mind, body
spirit
story by Joe Szynkowski While many trudge onward — or backward — with New Year’s resolutions, some local experts have advice for anyone resolving to connect their bodies, minds and spirits for a happier life. The three factors are highly interchangeable, our experts say, and can be cohesively combined to form a new outlook on everyday living.
Lipe
Roger Lipe Representative, Southern Illinois Fellowship of Christian Athletes “Sport, like all of life, is best experienced in an integrated fashion. When we are 100 percent engaged; body, mind and spirit, we are at our best. When we are compartmentalized, leaving one or more parts of ourselves out of the process, the experience is diminished in quality and value. When our whole person is engaged in sport, it can be a rich, fulfilling experience as described in Romans 12:1-2. In this context, sport is an act of genuine, God-pleasing worship.”
Jan Staab Life Coach, Philosophical Counselor and Owner, Life Signs Coaching “Appreciating your self-worth is more than just liking who you are. It’s knowing what your greatest Staab strengths and talents are and actively pursuing a life that honors them. It’s believing that you deserve to be happy and going after happiness with all your might. Whether you want to get healthy, deepen your spiritual life or attain any goal, knowing your own potential is essential to your success.”
84 Life & Style : Spring 2014
ART SERVICES
Marti Rider Director of Fitness, Garden Grove Event Center, Carbondale “Yoga is not just about working out; it’s about a healthy lifestyle. The practice of yoga allows students to be still in a world consumed with chaos. Peace and tranquility achieved through Rider focused training appeals to everyone. Yoga’s deepbreathing and meditation practices help foster an inner shift from to-do lists, kids and spouse’s needs, financial concerns and relational struggles to something a little bit bigger than the issues you face.”
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Life & Style : Spring 2014 85
learning
THE SOUTHERN FILE PHOTO
Children run their hands over the clay skin of a sculpted Allosaurus fragilis named Cooper after it was unveiled at The Science Center in Carbondale.
Two decades of
dedication
Jolynn Smith and Linda Herrold reflect on founding and running The Science Center in Carbondale story by Dustin Duncan More than 20 years ago, Jolynn Smith and Linda Herrold had an idea to bring a hands-on learning science center for children to Carbondale. Now that idea is a reality. The Science Center of Southern Illinois in Carbondale is celebrating its 20th year in existence. The center is at University Mall in Carbondale, but Smith and Herrold were told at first a science center would not be able to survive in the city. “We talked to a lot of people in the community to see if there was enough interest to bring a science center to Carbondale,” Herrold said. “People told us a hands-on science center would not do well in Carbondale.” “But we were just astonished at the generosity of the people in the community,” said Smith. “It is clear that the people in Carbondale care about the children.” Once Smith and Herrold decided they were going to push forward with the center, they got a huge gift from the city.
86 Life & Style : Spring 2014
“Carbondale was generous in giving us the basement floor in a building on College Street,” said Herrold. “We were able to get a core group of people together to renovate the space so we could hold our Saturday science programs, beginning in January 1993.” Smith joked about the building, saying it was so bad that it was fun. “There were so many things that we did there,” said Smith. “It was such a bad building that it didn’t matter if we put a hole in the wall, which we did at one time. We even had a beehive and a butterfly garden at one time. That is something we wouldn’t be able to do at the mall.” The Science Center officially opened in January 1994. Chris Walls, current Science Center executive director, said Smith and Herrold have given everything they could to The Science Center, and it wouldn’t be the same without them. “They have given their hearts, minds and bodies to the center,” Walls said. “It is hard to find such dedicated people who live and breathe The Science Center. They also provide the historical prospective that
‘They have given their hearts, minds and bodies to the center. It is hard to find such dedicated people who live and breathe The Science Center.’ — Chris Walls The Science Center executive director
only they can because they are the ones who started everything. They opened it up and allowed anybody who wanted to come and learn about science.” Today, Smith and Herrold help run The Science Café, which take place in the spring and fall, for three weeks each season. Scientists and researchers from SIU Carbondale and the community are invited to present new findings in their professions and to talk about their careers.
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“This gives people in the community access to experts they normally wouldn’t be able to talk to,” Smith said. “We are grateful for the people who come and volunteer their time because we do not pay those speakers.” Smith is retired from teaching at SIU, and Herrold still teaches, but they both said completely walking away from The Science Center isn’t going to happen soon. “I keep saying we really should back out, but it is pretty much what I do now,” Smith said. “We probably won’t quit anytime soon.” “Jolynn and I will most likely be around The Science Center forever,” Herrold said.
Need a night out?
Use your head to protect your skin
The Science Center of Southern Illinois can help with its Grown Ups Night Out program. Each month, the center hosts a kids’ movie night that includes dinner, free play and science activities. Parents don’t have to stay. The program takes place the third Friday of every month from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Children of all ages are welcome, but they must be potty trained. The cost is $15 per child with a family membership to the center, $20 without. Call 618-529-5431 or email si.sciencecenter@gmail to reserve your spot or for more information.
learn more The Science Center What: A hands-on children’s museum with an array of exhibits; also Grown Ups Night Out, camps, parties, field trips Where: 1237 E. Main, University Mall across from Macy’s
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Phone: 618-529-5431 Online: yoursciencecenter.org Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m. Sunday Admission: $5 per person; 2 and younger free
222 W. Freeman Campus Shopping Center Downtown Carbondale (618) 529-2313
Be a member: Annual family membership is $65 and provides discounts on most programs, as well as free admission to more than 300 museums worldwide
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Life & Style : Spring 2014 87
parting shot
p.s. photo by Adam Testa The Southern
88 Life & Style : Spring 2014
A squirrel eats a winter snack on a cold December day in Carbondale. Snow falling from leaves dusts the top of the critter’s head, a remnant of the seasonal weather that struck Southern Illinois multiple times this winter.
Quality. Integrity. Understanding.
Hilliard Lyons, founded in 1854, has guided more than six generations of investors through some of the most dynamic changes in history. Our longevity is a solid indicator of the quality of our service. Through integrity and understanding, the individuals who comprise Hilliard Lyons are committed to serving and advising each client in achieving his or her financial goals. Pictured left to right: Michael Barnett | Financial Consultant Laryssa Allen | Client Service Associate Kathy Gulledge | Client Service Associate Ben Bruce, CWA® | Senior Vice President | Financial Consultant 200 Tower Square | Marion, IL 618.997.4608 | 800.997.4608 www.hilliard.com Securities offered through J.J.B. Hilliard, W.L. Lyons, LLC. Member NYSE, FINRA & SIPC | ©2013