Life & Style - Fall 2012

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� HISTO RIC DOWNTOWN CAPE GIRARDEAU DIAMOND DISTRICT �

You’ll find exactly what you’re looking for just a short drive across the bridge. With two locations in historic downtown Cape Girardeau Missouri you are sure to find the perfect item. Our stores have a wide selection of jewelry gifts for him and her. Tired of driving from store to store, come across the bridge and have two convenient locations within a block of each other.

115 Themis St.

29 N. Main St.

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573-335-5681 www.zickfieldsjewelery.com

Photo Courtesy of Cape Girardeau CVB

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Life & Style : Fall 2012 3

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. Ethridge Designer Circulation Mark Romanowski Online Lauren Siegert J.C. Dart Photographers Aaron Eisenhauer Joel Hawksley Paul Newton Adam Testa Les Winkeler Contributors Shawn Connelly Rauna Davis Les O’Dell Becky Malkovich Cara Recine Joe Szynkowski Adam Testa Les Winkeler Copy Editing Heather Henley Mary Thomas Layton Jeff Wilson Advertising Stacy Cramm Design Sharon Haege Anita Palmisano Jay Stemm Advertising Kelly Caudill Sales Brian Flath Alicia Lorenz Tina Moon Meagan Murray Ian Perkins Lacey Thompson David Zoeller

Life & Style in Southern Illinois is a publication of The Southern Illinoisan. Contact us at 710 N. Illinois Ave., Carbondale, IL 62901, or at P.O. Box 2108, Carbondale, IL 62902. Reach us on the Internet at www.LifeandStyleSI.com. Life & Style in Southern Illinois is published four times per year and is distributed free of cost to a variety of businesses and hotels in Southern Illinois. © 2011 by The Southern Illinoisan. All rights reserved. For more information call 618-529-5454 or 618-997-3356. Visit us online at www.thesouthern.com.

4 Life & Style : Fall 2012

welcome

Letter from the executive editor Golf is considered a summer game, but we are approaching the sport’s best season – autumn. My early summer shanks and putrid putting are gone. I’m stroking the ball into the hole reliably, if not perfectly. There are brief moments of flirting with an even-par nine. Occasionally a perfect shot can be found. There is one blissful shot every season. Last year, there was my holein-one. This year’s perfect moment came with a well-struck 5-iron that lifted my ball out of the rough, stayed clear of the trees and arced 145 yards toward the green. It then banked off a hill and rolled toward the hole. “Now, that’s what I call a golf shot,” I said to my partner, co-worker and Murphysboro resident Mark Romanowski. But when we got to the green, the ball was absent. It must have rolled off the green. We searched the bunkers and tall grass. No luck. Finally, I peered in the cup and found my beautiful Titleist. I’d scored a birdie 3 on a hole that usually yields 5 or more. I’m hoping for a few more great shots before winter slows my weekly rounds to once or twice a month and will try my luck on several of the toughest nine holes in Southern Illinois. You can review the “nasty nine” in a piece by Les Winkeler, an occasional golfing buddy and sports editor of The Southern Illinoisan. See if Les picked any holes of your personal torment! He picked one of mine. We’ve got a lot of great content for non-golfers, too. You’ll learn how our region’s great winemakers are winning awards and attracting attention with their port-style wines. A profile by Adam Testa provides an away-from-the-game-look at SIU’s new men’s basketball coach, Barry Hinson, who is making friends rapidly with his upbeat, enthusiastic and oft-amusing style. But, wait, there’s still more. This issue’s look at interesting places to visit in the five-state region we call home ventures to one of the most entertaining places in the world – beautiful, reasonably priced and accommodating Branson, Mo. If you think the place is only for country music mavens, well, let’s just say we’ve got the rest of the story. We hope you enjoy the cooler days of fall, as well as this issue of Life & Style in Southern Illinois. — Gary Metro

PAUL NEWTON

That’s par for the course — and even better

be heard Like something that you have seen in our magazine? Let us know about it.

SEND LETTERS Life & Style in Southern Illinois Cara Recine, editor P.O. Box 2108 Carbondale IL 62902-2108 EMAIL cara.recine@thesouthern.com

Life & Style : Fall 2012 5

contents

46

Fall 2012

36 Wine Country

Ports and Port-style dessert wines come up winners

The World at Our Fingertips

Modern technology is everywhere we go

52 Style

76 Getaways

Military dress lets you stay classy, day or night

32 Recreation: Golfing

Nine of the toughest holes you’ll ever play

Give Branson another look; you’ll be surprised at what you find

cover photo Lori Sweitzer and David Davies of Photography by Lori created our cover illustration.

40 Collectors: Rock ‘n’ Roll

Carterville couple’s collection is more than memorabilia

58 Profile: Barry Hinson

Get to know the new Saluki basketball coach

62 Where We Live: Anna

Fabulous home was raised with love and creativity

94 Entertainment: Country Fest

Get ready for some big names coming to Sparta

6 Life & Style : Fall 2012

this issue Social Seen My Favorite Things Don’t Miss This Artists Work Spaces Gadgets Apps

10 19 22 25 28 30 56

Sports Gear Self Scenic Beauty Décor Cheers to Beer Parting Shot

72 84 86 89 90 92 96

Life & Style : Fall 2012 7

2013 CHEVROLET MALIBU ECO

contact us Life and Style in Southern Illinois 710 N. Illinois Ave., Carbondale, IL 62901 618-529-5454

EDITORIAL

Cara Recine editor 618-351-5075 cara.recine @thesouthern.com

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Lacey Thompson niche advertising manager 618-351-5001 lacey.thompson @thesouthern.com

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Extraordinary “Like”us on Facebook. Attending or hosting an event? Post your pictures on our page and your event could be included in an upcoming edition of Life and Style in Southern Illinois. www.facebook.com/LifeandStyleSI

1258 E. Main • Carbondale • 618-351-1200• tjsfinejewelry.com

8 Life & Style : Fall 2012

Life & Style : Fall 2012 9

social seen

SIH Foundation Dinner

1

SIH Foundation Dinner at the SIU Student Center Ballroom which was the kickoff for the Hope is Home Cancer Center 1. George Kao, Marsha Ryan, Alberto Cuartas and Sujatha Rao 2. Lee and Stacie Crisp of Pepsi MidAmerica

3

2

3. Scott and Paula Frisch of the SIU Foundation and Jennifer Olson of Old National Bank 4. David and Cynde Bunch of Walker’s Bluff (left and center), with SIH CEO Rex Budde and Jennifer Badiu of SIH Cancer Services

4

Obesity Awareness Walk

2

1

Provided by SIH

Inaugural Obesity Awareness Walk on May 5 at Bruce Park in Energy 1. Dr. Naresh Ahuja of SIH 2. Heather Ruhe and Amy Wright of SIH

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13Pro Golf outing

2

1

13Pro Golf Outing on July 14 at Pine Lakes Golf Gourse in Energy 1. Kyle Lunsford of Carterville, Max Schloemann of Herrin, Heather Chambers of Carbondale, Jason O’Brien of Herrin and Chad Skaggs of De Soto 2. Jacek Wiltowski of Carbondale 3. Neal Schemonia of Murphysboro

4

3

Provided by 13Pro

4. Woodrow and Cynthia Newsom of Carbondale

Landscape Design & Development Water Features Irrigation Systems Lighting Plant & Bed Maintenance Outdoor Living Areas Patios, Walks & Walls

View our Design/Installation Portfolio at:

greenridgelandscaping.com 618.549.6165

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social seen

Hospice of Southern Illinois

2

1

10th Annual Larry Hughes Golf tournament on June 8 at Kokopelli Golf Club in Marion and 100 Holes of Golf Marathon at Lake of Egypt County Club 1. Mike Neal, Michelle Mason,Matt Murphy and Ron Phillips of Blue Cross Blue Shield

3

2. Deborah Hogg of Hospice of Southern Illinois and Larry G. Hughes 3. John Hill, Todd Goodman, Brian Van Horn and Rick Reckert of Timberline Fisheries 4. Mark Faulkner of Lake of Egypt Country Club, Deborah Hogg of Hospice of Southern Illinois, MLB Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith, Jennifer Vinyard of Hospice of Southern Illinois and Josh Riley of Gateway PGA

Provided by Hospice of Southern Illinois

4

be seen 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

Have you been to a great event lately? Did you take photos?

Newell House

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Herrin Hospital Dinner

2

1

The Herrin Hospital Associates for Excellence Dinner on June 23 1. Charles Helleny and Gene Honn of Herrin 2. Jennifer and Kevin Frost of Herrin 3. Dr. Donald and Barbara Guebert 4. Dr. Bret Miller and Terence Farrell, Herrin Hospital Administrator

4

Provided by Vicki Colombo

3

HerrinFesta Parade

2

HerrinFesta Italiana Parade on May 26 in downtown Herrin provided by Liz Lynn

1

1. Cristina, Rachel, Richard and Richard Pisoni of Herrin 2. Bess Hogan and Jennifer Wade of Herrin

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The holidays are just around the corner. 25 Free Premium Holiday Cards with any session package booked by Sept. 31, 2012.

www.photosbysydney.com 618-889-7154 www.facebook.com/artisticphotography1

Life & Style : Fall 2012 13

social seen

Fun Day Golf Scramble

1

2

Carbondale Chamber of Commerce Fun Day Golf Scramble on June 1 at Hickory Ridge Public Golf Center in Carbondale 1. Kevin Morrey of Creal Springs, Dale Lennon of Carbondale and Carole and Walter King of Anna

3

2. Lindsey Phillips of Carbondale 3. Rhett Barke, T.J. Martin, Matt Brooks and Tim Parsons of Carbondale 4. Jim Jacobs, David Binversie, Nick Ferraro and Jason Sigler of Carbondale 5. Steven Walkup of Murphysboro and Shane Carsrud of Carterville 6. Walter Wendler of Makanda, Chan San of Makanda, David Kuan of Herrin and John Koropchak of Makanda

4

6

Provided

5

14 Life & Style : Fall 2012

CCA 25th

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1

Carbondale Community Arts 25th Anniversary Celebration on July 10 at Carbondale Civic Center 1. CCA President Carolyn Snyder and Carbondale Mayor Joel Fritzler 2. Blanche Sloan

4

3

3. Ella Lacey and Ann Marie Shepherd of Carbondale

Paul Newtonand provided

4. Jack and Joan Langowski of Carbondale

6WUROO 7KURXJK /LIH LQ &RPIRUW +DSSLQHVV hammertoes • heel pain • nail fungus • diabetic foot issues • and more Seeing patients in Herrin, Harrisburg & Pinckneyville

amily Foot & Ankle Center Dr. Mindy Moore

3022 S. Park Ave • Herrin • 942-3334 • ffacsi.com

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Life & Style : Fall 2012 15

social seen

HerrinFesta Banquet

1

2

3

4

HerrinFesta Italiana Honorees Banquet on May 22 1. Carol King and Richard Pisoni 2. Jennifer Wade and Liz Lynn of Herrin 3. Elizabeth and Mayor Vic Ritter of Herrin 4. Taffie and E.J. Helleny of Herrin 5. Joey, Taffie, Nina, Joe, E.J., John and Charles Helleny of Herrin 6. Gary and Liz Issler and Bob and Marlene Simpson of Herrin 7. Cris and Peggy Trapani, Sandra Colombo and Bob and Cheryl Trench of Herrin 8. Herrin Chamber of Commerce President Kelly Green and Jeff Green of Herrin 9. Aur Beck and Fanna Haile-Selassie 10. Nancy and Dick Henley of Herrin 11. HerrinFesta President Cris Trapani and Peggy Trapani of Herrin 12. Nina and Joe Helleny of Herrin

Provided by Liz Lynn

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provided by Liz Lynn

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Hunting & Fishing Days Saturday & Sunday Sept. 22nd & Sept. 23rd

Autumn Fest Arts & Craft Show

Saturday & Sunday Nov. 10th & Nov. 11th

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Life & Style : Fall 2012 17

Getaway Cabins Stowaway Garages A Great Place to Relax

A Great Place for All Your Hobbies 1-800-786-7111 18 Life & Style : Fall 2012

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my favorite things

Suzanne Altobello ed

Travel. I just got back from five weeks in Europe with SIU students and my daughters, ages 12 and 7 – who have been traveling abroad with me since they were 7 and 2, respectively.

unplugg

Suzanne Altobello (formerly Suzanne Nasco) is a second-generation Italian-American, born in New York but grew up in Hollywood, Fla. She went to the University of Florida for her undergraduate degree in psychology and business, then earned master’s and doctorate degrees from the University of Notre Dame. She’s been at Southern Illinois University’s College of Business as a professor in marketing since 2002 and became director of the oncampus and online MBA programs in 2010. She has taken students abroad to study in Grenoble, France, for the past 10 years. Her academic, teaching and consulting interests are in the areas of consumer behavior, social media, mobile marketing, international marketing, innovation and technology. She is an adviser/investor in a local mobile marketing company started by two SIU students and serves on several campus and local committees.

Reading. I’ve been in a local book club for almost a decade.

Home improvement. After a decade, I think I’m almost finished renovating. Sports. I enjoy live collegiate sports (especially the Salukis).

Cycling. I love my Dahon Briza foldable bicycle. I keep it in the trunk of my car for whenever the need arises. Live music/singing. You can find me belting out some karaoke at the Department of Marketing graduation banquet every semester and always in my car. Cooking. Italians are often either good cooks or good bakers. My mom and grandmother are great bakers, but I prefer cooking.

Building furniture. Yes, I own lots of power tools. My favorite is my compound miter saw, which actually does need a plug.

AARON EISENHAUER

Photography. I’m a point-and-shoot girl, but I take photos everywhere I go!

Life & Style : Fall 2012 19

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20 Life & Style : Fall 2012

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Life & Style : Fall 2012 21

don’t miss this Cedarhurst Craft Fair When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 8 and 9 Where: Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, Mount vernon Info: 618-242-1236, cedarhurst.org More than 130 craftsmen and artists will be on the grounds, showcasing glass, ceramics, jewelry, fiber, wood, basketry and leather, two-dimensional art and more. There will be a special area for children, which will include games and make-and-take crafts. The Shrode Art Center will spotlight regional artists demonstrating painting, fiber arts, spinning, clay and woodworking. In the Grand Tent, you’ll find entertainment by national and regional bands, as well as tasty treats and drinks in the Beer Garden. What else: There will be a shuttle service from Times Square Mall; no parking is allowed on the grounds. Shuttle fare is $3 for adults, children 10 and younger ride free.

Illinois Wine & Art Festival When: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 29 and 30 Where: Southern Illinois Art & Artisans Center, Whittington Info: localwineevents.com This weekend celebration of Illinois art, wine, food and entertainment is the place to be the last weekend in September. The outdoor marketplace will feature juried artisans, who will be demonstrating their crafts. Thirteen regional wineries will be showcasing their best styles and vintages. There also will be plenty of live, local music and specialty food vendors.

Southern Illinois Irish Festival When: Friday through Sunday, Oct. 5, 6 and 7 Where: Turley Park, west side of Carbondale on Illinois 13 Info: silirishfest.org Everything Irish and a wee bit more can be found at this annual gathering of Irish and fans of the Irish. The main entertainment this year is The Kelley Band, along with Alex Caton and Pat Egan. More concert details are yet to be released. Be sure to pack up the kids for the Celtic Fair on Saturday, where there will be plenty of children’s activities and much more, including games, sporting matches, workshops, storytelling, the Highland Games and live entertainment.

For more information on these events and activities across Southern Illinois, go to www.LifeandStyleSI.com 22 Life & Style : Fall 2012

September 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

October 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Murphysboro Apple Festival When: Sunday through Saturday, Sept. 9 to 15 Where: Downtown Murphysboro Info: murphysboro.com The theme for this year’s festival is Orchard of Dreams. The annual festival celebrating one of the region’s best and most popular fruits will feature an arts and crafts fair, special days for kids and seniors, an apple-peeling contest, apple-pie eating contest, gospels sings, window displays, a car show, musical entertainment and plenty of food vendors. The Appletime Grand Parade is at 11 a.m. Saturday; the Pet and Hobby Parade is at 4 p.m. Friday.

Wolf Week When: Monday, Oct. 8, through Sunday, Oct. 14 Where: Woodlands Nature Station, Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, Kentucky Info: 270-924-2016, www.lbl.org Entry: $4 13 and older, $2 ages 5-12, 4 and younger admitted free This is a great opportunity to learn more about these intelligent and awesome rare animals. Educational programs are mixed with fun games and contests for wolf enthusiasts of all ages. The Nature Station is part of the Red Wolf Recovery Program, which is dedicated to saving the red wolf. If you’ve ever felt like howling like a wolf, plan to join them and give it your best shot.

Autumnfest When: Friday, Oct. 5, through Sunday, Oct. 7 Where: Downtown historic Ste. Genevieve, Mo. Info: 573-883-7097, www.visitstegen.com What better opportunity to stroll through the historic streets of this Mississippi River community? There is plenty of history to get into, and there also will be a variety of activites from car shows to art shows, artisan and craft booths, music and games. And don’t worry about food and drink; there will be plenty.

Life & Style : Fall 2012 23

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artist

Christine Deshazo, owner of Spectrum Graphics Studio in Murphysboro is often influenced by the people in her life. She then takes their likenesses and turns them into different designs (at right).

STEPHEN RICKERL

Christine Deshazo

You know her work, even if you don’t know it when you see it story by Adam Testa The world is Christine Deshazo’s gallery, but while hundreds of people see her work each day, very few likely even know it. For more than 30 years, the Murphysboro resident has created signs,

logos and other branding material for clients throughout the region. The circled emblem outside of Pinch Penny Pub, the “Welcome to Murphysboro” sign on the outskirts of town and the locally famous face of Sez the Silkworm are among her many creations.

“People see it every day; they just don’t know who did it,” said Deshazo, owner of Spectrum Graphics Studio. From billboards to decals for boats and cars, Deshazo can customize her work for almost any purpose. It’s one of the many artistic skills she’s learned through

Life & Style : Fall 2012 25

artist

Discover

Stephen Rickerl

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS HOSPITALITY AT ITS BEST This piece hangs on the wall behind Deshazo’s desk, adding a powerful display of artwork to her studio. The painting, which almost appears to pop off the page in three-dimensional form, is a powerful contrast to some of her other work.

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the years. Of course, she had a good teacher. Deshazo’s mother taught art to kindergarten through high school students for more than three decades. From a young age, the child aimed to imitate her mother. “I probably started copying her paintings with my crayons when I was 4,” she said. She kept up with it as she grew older, obtaining a degree in graphic design from SIU with the equivalent of a minor in fine arts. In 1981, as a senior in college, she launched Spectrum. At the time, her business mostly revolved around sign painting. In the years since, a lot of her work has shifted toward digital art, using modern technology to create elaborate and intricate designs. But her process still maintains its simple roots. “When I design a logo, a boat wrap or a sign, I still like to conceptualize it in my mind and sketch it on paper first,” she said. “I try to have a flair of artistry in everything I do.” Deshazo’s artwork, though, extends beyond what she does for her clients.

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This painting reflects Deshazo’s current style, with the vibrant and real image of a peacock set in the forefront against a stylized background.

When she’s not busy at work, she still paints as a hobby, dabbling mostly in oils and acrylics. She does both private and commissioned works and has painted a variety of subjects. Being one-sixteenth Cherokee, she has some interest in creating Native American-themed designs, but lately she’s been painting roosters. No matter what she’s painting, though, she has a model in her mind that influences her hand. “The visions dancing in my head right now have very stylized backgrounds and a focal point that is complete realism,� she said. “I probably have way too much going on in my head. I’m frequently asked if I ever sleep — no, not really.� One of the strangest parts of both the job and the hobby for Deshazo is now being hired by the children of her early customers. Her reputation has transcended generations, but that’s a fact she may not be ready to accept quite yet. “In the past year, I’ve had three people tell me I’m a legend,� she said. “I just don’t feel I’m old enough to have that status.�

Life & Style : Fall 2012 27

work spaces

WORK SPACES da Vinci

Robotic tool changes the way doctors operate Dr. Srinivas Rajamahanty hasn’t been in Carbondale too long, but he’s grown to appreciate his home for both personal and professional reasons. Relocating to the region in August 2011 from the WinstonSalem, N.C., area to join the medical staff at Southern Illinois Healthcare, Rajamahanty — better known as Dr. Raj in the confines of the hospital — has already made a difference in the lives of many residents. “I wanted to work in a small community hospital,” he said. Before his previous career at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, he had lived and practiced in New York. The adjustment has been a positive one. “Professionally, it’s been very satisfying,” he said. “Business is picking up, and the people here are very friendly.” On a personal level, the move to Southern Illinois has brought Rajamahanty closer to family living in Champaign, making the choice an even better one. It’s also one that has benefited patients at the SIH-operated Memorial Hospital of Carbondale. Rajamahanty has been trained on the da Vinci, a robotic medical tool that has changed the way surgery can be done. The device offers a number of advantages for both the doctor and his patients. On the doctor’s side, the device allows for advanced magnification, 360-degree rotation and stability of tools not possible with natural tremors of the human hand. For the patient, the da Vinci offers a less invasive laparoscopic surgery option, as well as less blood caused

28 Life & Style : Fall 2012

The doctor controls the da vinci from a station across the room, his assistants aid from the tableside area.

Looking through the viewfinder on the da vinci controls, the doctor has a three-dimensional view of the area he’s operated on, demonstrated here with the test palette.

by the reduced need for large incisions and a shorter post-operative recovery time. “The robot is more of an extension of the surgeon during the procedure,” he said. “The robot does not replace your

intuition as a surgeon or your knowledge. It just helps you, and you can use it to your advantage for your patients.” — Adam Testa

photography by Aaron Eisenhauer

The clasps on the ends of the robot’s arms are designed to fit a number of tools that can be used during different types of surgery. Keeping the environment sterile is essential in the operating room. To enter the area, doctors, staff and visitors have to be dressed in full scrubs with footgear. During actual procedures, gloves like these and mouth covers also become essential.

What music is playing in the operating room depends on the staff involved. When it’s left to registered nurse Adam Benns, lead RN on da vinci cases, the satellite radio tuner is set to the Lithium station, which plays primarily grunge rock from the 1990s.

These are the robotic arms of the da vinci. One of them holds the camera, while the others can be fitted with a number of attachable instruments used for surgery. The robot can use a full 360-degree range of motion, removing the limitations of the human hand. The metal attachments are also designed to put no pressure on the patient’s skin.

This device is the control for the da vinci instruments. The doctor places two fingers inside the loops. By turning his hand or squeezing his fingers together, he rotates, moves, clasps and unclasps the machine’s instruments.

The rubbery palette at the bottom is a training tool used to demonstrate how the da vinci robot works. Staff at Memorial Hospital of Carbondale call it ‘Whoville’ because of its resemblance to something out of a Dr. Seuss book. The light at the top is the camera. Using the robotic control, the user lifts small rubber bands off the pointed structures and moves them to another.

Life & Style : Fall 2012 29

gadgets

Charged up The latest devices put an end to the clutter and the never-ending search for an outlet

So many electronics, so few electrical outlets. If that statement resonates with your daily struggles to keep your wide array of electronic toys and tools — from MP3 players and tablets to cellphones and digital cameras — fully charged, there’s no need to fear. There are a variety of different devices that add new dimensions to traditional chargers, eliminating the need to clutter a desk or suitcase with a half dozen tangled power cords or using alternative energy sources to power up your electronics.

Solio Classic2 and XDModo Description: A number of devices on the market help users go green with their electronics charging. Here are two different options, one perfect for use at home and the other handy on the go. With the Solio Classic2, a day of sun will grant the user three complete charges on portable electronics, and this updated model features a full-sized USB port allowing thousands of devices to easily connect. The easy-to-carry charger will hold its charge for up to one year, and at full capability will give most smartphones three complete charges, with each one taking about 90 minutes. Solio also designed the charger so that a pencil can be inserted into a central pivot point to make it possible to track the sun like a sundial. Point the device toward the sun and rotate it until the pencil no longer casts a shadow. Adjust it each time a shadow reappears for maximum solar capture efficiency. Another option, more suited toward use at home or at the office, is the XDModo. This device attaches to an exterior window, collecting energy from the sun to charge electronic devices. Users can stick the solar charger to the window with the photovoltaic panels facing out and then feed off a cable to a portable device positioned in the cooling shade. The charger itself contains a battery that takes about 13 hours of sunlight to reach full charge. It also has over-charge and over-heating protection built in to keep the charger safe. Cost: Solio Classic2: $100 at solio.com; XDModo: $70 at amazon.com

— Adam Testa

The Sanctuary Description: Designed by Bluelounge, this device doubles as both a charging unit for a vast variety of electronics devices and a storage unit for keys, wallets and other loose items. The look is simple, but the practically is boundless. The compact design conceals a universal charger compatible with more than 1,500 electronic devices from most major brands, and a USB post allows hundreds of additional devices to be charged using only the Sanctuary. Perfect for use while traveling or at home on a nightstand, this charging outlet keeps the clutter off of desks, counters and other precious surfaces. There’s no need to carry a handful of bulky chargers on the road when one device can handle everything. Cost: $130 at bluelounge. com

30 Life & Style : Fall 2012

IDAPT i4 Description: This desktop charging unit eliminates the clutter of cords and cables from the user’s desktop while simultaneously charging up to four mobile devices. Compatible with more than 4,500 devices ranging from phones to GPS units and portable video game systems to digital cameras, the IDAPT i4 is also customizable with interchangeable tips and a scratch-proof surface. The chargers are available in a number of colors — black, white, silver and pink. The unit connects to wall outlets with a tra-ditional power cable and has can be turned on and off to save energy when it’s not in use. Cost: $60 at idapt.com

Life & Style : Fall 2012 31

recreation

Take the

challenge

Lake of Egypt Country Club Pro: Mark Faulkner Hole: No. 1 Par: 4 Distance: White/Blue 409; Green/White 358; Red/Gold 264

Nine of the toughest holes you’ll ever play in Southern Illinois

This is the tough starting hole at Lake of Egypt Country Club, so it’s only fitting it should be the first hole on this fictional course.

“The ground is hard, and the fairway slopes from left to right,” Faulkner says. “So, if you hit down the middle of the fairway, you’re going to be in the right rough. You have to hit your tee shot left center to be in the fairway. “Aiming left center down the fairway, if you don’t hit it perfect, you hit it out of bounds. It’s kind of a Catch 22.” But, it’s really the second shot that is difficult on this hole. The green is elevated and treacherous. “The important club selection is on your second shot,” Faulkner says. “The big bank in front of the green, if you come up just two feet short of the putting surface, it runs all the way down the hill. “Now, you’ve got literally a 30-yard pitch shot up the hill, and, if the pin is in front, it’s virtually impossible to get close. If the pin is in the front, it’s pretty common for people to putt it off, and it goes all the way back to the bottom of the hill. I make a lot of friends with a front pin placement.”

Golf courses in Southern Illinois may not rival Augusta National or the Olympic Club at San Francisco, but places like Crab Orchard, Stone Creek, Kokopelli and The Gambit offer their own challenges. Quality golf courses dot the region’s landscape. We’ve asked the professionals at nine local courses to select the toughest holes on their course. Some of the selections were predictable; others were surprising. The holes range from innocent-looking par 3s to intimidating, uphill doglegs. This nine-hole collection might not bring Webb Simpson or Bubba Watson to their knees, but it is virtually guaranteed to raise the blood pressure of the average golfer. This isn’t a definitive list, but nine of the toughest holes in Southern Illinois include: — Les Winkeler

The Gambit Pro: Todd Hanson Hole: No. 2 Par: 4 Distance: Black 398; Gold 364, Silver 332, Red 302

The Southern File Photo

This uphill dogleg right is a nightmare second hole.

Players finish putting just beyond a fountain golfers have to shoot over to reach the green on hole 16 at Crab Orchard Golf Course in Carterville.

32 Life & Style : Fall 2012

“It’s a turtle-back fairway,” Hanson says. “It’s subtle. You hit it too good, it goes off the fairway. If you pull it, you’re in a lateral hazard. You push it, you’re in a lateral hazard. And, if you hit it dead center, you have an uphill approach shot to a green that is very narrow and an overhanging tree to hit through.” The change in elevation from tee to green is about 30 to 35 feet, making club selection on the second shot crucial. “The best way to describe it is straight uphill,” Hanson says. “I would say it’s a one or two club elevation, depending on the wind.” And, given the distance, most players are hitting a long club into a tricky green with out of bounds long left. “It takes two accurate shots, and you’re still not done when you’re on the green,” Hanson says. “It’s that simple.”

Crab Orchard Golf Club Pro: Steve Heckel Hole: No. 12 Par: 4 Distance: Black 340, Blue 331, White 327, Gold 320, Red 312 From the tee box, No. 12 looks relatively easy. It’s a short, straight, flat par 4. Crab Orchard regulars know otherwise.

“It’s intimidating only if you know the hole,� Heckel says. “You look at the scorecard and see from the back tee it’s only 380 yards long. Again, the hole doesn’t look as difficult as it really ends up being.�

Although benign looking from the tee, an errant shot right is out of bounds. There is a cross bunker in the fairway, a small pond to the left, waisthigh grass beyond the pond, bunkers at the green, and out of bounds beyond the green.

The landing area for the tee shot is just 20 to 25 yards wide. “Then, the green has a lot of slope to it,� Heckel says. “Again, it’s the highest stroke average over par. It requires a lot of thinking as to how you want to play the hole.�

“People that know it is going to be difficult to get there in two, they probably don’t realize it, but subconsciously they’re trying to hit the ball a little harder. Then, they’re spraying the ball, and the trouble comes into play.� With the size and topography of the green, three-putts are common.

“You can hit the green and still have a difficult time making par,� Barge says. “If you get away from here with a par, you are really, really happy.�

“On the back side of it is a lake,� says Kent English, a pro shop employee. “And, the wind comes off that lake and blows at you. A lot of times, you can’t judge what club to use because of the wind.� And, since the tee box is significantly lower than the green, the strength of the wind isn’t readily apparent.

What’s more, most players disregard the flag flapping on the green. “Club selection is the primary problem,� English says. “When you come up here and see how much wind there is, you probably would have wanted to use one or two clubs more.�

The Links at Kokopelli Pro: Jesse Barge Hole: No. 15 Par: 4 Distance: Black 472, Gold 453, Blue 424, White 409, Red 374 Length is what makes this hole so difficult.

“There are a lot of clubs in Southern Illinois that have par 5s this length, and a lot of them aren’t uphill this much,� Barge says. “You take the elevation change, and you’re close to a 500-yard par 4.� Even the best players are forced to hit fairway woods or long irons into a large, but undulating, green surrounded by steep bunkers.

Franklin County Country Club Pro: Curt Lee Hole: No. 3 Par: 3 Distance: Black 154, Blue 137, White/Gold 117 It’s what you don’t see that makes this hole difficult.

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recreation Hickory Ridge Public Golf Center Pro: Michael Day Hole: No. 16 Par: 4 Distance: Gold 417, Blue 394, White 365, Red 338

Paul Newton

The tee shot on No. 16 has brought many a player to their knees.

The narrow 16th hole fairway at Hickory Ridge Public Golf Center is flanked by trees.

Jackson Country Club Pro: Samantha Sambursky Hole: No. 16 Par: 3 Distance: Blue 200, White 190, Gold 150 Getting to the green on this uphill par 3 is the key.

“It’s a tough green to hit,” Sambursky says. “One, it’s really elevated and the green itself has two tiers, so it has a lot of break. Depending on where the pin placement is, it can almost play as two separate greens.” Most players struggle with club selection on this hole. “No. 1, it’s uphill,” Sambursky says. “So, it’s at least one club. Most days, it’s two. And, if there is any wind, it can potentially be a three-club wind. From the whites, it plays 190, so it’s a long hole, anyway. When you get into the higher clubs, people tend to be less consistent.” Putting is no picnic on this hole, either. “On any given day, you can have several feet of break on a putt, depending on where the pin is at,” Sambursky says.

34 Life & Style : Fall 2012

“With 16, there is such weight put on your tee shot,” Day says. “That’s the shot you have to hit straight. If you hit it a considerable distance, you actually get past most of the ugly stuff.” And, there is lots of ugly stuff. The landing area is only about 30 feet wide. The landing area slopes down on both sides, leading to a deep ravine on the left and large trees on the right. “If you have to miss it, you have to miss right because then you stand a chance, first to find your ball,” Day says. Some people actually play a short iron off the tee, and then hit a fairway wood into the green. “You’re just trying to minimize,” Day says. “If you don’t go into that hole with a good mindset … you’re just trying to minimize big numbers. You really look to play it like a 4.5.”

Rend Lake Golf Course

Stone Creek Golf Club

Pro: Craig Zinzilieta Hole: No. 18 Par: 4 Distance: Blue 425, White 400, Gold 368, Red 275 No. 18 at Rend Lake is what finishing holes are supposed to be like. It’s a 425-yard dogleg left with plenty of trouble.

“It’s a pretty demanding tee shot,” Zinzilieta says. “You’ve got water left, trees right and a fairway bunker. Then, your second shot is over water to a green with bunkers on either side. It’s probably about a three-club green, depending on where the pin is at.” A typical drive leaves the average player with about 160 to 175 yards remaining. “You probably only have to carry 140 to 150 yards to carry the water,” Zinzilieta says. “Depending on where the pin is that brings the bunkers into play. If you put the pin back right, that bunker will be worn out by the end of the day.” The green is big, 35 to 40 steps wide. “You see a lot of three putts,” Zinzilieta says. “It’s not overly undulating, but it’s difficult to read because it is so big and the break is relatively subtle.”

Pro: Kenny Mason Hole: No. 18 Par: 4 Distance: Black 495, Blue 447, White 390, Gold 380, Red 358 From the back tee at Stone Creek’s No. 18, a player sees almost as much water as grass.

“The amount of water we have out here is probably the hardest part of this hole,” Mason says. “Not only that, but the wind normally goes from south to north, so it usually blows right back in your face. That makes for a long par 4.” The golfer actually has to carry two bodies of water to reach the fairway. In addition, a large lake lines the entire right side of the fairway. At one point, the water cuts back into the fairway, but that water can’t be seen from the tee box. “It gets into people’s heads real quick,” Mason says. “It’s pretty intimidating. If wind kicks up pretty good, a guy on the back tees can barely get it past the ladies’ tees. You still have a 220 to 230 yard shot into the green.”

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Life & Style : Fall 2012 35

wine

How story by Cara Recine Good wines almost always start with a good story and a colorful past, and Port-style dessert wines are no different. In the 17th century, during one of Britain’s many conflicts with France, the English wanted nothing to do with French wines. They were reluctant to give up wine altogether, so they turned to Portugal, where they would dock ships and stock up. But they needed a way to give the wine a better chance of surviving the long ocean voyage north to England. “Let’s add some brandy to it,” someone must have suggested. So they did, and not only did this “fortified” wine make the trip, it tasted better, too. A few hundred years later, Guy Renzaglia, known as the father of the Southern Illinois wine industry, decided he would try his talented hand at Port-style dessert wines. “It was actually my brother Mark’s idea to call it Porto di Guido, to honor my father,” said Paul Renzaglia, Guy’s son and current owner, manager and winemaker at Alto Vineyards.

Ports and Port-style dessert wines come up winners

This first commercial Port-style wine was a 1995 vintage, and, not only has it won all kinds of awards, it has inspired other modern winemakers to try their hands at the wine. Along with Renzaglia and Alto Vineyards, Karen Hand at Blue Sky Vineyard in Makanda and Dr. Paul Jacobs at Von Jakob Vineyard in Pomona and Alto Pass, were recent winners for their sweet, Port-style dessert wines at the 2012 Illinois State Fair Wine Competition in late June. Obviously, they have the most common Port wine profile down: Red and sweet and served as a dessert wine, Ports are richer and full-bodied with more alcohol content – about 18 percent alcohol – which is why they’re called fortified wines. “Dessert-style Ports should also be rich and luscious,” Renzaglia said. Ports can also come in dry, semi-dry and white varieties, but that’s not found nearly as often.

How it’s made

There are two ways to make a Port-style dessert wine.

The first is the traditional, classic way, which is used by Renzaglia and Hand. The red wine is fermented until it reaches the sugar content desired by the winemaker. “The sweetness comes from natural sugars and fermentation,” Hand said. That’s when the brandy – grape spirits (wine distilled to a higher proof of alcohol) – is added. The wine is then aged in barrels anywhere from several months to years. “The barrels are neutral barrels,” Hand explained. “They no longer impart oak flavors to the wine while aging. I don’t want any oak flavor in my Port.” After bottling, it’s aged another year before being released to the public. The wine continues to age in the bottle, and should get better, even after opening. “It’s remarkable how good that ’95 Porto di Guido is,” said Renzaglia, who recently hosted a vertical tasting in which all vintages of Porto di Guido were tasted and

A Port by any other name Go to www.WineCountrySI.com for articles, winemaker profiles, events and more from around Southern Illinois.

36 Life & Style : Fall 2012

Ports are fortified wines made in Portugal from the Douro region, the third-oldest protected wine region in the world. Ports are made worldwide, but they can’t completely claim the name anymore. In 2006, the European Community’s Protected Designation of Origin made it illegal to use the name

“Port” on a label unless it comes from the Portuguese region, like the Champagne or Burgundy regions in France. They left a little wiggle room, though. When the ruling came down in 2006, winemakers who were making Port wines before that were allowed to keep the “Port” name on their labels. Others must use “Port-style.”

compared. “We cracked it open for the tasting, and it was even better than before.” One of the most exciting things for Hand is following these traditional methods with a regional and modern approach. “I think it’s wonderful to take something so traditional and discover how to follow that tradition while finding out what works for our region,” she said. The second way to create a Port-style dessert wine is to ferment the wine to dry, then add sugar and wine spirits. This method is used by Jacobs at Von Jakob, who says he was inspired by Guy Renzaglia to begin making Port. The winery’s first commercial release was in 1997. “I like this method for a couple of reasons,” Jacobs said. “It’s easier for me to control, and it’s easier to get a balance of sugar and alcohol.” All use different grapes in the Port-style wines, and sources say anywhere from 80 to 120 grape varieties are used in wineproducing countries.

Storing

Like other red wines, Port-style dessert wines are best stored on their sides in a cool, dark environment; they definitely need a constant and consistent temperature. They should be served at about 65 degrees. Once opened, a good Port can last weeks, months or years, depending on the quality of the wine. And, like any dessert wine, with Ports, you have a little more time to keep it because the higher alcohol content protects the wine from oxidation. Traditional Port styles usually just get better, once open. “It continues to age in the bottle and actually changes,” Renzaglia said. “It gets better, more caramelized.”

Serving

Winning Ways Alto Vineyards, Blue Sky Winery and Von Jakob Winery received awards for their Port-style dessert wines at the 2012 Illinois State Fair Wine Competition in late June. Sponsored by the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Association, judges there awarded: ALTO VINEYARDS

2011 Porto di Guido (Chambourcin grapes) Silver Paul Renzaglia: It’s a premium Port. It really speaks best to the traditional, classic Ports. NV* Heartland Port (Concord grapes) Bronze Paul Renzaglia: This is a fun, lighter wine. It’s very approachable and a good introduction to Ports.

BLUE SKY VINEYARD

NV* Norton Renaissance (Norton grapes) Double Gold/Best Dessert wine from any appellation Karen Hand: I like Norton grapes for Port-style wines. The higher acidity can stand up to the sweetness and the spirits.

VON JAKOB VINEYARD

2009 Red Oak Port (Chambourcin grapes) Bronze Paul Jacobs: It’s slightly lighter and fruitier, full-bodied but light.

*NV: Non-Vintage is usually a blend of like varieties from two or more vintage years. In Vintage Port-style wines, at least 85 percent of the original wine must come from the same year’s harvest. “I like creating a Non-Vintage Port-style,” says Karen Hand. “It gives me more flexibility, to combine the best wine from the best grapes.” To create the Norton Renaissance, she used 75 percent Norton grapes, 25 percent Frontenac from 2009.

Decanting is good. Uncork the bottle and let it breath for about 30 minutes before serving. Most Ports are served in a smaller glass in smaller amounts because of the intensity and alcohol content. A serving temperature of about 65 degrees is recommended.

Pairings

You can’t go wrong drinking a Port-style wine all by itself. It is dessert! I t can easily be paired though, if you want a onetwo punch. Try it with chocolate, rich nuts, Stilton or Cheddar cheeses, darker fruits. If you’re so inclined, pairing a Port with a high-quality cigar has been a traditional way to imbibe. If you go to Alto for a tasting, ask to try it with a little Fresh Butter and Cream Fudge from Julie’s Corner Store in Lacon, Ill. In their restaurant, Von Jakob uses it to cook. “It makes a very nice reduction sauce,” said Frank Wesseln, tasting room manager. “We also use it to make the winery’s in-house salad dressing, a sweet vinaigrette.” Wesseln also recommends pairing Port with a German chocolate cake or cheesecake.

—Additional sources: wine.about.com, wineintro.com and wineenthusiast.com

CARA RECINE is editor of Life & Style in Southern Illinois and features and special projects editor at The Southern Illinoisan. Email her at cara.recine@thesouthern.com.

Life & Style : Fall 2012 37

in our backyard

Living

outside

Year-round patio lets you live outdoors spring, summer, fall and winter

PAUL NEWTON

story by Les O’Dell

The outdoor patio at the Fulk residence in Carbondale features a swimming pool, an outdoor kitchen, bathrooms, firepits and plenty of seating.

38 Life & Style : Fall 2012

If you’re looking for Cathy and Doug Fulk, you probably won’t find them in any of the rooms inside their rural Carbondale home. It is more likely for them to be using one of their favorite rooms — the one just outside the house. Like many Southern Illinoisans, the Fulks spend as much time as possible in their outdoor living space: a year-round patio. “We now have an outdoor house, so to speak,” Cathy Fulk says. Adjacent to an in-ground swimming pool and a nearby pool house is an area covered by an awning and outfitted with all of the comforts of home: an outdoor kitchen with a sink, grill and refrigerator, outdoor sofas and chairs, coffee tables, a dining area and a bar. Fire pits give the space a welcoming feel, as well as serve as a heat source. “Outdoor rooms are certainly gaining in popularity in our area,” says Jay Hashbarger, landscape designer with Greenridge Landscaping in Carbondale. “These areas extend the living area of the house, and you’re able to carry on many of the activities that normally would happen in the house outside.” Mike Eader of Firemasters in Carterville says year-round patios require, at minimum, furniture and some shade. “To truly be used year-round, you need to add a heating feature or a fire feature so you can use the area more. Then it becomes more of an outdoor room,” he says. Eader says fire pits or outdoor fireplaces work well for cooler weather and an awning or pergola for shade in the summer months. The addition of plumbing and power lays the groundwork for complete outdoor kitchens. “Then you’ve got basically an entire outdoor room, so you don’t have to be cooped up inside,” he adds. That is exactly how the Fulks use their outdoor space. “I hate to be indoors. So, for us, we now have a great place to spend time outdoors, and we can use it for a majority of the year,” Fulk says.

When it comes to furniture ‌ If you’re looking for patio furniture you don’t have to quit using when the weather turns cool, experts suggest looking for 100 percent aluminum frames, which won’t rust. Even if you buy wicker or resin wicker furniture, the frames should be aluminum. Make sure the aluminum has a goodquality powder coating, which will hold

up better to outdoor conditions. Cast aluminum is often a good choice, because it’s heavy. Another option is teak, especially Brazilian teak. Teak will weather and turn gray, but its high oil content will keep it from breaking down the way many other woods will.

If the furniture has cushions, look for good outdoor fabrics and fills that contain polyfill and are wrapped for durability. A cushion can have a thin foam core and still be good, but a cushion that’s all foam will break down easily and compact with wear.

— MCT

Southern Illinois’ only

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Joel Hawksley

collectors

Brian and Judy Evans of Carterville have turned their rock ‘n’ roll collection into a music hall of fame.

More than Brian and Judy Evans’ collection is a rock ‘n’ roll dream story by Joe Szynkowski Stepping into Brian and Judy Evans’ garage in Carterville is like walking face first into a rock ‘n’ roll force field. The earpiercing sounds of rock guitar wail from the concert DVD playing on the massive flat-screen TV. The head-spinning sights of framed album covers and ticket stubs fill the room’s walls. You can’t look away. Why would you want to? “This is hoarding in a good way, a positive and clean way,” Brian jokes. The Evans’ garage is an anthology of rock-inspired memories. Ask Brian about any one of the dozens of framed album

40 Life & Style : Fall 2012

covers and he will rattle off a story about how that record or band has positively impacted his life. Some of the couple’s memorabilia features autographs that they tracked down directly from artists like ZZ Top, Collective Soul and Dream Theater. “Going to shows is our release,” said Brian, service manager at Marion Ford Hyundai. “We go to shows, come home, download the memory and go see another one.” Brian’s passion for music started in the 1970s, when he bought his first KISS record. Shortly after the purchase, he

saw his first REO Speedwagon show and “everything changed.” “They motivated me,” he said. “It was such positive music. A lot of people talk about the negatives of rock ‘n’ roll, but for me it was the opposite. It made me want to get up early in the morning and work hard during the day. I have always followed the work-hard, play-hard type of philosophy.” The Evans’ garage walls have something for everyone – from Alabama to Red Hot Chili Peppers and everything in between. Classic rock is everywhere, and so is 80s

JOEL HAWKSLEy

hair metal. Just don’t ask Brian to put on an opera album. “That’s where we’re stopping,” he laughs. Various memorabilia is also sprinkled throughout the Evans’ home. The hallway outside of the garage features more than 500 pins from various Hard Rock Cafes across the country. Also in the hall are framed displays of ticket stubs dating back to the 1981 Foreigner ticket. Brian credits Judy with supporting his hard-rocking hobby. “She has been a trooper and just keeps pushing me,” he said of his wife of three years. “She is always looking for shows and surprising me with tickets. She is the only reason that this is all possible.” An avid music fan herself, Judy enjoys the experience. “Some of the music is a little heavy for me, but I mostly love it all,” she said. “I really like the classic and 80s music. I actually think those guys have settled down a little bit and gotten more into the music as they have gotten older.” This power couple isn’t done adding to the collection quite yet – far from it. They are aiming to see 15 shows this year, including September’s trip to Wrigley Field in Chicago to see Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band’s Wrecking Ball Tour. “The Bruce show is a big deal for us,” said Brian, clutching a framed, hand-written Springsteen set list from a 2008 show. “We’re bringing our son and daughter-in-law from California … we gave him the tickets for Father’s Day and he started to cry.” Springsteen is on Brian’s short list of artists he would still like to meet, although rubbing elbows with “The Boss” isn’t a huge priority. “Meeting them is not really the most important thing for us,” Brian said. “These guys are all a part of our lives. They’re with us every day or every week, even though they’re not physically standing here.” The Evans have sure stood next to plenty of their idols. They have met the members of REO Speedwagon, Collective Soul, Tesla, Styx and many more. “The one thing you realize when you do actually talk with these guys is that they’re all about as normal as you

Among the collection are concert ticket stubs and more than 500 Hard Rock Cafe pins from all over the country.

can get,” Brian said. “They just have a special craft and are really talented.” Brian, who doesn’t play an instrument other than air guitar, admires the longevity of some of his favorite bands. He has seen REO more than 40 times, and says that Kevin Cronin and the boys keep getting better with age. “Never did I ever dream as a high school student that I would be listening to REO Speedwagon when I was a 53-year-old man,” Brian said. “But they’re not just becoming a bunch of old dudes. They blow us away every time. “I ridiculously respect all of these guys. It is truly overwhelming to me to see them go up on a stage and just blaze for three hours. I always say that somebody has to be the fan … and that’s us.”

‘Never did I ever dream as a high school student that I would be listening to REO Speedwagon when I was a 53-yearold man. But they’re not just becoming a bunch of old dudes. They blow us away every time.’ — Brian Evans, Rock ‘n’ Roll Collector

Life & Style : Fall 2012 41

Aaron Eisenhauer

good eats

Shop it with a Chef

story by Cara Recine You might have visited your local farmer’s market before, but have you ever shopped it through a chef’s eyes? Or his palate? William Connors, affectionately and widely known as “Chef Bill,” sees the opportunity to purchase produce from smaller, local farmers as a kind of smorgasbord, offering not only the chance to sniff and squeeze your way through the items displayed in stalls, but to be part of a community. “I love to meet and talk to new people,” Chef Bill says. “I also come here for things I don’t grow in my garden, but it’s a meeting place, too.” It’s at the farmer’s market where Connors meets up with consumers and producers of like mind, where he can talk about food and discuss his passion for ecologically sound farming. Connors has been chef for University Housing Residence Hall Dining at SIU Carbondale since 1995, where he has created a ‘sustainability’ network at the university, which now boasts 30 percent

42 Life & Style : Fall 2012

See the farmer’s market through the eyes of William Connors

local food purchases. He has also managed to renew student interest in the dwindling field of agriculture. He gardens organically with students, using their produce in the dining halls. “Students also now dine on pork and beef raised at the university,” Connors says. Chef Bill, who also serves on the Illinois Food, Farms and Jobs Council, was inspired to pursue sustainable living — particularly when it involved food — by Rick Bayless of Chicago, award-winning chef, author of authentic Mexican food books and big into growing local, selling local and eating local. “I saw him in Chicago a while back, five or seven years ago, and he was an inspiration,” Connors says. “I came back and really got serious about growing, selling and eating local produce, which by the way is also good for the local economy. It creates demand, then jobs.” On a Saturday morning at the Carbondale Farmer’s Market, we created a job for Chef Bill. We wanted to see and hear everything through him, a professionally trained and working chef who has been cooking since he was 15.

As we strolled amid the stalls and a comfortable crowd of shoppers and vendors, we were accompanied by an acoustic trio, laughter and conversation. And, so, began our class. First: Go early. “The early bird really does get the best there is,” Chef Bill said. “You’ll have a lot more choice.” Second: Start on one end of the market and make an entire circuit before you purchase anything. “I go all the way through, then turn around and get what I want,” said Connors, who often is thinking about recipes for what he’s seeing or supplementing one he already has in mind. He buys plums from Katelyn Wiggs, who is working the Flamm’s stall. He plans to use them in a recipe he saw in the latest issue of Bon Appetit: chicken with roasted tomatoes and a plum pan sauce. “If you don’t have a recipe, just try to see what looks good. It doesn’t have to be complicated. How about tomatoes and green beans?” If you aren’t someone who cooks regularly or it just isn’t your thing, you still have to eat. “Buy your fruits and vegetables here, as a supplement to

Fresh Herb and Goat Cheese Stuffed Grilled Portobello 5 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed Extra Virgin Olive Oil Salt and pepper, to taste 8 ounces herbed goat cheese 1 pint heirloom cherry tomatoes 1 small clove garlic, minced 3 to 4 large fresh basil leaves Fresh Baby Arugula lettuce leaves

something else or to eat along,” Connors said. “They taste good and they’re really good for you, too. Make another round to make your purchases. Third: Develop relationships with growers. We didn’t meet any who weren’t friendly and outgoing, eager to share their knowledge and the fruits of their labors. It’s more fun that way, and there are more tangible benefits. If you see something on your first walk through that you have questions about, stop and ask. For instance, do you know about elephant garlic? It’s bigger, as the name implies, and, as Chef Bill explained, it’s sweeter, mellower and easier to use. How much to use? “Just like regular garlic; as much as you want.” Fourth: Talk to other shoppers. For some reason, most people at the farmer’s market seem more relaxed, really enjoying their Saturday morning. Friendly shoppers will share with new acquaintances their recipes, favorite items and where to find them. Fifth: If you want chemical-free produce, look for little signs that say “no chemicals.” Steve Smith, a regular vendor, said he was inspired a while back to quit using chemicals on his produce. Greenridge Ecological Farms in rural Carbondale also

AARON EISENHAUER

Clean the mushrooms, then drizzle with a little olive oil, season with salt and pepper and place over medium heat on an open barbecue grill, face down. After a few minutes, turn them over and continue to cook. In a mixing bowl combine the quartered cherry tomatoes with minced garlic, salt and pepper, to taste, and the basil. When the mushrooms begin to get soft and give off a little of their juice, add a nice spoonful of the goat cheese into the center of each Portobello. Close the lid of the grill and let cook until the cheese gets bubbly and the mushrooms are nice and soft Top mushrooms with cherry tomato mixture and Baby Arugula.

Katelyn Wiggs points to a carton of plums as she offers more information about the fruits. Left: Chef Bill Connors holds a head of elephant garlic grown by local farmer Gene Dillow.

Life & Style : Fall 2012 43

‘I think of “sustainable” as something we can continue to do in the manner we’re doing it in for the long term. It can apply to anything, not just food. It’s something we grow in a manner that’s good for the earth and for those of us who live on the earth. I like to support local and small farmers, because most of the time they’re doing it in a sustainable fashion; no chemicals, or making the earth do what we want it to do. And, frankly, it just tastes better, too.’

Aaron Eisenhauer

good eats

Chef Bill makes his way through the gathering at the Carbondale Farmers Market.

grows organically. Steve Sawyer and Brenda Smith put out a beautiful spread. Sixth: Don’t pass up non-organic growers. Ask about spraying. “Not all vegetables have to be sprayed to be healthy, like peppers or potatoes,” — William Connors Connors said. Don’t rule out a farmer

Grilled Eggplant Relish 3 tablespoons olive oil 7 small eggplant, ends trimmed, cut into 1-inch wide slices 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts 3 ounces goat cheese, crumbled 1/3 cup basil, thinly sliced 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Sprinkle sliced eggplant with salt and let sit for 25 minutes on cookie sheet. Place a grill pan over medium-high heat or preheat a gas or charcoal grill. Drizzle the olive oil over the slices of eggplant and toss to coat sprinkle with salt and fresh ground black pepper. Grill the eggplants until tender and grill marks appear, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Dice the eggplants. Toss with the pine nuts, goat cheese,and basil. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Cook’s note:Toast sliced baguettes rubbed with garlic and olive oil in the oven and top with relish.

44 Life & Style : Fall 2012

who does spray some things. He or she can still offer you delicious veggies. Seventh: Start now; there’s still plenty of time to take advantage of these opportunities. “October and November are some of the best months at the farmer’s market,” Chef Bill said.

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Life & Style : Fall 2012 45

cover

The

world at our

Modern technology is everywhere we go

story by Les O’Dell photography by Photography by Lori

JOyC

E LI E

N yON

G

Between them, the Reedy family of Carterville share the latest technology: iPhones, iPads, streaming media players, electronic book readers and a super-remote that controls televisions, DvDs, audio systems and more.

46 Life & Style : Fall 2012

f there is a so-called poster child for the increasing role of technology in our lives, Dan Reedy’s face would greet all of us from banners, brochures, and, of course, electronic displays and computer screens. The Carterville resident not only makes a living with computers and technology (he’s an informational technology manager for University Housing at SIU Carbondale), but his childhood love of devices and gadgets permeates every aspect of his life away from work, too. He begins each day by reaching over to the bedside table and turning off an alarm (often emanating from an alarm clock application on a tablet computer), then checks email messages on his iPhone before checking social media feeds, especially his Twitter account. “That’s all before breakfast,” he says.

At work

With all of the mobile computing power available today, people do not have to be at work in order to work. Smartphones and tablets have made wherever you are into your office. “We’re completely mobile now,” says Jessi Miller, manager of Cellular Connection in Herrin. “We can do anything from our phones or tablets that we can do from our desktop computer. They have definitely revolutionized the way we do business.” Reedy’s office includes a couple of desktop computers, a laptop, an iPad and a handful of other electronic tools. Granted, he works in technology, but many Southern Illinois business leaders are just as devoted to technology, with many using smartphones and tablets for presentations, keeping track of appointments, communicating with coworkers and doing paperwork — without paper.

Photography By Lori

The rest of the Reedy clan is technologically savvy, too. His wife, Lauren, also uses an iPhone, and, together with their four children ranging in age from 1 to 7, the Reedys share three iPads, a couple of streaming media players and some electronic book readers. Their eldest son has even mastered the family’s high-tech remote control — a single smart device programmed to operate televisions, DVD players, audio systems and more. Families such as the Reedys are becoming the norm in Southern Illinois. Technology has not just entered our lives as a curiosity; devices of all kinds are doing all sorts of things for us at work, at home, in the car and even outside. More than 100 million Americans use smartphones — devices that give users the means to keep their calendar in their pocket, access the World Wide Web, read books, use specialized software and even control other devices. Electronic readers, such as Amazon’s Kindle and Barnes and Noble’s Nook, are popular alternatives to traditional published books and magazines, with electronic books making up about 9 percent of total consumer book sales. Tablet devices, such as the Apple iPad and Samsung Galaxy, also are a growing part of the personal computing market. More than 12 million units with the Android operating system have been sold, and Apple has sold nearly 70 million iPads. Both the smartphones and the tablets can be customized with downloadable software programs called apps for anything from playing games to tracking budgets and ordering food. With the prevalence of phones, pads and programs, technology is a constant. Everywhere we go, our gadgets and gizmos are at our fingertips.

Life & Style : Fall 2012 47

cover At home

Technological advances have found their way into practically every room of the house. The latest refrigerators sport Internet-ready touchscreens, allowing instant access to recipes, nutritional information and shopping lists. Many home heating and cooling systems, as well as electrical installations, feature the ability to control temperature or even individual lights from the touch of a button on a smartphone or tablet. Homes can even be monitored remotely through technology, says Josh Dice, general manager of Security Alarm Corporation in Carterville. “Today, you can completely control your home security system, arm or disarm it, and even look at the security cameras in and around your home through your iPad,” he explains. “You even can control the lights and thermostat in your home when you’re away from home. Anything you want to control, you can do it from your iPad or phone.” Dice says the ability to control systems remotely and to “look in” have been very popular with Southern Illinois homeowners. He says the remote systems also can be used to provide access to the home. “If someone has forgotten their key, or, if, for instance, a housekeeper is coming with the system and electronic door locks, you can unlock the house completely from your iPad.” Perhaps technology is most prevalent in our homes with entertainment systems. Reedy says his family has not used cable television for five or six years, instead relying on a high definition antenna for local channels and using streaming video services, including Netflix and Hulu, and Internet radio sources, such as Pandora and Spotify. The family also uses Apple TV, a tool that ties other devices to the home’s television, often to watch items downloaded from iTunes or other online sources. “Apple TV acts as a way of getting content from the iPad to the TV,” Reedy says, explaining that a feature called Airplay allows users to send video to the television from a computer or tablet wirelessly. “Push a button and what you watch on the iPad shows up on the television.” Reedy says not being able to watch live television from cable-only channels is not an inconvenience for his family

48 Life & Style : Fall 2012

for several reasons. First, he says he’s not much of a sports fan. Second, his family’s active lifestyle does not afford them the luxury of sitting down very often to watch television. And, third, he and Lauren try to limit what they call “screen time” for the children. “Everything is in a balance,” he explains. “We try to keep the kids to just 30 minutes of screen time a day. It’s a reward or a treat. And, we have a pretty firm Many Southern Illinoisans are using technology to enhance their in-home no-devices policy at entertainment. Besides streaming audio and video services, home-theater the table.” systems are becoming more popular. Many Southern Illinoisans are using technology to enhance their in-home entertainment. Besides and show you which way to go, so it’s all streaming audio and video services, familiar for you.” home theater systems are becoming more He adds that with smartphones come popular. Drew Ballsman, co-owner of HD smarter cars, where phones are paired Media Systems in Cape Girardeau, says with car stereos for hands-free calling, his company frequently installs home and high-tech applications include the theater projection systems in Southern streaming of Internet radio through Illinois — all with the ability to control the car speakers. The stereo systems systems from a tablet or phone. automatically recognize that the phone “Mobile tablets have become a huge is in the car and everything on the game-changer in the way we approach phone is controlled through the stereo’s controlling everything from the home main screen. theater system to the lighting and the “The screen even displays the album HVAC system,” he says. “The beauty is artwork, and some of them will even that almost everyone knows how to use audibly read your Twitter or Facebook one of the tablets, and the automation posts right through your car speakers,” comes at a price that can’t be beat.” he adds. John Rathjen, sales representative at Vogler Motor Co. in Carbondale, says In the car many new cars come with Bluetooth Our love of technology even travels wireless technology built in, enabling with us. Even though global positioning drivers to hear cellular phone calls satellite technology is not new to cars, through the vehicle’s stereo system and the systems continue to advance, giving even control an mp3 player with voice drivers even more information, says commands. Jeff Martin, owner of Stereo One in “You can say something like, ‘Play Carbondale. He explains many GPS systems now integrate current traffic into artist Rolling Stones,’ or ‘Play genre country,’ and the system will follow your navigational guidance, and some even commands.” give a snapshot of the roads. He says the features are especially “Most of them will give you traffic popular with drivers who grew up with in your major metropolitan areas, like video games and touch screens, and they St. Louis, so you can plan your route are becoming “must-haves.” accordingly,” Martin says. “Some will “Like any other technological even light up which particular lane you advancement, they become popular and need to be in for your planned turn or soon are something that people say they exit, and there are some units that even will display a photograph of the junction can’t live without,” he says.

The latest

outdoor cameras

let us capture the thrill of adventure Technology has made sharing the thrill of adventures with others even easier. No longer do outdoors people have to rely on verbal accounts and still images to tell their stories. Compact, high-definition video cameras like those from GoPro now allow thrill seekers of all types to show what it was really like on the trail, in the air or on the river. The GoPro camera is a professional video camera that can be securely mounted to a variety of items, including outdoor gear and sports equipment. The manufacturer, Woodman Labs, offers mounting kits to attach the camera to handlebars, surfboards, roll bars and even helmets, allowing users

to capture every aspect of practically any activity. “You can go on YouTube and other websites and see all kinds of things that people have filmed themselves doing with these cameras,” Phillip Carrier of Shawnee Trails in Carbondale says. “They give you the ability to take a full HD camera with you wherever you go, into the middle of any sporting event or anything.” Carrier says the cameras are designed to take some abuse, and they are waterproof. The high definition cameras retail for about $300.

The GoPro camera is a professional video camera that can be securely mounted in a variety of ways.

Life & Style : Fall 2012 49

cover

Readers move from curling up with a good book to curling up with their favorite book on

e-readers

Try our new small plates, including sliders, frites bar, flatbread pizzas and more.

Technology has even affected the way people relax and learn. What used to be curling up with a good book, has, for many, become curling up with a good book on an e-reader. Digital books available on a variety of electronic reading devices, such as the Nook, Kindle and iPad, has many people swiping touch screens instead of turning pages. Electronic book sales grew more than 117 percent in 2011 and, during the first three months of this year, exceeded hardcover book sales for the first time ever. Even local public libraries — longtime promoters of all things published — have joined the electronic book revolution. Twenty-nine local libraries have joined together in an organization called Southern Illinois Libraries on the Go to offer electronic books, audio programs and other resources to patrons for use on their e-readers and tablets.” Carbondale Public Library Director Diana Brawley Sussman says the libraries are eager to offer electronic books. “It’s not counter-cultural for us at all,” she explains. “Libraries are all about access to literature and information. As

far as what format that is in, it doesn’t matter to us. Whether you check it out at the library or at home, it still is from the library and it still fits our mission.” Through the service, which requires a free download in order to obtain materials as well as a valid library card from a member institution, patrons can check out materials for up to two weeks. After 14 days, the book automatically disappears from readers’ devices. It has been a very popular program. More than 4,000 electronic items were checked out in April from the Southern Illinois Libraries on the Go system. Just like with regular books, e-reader owners can also purchase titles from websites, such as Amazon and Barnes and Noble, as well as Apple. Brawley Sussman says convenience is one of the reasons that e-books, whether purchased or borrowed, are so popular. “Many of us have an e-reader or a smartphone, which can be used, as well,” she says. “Being able to open up a book and read it wherever you are is really convenient.” She adds many local libraries even offer free assistance with e-readers.

For more information, contact your local library or visit silibraries.lib.overdrive.com 50 Life & Style : Fall 2012

Users have a

big appetite

for their favorite restaurant food

Hungry? In the words of television commercials for iPhones, “There’s an app for that.” In fact, there are thousands of apps and tools available to help with appetites. From countless websites offering meal planning services and recipes to programs devoted to a single restaurant, food and technology seem to go together like pizza and delivery. Very much like pizza and delivery, says Steve Payne, owner of Quatro’s Pizza in Carbondale. He says his restaurant offers customers the ability to order food both on the restaurant’s website, as well as via an app for tablets and smartphones. “We’re seeing much more mobile ordering; I think it’s a function of convenience,” he says. Payne says a majority of delivery orders are still placed the “oldfashioned” way by telephone, but the number of orders coming in via technology is growing by more than 10 percent each year. “The app isn’t doing quite as much right now as online ordering, but it’s gaining momentum,” he says. “I expect it will out-do the online ordering within the year.” Other restaurants, both local and national chain establishments, offer apps and websites for ordering. Some even use quick response, or QR codes as they’re called, to interact with customers. These codes, which look like dotfilled squares, can be scanned with a smartphone and provide users with fast links to websites and apps for placing orders or giving additional information.

QR codes are a convenient way to get a ‘Quick Response’ from websites They look like a computer printer test gone horribly wrong, but those boxes with random-looking black and white squares hold a real purpose for technologically savvy businesses and individuals. The boxes — officially called QR codes (the QR stands for quick response) — are actually matrix barcodes. Once the code is scanned with a special application

Point your camera at the QR code

on a smartphone or tablet computer, the user is automatically taken to a website, provided special information or information is transferred. One example is a name, address and other information on a business card can automatically be added to a device’s contact list simply by scanning the QR code. Many local businesses use the codes to give customers access to special

Scan the QR code

The QR code will load instantly

offers, “inside” information and contests. The codes are showing up in print advertisements and flyers, business cards and even some billboards. Of course, users must have a smartphone or tablet and download a QR code scanning app such as “QR Droid,” “Barcode Scanner” and “ScanLife.” Most are free and available for both for Apple and Android systems.

you will be brought to the web page directly

Life & Style : Fall 2012 51

style

Attention! Military style lets you stay classy, day or night, casual or dressy

To keep from overdoing it, a single militaryinspired item per ensemble is enough. You don’t want to look like you are actually in the military, just a nod will suffice.

At first glance, Betsey Johnson’s leopard metal watch appears to be no-nonsense. Look closer, and you’ll see that feminine details abound. Glamorous without being girly, gold yet not stuffy, this watch will hit the mark every single time. Dillard’s, $95

52 Life & Style : Fall 2012

story by Rauna Davis With fashion week come and gone, the fall shopping spree has begun. Among a flurry of trends, military-inspired pieces were everywhere on the runways. From Michael Kors’ jungle-ready outfits to Victoria Beckam’s sultry, fitted dresses, brass buttons and epaulets abound. Double-breasted coats were heavily featured, as were collared shirts, pants with high waists, and caps with a brim. The influence even stretches to the eyes; a new optical collection by Ksubi titled “War” features several takes on military style, including classic aviators and black-rimmed spectacles. One great thing about this trend is that it can be dressed up or down, so a few key pieces in your ward-robe will go a long way. Perhaps the most popular example of militarystyle influence can be seen in jackets. They come in many styles, from short and fitted to long and loose. Classic colors include green, black, navy blue and khaki. Lauren Jeans Co. just released a military-inspired jean jacket, available at Dillard’s, that takes the look to a contemporary new level. Designers are now creating jackets in every hue from grey to bright red. For daytime, wear your military jacket with jeans and your favorite boots. Dress up your jacket and pants with a pair of heels. For work, don it over a solid-hue dress or with a button-up shirt and slacks. Many of us have a pair of shorts that fit the style, particularly army green shorts. Try wearing them over sheer or black tights. (In our mild climate, the shorts should last at least through the beginning of fall; add a scarf if it is fairly cool outside). Army green is also a popular color for military-inspired pants, which can take on a contemporary look when paired with a crisp white top. Complete the look with a brown belt to pull it all together. Navy blue is very much in style, and you can play on its nautical vibe by sporting it alongside red and white. Grey is incredibly versatile and tends to look good on every skin tone we’re seeing it everywhere now from head to toe. Feminize the masculinity of many military pieces by adding a touch of pink, or even by including lace.

BKE Woven Knit Hat, Buckle, $12.60

The neutral colors of this scarf make it a perfect addition to your military-inspired getup, as well as many other closet staples for the fall and winter season. The fringe and pattern makes it unique and awe-inspiring, not to mention on-trend. The tab-buttons on the gloves are reminiscent of military uniforms both past and present. Pair these pieces with a bomber jacket for a vintage look or wear them everyday with your favorite coat.

Belts are an important part of fashion for their functionality, but they are also a way to add style. Cinched waists are popular in military-inspired looks, and belts made with elastic will create a lovely hourglass shape on any body when worn above the navel. Daytrip Cut-Out Belt, Buckle, $16.95

Muk Luk Military Scarf with Suede Fringe and Tab-Button Gloves, $14.99/$12.49, Target

Madden Girl Trixie Boot, Journey’s Shoes, $60

Tab-Sleeve Trench Coat in Bandolier Brown, Old Navy, $42

you don’t have to wear boots with this look. Feminine pumps with buckle details are work appropriate while remaining true to the military style. Women’s Kimmie Mary Jane Pump, Payless, $24.99

Life & Style : Fall 2012 53

style For men, an old favorite is still in style

Not only does this stylish watch feature luminous hands and a day/date window, it is made with an Eco-Drive battery that runs on any kind of light. That means you’ll never have to deal with changing the battery again.

Renowned for his effortlessly cool apparel, Ralph Lauren has done it again. Cuffed and collared though it may be, this shirt is remarkably casual and just a bit rugged around the edges. Denim & Supply Ralph Lauren Military Shirt, Dillard’s, $65

Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive MilitaryGreen Watch, JC Penney, $110 Outerwear is one part of a man’s wardrobe where the military look never goes out of style. Lots of pockets are key, epaulet details make it complete. BKE Putnam Hall Coat, The Buckle, $120

Armani Exchange took aviator sunglasses to new heights with this modern design featuring metal frames and smoke lenses. Dillard’s, $65

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Life & Style : Fall 2012 55

apps Whether at home or on the go, taking a proactive approach to personal health and fitness can be intimidating. With so many nutritional factors to consider when buying or ordering food, on-the-fly decisions can be daunting. Keeping track of caloric intake and exercise routines, can also be a challenge. But a wide variety of applications for smartphones and electronic devices help individuals take the power into their own hands. While these electronics and applications can’t change personal habits, they can act as motivators, sources of information and helpful tools on the journey to health and well being. Here are some handy health and fitness apps to consider: All-In Pedometer: This app uses a device’s GPS function, as well as personal settings for height and weight, to count steps, log distances, speed and calories burned as you run or walk your daily routine. Alarms can be set to activate once you’ve reached a goal distance, time or total of calories burned. It also includes a music player to create a soundtrack for your exercise habits. Fast Food Nutrition: When dining at a fast food restaurant, this app allows you access to menus and the nutritional information associated with each item. More than 300 restaurants and 50,000 menu items are included. Fooducate: Created by dieticians and concerned parents, this application allows users to access a variety of helpful information by simply scanning a product’s barcode. It will provide nutritional highlights, both good and bad, of the product you’re purchasing. It also allows users to compare products and select the healthier alternatives, as well as dig deeper than the manufacturer’s label. ITriage: Two emergency room doctors created this app, which allows users to search symptoms, find nearby medical facilities and directions, learn wait times at select emergency rooms and even pre-register for visits with select doctors. Personal information, such as medicine lists and family history, can also be stored in the app for easy access.

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It’s easy to track

health and fitness MyFitnessPal: This free app counts calories and helps users track exercise. It can search calorie information on more than a million different foods and will also follow your progress at cardio and strength-training. When you start the app, you set your weight, target and other physical information, and the app will help customize your diet plans. P90X: This app complements the popular workout routine and helps the user by planning daily exercise routines and tracking progress to find out where you’re improving or where you need to push yourself to meet goals. Customized progress reports will also be provided on a regular basis. RunKeeper: Users can track their routes, measure their distance and analyze their relevant stats with this app. Stats and coaching are provided through headphones with built in audio cues, and sensors monitor heart rate. Whether running, hiking, biking or even skiing, this program will keep you updated on your workout and can be integrated with a number of other applications. WebMD: One of the Internet’s leading health resources finds its way into your hands with this app. WebMD operates just like the full website, providing access to information and decision-support tools like the Symptom Checker, First Aid resources and local health listings. — Adam Testa

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Life & Style : Fall 2012 57

Fresh start story by Adam Testa To Saluki fans, Barry Hinson used to be the villain. As head basketball coach at Southwest Missouri State University — now Missouri State University — he led the Bears against the Salukis for nine seasons, exchanging wins and losses along the way. In 2008, he was terminated from his head coaching position. The pain of the ending of his run at Missouri State continued to resonate with Hinson every day. He transitioned to the University of Kansas, where he eventually became director of basketball operations. But while at Kansas, he longed for another shot at a head coaching position.

58 Life & Style : Fall 2012

New Salukis head basketball coach Barry Hinson brings experience, respect and passion to the game

THE SOUTHERN FILE PHOTO

profile

Coach Barry Hinson smiles at the crowd of Salukis fans in attendance during his introduction as the new men’s basketball head coach in March at SIU Arena.

“It burns in you, and you obviously want a second chance,” he said. “I had second chances, but they weren’t the right second chances.” When Southern Illinois University Athletic Director Mario Moccia and an interviewing committee offered Hinson a chance at replacing Chris Lowery as the Salukis head coach, he had to take the opportunity. He knew the SIU program well; he knew its reputation, as well as its potential. In March, he was offered that position. But, that didn’t mean all his past sins were forgiven. Walking through the aisles of local grocery stores, Hinson still finds himself greeted by fans, many of whom recall his days leading the Bears.

“I’ve had little old ladies tell me, ‘I used to hate you,’” he said. “It makes for a funny story now, but I just believe I’m meant to be the head coach here at Southern Illinois, and I’m extremely happy about it.” Here is what else Hinson had to say about his new role and his new home in Southern Illinois: Can you tell us a little about your background and what brought you to SIU? I had a familiarity with the school because I was a coach in the Missouri Valley Conference for nine years at Southwest Missouri, now known as Missouri State. I had more than several opportunities through the nine years to

‘I can’t guarantee wins. I can’t guarantee victories. But what I can guarantee is that every single day we come into this office as a staff, we have a plan to turn this program around and have success.’ — Barry Hinson

You left a high-profile position at Kansas, a national powerhouse in men’s basketball. Was it a tough decision to leave to come to SIU? I think it’s a tough decision whenever you leave to go anywhere. I don’t think that ever changes. If you are emotionally involved in your job, I think there are always hard decisions to make. When you pick up and move, no matter the length of residency, there’s always an emotional charge to it. The emotional charge to me was because I was so close with Bill Self, head coach at Kansas. We were so close to him and his family, and we were so close to the staff members. We had become part of an athletic team there at Kansas over the course of four years, which we got very comfortable with. The decision was not tough; the decision was easy. The move was emotional. I think that’s where you kind of have to divide it up. It’s always emotional, if you put everything into a job or where you live. Are you looking forward to being back in a head coaching role? When I was at Kansas, I had several opportunities to become a head coach, but they just weren’t the right places for me. And, those were easy decisions, as well, because they weren’t in areas or at schools conducive for me to have success or for me to be happy. When this job came available, I saw all of that. I saw it as conducive for success; I saw it as

Paul Newton

compete at Southern Illinois, and when you compete against someone else, and you’re from afar, you obviously form an opinion. The opinion I formed is that Southern Illinois is obviously a very good educational institution, but, at the same time, it also had a traditionally rich athletic program, which included men’s basketball.

SIU basketball coach Barry Hinson talks to a player during practice at the SIU Rec Center.

conducive for my wife and I to be happy. We really enjoy this area. We were both raised in small schools, and we’re both from areas where agriculture is huge. We come from blue-collar backgrounds, and we felt we fit this neighborhood and this area really well. You’re obviously familiar with SIU and the Missouri Valley Conference. What advantages does that lend you as a coach, and how does it feel to be back in the MVC? In the nine years I was part of the Valley, I never once hid my emotions regarding the Valley. I was always pro-Missouri Valley Conference; I

always stood up for the league. I was the dean of the league for a short period of time. I really felt I was a great advocate for the Missouri Valley Conference in the nine years I put into it, so when I had a chance to come to Carbondale as head coach and be part of the Valley, that was part of that easy decision. I told the interviewing committee, I want to come home, and when I said that, I really meant it. And home for me meant being part of the Missouri Valley Conference and the familiarity with all the schools we compete against.

Life & Style : Fall 2012 59

What should fans expect from the team this season and from you as a coach? My expectations never change — never. When I’ve been out and about, everyone asks me: What are your expectations for next year’s team? I just tell them, I hope you didn’t hire a head coach that would have any philosophy other than this, and I don’t know any coach who has a different philosophy. We prepare to win every game, every game. I don’t think you ever wake up and go into work at your job, or you go to school, or you go to take a test where you say, today I want to be average, or today I want to be second place. We are going to prepare to win every game that we play. Now, I’m also a realist, and what that means to me is that we just attack every game, every day in the very best way we can to improve our program. It’s well documented that we have major challenges before us; we’ve got major issues in front of us. But, at the same time, I always go back and look at the history of a program. When you look back in the past and you see the roller coaster of events that a school or a university has been through, and you see how they’ve dug out of those holes, and they become the top of the conference, the best of the programs, it bodes well for itself. It’s always on track for success. It just takes a little bit of effort, a little bit of focus, and, hopefully, we can provide that. In recent years, fan support has dwindled. What message do you want to send to fans who have veered away? It’s pretty simple. Everybody wants to point the finger and blame somebody or blame the past. I don’t know what happened in the past. I don’t have a clue. I wasn’t here. I wasn’t part of it. All I know is what I could take care of from the moment I landed here. Words are easy. I’ve told people: If you want to judge this program, judge our program by our kids and how they do in the classroom, how hard they play on the floor, how successful they are outside the classroom. If we’re not doing our job four, five, six years down the road, and they’re not coming, I understand that. If you look at my resumé and how I view academics, how I view our kids’ behavior in the community and outside the Arena, we’ve had success. Does that mean we’re going to be perfect? Does that

60 Life & Style : Fall 2012

Paul Newton

profile

Hinson, who leads the team in a practice at the Rec, will be sure to make time for a favorite of his and of other Southern Illinoisans: Barbecue. ‘I love to cook it, and I love to eat it,’ he says.

mean we’re going to have perfect records? Absolutely not. I can’t guarantee wins. I can’t guarantee victories. But, what I can guarantee is that every single day we come into this office as a staff, we have a plan to turn this program around and have success. What about Southern Illinois appealed to you outside the university environment? Have you had a chance to get out and see much of the region yet? That’s one thing I have had the chance to do. I’ve done at least half a dozen caravans throughout the state of Illinois, and I have been to every small community, whether it be with the caravan or a social activity. I feel like FDR in his first 100 days. I’ve been all over the country, whether it be recruiting or just meeting people. I have a philosophy that you go to lunch every day, and you try to become a part of the community. My wife wasn’t here for such a long time, and it was just me, so I’d pick a new place to eat every day, whether it was in Carbondale, Murphysboro, Herrin, Harrisburg, Mount Vernon,

Cobden, Anna, Marion, Carterville. I would pick a place every day that I could at least go eat and maybe meet somebody new. I still do it today with my staff. I feel like I’m made for this area. I’ve been on a tractor. I’ve lived on a farm. I’ve worked on a ranch. I get it. I come from a blue-collar background and so does my wife. We feel extremely comfortable here. What is your family life like? What are some of your hobbies and interests when you’re not on the court? One thing about being a basketball coach, especially with today’s world and the Internet, you can’t do anything without people knowing about it. It’s been well advertised that I love barbecue. I love to cook it, and I love to eat it. I love to play golf. I haven’t been much of a hunter or a fisherman because time doesn’t really allow for that as a basketball coach. But, obviously, in this area, that may change a little bit. I just enjoy being outside. I like working in the yard; that’s kind of my therapy. I have two daughters. One graduated from Missouri State University and runs a

children’s clothing store in Springfield, and my older daughter lives in Valle, Colo. She and her husband gave my wife and I our first grandchild a year ago Feb. 14. We have a Valentine’s Day grandson. While you were in Kansas, you did a local radio segment called “Basketball and Barbecue.” Have you had a chance to sample any of Southern Illinois’ selection? I’ve had a chance to sample all of it, I promise you that. I’ve been everywhere. I’ve been to every 17th Street Bar & Grill location, whether just going to lunch or going to a caravan event. I’ve been to Grumpy’s. I’ve been to Great Boars of Fire. I enjoy going to the Midland Inn because it’s close to where my house is going to be. My wife and I have spent quite a bit of time out there. I’ve also discovered Giant City Lodge. I like going out there just because of the history of the lodge and their history with Southern Illinois basketball.

I’m pretty simple. If I find out people support our program, that’s where I like to go. If I purchase something for my house, if I go eat somewhere, if I need some help with something, I like to hire those people who support Saluki basketball or Saluki Athletics. It’s a big deal to me. What are your long-terms goals, as both a coach and an individual? When you make goals, you have to keep them simple, and you have to have a road map of what you want to do. I think the biggest thing is that, first and foremost, I want to go to heaven. Second, I want to be the best possible father and husband. And, third, when my feet hit the ground every day, I want to do the very best at whatever I’m going to try to do that day. That’s kind of been my philosophy of life. I’d like to say that I’ve met all three categories perfectly, but that’s the great part of goals and the great part of life — I haven’t. I’ve come up short on all three. You just try to keep getting better and better every day.

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where we live

Deck Anna home stands as a symbol of creativity, love and family story by Joe Szynkowski photography by Keith Cotton

on and Marian Michel still think of their Anna deck house fondly. Why wouldn’t they? They spent 30 years within its sturdy walls — building a loving marriage, raising a tight-knit family and running profitable businesses. Now residents of Dallas, the Michels have been married for more than 50 years, and they are closer to their son, daughter and three grandchildren. Their new two-story, Mediterraneanstyle home is bigger and a splendid beauty all its own. But, it is no deck house. “We do miss its elegant and simple beauty, as well as the terrific wooded site,” Don said, about a month after the couple moved into its custom-built home in Dallas. It wasn’t easy to leave behind the stunning Anna home, which is now on the market. One walk up the Pennsylvania Bluestone steps will show you why.

62 Life & Style : Fall 2012

A Pennsylvania Bluestone path leads us to the front entrance of the Michel home in Anna. The rear of the home is just as inviting. windows, windows and more windows make the most of the beautiful 40-acre, wooded site on which the home is built. Natural stone hearths provide warmth and beauty in the living room and in another sitting room/office.

Life & Style : Fall 2012 63

where we live The home is superbly built and perfectly placed upon 40 wooded acres of pure serenity. Mahogany — used throughout the house for the rough-sawn tongue-and-groove walls, millwork, trim and stairways — gives the home its character. “At the time we built the home, they were clear-cutting mahogany in the Philippines,” Don said. “They eventually quit doing that and stopped exporting it. You can’t even get this anymore.” The deck house description comes from the decking used for the home’s ceiling. The tongue-in-groove laminated cedar matches perfectly with the variety of wall colors and textures throughout the home’s interior. “It is strong, durable construction, and it looks great,” Don said. The home was pre-built in a factory in Acton, Mass., delivered on 18-wheelers and assembled on-site by local union carpenters and tradesmen from October 1980 to May 1981.

64 Life & Style : Fall 2012

The Michels (pronounced Mitchells) settled on the design when they checked out a model deck house in McKendree. “We loved it when we walked in,” Don said. “It was the unique architecture and premium quality materials that caught our attention.”

The couple

Don and Marian met while attending Milliken University as music majors. Marian was raised in Olmsted, and Don grew up in Taylorville. Don served in the U.S. Navy before landing a job as chief engineer of WRHA radio station in Anna. “That was a wonderful time in radio,” Marian said. “It was the last golden age.” Don worked in the radio industry for about 12 years and interviewed many famous guests, including Walter Cronkite. He organized and saved all of his interviews and recently donated them to the Southern Illinois University

library, which placed them in a special collection in its research center. After Don’s radio career, the Michels’ initiated some unique and successful family business ventures. For 10 years, they produced kitty litter and grease absorbent. After selling that business, they traveled to Europe in search of products to import to the United States. “We ended up in Russia and started importing fine porcelain tea cups and other objects,” Don said. “We had them air-freighted to St. Louis, brought them down here, repackaged them and sent them to Dallas.” The couple applied the same creativity that drove their profitable businesses to the process of building their one-of-akind deck home.

The build

The Michels modified the model house they fell in love with by adding another four feet and shifting the

Mahogany graces nearly every part of the home. Because of ecological and conservation issues, the wood, which came from the Philippines, is no longer being harvested. The previous wood is found in roughsawn, tongue-andgroove walls, in the millwork, trim and stairwells. The Michels considered the environment in many ways in the home. The home’s kitchen windows face south with wide eaves to maximize solar energy in the window, while keeping the area shaded and cooler in summer.

Life & Style : Fall 2012 65

where we live

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The ‘deck house’ description comes from the decking used for the home’s ceiling, a stylish tongue-in-groove Cedar laminate.

Life & Style : Fall 2012 67

where we live

The master bed and bath are a stylish mix of texture: woven fabrics, natural stone and wood.

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upper-story windows to mimic a ski lodge. Their main modification, though, was the home’s double-wall construction. The two two-by-four walls — each separately insulated — are divided by one-inch space for plumbing and wiring. “I read about the double-wall construction somewhere and couldn’t be talked out of it,� Don said. “The builders tried, but I knew that it would be cost-effective in the end because of the energy it would save.� Don and Marian took pride in their forward-thinking approach to an environmentally friendly build. They installed garage-roof plumbing for solar panels, although the panels were never added because of the affordability of natural gas. The home also comes equipped with a 120-gallon heated water tank, so that solar power may be used to heat both the hot water and the building through circulation of the solar-heated water through the air handlers. The home’s large kitchen windows face the south with wide eaves to maximize the solar energy in the winter, while keeping the kitchen shaded in the summer. All of the home’s windows are double-glazed, and the downstairs recreation room and two bedrooms are floored with natural bamboo. “It is just something we felt strongly about, even then,� Don said. “There seems to be so much wasted energy that you look for ways to recycle some of it.�

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The views

Nestled among rolling hills and tall trees, the deck house is located just inside city limits. Its two decks — rebuilt in 2011 with the original 4’ by 6’ Western Cedar planks — feature awe-inspiring views of the natural surroundings. The 100-foot difference in elevation from the home to the bottom of the woods sets the scene for a remarkable view. “The woods are just so beautiful,� Marian said. “We have so much privacy that we never draw the

/HW RXU WHDP SURYH LW &$5( ZZZ %X\6,KRPHV FRP Life & Style : Fall 2012 69

where we live

The home’s two decks, rebuilt in 2011 with the original western Cedar planks, are the gorgeous, natural link between the home’s interior and exterior.

70 Life & Style : Fall 2012

drapes. They’re really just in some rooms for decorations.” A unique technological feature complements the ruggedness of the home’s surroundings in the form of the GE low-voltage outdoor flood-light system, which can be controlled in the kitchen and bedrooms. The system provides a spectacular illumination of the wildlife and vegetation that envelops the home. The home’s magnificent views aren’t limited to the outdoors. Stainless-steel appliances, including a self-cleaning oven, a dishwasher and refrigerator/freezer, fit nicely into the open floor plan of the expansive kitchen. The large window above the sink allows the sunlight to bounce off the shimmering appliances, which complement the new granite countertops, installed by FWS of Carbondale. The customized cabinets of mahogany, with Corian tops and backsplashes, put the finishing touches on an open, updated kitchen that offers the perfect venue for enjoying a quiet, picturesque meal or

hosting a social gathering in front of the large, flat-screen TV.

The love

As Don and Marian enjoy their new life in Dallas, closer to family, they think back lovingly of their time on their 40-acre wonderland. “That site alone would cost several million dollars where we now live,” Don said. “So, we are having nice landscaping done. It won’t be like sitting out front of our deck house in the cool evenings and watching the cardinals get their last bites out of the bird feeder.” The Michels are forging new experiences now — new favorite pieces of their life in the Lone Star State. Their son lives a block away, and their daughter lives in nearby Fort Worth. Family is the focus of the Michels during their first new steps in Dallas, just as it was for decades in Anna. “Raising a family here was my favorite part about the house,” Marian said. “A lot of people were moving into Anna back

The Michels love nature, and this little spot on the grounds is perfect for relaxing and sharing the space with wildlife.

then, starting businesses and families. It was an exciting time and a great community to raise children.”

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1.800.827.7020 Life & Style : Fall 2012 71

sports

Home-field Local teams are using technological approaches to train their athletes, create wins

Right: Intern Matt Bertsch uses a laser timing device to time SIU senior defensive end Eze Obiora at the SIU athletic training facilities in Lingle Hall.

72 Life & Style : Fall 2012

Technical Director Amber Polczynski picks the video shots sent to video boards and the live web stream at Rent One Park in Marion. Inset: A sound board control surface.

STEPHEN RICkERL

From gear to game day, technology has absolutely inundated the sporting world. The swings of baseball players are measured by motionanalysis systems. Football players are hooked up to heart-rate monitors to help coaches understand how much effort they can get out of their players. Swimmers’ gear perpetually gets lighter and more aerodynamic. So how do coaches, players and even fans keep up with the latest and greatest? Clete McLeod, strength and conditioning coach at Southern Illinois University, says sometimes less is more. “The technology and machines give you all of the information you would ever need to have, but you’re still a coach,” he said. “You’re still supposed to be a teacher. You can’t rely too much on the technology.” McLeod, a former infantryman in the U.S. Army, led the strength and conditioning for Oregon State’s football team before returning to his alma mater in November. He may be old-school, but he still works to find the perfect balance between technology and tenacity. “I always have my iPad ready to go,” McLeod said. “Kids today are such visual learners, and, sometimes, if I’m not getting my message across, I will pull up a high-quality video on the iPad. It helps to bring the point home.” SIU and McLeod also utilize a Brower Timing System, a wireless timing device that enables them to measure the speed of their athletes. “The laser timing is easier and more accurate than keeping track by hand, and it works because the kids can see their times,” McLeod said. “If you give them that carrot, they know they are on the spot, and they will run a little faster.”

JOEL HAwkSLEy

story by Joe Szynkowski

The Southern Illinois Miners baseball team has perfected the art of leveraging technology to draw more fans to the ballpark. The Marion team has led the Frontier League in attendance in four of its five seasons since 2007. A big part of the reason is the video production that keeps fans entertained and coming back for more. “We believe that our videos and sound effects play a big part in the environment at the ballpark and how much fun the fans have while at Rent One Park,” said Jeff Holtke, director of production at Rent One Park. The videos Holtke and his staff produce with their five-camera shoot are mainly for promotional and advertising purposes, but they do create some videos for team use. Miners fans have grown to love the ingame videos that feature their favorite players dancing to popular songs, as well as the make-some-noise prompts recorded by celebrities, such as Ric Flair, Randy Couture and Ice-T. “Like I say to most people, my job is to entertain the fans between the pitches,” Holtke said. And, an entertained crowd can provide that little bit of extra spark a team needs to overwhelm its visitors.

Joel Hawksley

Miners use technology to keep fans happy

Camera operator Tony Smith covers a pre-game ceremony at Rent One Park.

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Owner: David Hays

Aircraft: Cessna Citation Ultra, private passenger jet Passion: I received my pilot license right after graduating from high school. Senior year, I spotted a “cut away” cockpit of an old Cessna 150 in a classroom and I was drawn to it like a magnet! One of the science teachers was a pilot/ CFI and offered a ground school class I immediately enrolled in. It was truly love at first sight! That love affair has lasted over 35 years and 6,000 hours of flight. I have been fortunate enough to own four different aircraft, from a Beechcraft 58 Baron, to a King Air C-90, a King Air B20, and now the Citation Ultra. All of these have been vital tools in building the “footprint” of Cook Portable Warehouses. I always looked forward to “hitting the road” and creating one more place to fly to! Why Williams & Associates? Working with Mary Jo McCurdy and Williams & Associates has been instrumental in managing our flight department. She works with us to swiftly get pilots approved, select a training center, and insure we get the very best value to satisfy all of our aviation insurance needs. We could not be happier!

Business: Kokopelli Golf Course Passion: My passion is the pursuit. I must love a good challenge to be in the restaurant, banquet, and golf course business. I love dealing with people, and making satisfied customers. I believe that you must have passion for what you do to be able to do it day in, day out for years. Why Williams & Associates? Mary Jo McCurdy. I almost feel as though I have extra employees with Mary Jo and Debra. They take the time to shop for the best deal with the best companies at renewal time, instead of simply sending you the renewal. They are diligent about making sure we have the coverage we need, and also that we don’t have any unnecessary coverage. I love that!

We treat our customers as we want to be treated Providing clients the freedom to pursue their passion is what Mary Jo McCurdy of Williams & Associates is passionate about herself. A love of sales and marketing led McCurdy to begin her career in insurance in the late 1980s when she joined Williams & Associates. It can be a challenge. “On days when a bad storm or natural disaster occurs, I sometimes wonder why on earth I am here. Then something will happen that is so gratifying or unexpected, like receiving a card, note or phone call from a customer expressing appreciation, and I’m reminded...this is where I’m supposed to be.” Williams & Associates has been providing insurance solutions since 1945. “An agency can’t survive that long unless it is doing something right,” she said. “I remind my customers that while I am an agent, I am also a consumer needing and buying the very same products. We treat our customers as we want to be treated.”

A key to success is the ability to listen. “I listen closely to my clients’ needs and investigate all options. Being independent affords us the opportunity to shop literally dozens of markets. This provides the best coverage at the most economic price point. I’m constantly learning from Steve and Jim Williams, the agency owners, and other agents as well,” McCurdy said. “I ask questions. And, I’m not afraid to say I don’t understand something. Knowledge is golden in this industry, and you obtain it through your own volition, blood, sweat and tears.” Success comes back to having a passion for what you do, according to McCurdy. “If you are in something just for the money, get out! That is the wrong reason. You have to believe in what you are doing. If you are passionate about what you do - trust me - success will follow.”

“Insurance Professionals Since 1945”

1-800-987-1987 www.williamsquote.com

Life & Style : Fall 2012 75

getaways

Branson Welcome to

Even if you think you know this fabulous city, it’s time to explore it again

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story and photography by Adam Testa

The 700-seat Showboat Branson Belle hosts two different shows. Guests enjoy a variety on food and entertainment while traveling on scenic Table Rock Lake.

ifty years ago, if a traveler found himself driving down Highway 76 through southwestern Missouri, he was almost certainly headed somewhere else. The two-lane stretch of asphalt road carried vehicles through the rolling hills and forests of the Ozarks, but there wasn’t much to stop and see. A few years before, the wife of a relocated Chicago entrepreneur began establishing an authentic 1880s Ozark village near Marvel Cave, one of the region’s natural gems and a popular travel destination. The birth of Silver Dollar City and expanded commercialization of Marvel Cage drew outsiders to the area, but they still weren’t coming in droves. Each year, though, word continued to spread and visitors to the region were introduced to the local flavor, most notably the downhome music being played by acts like the Baldknobbers and the Presley family. These bands played in whatever venue they could find — primarily makeshift theaters inside of caves. But, as time went on and more people were attracted to

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southwest Missouri, the performers outgrew their underground venues. In 1967, Lloyd Presley purchased a plot of land on the vacant Highway 76 and constructed a theater. But, little did he know that he also was building the foundation of a musical legacy that would continue to blossom after nearly five decades. Only a few years later, the Baldknobbers built their own theater across the street, and from there, the momentum continued. Today, the stretch of land on Highway 76, running through the small town of Branson, Mo., has become known by many names, including the live entertainment capital of the world.

Rooted in tradition

Steve Presley still has vivid memories of that day in 1967 when he, his parents and his siblings took to that stage for the first time. He was just a 10-year-old child with no clear vision of how much influence that stage would have on his life. “I’m very fortunate,” he said. “It was a lot of fun. Not a lot of kids got to grow up on Highway 76.” And, growing up there was exactly what Presley did. He matured both as a man

and a musician, learning lessons of life and lyrics. His family became legends in the annals of Branson history, and that’s a legacy he and his relatives continue to pass on to other generations. Today, four generations of the Presley family share the stage nightly, entertaining thousands of visitors each year. The old theater has come and gone, making way for the group’s elaborate new home. But, at the roots, the Presleys’ Country Jamboree maintains its original character and charm. “The core elements of the show are really still the same,” Presley said. “It’s built around a family with country, gospel and patriotic music and a lot of comedy wrapped up in it.” In some ways, those elements make up the core of not just the Presleys’ show, but Branson as a whole. Talk with nearly anyone in town, whether a performer, a waitress at one of the many local restaurants or even just a lifelong resident, and three themes are nearly constant when explaining what makes Branson a special place: family, faith and patriotic pride. Those values have been passed down for generations in the families that have almost transcended residential status to

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The Presleys’ Country Jubilee theater has evolved since the original venue opened on site in 1967, the first theater on Branson’s famous ‘Strip.’

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Janice Martin, the world’s only violin-playing aerialist, performs daily on the Showboat Branson Belle. Her act combines music and aerobatics in a stunning display of skill.

Child actors take the spotlight in ‘The Legend of kung Fu,’ a Chinese theatrical performance highlighted by authentic martial arts performances, which plays at the white House Theater.

become institutions of Branson, families like the Presleys and the Mabes of Baldknobbers fame. Raising a family in that environment and sharing the experiences with them becomes a source of pride for many. “That’s the special part for us,” said Presley, whose wife Reanne serves as mayor of Branson. “It started with our parents and us being involved. Now they’ve all grown up in it.”

More than meets the eye

While many of Branson’s earliest acts remain popular, the city’s entertainment landscape has diversified greatly through the years. Many view a December 1991 segment on “60 Minutes” as a turning point in Branson’s history and success. That television interview put more eyes on the city and truly introduced the small Missouri town to the world. But, while the attention for the city was a tremendous asset for tourism, it also created a stereotype perpetuated to this day. To many, Branson remains a destination solely for country music lovers and older audiences. In today’s Branson environment, however, people are fighting hard to

combat those misperceptions. With regular shows featuring former “American Idol” contestants, world-class magicians and illusionists, world-class theater productions from across the globe and performers geared toward younger audiences, the diversity of Branson’s entertainment offering is at a peak. “There are so many musical choices here, from jazz to modern to Irish music. You can have something different every night,” said Julee Cooke, project manager for Branson/ Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. “Give it a try. Remove the blinders. It really is a very cool place with a lot of entertainment options that have nothing to do with your perceptions of years past.” With more than 50 theaters in the city limits — many of them along the once vacant Highway 76, known as the “Strip” — there’s certainly something for everyone on any given night of the week. Acts like the Presleys and the Baldknobbers continue to provide those classic Branson shows, while special attractions like “The Legend of Kung Fu” provide something completely new. That show, in particular, is something special for Branson visitors, as it has been

The ShowMen are the featured act upon the Showboat Branson Belle, singing a capella songs from yesteryear and today.

presented across the globe, but rarely in the United States. The show uses colorful scenery, awe-striking acrobats and aerobatics and beautiful music to tell the story of a young man’s journey to master the artform of kung fu and control internal desires.

‘The kind of show this town needed’

Six years ago, a sextet of Knudsen brothers visited Branson for a special showcase series. The siblings, performing under the banner SIX, had taken their act all over the country, most recently settling down in Las Vegas for more than three years. Raised in a musical family, the brothers learned the art of a capella, and they’ve since perfected the vocal sounds of more than just lyrics, but also instrumentation and sound effects. The playlist for their set features everything from Elvis, Frankie Valle and Tom Jones to LMFAO, MC Hammer and Journey. From that first visit, SIX captivated audiences in Branson. “The feedback was that we were the kind of show this town needed,” Kevin Knudsen

Life & Style : Fall 2012 77

getaways

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The Knudsen brothers have performed under the name ‘SIX’ in Branson for six years. Their a capella and comedy routines appeal to an audience of all ages.

The Presleys’ Country Jubilee was one of the original acts in Branson, and the legacy and stage have been passed down through generations of the Presley family.

Silver Dollar City hosts a number of live musical performances throughout the year, including the ‘Southern Gospel Picnic.’

said. “At the time, there was nothing like this here.” The Knudsens have been happy to plant their roots in Branson. They believe in the core values of the town and find it to be a great place to raise their families — there are 19 children between the six of them. They’ve also developed a solid working relationship with country music legend Mickey Gilley, who owns the theater where they perform six days a week. And, the fun doesn’t stop when the show ends. Most nights, at least a few of the brothers will make their way next door to Gilley’s Texas Café to meet with fans. “We’re just down-to-earth regular guys,” Barry Knudsen said. The Knudsens know that a capella is nothing new. Artists have been plying the artistic trade for decades, but, as SIX, the brothers work hard to produce an entertaining show different from what audiences see elsewhere. They work in comedy and family stories like only bloodbrothers can, and the masterful command of their voices take listeners on a roller coaster of emotion. At the end of the day, their philosophy is simple.

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“You just have to get out there and let the audience have fun,” Kevin Knudsen said. “That’s why they come here.”

Endless entertainment

Hundreds of musicians and entertainers take to the stage each month in Branson. Many of them perform on the worldfamous stages of the theaters on Highway 76, but others showcase their skills for audiences in other venues. Since 1994, the Showboat Branson Belle has offered riders a unique perspective on the beautiful Table Rock Lake, just outside of Branson. The 700-passenger vessel offers three daily cruises, each complete with a first-class meal and entertainment. This year’s cruises feature fiddler Dean Church and master pianist Julie McClarey, the ShowBelles female quartet, live band the Castaways and comedian David Hirschi on the lunch excursions and Janice Martin, the world’s only violin-playing aerialist; male vocal group the ShowMen and magician and comedian Christopher James on the dinner cruises. From Aug. 26 to 31, the Showboat Branson Belle will also feature a series of

Elements of ‘The Legend of Kung Fu’ from the vibrant costumes to the awe-striking movements of the performers make the show a special — and rare — treat for American audiences.

special “Cruisin’ with the Classics” gospel music trips on noon cruises. These shows will feature acts such as the Dixie Melody Boys, Gold City, The Stamps Quartet, The Kingsmen, The Florida Boys and the Blackwood Brothers Quartet. Each cruise also features a three-course meal from the steamboat’s own Chef Larry, including slow-simmered beef roast and honey-Dijon glazed chicken, as well as the chef’s signature Golden Brittle LemonBerry Torte dessert. But, there’s music and entertainment to be discovered back on mainland, as well. Pop into any of the local restaurants on Highway 76, downtown or at Branson Landing, and there are hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, several of them unknown to even longtime Branson residents. Take, for instance, the Hard Luck Diner. Near the Presleys’ theater on the “Strip,” this restaurant doesn’t really stand out from its Grand Village surroundings, but step inside and it’s an experience to behold. The decorum and atmosphere is about what one would expect from a family diner, but it doesn’t take long for the uniqueness of the venue to unveil itself.

Southern Illinois’ Trusted Practice for Cosmetic Dentistry One by one, the waiters and waitresses, and even the kitchen staff, take the microphone, serenading customers with their own vocal skills. But, they’re not all hard-on-their-luck singers, as the restaurant’s name seems to imply. Several of the restaurant’s employees have toured, recorded albums and even appeared on shows like “American Idol.� “It’s a real personal thing with the people,� said Bernie Parquette, a 17-year veteran of the diner, who has also performed in eight of Branson’s theaters. “If a song we do touches them, it’s amazing. That’s why we do it.�

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Continued tradition

Nearly 50 years have passed since Lloyd Presley opened a small theater on a vacant stretch of Highway 76, and the city of Branson has transformed itself from just a small Missouri town into a destination for people of all ages and backgrounds. This year has been a special one for the city, as it marks the 100th anniversary of its incorporation. Looking back on the past and looking to the future, local leaders, performers and residents all find something special. “This little town has a lot to celebrate,� Cooke said. “For a town of just over 9,000 people, it’s amazing we have over 8 million visitors annually, which speaks volumes about what we’ve been able to do.� Through the years, the face of Branson has changed many times. In some ways, the perceptions of the past continue to haunt the ever-changing city, but more people are becoming aware of the majestic wonders that can be found in the rolling hills of the southwestern Missouri Ozarks. With each passing year, new acts and attractions come into town, some joining the established families for the long haul, others just stopping by for a season or two. But, the fact is that the city continues to diversify itself, and that can only be for the best. But, of course, there’s also the need to maintain those elements at the heart of Branson: family, faith and patriotism. “If we stick to our core values and what we started with, we really feel it’s a good path to continue to thrive,� Steve Presley said.

Dr. Christopher H. Hughes

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Life & Style : Fall 2012 79

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getaways

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Guests can tour Marvel Cave during the day or take a night-time lantern-guided tour.

Marvel Cave was Branson’s original aatraction, opened to the public in the late 1880s. Visitors to Silver Dollar City can still explore the depths of the caverns.

The Hollywood wax Museum is home to replicas of many of television and film’s biggest stars, like Tom Hanks in ‘Forrest Gump.’

attractions

Silver Dollar City features more than 30 rides and attractions, including the multilooping roller coaster wildfire.

Branson

story by Adam Testa

While an expanded and newer Silver Dollar City is still a major draw, there’s more to Branson and the region to be discovered While it’s been fewer than 50 years since the Presley family first drew visitors to the Branson “Strip,” outsiders have been drawn for more than a century to the area that would become southwestern Missouri. The Osage tribe of Native Americans was the first to discover the vast underground caverns of Marvel Cave, but it wouldn’t be until the 1880s that adventurers would be brave enough to lower themselves into the depths of the earth. From there, the cave became a popular destination for miners, who had mistakenly discovered an abundance of guano while searching for the marble they originally believed to be in the cave.

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In 1894, Canadian mining expert William Henry Lynch read of the cave, purchased it sight-unseen, traveled to the Ozarks and opened the cave for public tours. Tours continued at the site through the years, and the publication of minister Harold Bell Wright’s “The Shepherd of the Hills” sparked the true development of the tourism industry in the region, as people flocked to see the inspirations for his stories. In 1946, visiting Chicagoans Hugo and Mary Herschend vacationed in the area and fell in love with Marvel Cave. The Lynches, the second generation to maintain the land, offered the Herschends a 99-year lease on the property. They accepted.

The summer of 1950 saw 8,000 visitors come to explore the cave. With the influx of visitors, the family began exploring ways to improve and expand the experience. The answer came in 1955, unfortunately after Hugo Herschend’s death. Five years were spent constructing the foundation of an authentic 1880s village, a place where craftsmen and women could ply their trade, show off their wares and host demonstrations for the public. The site, called Silver Dollar City, officially opened its doors in 1960. More than 125,000 people came to visit that first year. Today, more than five decades later, Silver Dollar City has grown into a fullscale theme park attracting more than

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Silver Dollar City has rides for people of all ages. This floating river ride allows kids and adults to shoot water cannons at targets along the course, as well as guests walking nearby.

2 million visitors annually. The park maintains much of its original charm with dozens of master craftsmen and their apprentices running on-site shops. But, there’s so much more to today’s Silver Dollar City. The 100-acre park features more than 30 rides, including five roller coasters; 17 restaurants; more than 40 concert and entertainment performances each day; and a variety of specialty gift shops and stores. All of that is on top of the original attraction, Marvel Cave. Guests can still embark on the journey that made the park famous in the first place, as they can take a one-hour tour to the depths of the cave. Be cautious, though; the half-mile journey involves more than 700 stairs and no access to a restroom. “We have the big rides that create these thrills, but we’ve also got incredible shows that bring stars here, and our demonstrating craftsmen,” said senior publicist Martha Hoy Bohner. “There’s so much to see and do. It’s definitely not just a ride park. There’s certainly something for everyone.” And for those looking to stay in town, but enjoy some late summer fun, Silver Dollar City also operates White Water,

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The train at Silver Dollar City was one of the first attractions added to the site. Of course, the steam engine has been updated in the five decades since.

Instructors at the Culinary and Craft School at Silver Dollar City offer classes, adding another dimension of the theme park’s appeal.

a 13-acre water park right on the “Strip” in Branson. The park features nearly 7,000 feet of slides and more than dozen rides and attractions. Rides range from mild to wild, as guests can enjoy a relaxing trip on the Aloha River or plunge down the seven-story Kalani Towers water slides.

Historical perspective

This year has been an important one for Branson, as it is the 100th anniversary of the city’s founding. To celebrate the occasion, a downtown Centennial Museum has been opened to feature displays and items of the region’s past. The one-room exhibit space isn’t a massive showcase, but it offers guests an easy-to-find place to start their journey into the city’s past, present and future. But, that’s not the only museum in Branson commemorating the past. In the same year as Branson’s official beginning, another international celebration was under way. Citizens of both the United States and Europe, mostly in the upper class, were raising their glasses to recognize

Artists ply their trade at Silver Dollar City, allowing guests to watch them work and see how they perform their different art efforts.

the launch of the Titanic, the massive ocean liner deemed unsinkable by the engineers of the day. As history recounts, the ship’s journey turned fatal and its moniker proved to be false, as the ship capsized, killing more than 1,500 people. The story of the Titanic is a famous one, a part of world history that will never be forgotten. The staff and leadership of the Titanic Museum in Branson want to ensure the legacy of the ship and that the memory of its crew and passengers will live on forever. The venue, designed on both the interior and exterior to resemble one of history’s more infamous ships, contains more than 400 authentic relics recovered from the sunken vessel. “Some of the artifacts we have on display are incredibly rare,” said Phoebe Head, who has worked at the museum since it opened seven years ago. Some of the items are permanent, while others are exchanged with a sister museum in Tennessee. Visitors can also find interactive displays throughout the museum, including a photo opportunity at the

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getaways

Silver Dollar City was proclaimed by Congress as the ‘Home of American Craftsmanship.’ More than 100 resident craftsmen are based at the park.

This aircraft carrier and miniature plane set was constructed entirely from toothpicks. It is one of hundreds of items on display at the Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium.

grand staircase and a pool of water kept at the temperature of the Atlantic Ocean. Guests are invited to submerge their fingers or hands to see if they could survive the cold. Recordings and exhibits on the walls tell the stories of the people behind the ship, from the engineers who designed it to those who survived the disaster. Those personal stories elicit the emotional connection. “It’s not just about the artifacts; it’s about the people coming through,” Head said. “You can stand and read newspapers all day, but until you have that personal connection, you’re not getting everything out of it.” Staff, like Head, who portrays a first-class maid, step into the roles of characters aboard the cruise and help people find those personal ties. And, sometimes, visitors can bring them new information. Head said one of the favorite stories she ever heard from a museum guest was about a group of young women making their way to live in Illinois. “Where we have a chance to teach people, sometimes we have these opportunities to learn something ourselves,” she said.

Having fun

Branson also houses two other popular museums, both tackling much less serious matters than the legacy of the Titanic and the city’s 100-year anniversary. The Hollywood Wax Museum and Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium are designed to offer guests a fun stop on their visit to town. Each venue is filled with fun, interactive exhibits.

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At Ripley’s, visitors will discover a world of the weird, as the museum collects and gathers odd items, stories and legends from around the world. A playing card replica of the Roman Coliseum, a genuine vampire killing kit from 1850, the human unicorn from Manchura and a two-headed calf are among the 400 artifacts in the collection. All held inside the most photographed building in Branson, which appears split in half in tribute to the New Madrid earthquake of 1812, many of these items simply have to be seen to be believed. And, the museum is filled with interpretive panels and displays explaining the history and significance behind each item, making it educational as well as engaging. Guests at the Hollywood Wax Museum can pose for pictures with their favorite stars of television and the silver screen. Many of the exhibit scenes feature spots for visitors to hop in and join their favorite characters, such as the crew of the Starship Enterprise. Walking through the museum, one will find stars of the past, such as Elvis Presley, John Wayne and Marilyn Monroe, as well as today’s top celebrities, including Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow and Steve Carell. At the end of the tour, guests find a special final exhibit, as Johnny Depp awaits on a wedding altar, allowing every woman’s dream to become a reality. The Wax Museum complex also includes a few other activities that can be combined for ticket discounts. These include Shoot for the Stars miniature golf course, Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors and Castle of Chaos, a multi-dimensional cinematic ride experience. And, those types of rides and games can be found throughout town. Branson is home to a seemingly endless array of mini golf courses, go-kart tracks and amusement park activities, adding an entirely new dimension to the city for families and younger audiences. Whether on the “Strip” downtown or at Branson Landing, visitors will be able to find numerous attractions that will enhance their visit, offering a complement to the nightlife and entertainment that has made the city famous.

Branson

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Moonshine Beach at Table Rock Lake offers a traditional beach environment in the heart of the Ozarks.

There are numerous walking trails in the Ozarks surrounding Branson.

Visitors to Branson can take a tour Table Rock Dam and see the inner workings of the dam, situated on Table Rock Lake.

outdoors

story by Adam Testa

Some of the country’s finest outdoor spots are found nestled in the Ozarks While music and entertainment dominate the perceptions and legacy of Branson, there are countless treasures to be discovered in the rolling hills. And, there are an array of outlets for people looking to take in the beauty of the expansive southwestern Missouri landscape. Quite literally, the area can be explored by land, water and air. The drive to Branson will take travelers near several famous caves, filled with majesty waiting to be experienced. The sites offer guests an opportunity to start their excursion into the Ozarks with a trip beneath the earth’s surface. Scattered throughout the region and the city itself are a number of tour groups and companies that offer other means of exploring the rolling hills. From “ducks,” vessels that travel on both land and water, to helicopters and rented pontoon boats to ziplines through the forests, there are options for all types of adventurers. No matter how visitors decide to take in the Ozarks, they’re bound to be captivated by the natural beauty surrounding the little city of Branson. In fact, many visitors to the area grow to love the outdoor amenities so much they avoid the hustle and bustle of downtown. “We have folks that come to the area and never get off ‘The Strip,’” said Greg Oller, manager of Table Rock Lake for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. “We also have people whose vacation is three days, five days, seven days at one of the campgrounds, and they never go into town.” Table Rock Lake is a true gem in the Branson-area landscape. Formerly known

as White River, the lake is fed by more than 10,000 springs and rivers and has been occupied by inhabitants as early as primitive cliff dwellers. Today, a 60,000-acre portion of the lake and surrounding landscape is managed by the Corps of Engineers. Together, with Ozarks Rivers Heritage Foundation, the Corps oversees several camping locations and 13 concessionaires, ranging from boat rentals to SCUBA diving around the lake. Moonshine Beach also remains a population location on the lake, as it’s the only sand beach on the waterfront. That facility is open from May through September, but attracts thousands of people each year. One of the elements that sets Table Rock Lake apart from other waterfront destinations is that the Corps has maintained the perimeter of land around the lake, preventing commercial and residential development from crowding the shoreside areas. “When you’re out on the lake, it’s nice to look out and see trees and natural beauty, rather than someone’s house or a condo,” said Sheila Thomas, executive director of Ozarks Rivers Heritage Foundation. But, the lake offers more than just a scenic locale for swimming and boating; it’s also a top-tier site for fishermen. The lake is recognized as one of the premier black bass fishing locations in the western hemisphere and hosts more than 600 fishing tournaments annually. Nearby Lake Taneycomo, a privately operated venue, is also known for its trout fishing, making southwestern Missouri a popular destination for fishing aficionados.

And, there’s more to Table Rock Lake than just the waterfront. Guests can take a tour of Table Rock Dam or visit the brand new Dewey Short Visitor Center. Four tours of the dam are offered daily. The 26,000-square-foot visitor center, which opened in April, introduces guests to the White River area and educates them through a series of interactive displays about the region’s ecology and water conservation. The project, funded primarily with federal stimulus money, also features other amenities, such as a 2.2-mile ADAaccessible hiking trail that takes guests down to the Showboat Branson Belle and Table Rock State Park and an active wet lab classroom for students to conduct their own research. Exploring the building is a learning experience of its own, too. The facility was built under guidelines of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification standards, and plaques in different parts of the venue explain just what makes the building so green. “We want to not only educate children, but also introduce adults to the White River Basin,” Oller said. “We can offer a full day of educational, entertaining fun for no cost.” Whether it’s spending a day on Table Rock Lake or exploring the hidden caves of the Ozarks, the natural setting of southwestern Missouri offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. That experience has captivated not only visitors, but also longtime residents. “I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else,” Oller said.

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gear

Topof the

LaCie Cloud Box

class Arm your student with the latest tools

It’s time to send your students back to school, so make sure you equip them with latest tools they need to succeed. The days of needing a pen and a notebook are long gone, and, in this digital age, students need to stay ahead of the curve to stay at the head of the class. Here are some handy electronics that can make life — and class — easier for students of any age.

Description: Ever been in the position where you’ve devoted time to a given computer project, only to have the device crash and lose all your progress? Backing up important documents and files is crucial, especially for a student who has all his relevant schoolwork on one computer. This device makes that back-up process easier — and more reliable — than ever. LaCie’s Cloud Box includes both a local hard drive and access to a cloud server storage system. Connect the device to a computer and make reserve copies of relevant files to ensure their safety. Automatic back-ups are made to the cloud daily. If the computer crashes, you won’t be lost, as those files will still be accessible through the Cloud Box. After the first year, the cloud-based service carries an additional fee. The device stores 100 GB of information. Cost: $199 at lacie.com

— Adam Testa

Thin Laptops Description: Modern trends have seen everything get smaller. Phones continue to become more handheld — and more powerful — and tablets have replaced computers in regards to basic computing tasks. But for those who still need a full-fledged computer, those have gotten smaller, too. Apple innovated the technology with the MacBook Air, a compact, yet powerful laptop. Sized at less than an inch thin, the Air uses flash storage, memory chips designed to be incredibly thin and light, rather than full-sized hard drives. The flash storage is solid, meaning there are no moving parts, creating a reliable, durable and quiet computer. Now, other companies are jumping into the market, as well. Intel announced this spring that more than 75 Ultrabooks, the PC-equivalent to the MacBook Air would be released before the end of 2012. They feature reduced size and weight without com-promising performance and battery life. These laptops allow students to take their computers on the go without worrying about lugging around a bulky, heavy device. Cost: Varies; from $999 for Apple MacBook Air at apple.com Description: Typing on a smartphone or tablet can be a pain. The buttons are small, fingers often swipe the wrong letters and trying to compose a sentence — let alone a paragraph or document — can be an annoyance. This portable keyboard creates an ultra-compact opportunity for students to take their work, or class notes, on the go with ease. Compatible with iPhones, iPads, Bluetooth-enabled Android 3.0 tablets and the Blackberry Playbook, the keyboard measures less than 7 inches by 4 inches by 1 inch when folded closed. It features a standard-style keyboard, though some letter keys are reduced in size to fit around the folding hinges. The space bar is also split in two, which may cause some users some hesitation or error in the beginning, but it’s easy to get used to. The device also features additional media controls and keyboard shortcuts to work with phones and tablets. From typical fare like play/pause buttons and volume to more advanced keys replacing commands like copy and paste, the user has a lot of control at their fingertips. Two AAA batteries power the device. Cost: $104 at verbatim.com

84 Life & Style : Fall 2012

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Life & Style : Fall 2012 85

self

Moving energy with

Mind and body practice gains momentum in Southern Illinois

Marty Davis practices Tai Chi next to Crab Orchard Lake.

86 Life & Style : Fall 2012

story by Poornima Jayaraman photography by Paul Newton Local musician and Tai Chi instructor Marty Davis has an interesting claim to fame. He can turn his palms dark purple in a short amount of time by moving heat to his hands. How does he do it? By moving his chi (energy). To many, that may sound a bit farfetched. But, more and more people are turning to mind-body practices, such as Tai Chi, pronounced “tie-chee,” to help the flow throughout the body of a proposed vital energy called chi (also spelled as qi or ch’i, which means “air” or “power”). “Can you think of any exercise that is slow moving?” asks Davis, who teaches Tai Chi in the continuing education program at John A. Logan College in Carterville. “In the western world, our whole concept of exercise is fast movements and cardio-type activities. Tai Chi, on the other hand, is all about working with your own chi through slow, precise, dance-like movements,” he says. An ancient discipline originating in China as a martial art, Tai Chi, also called t’ai chi ch’uan and tai chi chuan, involves a continuous series of controlled, usually slow movements designed to improve physical and mental well-being. According to the American Tai Chi and Qigong Association, one of the core concepts of Tai Chi is that the forces of Yin and Yang should be in balance. In Chinese philosophy, yin and yang are two principles, or elements, that make up the universe and everything in it, and that they also oppose each other. Yin is believed to have the qualities of water, such as coolness, darkness, stillness, and inward and downward directions, and to be feminine in character. Yang is believed to have the qualities of fire, such as heat, light, action, and upward and outward movement, and to be masculine. In this belief system, people’s yin and yang need to be in balance in order for them to be healthy, and the art of Tai

Chi is about achieving balance both physically and emotionally. Bill Connell, massage therapy instructor at John A. Logan College and licensed massage therapist, practices Tai Chi five to seven times a week. He first started learning the slow-moving martial art form in 1988 in Gainesville, Fla., as a student. “Tai Chi appealed to me because of my interest in health and wellness and my massage therapy background,” Connell says. “The idea of creating maximum force with the least amount of effort was attractive.” Often described as meditation in motion, experts note that a Tai Chi performance involves three major components — movement, meditation and deep breathing — working together to create a slowmoving dance form that: • Helps massage the internal organs • Aids the exchange of gases in the lungs • Helps the digestive system work better • Increases calmness and awareness • Improves balance Exercising every muscle, joint, tendon and ligament in the body, this lowimpact, weight-bearing, aerobic exercise and meditation helps with balance, coordination and agility and can aid with cardiovascular health, diabetes, arthritis, fall prevention, mental health, pain reduction, weight loss and much, much more. Studies show that Tai Chi helps lower blood pressure, reduce stress and is especially recommended for seniors, as it helps with focus, concentration and memory. Most recently, University of South Florida and Fudan University scientists

Studies have found an hour of Tai Chi twice a week for 12 weeks reduces pain and improves mood and physical functioning more than standard stretching exercises in people with severe knee osteoarthritis. found that elderly Chinese people, who practiced Tai Chi thrice weekly for eight months, did better on memory tests than those who didn’t do Tai Chi. These same folks also experienced growth in brain volume. This is promising, since the brain actually shrinks because of lost nerve connections, before dementia. Studies have found that an hour of Tai Chi twice a week for 12 weeks reduces pain and improves mood and physical functioning more than standard stretching exercises in people with severe knee osteoarthritis. It’s also been found to be a safe and effective way to maintain bone density in postmenopausal women. “It’s such a beautiful martial art form,” Connell says. “It appeals on so many levels with its rich concept of balance, stillness of preparation, body alignment, breath awareness and fluidity of movement. There is exquisite precision in every movement. Even a punch in Tai Chi is delivered in slow motion.”

more Gaia House Interfaith Center in Carbondale offers Tai Chi sessions. Every Tuesday at 5:45 p.m., a group of Tai Chi enthusiasts meets to practice this martial art form. Visit www.ourgaiahouse.com or call 618-549-7387 for more information. John A. Logan College in Carterville offers continuing education classes in Tai Chi. Visit www.jalc.edu or call 800-851-4720 for more information. Marty Davis offers private and group Tai Chi classes in his Carbondale home. Call 618-549-3690 for more information.

Life & Style : Fall 2012 87

88 Life & Style : Fall 2012

scenic beauty

Refuge Drive

Road-running through the refuge will get you a close look at most of the region’s wildlife story and photography by Les Winkeler Visually, there is nothing spectacular about Refuge Drive in Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. Yes, the road carries visitors over a Pigeon Creek, and, yes, it crosses an arm of Crab Orchard Lake. However, there is nothing about the drive that separates it from 1,000 other roads in Southern Illinois — except the wildlife. If you pay attention and drive slowly, it’s possible to see virtually every critter calling Southern Illinois home. Refuge Drive begins near the Crab Orchard Visitor Center on Illinois 148. Turning west off 148, visitors are greeted by open fields, fields that frequently hold turkey in the spring, deer in the fall and Canada geese in the winter. A stop near Pigeon Creek can be particularly productive in the fall and winter. Ducks and beaver tend to congregate in the flooded fields adjacent to the creek. Bald eagles can frequently be spotted soaring over the duck-filled fields. A pond west of the creek, readily visible from Refuge Drive, is a magnet for ducks and geese in the fall and winter. The surrounding fields hold tons of indigo buntings, bluebirds, dickcissels and other grassland birds during the spring and summer. And never drive past the open fields without searching for the deer and wild turkey that call the region home. The road winds through wooded areas, which are a haven for songbirds, ranging from the radiant American goldfinch to Baltimore orioles, before crossing an arm

of Crab Orchard Lake. Hooded mergansers, northern shovelers, American black ducks, coots and great blue herons are often seen in this section of the lake. Refuge Drive intersects with Wolf Creek Road a short distance past the lake. I’d recommend turning south and crossing the causeway, no matter the time of year. During the winter months this section of the lake holds ruddy ducks,

Red-winged blackbird

goldeneye, common mergansers and assorted other species. During the summer months, this is an excellent area for woodpeckers, red-winged blackbirds, bluebirds, tree swallows and other species. Wolf Creek Road eventually dead ends south of the causeway. Turn around and continue north until the intersection with Old Illinois 13. It’s amazing how different things look heading the opposite direction. In addition, the drive north takes visitors past excellent waterfowl and turkey habitat. While the scenery on Refuge Drive isn’t spectacular, a person rarely has time to notice because of the abundance of wildlife.

Great blue heron

Life & Style : Fall 2012 89

decor

Open the

on door something new

Custom stained glass makes it easy to upscale cabinet doors story by Becky Malkovich The elegant addition of hand-crafted stained glass can update the look of even the most tired of kitchens. Glass Haunt, a stained glass studio in Benton, specializes in custom stained glass for residential and commercial customers. A large chunk of its business comes from making cabinet door inserts. “Adding stained glass is a way to revamp the whole kitchen without the cost of replacing cabinetry,” owner Ruth Green said. “You can modernize your kitchen in a very unique way.” The process is fairly simple, even for all-wood cabinets, Green said. The center wooden panel of the cabinet door is professionally routed out and replaced with the hand-crafted stained-glass panel of the customer’s design.

contact us Glass Haunt 218 N. McLeansboro St., Benton 618-439-9481 www.glasshaunt.com

90 Life & Style : Fall 2012

AARON EISENHAUER

Ruth Green, owner of Glass Haunt in Benton, shows some computergenerated designs. ‘If you can imagine it in glass, we can make it,’ she says.

Push pins hold together pieces of an stained-glass lamp project in process.

“If you imagine it in glass, we can make it. We can take your original concept to a whole new level.” she said. For those customers fresh out of design ideas, Glass Haunt offers a solution with its easy ordering system, sales manager Bill Rosado said. “It’s simple. Choose from one of our hundreds of patterns, pick the colors you want and we’ll do the rest,” he said. “There are no hidden charges. The price you see is the price you’ll pay.”

While the kitchen is often the most used room in a house, stained glass will stand up to the use and abuse, Green said. “Stained glass is a lot less fragile than you might think because it has internal steel reinforcing,” she said. The stained-glass artwork is portable, too. “I know sometimes people are hesitant because they think, ‘What if I leave this house?’ but that’s a really easy fix,” Green said. “Come back to us and we’ll take out the stained glass and put in inexpensive frosted glass.” The studio also creates custom stained glass for doors, sidelights, transoms, table tops, windows and more; does restoration work; and offers stained glass classes and supplies.

Life & Style : Fall 2012 91

cheers to beer

Rethink drink the

story by Shawn Connelly To most of us, the beer can conjures up images of light, fizzy swill being slammed down in copious amounts with aluminum cans strewn about the scene in various stages of impaction, often as the result of a direct blow from a boot stomp or a forehead smash. This notion is largely the result of cultural perceptions shaped by Hollywood college party movies, of course, but there exists a real stigma among discerning beer drinkers (not an oxymoron, by the way) that canned beer is the sole jurisdiction of the lowest common denominator among us — it’s inferior quality, cheap and not to be taken seriously by any beer aficionado worth his salt. The can is to beer what the screw-top bottle is to wine. At least, this used to be the case. Believe it or not, food has been packaged in cans for more than 200 years now and beer since the mid-1930s. In those days, cans were manufactured from steel or tin-plated alloys, but aluminum has become the predominant material used in food packaging in the modern era. And, for those who wonder about the tin-can taste in canned beer, that phenomenon is largely as much a myth as the perceived inferiority of the can itself. Beverage can interiors are coated with a naturally-derived epoxy resin that creates a protective layer between the metal and the liquid inside. This resin coating technology is widely used in all manner of canned foods and has proven to be effective in completely eliminating the metallic taste associated with a canned product. Beer cans, despite their long-held reputation, are in fact a superior package

92 Life & Style : Fall 2012

to glass for several significant reasons. They are impervious to light, for one, which is the single most detrimental factor to beer’s quality and the culprit for skunked beer. Beer becomes skunky as a result of photochemical reactions due to ultraviolet light exposure. Clear and green bottles don’t provide any protection from ultraviolet light, and amber-colored bottles provide only partial protection. Cans also provide a completely air-tight seal against oxygen, which is another common beer killer. Oxidized beer creates a papery or cardboard-like offflavor and generally dulls the flavor and aroma of beer drastically. This is also why more and more well-respected winemakers throughout the world are moving to the use of screw-top bottles for high-end wines, rather than natural or synthetic corks. Screw tops prevent corked wine off-flavors and eliminate oxidation. Finally, cans are imminently portable and safer than glass, and they are also more environmentally friendly because they are easier and quicker to recycle. Many recreational facilities and activities disallow glass on premises altogether. Cans however, accompany you to the beach, to an outdoor concert or on the hiking trail with ease and no fear of breakage — of the bottle or the rules. We all know about the afore-mentioned light lager beer brands that are commonly associated with the can, but what might come as a surprise is that the American craft beer industry is embracing canning these days, as well. The Brewers Association noted back in 2010 that there were nearly 100 independently owned craft breweries in the United States

Technology actually makes beer in cans better than bottles

using the can package for at least one of their beers, and that number has grown substantially since that time. Oskar Blues Brewery in Lyons, Colo., was the trendsetter back in 2002 with Dale’s Pale Ale, and Colorado still boasts the most can-friendly breweries in the country. But, there are plenty of craft beer cans available right here in Southern Illinois, either canned regionally or available locally through distribution. The Saint Louis Brewery, better known as Schlafly, cans its Helles-Style Summer Lager, and O’Fallon Brewery puts its peach-infused Wheach ale in a can during the summer, just in time for the Sunset Concert Series or a day on the lake. Sierra Nevada, out of Chico, Calif., cans both Pale Ale and Torpedo IPA for wide distribution. You can also find an array of craft cans locally from breweries, such as Abita, Big Sky, Kräftig, New Belgium and Ska, to name a few. Popular cider-makers, Woodchuck had even begun canning its popular Amber hard cider. So, it might just be time to reconsider the can when it comes to craft beer. There’s no excuse for sticking with the cheap stuff for convenience-sake alone. The can is far craftier than we ever thought it would be. Cheers! 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.

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entertainment

Country Get ready for some big names coming to Sparta

Tim McGraw

entley

Dierks B

Trace Adkins

94 Life & Style : Fall 2012

story by Adam Testa Southern Illinois and country music have an intertwined history. The region has produced numerous successful Nashville stars, those making names for themselves both on the stage and behind the songwriting pen. Names like Herrin’s David Lee Murphy and Benton’s Billy Grammar accumulated countless awards and recognitions for their work in the industry. Kendal Marvel of Thompsonville has penned songs for some of the industry’s top stars, including Trace Adkins and Gary Allan, while Kyle Lehning of Cairo has produced nearly all of Randy Travis’ albums. In recent months and years, Southern Illinois has also become a destination for the top country music stars of today and yesterday. Performers such as Charlie Daniels, Sheryl Crow, Adkins and Allan have toured the region, playing venues from the World Shooting & Recreation Complex in Sparta to Rent One Park in Marion to Walker’s Bluff in Carterville.

This fall, some stars return and others debut, as Ava-based Country Wild Entertainment presents the SI Country Fest on Oct. 5-7 at the WSRC in Sparta. Promoter Alex Flores said he hopes this will be the first of many star-studded lineups coming to Southern Illinois under the CWE banner. “I think we have a lot of potential to be competing with events in bigger regions,” he said. “We want to have 30 to 50,000 people coming each year to this event.” The three-day festival will feature headlining acts Tim McGraw, Dierks Bentley and Adkins, as well as LoCash Cowboys, Colt Ford, The Farm, Casey James, Corey Smith and more. In addition to the music, the event will feature carnival rides, an Oktoberfest-style theme for beer drinkers and other fun for people of all ages. “We’re not just selling a concert; we’re selling the opportunity to be part of the experience,” Flores said.

SI Country Fest Oct. 5-7, world Shooting & Recreation Complex, Sparta Headliners are Trace Adkins (Friday), Dierks Bentley (Saturday), Tim McGraw (Sunday); also carnival, beer, food Go to sicountryfest.com.

Adkins will headline Friday night’s show, with tickets priced at $40 in advance and $50 at the gate. Saturday’s show will feature Bentley, and tickets are $55 in advance and $65 day of show. McGraw headlines the closing night on Sunday, with tickets set at $75 in advance and $85 at the gate. Multi-day passes are also available. With multiple acts playing on the main stage each day, as well as in a beer tent area, Flores said the prices will be worthwhile compared to paying similar amounts to attend concerts elsewhere.

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Life & Style : Fall 2012 95

parting shot

p.s. photo by Joel Hawksley

96 Life & Style : Fall 2012

Ryan Stallings, an 11-year-old from Marion, washes her sunglasses in the misting tent at Rent One Park. Ryan was there for the Southern Illinois Miners game against the Joliet Slammers in Marion on Sunday, July 15.

Life & Style : Fall 2012 3

4 Life & Style : Fall 2012

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