Life & Style - Winter 2010

Page 1

advertisment

advertisment

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 Niche Sales Jason Woodside Manager Executive Editor Gary Metro Editor Cara Recine Photo Editor Chuck Novara Graphic Rhonda M. Ethridge Designer Circulation Kathy Kelton Webmaster Lauren Siegert Photographers Shawn Connelly Steve Jahnke Paul Newton Chuck Novara Alan Rogers Advertising Rose Baffi Design Stacy Cramm Sharon Haege Paul Lilly Anita Palmisano Ken Rowe Jay Stemm

Make

s ’ e i k c a M your holiday ! e c a l p y t r pa

Contributors Shawn Connelly Bruce Morgenstern D.W. Norris Les O’Dell Claire Ploegman Cara Recine Brent Stewart Joe Szynkowski Adam Testa Copy Editors Rob Crow Cara Recine Adam Testa

Now accepting reservations for up to 100 guests for the 2010 Holiday Season.

y!

Call toda

618-997-4100

www.mackiespizza.com

Mackie’s Pizza Iconic Pizza since 1972 2704 Walton Way, Marion, IL

2 Life & Style : Winter 2010

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. © 2010 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.

letter

Letter from the executive editor You may be wondering about me – perhaps even more than usual – after looking at the peculiar picture on this page. Some may wonder, “What does this have to do with the holidays?” It makes perfect sense to me. As a child I associated Santa Claus with Christmas, which remains my favorite holiday. But as an adult, the greatest Christmas fun occurred during the annual office party – until crazy behavior by others later destroyed all of the fun. During my first Christmas season at a new home in Wisconsin, some fellow newspaper reporters I barely knew persuaded me to wear a reindeer costume and join them in crashing the annual women’s Christmas Party. Another reporter dressed as Santa, while another co-worker also wore the horns, fur suit and tights of a faux reindeer. It was a hilarious evening, and I think about it annually. Was the funniest moment when Santa carelessly tossed a delicate glass gift across the room? Or was it when the friend who gave me a ride in the snow got into a fender-bender and insisted I leave the car so police wouldn’t ask about a reindeer passenger? Maybe you had to be there. Each year since, I don the reindeer horns and remember the fun. You probably have your own special holiday memories, hopefully more filled with glad tidings than my brand of quirkiness. Join us in celebrating the spirit of the season in this issue of Life & Style in Southern Illinois. You’ll learn how to make the most of your Christmas cookies with step-by-step decorating by the pros at Larry’s House of Cakes. Learn more about Christmas cheer with a visit to Pomona Winery and their great fruit wines. We’ve also got the best-looking people from across our region caught having fun in our Social Seen picture spread, a closer look at local folks who travel the nation in search of the best mountains for skiing, and lots, lots more. Need we say more? Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas to one and all. — Gary Metro

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

Gary Metro

Chuck Novara

Holiday memories often come with a costume

Life & Style : Winter 2010 3

contents

24 Taking to the slopes

Winter 2010

8 Social Seen

I know her! See who you recognize in our special photo feature

Southern Illinoisans hit the mountains at home and abroad

42 Cheers to Beer

Specialty beers deserve a place at the table in seasonal celebrations

14 Good Eats: Creating the Christmas cookie We’ve got the recipe for some good, old-fashioned togetherness

18 You’ve been called to the coach’s office

48 Where We Live Marion couple has built a dream of a dream house

cover photo Cover photograph taken by Lori Sweitzer of Photography by Lori in Marion, Illinois.

Get a glimpse into SIU basketball coach Chris Lowery’s new digs

20 Quick Hit: Bah, humbug! Are you a Scrooge? If you’re not too grumpy to answer some questions, you’ll find out

36 This historic theater makes a strong showing Rediscover the Liberty, just in time for its annual Christmas show

52 You’ll want to meet this wintering florist She’s creative, she’s fun, and she’s a national award winner

4 Life & Style : Winter 2010

this issue Outdoors Trends Profile

22 32 40

Wine Country Holiday Events Parting Shot

54 58 60

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

Life & Style : Winter 2010 5

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

0DULRQ¡V )LQHVW IRU RYHU \HDUV

)ORZHUV )LQH *LIWV :DWHUIRUG *RXUPHW &RIIHH :HGJZRRG )LQH &KRFRODWHV /DPSH %HUJHU

1DPEH

)LQH *RXUPHW )RRGV +RPH $FFHVVRULHV 9LHWUL %ULGDO 5HJLVWU\ /DPSV 'HFRU

EDITORIAL

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

ADVERTISING

Jason Woodside niche sales manager 618-351-5015 jason.woodside @thesouthern.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS 5W DW 1RUWK 0DUNHW 0DULRQ ,OOLQRLV

ZZZ HWFHWHUDIORZHUV FRP

Trisha Woodside circulation and promotions manager 618-351-5035 trisha.woodside @thesouthern.com Subscription 8 issues for $17.95 rates: 4 issues for $9.95

6WDWH RI WKH $UW /LIHWLPH 'HQWDO ([FHOOHQFH 'U +XJKHV DQG KLV VWDII ZRXOG OLNH WR ZLVK KLV SDWLHQWV DQG DOO RI 6RXWKHUQ ,OOLQRLV D 0HUU\ &KULVWPDV DQG +DSS\ 1HZ <HDU :H DSSUHFLDWH \RX HQWUXVWLQJ XV ZLWK \RXU GHQWDO FDUH

:H KRSH \RX KDYH D KDSS\ DQG KHDOWK\

Ă— ‡kĂ…ĂŒ kšÎ@Â‘ĂŒ Ă‚ĂŽĂ…ĂŒ kšÎÂk zĂŚ}ĂŒ.×Ҋš ĂŒ ŠĂ?kĂŒWĂŒ kŠš_ĂŒ ĂŒWĂŒĂŠÂĽp˛›Ă?‰Ă?ÂĽĂŚĂŚ •­Â‘@ÂšĂŽĂŒGĂŒ žÅ•kΊXĂŒ kÂšĂŽÂŠĂ…ĂŽĂ‚Ă ĂŒĂŒWĂŒ ²8²ĂŒ/kb@Ίžš ÞÞÞ²Â‡Ă— ‡kĂ…bkšÎ@‘@Ă‚ĂŽĂ…²Xž• 6 Life & Style : Winter 2010

“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

p.o. box

In great style Dear Editor, Life & Style in Southern Illinois is a lovely, high-quality magazine that showcases the best of Southern Illinois. When locals and tourists alike visit our office in the old Train Depot in search of information on businesses and attractions in the area, it’s a pleasure to give them this magazine. Life & Style gives us glimpses and highlights of the people, places and things that give Southern Illinois its special brand of charm. From the profiles, to the Social Seen, to foodie fun and everything in between, as the seasons change, I look forward to this attractive publication four times a year. There’s a lot to show off in this area, and you guys do it with great style. Way to go. Kristin Gregory, executive director Carbondale Chamber of Commerce

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

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

Life & Style : Winter 2010 7

social seen

Varsity Center for the Arts

2

1

Several people gathered Sept. 21 at the Varsity Center for the Arts in Carbondale at a reception for artist Robert Ketchens, who grew up in New Orleans but now calls Grand Chain his home. 1. Ann Knewitz (from left), Kat Shaffner, and Mary Campbell, all of Carbondale.

4

3

2. Jane Adams of Carbondale (left) and artist Robert Ketchens.

Steve Jahnke

3. Nancy Stemper (right), executive director of Carbondale Community Arts, chats with Anne Hill of Carbondale.

1

The Little Black Dress Party

2

The Little Black Dress Party was Friday, Sept. 10 at Great Boars of Fire in Anna. About 2,000 women attended the event, which was expected to raise $50,000 for the Women’s Center of Carbondale. It was the fourth year for the event.

Paul Newton

3

4

4. SIU student Nike Nguyen (from left), Carolyn A. Snyder, chair of the Varsity Center for the Arts public relations committee, SIU student Lucas Dickerson, and Najjar Abdul-Musawwir, SIUC professor of Fine Art.

1. Taylor Baker (from left) of Carbondale, Kim Baker of Makanda, Nancy Konecek of Carbondale and Marlene Kellerman of Du Quoin. 2. Paula Torres of Carbondale (from left), Sarah Panici of Carbondale, Ann Panici of Carbondale, Katelyn Lewis of Mount Vernon and Melissa McMahan of Mount Vernon. 3. Laura Estes of Carterville (from left), Joey Francis of Tunnel Hill, Krista Elliott of Carterville, Chareassa Graff of Carbondale and Kim Peters of Carterville. 4. Julie McAlpin (from left) of Marion, Kelly Alongi of Carterville, Sandi Griffith of Carterville, Jennifer Meyer of Carterfille and Maria Jessup of Cartervillle.

8 Life & Style : Winter 2010

Find us at your local retailer! Start! Heart Walk Southern Illinois Start! Heart Walk was Saturday, Oct. 2, at John A. Logan College 1. 2010 Southern Illinois Start! Heart Walk Chairman Rex Budde speaks to walkers.

Winery.com

2. Ben Hill (older brother Matt in the background). Ben is a survivor of a Congenital Heart Defect! 3. Terra Wece, ‘Hearty’ and Angela Henson pose together at the Heart Walk. Terra and Angela are from the Franklin Hospital Heart Walk team. 1

MARILYN HALSTEAD

Located at Exit 77 along I-57

618.629.2302

www.pheasanthollowwinery.com

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

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

Protect Your Investment! Let our trained technicians give you a complete winter inspection. We can handle everything from regular maintenance to all repairs.

6, ,PSRUW 'RPHVWLF ( 0DLQ &DUERQGDOH ‡ Life & Style : Winter 2010 9

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

3

PROVIDED BY WES BENNETT AND THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

2

social seen 1

‘Spring Awakening’

2

More than 700 people attended the Tony Awardwinning Broadway musical ‘Spring Awakening’ on Thursday, Oct. 14 at SIU’s Shryock Auditorium. 3

1. Jim and Barbara Lynch (from left) and Cecilia Miller, all of Benton. 2. Tyler Kearns and Jessica Kossina (SIUC alumna) of St. Louis. 3. Carl and Stephanie Daly (from left), Abi Cowser, and Cheryl Barrett, all of Carbondale. 4. Diane and Dennis Poshard of Carbondale. 5. SIUC Students Angie Fisher of Herrin and Nick Nylen of Chicago.

5

Steve Jahnke

4

1

SIUC Homecoming

2

3

4

SIU MEDIA SERVICES

Faculty, students and alumni celebrated Homecoming at SIUC on Oct. 9. 1. Chancellor and Vice-Chancellors: Kevin Bame (from left), Adminstration and Finance; John Koropchak, Research and Graduate Dean; Chancellor Rita Cheng; Rickey McCurry, Institutional Advancement; Larry Dietz, Student Affairs; Don Rice, Provost and Vice Chancellor. 2. Homecoming Queen candidates Brittany Cheves (left) and Shantell Meuth. 3. Han-Lin Hwang Chen (from left), emerita, wife of Juh Wah Chen (center). Juh Wah is a former Dean of Engineering and Technology. Roy Heidinger (right), emeritus and former chair of the Fisheries Department. 4. Homecoming Queen candidate Taylor Poore with some of the Saluki dogs. 5. Homecoming Parade Grand Marshall Jim Hart and his wife, Mary. 5

10 Life & Style : Winter 2010

1

3

Coaches vs. Cancer

2

Hundreds gathered at Rent One Park in Marion on Wednesday, Oct. 20, to raise money for the Coaches vs. Cancer fundraiser.

4

1. Donn and Kay Hammer (from left) of Lawrenceville, Lance and Chelcee Brown of West Frankfort and SIU Assistant Basketball Coach Marcus Belcher. 2. Lesley Cranick (from left) of Makanda, Jennifer Badin of Marion and Deana Hale of Marion. 3. George (from left) and Janet Kao of Carbondale, Andy Bjornbegat and Colleen Lawler of Carterville. 4. Dan Reid (from left), Bridget Lawler-Reid of Marion and Mike and Sherri Lawler of Marion.

Paul Newton

5

5. Melodi Sheffer (from left) of Herrin, Megan Weber of Champaign, Kitty Davis of Carbondale, Erika Lowery of Carbondale and Nancy Cook of Carbondale.

Jonathan W. Burton, DMD is a board certified surgeon offering a full scope of state-of-the-art oral and maxillofacial surgery. He also performs a full range of dental implant and bone grafting procedures.

Dr. Jonathan W. Burton, D.M.D.

2250 Reed Station Parkway Office Place, Suite 201 Carbondale, IL www.shawneehillsoms.com

H E A LT H . C ON F I D E N C E . H APPI N E SS.

618-519-9363

Your smile says it all.

Life & Style : Winter 2010 11

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

Diplomate-American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

social seen

Inspiring Women

1

The 2010 Inspiring Women Gala Saturday, Oct. 23 at the SIUC Student Center. 1. J. Phil (from left) and Gail Gilbert of Carbondale, SIUC Alumni Jim Minton and Pam Gilbert Minton of South Carolina, Gail Gilbert Malott and Kai Malott. 3

2

2. Tibretta Reiman (from left) of Pinckneyville, Virginia Richart of Pinckneyville and Bonnie and Tom Hudgins of Pinckneyville. 3. Faith Miller (left) of Carbondale and Tasha Coney of Carbondale. 4. Bill (from left) and Linda Schuh of Springfield, Rachael Berbano of Carbondale and Ben Althoff of Carbondale. 5. Jill (left) and William (right) Ehling of Herrin along with Marlene Dietz of Carbondale. 6. Doris (from left), Emma and John Kiesling of Carterville.

4

7. Aura Woodruff (from left) of Carbondale, Callynn Pearl of Evansville, Ind., Pam Pearson of Marion and David and Tamra Moore of Goreville. 8. Martha Campbell (from left) of Murphysboro, Sharn Benton of Carbondale, Pat Cheniae of Cobden and Sharon Williams of Makanda.

6

Paul Newton

5

7

12 Life & Style : Winter 2010

8

1 ( : ( 6 7 + 2 7 ( / , 1 7 + ( $5($ ‡ ,QGRRU 3RRO 6SD )LWQHVV &HQWHU ‡ )5(( :L)L &RPIRUW 6XQVKLQH %UHDNIDVW ‡ 0LFUR )ULGJH &RIIHH 3RW ,URQ %RDUG ‡ -DFX]]L 6XLWHV $YDLODEOH ‡ 6PRNH )UHH 3HW )ULHQGO\

)RU WKH %HVW 'HDO &DOO 5HHG 6WDWLRQ 3DUNZD\ &DUERQGDOH ,/ ‡ ‡ & + 2 , & ( + 2 7 ( / 6 & 2 0

/­kXŠ@Â‘ĂŒ ŠxĂŽĂ…_ĂŒ @Ă…Â?kĂŽĂ…ĂŒxÂžĂ‚ĂŒ@ÂšĂ ĂŒ$XX@Ŋžš

Lunch Served Mon-Sat All Occasion Florals & Catering Extensive Craft Beer & Wine Selection Drive-Thru Window Mon-Thur 9am-10pm Fri-Sat 9am-11pm Sunday Noon-10pm

Corner of Crainville Rd. & Rt. 13 • 618-985-2226 • www.spiritsfoodflorals.com Life & Style : Winter 2010 13

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

3UH PDGH DQG FXVWRP RUGHU JLIW EDVNHWV IHDWXUH JRXUPHW IRRG LWHPV ZLQH FUDIW EHHU JUHDW JLIW VHWV KDQGSDLQWHG JODVVZDUH DQG PRUH 6SHFLDO JLIW LWHPV IRU HQWHUWDLQLQJ FDQGOHV ORWLRQV DQG VRDSV KHOS FXVWRPL]H JLIW EDVNHWV IRU DQ\RQH RQ \RXU OLVW

good eats

The

Christmas cookie For most of us, making these holiday treasures is a recipe for togetherness in good times

story by Claire Ploegman Southern Illinois is a land tented beneath Midwestern skies yet ruffled by the hills of the South, and its winters can go either way. While waiting to see if the holidays bring drifts of white or just leave lawns freezer-burned, everyone is affected by the gravitational pull of holiday cookie exchanges, surely something to do with the earth’s wintry tilt. Tinfoil, or the baker’s tinsel, gilds countless party platters, which are always stacked and wedged with goodies. Light investigative cookie journalism shows that Southern Illinoisans handle the season’s oven-made demands with dashes of regional pride and family heritage. What’s in the batter in Steeleville? Walnut trees “grow up volunteer” throughout the region, according to Tammy Steele, and her devotion to her family tree makes the most of that. Tammy’s cookies contain nuts from a tree her father tended. He always cracked the freshest batches with farm tools in the barn. “Some people like to freeze dough,” says Tammy. But she remembers a better way. Scooted off the chopping block and into the mixing bowl, the walnuts meet a heap of pecans gathered from her in-laws’ property, a 200-year-old homestead linking the last name they all share to the founders of Steeleville. Some of Tammy’s family cookbooks are so old that temperatures and bake times can’t be specified; just try to “preheat” wood and coal! It’s the aroma that keeps Tammy baking until the moment holiday guests arrive. “When it starts cooling off, you get that feeling, that harvest smell,” she says, and one can almost hear her sigh. In Herrin, Susan Murphy finds herself in the middle of generational tastes. Though Susan’s Italian mother mixed fancy cookies with nuts, candied fruit and coconut, decades intervened and cleared her cookie sheet. “It didn’t exactly take with the next generation,” Susan explains. Grandma’s add-ins confused Susan’s own children, who liked the simpler taste of rolled-out sugar cookies smoothed over with red and green icing. Before long, fruit won over the family palate through a storybook called “Cranberry Christmas,” which closed with a back-cover recipe. The story particularly charmed Susan’s Susan Murphy of Herrin is a big fan of both Italian and Swedish biscotti.

See what the region’s contest-winning cooks are making for the holidays; go to www.thesouthern.com/ holidaycookbook 14 Life & Style : Winter 2010

Steve Jahnke

Traditional Italian Biscotti Sift together:

Combine:

2 ½ cups of flour (might need extra later) 2 teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon salt

3 1 1 1 1 1

beaten eggs cup sugar stick butter (½ cup) melted teaspoon vanilla teaspoon anise cup chopped walnuts

Preheat oven to 350. Grease two cookie sheets.

a designer from Haxtun, Colo., known for this kind of custom kitchen utensil. “She said, ‘Yes, and we have been selling the Saluki Dog ever since,’� says Dona. “We also had her design a Pulliam Clock Tower cutter and an Abraham Lincoln cutter.� For those who consider themselves holiday crafters rather than holiday shoppers, “from scratch� is particularly appealing when an eyelet punch and tin snips precede butter and sugar. A Carbondale-based online business called Basic Copper sells rolls of copper strips intended for creating cookie cutters. “The material is Alloy 110, which means that it is 99.9 percent pure copper,� explains Owner Cathy Kunz. “We began offering the material because we had so many requests for it, mainly from the professional bakers.� The strips’ rounded edges are considerate of bakers’ hands, especially the tender little palms that usually help cut holiday sugar cookies. Farther south, Anna-Jonesboro native Kim Emery focuses on the task

3ULPLWLYLHV $QWLTXHV 7UHHV &DQGOHV 2UQDPHQWV *LIW &HUWLILFDWHV $YDLODEOH &/26(' ,1 -$18$5<

6SHFLDOL]LQJ LQ &RXQWU\ *LIWV 'HFRU 6 0DSOH 6W ‡ 7XHV 6DW PLOHV ZHVW RI &DUWHUYLOOH DW WKH &DPEULD &URVVURDGV

In a mixer, add the dry ingredients slowly to the combined ingredients. Add more flour if mixture seems too gooey. Fold in the chopped nuts. Divide the dough into four parts, and shape into four logs. Place two logs on each cookie sheet. Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and cool slightly. Cut the loaves into ½ inch slices. Turn the slices on their sides on the cookie sheet and bake another 5-10 minutes depending on the degree of crispness you prefer. Remove and cool cookies. Place in airtight cookie tins. — Adapted by Susan Murphy

of icing, which always makes memories for children and the family members guiding their hands. “The most important part of the season is the time we spend together,� Kim says. If pressed for time as the holidays close in, forego baking together for icing together. Kim manages the Carbondale Larry’s House of Cakes, and for many who return home to Southern Illinois for the holidays, a stack of cookies from Larry’s is synonymous with the term “homemade,� so just adding decorations entertains without forfeiting sentiment.

5(+$% &$5( &(17(5 2) -$&.621 &2 ‡ $O]KHLPHU¡V 'HPHQWLD 6SHFLDO &DUH 8QLW ‡ 3K\VLFDO 2FFXSDWLRQDO 6SHHFK 6ZDOORZLQJ 7KHUDSLHV ‡ 6NLOOHG 1XUVLQJ 6HUYLFHV ‡ 5HVSLWH +RVSLFH 6HUYLFHV $YDLODEOH ‡ 5HVWDXUDQW 6W\OH 'LQLQJ

5

& &

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

daughter, Shannon, now a Navy pharmacist stationed in Italy. Shannon invites her Navy friends to bake American Christmas cookies in her Sicilian kitchen when she wants a taste of her Herrin home. Stateside, Susan is perfecting biscotti recipes. She swaps anise for cardamom spice in a nod to the Swedish heritage of Shannon’s husband. Susan says her daughtersin-law put heart into their cookies as well, and the results are enviable. “I’ve been surprised at how the next generation seems to be so into cookie baking,� Susan says. “They seem to enjoy it as much as my mother did.� Down toward the tip of Illinois, the state line squiggles, which might be why the locals crave more interesting silhouettes, more unique cookie cutters. Carbondale purveyors have been happy to oblige. Dona Bachman, director of Southern Illinois University Museum, first gifted students, faculty and fans with uniquely regional cookie cutters in 2004. Museum Education Director Bob DeHoet rendered SIUC’s mascot for Dona, who queried Elenna Firme,

6WRS LQ DQG YLVLW RXU UHVLGHQWV VWDII

1 WK 6W ‡ 0XUSK\VERUR ,/ ‡

+DSS\ +ROLGD\V IURP 2XU +RPH 7R <RXUV Life & Style : Winter 2010 15

good eats

Decorate like the pros Kim Emery, manager of Larry’s House of Cakes’ Carbondale location, translates Larry’s snowman icing technique for cupcakes and cookies. Kim also shares one of her favorite holiday recipes, sweet sugar cookies by her mom, Karen Vaughn.

Sure Thing Sugar Cookie 1 cup shortening 4 cups flour ½ cup milk 2 eggs

1 ½ cups sugar 2 teaspoons baking soda ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon almond extract

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Cut shortening into flour using a pastry blender until the mixture is the consistency of cornmeal. Combine the remaining ingredients and mix with flour and shortening mixture.

step by step

Roll the dough to ⅛-inch thickness. Cut into various shapes with cookie cutters.

Prepare a bag as above with black icing. Use a finer tip or cut a smaller section from the corner of the bag. Draw a square on top of the snowman’s head. Fill it in and add a straight line for the hat brim. Dot the eyes, mouth, and buttons.

16 Life & Style : Winter 2010

Bake on a cookie sheet for 8-10 minutes.

Ne

w

to n

Time saver: Cut all cookies round and decorate with your favorite designs and sprinkles.

Pa ul

Swipe blue icing over the entire cookie. (Tip for decorating Larry’s signature cookies: Flip them over and ice the flat side.)

Fill a decorating bag or plastic sandwich bag with white icing. Feel free to use an icing bag tip or just snip off one corner. Squeeze the bag to draw three successive circles. Begin each with the outer edge and swirl into the middle to fill.

To create the carrot-like nose, use a bag of orange icing to form a dot and pull the bag upward, away from the cookie. Use brown icing to draw arms and red (or a preferred color) for a scarf. Finish with white snowy sprinkles and edible glitter.

To pick up Larry’s House of Cakes signature cookies and icing kit, call ahead and specify the number of batches. In Carbondale, call 618-519-9378, in Marion call 618-9933906

&DQ \RX LPDJLQH WKLV NLWFKHQ ZLWK D ODPLQDWH FRXQWHUWRS"

1HLWKHU FDQ ZH +RPH %X\HUV SUHIHU WKH EHDXW\ RI JUDQLWH *LYH WKHP ZKDW WKH\ ZDQW &DUERQGDOH ,/

ZZZ I Z V QHW

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

*UDQLWH NLWFKHQV IDEULFDWHG DQG LQVWDOOHG LQ ZHHNV

Life & Style : Winter 2010 17

sports

WORK SPACES

With the remote on his desk and his computer, Lowery can transform the flat-screen TV on his wall into a mini movie theatre showing YouTube highlights of recruits.

Chris Lowery Southern Illinois University Carbondale head men’s basketball coach Chris Lowery leads the most nationally recognizable sports program in the school’s athletic department. The Salukis built their hard-nosed defensive reputation against top tournament teams and by playing in a loud and difficult SIU Arena. The Arena has gotten a facelift and Lowery, the seven-year leader of the Salukis, lets us peek inside his new office.

Bruce Weber autographed a basketball celebrating the University of Illinois’ 2004 Big Ten championship and trip to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tourney. Lowery was an assistant on that team. Two souvenirs from former center Nick Evans’ 2008 basketball trip to China. The first is a crucifix with Chinese symbols (Lowery isn’t sure what they mean); the second is something similar, a small paperweight with Lowery’s last name inside.

— D.W. Norris

photography by Steve Jahnke

Lowery keeps photographs of his wife, Erika, and their four children on his desk. He said of all the things in his office, those photos are items he could not live without. “Pictures of my family are No. 1,” he said.

A copy of John C. Maxwell’s 2006 book “The 17 Essential Qualities of a Team Player.” Lowery: “He puts things in perspective. Everything is leadership, but there are also Christian points of view.”

Lowery has a subscription to the coaches’ magazine, “Winning Hoops.”

For all the information you need about SIU basketball, the new Arena, ticket info, games, chat and the Dawg Blog, go to www.salukimania.com, sponsored by The Southern Illinoisan.

18 Life & Style : Winter 2010

An atlas covers a calendar on Lowery’s desk. Lowery leans on both during recruiting. “Those are pretty much how I’ve been running around,” he said.

Lowery coached the Salukis to a 29-7 record and trip to the NCAA tournament’s Sweet 16. This ball is signed by the Salukis and their coaches.

Lowery is refurbishing the Salukis’ first MVC championship trophy. Mike Glenn led the Salukis to the 1977 league title.

Saluki Basketball

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

The Southern Illinois University basketball team opened play in the newly refurbished SIU Arena with an exhibition game against Quincy University Oct. 30. Regular season play opens Nov. 16 when the Salukis play at 9 a.m., yes, 9 a.m., against Northeastern. The Salukis open Missouri Valley Conference play at Drake Dec. 29. Season and individual tickets are available. Call 877-725-8547 or 618-453-2000.

Life & Style : Winter 2010 19

quick hits

Are you a Scrooge? Well, bah humbug! The holiday season is upon us, and it’s time for some overdue love: Three cheers for Ebenezer Scrooge and his modern-day disciples. Real or imagined, Scrooge is one of the top three most recognizable characters in Christmas lore. Scrooge is integral to the popular tale “A Christmas Carol.” Only Jesus or Santa Claus can match Scrooge’s Christmastime Q rating. It’s past time to recognize a great man. And to the people who use “scrooge” as an insult? Well, bah humbug! Without scrooges, who would be a yucky yin to happy yuletide yang? Nobody, that’s whom. What would the holiday season be like without everybody’s favorite noel cheapskates? Stores would be a lot more crowded. Who would give all the rosy-

cheeked Christmas Pollyannas a reason to feel self-satisfied? Not the folks who fake happiness; it’s the scrooges. Scrooge is one of the original fiscal conservatives, and his disciples help make the holidays go ’round. Scrooges bring positives by not doing negative things. Hate your neighbor’s ugly decorations that’ll stay up until July? It’s not a scrooge who did it. Work at a restaurant open on Christmas? A scrooge, not St. Nick, is the reason you’re making a wage on the holiday. Dine in or carry out, it’s all the same. Think an angel gets its wings every time a bell rings? Tell that to the pizza delivery person dropping off a scrooge’s pie. Obviously, scrooge-ism is stronger in some than it is in others. But what about you or the ones you love? Curious if you have Scrooge-like tendencies? Here are some clues:

l If you don’t own reindeer antlers or holiday-themed sweaters, you’re a little scrooge. l If you can’t stand eggnog, or really, any nog, you’re a little scrooge. l Do you hope every gift you get comes with a receipt? Scrooge. Scrooges are underrated during the holidays. They make the generous and the cheap feel better about themselves. They also pick up the slack for those who can’t be bothered with real life during the season. Who volunteers to work Christmas shifts? Think it’s the person who wears a Santa cap for a month straight, starting the day after Thanksgiving? Think again, Cratchit. Scrooges don’t buy into the commercialism or the goody, goody gumdrop giddiness. If you know a scrooge, thank them for helping you appreciate the holiday. If you are a scrooge, thank yourself. — D.W. Norris

Scrooge DVD list Ebenezer Scrooge has spent each Christmas ruining the holiday season for the Cratchits and others who dare step in the way of his greedy, self-serving ways for more than 150 years. And through that time, the man has had several faces,

20 Life & Style : Winter 2010

personalities and physical appearances, creating a sense of multiple personality disorder and leaving the yuletide villain with a severe sense of identity crisis. Among the many faces of Scrooge are the following: Reginald Owens, “A Christmas Carol,” (1931): This British character actor, possibly recognizable as Admiral Boom from “Mary Poppins,” was one of the first actors to play old Ebenezer on the big screen. Alistair Sim, “A Christmas Carol,” (1951): This version of Charles Dickens’ popular title is widely regarded as the top of its kind, largely in part to Sim’s characterization of Scrooge and its lasting impression on the character. Sim was also animated for a 1971 version of the film known for its

dark overtones and horrifying personification of Jacob Marley’s ghost. Scrooge McDuck, “Mickey’s Christmas Carol,” (1983): In Disney’s animated retelling of Dickens’ story, there’s only one character imaginable who could fill the role of Ebenezer Scrooge, the cartoon fowl who shares his name and money-grubbing lifestyle. Bill Murray, “Scrooged,” (1988): A television producer working on “A Christmas Carol” finds out the hard way he’s the real scrooge of Hollywood in this comedy. Michael Caine, “The Muppet Christmas Carol,” (1992): The legendary actor shares the screen with Kermit, Miss Piggy and Company in this adaptation, one that joins a line of other popular movies starring Jim Henson’s classic creations.

6SULQJ 5HJLVWUDWLRQ 8QGHUZD\ (QUROO QRZ IRU RQH RI WKH EHVW HGXFDWLRQV LQ WKH FRXQWU\ ULJKW KHUH DW KRPH

-RKQ $ /RJDQ &ROOHJH

Look for Thomas Coffee in your local grocery store, and coming soon to your favorite restaurant. 1-800-827-7020 www.pepsimidamerica.com Life & Style : Winter 2010 21

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

/RJDQ &ROOHJH 5RDG &DUWHUYLOOH ,OOLQRLV ‡ ZZZ MDOF HGX

outdoors

The

hunting life

It takes plenty of equipment – and heart – to do it right and to do it well Southern Illinois’ most dedicated waterfowl hunters know one thing: their favorite pastime is no cheap hobby. The price tags on big-ticket items like guns, boats and decoys can add up to a pretty lofty total. But the addiction that comes with the sport far outweighs the expense, which has helped make waterfowl hunting more popular than ever. Hunters are quick to point out that the little things like goose and duck calls, ammunition, comfortable boots and warm clothing can also add up quickly. “Obviously your guns and ammo are important, but so is the location you’re going to use,” said local hunter and call developer Tim Grounds. “You have to do your research and find a good location. And you’ve got to have your decoys and, of course, your calls if you’re a caller.” Grounds owns Tim Grounds Championship Calls in Johnston City and has been in business for 36 years. He sells everything from fleece neck guards to hunting bags and specializes in calls and whistles. He says a lot of hunters know how to use the calls, but it’s all in the timing. “It’s something that comes over time,” he said. “It’s experience. You need to have a good call … but it’s not learning how to blow the call that makes you a good hunter; it’s learning when. A lot of times, the call is better off in your pocket.”

22 Life & Style : Winter 2010

Grounds’ business also offers instructional DVDs and clothing, which plays a big part in hunter safety. “If you’re going to be safe with a gun, you’ve got to be warm,” Grounds says. “Some people may forget that, but it’s a big deal. You usually only get one mistake with a shotgun.” Rick Eskew knows all about the importance of staying warm. The Waltonville fishing and hunting guide remembers what he calls “the good old days,” before the art of layering clothing was replaced by the luxury of specially engineered garb designed to battle cold weather. “I can remember many hundreds of days when you would just put on all of the pants and all of the socks you owned,” Eskew said. “You would lay on the ice for hours just to get an opportunity at a duck.” Eskew learned to appreciate the outdoors from watching how elders like his grandfather respected nature’s wildlife, land and waterways. His passion for duck hunting began in the early 1970s, when he took his first shots at the then-newly built Rend Lake. His passion remains today. “I can’t explain it,” Eskew said. “It’s an ill that there is no cure for. You hear people talking about being excited for a concert and standing in line for 10 hours. Well, if people want to see that they can just come down here around Rend Lake two or three

story by Joe Szynkowski photography by Chuck Novara and Alan Rogers

‘It’s experience. You need to have a good call … but it’s not learning how to blow the call that makes you a good hunter; it’s learning when.’ — Tim Grounds, owner of Tim Grounds Championship Calls in Johnston City

weeks before hunting season starts. You’ll see people sitting on the boat ramps just waiting for the opportunity.” One of Eskew’s favorite parts of duck hunting is the camaraderie that develops during the time between shots. “There is a lot of time that there is nothing going on,” he said. “That’s when you have time to reminisce about the old times and the old-timers who taught you things. It’s an opportunity for the youth to learn not just about hunting, but about life.” Eskew challenges himself and other expert hunters to teach young people about those old days of hunting when the sport was more about the experience and less about the equipment. “After you spend some time in a boat with a heater, a radio and someone’s

Top: Urging his black Lab, Gus, on, Mike McDonough gives commands during training at Rend Lake. Middle: Tim Grounds tests a goose call he is assembling Oct. 5 at his workshop in Johnston City. Grounds has been crafting calls for decades and now operates his business with help from his son, Hunter Grounds. Left: Rick Eskew tosses out a decoy on Rend Lake prior to he and Mike McDonough training McDonough’s black Lab, Gus.

Life & Style : Winter 2010 23

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

cooking breakfast … you can get used to it,” Eskew said. “You almost forget where you came from. But that’s something you never want to forget.” One local business owner makes his living selling some of those luxury items to hunters. John Mann, owner of Mann and Sons Sporting Goods in Pinckneyville, says gear like long johns, thick coats and waterresistant boots have been flying off his shelves for months. Mann and Sons has been in business since 1946, and Mann says this time of year always brings a boom in customer spending. “It just depends on the weather,” Mann said. “Business really picks up once the weather cools down. People just don’t like to shop when it’s 101 degrees outside.” If the birds don’t show up, however, even the most extensive preparation won’t matter. “Once you’ve got everything you need, you’ve just got to pray for the ducks to come down,” Mann said. “I’ve seen it happen many times where the ducks start coming down, then a front pushes them away. Then some years the weather’s just right and there’s plenty of food and water for them. You just never know.”

recreation

slop

Provided by Thewallpapers.org

Taking to the

Colo., beckon eckenridge, ily-friendly. r B t a es op fam The sl re especially skiers and a 24 Life & Style : Winter 2010

‘Sun Valley, Idaho, is my favorite place to ski. Because of its remote location, there are virtually no lift lines. It’s like your own private Idaho. Their grooming is impeccable, and the vertical is huge!’

opes

PROVIDED

Jason Woodside, niche sales ma nager for The Southern Illinoisan and a Marion resident, Bald Mountain in Sun Valley, Ida takes a breather in front of ho.

Southern Illinoisans find a way to reach the mountains, here and abroad story by Les O’Dell photography provided

‘I like Snowmass a lot. You have long, cruising runs where you can ski top to bottom. For families with kids, I suggest Breckenridge. They’re very much into the hospitality of skiing.’ — David Coracy Carbondale

ven though they live in a region where the tallest peaks are listed in hundreds of feet, many Southern Illinoisans enjoy the thrill and beauty of downhill skiing. They just have to travel in order to do it. “Skiing is fairly popular with people in our area; probably more so among younger, more active people,” explains David Coracy of B&A Travel in Carbondale. He says even though an interest in skiing requires travel, avid downhillers can choose from slopes near and far. “There are a fair number of people who go over to Paoli Peaks in Indiana and other closer spots to ski. Those who are really into the sport are going to Colorado or other places out west,” he says. Regardless of where they ski, many area residents say the draw of the mountains and the rush of speeding downhill send them to the slopes year after year. Life & Style : Winter 2010 25

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

n ly.

— Jason Woodside Marion

“I hadn’t skied skied until I moved to Idaho in 2005,” explains Jason Woodside of Marion. “On the first day of ski season, I took a lesson and that was it. After that, I went to the top of the hill, fell all of the way down and slowly learned how to ski.” Once he mastered the sport, Woodside, who works at The Southern Illinoisan, says he skied at least twice each week from Thanksgiving through mid-April. Now that he’s moved back to Southern Illinois, he doesn’t ski as often but still plans a couple of ski trips each year. “I miss it a lot,” he says. “I used to live to ski. I did everything I could do to build my leg strength so that I could spend more time on the mountain.” Strength is not the only thing built on the slopes, says Jeanette Hudgins of Murphysboro. She and her husband, John, learned to ski 26 years ago when their college-aged sons took up the sport. She said over the years the couple have enjoyed the skiing but have enjoyed their skiing companions even more. “We have had so many wonderful life experiences from skiing, especially the friendships,” she explains. “It’s been wonderful, and we continue to have lots of lasting friendships with people we have met on ski trips.” Years ago, the Hudgins were part of a loose-knit group of skiers who formed the Southern Illinois Ski Club. Coracy, who also was part of the group, says dozens of

26 Life & Style : Winter 2010

John and Jeannette Hudgins of by their children and grandchildMurphysboro are joined ren for a mountain run in Breckenridge, Colo.

PROVIDED

the slopes is, pause on dale. ou L t. S f o ll on a l Miller, ve in Carb ney and Paus parents and sisters li in cK M y d in e’ Joe Racine, CItaly, in January. Racin , a n ti or C in

JONES BY BILLY

recreation

‘My favorite is Val D’Isere, France. It’s a 14th-century town, just tucked away. In the U.S., I like Telluride. I’d go there every year if I could.’

— Joe Racine St. Louis

Southern Illinoisans would travel together to ski. “We had as many as 90 or 100 going on trips at the same time,” Coracy says. “It was a big influence, and it’s always more fun to go with a group of people.” “There were many others who would join us,” adds Hudgins. “It was wonderful having all of these friends going skiing with us.” While the club has become inactive, much of the membership still takes to the slopes, although many now travel with their families. In fact, Hudgins says since learning to ski, her family has opted for ski trips. “We’ve gone every year since and never taken another warm vacation,” she says. Her children and grandchildren continue to join them for annual trips. “We rent a big house in Breckenridge — a really big house, eight bedrooms and eight baths,” she says. The couple have also skied overseas, joining other area enthusiasts on trips to Switzerland, Italy and France just for the skiing. Many of the trips are organized by St. Louis-based Gateway Ski Club. Club president and trip organizer Joe Racine says the trips have Southern Illinois roots. “I’ve been organizing ski trips of some kind for 22 years,” Racine says. “They all

started when I first learned to ski in the Southern Illinois Ski Club. It’s kind of surprising how many people from Southern Illinois join us.” Skiers including Woodside and Jeff Myers of Du Quoin look to skiing not as a group activity but as a family event. Myers says he enjoys teaching his children to ski on annual trips to Colorado. “I’ve been skiing since my parents took me when I was 6,” Myers says. “Now I can handle most of the slopes, and I’m trying to teach the kids how to do it.” Myers adds that he chooses where to ski based on conditions. “I mostly go for the snow and the slopes,” he says. “I don’t go for the nightlife or shopping. I go where the skiing is good.” He says he simply enjoys the skiing. “I love the mountains and being outside,” he says. “It’s a lot of fun, and I love the thrills.” Hudgins says skiing provides a one-of-akind release. “It’s all encompassing, and your mind is so free. It’s a great feeling to be on the mountain. Other people on the lift will say the same thing. It’s so relaxing; your mind just lets go, and the serenity you feel is unlike any other sport.”

‘The best place for instruction and a lot of variety in the slopes is Keystone. We’ve gone there the most.’

PROVIDED

— Jeanette Hudgins Murphysboro

‘My favorite ski area is Vail. It has a great variety of slopes, lots of lifts and fewer lines.’

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

This is the view skiers have high in the southern Alps, or the Dolomites, in northern Italy, where participants with Gateway Ski were earlier this year. The area is known for – in addition to great skiing – its scenery, accommodations, shops and the après-ski scene. Cortina, the main town in the region, was host to the 1956 Winter Olympics and has served as the backdrop for several famous movies, including 1963’s ‘The Pink Panther.’ Also shot there is one of the most memorable James Bond stunt sequences, in 1981’s ‘For Your Eyes Only,’ which featured gunners on spike-wheeled motorcycles chasing Roger Moore on skis. If you saw ‘Cliffhanger,’ you also saw harrowing scenes filmed here, too.

PROVIDED

Photo Provided by Gateway ski Club

— Jeff Myers Du Quoin

Jeff Myers of Du Quoin is joined

by friends while skiing in Colora

do.

Life & Style : Winter 2010 27

recreation Skiers with GSC spend time off the slopes in nearby cities and towns. This photo, taken by trip participant Billy Jones of Kansas City., Mo., was taken from the town of Muggia, Italy, looking across the water at Trieste, Italy.

PROVIDED BY BILLY JONES

group returns from Night falls on Trieste as the the Muggia excursion.

Ski Packages

Gateway Ski Club

For people interested in skiing Colorado, David Coracy, skier and owner of B&A Travel in Carbondale, put a few sample packages together for us. Here are a few to consider:

Joe Racine, president and organizer of Gateway Ski Club in St. Louis, began skiing with the Southern Illinois Ski Club. When that club went out of existence, Racine, whose parents and other relatives live in Carbondale and Marion, stayed in touch with people here who wanted to remain active in the ski world. “This year, we are going to return to one of the larger ski resorts in the world,” Racine says. “In my opinion, the French Alps offer the best skiing in the world, and La Plagne is one of the largest.” Here are some of the details for that trip:

BRECKENRIDGE Package includes: l Roundtrip airfare l Roundtrip airport/Breckenridge transfers l Five nights at Breckenridge Mountain Lodge, within walking distance of lifts l Keystone/Breckenridge lift ticket Cost: From $929 per person KEYSTONE Package includes: l Roundtrip airfare l Roundtrip airport/Keystone transfers l Five nights at The Forest Condominium, one-bedroom unit l Keystone/Breckenridge lift ticket Cost: From $979 per person VAIL Package includes: l Roundtrip airfare l Roundtrip airport/Vail transfer l Five nights Evergreen Lodge within walking distance of lifts l Vail/Beaver Creek lift ticket Cost: From $1,249 per person

28 Life & Style : Winter 2010

La Plagne, France When: Jan. 21-Feb. 2, 2011 Includes: Round-trip airfare from St. Louis and European transfers; 7 nights at the resort hotel, breakfast and evening meals Cost: Approximately $2,100; price based on Euro exchange rate, which could fluctuate 10 percent Lift tickets: A six-day all area pass is about $250, which would include a day at Meribel and Val D’Isere ski areas Paris option: For $450 more, adventurers can add a four-night stay in Paris, France, which includes transfer to Paris by TGV train, hotel, breakfast. Other side-trip options are available

The group’s ski-season finale is Lake Tahoe, Calif., which features skiing for Heavenly, Squaw Valley, North Star and Alpine Meadows. Lodging is at Harvey’s Casino Hotel Resort, which is kid-friendly. Here are the details for that trip:

Lake Tahoe, Calif. When: March 21-28, 2011 Includes: Hotel, breakfast, lift ticket, free shuttles Cost: Approximately $885 per person Airfare: In negotiation

For information on the Gateway Ski Club and its planned trips, call 314-280-2924 or e-mail jl.racine@sbcglobal.net or go to www.LifeandStyleSI.com for a link from this story.

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

he d d

. he

d

o

ail

Life & Style : Winter 2010 29

PROVIDED BY BILLY JONES

30 Life & Style : Winter 2010

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

Life & Style : Winter 2010 31

trends

‘100 Years of Helping You Say It All’ celebrates Hallmark’s centennial year with a light-up Christmas tree ornament that features icons telling the story of Hallmark’s past.

Above: Launa Maxton shows one of the many keepsake ornaments she has collected over the years.

Chuck Novara

Right: Maxton’s collection includes signed pieces from Hallmark.

Keeping

the

Keepsakes story by Claire Ploegman

Ornaments propel the adventures of Southern Illinois’ HoHoHo Club

Hallmark.com

32 Life & Style : Winter 2010

The eve of an event or holiday always brings excitement, and sleepless anticipation is a way of life for the HoHoHo Club, a group of cheerful, local collectors that gets the Christmas feeling midsummer. A July premiere of Keepsake Ornaments is the first in an annual drum roll of in-store events at Kirlin’s Hallmark Gold Crown in University Mall. Lines of collectors gather at the storefront for follow-up unveilings in October and November, when the neighboring Gloria Jean’s shop swaps July’s coconut

we’d all get ready again, and here he’d come. And we kept thinking, ‘Now, what is the deal here?’� Maxton remembers. The mystery man turned out to be Maxine’s inventor, contractually obligated to smile in impromptu portraits. When the HoHoHo Club returned another year for a Maxine ornament signing, the jolted cartoonist exclaimed, “Oh, I remember you!� saying with a laugh that he frequently tells the story of their ditch and dodge. Though Dickens’ original Scrooge makes Maxine look meek, it is his turnaround that endures: “I will honor Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all the year.� The HoHoHo Club “keeps Christmas� yearround, planning good works at monthly suppers and taking their prizes at Du Quoin’s Holiday Lights in stride. “We’ve won first, second or third place every year we’ve been in it,� says Maxton,

smiling. “Actually, we’ve been very fortunate.� Good fortune abounds in Southern Illinois when the women use their resources for charity, whether supporting the family of a mother deployed to the Middle East or supplying a tracking bracelet for an Alzheimer’s patient. Fox donates door prizes for the club’s charitable raffles. This year, the women met an inter-club challenge to raise $100 for cancer relief in honor of Hallmark’s 100th anniversary, aptly commemorated with a mint-colored Christmas-tree ornament. Come Christmas Eve, each collector presumably gets her best night’s sleep of the year, lulled by the success emblematized in a glowing tree, intricately clad in combinations of meaningful, memorable ornaments. For a moment, the group quest lies still until 2011 chimes.

*ORULRXV *DODV

&R]\ *DWKHULQJV %ULQJ \RXU HYHQW WR OLIH DW WKH &DUERQGDOH &LYLF &HQWHU 2IIHULQJ WKH ODWHVW LQ VWDWH RI WKH DUW VHUYLFHV DOORZLQJ \RX WR FRQGXFW VXFFHVVIXO DQG HIILFLHQW PHHWLQJV DORQJ ZLWK HORTXHQW DQG EHDXWLIXO UHFHSWLRQV :KDWHYHU \RXU RFFDVLRQ ZH KDYH WKH VSDFH \RX QHHG %RRN E\ -DQ VW 6DYH E\ PHQWLRQLQJ WKLV DG

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

es

Hung up on ornaments? Find out how to become a collector by going to www.LifeandStyleSI.com for more information and local clubs.

Photographer

iced coffees for pumpkin lattes, still weeks away from mending the charming seasonal confusion with peppermint mochas. Store Manager Lois Fox outfits the 2010 staff with festive bakers’ aprons to commemorate the release of a poinsettiatopped cupcake, the first ornament in a series called Christmas Cupcakes. “Firstsâ€? are one reason for the thriceannual lines outside the store. “Whether you think you’re going to want the series or not, you always have to purchase the first one, just in case,â€? explains Luana Maxton, president of the HoHoHo Club. The joy of collecting, as well as the joy of secondary market value (another story in itself), rests in completion. But more than a merry string of syllables, “HoHoHoâ€? is an acronym in standing for Home Of Hallmark Ornament Hunters Organization. From the charter members in Du Quoin to the faithfuls in De Soto, Carbondale, Pinckneyville and Nashville, every member also carries a card for the national Keepsake Ornament Club, an affiliation that puts a special edition Dream Book, or colorful showcase catalog, in each of their hands. The local group has been at it for 18 years. “Well, I’ve been collecting ornaments for much longer than that,â€? interjects Maxton, adding that she owns close to 2,500 Hallmark ornaments. Revolving tree stands show off her six trees of pure Hallmark dĂŠcor. “See, I have one from the very first year Hallmark started making ornaments,â€? or 1973, explains Maxton. Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments never resemble the dime-a-dozen orbs that dangle from wire hooks. The artistic ornaments feature a range of interests, from figurines of Charlie Brown and Jack Skellington to miniatures of historic homes and model trains. Maxton’s silver and pewter ornaments are only available at Hallmark conventions and are points of pride since she has attended every convention to date, 19 in all. The club’s convention field trips make memories equal to those that flurry while unpacking boxes of ornaments. Maxine, the cantankerous cartoon that trudges across popular Hallmark greeting cards, zinging spryer folk with her words, made a real-life appearance to pose with convention goers. “So we all got around, and then all of the sudden this man comes in, and so we didn’t take the picture. And he’d walk away, and

6 ,OOLQRLV $YH &DUERQGDOH ,/ FYFHQWHU#FL FDUERQGDOH LO XV

Life & Style : Winter 2010 33

quick hits

Let it snow, globe Santa looks into a snow globe in this vintage version produced in the 1950s in Germany.

PHOTO BY LARRY D. MOORE / WIKIPEDIA

34 Life & Style : Winter 2010

For many people, the holidays wouldn’t be the same without a snow globe, and that’s been the case for many years. My favorite is one my nephew, Brad Gustave, gave me years ago for Christmas. Encased in the solid glass globe is Frosty and his friends. It’s a musical globe, and it will forever remind me of Brad’s boyish Christmas request: “Let’s sing Fwosty, let’s swing Fwosty,” he would squeal. The globe is always on my paino every year for the holidays, and I actually play the tune almost every time I walk by. The snow globe made its first official appearance at the Paris Universal Expo of 1878. In the United States, Joseph Garaja of Pittsburgh, was the first to receive a globe-related patent in the early 1900s. It didn’t take long for advertising and marketing types to realize it was a great little novelty to promote businesses, and, throughout the 1940s, were given away as freebies by banks and other companies. Today, you can find all kinds of snow globes, including plastic, mass-produced versions from China to the finely crafted glass globes being produced in Europe, particularly Germany.

Here are some interesting movie and TV references relating to snow globes: • In the opening of the film “Citizen Kane,” Charles Foster Kane (Orson Welles) drops a snow globe as he dies. • Richard Gere’s character kills his wife’s lover with a snow globe in the movie “Unfaithful.” • In the 1994 Disney film “The Santa Clause,” Bernard (David Krumholtz), the head elf, gives Charlie (Eric Loyd) a magical snow globe with an animated North Pole scene inside that allows him to see his father, Scott Calvin/Santa Claus (Tim Allen) anytime he wants. The snow globe is the link to his trip to the North Pole confirming it was not a dream. • In Miami Vice, Switek finds out only after his partner Zito’s death that he collected snow globes, making the former realize that perhaps they did not know each other so well. • One opening sequence of “The Simpsons” features the family in a snow globe. A number of episodes also feature snow globes, mainly parodying the Rosebud scene in Citizen Kane. — Cara Recine / Wikipedia

MAY THE

Joys of the Season BE WITH YOU.

Hours:

TUES-FRI 9-5 SATURDAY 9-3

PIANO & ORGAN CENTER

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

HERRIN, ILLINOIS

(618) 942-5115 WWW.BALDWINOFHERRIN.COM

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

DURING THE HOLIDAYS, WE LIKE TO TAKE A MOMENT TO THANK THOSE WHO MATTER MOST: OUR CUSTOMERS — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.

Life & Style : Winter 2010 35

entertainment

A

strong

Murphysboro’s Liberty Theater retains its history, remains a draw

showing story by Brent Stewart

or almost 100 years, the Liberty Theater has been Murphysboro’s window to the world. In its seats, generations have been able to travel to distant lands, meet interesting characters and see into the past and the future, from the wild west to a galaxy far away. In these days of multiplexes with high-definition, surround sound, amphitheater seating and 3-D and more advanced theater experiences like the IMAX or OMNIMAX, the Liberty is a relic of a nearly forgotten era. Although you’re usually able to catch one of the “Star Wars” movies there once or twice a year, you won’t see a movie at the Liberty that was released in the last 20 years. In fact, some of their more popular showings are the silent films of Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin. The Liberty is far from modern. And that’s just the way many people — not just in Murphysboro but throughout Southern Illinois — like it.

History and rebirth

Originally built as the Tilford Theater in 1913, the Liberty was always a venue for motion pictures. It has been around

36 Life & Style : Winter 2010

long enough to have shown just about every classic film from every era of American cinema. Murphysboro has had several theaters throughout its existence, most notably the Hippodrome, owned by the Marlow family. For years, the Hippodrome stood alongside the Liberty as the two pillars of entertainment in the community, until the Hippodrome closed and was torn down in the 1970s. The Liberty continued on as the one theater left in Murphysboro until its closure in 1998. Throughout the years, ownership changed hands several times. The Liberty’s last for-profit owner was the Kerasotes family, who at the time ran a large chain of theaters, including those in Carbondale and Marion. In 2001, the Kerosotes family sold the Liberty building to the city of Murphysboro for the cost of one year’s property taxes. The city then sold it to Murphysboro Main Street for $1.

A new lease on life

Unlike the Varsity Theater in Carbondale, which sat empty for many years before being handed in a similar fashion to the city of Carbondale and then became The Varsity Center for

Aurelien Perillot plays the viola during a chamber music performance, which was part of the Southern Illinois Music Festival in June.

A multipurpose room

The Liberty seats 300, and its size and design make it a perfect venue for live performances. Musician Mark Stoffel has played for a packed audience at the theater on many occasions, most notably at an annual Christmas concert with singer-

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

THE SOUTHErn Illinoisan

Opposite: The Liberty Theater in downtown Murphysboro.

the Arts and home to The Stage Co., the Liberty was closed for a short period and was still in reasonably good shape. When Murphysboro Main Street acquired the building, there wasn’t much work needed to reopen. A bigger stage was constructed, and lighting was added. Some of the stage lights are from the old Kiel Auditorium in St. Louis. Unlike the previous 88 years of its existence, the Liberty became a true theater, not just a movie house. “We wanted to provide more than movies,” said Lois Murphy, president of the Liberty’s governing board. “We do concerts, fundraisers, live theater, seminars and any type of family entertainment we can.” In 2009, as Murphysboro Main Street was reorganized, the Liberty began the process of operating as a separate nonprofit entity with its own governing board. Murphy said the restructuring will help in securing grants for structural work for the building. She hopes to raise money and secure grants to put a new roof on the theater and also add bathroom and dressing-room space at the rear of the building. Ultimately, she has the goal of restoring the theater completely to its look in the 1920s.

Life & Style : Winter 2010 37

songwriter Nathan Clark George. That event yearly packs the Liberty over two nights. “It’s a great place,” Stoffel said. “It has a rich history that’s reflected in its design.” Stoffel, a renowned mandolin and fiddle player, has performed at many venues in Southern Illinois, from bars to wineries. The Liberty, Stoffel said, offers music lovers something unique. “People can’t help but look forward and listen,” he said. “I’ve never seen anyone leave without really enjoying themselves.” The theater has even been the site for two weddings, with a third soon to follow. Casey and Celia Raymer were married at the Liberty in May 2009. The idea was the suggestion of Celia’s mother because it was two doors down from the Murphysboro Event Center, where the couple had already planned to have the reception. Although the couple aren’t exactly “movie buffs,” the idea of the theater was so unique they incorporated the theme into the ceremony. “Movie posters” featuring the couple were placed outside the theater, and guests were offered popcorn on their way in.

Holiday Gifts From Head To Toe. Exclusively from S.I. Dermatology and DermaCare

THE SOUTHErn Illinoisan

entertainment

A montage of photos from throughout the pair’s lives was made to look like an old slide show and was projected on the movie screen before the wedding. “I thought it was great,” Celia said. “It was a lot of fun.”

A local landmark

One of the most important aspects of the Liberty is the continuity of history it provides the community. Into the mid-1980s, Murphysboro’s downtown was once a bustling area of commerce. Going further back, the streets were lined with ornate brick buildings that

Southern Illinois Dermatology is proudly offering

Laser Hair Removal LightSheer™ diode laser is the most advanced treatment for effective removal of unwanted hair. Call 618-942-3344 to schedule a free consultation with a specialist. More than one treatment will be necessary to achieve the best result so you should start NOW as some treatments can take several months to complete.

11 locations throughout Southern Illinois.

vanackerdermatology.com

DermaCare Holiday Offers FREE Make-Up Application Limit 1 Per Person With this coupon. Not valid with any other offer.

60

$

Bare Escentuals Starter Kit with this coupon.

Not valid with any other offer.

Herrin

618-988-1868 Murphysboro

618-565-1212 dermacareonline.net

38 Life & Style : Winter 2010

Lois Murphy, president of the Liberty Theater board, shows off some of the renovations done to the interior of the Murphysboro theater.

gave the town a sense of character and pride. These days, its landscape is virtually unrecognizable from 50 years ago. Many buildings have fallen victim to fire or have been torn down to make way for parking lots or more modern structures. The Liberty Theater has been the one constant in Murphysboro throughout the decades. It’s been doing the same thing in the same location all these years. It was traditionally the Friday night “hangout” for generations of teenagers, up to its closure as a first-run theater in 1998. Michael Jones, director of the General John A. Logan Museum in Murphysboro, was one local resident who has enjoyed films at the venue his entire life. “I think it’s wonderful,” Jones said. “I think it adds to the cultural aspects of the community. It’s underappreciated. I know I don’t go there as much as I should, but you know, we all have busy lives. I saw ‘The Maltese Falcon’ there recently, and it was awesome to see it up there on the big screen. I love those old movies on the big screen.” Jones credited Murphy as the driving force behind the preservation of the theater. On any night it is open, you’ll see her behind the ticket counter, greeting those who arrive. It’s a family affair for her as well. Her husband, Bill, often serves popcorn and soda, and he is usually the one on the ladder, changing the letters on the marquee. Murphy takes her business at the Liberty seriously because of its importance to the community. “We’ve got to save some of this old stuff in Murphysboro, especially downtown,” Murphy said. “It’s important to keep it here and keep it going, for the people.” BRENT STEWART is a professional writer and raconteur whose writing has appeared in The Southern, Flipside, Nightlife, SI Magazine, Southern Illinois Health and Life and Life and Style in Southern Illinois. He is also an accomplished singer-songwriter. He lives in a Hobbit House in Murphysboro and has one niece, Landrie.

Deck the halls with a holiday show! The Liberty Theater hosts its annual Christmas concert featuring Nathan Clark George and Mark Stoffel at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 17 and Saturday, Dec. 18. Here’s a sampling of other venues across the region hosting holiday events.

John A. Logan College “A Dickens Dinner,” dinner theatre featuring JALC Choral and Chamber Ensembles, 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 10 and Saturday Dec. 11; for more information, go to www.jalc.edu. Marion Cultural and Civic Center Paradise Alley Players presents “White Christmas,” 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Dec. 3, 4 and 5. Five By Design presents “Radio Hollydays,” a 1940s radio Christmas show featuring a 13-piece big band, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 7. “Newsong’s Very Merry Christmas Tour” featuring Newsong Newsboys and Kerrie Roberts, 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9 and Friday, Dec. 10.

Rend Lake College Christmas concert, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 30. Madrigal dinner, 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 3 and Saturday, Dec. 4 and 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5. For more information, go to www.rlc.edu. Shryock Auditorium Oak Ridge Boys holiday concert, 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 12. For more information, visit SouthernLightsEntertainment.com. The Southern Illinois Symphony Orchestra and the Willow Street Dance Company present Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Ballet,” 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 18 and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 19. For more information, go to symphony.siu.edu. Southeastern Illinois College Madrigal feast, 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 3 and 4 and 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5. SIC Dept. of Music presents “The Messiah,” 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 12. For more information, go to www.sic.edu.

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

Cedarhurst Center for the Arts Holiday Night Out at Cedarhurst, a holiday-spirited event with food, wine, and music, 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4. Cedarhurst School of Performing Arts presents “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas,” 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 6. For more information go to www.cedarhurst.org.

Life & Style : Winter 2010 39

profile

Flyin’

high

with hockey

Retired pilot gets Ohio NHL team where they need to be story by Adam Testa Dick Sanders doesn’t like to ice skate, let alone play hockey. And when it comes to the sport, he’s never been much of a fan. While working as a U.S. Air pilot out of Pennsylvania, he attended two or three Pittsburgh Penguins games but never followed the sport. That all changed in 2001, when the Southern Illinois native received a call from the front office of the Columbus (Ohio) Blue Jackets asking if he’d be interesting in applying for a position as the team’s official pilot. “It’s really fun,” said Sanders, a retired Air Force lieutenant colonel and airline captain who now lives at Lake of Egypt. “I love it. I love the flying. It’s the best flying I’ve ever done.” Flying planes – especially one carrying a hockey team –

never even crossed Sanders’ mind during his youth. A 1957 graduate of Johnston City High School, Sanders studied mathematics and physics at Southern Illinois University Carbondale with intentions of entering the educational arena. Interested in joining in the military, Sanders sought out information from the Air Force and learned he’d be eligible to fly. After earning his degree from SIUC in 1961, he enlisted and served seven years active duty and 21 years in the reserve. He later found employment as a pilot for TWA and U.S. Air, from which he retired in 2000 after a 16-year career. Through the years, however, Sanders has been able to explore other facets of professional life. While laid off from TWA, he spent time doing what he’d originally intended and teaching. He also enjoyed a three-year stint flying for Project Partner, a mission-based organization operating in Central America and the Caribbean. In 2000, at age 60, Sanders hit the end of the road with the airline industry, which

a

k uc

r va No

Ch

Dick Sanders of Marion is the team pilot for the Columbus Blue Jackets of the National Hockey League. The team logo is above.

40 Life & Style : Winter 2010

This opportunity has changed Sanders’ life. He now enjoys watching hockey, especially live rather than on television; he’s gained a new appreciation for hardworking athletes; he’s looked behind the fan curtain of professional sports; and he’s met – and lost – several close friends. “It’s really been enlightening about what goes on behind the scenes in professional sports,” he said. “You find that producing the winning team is what counts. You really get

acquainted with the players and become friends with them, but they may be traded. If that person doesn’t fill the slot they’re in, management has to try something new.” And the players Sanders associates with don’t necessarily fit the stereotypical athlete bill. Headlines are often

dominated by the debauchery and arrogance of top players in other sports leagues, but Sanders said he sees little of that from hockey players. “They’re always gentlemen,” he said. “They’re the nicest guys you can ever imagine until they get on the ice. Then they become animals.”

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

mandates retirement at that age. He enjoyed RV-ing and the general relaxation that comes with retirement for the better part of the next year, until he received the call from the hockey franchise looking for an experienced aviator to fly the team’s new DC-9 aircraft. The Blue Jackets came on the National Hockey League scene in 2000 as an expansion team, and for the first year, team management contracted with a charter flight company for game-day travel plans. But after a series of delays and problems, team management opted to purchase a refurbished plane and take control.

Chuck Novara

On Sanders’ desk are models of a few of the planes he has flown during his career as a military and private pilot.

Life & Style : Winter 2010 41

cheers to beer

Many holiday beers, like Brouwerij De Smedt’s Affligem Noël, have their own unique glassware designed to highlight both appearance and aroma. Enthusiasts of Belgian ales, in particular, look at the art of beer drinking as a complete sensory experience.

Holidays in a bottle

story and photography by Shawn Connelly Like an eager child on Christmas Eve waiting to hear Santa on the rooftop, craft beer lovers have come to anticipate the arrival of special seasonal beers specifically brewed for the winter holidays. Watching and waiting with unrestrained enthusiasm for the festively adorned bottles to appear in stores, devotees snatch up these limited-edition ales and lagers like they were the hottest new toy of the season. So why all the fuss? For one reason, holiday beers — many of which are brewed in very small quantities only once each year — represent a welcome departure from the lighter, easy-drinking styles that compliment warmer weather. While the availability of Märzen and pumpkin beers helps to slowly acclimate the palate toward

42 Life & Style : Winter 2010

richer, maltier flavors as the season changes, holiday beers are an occasion to showcase the decadent side of the brewer’s art. The richest, most lavish beer styles are reserved for this time of year, and they’re replete with all the sensory splendor of the season. Generally higher in alcohol and richer in body than year-round beers, holiday seasonals embody the spirit and expression of yuletide cheer in appearance, aroma and flavor. Many of these special beers are labeled as “winter warmers,” maltforward ales typically brewed with spices like cinnamon, clove, nutmeg and ginger, making them what some have dubbed “Christmas in a bottle.” In fact, the tradition of brewing a special ale to commemorate the season has been around a long, long time. In pagan culture, beer was brewed to mark the winter solstice,

Specialty beers find a place in seasonal celebrations

while special ales were also produced by the church-controlled monastery breweries since the Middle Ages. Several such monastic orders, most of which are in Belgium, still produce special, particularly strong ales intended to commemorate the birth of Christ. Contemporary craft brewers throughout the world have taken this age-old tradition and adapted it for the modern consumer, creating a myriad of holiday-themed ales and lagers to please every tradition and taste. In Southern Illinois, these special craft beers were a rarity just a couple of years ago. Limited distribution to this part of the state, along with a general lack of widespread retail interest, meant that only a few of the more ubiquitous holiday beers ever made it to regional retailers’ shelves. Consumers could find Samuel Adams’ Holiday Porter

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

if they were lucky, or maybe Schlafly’s Christmas Ale, but little else. Local beer aficionados were forced to travel outside the area or plead with visiting friends or family to import in many of the best beers of Christmas. Since that time, however, expanded distribution and a growing interest and demand for craft and specialty beers has turned things around drastically. Like Ebenezer Scrooge’s own revelation, Southern Illinoisans have had a change of heart and, it seems, gained a taste for better beer. Beer styles change with the seasons, just like the turning of a leaf. Beers with lighter body and more subtle flavors dominate the spring and summer months, while darker, more robust styles arrive along with the fall and winter. Pilsners and wheat ales give way to porters and winter warmers as the season and our taste preferences change. The Brewers Association currently recognizes 140 different styles of beer, and that list grows each year. While there are a handful of styles that are most commonly associated with winter and holiday seasonals, any beer style can technically be brewed as a holiday beer. The moniker “holiday beer,” therefore, is less a description of a style as it is a recognition of the spirit and intent for which the particular beer was brewed. Some of the most common beer styles available during the holidays include barleywines, doppelbocks, imperial stouts, old ales and winter warmers. The vast majority of holiday beers tend to be ales rather than lagers, since ales generally have cleaner flavor profiles that are better suited for the warmer seasons and spice additions would easily overpower the beer. One notable exception is a lager brewed by Brauerei Schloss Eggenberg in Austria since the 14th century known as Samichlaus Bier (Santa Claus in Swiss German), an incredibly malty doppelbock that rivals wine in strength at 14 percent alcohol by volume. If one is intrigued by these festive beers and would like to try a few or give them as gifts during the holidays, here’s my recommendation for several notable examples that are available locally. If you don’t see them on your favorite retailer’s shelves, you might try asking for them. If your retailer doesn’t carry the beer, they can likely order it for you. Remember, the holiday season is about enjoying the blessings we have with

Life & Style : Winter 2010 43

cheers to beer

‘Wassail! Wassail! all over the town. Our bread is white, and our ale is brown; our bowl is made of the maplin tree, so here, my good fellow, I’ll drink to thee!’ — a traditional English carol, Author unknown

Belgian brewers also enjoy incorporating some humor into their brew by using colorful artwork to represent the brewery or the beer itself. A ‘chouffe’ — a gnome-like creature — adorns this bottle of Brasserie d’Achouffe’s N’ice Chouffe, a dark, strong ale from this small artisan brewery in the Wallonian region of Belgium.

family and friends. What better way to be reminded of these blessings than with a nice, festive beer designed expressly for that purpose! Eat, drink and be merry, of course, but be sure to do it responsibly. These beers are stronger than you might be accustomed to drinking, so it’s an ideal time to opt for quality over quantity in your beer this holiday season! Recommended holiday beers available in Southern Illinois: Anchor “Our Special Ale” (Christmas Ale) — California — The exact recipe for this beer changes every year, so it’s impossible to predict what Anchor will brew this year. Consider it a Christmas surprise. This beer may be available in limited quantities on draught this year, too, or so Santa tells me. Bell’s Christmas Ale — Michigan — (5.5% alcohol by volume) A holiday seasonal that accentuates sweet malt character and spicy hops. This one is rare in that Bell’s doesn’t use any spices in this beer. If you like malty beers, like Scottish ales, this may be the holiday brew for you. Brasserie de Achouffe N’Ice Chouffe — Belgium — (10% ABV) A Belgian dark, strong ale brewed with thyme and curacao. The Belgians make some of the most complex and unusual ales in the world and this one is no exception. Expect notes of dark tree fruit and spices with a hint of bitter citrus. Brouwerij Huyghe Delirium Noel — Belgium — (10% ABV) Another Belgian dark, strong ale that relies on darkly malted

44 Life & Style : Winter 2010

grains, fruity Belgian yeast and a unique sugar derived from beets called ‘candi sugar’ to produce a rich, slightly sweet ale that is worth seeking out. Jolly Pumpkin Noel de Calabaza — Michigan — (9% ABV) Brewed in the Belgian tradition, this strong ale is replete with fruit, caramel-like malt and a pleasing sourness imparted by wild yeast and bacteria in the oak this beer is aged in before bottling. An acquired taste for some, a delight to others. Norrebro Bryghus Julebryg — Norway — (7% ABV) A Norwegian craft beer brewed with barley, wheat and rye along with various holiday spices. The bready malts and spices make this particular beer reminiscent of gingerbread. Ridgeway Brewing Company — United Kingdom — Ridgeway Brewing makes a series of holiday-themed beers that are worth a try for the off-the-wall, and sometimes a little off-color, label art alone. Look for beers like “Very Bad Elf” an English pale ale, “Lump of Coal,” a stout, or “Santa’s Butt,” an English porter that gets its name from a particularly large barrel historically used in beer brewing in England. Samuel Smith’s Winter Welcome — United Kingdom — (6% ABV) A classic English winter warmer that accentuates caramel malts and lightly roasted grains, creating a warm, bready ale that’s great with a rich holiday dinner. Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale — California — (6.8% ABV) One of the few

India pale ales on the holiday beer wish list, this is a terrific American-style IPA with aggressive hops that highlight citrus and pine-like notes. Do you like a little Christmas tree in your beer? Spoetzl (Shiner) Holiday Cheer — Texas — (5.4% ABV) From the makers of Shiner Bock, a dark wheat ale brewed with real Texas peaches and pecans. This has become a personal favorite during the holidays and is lower in alcohol than many holiday beers without sacrificing flavor. Unibroue Quelque Chose — Canada — (8% ABV) A fruit beer brewed with cherries and intended to be served hot like a mulled cider or wassail. Intense sour cherry flavors are balanced by sweet malt, creating a cherry pie-like ale perfectly fit for the holidays. SHAWN CONNELLY is best known for authoring ‘Style Studies’ – a regular feature on world beer styles in the nationallydistributed Beer Connoisseur Magazine. Shawn is also a craft and specialty beer retail consultant and event host, who has introduced countless Southern Illinoisans to better beer over the last several years. Shawn is also an award-winning home brewer. You can follow Shawn on his blog at www. beerphilosopher.com Connelly

Beer evolution: Special bottling technique changes taste

That’s not Champagne in that bottle! The wire cage and cork, like the one on this bottle of Brouwerij Het Anker Gouden Carolus Cuveé Van De Keizer Blauw (Grand Cru of the Emperor), is designed to keep the CO2 pressure from popping the cork off while the beer is cellaring. In this case, the layer of dust on the cap is an indication of a bottle that’s been cellaring since 2007.

Serving these beers slightly warmer helps to enhance the aroma and flavor nuances in the beer and maximize your enjoyment of it the way the brewer intended. Drinking one of these beers colder isn’t bad, per se, but it will limit your ability to fully appreciate the depth and complexity of the beer. Cheers!

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

You might observe several seasonal beers on retailers’ shelves that are packaged in bottles that look a lot more like champagne than they do beer. These beers, complete with cork and wire cage, are generally beers that are brewed to undergo a process called bottle conditioning. Bottle conditioning is a technique that some breweries use to add additional character and complexity to their beer after it’s been bottled. While most beers are filtered and pasteurized to prolong their shelf life and kill any living yeast that may be in the beer, bottle conditioned beers are intentionally unfiltered and undergo no pasteurization process. Therefore, live yeast continues to produce a “secondary fermentation” inside the bottle, causing the beer to evolve in flavor and character over time. The longer the beer is aged (cellared), the more it will change, not at all unlike wine. The cork and cage are used to prevent the increased pressure in the bottle from popping off the cork or cap due to the additional carbon dioxide that results from the yeast consuming the residual sugars in the beer. Most of these special beers, which are often 8 percent alcohol by volume or higher, can be cellared for years under the proper conditions. Like wine, again, some aficionados will collect various “vintages” of the same beer to explore the varying characteristics the beer will develop over consecutive years. In formal tasting circles, this is known as a vertical tasting. A combination of the higher-than-average alcohol content and the presence of live yeast give these beers the longevity needed to spend extended time in the cellar and several consecutive years’ beers can be collected, that is if the collector has the will power to leave the bottles alone for that long. Unlike wine, bottle-conditioned beers typically packaged in 750 milliliter “champagne” bottles should be cellared upright rather than on their side, so that the yeast and other sediment in the beer will settle to the bottom and remain there. The sediment isn’t harmful to consume, but most beer styles call for any sediment to remain in the bottle. Therefore, careful decanting into a style-appropriate glass is important so the sediment isn’t disrupted and the appearance and flavor of the beer altered. A final note on bottle-conditioned beers most of them are brewed to enjoy at cellar temperature rather than the cold temperatures at which most beers are consumed. Cellar temperatures will typically range between 50 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Life & Style : Winter 2010 45

quick hits

To see more of these Champagne flutes and all Waterford crystal, go to www.LifeandStyleSI.com.

Raise a glass to glassware It might seem an extravagance, but if you’ve ever been to a holiday dinner where the table is adorned with Waterford crystal, you understand just how beautiful it can be. And when it comes to crystal, Waterford is one of the best and most sought after. Established in 1783, this company’s crystal is cherished around the world for its craftsmanship and artistry. Each piece is still mouth-blown and handcrafted. It is

so highly regarded that often Waterford is a customary gift among royals and heads of state. Why shouldn’t you have a piece of that? One of Waterford’s most famous and collectible items is a series of Champagne flutes: The 12 Days of Christmas collection. Each flute features hand-cut representations of the 12 days: Golden rings, turtles doves and, of course, a partridge in a pear tree.

)XUQLWXUH ‡ *LIWV 'UDSHULHV ‡ )ORRULQJ $FFHVVRULHV (DVW 2XWHU 'ULYH 0DULRQ ‡ ZZZ GLVWLQFWLYHLQWHULRUV LQIR 0RQ )UL DP SP ‡ 6DW DP SP ‡ 6XQ SP SP 46 Life & Style : Winter 2010

New this year are Nine Ladies Dancing and Ten Lords-a-Leaping. Especially stunning is a full set of crimson-tinged flutes in the same series. This is the final year the company will issue the crimson glassware. A complete set, with a hand-crafted wooden storage chest, retails for $1,400. Individual flutes outside the crimson set can be found anywhere from $65 to $85 each. — Cara Recine

0RQ 6DW 6XQ

)RUPDQ /DQH ‡ %HONQDS ,/ ZZZ FUEZLQHU\ FRP

6HUYLQJ 6RXWKHUQ ,OOLQRLV IRU RYHU <HDUV

4XDOLW\ -HZHOU\ +RQHVW 'HSHQGDEOH 6HUYLFH (YHU\GD\ /RZ 3ULFHV

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

§:H %X\ *ROG¨

0RUH 7KDQ -XVW D -HZHOU\ 6WRUH

5RXWH &DUWHUYLOOH

+RXUV 0RQ )UL ‡ 6DW Life & Style : Winter 2010 47

where we live

A

Dream House of a

story by Claire Ploegman photography by Steve Jahnke

or many years, Mike and Phyllis Dover’s thoughtfully fashioned home has been just that — a thought, or as Phyllis calls it, a dream. As few as 10 years ago, the dream seemed content to live in a frame on the wall. “My grandkids were spending the night one night, and Kalli asked me, ‘Grammy, what’s that picture?’” explains Phyllis. The picture is one of nearly a dozen prints by painter Thomas Kinkade that the Dovers display. “I said, ‘Well, that’s my dream home,’” Phyllis says, beaming. In 2005, the Dovers moved from their modest Harrisburg home of 30 years for the brick peaks of their neo-colonial house in Marion. “I dreamed a long time of a dream home, and I never thought that it would ever come to fruition,” Phyllis explains. “I just had little things that I thought, ‘Oh, I’d like to do that,’ and so it all happened.” One dreamed-of detail is the fringe-draped bay window that sets off the cherry dining set. After a fine meal, family members can ease back from the table — once cramped in the Dover’s old house — for ample breathing room. Then there’s the airy entryway staircase of white painted risers with cherry treading, which leads to the office lofted above the dining room.

48 Life & Style : Winter 2010

Mike and Phyllis Dover bring years of ideas and interests under one roof The music room, which Phyllis designed to accommodate her prized Disklavier player piano, is illuminated by a Waterford chandelier, equal parts brass and glinting crystal, with a twin over the dining table. Several times a year, Phyllis’s father entertains his great-grandchildren by brushing the tune to “Happy Birthday” across the strings of his fiddle. According to Phyllis, the music keeps him young, even at 92. The semi-formal TV room has a relaxed feel, with suede pillows on a boxy, structured couch upholstered with sparsely flecked cowhide. The opposite mantels of the double-sided, seethrough fireplace showcase a pair of Kinkade prints depicting the facade and back gardens of a house dubbed Spring Gate. The former hangs above the mantle in the TV room, and the latter graces the sunroom side. Other dreamy details predate Phyllis’s home ownership altogether. Phyllis chose Kinkade’s “Victorian Christmas IV” because the rendered white frame house sidled up to an old-time busy street, resembling her childhood home in Cave-In-Rock. “As a little girl I lived right there on the main road across from the funeral home,” explains

Mike and Phyllis Dover live in this spacious three-level home near Marion. Opposite: The entrance to the house has high ceilings and a wooden staircase that leads to an upstairs loft office.

‘I dreamed a long time of a dream home, and I never thought that it would ever come to fruition.’ — Phyllis Dover

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

Life & Style : Winter 2010 49

where we live

Mike and Pyllis Dover’s sitting room features a Yamaha piano, a large bay window and a chandelier that has a twin in the dining room. Inset right: The kitchen is adorned with fall decorations.

Phyllis, who is still close friends with the neighbor girl of those bygone days. Checking off another item on her dream list, Phyllis bordered the patio with a gated, wrought-iron fence, which she found while antiquing in Elizabethtown, Ky. Phyllis had always loved a similar fence that lined the lawn next door in Cave-In-Rock. Living life a little longer has given Phyllis some ideas on how a house should run day-to-day. A square hallway is the compass of the home, its round, patterned rug surrounded by doors to the three-car garage, dining room, kitchen, powder room and cherrypaneled elevator complete with embellished necessities like lit buttons, brass hand rails and a telephone. A grandfather clock presides over comings and goings.

50 Life & Style : Winter 2010

“I didn’t want to come in to a laundry room or a little hallway. I wanted it to look nice, because a lot of people come through the back door,” Phyllis says. A second door inside the powder room links to the laundry room, which opens into a walk-in closet connected to the master bathroom, complete with a cushioned ottoman and a corner tub flanked by columns. Phyllis devised the flow of rooms so her husband could go straight to the laundry after being on site with the couple’s construction company, Mike Dover Corp.

The adjoining doors end at the master bedroom, which opens into the square hall where it all began. The well-equipped kitchen preempts clutter that would interrupt its grandeur. Smaller, daily appliances sit on a roll-out tabletop stored inside a cabinet with interior outlets. A warming drawer on the way to the dining room makes entertaining easy and features three chaffing dishes. Beveled Corian countertops by Dinger

“It looks like grass, and he sticks tees into it,” Phyllis says. Near the surround-sound entertainment center, a panoramic original painting depicts Mike’s birdie on hole seven at Pebble Beach, Calif. Barb Allen, an art teacher in Harrisburg who earned Illinois teacher of the year in 1996, painted the exact location of the ball, pin-bound on a green showered by sea spray. Each print and painting throughout the house reminds Mike and Phyllis of important moments, but two other collections speak their hearts to a greater degree. Framed plaques featuring Bible quotations are most prominently displayed, not on the walls, but upon large easels that sit low to the floors, guiding their steps through the house. One reads, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth,” a statement that is happily fulfilled by the other valued collection, a series of portraits. Mike and Phyllis’s house is now the usual backdrop for the Dovers’ fourgeneration family pictures, a Christmastime tradition that shows the dream house is a home come true.

The master bedroom has a fireplace and an intricate wooden bed frame. Inset left: The bathroom off the master bedroom contains a jacuzzi tub and sitting area. Inset right: Mike Dover has a painting of his favorite golf hole, No. 7 at Pebble Beach, Calif. hanging on a wall in the house’s lower level, which is the same area where he has an indoor practice area for his hobby.

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

Bats in Ridgway trace finials around the corner columns of the cherry island and complement the beautiful cream cabinetry. Rapp Cabinets and Woodwork Inc. of Dahlgren seamlessly incorporate Phyllis’s dream window seat among the expanse of built-ins. “My grandson, he’s 6 now, but he’s been pretty small, so we’ve played on that window seat,” Phyllis says. “We’ve had dominos out there for his roads and his little cars, and he’s very creative and imaginative. We have played so much there, and his little toys are in the drawer.” Guest rooms are located upstairs, facing the loft. The basement houses a third guest room, a walk-in cedar closet and a storage room coated in retired front-door wreaths and equipped with a large worktable for crafting more. An additional laundry room and a second kitchen make the space a separate, autonomous apartment. The game room is the main attraction. At the far end, the netted screen for Mike’s golf course simulator drops from the ceiling to cover the wall. Mike uses his real clubs to hit balls off a unique mat.

Life & Style : Winter 2010 51

business buzz

Accolades 2011: AIFD Executive Marketing Committee AIFD Symposium Committee Social Media Director 2009: Lincoln Cup, Second Place 2008: ISFA Designer of the Year NAFA National Designer of the Year, Fourth Place SRFA Designer of the Year, Second Place 2007: Lincoln Cup, Second Place

The

Inset left: These are decorations that Jodi designed at Mackie’s Pizza in Marion.

Wintering florist Jodi Duncan delivers emotion with each floral arrangement

52 Life & Style : Winter 2010

Steve Jahnke

Provided

Jodi Duncan of Harrisburg is an awardwinning florist who is certified by the American Institute of Floral Design.

story by Claire Ploegman Jodi Duncan communicates through flowers. She’s been arranging, bending, building, draping, wrapping and re-imaging floral designs for 24 years, generally thinking it all up while perched in a shop or studio in Saline or White county. “Flowers are really about emotion,” explains Duncan. “We deliver emotion, really.” The best emotions, actually. In 2008, Duncan’s talents sent her on life’s scenic route when she earned accreditation from the American Institute of Floral Design. Duncan deftly crafted five arrangements in three hours to clinch membership. When she pens “AIFD” after her signature, Duncan takes her place alongside the greatest in her trade who express the triumphant emotions that color the Rose Bowl, the Oscars and the White House. Before Duncan brought her new letters home to Harrisburg, her creations garnered the attention of two floral greats: Philadelphian Bill Schaffer, head of the illustrious Schaffer Designs, and Alison Bradley, editor of Fusion Flowers, Europe’s beautifully forward botanical publication. Schaffer invited Duncan to collaborate and craft a walk-through installation, titled Polar Fantasy, to showcase at the Philadelphia Flower Show that takes place each March.

her decking duties included the Governor’s Mansion in Du Quoin. Duncan’s most legendary holiday project is her yearly treatment of Mackie’s Pizza for owner and flower aficionado Roxanna Nicholes, who cut a hole in the host-stand countertop to holster a vase. “There’s a lot of buzz generated about the Mackie’s Christmas,â€? Duncan says. Visual texture is a signature of Duncan’s holiday decoration aesthetic. She is able to create different “feelings,â€? using clippings from the ample Magnolia tree outside her shop and by using a special permit to clip natural materials from the Shawnee National Forest. For added warmth and texture, Duncan braids velvet, wool or knitting into the botanical creations. She has been known to cuff vases using sleeves from sweaters bought at second-hand stores. In all of her work, Duncan most enjoys how her flowers form relationships. She experiences lifetimes with her local clients, from pinning boutonnières on lapels for the grown children of parents she visits with Christmas garlands to crafting their loved ones’ burial sprays.

&UHDWLQJ %HDXWLIXO 5RRPV 6LQFH

&DOO $QJHOD 5RZH WRGD\ IRU \RXU FRPSOLPHQWDU\ FRQVXOWDWLRQ &XVWRP :LQGRZ 7UHDWPHQWV ‡ )XUQLWXUH /LJKWLQJ ‡ $UHD 5XJV ‡ :DOOSDSHU ‡ $FFHVVRULHV

‡ RU WROO IUHH ZZZ GHFGHQV FRP DQJHODURZH 25 ZZZ 'HFRUDWLQJ'HQ FRP

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

“His concept was, what’s the one place in the world that would not have flowers? Antarctica,â€? Duncan explains. “So everything was monochromatic. It was all white. Stunning, stunning, stunning.â€? The wintry achievement took the 2010 Award of Distinction, as well as the Emil H. Gescick Memorial Award. More merit came with word of a marriage proposal within the display’s cavern of hanging orchids. The portentous icing: Fusion Flowers is reserving an 11-page spread detailing the accomplishment. Even so, the local girl still fits in at home and always will. The bulk of Duncan’s bridal services beautify Southern Illinois venues, and she receives plenty of recognition from the Illinois State Flower Association, where she also serves on the board of directors. “Because of the support I had in Southern Illinois from my customers, it enabled me to pay for the AIFD testing, to travel to achieve it, to have the confidence to go for it,â€? Duncan says. Holiday business keeps Duncan home for Christmas with up to 40 residential and commercial dĂŠcor installations. Last year,

Life & Style : Winter 2010 53

wine country

Fvine

ruit of the

Pomona Winery bottles the best of our harvests story by Adam Testa

Award-winning wines What: Pomona Winery Phone: 618-893-2623 Tastings: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, April 1-Dec. 31 and 10 a.m.5 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday Jan. 1-March 31 Harvesting strawberries that will become delicious wine are Pomona Winery co-owner George Majka (top), Theresa Lusch (middle) and Laura Borger.

54 Life & Style : Winter 2010

Provided by pomona winery

Where: 2865 Hickory Ridge Road, Pomona

Finding the proper mix for a nearly perfect wine can take years of experimentation and trials for vintners, as they’re forced to attempt different blends, compositions and elements of production. But for George Majka and Jane Payne at Pomona Winery in rural Jackson County, success truly began with failure. Word floated through the grapevine that black currants could be used to produce wine, a technique and flavoring exemplified by French winemakers, so the partners purchased a literal ton of the fruit and began the creation process. The results, however, were much less than desired. “They’re so sour you can’t make them sweet enough to eat,” Majka said. “It looked like tar and smelled like turnips. You couldn’t add enough sugar to make it sweet enough to drink.” Majka and Payne were unsure what they’d do with the large stockpile of this undrinkable liquid they’d amassed, but their worries and concerns vanished with a visitor from France told them about how the black currant wine could be blended with apple wine to produce a popular French drink named Kir. Willing to try anything at that point, the local winemakers attempted their own blend of Kir, which soon became — and remains today — Pomona Winery’s top-selling product. But while Pomona’s signature Kir represents the best solution to a potential problem, the winery and its owners have also found their own brand

)URP RXU IDPLO\ WR \RXUV Have a Safe & Joyous Holiday Season! www.banterrabank.com

Celebrate Your Holiday with a Brand New Kitchen! See Tracy & Eric, Our Professional Cabinet Consultants &RXQWHUWRSV 6WDUWLQJ $W

69

$

3HU / )W

&RPSDUH RXU SULFHV

3HU / )W

' &RPSXWHU 'HVLJQ 'HVLJQ 6WDIILQJ )UHH 0HDVXULQJ

‡ $ )XOO /LQH RI .LWFKHQ 3URGXFWV ‡ )XOO &XVWRP &DSDELOLW\ ‡ )LHOG 0HDVXULQJ ‡ &RPSXWHU 'HVLJQ

OLQHV RI FDELQHWU\ JUDQLWH ODPLQDWHG VROLG VXUIDFH FRXQWHUWRSV UDQJH KRRGV JDUEDJH GLVSRVDOV IDXFHWV

$OO :RRG ‡ &XVWRP %XLOW )DVW 'HOLYHU\ ‡ &UHDWLYH 'HVLJQV 1R :DVWHG 6SDFH &RPSXWHU $LGHG 'HVLJQV 6L]HV WR )LW <RXU 'LPHQVLRQV

OUR KITCHENS SIZZLE!

6RXWK 6LGH /XPEHU 6 3DUN ‡ +HUULQ ‡ 9LVLW XV DW ZZZ VVOXPEU FRP

+RXUV

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

14

$

&DELQHWV 6WDUWLQJ $W

0RQ )UL DP SP ‡ 6DW DP SP

Life & Style : Winter 2010 55

wine country Pomona Winery co-owner George Majka opens a bottle of wine for customers during a tasting.

Paul Newton

Inset: Pomona Winery makes only fruit wine and uses no grapes.

Pomona wines are awardwinning, handcrafted and hand-bottled wines made from locally grown fruits. They have seven table wines and three fortified dessert wines. For 14 of the last 15 years, every wine has won at least one medal in state, regional, national and international judgings.

of success in the intended areas. Majka and Payne began making wine in 1982 and helped create the entity now known as the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail with Owl Creek Vineyard in Cobden and Alto Vineyard in Alto Pass. Pomona Winery became the first winery in Jackson County and the sixth in Illinois. And from the beginning, the establishment separated itself from the pack by crafting a line of fruit-based wines and not using a single grape in their production process. Today, Majka and Payne use apples, blueberries, peaches and strawberries, and they have recently begun

experimenting with blackberries and hope to have a wine of that variety on the shelf in the next few years. “We take a great deal of pride in the fact that about 99 percent of the fruit we use comes from within 25 miles of the winery, and we make all the wine right here, mostly by hand,” Majka said. “We stick to local fruits, so we haven’t made a raspberry wine, for example. We know raspberries make a wonderful wine, but there’s not enough of a stable supply around here.” The possibilities are nearly limitless with what can be converted into wine, as others have successfully crafted the beverage from pears, wild persimmons, jalapeno peppers, tomatoes, onions and rice. But Winemakers hope to crush the myth that fruit wines are only sweet the owners of Pomona Winery plan to stick to what they know and what’s “I don’t like sweet wines.” content and result in a much less desirable available locally. Often heard from customers and visitors result. Buying locally adds another layer at Pomona Winery in rural Jackson The trick then becomes adding sugar to to the economic benefit to the region. County, this statement is also a popular the mix. Majka and Payne use about an average misconception and myth that owners “That doesn’t make it sweet,” Majka of 40,000 pounds of apples and 2,000 George Majka and Jane Payne hope to said. “That’s to feed the yeast and bring up pounds of peaches, blueberries and debunk. the alcohol level.” strawberries from local vendors and The winery sets itself apart from the When the wine finds its way to the growers. While more costly, supporting pack by only offering fruit-based wines bottle, and ultimately to the consumer’s other local businesses remains a core and not using grapes in the production glass, there’s no distinguishable taste principal of Pomona’s business strategy. process, and as a result, the staff faces from the additional sugar, and the same Of course, the unpredictable weather the pleasuring challenge of introducing characteristics of traditional grape wines of Southern Illinois can present unknowing guests to the wide array of exist. challenges, as it did in 2007, when an wines, ranging from dry to sweet and red To best work with guests, the tasting unusually warm march followed by an to white. room of Pomona Winery is divided into April freeze cost the region a majority “We have something for everyone here,” clearly labeled sections, each offering of its fruit yield. That year, Majka and Majka said. a different style of wine. As visitors Payne were forced to purchase fruit from But the misconceptions aren’t move through the line, they’ll have the Michigan and have it transported to unexplainable or unreasonable, as it takes opportunity to sample everything from Southern Illinois, an experience they a knowledge of wine chemistry to decipher. dry to dessert wines. And staff has been hope not to replicate. Grapes, the most common source trained to recommend specific food pairing “Pretty much everyone knew we were of wine, have enough natural sugar to suggestions for each wine. in deep trouble,” Majka said. “But it produce a healthy and stable byproduct “We surprise a lot of people with how was a good lesson. It forced us to choose during the fermentation process. Other good non grape wines can be,” Majka said. some other options.” — Adam Testa fruits, like apples, have much lower sugar

56 Life & Style : Winter 2010

Spiced wine, recognized as early as Roman times and produced under various logics and customs, boasts a reasonably stable popularity over the centuries. Although falling out of fashion in the 18th century, it was a prized possession as early as the Middle Ages. In Medieval times, making spiced wine was a way to utilize spoiled wine and keep warm in the winter. Morgenstern Although doctors and apothecaries were rare, spiced wine was often obtained from them in Medieval times, as they were owners of stills. It was common for these professions to treat with a combination of herbs and spices rather than defined medical treatment, resulting in ideas as spiced wine, to promote health and digestion. There were various early terms for spiced wine including pimen and hippocras (Catalan), after the famous Greek doctor, Hippocrates. Although widely consumed across Europe, one of the earliest written recipes is in Old English from “Forme of Cury: A Roll of Ancient English Cookery,” compiled circa 1390 by the Master Cooks of King Richard II. Most wine in 14th-century England was imported from the birthplace of King Richard II, the English-ruled area of Bourdeaux. Wine had a short shelf life of about a year, making spiced wine out of vintages gone bad a commonality of most evening meals.

The 1390 “Forme of Cury” recipe is translated by Leah Hunt as follows: “To make hippocras. 3 ounces of cinnamon & 3 ounces of ginger. One denier (penny) worth of spikenard of Spain. Galangal, cloves, long pepper & nutmeg. Marjoram & cardamom, a quarter ounce for each. Grains of paradise (or guinea grains) & cinnamon flower, a tenth ounce for each. So make the powder and use it.” As in the above recipe, from the 14th to 16 centuries, spiced wine contained spices only. Fruit was a later addition. The similarities in spiced wine historically between countries, and recipes are it being made with red wine, using similar spices and being served warm. Called various things around the world, glögg, navegado or vin brulé to name a few, personally, I find the German translation of glühwein ( glow wine ) to be the most “accurate” and inviting. Glühwein being sold in open air markets is one of the first signs of fall in Germany. Many of the local Illinois wineries make their own version of mulled wine during the holiday season and often have spice bags for sale to use at home. Wherever you are this holiday season, may you find the time to make, or simply enjoy a mug of warming mulled wine with family and friends. Wishing you a happy holiday season. BRUCE MORGENSTERN is vice president of Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Association (IGGVA) and is owner of Pheasant Hollow Winery in Whittington.

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

Paul Newton

Southern Illinois & Vine: Wines have always added spice to the holidays

Life & Style : Winter 2010 57

events

Leading the way Carbondale’s Lights Fantastic parade ushers in the holiday season

story by Les O’Dell Underneath the turtleneck, sweater and winter coat, and behind the scarf and stocking hat, little Abigail Shadle’s heart beats fast. Even though she is only 5 years old, Abigail has been looking forward to this evening for days, if not weeks. She’s enthralled by the spectacle and sounds of Carbondale’s Lights Fantastic parade. “She’s always very excited about the parade,” says Thom Shadle, Abigail’s father. “All day long she wants to be ready so we can get there. She’s the first one in the car.” For Abigail and many Southern Illinoisans, the holiday season is escorted in with a lighted parade. Carbondale’s parade is celebrating two decades of bands and lighted floats. Other communities in the region including Herrin and Chester have held similar events in recent years. Chester’s annual parade culminates with the lighting of the community’s Christmas tree. Parade watchers of all ages look forward to the events. “It’s part of my Christmas holiday season ritual,” explains Kristin Gregory of Carbondale . “There’s making popcorn balls, watching ‘The Preacher’s Wife,’ baking cookies, decorating the tree and the parade.” Gregory has moved from parade participant to observer. “Being from Carbondale, I used to be in the junior high marching band and then the high school band. This was the parade where it was so cold my fingers were stuck inside my clarinet, and yet I still loved it,” she recalls. Abigail and her sisters, Leah, 7, and Naomi, 6, are making the opposite transition. “Now that all three are in Girl Scouts, they love participating in the parade,” Shadle says. “They’re very excited to get to

58 Life & Style : Winter 2010

walk along and not only see the parade, but also see everyone who is there to watch the parade.” He says the family will be there, no matter what the weather. “Bundling up is part of the fun,” he adds. Those in the parade are not so sure. Carbondale Middle School Band Director Shadi Frick is preparing for his 17th parade. “As a teacher, I’m always a little nervous about the weather, especially after so much work has gone into the uniforms and the lights,” he says. The weather can be a big challenge for the musicians, both in marching and in playing. “I remember one year as a member of the Marching Salukis, we marched on a sheet of ice,” Frick says. “It was one of the scariest events of my life.” He says that cold temperatures can lead to instruments’ mouthpieces sticking or freezing to band members. Despite the chill, he says participating in nighttime parades are exciting. Band students aren’t the only ones working diligently to prepare for the parades. In Carbondale, dozens of organizations and businesses sponsor lighted floats of all shapes and sizes. Gregory says she likes the mix of familiar and surprises when it comes to floats. “You always look for your favorites — Santa Claus, of course — and there are always new floats you don’t expect. That makes it fun,” she says. All of the entries share a common trait: thousands of bulbs. Parade rules require each entry to have at least 5,000 lights. “I know we’ve met the minimum, no problem,” says Dennis Howell. He coordinates preparation of Walnut Street

Baptist Church’s entry in the parade. The work began early in the fall. “It takes quite a bit of work to get it ready every year,” he says, “but we’re glad to be a part of the celebration of the holidays.” Organizers say the parades are all about bringing in the season. “We like to think we kick off the holiday season in a grand fashion with an event for the family and a sense of community,” parade co-chair Roxanne Conley explains. “It’s just an event that everyone looks forward to and has become sort of a tradition for many families.” Gregory understands that feeling as well as the appeal of the parade to those as young as Abigail. “It’s a time when it feels like the whole community gets together,” she says. “It’s one of my favorite community moments of the year.”

Light up the holidays with special events Here are a few of the special holiday displays and events coming up in Southern Illinois. Go to www.LifeAndStyleSI.com to get updates throughout the season.

CANDY CANE LANE

A member of the Williamson County Shriners’ Motor Patrol waves to children during the 2008 Lights Fantastic Parade in Carbondale. Inset: Dennis Howell, a volunteer with Walnut Street Baptist Church, works on the framework of the groups float for the group’s parade in December.

Admission: $5 per family vehicles, $8 on nights Exposition Hall is open When: Nov. 26-Dec. 30, closed Christmas Day Where: Du Quoin State Fairgrounds Phone: 618-542-8338

LIGHTS FANTASTIC PARADE

City of Chester’s traditional Christmas on the River celebration; events include a lighted Christmas parade When: Parade at 7 p.m. Dec. 3; other events Dec. 4-5 Where: Downtown Chester Phone: 618-826-1430

Annual Lights Fantastic Parade in downtown Carbondale; downtown businesses provide cookies and refreshments for Holiday Cookie Walk; pictures with Santa’s Reindeer at Town Square; chili and drinks fundraiser 4-7 p.m. Dec. 4 When: 4-6 p.m. Where: Downtown Carbondale Phone: 800-526-1500 or 618-529-8040

LIGHTS FAIR

PARADE

CHRISTMAS ON THE RIVER

Lighted displays throughout Du Quoin State Fairgrounds; Exhibition Hall open beginning Dec. 12 on weekends only, with musical performances, holiday tree display, visits with Santa

Christmas parade with floats, bands and Santa When: 1:30 p.m. Dec. 4 Where: Ninth and Market streets, Metropolis Phone: 800-949-5740.

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

Paul Newton

Drive-through neighborhood decorated with Christmas lights and holiday scenery in downtown West Frankfort beginning at Main Street past the high school When: 5-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 5-11 p.m. FridaySaturday, 5-10 p.m. Sunday; all Nov. 26-Dec. 31 Where: Downtown West Frankfort on Main Street

Life & Style : Winter 2010 59

parting shot

p.s. photo by Alan Rogers The Southern

60 Life & Style : Winter 2010

Southern Illinois doesn’t always get its fair share of snow, but on this day last winter Nick Kelly took full advantage when it did fall. Kelly and a group of friends from Carbondale Community High School were free to sled on the hills near SIU Arena after school was canceled because of weather.

www.LifeandStyleSI.com

Life & Style : Winter 2010 3

4 Life & Style : Winter 2010

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.