GETAWAYGUIDE WINERIES & VINEYARDS MUSEUMS
TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2013-2014
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JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER
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“Come as our guests, leave as our friends.” Tuscan Hills Winery is a family owned and operated business. Our award winning winemaker and American Wine Society judge, Dr. Larry Jackson, has over 30 years of winemaking experience and is especially focused on creating well-balanced wines of the highest quality. Let our experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly staff guide you through our award winning portfolio of artistically crafted and well-balanced selection of wine. Besides our wine selection, Tuscan Hills Winery also offers specialty beers and various non-alcoholic refreshments. Make sure to check our wonderful gift and gourmet food selections – truely something for every palate. Besides offering exceptional quality wines, Tuscan Hills Winery also focuses on creating an old world Tuscan feel – perfect for your wedding, corporate meeting, or private event.
2200 Historic Hills Drive • Effingham, IL 62401
217-347-WINE (9463)
Come visit our award winning building conveniently located off I-57/70 exit 162 behind the Harley Barn. Open year-round, 7 days a week (excluding major holidays) For more information or to view our events calendar, please visit www.effinghamwinery.com For wholesale inquiries, contact Trevor Arsenault at 217-821-8444
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Getaway Guide – 3
SPEND AN HOUR... OR AN AFTERNOON
ENVISION THE FUTURE.
Explore how customer ideas drive design and product decisions in the Immersive Visualization Center at the new Caterpillar Visitors Center in Peoria, Illinois. Sit in the seat of a machine of the future or walk an assembly line of a factory not yet built. It’s the same 3D technology that Caterpillar uses to design and build machines, engines and factories today, and it’s a fascinating look into product development. Plan your visit today at www.caterpillar.com/visitors-center.
Caterpillar Visitors Center | Peoria Riverfront Monday – Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.* Closed Sunday and holidays *Last ticket entry at 3:30 p.m.
Buy tickets online today!
Children 1 2 an d u n de are FREE! r
caterpillar.com/visitors-center © 2013 Caterpillar All Rights Reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Yellow” and the “Power Edge” trade dress, as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.
Present this ad for $1.00 off admission. Limit 1 per person. Coupon Code - Getaway. Expires 12/31/2013. 20520309
CVC Getaway ad_7.6875x9.75.indd 1
4 – Getaway Guide
4/3/13 9:46 AM
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Come see why
is one of the fastest growing communities in Central Illinois
www.forsythvillage.us
Hickory Point Mall
141A
141B
In Forsyth, you can find just about anything you want or need… Whether you’re shopping for a do-it-yourself project around the house, a camping trip, a formal dance, a special gift, a hard-tofind book, or just about anything else, you’re sure to find what you need just a few minutes of your door.
Aside from the mall, the Village is home to a wide variety of other retail establishments, including Lowe’s, Staples, Best Buy, Menards, Good’s Furniture, Coziahr Harley-Davidson and Petsmart, among many others.
If you like the outdoors, you’ll love Forsyth. Our public parks feature dozens of acres of woods and open fields, as well as tennis and basketball courts, soccer fields and baseball diamonds, and batting cages — all connected by miles and miles of paved walking and bicycling paths. Within walking distance of many Forsyth residences is the Decatur Park District’s Hickory Point Golf course. The 18 hole public course plays host each year to a Symetra Golf Tournament, June 9th-16th.
And if you’re planning to step out for a meal, you won’t go hungry in Forsyth. In the time it takes you to say, “I don’t want to cook tonight,” you can be at any one of our many convenience food outlets, casual restaurants, or fine dining establishments.The mall includes a food court, and you will find your choice of several restaurants immediately outside the mall, including Cheddar’s, Applebee’s, Red Lobster, and Texas Roadhouse. Other restaurants in the Village includeMi Jalapeno (Mexican), O’Charley’s, Steak and Shake, Pizza Hut, and Buffalo Wild Wings.
Forsyth’s outstanding location and labor force have attracted a wide variety of retail businesses, including many of the country’s most recognized names, as well as a number of specialty shops. Hickory Point Mall is anchored by several large department stores: VonMaur, Kohl’s, JC Penney, Sears and Bergner’s.
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Looking for something to do after dinner? You might want to check out what’s playing at our modern 12-screen theatre, Hickory Point 12 Theaters, right outside Hickory Point Mall.
Getaway Guide – 5
GETAWAY GUIDE 2013 – 2014 REGIONAL PUBLISHER Todd Nelson SALES MANAGERS
Tammy Jordan 217-238-6835 Cayla Hittmeier 217-421-6994 Bernard Beoletto 309-820-3270 NEWS MANAGERS
Carl Walworth 217-238-6822 Gary Sawyer 217-421-6975 Mark Pickering 309-820-3252 SALES MELODY PARKS ROB SCHEFFER KAREN COLLIER SHANNON DAVIS CONNIE ANDERSON SHERRI ALDRICH BRANDON MENKE SUE SMITH LYNN MEUSER BETH MURPHY ASHLEY COONTZ ANGIE LANE
Features
ARTICLES INDEX
8 14 18 48 52
Lincoln Discover what’s inside Lincoln’s Library and Museum
Amish Country Beachy’s Bulk Foods in Arthur is a “can’t-miss” destination
Find out what’s along the historical Route 66
Signature Cup Tournament Learn where the best golfers in Illinois play to win
Racing: A Tradition Thrives Now you’ll know where to find the best racing in the area
6 – Getaway Guide
ONLINE MARCUS ZEAL PRODUCTION ALEXANDRA MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN KILHOFFER KEN TREVARTHAN DAVID PROEBER
JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER
Route 66
State Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24-27 Museums . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28-34 Union Jack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Central Illinois Wineries . . . . . . . .36 East Central Illinois Wine Trail 37-41 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Zoos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45-47 Dirt Tracks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54-55 Fishing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56-57 Golf Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58-62
EDITORIAL PENNY WEAVER BRUCE YENTES L.E. HLAVACH SARAH MILLER LENORE SOBOTA BILL LAIR TONY REID STACY CONN ALLISON PETTY
ART & DESIGN ALEXANDRA MEYER THOM RAKESTRAW STEPHANIE ARDUINI RAY PRICE PHIL HODEL
Getaway Guide to Central Illinois is published by the Journal Gazette/Times-Courier Address: 700 Broadway Avenue East, Suite 9A, Mattoon, IL 61938 www.jg-tc.com Phone: (217) 235-5656 Fax: (217) 238-6886 Advertising e-mail: advertising@jg-tc.com Newsroom e-mail: editorial@jg-tc.com
ADVERTISER INDEX BY TOWN 64, 48-53 – MATTOON 24-28 – CHARLESTON 8-15 – ARTHUR • ARCOLA 16-17 CHESTERVILLE 41 – TUSCOLA 18-23, 4 – BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL 35-40, 2, 3 – EFFINGHAM 7, 47 – GREENUP • MARSHALL 57-58 – SULLIVAN
54 – MONTICELLO 5, 29-31, 63 – DECATUR 62 – MANSFIELD 59 – RANTOUL 42 – NEWTON 42, 44-46 – CASEY 55 – PARIS 43 – GREENVILLE
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Getaway Guide – 7
Museum Showcases Lincoln
By L.E. Hlavach LEE SPRINGFIELD BUREAU
Photos courtesy of The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, as its website puts it, combines “rigorous scholarship with ground-breaking showmanship.” It is the most visited presidential library and museum in the United States, despite opening just in 2005. Physically, the complex has two parts – the library at 112 N. Sixth St., and the museum at 212 N. Sixth St., which welcomed its three-millionth visitor Aug. 1, 2012. The two parts are joined by an enclosed walkway. Museum Deputy Director David Blanchette recommends visitors give themselves at least three to three and a half hours to fully explore. 8 – Getaway Guide
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Photos courtesy of The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Blanchette said for the most part, the museum is suitable for all ages and “Mrs. Lincolnís Attic” (described below) is specifically for young children. Most of the exhibits immerse visitors in sights, sounds and perspective with period music, cannon blasts, whispers, and intentional distortions. Human figures are typically life-size, with detailed hair, skin and even body hair.
• “The Plaza,” where lifelike figures of the Lincolns greet visitors. • “Journey One: The PrePresidential Years,” which follows Lincoln from childhood through his election in 1860. • “Journey Two: The White House Years” begins on the White House portico where visitors walk past life-size figures of George McClellan, Ulysses S. Grant, Sojourner Truth and Frederick Douglass. (John Wilkes Booth lurks behind a fence.)
located in downtown Arthur Arthur Primitives, Glassware, Yoder’s Lamps Feed Sacks, Crocks 2x3 Antique Furniture Farm Collectibles a variety of old and new Specializing in old Aladdin and traditional oil lamps LP and Natural Gas lights Lamp Repair & Service Open: M-F 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
214 South Vine St. Phone: 217- 543-2108
Visitors enter the White House, where they are greeted by Mary. War scenes are poignant, especially an area called “The Civil War in 4 Minutes.” A lone piano plays tunes of the day as a U.S. map
undulates with colorful battle lines at the rate of one week a second. At the lower right corner, a meter spins through updated casualty totals. At war’s end, the meter totals 702,000 Northern casualties and 621,000 Southern casualties. • In “Union Theater,” Lincoln’s life story is told from the perspective of an artist painting Lincoln’s portrait. “Lincoln’s Eyes” runs 17 minutes and includes strobe lights and loud noises to add realism to battle scenes. • “Ask Mr. Lincoln” offers visitors a screen where questions are posed to Lincoln. Historian and Lincoln expert Tom Schwartz provides background for the answer, then an actor supplies Lincolnís own words from letters and speeches. • “The Treasures Gallery” displays family artifacts like photos, china and crystal. In summer 2013, one of the five remaining copies of the
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1955 CR 1700E Arthur, IL 61911
1 Mile West and 1½ Miles South of Arthur
Rent to Own Available • Call Today! Getaway Guide – 9
Mrs. Lincoln’s Attic
Photos courtesy of The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Gettysburg Address, written in Lincoln’s own hand, will be on display. • “Ghosts of the Library” is a holographic, 15-minute presentation on why history matters. • In “Mrs. Lincoln’s Attic,” children can arrange furniture and Lincoln family figures in the Lincoln Home doll house; try on a
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Fabric & Notions Wooden Toys
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Gifts
The Greatest Dot to Dot Books Some Pictures have over a 1000 numbers • Ages 8-108
Hours: Monday-Friday 8-5 400 E. Cty Rd. 200 N. • Arcola, IL 61910 Saturday 8-3 ♦ Closed on Sunday 217-268-5144
10 – Getaway Guide
• Large array of patterns and colors • Styles in King, Queen, Twin and Full sizes • Custom-made quilts • Hand-made baskets
Open Spring to Fall, Winter by appointment. Closed Sundays. Buses by appointment. At Grandma’s House • ¼ Mile south of Arthur 2088 CR 1800 E. • Arthur, lllinois 61911 • 217-543-2844
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Ghosts in the Library
Photos courtesy of The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
Young Abe Reading by the Fire
Photos courtesy of The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum jg-tc.com • herald-review.com • pantagraph.com
Getaway Guide – 11
child-size Lincoln’s suit, Maryís dress or a Civil War uniform; and have their photo taken with life-size cut-outs of young Abraham, his sister and his parents. Adults must accompany children. Temporary exhibits move in and out of the Illinois Gallery. On display through 2013 is “To Kill and To Heal,” a display of the weapons and medicine of the Civil War.
Covering your investments with custom canvas Boat Covers & Enclosures Awnings Roll-Up Garage Door Screens Room Dividers
Custom Projects 1749 B State Hwy. 133 • Arthur, IL 61911
(217) 543-3007 M-F 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Sat. 7 - Noon • Closed Sunday
• The Old State Capitol, bordered by Fifth, Adams, Sixth and Washington streets; a reconstruction of Illinois’ fifth statehouse, the first in Springfield, used from 1839 to 1876. Itís where Lincoln served his last term in the Illinois House and delivered the “House Divided” speech. Seasonal hours; 217785-7960. • Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices, Sixth and Adams streets; only remaining rooms where Abraham Lincoln had a law office, practicing from 1843 to about 1852. Includes visitors’center, federal court display. Seasonal hours; 217-7857289. • Lincoln Home National Historic Site, bordered by Seventh, Edwards, Ninth streets and Capitol Avenue; visitors center, 426 S. Seventh St., has free tour tickets; 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. daily;
Lunch Buffet • Dinner Buffet
Breakfast Buffet Fridays – May through December Saturdays – Year Round
12 – Getaway Guide
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Ford’s Theater
217-492-4241; closed Jan. 1, Thanksgiving, Christmas. Includes Lincoln Home, restored sidewalks and streets, Dean and Arnold houses include exhibits. • Lincoln Tomb & War Memorial, Oak Ridge Cemetery, 1500 Monument Ave.; 217-782-2717. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sun.,
May-Labor Day; 9 .m.-5 p.m. Tue.-Sat., Labor Day-Oct. 31; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tue.-Sat., Nov.-Feb.; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue.-Sat., March-April. Second most-visited cemetery in U.S. contains remains of Lincoln, Mary and three of their four sons.
Need Rejavanation?
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Enjoy coffee, friendship and more.
Photos courtesy of The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
What: Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Where: 212 N. Sixth St., Springfield, IL Hours: Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (ticket sales end at 4 p.m.) Contact: PresidentLincoln.Illinois.gov or 217-558-8934 Admission: adults $12; seniors (62 and up) $9; children (5-15) $6; military (ID required) $7; students (ID required) $9; child (under 5) free; members free.
“POURING A “LATTE” CHEER, ONE CUP AT A TIME.”
Hours: Monday 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday - Thursday 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. Saturday 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
1045 E. Columbia Street (Route 133) Arthur, IL 61911 / 217.543.3106
Illinois Dutch-Style Cooking Discover why The Dutch Kitchen is one of Amish Country’s most popular dining spots. We serve breakfast, lunch and dinner in our nostalgic Main Street setting. Most of our menu favorites originate from authentic Illinois Dutch recipes. Enjoy our famous fried chicken, Dutch sausage, fresh salad bar, warm breads with Yoder’s Apple Butter and shoo-fly pie. Come in during your visit to Illinois Amish Country.
• Open Tues thru Sun 7:30 - 7:00 (Closed Mon) • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner • Children’s Menu • Daily Specials • Banquet Room • Fresh Salad Bar jg-tc.com • herald-review.com • pantagraph.com
Corner of Locust & Main, Downtown Arcola 217-268-3518 Getaway Guide – 13
Beachy’s is an Amish Country “can’t miss” Small farms, one-room schoolhouses and quaint shops dot the landscape of the Illinois Amish countryside surrounding the cities of Arthur and Arcola. While Amish families in the region have traditionally been engaged in farming, over the past few decades, many have opened cottage businesses. Some have grown to the extent that they employ other Amish, according to the Illinois Amish Museum’s website. One such cottage business in the area is Beachy’s Bulk Foods, located off Illinois Route 133 between Arcola and Arthur. Locals and tourists alike visit Beachy’s to “find things they can’t find anywhere else,” said Raymond Beachy, an employee and son of the store’s original owners. The shelves are stocked with bulk items, most of which are portioned into smaller plastic containers and twist-tied bags. However, those looking for a 50-
Gospel
By Sarah Miller, JG-TC
destination
pound bag of flour or sugar will find it as well. The bulk items are ordered from Amish and non-Amish wholesalers and then repackaged into smaller portions by the 20 or so store employees, Beachy said. “There are quite a few items we sell
in the 50-pound or in bulk,” Beachy said. “It’s up to the customer, but the best price is if they want to buy it in a large quantity.” Bulk items range from baking supplies, rice, pasta, spices and soup mixes to candies, snacks, cereals, coffees and teas.
book & music store
122 S. Vine St., Arthur, IL Phone: 217-543-2221
Hours: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Mon. - Sat.
Martin Guitars Deering Banjos Kentucky Mandolins Goldtone Dealer • Bibles in major translations and bindings • Books and informational videos on Amish • Gospel CD’s and DVD’s 14 – Getaway Guide
Yoder’s Homestead Shop 117 E. Main St., Arcola, IL 61910 217-268-3841
Calico Workshop 228 South Vine St., Arthur, IL 61911 217-543-2312
www.yodershomesteadfurniture.com
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For instance, one side of an aisle is packed with colorful candy chocolatecovered raisins and pretzels, gummy candies in about every shape imaginable, hard candy in nearly every flavor, bags of jelly beans, and pretty much anything to stave off a sweets or chocolate craving. Meanwhile, across the aisle, snack options include garlic bagel chips, honey roasted and wasabi soybeans, all types of nuts and seeds, and a variety of other choices. More than half of another aisle is packed with spices, one of the store’s most popular type of product, Beachy said. Basil, oregano, nutmeg, mint, garlic powder and other common spices are stacked in multiple sizes of plastic containers alongside numerous hard-tofind spices and seasonings. The unique variety of items brought Neoga resident and returning customer Vickie Mendenhall to Beachy’s on a Thursday morning in February. “I love the spices and stuff. Itís so much cheaper than you get in a regular grocery store,” she said. Mendenhall was also looking for particular items needed for her paleo diet. She was delighted to find almond flour and coconut flour on the shelves since she had not been able to procure them locally. “They just have things here that you can”t find other places,” she said. Beachy said the staff accommodates requests for special orders and even offers mail order service. “A lot of the items we’d never heard of until a customer mentions them,” he said. “We’ll find things people want. It may take longer. We ship all over the U.S.” Beachy’s has carried gluten-free products for quite www.jg-tc.com
some time, but recently they have become “pretty popular,” Beachy added. The bulk items are just a portion of the store’s merchandise. Beachy’s also has a freezer section with locally processed meats, frozen fruits and ice cream; a grocery line; and household items such as cooking gadgets and canning supplies. The refrigerated section houses Amish cheeses, locally grown eggs, milk and other necessities. Several homemade items are made on site including breads, noodles, cookies, cinnamon rolls and whoopie pies. Many of the items are locally made as well. Beachy’s stocks honey from local producers, and the jams and jellies are made just a few miles away. In the summertime, they order produce in, but locals also bring in homegrown garden staples, Beachy said. Employees also attend the weekly Arthur Produce Auction on occasion to purchase fresh products for the store. Wooden puzzles, children’s books and games, toys and some baby items are also popular items at Beachy’s. “Overall, I”d say we even sell more toys and things like that,” Beachy said. He said the store receives more “area folks than we used to have,” such as Mendenhall, who lives about 35 miles away. Others hail from Decatur, Champaign and Peoria, and tour buses are often seen in the parking lot during the summer months. Marion Meyer and Lee Austin, both of Springfield, were wandering up and down the aisles during a late-winter visit taking in all the store has to offer. They originally stumbled upon Beachy’s during a day Getaway Guide – 15
trip and now return every three or four months, Lee said. In addition to purchasing meat, bread and candy, Meyers, a native of Germany, enjoys the culture of Amish Country. While the Amish speak English, many also speak Pennsylvania Dutch, a form of German, which Meyer said she is able to understand. “I like their food. I love their culture. I just love it,” she said. The store has attracted a mix of locals and tourists since opening in 1977. Beachy said his mother and father, Levi and Katie Beachy, offered produce from their garden and fresh eggs to passerbys from the back porch of their farmhouse beginning in 1977. “That’s how they actually got started selling the produce and stuff,” he said. Over the years, the family
16 – Getaway Guide
continued to sell items, including some in bulk, from their porch and later a larger building on the farm. In the summer of 1985, Beachy’s Bulk Foods opened in its current location. The building has now been expanded five times to accommodate additional shelf space and warehouse space, Beachy said. One can see the success of the store through these expansions, the jampacked parking lot and on the the faces of returning customers. “They’re very accommodating,” Mendenhall said. “They know what they are doing.”
Visit Arthur Welcome Center on Facebook for Amish Country happenings. The JG-TC asked its Facebook fans what they thought were the “can’t miss” destinations in Illinois Amish Country. Following are some of the responses we received. Editor’s Note: Comments were edited for grammar and spelling. We love the Central Illinois Braggin` Rights BBQ competition in Arthur! – Christal Finch The Amish country of Arcola and Arthur and surrounding communities is a beautiful place to visit. Not only is the countryside picturesque, but the kindness of the people there make it so welcoming. I love to roam the roads there; stopping to enjoy the craftsmanship of the Amish woodworkers, the quilters, restaurants and farmer’s market while watching the farming progress through the season. What fortunate people we are to be in such close proximity with our Amish neighbors. A must visit on everyone’s list this summer! – Marilyn Barkley Yoder’s for lunch ... or dinner. It’s a great place! – Patsy Beckham Weiss The Bob Galloway Memorial Amish Country Bike Tour! Held in September. Cycling is the perfect way to experience and see the Amish countryside, along with a gorgeous time of year. The routes are well marked, SAG wagon available, and shorter (10 miles) to longer riding distances (60 and 100 miles). – Tana Willaredt
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want to go? Beachy’s is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Like all Amish-owned businesses, the store is closed on Sundays. They accept cash and local checks, but no credit cards, which hasn’t really been a problem, Beachy said. Beachy’s is located at 259 North County Road 200 East, Arthur. It’s about seven miles west of Arcola on Illinois Route 133 and 1½ miles south. Or
from Arthur, it’s two miles east on Illinois Route 133 and 1½ mile south. The telephone number is 217-543-3447.
Contact Miller at smiller@jg-tc.com or 217-238-6847.
Callers are asked to leave a voicemail message for a return phone call.
Located on Rt. 133 In Chesterville (217) 543-2894
Poly Furniture In Many Sizes Colors & Styles Vinyl Gazebos and Swing Sets • Wood Gazebos Arbors • Porch Swings • Outdoor Furniture Rockers and Gliders • Lighthouses • Bridges Garden Ornaments and Outdoor Decorations
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Getaway Guide – 17
Route 66 Offers Great Road Food By Stacy Conn, HERALD & REVIEW The old saying goes, “The easiest way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but what about a woman’s? Through my work with the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway I’ve fallen in love with Route 66 because of the wonderful “road food” I get to devour while exploring the history road. This is significant because I was born after the last sign for 66 was taken down, so everything is new to me. The people are the friendliest I’ve ever met and the living history is fascinating – but the food is heavenly. Traditionally, Americans are identified as having a car culture, but more and more we are gaining a reputation as foodies. With television shows like The Taste, Iron Chef, and Hell’s Kitchen gaining in popularity and television networks like the
Food Network gaining viewers, why not? I could write a whole book about all the places to eat along Route 66 just in Illinois (who knows one day I might) and there are numerous books written about the iconic restaurants such as Lou Mitchellís Restaurant, White Fence Farm, Polk-a-Dot Café, and Cozy Dog.
Jason Smith and his son Calder, 8, get a closer look at a 1937 Buick Friday, July 6, 2012, as part of First Friday in downtown Bloomington. (Pantagraph/CARLOS T. MIRANDA)
20521888
18 – Getaway Guide
For me, half of the fun of exploring the road is discovering a hidden gem. For example, near Chicago in McCook, Ill., is a small chain of restaurants called Steak-n-Egger (8408 Joliet Road). From the outside, it looks like any other road house; on the inside, itís like stepping back in time to a shiny new 1950’s diner. While they do serve
20520951
JG-TC • Herald&Review • Pantagraph
Bloomington-Normal Discover endless entertainment!
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6$/$+'+!1'%17'8#+"7%' +-+$"% 7$+!'9:';-$4<'*=+,->'+,-$%/? www.normal.org facebook.com/normal.org At the intersection of I-74, I-55 & I-39
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20520100
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Getaway Guide – 19
The General Store 319 N. Mill St., Pontiac 815-844-3983
“Where Hospitality Overflows” Serving Breakfast Lunch & Dinner Open 7 am Monday-Saturday
SOUVENIRS ROUTE 66 PONTIAC Key Chains, Mugs, Mousepads, Puzzles, Blankets, T-Shirts & More!
www.tgs-art.com
20520313
107 W. Madison, Pontiac
20520325
Stop In Today! We’re Open 7 Days a Week! • Candies and Fudge • Salsas • Crocks • Home Decor • Jewelry • Rt. 66 T Shirts & Pins • And so Much More!
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Old City Hall Shoppes Old City Hall Shoppes
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For more information go to: 218 N. Main www.visitpontiac.org For information on attractions, tours or retail space available in downtown Pontiac, contact: Pontiac –or– 815-844-5847 www.visitpontiac.org www.pontiacproud.org Hours: M-F 9-5; Sat-Sun 10-4 Antiques, Gifts & Route 66 Souvenirs
“VintageCharm for Modern Times” Antiques, Gifts & Route 66 Souvenirs
“VintageCharm fforor Modern Times”
Monday-Friday 10-5 Saturday 10-4 Tuesday-Friday 10-5• Saturday 10-4 EXPERIENCE LIVING HISTORY IN PONTIAC! Now open Sunday 12-4
Now open Sunday 12-4 Meet veterans & see military uniforms, weapons, displays, 321 N. Main Street • Pontiac books and videos from World War I to Afghanistan. www.oldcityhallshoppes. Free admission & parking. Elevator accessible. Open Monday - Saturday 10 - 4, Sunday 12 - 4 www.oldcityhallshoppes. blogspot.com blogspot.com 20520315 321 N. Main St. Pontiac IL 61764 next to Route 66 Museum
321 N. Main Street • Pontiac 20520308
Now open later…..New Store Hours: 10am to 8pm Monday thru Friday & Choose Once ‘n Again Choose Once ‘n Again 10am to 6pm Saturday 1.
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5000 sq shopping space in Pon ac www.oncenagain.com
2 Loca ons to serve you: 118 W Locust in Fairbury 123 W Madison in Pon ac
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Mall brand clothing for the family. Womens, mens, teens, and kids.
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Furniture and home décor in Fairbury. E-mail a pic of your furniture to sell Fairbury@oncenagain.com
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Name brand purses, scarves and more…
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Department Store selec on at a frac on of Department store prices. www.oncenagain.com 20520317
2013 Downtown Pontiac Events
For a complete list of upcoming events visit... pontiacproud.org (815) 844-6692 218 N. Main, Pontiac
May 2-5 Downtown Carnival Days May 25 Heritage Days/Pre-War Festival June 15 Summer Bash IV Proud 25th Year Celebration Oct. 11 & 12 Chocolate Fall Fantasy Nov. 7-10 Jolly Trolley Holiday Open House Nov. 29 Christmas Light Up Parade
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lunch and dinner, I have yet to make it past their omelettes. Heading south, you’ll eventually come upon Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket in Willowbrook, Ill. (645 Joliet Road). It started out as a gas station in the 1930s, but thanks to two local farm women who donated their chicken recipe, the restaurant was born. Yes, the chicken is great. I especially like the wings, but more and more I find myself ordering nothing more than the jalapeño and bacon mac ‘n cheese. It has been described to me as a lava flow of cheese and I can’t agree more. Hands down the best mac ‘n cheese I’ve ever had (sorry mom.) I usually get a deep fried slice of pie to go because I can’t resist. Further south, in Atlanta, Ill. about 20 miles south of Bloomington-Normal, there is a hidden little gem called the Palm’s Grill (110 SW Arch St.). It’s a 1930s diner that has been painstakingly restored. It also has the most amazing apple pie. Lumi Bekteshi, the head waitress, has become famous statewide for her delicious pies. I like to wash my slice down with a Route 66 Cream Soda, but other more conventional beverages are offered as well. Across the street is a huge statue of Paul Bunyan holding a hotdog, which makes a great photo opp to commemorate your gastronomic adventure. Hallie’s Restaurant (111 South Kickapoo) in Lincoln, Ill., serves up UFO-sized schnitzel – no really, it is that big. Even the sliders are huge. The family recipe for the schnitzel and the special sauce has been handed down for generations and is out of this world. The family who owns and op-
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, Illinois combines rigorous scholarship and high-tech showmanship to form the nation’s most popular and emulated presidential center. The Library side of the institution contains more than 12 million items pertaining to all aspects of Illinois history, including the world’s largest collection of original Lincoln materials. The Museum portion uses life-like figures and scenes, special effects, riveting presentation, and ghosts to bring Abraham Lincoln’s legacy to life like never before. 212 North Sixth Street, Springfield, IL 62701 Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM DAILY www.presidentlincoln.org (800) 610-2094
20522361
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Getaway Guide – 21
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22 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Getaway Guide
JG-TC â&#x20AC;˘ Herald&Review â&#x20AC;˘ Pantagraph
erates Hallie’s owned The Mill Restaurant, an iconic Route 66 destination back in the day. While walking back to your car, see if you can spot the phone booth on the roof of city hall. Finally, there’s Vic’s Pizza (2025 N. Peoria Road) in Springfield, home to the Route 66 Shaped Pizza, which is fantastic. But I go for the chili – not too
much tomato or spice, and refreshing even on the warmest of days. While there, stop by a few doors down to visit the Bill Shea Gas Station Museum (2075 N. Peoria Road). He is one of the most recognizable Route 66 icons and has amazing stories of Route 66 to share. His museum is a “pickers” dream and is filled with gas and oil memora-
There are various events this spring and summer that you can enjoy along the Mother Road. Here are some highlights The Red Carpet Corridor, May 4-5. The celebration includes 13 communities along a 90-mile stretch of Route 66 from Joliet to Towanda. Other communities include: downtown Joliet; Elwood; Wilmington; Braidwood; Godley; Braceville; Gardner; Dwight; Odell; Pontiac; Chenoa; and Lexington. Great food and family fun as you travel the historic road. Visit www.il66redcaroetcorridor.org. The Edwardsville Route 66 Festival, June 7-8. A festival of classic cars, lots of food, and fun. Held at the Edwardsville City Park in downtown Edwardsville, there is a car cruise, local talent show, childrenís activities, and a 10K race. Visit www.edwardsvilleroute66.com . The Berwyn Car Show, Sept. 7, staged along the strip in Berwyn, Illinois (Ogden Avenue between Oak Park Avenue and Ridgeland Avenue). Beautiful modern and classic cars on display and competing for awards. Visit www.berwynrt66.com. The International Mother Road Festival, Sept. 2729. The largest Route 66 festival in Illinois promises to be spectacular again this year. An estimated 1,000 cars and 80,000 spectators will roll into downtown Springfield for this family-fun event. Visit www.route66fest.com.
Tues.-Sat. 10-5 • Sun 1-5 Admission: $3 adult; $1 student
2013 EVENTS
Apple & Pork Festival Sept. 28th & 29th Santa Night - November 29th Candlelight Tours November 29th, December 6th,13th, 20th & 27th
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The U.S. Department of Transportation has designated certain roads as National Scenic Byways because of their special significance. Route 66 first came into being in 1926 as part of the new numbered highway system; it started in Chicago. In 2005, the organization became the nonprofit behind the nationally-designated Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway whose mission is to enhance and promote economic opportunities for communities along the route by preserving Route 66 heritage and increasing heritage and cultural tourism. The agency serves 90 Illinois communities – from Chicago to the Chain of Rocks Bridge near Madison; most have a population of about 2,500 or less. We help small businesses and attractions draw additional traffic by helping them develop their identities within a cohesive Route 66 brand, providing grants, and assisting communities and businesses apply for grants. We also help travelers find the best places to visit along Route 66 in Illinois.
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Maroa • U.S. 51 8 Miles North of Decatur (217) 794-2292 East Peoria • I-74 Exit 95 • North 3 Miles (309) 699-6231 www.fourwindsrv.com
20521880
219 E. Woodlawn, Clinton, IL • 217-935-6066 www.chmoorehomestead.org
ABOUT THE ILLINOIS ROUTE 66 SCENIC BYWAY
FOURWINDS RV
Open April - December
Tour the restored C.H. Moore Victorian Mansion and Farm Museum and visit our unique Gift Shop!
bilia. While traveling Route 66, it doesn’t matter when or how much you’ve eaten, there is always room for road food. So hop in the car and grab a bite and enjoy the “new” American culture – automobile cuisine. – Conn is project administrator for the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway.
100’S of RV’s at Low Prices! Getaway Guide – 23
State Parks By Lenore Sobota, THE PANTAGRAPH lsobota@pantagraph.com With its sandstone canyons, seasonal waterfalls, historic lodge and the Illinois River forming part of its border, Starved Rock State Park in north-central Illinois tends to get a lot of attention – and understandably so. The park, across the river from Utica, not far from interstates 39 and 80, is among the most visited parks in the state. It offers 13 miles of marked hiking trails, camping and boat ramps with access to the Illinois River. The trails lead to several tall overlooks with names such as Eagle Cliff, Lovers Leap and namesake Starved Rock. The visitors’ center has displays about the
Paige Cooper, 6, LeRoy; Amelia Creech, 6; Addison Creech, 2, and Mattie Cooper, 2, Dawson Lake, Thursday, August 19, 2010. Moraine View State Park. (The Pantagraph, David Proeber)
Lenny Glaub, of LeRoy, fixes the bib on one of his dogs while out on Dawson lake Saturday, Sept. 20, 2008, at Moraine View State Park near LeRoy. (The Pantagraph/CARLOS T. MIRANDA)
area’s history and frequently offers programs and guided hikes. Its sister park immediately to the south, Matthiessen State Park, has hiking and equestrian/mountain biking trails. Hikers can explore a deep canyon with a creek fed by Matthiessen Lake, which feeds into the Vermilion River. East-central Illinois has a fair share of state parks and natural areas offering a variety of activities, from boating and fishing to camping and hiking as well as horseback riding.
MORAINE VIEW STATE RECREATION AREA
CHARLESTON’S
RESALE
This site near LeRoy is the home of 158acre Dawson Lake, which has a beach/swimming area in addition to fishing and boating. The camping facilities include backpacking and equestrian camping areas. A self-guided nature trail is part of the hiking trail system.
DEPARTMENT STORE FURNISH YOUR HOME FROM FLOOR TO CEILING!
Apparel Fashion For All Ages! Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Merchandise accepted by appointment only 960 18th Street, Charleston
217-348-5803 24 – Getaway Guide
Pilot Paul Reynolds of Mansfield applies fungicide to 380 acres on Larry Borhart's farm 1/4 mile East of Morain View State Park., Wednesday, July 4, 2012. (For The Pantagraph, Jim Finch) JG-TC • Herald&Review • Pantagraph
Central Illinois’ newest cultural destination
CLINTON LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA Three miles east of Clinton, the 9,300-acre site is operated under a long-term lease with Exelon Nuclear, which operates a nearby nuclear power plant. The site has a
NEW SEASON BEGINS JULY 2013 Free Parking World-Class Venues Group Rates Available No Ticket Over $20.00 Convenient On-line Ticketing
In this photo taken April 10, 2012, Melissa Blasen, from Clinton, Ill., walks along a two-mile loop through Weldon Springs State Park in Clinton. A new proposal would allow the state to charge visitors an annual or daily fee to park in the state parks, no more than $25 for the annual admission and around $5 to $8 for a daily pass. Illinois is among seven states with free state park admissions. (AP Photo/Shannon McFarland)
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doudna fine arts center charleston, il www.eiu.edu/doudna 217-581-3110 email: doudna@eiu.edu like us on facebook
Getaway Guide – 25
beach, swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, picnicking, camping and equestrian trails. Although the lake attracts the most attention, the miles of hiking trails are another way to view the area. The 9.3-mile North Fork Trail is particularly challenging, rising and falling steeply Herald & Review/Jim Bowling Competitor Randy Howell of Springville, through ravines Alabama, the Bassmaster’s Evan Williams and heavily Bourbon All-Star Championship, Eagle Creek wooded areas. State Park on Lake Shelbyville.
Charleston’s
WELDON SPRINGS STATE PARK
Favorite Restaurant
Just southeast of Clinton, the park offers boating (electric motors only), fishing, hiking and camping, including a few backpacking sites. The old Union School, built in 1865 and used as a school for 80 years,
Full Breakfast Menu Daily Lunch Specials Sandwiches Salads Homemade Desserts Freshly Baked Muffins Beer and Wine
“Home of Strawberry Bread”
409-7th Street, Charleston • 217-345-7427
www.whatscookin.info 7 Blocks North of “Old Main” on 7th Street and Just 1 Block North of Our Beautiful, Historic Town Square. 26 – Getaway Guide
JG-TC • Herald&Review • Pantagraph
continues its educational function as an interpretive center with “hands-on” learning. The schoolhouse
trail includes 80 bluebird houses and surrounds a prairie undergoing restoration, which attracts
butterflies and dragonflies.
WALNUT POINT STATE PARK Boating is limited to boats with electric trolling motors only at this park 20 miles east of Charleston. Fishing, hiking and camping are among other activities.
(217) 348-8161 www.uniquesuiteshotel.com
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EAGLE CREEK STATE RECREATION AREA AND WOLF CREEK STATE PARK Located near Lake Shelbyville, Wolf Creek is eight miles east of Windsor and Eagle Creek is four miles east of Findley. In addition to boating and fishing on the 11,000-acre lake, the sites have hiking, picnicking, camping and equestrian trails.
HIDDEN SPRINGS STATE FOREST Ten miles southeast of Shelbyville, Hidden Springs offers picnicking, camping, fishing and hiking. There are access trails to Rocky Spring and Quicksand Spring.
FOX RIDGE STATE PARK This park, eight miles south
of Charleston, is known for its rugged, scenic hiking trails – some of which are steep – along the Embarras River. There are 18 picturesque wooded bridge and numerous rest benches. You might need a rest if you climb the 144 steps to the Eagle’s Nest observation deck. The park also offers picnicking, camping, fishing and boating.
LINCOLN TRAIL STATE PARK Boating, fishing, camping and hiking are available at Lincoln Trail, two miles south of Marshall. Outboard motors are limited to 10 horsepower.
SAM PARR FISH & WILDLIFE AREA The lake at Sam Parr is limited to boats with motors of 10 horsepower or less and is popular with canoe paddlers. There are 13 miles of equestrian trails in addition to hiking trails, picnic shelters and campsites. Fishing is also allowed. The site is three miles northeast of Newton. On the Net: http://dnr.state.il.us/lands/lan dmgt/parks/
150th Anniversary of the Charleston Riot March 28-30, 2014 Civil War Encampment Leading Civil War speakers & authors Harold Holzer, Lincoln Historian Riot Reenactment, Original Play Vendors, Historical Tours, Period Music For more information, visit www.charlestonillinoisriot.org or The Charleston Riot on Facebook® jg-tc.com • herald-review.com • pantagraph.com
Herald & Review/Jim Bowling Competitors and attendees stand for the playing of the National Anthem before the start of the first day of the Bassmaster’s Evan Williams Bourbon All-Star Championship Thursday morning at Eagle Creek State Park on Lake Shelbyville.
Getaway Guide – 27
By Tony Reid, HERALD & REVIEW H&R Staff Writer
Museums Highlight Central IL DECATUR | With the upper level of the Children’s Museum of Illinois the scene of multiple crime scenes, the game was afoot. And, as luck would have it, the Decatur museum was also host to a whole Scotland Yard full of young detectives more than 30, plus moms and dads who set about tracking down the bad guys. The occasion for this frenzy of crime and detection was a new program called Family Science Sunday. The second Sunday of each month in 2013 will be given over to exploring a scientific topic pitched to appeal to audiences age 3 to 12 and the first subject in the series, which kicked off in January,
was called, not surprisingly, “Whodunit?” The aim was to teach kids the basics of forensic science in a relaxed, nongory atmosphere that was kind of like Sesame Street meets CSI. The young detectives used everything from microscopes and hair and fingerprint analysis to find which among a motley crew of suspects, including a dog and a suspiciouslooking cat, had shamelessly stolen a gift that wasnít theirs. All of the teachers for Family Science Sunday are faculty members from Decatur’s Richland Community College, and Sunday’s visiting expert was Tod Treat. He’s actually vice president of student and
academic services at the college but is a chemist by training and developed a forensic science course at his previous college before coming to Richland. Family Science Sunday is funded through a sponsorship deal with Archer Daniels Midland Co. and several other corporate backers, and this allows the museum to stage the events without extra charge. treid@herald-review.com (217) 421-7977
IF YOU GO For more details about Family Science Sunday and other museum activities, call 423-5437.
Central Illinois Museums
Ph# (217)348-8824 Open Tues. - Fri. 10am to 5pm Sat. 10am to 3pm Visit us online at www.persimmonlane.etsy.com
Arcola Illinois Amish Museum Rockome Gardens 125 N. County Road 425E (217) 268-4106; www.rockome.com
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Prices: $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 children Visitors can also tour Rockome Gardens stores, take a train or buggy ride and walk through gardens. Atwood Harris Agricultural Museum 521 N. Illinois St. (217) 578-3040; www.harriscompanies.com/images/Harri sMuseum.htm
Vintage, Antiques, Retro & More 510 6th Street West Side of Square Charleston, Illinois
(618) 483-6397; www.wrightmansion.org Hours: 2 to 4 p.m. Sundays Prices: $5 adults, $1 children The house is on the National Register of Historic Places.
From industry to history, a tourist in Central Illinois may choose from a variety of museums and historic sites to suit their interest. Not into history? Donít worry. These sites also have many exhibits that focus on the present and future, as well. Altamont Dr. Charles M. Wright House Corner of North Main Street and Jackson Avenue
Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday Free. Exhibits include agriculture displays such as a Model “T” Ford grain truck, early grain elevator office and farming exhibits. Bloomington David Davis Mansion 1000 Monroe Drive (309) 828-3493; www.daviddavismansion.org
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. Prices: $4 adults,
Mid-Century & Danish Modern Furniture
• Fresh Ingredients • Daily Lunch Specials • 20 Specialty Martinis Located at 7th and Lincoln, Charleston 217-512-2050 www.dirtysbarandgrill.com 28 – Getaway Guide
1721 Jackson Ave. Charleston, IL 61920
217 345-5111
SwankyRetro.com JG-TC • Herald&Review • Pantagraph
Free. Memorabilia from throughout the county is studied, interpreted and exhibited for visitors. Krannert Art Museum 500 E. Peabody Dr. (217) 244-0516; www.kam.illinois.edu
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday; 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday Free. Exhibits and collections from all over of the world are on display to encourage learning. Orpheum Children’s Science Museum 346 N. Neil St. (217) 352-5895; An upstairs bedroom of the C.H. Moore Homestead in Clinton, during Christmas at the Homestead "Images of Christmas", on Saturday, Nov. 24, 2012. (The Pantagraph/Steve Smedley)
$2 children. David Davis was a judge whose influence on Abraham Lincoln’s career was fundamental to the future president’s success. McLean County Arts Center 601 N. East St. (309) 829-0011; www.mcac.org Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday; noon to 4 p.m. Saturday Free. Visitors can experience educational programs, exhibits and area festivals. McLean County Museum of History 200 N. Main St. (309) 827-0428; www.mchistory.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday Prices: $5 adults, $4 seniors, children free
www.orpheumkids.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday Prices: $4 adults, $3 children
The museum houses exhibits, programs and photos, as well as archived historical material. Prairie Aviation Museum 2929 E. Empire St. (309) 663-7632; www.prairieaviationmuseum.org
Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; noon to 4 p.m. Sunday Prices: $5 adults, $2 ages 6 to 11, Free age 5 and younger. Visitors are encouraged to touch the displays and aircrafts while visiting with members of the aviation community. Champaign Champaign County Historical Museum 102 E. University Ave. (217) 356-1010; www.champaignmuseum.org
Hours: noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
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Getaway Guide – 29
The museum is designed to educate and inspire children through science and the arts. William M. Staerkel Planetarium 2400 W. Bradley Ave. (217) 351-2568;
The Style through the Ages, Luncheon & Style Show to benefit the Children's Discovery Museum was held in the Illinois State University Bone Student Center Ballroom on Friday, Feb. 22, 2013. (The Pantagraph /STEVE SMEDLEY)
www2.parkland.edu/planetarium
Show hours: 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday Prices: $5 adults, $4 children and seniors The 50-foot dome is offers visitors the opportunity to view the stars, the sun and the moon, as well as views from any point on earth. Charleston Lincoln-Douglas Debate Museum Coles County Fairgrounds Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Herald & Review/Jim Bowling From left, engineer David Harp, student engineer Matthew Clayton and student engineer Alison McCrady observe a successful test run from a Garfield Montessori School teamís Rube Goldberg machine during the Rube Goldberg competition at the Childrenís Museum of Illinois Saturday.
(217) 581-2787;
(217) 348-8043 Free. The museum is an exhibit documenting the 1858 debate between Illinois senators Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas.
www.eiu.edu/tarble
The Tarble Arts Museum offers a changing art exhibit, as well as educational programs, demonstrations, concerts and plays.
Tarble Arts Museum On the campus of Eastern Illinois University, 600 Lincoln Ave. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday; 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday.
30 – Getaway Guide
Clinton C.H. Moore Homestead/DeWitt County Museum 219 W. Woodlawn St. (217) 935-6066; www.chmoorehomestead.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 1 to 5
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interactive experience for children of all ages. Through hands-on activities, visitors will try out experiments with science, arts and humanities.
ED BAUMGARTEN, Mid America Motorworks
Hieronymus Mueller Museum 420 W. Eldorado St. (217) 423-6161; www.muellermuseum.org
Hours: 1 to 4 p.m. ThursdaySaturday Hieronymus Mueller was an immigrant from Germany who founded the Mueller Co. Find out the history of this famous inventor/innovator and his family.
p.m. Sunday Prices: $3 adults, $1 children ages 12-18, free for children 12 and younger. Clifton Haswell Moore was the first lawyer to practice in Clinton and a friend to Abraham Lincoln. Danville Vermilion County Museum 116 N. Gilbert St. (217) 442-2922; www.vermilioncountymuseum.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday Prices: $2.50 adults, $1 ages 13-17 Also available for tours is the 19th century Fithian Home, located in the back yard of the museum. Vermilion County War Museum 307 N. Vermilion St. (217) 431-0034; www.vcwm.org/ Hours: noon to 3 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday Prices: $2 adults; $1 children The historic building houses artifacts from wars from more than 200 years. Decatur African-American Cultural and
Genealogical Society of Illinois Museum 314 N. Main St. (217) 429-7458; www.african-americancultural.org
Hours: 1:30 to 5 p.m., Monday, Wednesday and Friday; 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday Price: $2 adults, $1 students The museum provides visitors with resources of African American history through workshops, displays, contests and special events.
Children’s Museum of Illinois 55 S. Country Club Road (217) 423-5437; www.cmofil.org Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday Prices: $5 ages 2 and older The museum is an
Macon County History Museum and Prairie Village 5580 N. Fork Road (217) 422-4919; www.mchsdecatur.org
Hours: 1 to 4 p.m. TuesdaySaturday Prices: $2 adults, $1 children 12 and younger Visitors will experience life in the prairie during 1800s through interactive displays and exhibits.
Take A Step Back In Time We have a variety of vendors
Birks Museum Campus of Millikin University, 1184 W. Main St. (217) 424-6337 Hours: 1 to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday Free. Located in the universityís historic Gorin Hall, the museum houses works of art and crafts. Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum 3635 U.S. Route 36 East 1-888-926-9843; www.chevrolethalloffamemuseum.com
Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday Prices: $7 per person or $35 for season pass
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Plenty of Antiques to choose from Come Visit us... We know you will be pleasantly surprised! SANDERS HARRISTOWN DEPOT ANTIQUES 1190 N. Meridian • Harristown, IL 62537 • 217-963-3029 Th-Sa: 10a-5p, Su: 12-5p
Travel with Fourwinds behind You!
MAROA and EAST PEORIA, IL Get Away while keeping the comforts of home!
15277 N.Wood St. Maroa, IL 61756 Maroa Exit off U.S. 51 | 217-794-2292 www.fourwindsrv.com Getaway Guide – 31
ckson-mounds-museum-2
Effingham Cross at the Crossroads 1904 Pike Ave. (217) 347-2846; www.CrossUSA.org Hours: November through March, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily; April through October, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Volunteers are usually at the site during these hours, but call ahead to make sure. Travelers can visit the Midwest’s tallest cross, located near Interstates 57 and 70. Mid America Motorworks 17082 N. U.S. Highway 45 1-800-500-1500;
Lerna Lincoln Log Cabin 402 S. Lincoln Highway (217) 345-1845; www.lincolnlogcabin.org
Hours: November through March: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday; April and May: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday; Memorial Day through Labor Day: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week; September through October: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday The site offers visitors the experience of 19th century life. A short film about the life of the Lincolns precedes the tour.
www.mamotorworks.com
Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday This collection of vehicles has been rated one of the top 50 in the country.
Lewistown Dickson Mounds Museum 10956 N. Dickson Mounds Road (309) 547-3721; www.experienceemiquon.com/content/di
Riding in a coach built for the Rock Island Lines, Robert White holds his grandson, Stuart Holmes, 5, as they enjoy the ride along the Monticello Railway Museum. ''This is the fourth time we've riden this summer, we go at least three or four times a season,'' said White. Pantagraph/STEVE SMEDLEY
Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Free As a unique archaeological museum, this museum offers visitors opportunities to explore the American Indian travels through the Illinois River Valley. Lincoln Heritage in Flight Museum 1351 Airport Road (217) 732-3333; www.heritageinflight.org
During World War II, Campus Ellis housed the barracks in the current museum. Military and aviation displays from all military wars and conflicts are shown along with various aviation artifacts. Call for hours of operation. Mahomet Museum of the Grand Prairie 950 N. Lombard (217) 586-2612; www.museumofthegrandprairie.org
Hours: March 1 to May 31: 1 to 5 p.m. daily; June 1 to Aug. 31: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday; Sept. 1 to Dec. 31: 1 to 5 p.m. daily. Free. Interactive stations, exhibits and educational programs are just a few programs visitors can experience while visiting this museum. Monticello Monticello Railway Museum 992 Iron Horse Place Opened weekends only from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. No holidays. (217) 762-9011; www.mrym.org From May through October, the museum offers train rides at two locations, at the museum site and in downtown Monticello. Visitors can walk through the railway cars and other exhibits. Special events are held throughout the year. For the
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train schedule or the list of events, call the museum or visit the website. Pana Carnegie-Schuyler Library 303 E. Second St. (217) 562-2326; www.panalibrary.com
Hours: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Thursday and Friday; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday The library was designed by Andrew Carnegie, but is still a current library with exhibits and programs. Pana History Museum 2nd and Oak streets (217) 820-1429 The museum houses many artifacts that show the impact of the city’s development such as the railroads, coal mines and greenhouses. Paris Bicentennial Art Center and Museum 132 S. Central Ave. (217) 466-8130; www.parisartcenter.com
Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday Free. Abraham Lincoln and his rival, Stephan Douglas, were friends and visitors to this historic home’s original owner, Milton Alexander. Petersburg Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site 15588 History Lane (217) 632-4000; www.lincolnsnewsalem.com
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; closed Monday and Tuesday during the off season Free. The site portrays the lifestyle of Abraham Lincolnís life as a young adult. The park has a full restaurant, performance theater and walking trails.
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The town of Broadwell cerelbrated Ernie Edwards' service to the area with the dedication of a sign to mark his Pig-Hip Restaurant, Sunday, August, 5, 2012, along Route 66. (The Pantagraph, David Proeber)
Children line up on the Route 66 walking trail in Lexington for the Mother's Day Children's Parade Sunday afternoon May 8, 2011. (The Pantagraph/LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER) (May 8, 2011)
Pontiac Livingston County War Museum 321 N. Main St. (815) 842-0301 Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday; noon to 4 p.m., Sunday Free. The museum is staffed by military veterans and history buffs. Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum 205 N. Mill St. (815) 842-2345; www.pontiacoaklandmuseum.org/
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday Free. The largest collection of Pontiac and Oakland
(217) 893-1613 ext. 22; www.aeromuseum.org.
The former Chanute Air Force Base is home to military and civilian aviation and aerospace artifacts. Visitors can learn about air travel through flight simulators, exhibits, special air events and more.
vehicles are housed at the museum, along with artifacts, maps and original designs. Route 66 Association Hall of Fame and Museum 110 W. Howard St. (815) 844-4566; www.il66assoc.org
The Hall of Fame features memorabilia from the historic Mother Road. Rantoul Chanute Air Museum 1011 Pacesetter Drive Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Prices: $10 adults, $8 seniors and active or retired military, $5 students, Free to children ages 4 and younger
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Springfield Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum 212 N. Sixth St. (217) 558-8934; www.alplm.org Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Prices: $12 adults, $9 seniors and students, $7 active military, $6 children ages 515, free to children younger than 5 The museum chronicles the life and legacy of the United States 16th president with exhibits, performances and artifacts. The museum also hosts temporary exhibits throughout the year. Air Combat Museum 835 S. Airport Road (217) 522-2181 Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April through September; 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. October through March Prices: $20 for a guided tour
The museum displays combat aircraft and military vehicles. Dana-Thomas House 301 E. Lawrence Ave. (217) 782-6776 Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday Prices: $10 adults, $5 children, $15 families Frank Lloyd Wright designed the famous house for socialite Susan Lawrence Dana in 1902. The house has the largest collection of Wright art glass and furniture collection. Illinois State Fire Museum Illinois State Fairgrounds, Old Firehouse (217) 524-8754 Hours by appointment Free The museum houses several fire vehicles dating back to 1857, as well as exhibits and memorabilia. Illinois State Military Museum 1301 N. MacArthur Blvd. (217) 782-9365 Hours: 1 to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday Free The museum houses the history of the Illinois military
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through displays, unusual artifacts and stories. Illinois State Museum 502 S. Spring St. (217) 782-7386 or www.museum.state.il.us/ Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Saturday; noon to 5 p.m., Sunday. Free According to the website: “The Illinois State Museum is a system of museums and galleries serving the people of Illinois. The Museums foster an appreciation of the living world, introduce the art of Illinois, open windows to education, and protect irreplaceable state treasures.” Illinois State Capitol Second and Capitol streets (217) 782-2099 Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Free Visitors are allowed to watch when lawmakers are in session. The offices of the governor, secretary of state and other heads of state are housed in this building. Korean War National Museum 9 Old State Capital Plaza 1-888-419-5053 or www.kwnm.org/
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday Free. According to the website: “The museum is far beyond a collection of war memorabilia and artifacts rather a collection of historically significant pieces and supporting stories that bring to life a conflict that partnered nations from around the world to combat the expansion of communism.” Lincoln Home National Historic Site
413 S. Eighth St. Visitor Center, 426 S. Seventh St. (217) 391-3226; www.nps.gov/liho Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Free, but a ticket is required from the Visitor Center. Visit the home of Abraham Lincoln and his family before he left for Washington D.C. Lincoln Tomb Oakridge Cemetery, 1500 Monument Ave. (217) 782-2717; www.lincolntomb.org
Hours: March through October: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; November through February: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The final resting place for the countryís 16th president is located in the Oakridge Cemetery, as well as war memorials honoring the troops sent from Illinois. Old State Capitol Old State Capitol Plaza, Sixth and Capitol streets (217) 785-7960 Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday From 1839 to 1876, the building housed the Illinois government during Lincolnís time as a politician. Teutopolis Teutopolis Monastery Museum St. Francis of Assisi Church, 110 S. Garrott St. (217) 857-3586 or www.stfrancischurch.com/newsite/wordp ress/?page_id=173
Hours: 12:30 to 4 p.m. on the first Sunday of the month, April through November Prices: $3 adults, $1 children Located on the second floor of the church, the museum has more than 30 rooms with articles, books and Bibles on display.
Hours: 4 to 8 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday; 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday Free. The museum features exhibits, special events and programs. Urbana Spurlock Museum On the University of Illinois campus, 600 S. Gregory St. (217) 333-2360; www.spurlock.illinois.edu
Hours: noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday-Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday; noon to 4 p.m. Sunday Free. Exhibits representing cultures from around the world can be view through five different galleries. The museum also offers tours, educational programs and events. Vandalia Fayette County Museum 301 W. Main St. (618) 283-4866;
National Road Interpretive Center 106 S. Fifth St. (618) 283-9380; www.nationalroadvandalia.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday National Road was America’s first highway built by the federal government. Visitors will learn the story of the “Road that Built the Nation.” Vandalia State House 315 W. Gallatin St. (618) 283-1161 Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday Free. Visitors can tour the oldest Illinois State Capitol building and view the historic structure. Watseka Old County Courthouse Museum 103 W. Cherry St. (815) 432-2215; http://www.iroquoiscounty.net/museum/
http://www.vandaliaillinois.com/museum. html
Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday; 1 to 4 p.m., Sunday Free. Artifacts and memorabilia from Vandalia’s days as the state capitol are on display in the museum.
Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Friday Free. Prices: $10 per person or $15 per family The old courthouse houses exhibits dating back to the 1800s, as well as current exhibits.
Senator Barack Obama announced Senator Joe Biden, his vice-presidential running mate during a campaign rally near the steps of the old state capitol in Springfield, IL, August 23, 2008. Obama started his bid for the presidency in the same spot, 18 months ago. (The Pantagraph, David Proeber)
Tuscola Douglas County Museum 700 S. Main St. (217) 253-2535; www.docomuseum.org
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ADVERTISEMENT
The Old English Meets Modern Effingham
Located in Effingham, the Union Jack Antiques & Country Accents shop opened its door in September of 2012. Upon arrival, as you walk through the doors the old servant’s bell rings, transporting you back to the English countryside. From there you are greeted with fine tall case clocks, linen presses, chimney pots and old copper pots as well as the shopkeeper Jessica Moreton. It is her passion to bring into people’s homes the things she loves and make them their own, reflecting their own unique style with a diverse collection of items that are
mixed with the new and the old to form a cohesive look. As you gaze through the shop you can’t help but notice the large collection of oil paintings, pub signs, and prints casing the walls. Many are originals from the early 1900’s. As you continue on, you can’t help but catch the scent of apple spice in the air reminding you of the old world just like it was like on the English countryside. You are once aging surrounded by an assortment of old antiques and new pottery including those from Mason Case and Emma Bridgewater. Continue on and enjoy a whimsical journey through time while you browse cupboards filled with authentic English jams, jellies, chocolate, toffee, sweets, and outstanding teas. Union Jack also offers delicacies such as lemon curd jam, orange marmalade, and shortbread cookies. The mystique of
Union Jack is constantly changing, with a mixture of old European antiques, home accessories, and unique gift ideas, a must visit for anyone who needs to add a personal touch to their home.
Presenting Antiques from: Staffordshire and Yorkshire, England, UK. Fine Mahogany Furniture - Linen Presses, Hall Tree’s Pine Dresser Bases, Blanket Boxes, Cricket Tables, Step-Back Cupboards, Original Pub Tables, Pub Signs, Teas, Jams, Candies, shortbread cookies, Copper, teacups, teapots, Oak and Pine Settles Country Wardrobes Victorian Chimney Pots Painted Country Furniture Staffordshire Dogs, Oils and Prints, Dolls Tall Case Clocks, Shelf Clocks, 2000 sq. ft. of antiques, including Emma Bridgewater New Pottery and Mason Case. Finally, a selection of new Country Accents brings it all together. Looking forward to meeting you,
Jessica Moreton
Member of Effingham Chamber of Commerce
800 S. HENRIETTA ST. EFFINGHAM, IL 62401 217-342-2700
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Getaway Guide – 35
CENTRAL ILLINOIS WINERIES & VINEYARDS ur climate and rich soil has proved inviting for any number of grape growers and lovers of the grape, as well as a growing number of grain-based microbreweries. (The craft spirit movement has eeked into Illinois, but only to the far north.) As you set upon your travels, you should know that not every winery has its own vineyard, but most vineyards have their own wineries. The microbreweries are a mix of higher-end restaurants and those with a more pub-like feel. As always, designate a driver who will not imbibe. The following information comes from our friends at the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Association, which represents more than 100 wineries and 450 vineyards across the state, and from Midwestmicrobrews.com. Typical of the very localized nature of vineyards and wineries, most do not have websites.
217-534-6347 Decatur: Five Guys Growing Grapes, 2300 S. Twin Bridge Road; 217-864-9896
WINERIES, VINEYARDS
www.sleepycreekvineyards.com
Listed by Central Illinois town: Carlock: White Oak Vineyards, 8621 E. 2100 North Road; 309-376-3027
Findlay: Niemerg Family Winery, 301 S. Main St.; 217756-5521
Champaign: Alto Vineyards, 4210 N. Duncan Road; 217356-4784 Clinton: D’Anetti Vineyard, 1205 W. Webster; 217-8480765 Coffeen: Forsee Vineyard & Winery, 18165 N. Fourth St.;
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St. Joseph: Red Tail Vineyard, 1377 County Road 1700 North; 217-469-0223
Marshall: Castle Finn Vineyard & Winery, 1288 N. 1200th St. 217-463-2600; www.castlefinnwinery.com
Decatur: Long Creek Vineyards, 7135 E. Firehouse Road; 217-521-6297; www.longcreekvineyards .com
Decatur: Twin Bridge Vineyard, 2666 Prestwick; 217429-6125 Effingham: Tuscan Hills Winery, 2200 Historic Hills Drive; 217-347-9463; www.effinghamwinery.com
El Paso: Wolf Creek Vineyard & Winery, 2781 County Road 1300 North; 309-527-3674 El Paso: Wolf Creek Vineyard & Winery, 2853 County Road 1400 North; 309-527-3531 Fairbury: Heide Vineyard, 533 S. Fifth St.; 815-692-2413 Fairmount: Sleepy Creek Vineyards, 8254 E. 1425 North Road, Fairmount; 217733-0330;
Mattoon: Legacy Winery, 2401 Commercial Ave..; 217-2461042 Newton: Jasper Ridge Vineyard, 8659 N. 1250th St.; 618-783-3103
Olney: Fox Creek Vineyards, 5502 N. Fox Road; 618-3920418; www.foxcreekwinery.com Rantoul: Sleepy Creek, 1320 Harmon Drive; 217-893-4878 Shelbyville: Willow Ridge Vineyards & Winery, R.R. 2; 217-738-2323;
Stewardson: Vahling Vineyards, 1¼ miles west of Route 32 on County Road 400N; 217-682-5409; www.vahlingvineyards.com
MICROBREWERIES Bloomington: Illinois Brewing Co., 102 N. Center St. No. 111; 309-829-2805;
Niota: Spillman Creek, 1355 E. County Road 2600; 217755-4405
www.willowridgewinery.com
Warrensburg: Heman Valley Vineyard, 9381 W. Wise Road; 217-672-8287
home.mchsi.com/~peewee101/ibc/ibc.ht ml.
Champaign: The Blind Pig Brewery, 120 N. Neil St.; 217-398-5133; www.blindpigbrewery.com/brewery.html.
Champaign: Destihl (“distill”) Restaurant & Brew Works, 301 N. Neil St.; 217-3560301; http://destihl.com/Champaign_IL.html.
Normal: Destihl Restaurant & Brew Works; 318 S. Towanda Ave.; 309-862-2337; http://destihl.com/DESTIHL_Normal.html.
Red Bud: Kaskaskia Brewing Co., 105 E. Market St.; 618282-2555; www.kaskaskiabrewing.com.
Greenup: Cameo Vineyards, 400 Mill Road; 217-9239963; www.cameowine.com Kappa: Coyote Ridge Vineyard, 205 S. Second St.; 309527-5933 Mackinaw: Mackinaw Valley Vineyard, 33633 Ill. Route 9; 309-359-WINE; www.mackinawvalleyvineyard.com
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East Central Illinois Wine Trail By BILL LAIR, JG-TC Owner Dan Webb, pictured at the tasting counter at Cameo Vineyards in Greenup, Ill., on Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2013. (Journal Gazette/ Times-Courier, Kevin Kilhoffer)
Wine lovers are the beneficiaries of the dry weather in East Central Illinois last summer. Grapes love dry weather, several local vintners said, meaning the grape crop in the area was excellent in 2012. The result will be some tasty wines in 2013 and beyond, produced by the wineries along the East Central Illinois Wine Trail. There are nine wineries on the East Central Illinois Wine Trail, with most growing their own grapes to produce their unique Illinois wines. The hot summers and cold winters determine which varieties of grapes do well in this area. Wine made from grapes in the region have a unique taste, certainly different from wine made in California and New York. Varieties of grapes that thrive in this area of Illinois include Chambourcin, Rougon, Norton, Concord and Steuben, jg-tc.com • herald-review.com • pantagraph.com
all good for making red wine; and Cayuga, Niagara, Vidal Blanc and Villard Blanc, each a grape used to make white wine. And all are able to prosper in Illinois’ up-and-down seasonal temperatures. “The 2012 growing season was good for grapes,” said Rob Morgan of Castle Finn Winery near Marshall in Clark County. “They like dry ground. It was a very good year. The yields were up, the sweetness levels were up. We had to add less sugar.” “We had rain early,” said Dennis Vahling of Vahling Vineyards near Stewardson in Shelby County. “It was great. From the end of June to the end of August it was dry. By that time, the grapes are as big as they are going to get. They are just producing sugar.” Dan Webb of Cameo Vineyards in Getaway Guide – 37
Greenup in Cumberland County said the increased sugar level due to the dry weather in 2012 will mean concentrated flavor in the wine to be made from that crop. Much of the white wine served in 2013 will be from the outstanding 2012 grape crop. Reds served this year most likely will be from 2011 or earlier. The skin of most red grapes is thicker so it takes a little more aging to smooth out the taste, Webb said. That bodes well for red wines released in 2014. Most area wineries offer about 15 different wines, ranging from fruit and sweet wines to whites and dry reds. If sweet wine is your favorite, you will fit right in with the wine lovers of the area. Morgan, Webb and Vahling all said sweet wines are their top sellers. “We sell more sweet
wines,” Cameo’s Webb said. “The grapes that do well here
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lend themselves to sweet and semi-sweet wines.” And the grapes that grow in East Central Illinois also lend themselves to wines with such distinct local names as White Satin, Prairie White, Prairie Mist and Prairie Dawn, plus Red Brick Road, Blizzard Ford Blush, Grandview Nights, and Embarras Blush, Kissing Bridge and National Road Red. The Webbs, Morgans and Vahlings all are or were traditional Illinois farmers who enjoyed winemaking as a hobby before launching their wineries.
Webb, one of the original members of the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Association, began planting grapes in 1992. He and his wife, Sonya, opened Cameo Winery 10 years later, in March 2002. They experimented with about 40 varieties of grapes before narrowing their choice to five varieties on their seven acres of vineyards. “We have sandy ground here that is very well-suited to grapes,” he said of Cameo’s hillside location above the Embarras River. “You often see vineyards and orchards on hills,” he
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217-347-0477 effinghamvillagewine.com
38 – Getaway Guide
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Vahling said. “Sales of dry wine is increasing. “Every winery has its own definition of what is sweet,” he said. “We usually recommend people who are tasting start with a semi-sweet and move from there.” Morgan’s Castle Finn Winery said about 80 percent of the folks who visit his winery prefer sweet wine. “Niagara is our best grower,” he said. “It just works in this soil and seems to thrive. Niagara makes a sweet white wine. Itís the best-selling grape wine we have.” The Niagara grape is used to make Moonlight Minuet, a full-flavor sweet white wine at Castle Finn. Castle Finn is one of the newest vineyards in the area. The vines are seven years old, while Castle Finn has been open
said. “It makes for good water drainage and the air movement helps prevent the late spring and early fall frosts.” Vahling, a former hog farmer, first planted grapes in 1997 and also began selling wine in 2002. He enjoyed making wine for family and friends before starting his wine business. “I like making my own and sharing it with others,” he said. “It’s the joy of making your own product.” “I had been making wine for 15 years at
home,” Castle Finn’s Morgan said. “Thatís where I got the passion and desire to open a winery.” Webb, at Cameo, also likes making wine from vine to bottle. “I’m very flattered when people compliment us or say our wine is consistent,” he said. “A lot of it has to do with us being in control of the raw product – our grapes. We control the quality of the grapes. This is what makes our wines special. We are interested in quality.” Morgan said his
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about two and a-half years. Other wineries in the area include Tuscan Hills Winery in Effingham, Niemerg Family Winery in Findlay and Willow Ridge Vineyards & Winery west of Shelbyville. In addition, there are the Berryville Vineyards in Claremont in Lawrence County, Fox Creek Vineyards at Olney and Lasata Winery at Lawrenceville. Visitors can taste wines at the various wineries and purchase bottles of their favorites on site. The Cameo Winery overlooks acres of vineyards from the tasting room made from Webb’s grandfather’s barn. “We were ‘green’ and ‘repurposing’
grapes also are all local. “We crush them the same day they are picked, or close to it,” he said. “Sometimes we pick them in the morning and crush them in the evening.” Crushed grapes are fermented and sit in airtight vats for a year or more before being bottled. While sweet wines have been the top sellers at Vahling Vineyards, the owner senses a change. “Some who used to drink sweet wine are now switching to dry,” Getaway Guide – 39
Owner Dan Webb demonstrates taking a sample using a wine thief at Cameo Vineyards in Greenup, Ill., on Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2013. (Journal Gazette/ Times-Courier, Kevin Kilhoffer)
before it was popular,” he said, smiling. The winery name also is repurposed. Webb had a favorite Chevrolet Cameo pickup truck when he was younger. When he opened the winery, that favorite pickup became the new name. Morgan knows Castle Finn is “off the beaten path” but says that is by design. “Its got some ambience,” he said. “Some people want to get away and not hear the sounds of the city. It’s the novelty of being out in the country with just nature’s sounds.” Vahling has added a new offering at his winery. Vahling now grows his own shiitake 40 – Getaway Guide
mushrooms, to be eaten raw or fried like morels. “It’s supposed to be the best cancer-fighting food on the market,” Vahling said. Right now, he is selling the shiitake mushrooms in 5pound boxes to restaurants and grocery stores or in 1pound boxes to individuals. Wherever you stop on the East Central Illinois Wine Trail, then local winemakers have good news, thanks to a great 2012 grape crop: “It should be excellent taste and the prices shouldn’t fluctuate much,” Morgan said.
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Big-city indulgence without the big-city hassle. Make a point of shopping in Tuscola. Go ahead, shop ’til you drop! Tuscola boasts Tanger Outlet Center, one of Central Illinois’ largest outlet malls—offering brand-name items like Coach, Harry & David, Gap, J. Crew, Under Armour, Ralph Lauren and Nike at unbeatable prices. When you’re finished there, head downtown to browse the shops along the lovely Sale Street area, including traditional, quaint Winterberry, the stylish Kelsey Furniture and Vintage Karma—a unique artist co-op. (Don’t forget to pick up some homemade chocolate at Flesor’s!) Whether you’re looking for the perfect day trip, a weekend getaway or coming back to stay, get right to the point.
And get to Tuscola.
For more info, go to point2tuscola.org or call toll-free (800) 441-9111.
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Getaway Guide – 41
APRIL 2013 6-7 | Coles County Speedway Race Car Show, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 12-14 | Spring Craft Show, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 12-14 | Town & Country Art Show, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 19-21 | Spores N’ More Mushroom Festival, Lake Shelbyville and surrounding areas. The Kick-off reception begins at 5:30 pm with a mushroom soup dinner. Events begin the following morning with a 5k run. Events continue throughout the day with Morel hunts and auctions, food, Bless of the Bikes and a Safety Day demonstration. Email spores@lakeshelbyville.com 19-20 | Celebration: A Festival of the Arts, Eastern Illinois University Campus Doudna Fine Arts Center, South 7th St. Everything from blacksmithing to watercolor with live performances and unique foods. Call (217) 581-2113 or www.eiu.edu/~festival/. 19-20 | Festival of the Young Child, 10 am – 2 pm, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 20 | Festival of Spring, Rock Springs Coservation Area, 3939 Nearing Lane. Celebrate the first day of spring with animal shows, wagon rides, astronomy programs and fishing derby. For more information, call (217) 423-7708. 26-28 | Sports Card Show, Cross County Mall, Mattoon
MAY 2013 3-5 | New Car Show, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 4 & 5 | 90 Miles of Family Fun on Route 66! 13 towns along Route 66 celebrate the Mother Road. In Pontiac, Chinese artist Tang Dongbai will be painting a new mural on the sidewalk in
downtown. An art show featuring the works of regional artists will be held on the square. Touch-A-Truck for Kids will be held at the Pontiac Recreation Center on Sunday morning, and there will be yard and garage sales city-wide all weekend. 18 | Pontiac Cruise Night, Pontiac; Bring your antique, classic or new car to downtown Pontiac and enjoy the fellowship of hundreds of other automobile enthusiasts. The small registration fee is used to support local charities. 18 | Chet Kingery Memorial Bluegrass Festival, Rockome Gardens, 125 N. County Road 425 E., Arcola. Afternoon and even blues concerts. $15. www.rockome.com 25 | Pre-War Festival, Pontiac; Downtown Pontiac will step back into time with antique autos, high wheel bicycles, old time music, period games and more. THe Pre-War Festival focuses on life in the United States prior to 1942. Get your vintage clothes out and join us for a great weekend of fun.
more information, www.saintcharleschurch.com 13-16 | Vermillion Players Summer Theatre, Pontiac; “South Pacific” 13-16 | Tate & Lyle Players Championship, Hickory Point Golf Course, 272 Weaver Road. Players from around the U.S. and around the world compete earn a spot of the LPGA Tour. For more information, www.tateandlyleplayerschampionship.com/. 14-15 | Carro Gordo Fat Hill Fest, Downtown. Decatur 15 | Pontiac Cruise Night, Pontiac; Bring your an-
tique, classic or new car to downtown Pontiac and enjoy the fellowship of hundreds of other automobile enthusiasts. The small registration fee is used to support local charities. 18 | Juneteenth ‘National Freedom Day’ Celebration, Central Park, downtown Decatur. 28-30 | Summer Flea Market, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 29 | Arthur Freedom Celebration Fireworks, Jurgens Park, Illinois 133. The event will feature an air show with World War II aircrafts, helicopter rides and skydivers.
JULY 2013 Fridays | Municipal Band Concerts, Pontiac; Join us for lively music and good family fun at the
JUNE 2013 Fridays | Municipal Band Concerts, Pontiac; Join us for lively music and good family fun at the band concerts. Most concerts held on the courhosue lawn. Bring your own lawn chairs. 1 | “Get Your Kicks on Route 66” Car Show, Pontiac; Benefits the Lenore Weiss and Betty Estes Cancer Fund 6-9 | Moweaqua Pow Wow Days, Central Park. Come see the Decatur Park Singers first performance of the season. The festival will have a carnival, food and raffles. 9 | Summer Start Up! Community Festival, St. Charles Borromeo Church, 921 Madison Ave. Charleston, Activities include games, raffles, crafts, pork chop dinner and live music. For
IEW DRIVE IN FAIRV
Fairview Park Of Casey, IL has a swimming pool, children’s playground area, bandstand, horse arena, horseshoe pitch arena, four ball diamonds, tractor pull, sunken garden, memorial garden, five shelters, several picnic areas and twin ponds for fishing, as well as a campground with water and electrical hook-ups, fire pits and a shower facility.
FAIRVIEW PARK CASEY, IL
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42 – Getaway Guide
• Relay for Life, June • Illinois Amateur Softball Association Hall of Fame Events, Summer • 4th of July Celebration, July • Annual Popcorn Festival, Labor Day Weekend • Central Illinois Garden Tractor Pulls, Summer • Christmas in the Park, December • Live Nativity in the Park, December For more information, contact Debbie Hutton at 217-932-2600 • www.cityofcaseyil.org
JG-TC • Herald&Review • Pantagraph
band concerts. Most concerts held on the courhosue lawn. Bring your own lawn chairs. 4 | Red, White and Blue Days, Morton Park, Division Street and Lincoln Avenue, Charleston. Events begin at 1 pm July 3 with vendors and activities. Other events will include live music, Farm of the Year contest and Little Mr. and Miss contests. For more information, call 345-7691 or http://charlestontourism.org/Calendar_of_Ev ents.html. 11-14 | Vermillion Players Summer Theatre, Pontiac; “TBA” 16 & 17 | Beautiful Bagel Baby Contest 6:30 pm, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 17-20 | Bagelfest, Peterson Park, Mattoon, 500 Broadway Ave., Bagelfest kicks off with the carnival on July 17. The weekend will continue with the Miss Bagelfest and Beautiful Baby Contest, food vendors, local and national music, bingo and a parade. www.mattoonbagelfest.com/. 20 | Pontiac Cruise Night, Pontiac; Bring your antique, classic or new car to downtown Pontiac and enjoy the fellowship of hundreds of other automobile enthusiasts. The small registration fee is used to support local charities.
AUGUST 2013 2-4 | Antique Show, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 2-4 | Decatur Celebration, downtown. The Midwest’s most exciting street festival wtih 10 show stages featuring national and emerging music artists, carnival, arts and crafts, over 60 unique food vendors and the Razzle Dazzle Godtimes Parade. For more information, call 423-4222 or decaturcelebration.com/home/. 8-10 | Blue Mound Fall Festival, Wise Park. The event will have a Cruise-In Car Show, entertainment, carnival, food and 5K or 1-mile run. For more information, call (217) 823-1406 or (217) 823-2188. 8-11 | Vermillion Players Summer Theatre, Pontiac; “TBA” 15-18 | Apple Dumpling Festival, downtown Atwood. For more information, call 578-2512. 17 | Pontiac Cruise Night, Pontiac; Bring your antique, classic or new car to downtown Pontiac and enjoy the fellowship of hundreds of other automobile enthusiasts. The small registration fee is used to support local charities. 17-18 | Bluegrass in the Gardens, Rockome Gardens, Arcola. Bluegrass music from regional bands. $15; $25 for both days; children 7-18,
$8; children 6 and under, free. www.rockome.com 23-25 | Summer Flea Market, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 23-25 | Lincoln Art and Balloon Festival, Logan County Airport. A community-wide event with art a barbeque contest, music wine tasting, car show and hot air balloons. 27 | Farm Progress Show, Progress City, Decatur, 4275 E. Mound Road. Admission: $15 adults and $8 ages 13-17. For more information, www.farmprogressshow.com 29-September 2 | The Nation’s second oldest gathering of antique and heritage steam and gasoline powered farm equipment. Horse shows, tractor pulls, live entertainment, daily parade of power, and lots of things for the kids. This year will feature Case and Caterpillar manufactured tractors. 31-September 2 | Arthur Cheese Festival, downtown. The event will have a tractor pull, parade, National Cheese Eating Contest. Free cheese will also be available. www.arthurcheesefestival.com 31-September 2 | Casey Popcorn Festival, Fairview Park. The event offer 1,500 pounds of free popcorn, carnival, crafts and music. www.popcornfestival.net
SEPTEMBER 2013 6-8 | Arcola Broom Corn Festival, Main Street downtown. The event will have broom activities, food, a parade with the Lawn Rangers and more. For more information, 217-268-4530 or www.chamber.com 13-15 | Sports Card Show, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 14-15 | Prairie Celebration, Rock Springs Conservation Area, 3939 Nearing Lane. Re-enactors dressed in 19th century attire demonstrate trades and skills of the time. For more information, call (217) 423-7708. 19-21 | 20th Annual Thresermen’s Bluegrass Festival, Pontiac; Held each year at Threshermen’s Park a few miles out of the city, this festival celebrates all things bluegrass. Nationally known
Have some spare time? Take a little trip on Interstate 70 to
Greenville, Illinois
Early 1800s replica fort
Unique museums, antique stores, creamery, confectionery, scenic downtown square, and fun festivals!
Annual Art Walk
Annual Car Show
Greenville, Illinois 888-268-0042 www.greenvilleusa.org
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Getaway Guide – 43
entertainers, dancers and festival food. Bring your lawn chair, settle in and enjoy the music! 20-21 | Monticillo Celebration, Main Street. (217) 762-9318. 20-22 | Arts in Central Park, Central Park, downtown Decatur. Artists from all over the country display works such as paintings, photography, jewelry and sculptures. Music and Food will also be available. For more information, www.decaturarts.org 20-22 | Abraham Lincoln National Railsplitting Festival, Logan County Fairgrounds. Events include 18th century games, stew and butter making, tug-of-war, lawn mower races and more. www.railsplitting.com
28-29 | Apple N’ Pork Festival, 219 E. Woodlawn. Clinton. Tram and bus transportation available.
DECEMBER 2013 7 | Christmas in the Heart of Charleston, Courthouse Square. Hours: 5 to 7 pm Holiday parade, carriage rides, refreshments, window displays and entertainment are planned. (217) 348-0430. 7 | Big Brothers/Big Sisters Auction, Cross County Mall, Mattoon
JAN – FEB 2014 OCTOBER 2013 3 | Mattoon Chamber Expo, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 5 | Dalton City Fall Festival 5 | Scarecrow Daze, Forest Park, Shelbyville. 11-12 | Chocolate Fall Fantasy, Pontiac; Join the downtown merchants as they celebrate all things chocolate! Great sales, great sweets and great fun! 25-27 | Fall Flea Market, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 31 | Trick or Treat 6 pm – 8 pm, Cross County Mall, Mattoon
22 | GTO Car Show, Pontiac; Come be a part of an all Pontiac car show sponsored by the GTO Association of America and its St. Louis & Springfield Chapters. 27-29 | New Car Show, Cross County Mall, Mattoon
pieces decorate the Lumpkin Family Center of Health Education. Call (217) 238-4765 or www.sarahbush.org.
NOVEMBER 2013 1-3 | Sport Card Show, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 7-12 | Jolly Trolley Open Houses, Pontiac; An annual event highlighted by fantastic deals offered by downtown merchants. A great way to start the holiday season. The Pontiac Jolly Trolley gives free tours of historic Pontiac. 8-10 | Christmas Craft Show, Cross County Mall, Mattoon 19 | Fall Harvest Festival, Rock Springs Conversation Area, 3939 Nearing Lane. Children are invited to celebrate the season with a custome contest, trick-or-treating and a scavenger hunt. (217)423-7708. 22-23 | Festival of Trees, Sarah Bush Lincoln Health System Health Education Center, Coles County, Christmas trees, wreaths and center-
Jan 31-Feb 2 | Central Illinois Jazz Festival, Decatur Conference Center and Hotel, U.S. Highway 36 West. 454-2709 or www.juvaejazz.com
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44 – Getaway Guide
Check Website for Hours
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Area Zoos Three years after fundraising efforts began, a group of warm-weather penguins is set to find a home at Scovill Zoo this year. The birds will arrive in late summer or early fall. The exhibit is being built where guinea pigs, barn owls, box turtles and crowned crane had been housed. The crane will move to a new exhibit. Some box turtles went to the Miller Park Zoo in Bloomington, while the guinea pigs and barn owls
By Allison Petty, HERALD & REIVEW H&R Staff Writer
will remain off exhibit until zoo staff can find another place to display them. It will have room for 15 birds, though the zoo will start with 10, Scovill Zoo director Dave Webster said. They will come from zoos across the country: Seattle; Santa Barbara, Calif.; Syracuse, N.Y.; St. Louis; Philadelphia; and Wichita, Kan. Penguins cannot be moved during the summer, Webster said, because that is
Miller Park Zoo, Bloomington. (The Pantagraph/LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER)
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when they undergo the stressful process of molting. After losing all their feathers, the penguins do not enter water, and in the wild do not eat until their feathers grow back again. “Our No. 1 thing is we want to make sure that we get them in here, get them healthy and keep them healthy. We don’t want to do anything that’s going to jeopardize that,” Webster said.
Aug 31, Sept 1, 2, 2013 Casey Fairview Park, Casey, Illinois
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CENTRAL ILLINOIS ZOOS Animals can be entertaining. They can also be a great way to sneak in some education. Check out Central Illinois zoos highlighting native and tropical animals with indoor and outdoor exhibits. Many offer additional fun, such as train rides, carousels and food.
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217-232-2676 • www.popcornfestival.net Getaway Guide – 45
Herald & Review/Jim Bowling Scovill Zoo peacocks make themselves comfortable during the construction.
BLOOMINGTON Miller Park Zoo 1020 S. Morris Ave. (309) 434-2250 Prices: $5.95 for adults; $3.95 for children and seniors Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Highlights include bears,
reindeer, sea lions, bald eagles and more. Other exhibits include a tropical rainforest, Animals of Asia and a Zoolab.
Miller Park Zoo zookeeper Carol Pagluica trains Gremlin the sea lion in her habitat at the Miller Park Zoo, Monday, March 26, 2012. The new sea lion habitat is at the heart of the zoo's new master plan. (The Pantagraph/David Proeber)
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46 – Getaway Guide
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From left, Cycelya Williams,13, Dishea Strickland,12, Adrena Chargois,13, and Miterra Williams,12, react as a camel relieves itself during the Hope Academy 7th and 8th grade visit to the Scovill Zoo. (Herald & Review/Jim Bowling)
Zookeeper Carol Pagluica holds a baby San Clemente Island goat named Becca in the petting zoo at Miller Park Zoo, Wednesday, June 6, 2012. San Clemente Island goats are a critically endangered heritage breed. (The Pantagraph/LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER) (217) 421-7435; www.decatur-parks.org/scovillzoo/
Prices: $5.50 for adults; $4.50 for
seniors; $3.50 for children ages 2-12; children under 2 are free. Spring hours: 10 a.m.
to 5 p.m.; Summer hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. A variety of animals live at Scovill Zoo, such as alligators, camels, wallabies and zebu, reside at Scovill Zoo.
SPRINGFIELD Henson Robinson Zoo 1100 E. Lake Drive (217) 585-1821; www.hensonrobinsonzoo.org
Prices: $5.25 for adults; $3.75 for seniors; $3.50 for children ages 3 to 12; children ages 2 and
under, free Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The zoo is home to animals from all over the world. According to the website, over 90 species are housed among naturalistic exhibits.
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Getaway Guide – 47
Signature Cup Lines Up Best In Central Illinois By Mark Tupper, LEE ENTERPRISES • mark.tupper@lee.net
In six years, the annual Signature Cup competition between the best golfers in Bloomington-Normal and the best in Decatur has been everything organizers hoped it would be – a Ryder Cup-style match play team event unlike any other in Central Illinois. Decatur won the inaugural event in 2007, and Bloomington-Normal followed with five straight, so fans have been left wanting a bit more competitive balance. That said, Cup players say it has become known for more than who wins and loses. The seventh annual Cup will be June 29-30 at Red Tail Run in Decatur. “When I think about
what the Signature Cup means, my pulse quickens a little bit,” said Kurtis Rogers, head pro at Red Tail Run and a participant in the pro division for six years. He is captain of the Decatur Signature Cup team. “I think the best thing is that it’s a team event. That energizes people to play for a common cause and that cause is your team and your town. It creates emotions you don’t have in a typical golf tournament.” Elston Mitchell, who will captain the BloomingtonNormal team for the third time, agrees the event reaches beyond who wins a loses. “I think there’s a misunderstanding among people who don’t play in
Lon Lugten tees off for Decatur on the third during the Signature Cup golf tournament at the Den at Fox Creek, Sunday, June, 24, 2012. (The Pantagraph/LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER)
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Coles Co Memorial Airport • Mattoon, IL
Open 7am to 8pm daily • 234-9433 www.charlestonairportsteakhouse.com JG-TC • Herald&Review • Pantagraph
it,” he said. “They see that the outcomes have been a little lop-sided and they think that’s what it’s about, but it’s more than that. “It has become a really friendly competition between two communities. We’ve gotten to know each other pretty well. It’s something we both look forward to. And even thogh one of our major city tournaments is match play, this Ryder Cup-style format is pretty neat.” Each captain must choose a team of at least eight amateur men, two amateur women, two senior men and two local pros. On Saturday, twoplayer teams compete in alternate shot and fourball play. On Sunday, golfers face off in a string of single matches. The two-day point totals determine the championsip. “There have been very few controversies,” Rogers said. “I think it brings out the best in us and in the game. A lot of that credit goes to the tone set by the first two captains – Richie
Lauren Englis drives a tee shot during the Signature Cup Golf Tournament, Saturday, June 23, 2012 at The Den at Fox Creek in Bloomington. (The Pantagraph, David Proeber)
Hammel and Frank Niepagen. After that, Darryl Stock and Harland Kilborn continued to insist on that kind of sportsmanship and I think it has become a part of the event.” In 2010, while on the course, news reached The Den at Fox Creek in Bloomington that the mother of Decatur pro
Nick Taute had died unexpectedly in Decatur. Taute continued to compete but the death stung the Decatur team. In May 2011, Hammel, the Decatur captain for three years, died after a brief battle with cancer. Bloomington was well represented at Hammel’s visitation. Last summer, at the kickoff banquet at The
Den, Kurtis Rogers and his brother, Signature Cup teammate Kraig Rogers, received word of their father’s passing. “That Sunday I was playing (Bloomington pro) Craig Onsrud and he played great, he was really on,” Kurtis Rogers recalled. “He knew I was still hurting because of my dad and after our match
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217.258.6364 Getaway Guide – 49
Greg Wohlford blasts out of a sand trap during the Signature Cup Golf Tournament, Saturday, June 23, 2012 at The Den at Fox Creek in Bloomington. (The Pantagraph, David Proeber)
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Craig and his wife gave me a card. “But during the match, Craig was giving me 4-footers. He just said, ‘You aren’t going to putt those today.’ It was pretty cool but that’s what you find in this event. People want to win badly, but they’re more than gracious.” Rick Anderson, the Deactur Park District’s director of golf, is a founder of the event and helped Decatur win the 2007 event with a much-needed singles point on Sunday. “We’ve become good friends with a lot of their players and I hope there’s a mutual respect,” he said. “I think match play cultivates a different kind of intensity. If you keep the competition in that perspective, it’s good. Even if you’re losing.” Then Anderson added two more words. “Kind of.”
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50 – Getaway Guide
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Kate Christman-Laegeler blasts a tee shot in the Signature Cup Golf Tournament, Saturday, June 23, 2012 at The Den at Fox Creek in Bloomington. (The Pantagraph, David Proeber)
Kraig Rogers celebrates after sinking a long putt in the Signature Cup Golf Tournament, Saturday, June 23, 2012 at The Den at Fox Creek in Bloomington. (The Pantagraph, David Proeber)
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Getaway Guide – 51
A Tradition Thrives Nearly 70 years ago, Central Illinois discovered that dirt could be useful for more than growing corn and soybeans. That’s when souped-up jalopies and hotrods came to the local county fairgrounds, tested on race tracks carved for horsepower of the fourlegged variety.
Today, dirt track auto racing has grown into a multi-million dollar industry nationwide. Gone are the “old beaters” cobbled together in the backyard or barnyard. The sleek machines of today are pieced together with professionally engineered “store-bought” – components. Central Illinois is a hotbed for the sport, primarily RATED HOTEL governed by the ON TRIP ADVISOR DIRTcar UMP sanctioning FREE full, hot breakfast organization. FREE phone calls throughout North America Every summer State of the art fitness center since 1986, UMP Heated outdoor pool has staged Pet friendly “Summer Discount when Getaway is mentioned Nationals” and this yearís series will run June 12 to July 20 and features 31 events 2012 at 30 tracks in nine states. Nearly half 2 Time Award Winning Hotel will be staged at 4922 Paradise Road, Mattoon, IL 61938 • Phone 217-235-0222 tracks in the Land www.qualityinn.com/hotel-mattoon-illinois-IL311
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By Bruce Yentes, THE PANTAGRAPH byentes@pantagraph.com of Lincoln. Bloomington late-model standout Jason Feger, the 2010 Summer Nationals champion, is an old pro usually joined by a handful of pit crew members. “You’re living in a 22-foot box with three guys and not much privacy or alone time,” Feger said. “It’s the hottest time of the year, you’ve got work to do, you’re getting dirty and then you have to drive all night down the road to the next track.” Not surprisingly, the series is billed as “The Hell Tour.” The last three title winners all hail from Central Illinois and have raced at tracks in Fairbury, Farmer City, Lincoln, Macon and Peoria. Reigning champion Brian Shirley of Chatham was UMP weekly series national champ. Ryan Unzicker of El Paso won the title in 2011. Feger also won it in 2009. Feger’s grandfather, Red Griffin, was a well-liked competitor in days of yore and at one time hosted an annual racing trade show in Bloomington. Feger’s uncle, Rocky Griffin, also did
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52 – Getaway Guide
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plenty of beating and banging on local short tracks. In football, Feger, now 34, led Normal Community West High School in tackles in the first year of the schoolís existence. “I also actually scored the first touchdown in Normal West history,” he said. “It was one of those deals where I played every play like it was my last and had a great year. It was a lot of fun and itís provided a lot of good
memories.” Feger says there are a lot of similarities between the sports. “A lot of it’s the same, the way you have to mentally prepare,” he said. “In football, you watch video and study. In racing, you work on the car during the week to get prepared. When you get on the track or the field, you have to be controlled, yet you have to be aggressive. You have to pay attention to what
you’re doing and do it as hard as you can and as best as you can without going past the point where you mess up.” Macon Speedway owner/promoter Bob Sargent began promoting auto races full-time after college graduation and built Track Enterprises Inc. into one of the nation’s premier dirt track racing promotional entities. He also promotes events at Paducah International
Speedway in Kentucky, Action Track in Terre Haute, Ind. and at the one-mile state fairgrounds facilities in Springfield, DuQuoin and Indianapolis. NASCAR champion Tony Stewart is part of Sargent’s ownership group at Macon, a 1/5-mile bullring that’s slightly smaller than the 1/5-mile tracks. “Mighty Macon is one of the smallest tracks we race on, but it’s kind of like Bristol for NASCAR,” Feger said. “There’s a lot of nights where weíre racing three-wide in the corner. The place is definitely exciting. You just kind of get out there and go off of instinct. Everything happens so fast you just kind of wing it. I love racing there.” A World of Outlaws date is scheduled July 26-27 at Fairbury’s American Legion Billy Moyer of Batesville, Ark., turns in a top qualifying lap of 13.307 on Friday, March 30, 2012, during qualifying Speedway. for the World of Outlaws Late Model Series Illini 100 at Farmer City Raceway. (Photo courtesy Dennis Krieger)
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Getaway Guide – 53
Central Illinois Race Tracks CHARLESTON SPEEDWAY This dirt oval, three-eighths of a mile in length, has three UMP-sanctioned classes (Modified, Street Stock and Hornet), in addition to several other part-time offerings (Pure Stock and Sprint, to name two). Last year marked the return of popular Late Models to the Speedway. The season kicks off in April and ends in September. A number of national champions have raced here, including Denny Schwartz, Jeff Leka and Jason Feger. The track is located between Charleston and Ashmore on Illinois 16. Contact: 217-3452929 Online: www.myspace.com/geocob COLES COUNTY SPEEDWAY Known as the oldest micro sprint race track in the U.S.,
Gary Cook races in the modified division Tuesday (May 20, 2008) at Fairbury American Legion Speedway. (Pantagraph/Carlos T. Miranda)
the Coles County Modified Midget Racing Association’s season gets under way for five different classes (Multi, Non-Wing, Restrictor, Sportsman and Junior Sprint) at the beginning of May. Three national championships have taken
place here in the past halfcentury, the last one in 2006, and the club is currently affiliated with the 600 Micro Sprint USA organization. The track is located between Mattoon and Charleston on Illinois 316. Contact: 217-348-8035 Online: www.ccmmra.com
COLES COUNTY DRAGWAY Voted by the NHRA as the Track of the Year in the North Central Division for both 2007 and 2008, the dragstrip maintains a busy schedule from March until November. Elapsed time bracket racing is featured on an eighth-mile strip, with dragsters, junior
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54 – Getaway Guide
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dragsters, motorcycles and street cars competing alike. It is also home of one of the area’s marquee events, Thunder on the Prairie, which takes place every June. Top drivers vie to reach the region finals in Indianapolis and eventually the NHRA nationals in Pomona, Calif. For a $10 fee, anyone can bring a car to the track for the Street Legal series, which runs on Fridays throughout the summer. The Dragway is located on Illinois 316 between Mattoon and Charleston. Contact: 217-345-7777 Online:
Late Model driver Jimmy Dehm, of Lexington, competes during the qualifying round of the 20th annual UMP dirt car summer nationals at Farmer City Raceway Friday night (June 20, 2008). (Pantagraph/B Mosher)
www.colescountydragwayusa.com
LINCOLN TRAIL MOTOSPORTS Used as a popular recreational facility as well as a competitive one, LTM has the longest calendar year of any area track, starting in February and ending near Halloween. Two- and four-wheeled bikes and off-road vehicles compete in motocross and hare scramble events, mostly during two-day weekends. The Illini Super Series brings together riders from different tracks for a season-ending points race. The track is west
of Casey, just off U.S. 40. Contact: 217-932-2041 Online: www.lincolntrailmotosports.com
FAIRBURY AMERICAN LEGION SPEEDWAY ¼-mile Location: Third Street at Route 24, Fairbury Phone: 309-532-7862 Racing every Saturday night: Late Models, Modifieds, Sportsman, Street Stocks Opening Night: Saturday
“Quilters’ Headquarters” Over 3000 Bolts of Fabric • Books • Patterns • Classes Authorized Husqvarna Viking - Baby Lock - Handi Quilter Sales and Service 1122 North Main Street Mon - Thurs 9-6 Paris, Illinois 61944 Friday 9-8 Saturday 9-5
(217) 465-5541
Email: loris@comwares.net
www.lorisviking.com
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April 27 Key Late Model Dates: June 22 – UMP Summer Nationals, $10,000-to-win main event; July 26-27 – Prairie Dirt Classic, World of Outlaws Late Model national touring series, $20,000-to-win main event. FARMER CITY RACEWAY ¼-mile Location: Highway 150, Farmer City Key Late Model Dates: April 5-6 – Illini 100 World of Outlaws Late Model national touring series, $20,000-towin main event. 2013 Schedule to be determined. LINCOLN SPEEDWAY ¼-mile Location: Logan County Fairgrounds, 11th and Jefferson, Lincoln. Phone: 217-899-3727 Racing every Friday night: Pro Late Models, Modifieds, Street Stocks, 4-cylinder Compacts. Opening Night: Friday April 19 Key Late Model Dates: June
30 – UMP Summer Nationals, $10,000-to-win main event. MACON SPEEDWAY 1/5-mile Location: 9 miles south of Decatur off US 51 Phone: 217-764-3000 Racing every Saturday night: Late Models, Modifieds, Sportsman, Street Stocks, 4cylinder Compacts. Opening Night: Saturday April 6 Key Late Model Dates: UMP Summer Nationals, $5,000to-win main event. NASCAR Nights: TBD PEORIA SPEEDWAY ¼-mile Location: 3520 W. Farmington Road, Peoria. Phone: 309-357-3339 Racing every Saturday night: Late Models, Modifieds, Steel Block Late Models, Street Stocks, 4-cylinder Compacts, Lightning Sprints. Opening Night: Friday April 12 Key Late Model Dates: June 24 – UMP Summer Nationals, $5,000-to-win main event.
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Hooks, Lines & Sinkers Illinois has lots of lakes, unrestricted motors, picnickrivers, channels and ponds ing, camping. filled with all sorts of fish and Kincaid Reservoir: 31 acres, water-based critters. Here, four miles east of Kincaid in thanks to our friends at Christian County; boat fishIFishIllinois.org, are some of ing, ramps, picnicking. the bigger and best ones: Lake Bloomington: 635 Carlinville Lake No. 2: 105 acres, 10 miles north of acres, five miles south of Carlinville in Macoupin County; boat fishing, gravel ramps, trolling motors, picnicking, camping. Carlyle Lake: 24,580 acres, northeast of Carlyle in Clinton, Bond and Fayette counties; boat fishing and rental, ramps, unrestricted motors, water skiing, swimming, picnicking, camping. Clinton Lake: 5,000 acres, three miles east of Clinton in DeWitt County; boat fishing, Two men jig ice fishing ramps, motors, picnicking, lures while looking for fish to bite at Dawson camping. Lake in Moraine View Coffeen Lake: 1,100 acres, State Park North of one mile west of Coffeen in LeRoy on Friday Dec. 22, Montgomery County; boat 2010.(The fishing, ramps, restricted moPantagraph/STEVE tors, picnicking, camping. SMEDLEY) Dawson Lake: 158 acres, four miles north of Scott Doyle of Bloomington was LeRoy in fishing off the dock at Dawson McLean Lake, Moraine View State Park, County; boat north of LeRoy. fishing, ramps, restricted motors, picnicking, camping. Evergreen Lake: 886 acres, 10 miles north of Bloomington in McLean County; boat fishing, ramps, 10 hp. Motors, picnicking, camping. Kinkaid Lake: 2,750 acres, three miles northwest of Murphysboro in Jackson County; boat fishing, ramps,
56 – Getaway Guide
Bloomington in McLean County; boat fishing, ramps, restricted motors, picnicking. Lake Centralia: 450 acres, northeast of Carlyle in Marion County; boat fishing, ramps, water skiing, swimming, picnicking, camping.
Lake Decatur: 3,093 acres in Decatur in Macon County; boat fishing, ramps, water skiing, unrestricted motors, swimming, picnicking, camping. Lake Mattoon: 1,050 acres south of Mattoon in Shelby
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Ray Boyd of Bloomington lifts his boat at the conclusion of a morning fishing on Dawson Lake, Thursday, August 19, 2010. Moraine View State Park has comeback from a year where state budget cuts threatened its viability. (The Pantagraph, David Proeber)
2013 Summer Mainstage Season
Fiddler On The Roof June 5-16, 2013 Family Friendly
A Funny Thing Happened On The Way to the Forum June 19-30, 2013 PG-13 Anything Goes July 3-14, 2013 Family Friendly The Will Rogers Follies July 17-28, 2013 Family Friendly Monty Python’s Spamalot July 31 - August 11, 2013 PG-13
Ticket Prices
vWjj _pPY\] _WOYsZl[Xl\]yyyyyyyyyyUifdyww vjpM QPZryyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyUiedyew _l]njp ^lskpXYa Ugcyew Single Tickets: TrWjX R Ugeyfw _p]l\ZxQmljr $37.50 Adult & $35.40 Senior/Child _l]njp & R Season _pPY\] Tickets ^lskpXY `] Single On _Pjp Sale t\N Now County; boat fishing, ramps, water skiing, unrestricted motors, swimming, picnicking, camping. Lake of the Woods: 25 acres, one mile north of Mahomet in Champaign County; picnicking. Lake Shelbyville: 11,100 acres, east of Shelbyville in Shelby and Moultrie counties; boat fishing and rental, ramps, water skiing, unrestricted motors, swimming, picnicking, camping. Lake Vermilion: 900 acres, east of Danville in Vermilion County; boat fishing, ramps, picnicking, camping. Mount Pulaski Park District Lake: 20 acres, two miles south of Mount Pulaski in Logan County; picnicking. Newton Lake: 1,750 acres, eight miles southwest of Newton in Jasper County; boat fishing, ramps, 25 hp. motor, picnicking. Paris Twin Lakes: 220 acres, north edge of Paris in Edgar County; boat fishing, ramps. Rend Lake: 18,900 acres, three miles east of Sesser in Franklin and Jefferson counties; boat fishing and rental, ramps, unrestricted motors, picnicking, camping. Weldon Springs: 29.4 acres, two miles east of Clinton in DeWitt County; boat fishing, ramps, restricted motors, picnicking, camping.
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All shows start at iwagw Tu June 7, 8, 11, 13, 14, 15 July 5, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13 August 2, 3, 6, 8, 9, 10 _l]njp ^lskpXY PZp Uiwyfw _pPY\] ^lskpXY PZp Uheywe
The Little Theatre On The Square in Sullivan, IL Central Illinois’ Premier Professional Theatre
QPjj Xmp S\M `oqsp X\rP{ PX hiczchbzcgce \Z [WZsmPYp \]jl]p PX www.thelittletheatre.org
Getaway Guide – 57
Area Golf Course Directory BLOOMINGTONNORMAL AREA The Den at Fox Creek Bloomington 309-434-2300 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,422 Greens fees: M-Th $31; F-Sun $41 (Frequent player card: M-Th $24; F-Sun $31) Practice range: Yes Website: www.thedengc.com Highland Park G.C. Bloomington 309-434-2200 Par: 70 Yardage: 5,539 Greens fees: M-Th $16; F-Sun $18 (Frequent
player card: M-Th $13; F-Sun $15) Practice range: No Website: www.highland parkgc.com Ironwood G.C. Normal 309-454-9620 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,456 Greens fees: M-F $19, weekends $24; seniors (60-older) and juniors (17-under) $15 after 2 p.m. on weekends Practice range: Yes Website: www.golfiron wood.org The Links at Ireland Grove Bloomington 309-661-8040
Par: 29 Yardage: 1,590 Greens fees: $10, $5 under age 6 Practice range: Yes Website: www.the linksatirelandgrove.com Prairie Vista G.C. Bloomington 309-434-2217 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,427 Greens fees: M-Th $31; F-Sun $33 (Frequent player card: M-Th $24; F-Sun $26) Practice range: Yes Website: www.prairievistagc.com Weibring Golf Club at ISU Normal
309-438-8065 Par: 71 Yardage: 6,160 Greens fees: M-F $32, weekends $35; seniors: M-F $23, weekends $26; juniors: M-F $20, weekends $23 Practice range: Short game area Website: www.isugolf.com/golf Anderson Fields G.C. Streator 815-672-3702 Par: 35 Yardage: 2,682 Greens fees: 9 holes: $10 (resident), $12 (non-resident); 18 holes: $17 (resident), $20 (non-resident)
Sullivan, IL Something for everyone... Sullivan Chamber & Economic Development 112 W. Harrison Street, Sullivan, IL 61951 For lodging information, please call 217.728.4223 or visit sullivanchamber.com www.amishcountryofcentralil.com 58 – Getaway Guide
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Practice range: No Website: www.ci.streator.il.us/ anderson-fields.php Bluegrass Creek G.C. Minier 309-392-2094 Par: 36 Yardage: 3,044 Greens fees: $13 (all day); juniors $8 (15under) Practice range: No Dwight Country Club Dwight 815-584-1399 Herald & Review/Lisa Morrison Par: 71 Team Bloomington gathers around the trophy Yardage: 6,306 after winning this year's Signature Cup. Greens fees: M-F $17, weekends $21 Par: 71 Practice range: Yes El Paso Golf Club Yardage: 6,111 Website: www.dwight Kappa Greens fees: $27 for 18 countryclub.com 309-527-5225 holes, $13.50 for 9 holes, closed to the public Sunday and holidays Practice range: Short game area Website: www.elpaso golfclub.com
Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch Fall & Christmas Corn Maze, Hay Rides, Pumpkins, Gift Shop, Reindeer Tours, Christmas Trees Phone: 217-893-3407 Rantoul, IL www.reindeerranch.com jg-tc.com • herald-review.com • pantagraph.com
Fairlakes Golf Course Secor 309-744-2222 Par: 67 Yardage: 5,052 Greens fees: M-F: $9 (9 holes), $16 (18 holes); weekends: $11 (9 holes), $18 (weekends) Practice range: No Website: www.fairlakesgc.com Four Willows G.C. Mason City 217-482-3349 Par: 35
Yardage: 3,000 Greens fees: $9 for 9 holes, $6 for replay Practice range: No Hazy Hills G.C. Hudson 309-726-9200 Par: 35 Yardage: 2,900 Greens fees: $9 Practice range: No Indian Creek G.C. Fairbury 815-692-2655 Par: 72 Yardage: 5,840 Greens fees: 9 holes: $10, M-F, $12 weekends; 18 holes: $16 M-F, $18 weekends Practice range: Yes Website: www.indian creekcc.net Indian Springs G.C. Saybrook 309-475-4111 Getaway Guide – 59
Par: 36 Yardage: 3,255 Greens fees: $16 M-F, $19 weekends (18 holes) Practice range: Yes Kaufman Park G.C. Eureka 309-467-2523 Par: 34 Yardage: 2,767 Greens fees: 9 holes: $10; 18 holes: $16 Practice range: No Lake of the Woods G.C. Mahomet 217-586-2183 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,044 Greens fees: M-F $24 (resident), $26 (non-resident); weekends $25 (resident), $27 (non-resident) Practice range: Yes Website: www.golfthelake.com
LeRoy Country Club LeRoy 309-962-3421 Par: 71 Yardage: 5,681 Greens fees: 9 holes $7, 18 holes $14 Practice range: Chipping area Lick Creek G.C. Pekin 309-346-0077 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,308 Green fees: weekdays $21.25, weekends $24 Practice range: Yes Website:www.pekinpark district.org/lickcreek.html
60 – Getaway Guide
Lincoln Elks C.C. Lincoln 217-732-4010 Par: 71 Yardage: 6,100 Greens fees: 9 holes $15, 18 holes $26 Practice range: Yes
Pontiac Elks C.C. Pontiac 815-842-1249 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,579 Fees: M-F $20, weekends $24 Practice range: Yes Website:
WeaverRidge Golf Club Peoria 309-691-3344 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,013 Green fees: $45-$93 (includes cart) Practice range: Yes Website:
Metamora Fields Metamora 309-367-4000 Par: 71
www.pontiacelks.com
www.weaverridge.com
Railside Golf Club Gibson City
Wolf Creek Golf Club Cayuga 815-842-9008 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,637 Greens fees: 9 holes: MF $10, weekends $13; 18 holes: M-F $18, weekends $21 Practice range: Yes Website: www.golfatwolfcreek.com
Bloomington-Normal team members Ray Kralis, left, and Craig Onsrud share a laugh while driving on the fairway of No. 5 at The Den at Fox Creek Golf Course in Bloomington on Saturday (June 21, 2008) during the Lee Enterprises Signature Cup. (The Pantagraph/Joel Fellers)
Yardage: 6,209 Green fees: weekday $45, weekends $55 Practice range: Yes Website: www.metamorafields.com
North Greens G.C. Atlanta 217-648-5500 Par: 36 Yardage: 3,290 Greens fees: 9 holes $10, 18 holes $16; seniors: 9 holes $8, 18 holes $13 (M-F) Practice range: Yes
217-784-5000 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,755 Fees: M-F $18; weekends $20 Practice range: Yes Website: www.railside.com
Woodlawn C.C. Farmer City 309-928-3215 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,234 Greens fees: 9 holes: MSat $10, Sunday $12; 18 holes: M-Sat $18, Sunday $20 Practice range: Yes Website: www.woodlawncountryclubfc.com
DECATUR AREA
Twin Creeks G.C. Streator 815-672-4220 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,133 Greens fees: 9 holes: MF $12, weekends $15.50; 18 holes: M-F $17, weekends $22.50 Practice range: Yes
Hickory Point 727 Weaver Road, Decatur 217-421-7444 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,848 Greens fees: $24 weekdays Driving range: Yes Website: www.decatur-parks.org/golf
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Road 217-774-3030 Par: 35 Yardage: 2,832
Herald & Review/Lisa Morrison Dave Hunt 8th green Red Tail Run Golf Course 2012 City Amateur Tournament
Lake Shore Taylorville 1460 E. 1000 North Road 217-824-5521 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,778 Greens fees: $30 weekdays Website: www.golflakeshore.com
Red Tail Run 520 W. Grove Road, Decatur 217-422-2211 Par: 72 Yardage: 7,351 Greens fees: $24 weekdays Driving range: Yes Website: www.decatur-parks.org/golf
Scovill 3909 W. Main St., Decatur 217-429-6243 Par: 71 Yardage: 5,925 Greens fees: $24 weekdays Driving range: Yes Website: www.decatur-parks.org/golf
EFFINGHAM Cardinal Effingham 15737 N. Beach Road, 217-868-2860
Par: 72 Yardage: 5,899 Website: www.sites.google.com/site/cardinalgolfcourse/
Foreway G.C. Effingham 16041 N. 100th St. 217-858-5418 Par: 36 Yardage: 2,910 Website: forewaygolfcourse.com
The National Golf Course Route 1, Box 230, Findlay 217-756-5555 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,900 Greens fees: $30 weekdays Website: thenationalgc.com Moweaqua Golf Course Moweaqua 2598 E. 1900 North Road 217-768-3411 Par: 72
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Yardage: 6,307 Driving range: Yes Greens fees: $16 weekdays Website: moweaqua golfcourse.com Oak Terrace Pana 1000 Beyers Lake Road 1-800-577-7598 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,275 Greens fees: $44 weekdays Website: www.oakterraceresort.com
St. Elmo Golf Club One mile northwest of St. Elmo 618-829-3390 Par: 36 Yardage: 3,220 Greens fees: $8 Website: stelmogolfclub.com
Deer Trail Shelbyville 1902 E. 1500 North
Lincoln Trail Taylorville 2021 Lincoln Trail 217-824-5161 Par: 35 Yardage: 2,905 Ironhorse Tuscola 2000 Ironhorse Drive 217-253-6644 Par: 72 Yardage: 7,046 Greens fees: $24 weekdays Website: www.ironhorsegc.com
Angus Links Three miles south of Windsor 217-459-2805 Par: 71 Yardage: 6,705 Greens fees: $27 Website: www.anguslinks.com
Legends Champaign 4551 Nicklaus Drive 217-863-2145 Par: 29 Getaway Guide – 61
Yardage: 1,489 Greens fees: $9 Website: www.legendsofchampaign.com
Stone Creek Urbana 217-367-3000 Par: 72 Yardage: 7,118 Greens fees: $44 Website: www.stonecreek
golfclub.com
www.uofigolf.com
University of Illinois Blue Savoy 800 Hartwell Drive 217-359-5613 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,479 Greens fees: $22 weekdays Driving range: Yes Website:
University of Illinois Orange Savoy 800 Hartwell Drive, 217-359-5613 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,866 Greens fees: $22 weekdays Driving range: Yes Website: www.uofigolf.com
North Reel Street, P.O. Box 594 217-346-3102 Par: 34 Yardage: 2,547 Type: Public Driving range: No Rogala Public Links Mattoon 1322 State Highway 16 217-235-5518 Par: 36 Yardage: 3,069 Type: Public Driving range: No Eagle Ridge Golf Course Paris 928 Clinton Road 217-463-3434 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,589 Type: Public Bent Tree Golf Course Charleston 14618 E. County Road 400 North 217-348-1611 Par: 70 Yardage: 6,240 Type: Public
Father son team of Bob and Mike Lee, end a round of golf at Highland Park Golf Course Thursday morning. Mike Lee is watching his father putt. The Pantagraph Photo llustration/STEVE SMEDLEY
MATTOON-CHARLESTON AREA
Come Visit the Shops of Mansfi fieeld Mansfield, Illinois I-74 Exit 166
Mansfield General Store 107 N. Jefferson 217.489.3351 Mon – Sat: 9am – 8pm
Three Toad Treasures Funky Junk Shop 101 N. Jefferson 217.489.6048 Call for Hours
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Margaret’s Attic to Basement II Antiques 111 N. Jefferson 217.489.6056 Call for Hours Rose ‘n Berries 114 Oliver 217.489.5733 Call for Hours
Meadowview Golf Course Mattoon 6489 Meadowview Lane 217-258-7888 Par: 72 Yardage: 6,745 Type: Public Driving range: Yes www.meadowviewgolf.com
Norton Knolls Golf Course Oakland
Timberlake Golf Course Sullivan 957 County Road 700 East 217-797-6496 Par: 70 Yardage: 6,054 Type: Public www.timberlakegolfcourse.com
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Getaway Guide – 63