Lake of Egypt Living Spring 2021

LAKE OF EGYPT

LIVING PREMIER LIFEST YLE MAGAZINE FOR THE LAKE OF EGYPT & SHAWNEE NATIONAL FOREST

LISA & JON

CAVANESS New lake-loving residents

THE DNR: LAKE PROTECTORS

|

A PEEK INSIDE: MACK'S MARINA

Get Cookin’with Granite!

See what’s Hot in our Indoor Stone Gallery.

Appointments Monday thru Friday 7-4 & Saturday 9-12

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Carbondale, IL 618-457-2326

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Spring 2021

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3/9/21 5:00 PM

@LAKEOFEGYPTLIVING FOLLOW US ON

Welcome Back Lake Neighbors!

LARITA NANCE

We hope you had a good winter and are ready to enjoy the natural beauty of our wonderful area. The lake had quite a cold snap in February and we witnessed ice accumulation on the lake that we have not seen in years. The cold, along with the power plants decrease in coal fired electric generation were the perfect conditions for the lake to freeze. At The Resort, we had a longer spring start up due to frozen waterline issues and repairing docks from the long freeze.

I am always amazed at the beauty of nature even in adverse weather conditions, the ice and snow were a winter wonderland on the lake and the pristine pine groves were breathtaking. We thank you for the many pictures everyone sent via Facebook and Instagram. During the freeze the birds flocked to the open water around the hot water discharge at the power plant. It was truly a spectacular sight as the many varieties of fowl bathed in their steam heated hot tub, gorging themselves on the fish escaping the ice, looking for warmer water. Newcomers to the party were a flock of thousands of pelicans that were amazing to witness.

We hope your vacation homes came through it ok and you are getting ready for a fantastic summer season. I think we are all ready for some peace and relaxation at our lake homes as we move past all of the craziness we have experienced over the last year.

We are excited for our second year of Lake of Egypt Living 4

Lake of Egypt Living

Magazine. There are many upgrades and improvements in the works. One will be the creation of a marketplace, where our neighbors can list items for sale; items wanted to buy; services needed or services that can be provided. It will be one more tool for lake friends to interact with each other. The main goal of our magazine is to build our lake neighbors into one cohesive community.

We at Egyptian Hills and Lake of Egypt Living Magazine, are excited to announce our “LOVE  THE LAKE DAY ” Saturday April 24. Keeping with Earth Day and Earth Week, we have reached out to Bulldog trash and they will be providing a roll up dumpster at The Resort boat launch. We are asking all of the lake residents to clean the shoreline and the lake itself of the trash and debris. We are going to have music playing and free ice cream to thank you for your help keeping our lake the beautiful natural jewel that we all love. We plan to make this an annual event and hope it grows into a very important day on the lake. To participate, bring your friends and go out boating, kayaking, or any other water activity, and gather any and all trash that you see. Then bring all the trash you collect to The Resort and we will dispose of it. Anyone that brings a bag of trash gathered from the lake, will get a free ice cream sundae. If you find something too large to remove, take a picture of it and bring it to The Resort with a location and Lake of Egypt Docks will send their work boats out to retrieve it.

We love our lake! We love our lake neighbors!

We just want to thank you all in advance for making the Lake of Egypt the best it can be!

Micah Merrill

Lake of Egypt Living; Lake of Egypt Docks; and the Egyptian Hills Resort Family

WHAT'S INSIDE LAKE OF EGYPT

LIVING

64

Spring 2021 Issue EDITOR: Terrance Geese CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Tyler Couty ADVERTISING SALES: Micah Merrill CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER: Jennie Baer CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Patrick Austin Victoria Sprehe Mark Faulkner Tim Serles Dr. Mike Troop

FEATURES

PLUS...

16

BEHIND THE BUSINESS

9

Mack's Marina proves that great customer service and hard work are the basis for success.

15 FISHIN' REPORT

Lisa and Jon Cavaness give us a tour of their remodeled lake home.

64

THE LAKE SCENE

©2021 Lake of Egypt Living

Lake of Egypt Living strives to bring correct, accurate information that is published in the magazine. However, Lake of Egypt Living cannot be held responsible for any consequences resulting from errors or absences. Lake of Egypt Living also cannot be held responsible for the services provided by any and all advertisers in our publications. All material in this magazine is property of Lake of Egypt Living and may not be reproduced without authorization from the publisher. Lake of Egypt Living is published four times per year and is distributed to residents and businesses at the Lake of Egypt and throughout southern Illinois. Interested in back issues, subscriptions or advertising? Contact us at (618) 751-4556.

22 IN THE KITCHEN 26 REAL ESTATE 29 SWING AWAY

GUARDIANS OF SAFETY

32 WHAT'S HAPPENIN'

Dedicated to protecting southern Illinois' most valuable resources, the DNR is here to help.

34 SPIRITS 54 TECH TALK 56 TALKIN' PETS 73 UPCOMING EVENTS

22

LAKE LIFE IS RUFF...

ANDREA SCZURKO LEAS

40

A CHILD OF THE LAKE

75 Egyptian Parkway, Creal Springs, IL 62922 (618) 751-4556 • lakeofegyptliving.com Reproduction or use of the contents in this magazine is prohibited.

ABOUT THE COVER: Lifelong residents of Marion, Lisa and Jon Cavaness discuss life as new lake-loving residents and give us a tour of their exquisite home on the Lake of Egypt. Find the article on page 40.

Spring 2021

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6

Lake of Egypt Living



Lake

Calling all lake residents!

Grab your friends & neighbors to take part in the first annual “Love the Lake Day”!

To celebrate Earth Day and our amazing lake, we’re asking that everyone come out and collect trash and debris from the Lake of Egypt. Bring your trash to The Resort and we’ll dispose of it. Anyone that brings a bag of trash gathered from the lake will recieve a FREE ice cream sundae!

Buy, sell, and trade with your neighbors!

Find everything you need for less on the...

MARKETPLACE

lakeofegyptliving.com

Spring 2021

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get your grill on!

1720 Clark St. Carterville, IL 62918 • (618) 985-8900

FIBER INTERNET

IS COMING TO LAKE OF EGYPT

Shawnee Communications continues to respond to the needs of our Southern Illinois friends and neighbors by expanding our Fiber to the Home network to more rural, underserved communities. Whether you work from home, have students in remote learning programs or just enjoy a high-tech lifestyle, Fiber Internet will provide immediate benefits to your household.

Visit shawneefiber.com or call us at 800.461.3956 to register your need for Fiber Internet!

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Lake of Egypt Living

Cornerstone Group © 2021

Construction is happening now and installations will begin later this year. Register today to make sure that you receive your ultimate Internet upgrade!

THE LAKE SCENE instagram @LAKEOFEGYPTLIVING

The Lake Scene

Show us how you embrace the lake spirit – share your moments, stories and snapshots by tagging @lakeofegyptliving

Rachel Klus Wright

Susan Da Rosa

Stefanie Kaytor

Lex Steele

Jen Lynn

Marsha Steele

Jonathan Caldwell

Mo Hanek

William Roberson

Spring 2021

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Spring 2021

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L ake of Egypt Living

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Spring 2021

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THE LAKE OF EGYPT TEAM! Thought about selling your lake home?

WE HAVE BUYERS!

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Managing Broker Kurt Avripas • 112 E. Main St., West Frankfort, IL • (618) 937-3040 14

L ake of Egypt Living

FISHIN' REPORT

Essentials for your Tackle Box

R

Recreational fishing is enjoyed by millions of people. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reported that there was an 8 percent increase in anglers between 2011 and 2017. Expenditures by anglers nationwide rose 2 percent during the same time, from $45 billion to $46.1 billion.

As more people stay closer to home, they’re eager to engage in hobbies that are fun and accessible but still promote social distancing. Fishing checks each of those boxes. Prospective anglers who are eager to get into saltwater or freshwater fishing should know that the right gear is essential. For fishing enthusiasts, that gear starts with a rod and reel. Afterward, it is important to fill a tackle box with other essentials.

• Extra fishing line: Lines get snagged, torn or snapped when reeling in a great catch, so extra fishing line is essential.

• Extra hooks: The traditional J-hook can snag many types of fish, but some anglers like a French hook. No matter which hook you prefer, make sure you have a variety of sizes on hand so you can switch if need be.

• A set of fishing pliers: Purchase pliers specifically made for fishing. Most come in aluminum so they will not corrode due to the elements. Also, if you’re using braided fishing line, be sure the pliers have a cutter made for cutting braid.

• Bobbers in various sizes: Bobbers, also called floaters, help anglers know when a fish is biting. Round clip-on bobbers are popular and widely available. Slip bobbers will slide up and down the line, enabling anglers to get the hook into deeper water.

• Sinkers: The yin to the bobber’s yang, sinkers are weights that help weigh down a worm or artificial lure to reach the right level to attract fish.

• Fishing regulations/ruler: A variety of rules govern when and where you can fish. Also, you’ll need to know which size fish are keepers and which need to be tossed back.

Keep a regulation ruler in the tackle box to avoid fines.

• Pocket knife: Keep a sharp knife for cutting lines and bait.

Reserve a special filet knife for cleaning fish.

• Selection of lures: Research which fish you’re angling for

and then purchase a variety of appropriate lures. Some lures will attract a wide array of fish.

• Stringer: A stringer is a device that is used to hold several caught fish through their gills. It anchors to land and the other end with the fish on it is placed in the water to keep the fish alive until you’re ready to pack up and go. It’s a good alternative to a cooler or bucket filled with water.

• Fishing license: Many conservation or fish and wildlife departments require a license for fishing for anglers of a certain age. Be sure to have it on hand or you may be susceptible to fines or other penalties.

A tackle box with the right gear can help novice fishing enthusiasts get off on the right foot. n Spring 2021

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BEHIND THE BUSINESS

Mack's Marina

M

For some small businesses, 2020 was a good year.

Mack’s Marina has always had the reputation of being very customer service oriented. They were the first to bring many new services to The Lake of Egypt. Premium high-quality boat slips, restaurant lounge, outdoor patio, live music, service department open Tuesday thru Saturday 9am-5pm with the only factory authorized technicians on the lake. Tommy, Fritzi, Mack, and staff have always felt like their customers are the best part of every day. They are always looking for anything that benefits The Lake of Egypt community. This year another great addition to the lake community is the El Ranchito Authentic Mexican and Sea Food restaurant new location at Mack’s Marina. They are open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner. Mack’s also offers the largest selection of snacks, soft 16

L ake of Egypt Living

drinks, ice, package beer, wine and spirits on the lake. Don’t forget to checkout www.macksmarina.com for your premier boat rental to experience an amazing day on The Lake of Egypt.

The Janes family opened Mack’s SPORTSCENTER across from the Lake of Egypt Fire Department in 2017. Mack’s SPORTSCENTER is the largest boat dealer in Southern Illinois offering 14 lines of boats from fishing to pleasure including Crownline boats built locally in Southern Illinois.

Along with the vast selection of new watercraft, they offer pre-owned watercraft as well.

The marina today provides everything from snacks and package beer and liquor to soft drinks, full boat service, full

BEHIND THE BUSINESS

boat detailing, pontoon rental and boat docks.

Unlike many local small businesses adversely affected by COVID-19, those operating around The Lake of Egypt had a good 2020.

“Any outdoor oriented business – recreational camping, boating, ATVing; any outdoor event such as hunting and fishing, the industry saw, across the board, about a 30 to 45 percent increase,” Tommy says. “Those (outdoor activities) were about the only things you could do with the family,” he says.

The Janes are hopeful the increased use of Lake of Egypt in 2020 will continue on into the future. He says industry forecasters are indicating the growth will be here for another year or year and a half. The expected growth could have a longterm effect, he believes. “(2020) introduced a lot of new people to boating,” he says.

Those were people who might not, have jumped in to boating,

keep you returning to The Lake of Egypt season after season.

He suggests before you buy a boat, think about three things: Where you’re going to boat, how many people will be in your boating party, and your budget.

“You don’t want to buy a Ferrari to go through the snow, and you don’t want to buy a four-wheel drive dually to park in the city. You have to match what you are going to buy with what you want to do.”

“A watercraft is not like a vehicle. A vehicle’s job is to get you from point A to point B, where a watercraft is meant to entertain and to provide pleasure to the users,” Tommy says.

When you follow the answers to his three questions when looking at a watercraft, you will be a happy boater, he believes.

Your buying decision should not be centered on price, he says. You buy what you need. Should you buy for price, you may end up paying more in the long run. When you discover

but as a family they could spend the time on the water together and remain as safe as they were at home together.

“This should be a win-win for the whole lake – for real estate, marinas, food and anything involved with outdoor activity.” And, he said, it appears those 2020 new boaters will be returning to the lake year-after-year, as national experts are finding the retention rate for new boaters is about 95%.

Your enjoyment of the water can be influenced by your advance planning, and Tommy has a formula he believes will

your purchase does not meet your needs, you will have to make a second purchase to be satisfied.

He highly recommends you boat with a friend or spend some time on a rental boat. With Mack’s we give you the ability to put the money spent on one rental with us towards a new boat purchased from the SPORTSCENTER in the same season.

Following some trends, could be a mistake, too. For example, large horsepower engines are a trend, but Tommy says that could be a mistake. “Perhaps you should spend the money

Spring 2021

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BOAT SALES & RENTALS

12024 Laguna Drive Marion, IL 62959 • 1990 Market Rd. Marion, IL 62959

macksmarina.com mackssportscenter.com 618-964-1821 18

L ake of Egypt Living

BEHIND THE BUSINESS

on an upgraded interior because you don’t go to that many locations and you don’t really need that much horsepower,” he says.

At Mack’s SPORTSCENTER and Mack’s Marina, there is a good chance the attention paid to the new boater makes the boating experience more enjoyable and will bring families back to the lake weekend after weekend.

The new boaters are not just sold a watercraft and dumped onto the lake to fend for themselves. Mack’s handles the sale

with as much hands-on-attention as the boater needs.

“We help them get the boat and accessories and there is hands-on delivery,” Tommy says. “Part of the process may be the financing of the boat, which can be done in-house. We also do trading – for just about anything. And there is maintenance service after the sale. Mack’s is the only place on Lake

of Egypt where you will find all the technicians are factory trained and the business is designated as a service center,” he adds.

When you purchase a boat at locations off the water, the dealer sells you the boat and says, “thank you, goodbye.” Tommy says. “That is the advantage we have that a lot of places don’t have. We have the ability to deliver it right on the water and spend whatever time is needed in the delivery process until the customer is comfortable, whether it is to take it to their house and show them how to tie it up, dock it, or spend an hour with them going over it.

“If they are not a new boater, and do not need the help, we meet them at the dock and send them on their way,” Tommy says.

A lot of the off-lake dealers are at a disadvantage, both as dealers and for the customer. In those instances, you pick up a boat on a trailer, and that is it; there is no on-water familiariza-

tion.

Boaters at Lake of Egypt also have an advantage over boaters at other area lakes. Lake of Egypt was built by Southern Illinois Power Cooperative to serve as a cooling lake making Spring 2021

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BEHIND THE BUSINESS

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L ake of Egypt Living

it a favorite for many fishing enthusiasts. Lake Patrol has always been a vital benefit to the lake.

Tommy says the boaters are very lucky to have the patrol.

“That is such a huge asset. You don’t ever feel like you’re boating alone, even if you are alone, because you have always got that safety net (of the Lake Patrol.)”

If a boater has a problem on the lake, day or night, a phone call to any of the lake’s marinas will bring the Lake Patrol to the boater’s location. All of the marinas have a way to contact the patrol in an emergency.

About 30 to 40 times a year, Mack’s Marina gets a call from a boater in trouble, and usually help is just minutes away. A boater would be hard-pressed to find such service on any other lake.

The Janes family, residents of the lake area, views the Mack’s holdings as being more than a business. Each is a contribution to lake life, created because they saw a need. This year the addition is El Ranchitos Mexican restaurant, and they already are mapping out a major announcement for next year that will benefit the lake and its residents, Tommy says.

“It will be a great improvement, like we always try to do for the lake,” he says. n

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IN THE KITCHEN

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L ake of Egypt Living

I

I’m not sure why I associate salmon with spring, but it was the first thing that came to mind when choosing the culinary topic for this issue. Salmon is a delicious and healthy fish that can be prepared a variety of ways. My favorite way to prepare salmon is to poach the whole side. Preparing a whole side of salmon gives you enough fish for dinner and maybe some leftover for other dishes, too. Of course, this method can be used to poach already-cut salmon filets as well. When buying salmon I recommend buying wild caught over farm raised. Even if the wild caught is frozen I believe the quality to be much better than farm-raised salmon, in most cases.

Farm raised salmon is fed food that has been injected with a synthetic astaxanthin and carotenoid pigment. Let’s skip the synthetic and go for the healthier, wild caught version which provides all kinds of health benefits. Here are some of the nutritional benefits of eating salmon…omega-3 fatty acids, protein, potassium, B vitamins, selenium, the natural antioxidant form of astaxanthin, helps fight inflammation, reduces the risk of heart disease and protects your brain health.

Given all that I suppose we should eat salmon every day.

Poaching is one of the healthiest, most flavorful, and really one of the easiest ways to prepare salmon. This instruction is for my preferred method, “shallow poaching”. This method is basically a gently simmered salmon in liquid called “court bouillon” which contains seasonings, herbs, and usually an acid. The result is a flavorful, melt-in-your mouth salmon that is perfect by itself, but it also gives you a product that you can use in a variety of ways.

IN THE KITCHEN

INGREDIENTS •

Fish poacher or other cooking vessel (foil pan, roasting pan, i.e.) long enough to hold a side of salmon and deep enough for the salmon and “court bouillon” using just enough liquid to partially cover the salmon.

•

Thermometer

•

Cold water

•

White wine

•

Lemon, sliced

•

Onion or Leek (white party only), sliced

•

2 carrots, cut in 1 inch slice

•

2 large stalks of celery, roughly chopped (I like to use the

•

4 sprigs of thyme

•

4 sprigs of fresh parsley

•

1 Bay leaf

•

Kosher salt

•

Whole peppercorns

•

1 whole side of salmon (Check for small bones and rinse

inside stems with the leaves attached)

the skin side to remove any loose scales if you intend to cook it with the skin on. I prefer to remove the skin when poaching. It is really more of a personal preference. For me, the skin develops an unpleasant texture after sitting in the poaching liquid that I don’t like. With or without the skin it will not affect the outcome of your finished product.)

TO START...

1. Sprinkle the salmon with kosher salt and set aside.

2. In a large pan or bowl make a liquid mixture of 4 cups of cold water, 1-2 cups of good quality white wine. (You know what they say…if you wouldn’t drink it, you shouldn’t cook with it either.) These amounts should provide you plenty of poaching liquid, but it will depend on the size of the cooking vessel you are using.

3. Spread ½ of the total ingredients #5 thru #13 into the bottom of the fish poacher or if you are using a different poaching vessel simply add all of the ingredients to the bottom of the vessel. The ingredients will act as your poaching shelf.

4. Place the prepared salmon on the poacher shelf (I usually lightly spray the shelf just to be sure the salmon slides right off when it’s done) and drop the shelf with the salmon into the poacher on top of the herbs and vegetables. If you are not using a poacher, simply place the salmon on top of the ingredients. I suggest that if you are using the ingredients as your poaching ledge it is sometimes better to leave the skin on just to be sure the salmon doesn’t start to break apart. You can

also wrap the salmon in cheesecloth to be sure that it remains intact.

5. Fill the poacher or cooking vessel with as much of the liquid mixture of wine and water as it takes to come about ½ way up the side of the salmon.

6. Sprinkle the remainder of the ingredients #5 thru #13 on top of the salmon if using a fish poacher.

7. Cover with a lid or foil and bring to a simmer over medium heat and keep at a simmer throughout the whole cooking process. It is ideal to keep the poaching liquid at a temp somewhere between 160 degrees and 180 degrees F. I think the slower the fish poaches, the better.

8. The cooking process will take a very short time (no more than 10 minutes once it starts to simmer, depending on the size of your salmon). This is why I think a thermometer is important and takes all the guessing out of it. One minute too long can result in an overcooked and very dry salmon.

Temp your salmon at its thickest section. When it reads 115 degrees take the salmon out and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.

The carryover cooking will finish the salmon to temp (about 145 degrees) and maintain its moistness. If you don’t have a thermometer you can test the doneness by pressing on the top of the fillet with a fork…if it flakes, its done.

9. You can plate the salmon with lemon slices and sprigs of dill for a beautiful presentation. Serve with a yogurt dill sauce (recipe on page 25).

Spring 2021

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Lake of Egypt Living

IN THE KITCHIN

Yogurt Dill Sauce INGREDIENTS •

1 cup of full-fat, unflavored yogurt

•

1 Tablespoon minced shallot

•

1 Tablespoon minced fresh dill

•

2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice

•

A pinch of ground coriander

•

Kosher salt and coarse ground pepper, to taste

Mix all ingredients and refrigerate until ready to serve.

If there is any leftover salmon, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I love having leftover salmon because for the next three days I have a deliciously prepared fish that can be used in so many ways. Here are just a few ideas…

1. Salmon Eggs Benedict (Traditionally made with smoked salmon, but truthfully just as delicious when made with leftover poached salmon.)

2. Salmon Cobb Salad 3. Salmon Patties (Did your Mom make salmon patties for you when you were a kid? You know the ones made out of

that canned salmon that had all the bones and even the fish vertebrae in it? My Mom did and she definitely used saltines as the binder and fried them in Crisco. They were always served with mashed potatoes and peas, and of course, always eaten with ketchup. Definitely not heart healthy. If you want to use some of your leftover salmon to make a delicious version of salmon patties you should try this recipe at www. cookingclassy.com/salmon-patties-salmon-cakes 4. Leftover salmon can be used to make appetizers limited only by your imagination.

• Add flaked salmon to the top of a deviled egg and embellish with a little sprig of dill.

• Use the dill sauce as a base on a crostini and add salmon, avocado and red onion.

• Serve salmon on a cucumber round with crème fraiche and lemon zest.

• Roll it up in a tortilla with a dilled cream cheese and slice into pinwheels.

• Make salmon patties into small croquettes and serve with yogurt dill sauce.

5. Or my husband’s favorite….Portion the leftover salmon into baggies and take it to work for breakfast AND lunch.

–Bon Appétit!

Spring 2021

25

STAY AWHILE

Real Estate

Homes and land available on the beautiful Lake of Egypt.

HOMES

LOTS / LAND

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4 KINGS COURT RD, GOREVILLE

$50,175 | 3 BD 2 BA

$29,000 | .57 ACRES

11775 RIDGEWOOD DR, MARION

0 EGYPT SHORES RD, CREAL SPRINGS

$335,000 | 3 BD 2 BA 15043 SULPHUR SPRINGS RD, CREAL SPRINGS $359,000 | 4 BD 4 BA 3710 DEER RIDGE RD, GOREVILLE 1290 EGYPTIAN HILLS, CREAL SPRINGS This very unique Lake of Egypt Waterfront property has so much to offer you must see it to really appreciate it! You will find 1.85 wooded acres, with 458 feet of waterfront. A private boat launch that leads to a 2 bay covered dock with a lift in each slip. The adorable 3 bedroom lake house was remodeled in 2019. Master bedroom has a Master Bathroom. 2 additional bedrooms and a full bathroom. New hot water heater and has Central Air. Two very nice storage buildings, 1 1/2 car detached garage heated. 458' of shoreline is mostly lined with beautiful natural rock.

Concrete and gravel driveway. Very serene and beautiful property! Waterside deck built in 2017 with an outside bar. All furniture, dishes, grills are included to make this unique home turn key ready! This won't last long!

3 BD 2 BA

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L ake of Egypt Living

$298,500

$100,000 | 1 BD 1 BA

$36,5000 | .95 ACRES 360 SALUKI WAY, GOREVILLE $42,000 | .444 ACRES 380 SALUKI WAY, GOREVILLE $42,000 | .415 ACRES 400 SALUKI WAY, GOREVILLE $39,000 | .437 ACRES

45 WHITE SANDS RD, CREAL SPRINGS $40,000 | 3 BD 1 BA

420 SALUKI WAY, GOREVILLE $49,000 | .416 ACRES

25 LAKE SHORE DR S, GOREVILLE $175,000 | 2 BD 3 BA

320 SALUKI WAY, GOREVILLE $48,500 | .51 ACRES

11809 LAGUNA DR, MARION $1,298,000 | 4 BD 2 BA 260 SUGAR CREEK RD, GOREVILLE $350,000 | 4 BD 2 BA

440 SALUKI WAY, GOREVILLE $49,000 | .528 ACRES LOT 515, 515 DEER LN, GOREVILLE $27,900 | 3.14 ACRES

1280 ROBIN WOODS LN, TUNNEL HILL

LOT 513, 513 DEER LN, GOREVILLE

$85,000 | 2 BD 1 BA

$19,500 | 2.07 ACRES

345 JANEAL DR, GOREVILLE

115 LAKE SHORE DR S, GOREVILLE

$65,000 | 2 BD 1 BA

$55,000 | 9,583.2 SF

STAY AWHILE

 11809 LAGUNA DR

 11775 RIDGEWOOD DR

15043 SULPHUR SPRINGS RD





25 LAKE SHORE DR S

345 JANEAL DR

3710 DEER RIDGE RD

 275 JANEAL DR



260 SUGAR CREEK RD

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Lake of Egypt Living

SWING AWAY

The Club

BY MARK FAULKNER

The Lake of Egypt Country Club is located adjacent to the Power Plant, about a small 14 year old’s 5 wood shot from the 400 foot tall smoke stack. (Don’t ask me how I know that). If you look south as you cross the dam you will see hole #6.

We opened for business in 1969 and have grown to over 200 members. The Club has lots to offer it’s members, including a nine hole golf course with six sets of tees, a swimming pool, locker rooms, driving range, new practice green soon under construction, a restaurant, bar, pro shop, outdoor deck with big screen tv and a dining room available for special events.

The Club is growing in membership again and we hope to reach full capacity before long. Our recent membership drive, called the Buddy Golf Membership has been responsible for bringing in many new members, young and old.

This limited offer provides two full memberships for the price of one. When you join at the regular price for 2021, your golf buddy becomes a full member for free!

Current rates include Senior (62 and over) and Junior (35 and under) $625.

Family rate is $700. Regular membership is $750, and the Regular Family membership is $825.

These are full memberships with all the benefits. The Monday Morning Men’s League is open to all members interested in playing on Monday mornings and the Shotgun start is at 8:30.

The Ladies tee off at 9:00 on Tuesdays and all ladies are welcome! The regular Men’s League is Thursday evening

teeing off at 5:30, and our Friday Night Couples League begins May 14th.

Membership also includes access to the range, pool, special events, live

ing & Cooling Individual Golf Championship July 9, 10 & 11, The Bennies Sink or Swim 4 Lady Scramble, and the Jackson & Gray/IMS 4 Person Mixed Scramble on August 15. These events are open to members and non-members alike.

The Buddy Golf Membership is designed to provide you with an immediate playing partner. But by involving yourself in all the activities offered by the Lake of Egypt Country Club you will both find yourselves with plenty of lifelong friends and golf buddies.

So come check us out in person, on our Facebook page or at our website loecc.com. YOU and WE will be glad you did. n

entertainment, the restaurant and bar.

We also offer five Open competitions, the Two Man Team Championship April 24/25, The Farmers Bank/Little Tractor Two Person Mixed Couples

WANT TO PLAY? Lake of Egypt Country Club 1181 Clubhouse Rd., Marion, IL 62959 (618) 995-2661 loecc.com

Tournament June 6, The Fowler Heat

Spring 2021

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WHAT'S HAPPENIN'

LAKE GUNTERSVILLE CLASSIC

Adam Eggertsen and Dan Shoraga finished in first place at the Lake Guntersville Classic in Scottsboro, Alabama.

The event was held on March 18th and 19th. The Lake of Egypt duo took home a new Bass Cat Pantera II with a Mercury 200 ProXS plus cash and prizes.

WHAT'S UP, DOCK?

In December 2020, Lake of Egypt Docks announced the official purchase of SI Docks. Lake of Egypt Docks is the oldest and only dock builder with facilities on the Lake of Egypt. Lake of Egypt Docks offers new construction, modifications, additions, salvage, repair and more.

NEW RESTAURANT AT THE LAKE

El Ranchito is gearing up for the summer season with their newest location at Mack's Marina and Sportscenter on the Lake of Egypt. El Ranchito serves authentic mexican cuisine. Dine-in and hang out on the patio or order from your boat and get it to go.

LAKE OF EGYPT PADDLE FEST

Grab your paddle and register for Pyramid Acres Marina's 2nd Annual PADDLE FEST on May 15th! Bring your kayak, canoe, paddle board or pedal boat and enjoy a day of water sports with friends and family. Get more information at www.facebook.com/pyramidacresmarina

SALUKI BASSERS OPEN TOURNAMENT The SIU Saluki Bassers will be hosting a spring fundraising open tournament on April 25th at Pyramid Acres Marina on the Lake of Egypt. The entry fee is $100 per boat with 70% of the fee going towards pay out and 30% going to the SIU Fishing Club. The tournament will be following all IDNR and Lake of Egypt regulations. This event is open to all anglers and the Lake of Egypt slot rule has NOT been waived. Anglers can register by contacting Kyle Kreger at (618) 314-6161 or TJ Johns at (224) 637-5227.

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L ake of Egypt Living

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SPIRITS

Holly-would Have a Drink

BY PATRICK AUSTIN

W

With the Grammys and Oscars capturing so much attention currently, I thought it was time to look at celebrity owned liquor brands. There are many great brands in which celebrities have invested their time and money. In the past, if a famous person’s name was put on something, it usually was an attempt to revive or build a brand. The major trend in the past was product placement. It seems that you would always see a liquor or wine bottle in a movie with the label facing the camera. There are even scenes in movies where an entire bar would be product from a single company like Diageo. A perfect example is in a 1965 movie which James Bond started pouring his Smirnoff vodka martinis and he didn’t switch brands until 2002. I would assume that the product placement business was very lucrative then and probably continues to be today.

In 2017, the actor George Clooney and his partners sold their tequila brand, Casamigos, for an estimated one billion dollars. Clooney and one of his partners, while drinking tequila in Mexico, decided to create the brand. They brought on one additional friend/partner, each invested six-hundred 34

Lake of Egypt Living

thousand dollars, and launched the brand in 2013. When they sold, each of them received one third of the billion dollar sale price. My guess is that after news circulated about that, many celebrities decided to take a hard look at putting their name on a bottle.

I will mention a few brands that we carry and will describe them. These brands are currently on our shelves and they are really good products. Several more will be introduced before this article is printed. So, if you come across one you are interested in, please reach out to one of our stores. While I was writing this, I actually received a text message from a sales rep wanting me to look at a canned sparkling tequila drink partially owned by an actress.

Let’s start with tequila since it seems to be the big one when it comes to celebrity owned liquor.

Termana tequila is crafted in a small Mexican town amidst the highest peaks of the Jalisco Highlands. Every step of their tequila-making process is meticulously done to create delicious tequila that truly honors the land it comes from. Termana is offered in Blanco and Reposado. It is owned by Dwayne (the Rock) Johnson.

Cincoro Tequila, which is described as a super premium tequila, is owned by the super premium athlete Michael Jor-

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SPIRITS

dan. The bottle has no number 23. Nor, does it have M.J.’s name on it; however, he most definitely is a part owner.

This juice comes from the Highlands and Lowlands of Jalisco and is 100% Weber blue agave. Cincoro Tequila is in a classy looking bottle and is great tasting. It should be on your home bar.

Santo Fino Tequila, is an "old-world” style tequila, which is made with 100% blue Weber agave. Santo says their tequila is the perfect pour for either shooting or mixing. This brand is celebrity co-owned by the red rocker, Sammy Hagar, and the Mayor of Flavor town, Guy Fieri.

Listed below are a few more without a description that you should try. These products are as good as the ones mentioned above. As you know, lists can get way out of control.

• Dos Primos is owned by Thomas Rhett.

• Deleon is owned by Sean Combs.

• I will not expand the list on the other types like I did on tequila.

Instead, I will list the brand and the celebrity. I hate to ramble on with this but I am amazed every time I walk down our store aisles and think about who has a part in these liquor brands.

• Ciroc Vodka is a super smooth grape based vodka owned by Sean Combs.

• Crystal Head Vodka, supposedly filtered through Herkimer diamonds, is owned by Dan Aykroyd.

• Smithworks Vodka is called the spirit of the Heartland. They use corn from Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma. This is owned by Blake Shelton and Kenny Chesney.

• D’usse’ Cognac is extremely smooth and easy to drink. It is owned by Jay-Z. • 99 Canadian Whisky is finished in 36

Lake of Egypt Living

red wine casks. Both the distillery and winery are owned by Wayne Gretzky.

I can think of several more celebrity-owned brands that we carry.

However, you really should try some of these brands, not because of who owns them, but because they really are quality products. In my opinion, I think with the internet and social media, celebrities are more cautious of what they put their names on these days. These brands are great conversation pieces for your home bar and your friends will be as surprised as you are by who the owners are. I am confident, when you look online, you will find one or two of your favorite celebs that have their own brands - so give them a try. Once you

NEED A DRINK? Speakeasy Liquors 1310 Halfway Rd, Marion, IL 62959 (618) 998-9463 speakeasyliquors.com

start searching, you will come across several celebrity owned wines and beers that I didn’t mention. It would not be practical to list them all in this article.

I hope you enjoyed reading about celebrities that are involved in the liquor business. Next time you are watching one of your favorite movies, see how many product placements you can spot.

Your favorite celebrity may have a product placed in the show that you can enjoy while watching.

Come in and see us soon! n

1304 CORNELL ST., MARION, IL 62959 WWW.LITTLETRACTOR.COM

Spring 2021

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HELPING PEOPLE

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ONE LAKE HOUSE AT A TIME

Spring 2021

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A

CHILD OF THE

LAKE

J

Jon Cavaness considers himself a child of the lake.

While he did not grow up in a home on Lake of Egypt, the shores and waters of the lake are the territory where he spent most of his youth.

His wife, Lisa, has grown to love the lake as much as her husband. “Many people have been lifelong residents of the lake and love it,” she says. “We are new lake-loving residents.”

Jon and Lisa were born and raised in the Marion area and are devoted to the community. Lisa is a retired Marion elementary teacher and, after retirement, has joined in helping out with their business, Jackson and Gray Insurance in Marion.

Both Jon and Lisa wanted to continue to be part of the Marion community, 40

Lake of Egypt Living

BY TERRANCE GEESE PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIE BAER

and Lake of Egypt, they say, is close enough to their office to allow them to continue their strong involvement in the Marion community.

“It is about 18 minutes to the office and it is a nice, easy drive,” Jon says.

“On my way in to work, I can think about my day and on the way home, I can think about the day and maybe make a few follow-up phone calls.”

He also has time to reflect and look forward to the beautiful sunset in store for the couple at the lake. And, with an abundance of services at the lake, the couple finds once they arrive home, they really don’t need to leave the lake as services in all facets of life have multiplied.

Places such as, Egyptian Hills, Mack’s Marina, Pyramid Acres, and the Lake of Egypt Country Club add to the enter-

tainment of the lake.

The couple acquired their home at Lake of Egypt in 2014 – not a new home, but a home built about 40 years ago.

The purchase came at a time when they were in the midst of a major reconstruction project, rebuilding a 110-year-old Marion office building that had been damaged by fire.

The crews working on the office building finished that job and switched sites to start updating and remodeling the Lake of Egypt home. The project soon made extensive changes to the home that gave it a fresh, updated look.

When the work started in November 2014, the house had two bedrooms and an attached garage, but you had to go outside to access the house. The walkout

Spring 2021

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L ake of Egypt Living

they have built two houses, remodeled two houses and an office building.

Buying the lake house came about because the couple had been looking for something to do; something that would give them a new project as they had become empty nesters.

“We were down at the lake one day with friends on a boat and saw the ‘For Sale’ sign. We just loved the location.,” Jon recalls.

“Our point on the lake has quite a bit of shoreline,” he says.

“We just decided to do it. We thought, ‘If we don’t like it, we

BEFORE

basement was one big room with a kitchenette in the back, Jon recalls.

“One of the things my wife wanted was an entrance from the garage to the house,” he says. “So, we added on to the north side of the house.”

Next, the screened-in porch became a sun room and the basement was converted to a master bedroom, large walk in closet, remodeled bathroom and a utility room. In addition, a pool table room, storage areas, and a half bath completed the space.

“We basically gutted it,” he says, “and added on a lower porch and upper deck that is also covered. A detached two-car garage was also added.”

“It worked out great because the same people who worked on the office worked on this house,” Jon says.

The entire project was designed keeping in mind the couple enjoys entertaining. In fact, at Christmas you will find as many as 45 relatives of Lisa’s at the house at the same time, as well as, many other larger parties.

“The way we have configured the house, we can entertain a lot of people by utilizing both indoor and outdoor spaces,” Jon says.

The two are not inexperienced at the remodeling business as

Before

Before

BEFORE

’’

We just decided to do it.

We thought, ‘If we don’t like it, we can always sell.'

Spring 2021

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44

Lake of Egypt Living

Spring 2021

45

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Get On The Ball

This

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Lake of Egypt

Country Club 413 North Market Street | Marion, Illinois 62959 Phone: (618) 993-6337 | Fax: (618) 993-3383 46

L ake of Egypt Living

1181 Club House Road, Marion, IL 62959 (618) 995-2661 | www.loecc.com

can always sell.’”

Selling was not necessary and is a forgotten thought; they

love living on the lake. The Cavaness couple have two boys, Nick (29) and Zach (24), who enjoy coming home for visits on holidays, birthdays, and for summertime fun boating or jet-skiing and visiting friends and family. Jon and Lisa always love when their boys are home.

“It is nice and peaceful during the winter months. The water is so quiet and the scenery is really beautiful,” Jon says.

“It has a calming effect and the snow makes it a perfect wintry scene.”

The location of the property is ideal in location, at about mid-lake shoreline. “Pretty much everyone goes past our property. We can sit out on our dock and greet people pretty much all weekend long.

“It has worked out so well, my brother and his fiancé have a house and cottage in our neighborhood,” Jon says. They also love being at the lake.

When the major work at the home was complete, it was time to do the interior decorating. Lisa and a shopping friend, Luke

O’Neal, went on excursions looking for the exact items. All of the furnishings were done with entertainment of friends in mind, the couple says. Seating was done so as to create conversation areas.

“No matter where you are at, everyone always ends up in the kitchen,” Jon says. For that reason, the construction work included a large island where family and guests can congregate.

The great room area also includes a favorite item Lisa brought to the home, a large dining table where they can have family dinners.

Basically, the upstairs area is all one room – for cooking, eating, watching television, and conversation area– creating an open concept. There are also two bedrooms and a full bath to complete the space.

“When you are in there, you can see everybody at one time with a feeling a togetherness” Jon says.

For added comfort during times like this year’s period of Arctic freeze, the couple added a two-sided fireplace to the upstairs, Lisa says. “It is great for those cold days.”

The Cavaness couple find the lake to be like a small, friendly community. Sure, they do go boating once in a while, but most often they, and other couples, go out on the lake, drop anchor, float and visit and talk – just having a good time on the lake.

Jon says he has been around the lake for enough years to see a lot of changes. There are a lot more houses today, and larger houses, he says. Lake homes today are much more than the small cabins he remembers from his youth.

He also sees a lot more boats on the lake, with many being much larger than in days’ past. During the early years, he often would tie up at docks of the Elks Club, he recalls. The lake wasn’t busy and much of the area had not been developed.

“Now,” Jon says, “it is fashionable to be at the lake.” He and Lisa say they have seen rapid changes in the past six years.

They speculate that might be because people are becoming “empty nesters” and, like them, are seeking a change.

A good life is filled with pleasant moments, and the Cavaness couple have discovered some real pleasantries at the lake, such as the sunsets. “We watch them every night,” Lisa says.

Spring 2021

47

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Lake of Egypt Living

CARLY

With the remodeling of their home, the couple made it easy to watch the rising and fall of the sun and the changing of the seasons.

“Because of the positioning of our house, we get to see the rises and setting sun from inside the house,” Jon says.

“Basically, our house has a panoramic view of the lake. From any spot inside our house, you can see the water,” Jon says.

The lake home has become the place members of the family want to be for holidays, and there is

plenty of room for having everyone.

“We like to entertain; we like to have friends and family,” Lisa says, speaking while the couple was en route home from Alabama where they had been repairing a hurricane-damaged residence. The day after their return, 18 people were due to arrive at the lake for a murder mystery party at their home, Lisa says.

After the nation recovers from COVID-19, Jon believes property values at the lake will be on the increase. People have learned they often can work from any place, and the lake will be very popular for a home office.

“What better place to spend your time while working than to be working at the lake,” Jon says. “You can take a 30- or 40-minute break and go and enjoy the dock,” he says. “Or you can be fishing and working at the same time.” A perfect example was, our two sons spent several months workSpring 2021

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Lake of Egypt Living

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ing from here during this time, which brought a positive to a difficult situation.

Another legacy of COVID, Jon says, is that people from Missouri found the lake.

Chicagoans, perhaps, found it first, but the summer of 2020 saw a heavy flow of people from the Cape Girardeau and St. Louis areas. He recalls talking to people from Jackson, Mo., who came to look at four lake homes one weekend. “I don’t think they got to see even one; they were all sold before their appointments,” Jon says.

“The activity around here is pretty great,” he says. n

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L ake of Egypt Living

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Spring 2021

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TECH TALK

Own Thy Power

BY TIM SERLES

L

Like clockwork, almost every household in the United States receives a monthly electric bill. Unlike receiving a utility bill, electric rates are hardly consistent.

They rise and fall with peak demand, and prices are trending higher overall.

The cost of electricity has increased by 30% over the last decade, and it continues to climb. Furthermore, the amount due on one’s bill not only reflects the household’s energy consumption, but also what might be used in the future.

These predictive amounts are known as “capacity” charges. The cost consumers pay for capacity charges is volatile.

These charges are sold at auction and can be unpredictable.

Contrasting the cost of utility-delivered electricity, the price of installing residential solar systems has fallen by 64% over the last decade, according to 54

Lake of Egypt Living

the U.S. Department of Energy. This steady reduction in cost resulted in the creation of jobs, cleaner air, and less strain on existing grid infrastructure.

Consequently, lower cost solar installations lead to big savings for system owners. Generating solar power also reduces strain on the grid during peak demand, saving utility companies millions of dollars. Savings that are not passed on to their customers. As more electronics are used in households, the value of solar power will continue to rise, especially considering the largescale paradigm shift that is on the horizon as we move from traditionally fueled vehicles to electric ones.

Going solar is a sound and feasible financial investment for many people, one that provides relief from the volatile cost of electricity. Many people have

decided to go solar because, in effect, they are prepaying their electric bills for the next 25 years! Once the system is financed and a monthly payment amount is established, that payment does not increase for the duration of the loan period. Instead of ‘renting’ the power they consume from a utility company, those with solar own it.

On average, people who generate solar power in Illinois save $900 annually on their electric bill! These savings increase with electricity rates! n

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TALKIN' PETS

Living at the Lake with your Pets

T

BY DR. MIKE TROOP

This is the first of a series of articles on keeping your pets healthy while enjoying living at the lake. There are many pet health risks that are unique to living by or enjoying the lake lifestyle that we will discuss in the future issues of Lake of Egypt Living. Some of these risks include: snakebites, heat stroke, boating accidents, drowning, bacterial diseases, blue green algae, heart worm disease, tick borne diseases, etc.

Other pet topics that will be discussed are proper vaccinations for your dogs and cats, how to control fleas and ticks, importance of microchipping, and proper nutrition for your pets.

In this first article I want to cover what a pet owner needs to have at home in a pet first aid kit. A lot of the emergency phone calls we receive at Troop Veterinary Services can be handled at home if you have the correct over the counter medications or supplies. Please be aware that many medications and home treatment for dogs CANNOT be used for cats. Also, these

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Lake of Egypt Living

home remedies should ONLY be used under the direction of a veterinarian.

The following is a list of items needed in your pet first aid kit: 1. Sterile gauze and adhesive white tape. One of the most common emergencies we see are cuts or lacerations. These are usually on the legs or paws from stepping on glass or metal in the water. I have also seen some severe lacerations on dogs from running into the tongue or fenders of boat trailers. If your pet has a cut, especially if it is bleeding, it is important to apply pressure and keep it covered.

2. Bottle of 3% hydrogen peroxide and an oral syringe.

(Not for use in cats) Dogs are always eating things they shouldn’t and the two most common toxins ingested are chocolate and rodenticides. Hydrogen peroxide is an effective emetic for dogs and often induces vomiting within minutes of ingestion. Always call a veterinarian to get the proper amount to give to your dog. NEVER give hydrogen peroxide to cats.

3. Antibiotic ointment. For any topical wound whether it is a cut or an abscess, a liberal dose of a topical antibiotic, such as Neosporin, applied on the surface is always a good idea to start treatment at home.

4. Saline eye solution. Swimming in the lake can often times

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TALKIN' PETS

cause eye irritation and dogs and cats frequently get dust or When pets are in pain their instincts take over and they don’t foreign material in their eyes. Gently flushing their eyes with want to be touched or picked up. A properly fitting muzzle is saline eye solution is the first step in treatment for eye irritaa humane way to prevent you from getting bit while you are tion. If your pets’ eyes don't show immediate improvement to transporting the pet to the veterinary clinic. flushing with saline solution you should call your veterinarian.

11. A list of your pet’s medications and veterinarian informa5. Benadryl. This is a very important item for both dog tion. Many of our patients have two veterinarians due to the and cat owners. Benadryl is used to treat any type of allergic reaction and is also effective for insect stings or bites. Benadnumber of vacationers to this area and seasonal residents livryl comes in two strengths of capsules and also a liquid form. ing at the lake. It is very helpful if you have a list of the medSmall dogs and cats would use the children’s formulation (12.5 ications your pet is currently taking to ensure proper therapy mg) and medium to large dogs would need the adult strength can be initiated without any side effects or drug interactions.

(25 mg). Always call your veterinarian to get the correct dose Also, the name and phone number of any other veterinarians for your pets’ weight.

6. Aspirin. (Not for use in cats). Aspirin is an effective home involved in your pet’s health care is needed so complete medical remedy for dogs with fever or musculoskeletal injuries. Dogs records can be obtained. gets a lot of sprains and aspirin is an effective anti-inflammato- The last thing that is very helpful in dealing with pet emerry. Aspirin comes in two strengths, low gencies is—your cell phone. With the dose 81 mg and regular adult 325 mg. limitations brought on by COVID 19, Call your veterinarian to get the corNEED A VET? we have been using telemedicine more rect dosage based on your pet’s weight.

Troop Veterinary Services every month. A picture “is truly worth a NEVER give aspirin to cats and NEVER 1500 IL-37 South, Marion, IL 62959 (618) 995-1000 use other OTC pain meds such as Tylethousand words” and pictures or videos facebook.com/troopvet nol, Aleve, Ibuprofen, etc. for your pets. are extremely helpful in determining the 7. Pepto-Bismol. (Not for use in cats) severity of the pet’s medical condition.

Pepto is an effective home remedy to give I hope you have learned some helpful tips and information to dogs who have a GI upset. Due to the aspirin like substance in Pepto its’ use should be avoided in cats. I will usually recom- from this article. Again, home remedies should ALWAYS be used as directed by your veterinarian! n mend a couple of doses of Pepto for a dog with diarrhea but if this does not work an appointment is necessary.

8. Digital thermometer. Dogs and cats run fevers just like humans do and it is important to know your pets’ correct temperature and when an elevated temperature is a true emergency.

The normal temperature for dogs and cats is 101-102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. I get concerned if a patient’s temperature is over 103 degrees and heat stroke starts when the temperature gets over 105. High fever can be caused by environmental heat, bacterial or viral infections, bite wounds, inflammation, and severe anxiety. Temperatures less than 100 degrees are also very serious and can indicate the beginning of shock, frost bite, or organ failure.

9. Ice packs. These are useful to treat pets with heat stroke, insect or snake bites, or musculoskeletal injuries. Ice therapy can be detrimental to some pet injuries so always use under the direction of a veterinarian.

10. Muzzle/Leash. Buy a muzzle that correctly fits your dog or cat and hope you never have to use it. I can’t count how many times an owner has brought their pet in for an emergency and the owner has severe bite wounds on their arms and hands.

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Lake of Egypt Living

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INFORMATION

Where's that?

Where are the nearest emergency rooms?

HEARTLAND REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

3333 W. Deyoung St. Marion, IL 62959 (618) 998-7000 HERRIN HOSPITAL

201 S. 14th St. Herrin, IL 62948 (618) 942-2171

Where are the nearest drug stores?

GOREVILLE PROFESSIONAL PHARMACY

901 S. Broadway Goreville, IL 62939 (618) 995-1555

Where are the nearest grocery stores?

GOREVILLE FOOD MARKET

KROGER

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1704 W. Deyoung St. Marion, IL 62959 (618) 993-6330

3307 W. Commercial Marion, IL 62959 (618) 997-7494

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1305 N. Russell St. Marion, IL 62959

Where are the post offices?

GOREVILLE

117 S. Broadway Goreville, IL 62939 CREAL SPRINGS

112 W. Blue Ave. Creal Springs, IL 62922 MARION

205 E. Main St. Marion, IL 62959

Where are the town halls?

GOREVILLE

700 W. Main St. Goreville, IL 62939 (618) 995-2421

105 W. Collins St. Goreville, IL 62939 (618) 995-2157

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Lake of Egypt Living

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Where are the nearest restaurants?

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GUARDIANS OF

SAFET The Illinois Department of Natural Resources are working to keep the state's wildlife and its many residents and visitors safe.

BY TERRANCE GEESE

L

Lake of Egypt is a private lake where the owners grant you access to the water for an enjoyable lake life. Although the lake is private, the owners, Southern Illinois Power Cooperative, have always enjoyed a close working relationship with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the protectors of the state’s wildlife and guardians of the safety of outdoorsmen.

When you are boating on the waters of Lake of Egypt, especially on a weekend, you will encounter both the lake’s private Lake Patrol and officers of the DNR. Most likely one of those Conservation

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Lake of Egypt Living

TY Police officers will be Chris Johnson.

Johnson is dedicated to the outdoors and is a past winner of the DNR Officer of the Year award. Along with his performance on the job, he was honored as a basketball coach and for conducting a hunt program for underprivileged youth.

The DNR officers patrol the lake and its surroundings for boating violations, hunting enforcement and fishing enforcement, Johnson says. “But we don’t have a relationship on limiting the number of fish, or being able to enforce any of the limits that Lake of Egypt sets for themselves,” he says.

Spring 2021

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L ake of Egypt Living

Johnson has one strong desire involving Lake of Egypt.

“I just wish we could let the DNR start to regulate that lake so we could enforce the stock limits. It is worrisome that people take too much.”

In order for that to happen on a private lake, an agreement is needed between DNR and the power company.

What the officers are watching for often depends on the time of year, Johnson says. In the summer, as an example, he finds people without lifejackets in the boat and people who are operating a boat under the influence.

Along with being on the water almost every summer weekend, Johnson says he likes to be on hand at all of the lake’s tournament events to meet the sportsmen. “We try to talk with them and find out if there is anything they need or anything we can do,” he says. “And we try to see if there are any questions we can answer. That is a big thing that we like to do, being proactive.

“That’s one of the cool things about our job; just being able to help people,” he says.

Enforcement is made pleasant at Lake of Egypt because the officers find strong support from the residents.

“They are very welcoming to us out there, and we appreciate that,” he says.

Conservation officers and the private Lake Patrol work together to make the lake safe, Johnson says.

He says DNR officers often relieve other agencies of han-

’’

dling minor jobs that are important to the people involved.

Many local law enforcement agencies are understaffed, and

DNR officers are happy to give them a break. The county and

I just wish we could let the DNR start to regulate that lake so we could enforce the stock limits.

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Lake of Egypt Living

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state officers can handle the major crime while the DNR officers are able to assist the property owner with lesser problems, such as trespassing, he says.

Often the aid given by DNR officers to lake residents is routine, but sometimes it takes on a more serious tone, such as the day of the goose incident.

A goose was crapping on the dock and was killed by an irate property owner, Johnson says. “People witnessed it, they knew it was wrong, and called us. We went out there and took action on it,” he says.

The casual observer may not realize part of an officer’s job is traffic control on the water.

“There is so much traffic out there in these no wake areas, and everybody has nice docks and nobody wants people just blowing through Clifty Creek and creating those huge waves that are going to hurt their docks. They like it when we come out and slow people down. A lot of times, just our visual presence will slow people down.”

This past summer, Johnson says, people couldn’t go to baseball tournaments, concerts or anything else, so there was a lot larger presence of families on the lake. That increased the need for enforcement and the need for officers to simply be there to answer questions.

Officers often spend time with the resorts, marinas and other businesses around the lake, he says. And the businesses help in getting out the word the officers are not at the lake just to write tickets. They want to keep the lake safe.

The desire to see the outdoors, and the state’s waters, safe

traces back to when Johnson made the decision to become a game warden “I grew up hunting and I had family members who did It right and family members who didn’t. I got to a point in life when I had kids and I wanted to do things right and make sure my kids had the opportunity to hunt, just like I did. I had already been in the military and had already gotten my degree and I just thought, ‘You know, maybe being a game warden is the right thing for me because I love to be outdoors; I care about the outdoors, and it’s something I think I could be really good at.’”

He says there is nothing more frustrating than to be a hunter who has done everything right, at considerable expense, and on opening day being in the tree stand waiting for Bullwinkle and seeing a trespasser.

“Those are the things I want to stop,” he says. Johnson says his least favorite part of his job is knowing people have poached and he is unable to catch them.

“That’s probably among the most important things, that I protect the resources.”

Seasonal changes also cause changes in enforcement actions. During deer season, DNR will be working with the Shawnee National Forest as the forest property at the lake has a lot of hunters heading that way.

“We also work with the power company. We had several cases this past season of guys who were sneaking onto power company and hunting without permission,” he says.

He says he at times encounters such varied problems as people shooting turtles. “But, for the most part, the people who live at the lakes are the people who Spring 2021

69

ing the wildlife of Southern Illinois, and that dedication recently took him and his partner to Mississippi after they learned about the poaching of a large deer in Illinois. The Mississippi trip resulted in the seizure of four deer.

“Those people down there didn’t think they would get caught, thinking if they made it back to Mississippi all would be fine,” he says.

Johnson says he worries about an upcoming loss of officers. Within the next four years, about 50 veteran officers plan retirement.

“That is kind of worrisome for us. If the budget is bad, we can’t hire more officers,” he says.

So far, officers don’t know what the budget will be with the fight against COVID having strained the state’s finances.

In addition to the normal patrolling for safety and violations, Johnson recalls one incident when he became a part of an evening’s entertainment.

This past summer he had to arrest a person for operating under the influence.

“As we were trying to get him back are good to us.”

Good interaction with people is a key to gaining trust for a DNR officer, and that starts with positive interaction with youngsters. Johnson, when off duty, likes to fish, and on one of those fishing days he was having pretty good luck catching crappies. Nearby was a youngster who was fishing, but without the luck of Johnson.

The youngster finally asked what was the secret. ”Sir, how are you catching all of those crappies?”

“Well, I am using this jig I think they really like,” was the response. And Johnson offered to place one on the youngster’s line. The youngster soon was able to exhibit a fish caught on his line.

Johnson later met the parents and 70

Lake of Egypt Living

gave the youngster a handful of jigs.

“What is so neat about that is when I go back out there and fish and meet up with those same people, we now have a friendship.

“I enjoy catching fish, but I enjoy just meeting people, too. Especially young kids who are interested in the same things as I am. I just enjoy talking with them.”

Johnson says his job depends on public support. “If anyone is having an issue, I encourage them to call me and we can see if we can help them. If they know of some poaching going on, we definitely would like to help them out.”

Johnson can be contacted at 618-2188211.

Johnson is very dedicated to preserv-

to the dock, we observed two jet skis that were coming in way after dark. We tried to get them to stop, and they kept refusing to stop and it became such a spectacle, the band quit playing at Pyramid Acres.”

Johnson and the pursuit of the jet skis suddenly became the evening’s highlight.

“It was amusing and encouraging as the public really supported us. After we got them arrested, everybody clapped for us. We should have charged admission.

“After that incident, I told a lot of my co-workers I am really glad I work the area I work because we have people who really support us and treat us good.” n

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UPCOMING EVENTS

ADULT EASTER EGG HUNT AT STARVIEW Apr 03 11:00am - 8:00pm Address: 5100 Wing Hill Rd. Cobden IL 62920 Phone: +1 618-893-9463 Why should we let the kiddos have all the fun?! Join us for our 4th annual adult Easter egg hunt!Enjoy a wine tasting for $5 and receive a ticket to find an egg in our yard. Everyone will be lucky!

Prizes range from gift certificates and drinks to wine themed merchandise.

EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE AT BALD KNOB CROSS Apr 04 6:30am Address: Bald Knob Mountian Alto Pass IL 62905 Phone: +1 618-893-2344 Each year, hundreds of people make the trek to the top of Bald Knob mountain to usher in the dawn with a service of worship and praise, celebrating Easter morning. Annual Easter Sunrise Service held at the 111 foot Bald Knob Cross, includes music & refreshments.

Complete with bagpipes, and a brief message, worshippers bring lawn chairs, blankets and a spirit of expectation as they celebrate together the dawning of Easter.

GEM AND MINERAL SHOW Apr 10 to Apr 11 10:00pm - 5:00pm From $5.00 Address: 1602 Sioux Drive Marion IL 62959 Phone: +1 618-997-3690 Southern Illinois Earth Science Club hosts the annual show to include several types of exhibits featuring minerals, fossils, Indian artifacts, gemstones,

jewelry, shells and lapidary work. Along with exhibits, there will be silent auctions and door prizes. This event is held at The Pavilion in Marion.

OAK STREET ART FAIR Apr 24 10:00am - 5:00pm Address: 1515 Oak Street Murphysboro IL 62966 Phone: +1 618-684-3455 Each April, the Oak Street Art Fair is a celebration of art and music in the historic General John A. Logan neighborhood of Murphysboro, Illinois.

Artists from around the region bring their work out of the studio and onto the brick street to show and sell while enjoying casual conversation with visitors. See artists working in ceramics, painting, sculpture, glass, metals, jewelry, prints, fibers, photography, leather, stained glass, wood, quilting, mixed media, and musical instruments.

Meanwhile, some of the area's most beloved musicians perform on the Oak Leaf Stage for a free all-day concert.

All this and structured children's art activities make for a fun day for families and singles alike!

Come out to Murphysboro between 10 and 5 for (free) live music on the Oak Leaf Stage, great local art, and structured art activities for children.

BLESSING OF THE BOATS Apr 24 11:00am - 4:00pm Address: 2063 Marina Rd Murphysboro IL 62966 Phone: +1 618-687-4914 Pastor Strong will deliver the blessing, Songs by Aaron Phelps and Lewis Creek will rock the patio! This is an

outside event. Boat drinks and food will be for sale on Moody’s patio!

MARKET DAYS FLEA MARKET & VENDOR FAIR May 08 to Sep 11 8:00am - 3:00pm Address: 800 S. 27th St. Mount Vernon IL 62864 Phone: +1 618-242-3151 Located at Veteran's Park, 800 S. 27th St., Market Days occurs on the second Saturday of every month from May to September. At Market Days, a variety of vendors sell diverse items such as antiques, collectibles, handmade items, plants, jewelry, blacksmith, flea market finds, produce, baked goods, kettle corn and much more. Admission is free and concessions provided by Billy Bob's BBQ. Visit, shop, and enjoy the Market atmosphere at Mt. Vernon's Market Days.

REGIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER EXHIBIT AT THE ELLA ELIZABETH HISE MUSEUM Feb 02 to May 14 Address: 3575 College Road Harrisburg IL 62946 Phone: +1 618-252-5400 The Ella Elizabeth Hise Museum of Regional Art at Southeastern Illinois College will open the Regional Photographer Exhibit Tuesday, Feb. 2. This show will run through Friday, May 14.

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, the museum is limiting capacity to no more than 10 visitors in the museum at one time. Due to the possibility of abrupt closures due to the virus, appointments are encouraged. Masks are required in the museum as well as on SIC’s campus and no food or drinks are allowed in the museum.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Hours of operation for the Ella Elizabeth Hise Museum of Regional Art are Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., the first Sunday of the month, 1-4 p.m., or by appointment. For more information or to make an appointment, contact 618-252-5400 ext. 2599, email hisemuseum@sic.edu or visit www.sic.edu/ hisemuseum.

The Museum, located on the south side of the college, contains three spacious galleries, as well as a beautiful front entrance foyer, classroom/reception area and professional workspace. The mission of the museum is to honor Ella Elizabeth Hise and foster an appreciation for visual arts works, exhibits, programs, and cultural partnerships that celebrate Southern Illinois and the surrounding region.

BLESSING OF THE JEEPS AT BALD KNOB CROSS May 15 8:00am - 1:00pm Address: 3630 Bald Knob Road Alto Pass IL 62905 Phone: +1 618-713-8516 Our friends and regional jeep groups, Chicago Jeep Union and the Midwest Jeep Alliance, will be assisting in offering two jeep blessings. The first blessing will be at 9:30am with the second being at 12 noon. Jeep N Shawnee members will be leading tours one hour after the blessings of the surrounding National forest. This will be a friendly ride threw the Shawnee with great views of the cross in all its glory. All jeeps welcome so gather your friends and family and lets make this the largest jeep blessing around.

SAILING DAY May 15 12:00pm - 4:00pm 74

Lake of Egypt Living

Address: 20960 Hazlet State Park Road Carlyle IL 62231 Phone: +1 314-325-9283 Admission is free. All are invited to the CSA harbor on that day to tour the facility and take rides on many different types of sailboats as desired. Learn about sailing opportunities for all ages and abilities.

LAKE OF EGYPT PADDLE FEST May 15 12:00pm - 5:00pm Address: 10257 Marina Road Marion IL 62959 Phone: +1 618-964-1184 Bring your kayak, canoe, paddle board or pedal boat and enjoy a day of water sports with friends and family on beautiful Lake of Egypt. Over $800 in prizes were given away to last year's participants. Let's beat our registration total from last time out!

Cost is $25/adult, $20/child 12 and under. Anyone who registers after April 17, 2021 is not guaranteed a T-shirt.

Team River Runner participants must register directly through pamarina2018@yahoo.com or mail registration form to: Paddle Fest, 340 Shawnee Meadows Lane - Anna, IL 62906.

home is the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce 8th Annual Southern Illinois Home & Outdoor Expo. The Annual Expo has become known for showcasing some of the best home improvement vendors in the area. The Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce Home Show has earned a reputation for attracting hundreds of people from the area who are interested in remodeling, furniture, appliances, outdoor activities, pet care, gardening & landscaping, crafts, hobbies, and so much more.

This year due to current restrictions we are planning our Home Show for outdoors. We will again be at the Times Square Mall, but this year we will be located in the North Parking lots. We are anticipating a high demand for booth spaces and urge you to reserve your booth quickly. Booth Spaces will be designated at a first come, first serve basis.

BLESSING OF THE BIKES AND BLESS FEST May 23 Address: Bald Knob Cross Alto Pass IL 62905 Phone: +1 618-893-2344

8TH ANNUAL SOUTHERN ILLINOIS HOME & OUTDOOR EXPO May 21 to May 22 5:00pm - 6:00pm Address: 3917 Broadway St Mount Vernon IL 62864 Phone: +1 618-242-5725

Thousands of motorcyclists travel to Bald Knob Mountain, Southern Illinois’ highest point and the site of the Bald Knob Cross of Peace, located just outside of Alto Pass, about 10 miles south of Murphysboro on IL-127. There will be a special message at 1pm for a safe riding season. Roadkill stew & chili served. In the village of Alto Pass, more food, live music, local beer & wine, and raffles and shirt and T-shirt sales.

Spring is the time to plan your home improvement projects and get your home ready before the summer fun begins. The best place to find innovative ideas and latest improvements for your

HERRINFESTA ITALIANA May 25 to May 31 12:00pm - 10:00pm Address: 3 South Park Avenue Herrin IL 62948

UPCOMING EVENTS

Phone: +1 618-942-5055 This event features great Italian food, family fun, an array of contests for every family member and a fine arts and crafts exhibit to spotlight the creative talents of regional artists and craftsmen. The City of Herrin rolls out the red carpet for the major yearly event for a week long run in May. The Piazza is the entertainment venue at HerrinFesta Italiana.

Located behind the Herrin Civic Center, the Piazza houses our Quality Connection Piazza Stage and the Piazza Beverage and Wine Gardens where you can enjoy your favorite adult beverages. HerrinFesta's Midway features great food, a carnival, and a variety of vendor booths. Entry into the Midway is free, and open to all ages. One of HerrinFesta's premier events is the annual Bocce tournaments. Bocce is an Italian sport that combines the precision of horseshoes with a bowling-style play.

OLD SETTLERS DAYS Jun 03 to Jun 05 Address: 109 N Maincross Galatia IL 62935 Phone: +1 618-268-4027 This family fun event offers free rides and entertainment each evening, starting with Nashville star Kendell Marvel, hometown hero. Lions Club food tent Is open each day with their famous BBQ. There is a small flea market, including popcorn, henna painting and flea market vendors. Saturday morning Kiddie Games include Frog Jumping, Bubble Gum blowing and more. At 1:00pm is a Giant Auction. A parade begins at 5pm.

ANNABELLE STREET FESTIVAL Jun 11 to Jun 12 Address: Main St Anna IL 62906 Phone: +1 618-833-6311 The Annabelle Street Festival will be held in downtown Anna, IL. There will be a car show, Fri evening, vendor booths, children’s games, Flower show, arts and crafts and numerous other activities. In the Anna Arts Center, kids games, speakers, music, carriage rides and of course our famous Annabelle Hydrangea. The name Annabelle is a nod to the Kirkpatrick “belles” from Anna that originally discovered the wild specimen.

The Annabelle hydrangea has been a mainstay of the orna

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mental shrub world since its release in the 1960s. This showy shrub is filled with beautiful snowball-like flowers that adorn its spindly branches each summer.

The blooms begin as pretty green puffs that turn white at maturity, often lasting six to eight weeks throughout June and July, and gradually changing to a tan color to provide interest throughout fall and winter.

PAWFEST Jun 13 11:00am - 3:00pm Address: 800 S. 27th St. Mount Vernon IL 62864 Phone: +1 618-242-3151 PawFest returns to Veteran’s Park on Sunday, June 13th from 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.

Browse a variety of vendor booths with special pet products, crafts, food, games, and more. Your doggie won't want to miss this celebration of pets!

For more information contact The Mt. Vernon Convention & Visitors Bureau at tourism@mtvernon.com or (618) 242-3151. Visit our Facebook page for additional updates about the event.

MISS ILLINOIS SCHOLARSHIP PAGEANT Jun 14 to Jun 19 5:00pm - 10:00pm Address: 800 Tower Square Plaza Marion IL 62959 Phone: +1 618-997-4030 Competition week will consist of preliminary competitions for the Miss Illinois and Miss Illinois’ Outstanding Teen programs. The Miss Illinois’ Outstanding Teen Finals will take place and Miss Illinois will be crowned. In addition to these competitions, we will continue with the Miss Illinois Princess Program.

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For information on ticketing, contact the Marion Cultural and Civic Center.

The Miss Illinois Scholarship Association is a duly-accredited state preliminary scholarship association in the Miss America Organization - the world’s largest provider of scholarship and cash assistance to young women. Some events will be held at The Pavilion. The Marion Cultural and Civic Center will host preliminaries, Outstanding Teen pageant, and overall finals.

ASA PRO/AM ARCHERY TOURNAMENT Jun 24 to Jun 27 Address: 5729 U.S. Highway 45 Metropolis IL 62960 Phone: +1 770-795-0232 Archery Shooters Association's Illinois Championship 3-D Archery Tournament for men, women and Children. Archers from all over North America visit Metropolis for one week each summer to compete for cash and prizes and the title of Illinois Champion, and National Champion.

METROPOLIS SUPER COMIC CON Jul 30 to Aug 01 Address: 715 Market Street Metropolis, Metropolis IL 62995 Phone: +1 270-210-1868 Metropolis Super Con features a record number of vendors for the free admission event held at 715 Market Street to coincide with the annual Superman Celebration.

There will also be plenty of vintage and newer Superman collectibles. Other vendors include one specializing in celebrity signed photos, one who sells vintage Star Wars collectibles, another producing movie props, and one with homemade horror and monster-themed dolls and action figures. The Metropolis Super Con, located caddy-corner from

the Lois Lane statue, is open on Friday from 10 am to 6 pm, Saturday 9 am to 7 pm, and Sunday 10 am to 2 pm.

SUPERMAN CELEBRATION Jul 30 to Aug 01 Address: 607 Market St Metropolis IL 62960 Phone: +1 800-248-4373 Metropolis, Home of Superman, holds a celebration the second weekend in June each year celebrating the 'Man of Steel.'

A Superman Drama kicks off the weekend of contests, music, food and fun, as well as a comic book & artist show, fan films, street vendors, a carnival, costume contest and a Super Car Show. Celebrating all things Super! The schedule is filled with events for young and old.

COBDEN PEACH FESTIVAL Aug 06 to Aug 07 4:00pm - 10:00pm Address: 117 S Appleknocker Dr Cobden IL 62920 Phone: +1 800-248-4373 Celebrate the local peach harvest, sponsored by the Cobden Lions Club. Join us for fresh peaches from local orchards, carnival rides and games, crowning of ‘Miss Peach Queen’, homemade food and peach cobbler & pie with a 5K run/walk and parade on Saturday. Free admission.

MT. VERNON HOMEBREWERS FESTIVAL Aug 07 12:00pm - 5:00pm Address: 9th St. Mount Vernon IL 62864 Phone: +1 618-242-3151 21+ Event - Mt. Vernon's hottest new festival is back for for 2021! Stay tuned Mt. Vernon Homebrewers Festival's Facebook page for announcements and updates. This event sold out quickly, so

boat rentals cabin rentals SINGLE & DOUBLE CHALETS

8 & 10 PERSON PONTOONS

The Resort offers quality, comfortable pontoons that you can reserve. Availability on weekends and holidays can be limited, so be sure to schedule your boat in advance!

NO LICENSE REQUIRED!

If you’re a novice boater we’ll provide instruction and maps to help you navigate the Lake of Egypt waterway.

The Resort offers both single and double chalet models to accommodate your whole family. Chalets include a fully furnished kitchen, bathroom, living area, wood deck with grill and boat dock.

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1 - 6 Guests

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Full Size Bedroom

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2 Loft Bedrooms

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1 Bathroom

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A/C Unit

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Dogs Allowed

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Free WIFI

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Towels & Linens

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Oven & Stove Top

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Microwave

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Refrigerator

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Deck with Grill

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Boat Dock

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Cable TV

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Cookware

BOOK ONLINE!

Visit egyptianhillsresort.com to book your boat rental today!

Boat Rentals starting at just $250 for 8 Hours

RESERVE YOUR CABIN NOW!

Visit egyptianhillsresort.com to take a virtual tour of our cabins, view availability or make your reservation.

THE ULTIMATE OUTDOOR FAMILY GETAWAY

BOAT WRAPPING & STORAGE AVAILABLE BEST VALUE • NO HASSLE

(618) 751-4556 • EGYPTIANHILLSRESORT.COM

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UPCOMING EVENTS

you won't want to miss your opportunity!

The Mt. Vernon Homebrewers festival showcases the art of homebrewed beer, produced by local homebrewers! For one great price, you get access to the festival, a commemorative tasting glass and a huge variety of beer samples. The festival will have food available and live music all day!

CRAB ORCHARD KENNEL CLUB AKC DOG SHOW Aug 07 to Aug 08 8:00am - 5:00pm From $5.00 Address: 1602 Sioux Drive Marion IL 62959 Phone: +1 618-993-2657 This Annual AKC Dog Show boasts many additional amenities. Sign up to bring your dog to the hearing clinic or get their nails trimmed while you wait.

Over 100 breeds will try to make it to the Best In Show ring. There will also be vendors of dog treats, toys, beds, blankets and more. Since 1958, the Crab Orchard Kennel Club has been dedicated to the sport of purebred dogs. Our mission is to advance, promote and protect dogs of all breeds and to educate the fancy and the general public in responsible dog ownership. We encourage good sportsmanship at all dog events as rec-

ognized by the American Kennel Club.

Phone: +1 618-559-9235

MIDSUMMER PICNIC PAIRINGS, A WINE & FOOD PAIRING EVENT Aug 07 to Aug 08 10:00am - 6:00pm Address: 2865 Hickory Ridge Road Pomona IL 62975 Phone: +1 618-218-4402

Popcorn Day celebration is the second weekend in September every year.

During this weekend we have live entertainment, vendors, amusement rides, games, free popcorn, and the big parade on Saturday at 1:00 pm.

With summer in full force, a relaxing outdoor picnic is just what the doctor ordered. Grab a few friends and enjoy fresh, local foods of the season with award-winning reds, whites and rose's from your favorite wineries. How it Works: Pre-purchase your ticket online and select your starting point. The first winery that you visit will give you a souvenir wine glass and your tasting ticket. Bring your ticket to each location along the trail to enjoy your pairings.

Leave your completed/stamped tasting ticket at the last winery visited to be entered for a chance to win a great prize from one of our associate members. We invite you to join us for a progressive tasting along the trail and enhance your appreciation and enjoyment of our wines paired with delicious samples.

POPCORN DAYS Sep 10 to Sep 11 Address: 109 S Kimbro St Ridgway IL 62979

Ridgway is also home to the unique family owned business, Dinger Bats.

Here, the first wooden bat company in Illinois crafts wooden baseball bats for players at every stage of the game from little league to the Major League.

MURPHYSBORO APPLE FESTIVAL Sep 15 to Sep 18 Address: 110 S 14th St Murphysboro IL 62966 Phone: +1 618-684-3200 Celebrating the area apple harvest.

Events include a downtown street carnival with rides and concessions, live nightly entertainment on the Appletime Stage, an arts & crafts fair, two parades, a high school marching band competition, car/truck/motorcycle show, queen scholarship pageant, walk/run race, and much more. n Due to COVID-19 some events may be canceled or have restrictions. Please contact the venue for more information.

Tracy Wilson Shane Bennett Eric Ashby Co-Owners / Designers

618.942.2000 Follow us on Facebook

3108 South Park Avenue, Herrin, IL

fax: 618.942.2022 • email: cabinets@asakitchens.com 78

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Piano Tuning & Sales

618.942.5115

baldwinofherrin.com

DON'T IMAGINE AN OLD MAN IN A BLUE SPEEDO JUMPING IN THE LAKE IF YOU READ IT, YOU IMAGINE IT!

LET US HELP YOU IMAGINE YOUR LIFE AT LAKE OF EGYPT MyFSB.com

(618)997-2378

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