IVL-06-29-15

Living Illinois Valley

Summer 2015

Hook ...

Line ... and Sinker See our story on Page 4.

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Illinois Valley Living

Celebrating summer in the Illinois Valley

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he sizzle of summer is upon us, and if you’re like this old girl, visions of summer days gone by still dance in my head.

From catching fireflies in mayonnaise jars, to spontaneous games of kickball and baseball in the barnyard, to hot and sultry nights sitting quietly on the front porch with family who only spoke in hushed tones — seemingly afraid to disturb the night and the crickets’ serenade, summer conjures up warm memories that refuse to leave my heart. Back then they were as simple as a box fan whirling in the living room window and an orange Popsicle to beat the daytime heat. Sometimes, I long for those days.

Today, summer is filled with a myriad of activities, obligations and other structured events that tend to take the spontaneity out of the season, but I think we need to create some of those lazy days of summer for ourselves, our friends and our families.

The Illinois Valley is filled with a host of festivals, events, fun-filled activities and more ... clearly a perfect way to celebrate the season of summer. I hope you’ll make a conscious effort to attend many of these events. Many people put a lot of energy, time and resources into making them happen, and they are paid only by seeing the smiles on the faces of those who attend.

Like the many things which there are to do in the Illinois Valley, this edition of Illinois Valley Living magazine is just as diverse. Our staff has filled it with a variety of stories, photos and ads about your friends, neighbors, businesses.

We hope you’ll sit a spell on your deck or patio, prepare a cold drink and take a look at our magazine while you enjoy the summer season. We think we’re going to like what you see, and we’ll be thrilled to be a part of your summer.

Again, we hope you have a great summer. Make some memories. And remember ... you are important to me and Illinois Valley Living magazine.

Warm regards, Terri Simon, editor

Living Illinois Valley

PUBLISHER Sam R Fisher EDITOR Terri Simon AD DIRECTOR Jennifer Baratta PAGE DESIGN Sarah Denton PUBLISHED BY The Bureau County Republican 800 Ace Road Princeton, Illinois 61356 (815) 875-4461 MAIN COVER PHOTO Terri Simon

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Hook, line and sinker ...

CAJUN BAIT AND TACKLE IS A GREAT CATCH Story by Paul Higgerson Photos by Terri Simon

“I

was raised as a local boy, hunting and fishing with my dad.”

Buster Culjan, owner of Cajun Bait & Tackle, was literally born to be in this business. Born and raised around Utica, Culjan lived off the land with his father.

After a few detours working at the railroad, Caterpillar, and some other companies, Culjan found his calling helping others fish and hunt. In fact, he had already been doing that for quite some time.

In 1978, Culjan started a fishing guide business that morphed into a small bait and tackle shop on the corner of Illinois Routes 6 and 178, where he stayed for 17 years. Guiding, according to Culjan, is “putting people in my boat, taking them out fishing on the Illinois River, and in some cases, teaching them how to fish.”

Culjan ran that shop while working full time elsewhere. Eventually, he decided to return to his roots and work for himself full time. When the piece of land his shop currently resides on came up for sale, he jumped at the chance to expand his business.

Take one step into Cajun Bait & Tackle and your eyes are opened to what the Illinois River and its surrounding area has to offer. The countless lures, rods and other fishing gear are a sportsman’s paradise.

The supply of tackle in this shop, as Culjan puts it, “is more than anyone in the area.”

He said customers are continually amazed at the selection. Whether you are fishing ponds or rivers, chances are Culjan has it.

It’s easy to lose track of time examining all the colorful lures and countless hooks.

If one tries hard enough, it isn’t difficult to envision yourself in a boat, drifting down the Illinois River, piercing the early morning fog on the hunt for that record-setting catch. Pictures of game and fish dot the walls and provide a glimpse of Buster’s contributions to these memories.

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you have come to the right place. And if you don’t know what you need, well, that is fine too. At any given moment you will find Culjan on the phone (which rings constantly) providing locations the fish are biting, the conditions of the river, and any other information customers will need for a successful, enjoyable fishing trip.

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Edward Culjan displays a fishing rod at his father’s Utica store, Cajun Bait & Tackle, located on Clark Street just before crossing the Illinois River. Owner Buster Culjan sells a variety of fishing and hunting gear for fishermen of all experience levels.

Illinois Valley Living

A sign inside the Cajun Bait and Tackle shop in Utica reminds those who visit that the store also offers a fishing guide service and instruction. Owner Buster Culjan prides himself on his knowledge of the best fishing spots, and he’s always eager to share what he knows with customers to help them land the big one. he does just about everything else. While he makes no guarantees, he will do most anything to ensure a great experience for his customers.

A lot has changed since Culjan first began guiding folks on the Illinois River.

Walleye and sauger showed up in the river around the time he opened his shop. Their

That perfect fishing experience starts with knowledge. That is what makes Cajun’s different than your ordinary bait shop.

Culjan has knowledge. That wealth of knowledge is available to all who enter his shop. Buster will do whatever he can to help his customers catch fish.

“I can’t catch ‘em for them,” he said, but

arrival was covered by the media, and people began flocking to the area. Fishing clubs have come into existence as well.

These clubs “do everything to make the fishing better as far as stocking programs and working with the state,” according to Culjan.

Big tournaments have followed and help

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bring attention to the area. Whether they come for the walleye, sauger, tournaments or the beauty of the area, people from Chicago, the suburbs and even Indiana visit the area every day of the week. Even the arrival of Asian carp hasn’t slowed things down. While they cause some trouble, the fishing is still good.

The fish have gradually brought eagles to the area as well. Years ago, there were next to no eagles; now they are here nearly year round. If you pay close attention, one might even see pelicans. They have been

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known to stop by while migrating in the months of March and September for fish in the Illinois River. While many things have changed throughout the years, Culjan and the services he provides remain.

Besides the variety of bait and tackle, Culjan bow-repair shop is something many folks don’t know about. A wide variety of bows, as well as a bow repair service (minus cross-bows) is available. He has been hired to help customers “learn the river.” He’ll even make you a map to help locate that spot where the fish are biting.

Whether you are a lifelong fisherman, a beginner or taking your child or grandchild fishing for the first time, rest assured you can find what you need at Cajun Bait & Tackle. It isn’t unusual at all for generational customers to stop by reminiscing about visiting as a youngster while they stock up for today’s trip. Culjan is a resource, just like the fish and wildlife he knows so well.

Cajun Bait & Tackle is open for business at 700 S. Clark Street in Utica. Business hours are 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends;

Illinois Valley Living

Can’t decide which fishing equipment you might need on your next fishing expedition?

Well ... look no further. Buster Culjan of Cajun Bait and Tackle gives anglers a variety of lures, bobbers and more. And besides products, Culjan is happy to talk about the best places to fish in the Illinois Valley.

6 a.m. to 6 p.m. during weekdays in the summer; and from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. during holiday weeks, depending on the weather.

For more information or to learn where the fish are biting today, call Culjan at 815667-4222.

Illinois Valley Living

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When it comes to teapots and teacups, there’s no shortage of either at Hoffman’s Patterns of the Past on Princeton’s South Main Street.

The popularity of tea has resurfaced recently. While many just enjoy a cup of the hot and steamy beverage, the medicinal effects of tea are encouraging many to sip a cup or two.

It’s everybody’s cup of tea

THE THIRST FOR TEA CONTINUES TO SURGE Story and photos by Shannon Serpette

T

ea has been consumed for thousands of years, and it seems it has never been more popular in modern society than it is today.

Shea Anson, manager at Austin Parker Naturals in Princeton, only began drinking tea five years ago when she was introduced to it through her job. These days, she’s hooked on it.

“I like black tea because it has more caffeine in it,” she said. “You definitely have more flavor options than you do with coffee.”

Anson has seen a definite increase in the popularity of tea during her years at the store. She credits multiple reasons for the recent explosion in tea popularity.

Health is a big reason people are drinking more tea, she said. In the medical world, tea has been deemed good for the heart, lungs, cholesterol levels, and it has even been examined for its potential to ward off dementia. In addition, experts believe it may lower the risk of certain types of cancer and help lower blood sugar levels.

“We have teas for everything from colds to menopause,” Anson said.

For consumers who like variety, there

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Jyl Morse, owner of Hoffman’s Patterns of the Past in Princeton, shows one of many decorative teapots she sells in her store. Teapots come in nearly as many varieties as those who collect and use them. are many different types of tea, including white, green, black, oolong and herbal.

Herbal teas, such as ginger, peppermint, chamomile, cranberry and more, are also

Illinois Valley Living

gaining in popularity.

Even the soothing ritual of making Find another purpose a cup of steamy tea 1. Give your tired eyes a lift: can come with its own Soak used tea bags in ice cold health benefits. Anson water. Put them on your eyelids said brewing tea and for a few minutes to get rid of sitting down to enjoy it is puffiness. a good way to relax and 2. Remove warts: Place a unwind from the stress of the day. used green tea bag or a cotton “It’s so nice for a break,” ball soaked in green tea on the she said. wart, cover it with a large banTo make tea breaks extra dage and leave it on overnight. special, some people preIt will take several nights before fer to serve their tea in an the wart falls off. eye-catching tea set or cup.

3. Get relief from canker sore Finding a special tea cup pain: Place a used tea bag on or set is easy to do at Hoffthe canker sore and let its man’s Patterns of the Past. magic work.

Located in Princeton, the shop 4. Soothe insect bites: carries more than one million Wet tea bags will calm current and discontinued patthe inflammation terns.

“We have teapots that go back to the 1800s,” Jyl Morse of Hoffman’s said.

The large selection at Hoffman’s can be overwhelming, but the staff there will

always help a customer find the ideal product for their needs. for that used tea bag One man recently from bug bites. came in looking for the 5. Compost: Used tea bags perfect teacup for his are great for composting. wife, who was a fan 6: Sunburns: Outside too long of the television show, this summer? Give your skin “Downton Abbey.” They some TLC by rubbing a tea bag found her a cup they thought she would love. over the sunburn and letting it “It was one from air dry.

England,” Morse said. A 7. Fight grease in the kitchen: short while later the woman Rub your used tea bag on your let Morse know how much stove to clean it. Have a hard-toshe loved the cup. clean greasy dish? Fill the dish “She had a cup of tea in it with hot water, drop in a tea when she watched ‘Downton bag and let it sit overnight.

Abbey,’” Morse said.

8. Tenderize meat: Brew Morse, who said she is drinka cup or two of strong ing more tea than ever before, black tea. Allow it to cool has also noticed her customers’ and use it to marinate recent thirst for tea products. meat.

“We have a lot of people who have tea parties,” she said.

Tea is good for more than drinking

Not sure which tea to buy? The shelves at Austin Parker Naturals in Princeton are filled with a variety of flavors. Just ask which one will fit your needs.

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of WOMEN WOM Illinois Valley Living’s

distinction

Honoring the women of the Illinois Valley — the Women of Distinction Awards focus on those ladies who make a difference in the lives of area citizens.

The Illinois Valley Living Women of Distinction Award is given to women who have made a difference in the Illinois Valley and who are representative role models as leaders in their fields and communities. Illinois Valley Living is excited to offer this annual event to honor those women who make a difference in the lives of others.

What woman do you know who has gone that extra mile to benefit others? Who has taken a stand; made a difference; and/or been a role model for others? We want to hear about these wonderful women from you.

Nominations are currently being accepted for the annual Women of Distinction Award. Honorees will be chosen by a selection committee of the 2014 Women of Distinction Award winners.

In the fall of this year, a welcome reception will precede a luncheon and awards ceremony, where multiple Women of Distinction Award winners will be honored and given the opportunity to share their stories.

To nominate a Woman of Distinction, go to www.illinoisvalleyliving.com and click on the ad on the right side of the page to complete the nomination form. You can also fill out the nomination form on the adjoining page and mail it to Women of Distinction, c/o Bureau County Republican, Attention: Editor Terri Simon, P.O. Box 340, Princeton, IL 61356.

Nominations will be accepted until 5 p.m., August 1, 2015.

For questions or more information, contact Simon at 815-875-4461, ext. 6330.

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Illinois Valley Living

Women of Distinction identifies women who have made a difference in the Illinois Valley and who are representative role models as leaders in their fields and community. Honorees will be profiled in the Illinois Valley Living Magazine’s September issue and recognized at an awards luncheon on October 15th.

Please fill out this form completely (use additional paper if necessary) and return by August 1, 2015. Additional forms can be downloaded by visiting www.illinoisvalleyliving.com.

Today’s date:__________________________________________ Education:

A. Nominee’s Personal Information Name ___________________________________________________________ Organization/company/corp. _______________________________________ Title_____________________________________________________________ Phone ___________________________________________________________ City of residence__________________________________________________ E-mail __________________________________________________________ Hometown (childhood) ____________________________________________ Date of birth _____________________________________________________

______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ Family: ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ Please include bio/résumé/vita

B. Achievements In the space below, please describe the nominee’s greatest personal, professional or job-related achievement. Honors or awards can be included as well as examples of a challenging problem solved, a major project completed or a product produced. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ C. Nominator *Name _____________________________________________________ Title _______________________________________________________ Organization _______________________________________________ Phone ______________________________________________________ *Email: _____________________________________________________ *Must include to be informed if your nominee has been selected

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A cemetery full of life MT. PALATINE CEMETERY’S DUAL RESTORATION PROJECTS Story and photos by Dave Cook

A

historical cemetery isn’t the first thing to come to mind when thinking of something full of life, but that’s exactly what Mt. Palatine Cemetery is. It’s full of not only historical life, but prairie life as well.

Sitting on top of a rise in what was once a sprawling prairie, the cemetery is moving toward becoming part of one of the last remnants of Illinois prairie wilderness.

For the last several years it has been under the protection of the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission, which is working with the local Mt. Palatine Cemetery Board to restore the 1.5 acre nature preserve/historical cemetery. It is the only one of its kind in the area and one of only a few within the state.

The board also has a contract with John Heider of Monticello’s R.I.P. Ltd. (Restoration In Progress), to locate and restore lost grave markers.

“We have more burials than markers, so we know there are more waiting to be discovered,” said Barbara Kessler, member of the cemetery board.

There are currently 25 new discoveries, marked by red flags, waiting to be restored to their proper places among the tall prairie grasses and visible wildlife.

When cleaning the stones, Heider said while he does have a special cleaner designed for marble, it’s water and sunlight which work best. “We work with Mother Nature and she does a wonderful

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Barb Kessler, of the Mt. Palatine Cemetery Board, walks along the only path which is allowed to be cut into the nature preserve/historical cemetery to ease access. Footing can be uncertain because of uneven ground and holes which may or may not be entrances to animal dens. job,” said Heider.

“It’s hard, physical work, but it’s a labor of love for everyone involved,” said Kessler.

The cemetery board has also received donations through the Putnam County Historical Society in order to help with the restoration of the markers. Worn engraving on the stones is not allowed to

be changed in any way, as it is “changing history,” said Heider.

The nature restoration is an ongoing project as well and one with its own set of strict guidelines. The first stage was when the state cleared all the saplings from the area. They also occasionally do controlled burns, which Heider said simulates a lightning caused prairie fire, and it’s the

Illinois Valley Living

only authorized way to clear the preserve.

There are additionally areas of peonies and irises planted long ago by families, which will eventually be removed from the preserve. While they are beautiful flowers, they are easily recognized as not belonging to the natural landscape. The state has also conducted research on the prairie wildlife residing there since its designation as a nature preserve, and Kessler says there are birds there she rarely sees anywhere else.

“This cemetery is full of the history of Putnam County,” Kessler said, as she told the story of an elderly resident who has recently passed away. “He remembered attending his sister’s funeral here long ago when he was a young boy, but couldn’t remember where she was buried, and the marker was missing.”

Her marker was discovered and restored, and he was able to visit his sister’s grave before he died several months later.

Work continues sporadically as it can only be accomplished when Heider is present, and he’s often busy traveling to and working on his various restoration projects, Kessler said. Volunteers are almost impossible to get, and despite the interesting combination of the natural and historical aspects, no community groups are currently involved. Kessler worries without community involvement a wonderful source of local history will be

Mt. Palatine Cemetery is a history lesson waiting to be absorbed. Filled with much of Putnam County’s past, it is also known for its natural landscape. The state of Illinois has conducted research on the prairie wildlife residing there, since it was designated a nature preserve. forever lost.

“The longer things remain hidden, the greater the damage they suffer,” she said.

“And the information contained with it will no longer be available for future generations.”

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Anyone interested in volunteering in any way should contact Heider at 217898-2422 or by e-mail at jheider@mchsi. com. Locally, potential volunteers should contact Kessler at 815-326-0202 or kesslerskorner@yahoo.com.

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Behind the Scenes

WITH BUREAU COUNTY METRO CENTER RECREATION/ AQUATIC ASSISTANT BAILEY BEABER

Town of residence: Princeton.

Where did you grow up: Princeton.

Occupation: Recreation/aquatic assistant at the Bureau County Metro Center Family: Parents, Rod and Rhonda Beaber; and sister and brother-in-law, Luke and Paige Heaton.

What is the last book you read: The third book of the “Divergent Series: Insurgent.”

What is your favorite TV show: “Chicago P.D.” What is the last movie you saw: “Furious 7.”

If you were stranded on a deserted island and could only take one thing with you, what would it be: A new Jeep Wrangler, so that I can at least have fun while being stranded. Haha!

When you were a small girl, what did you want to be when you grew up: Scientist.

What is the most enjoyable aspect of your job at the Bureau County Metro Center: There are many things I enjoy about working at the Met, but one of my favorites would have to be goofing around and having a positive influence on the part-time staff. I like showing them how to have fun at work while still doing their job to the best of their ability.

What do you consider the biggest challenges related to your position: Balancing the schedules of some of the teen workers!

What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen at the Metro Center throughout the years: Maggie Bouslog, who worked here, went to New York and came back because she missed working with me (ha), and we have a great British employee, Eleni Leigh! The Metro Center just brings people from around the world together!

What are some goals you have at the Bureau County Metro Center: I would love to at some point be solely responsible for the aquatics department.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement so far: The most rewarding feeling is when I teach a child how to swim on their own. There is this huge sense of accomplishment!

What advice would you give to parents looking for fun summer activities for

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Bailey Beaber works with a swimming lesson student at the Bureau County Metro Center in Princeton. Beaber said one of the best lessons she’s learned as an employee of the facility is to always have a positive attitude, accept challenges, be patient and have a good work ethic. their kids and for themselves: I would tell them to sign their children up for some of our many different programs we offer here at the Metro Center, whether it be our tennis lessons, baseball programs or our day camp even for just one or two days a week for something different, keep them active.

Or just simply come to the Alexander Park Pool!

If someone asked you to name a memorable moment, what first comes to mind: When we drove to Des Moines, Iowa, in the snow to pick up our awesome miniature Schnauzer, Pepper; she is so

awesome!

What is the best advice you can offer to others: Always be courteous and patient; you don’t know what a person has been through. People hide their feelings very well, and no one deserves to be treated rudely or with disrespect.

What three words describe you best: Patient, caring, fun-spirited.

What lessons have you learned at the Bureau County Metro Center: Always have a positive attitude; be willing to take on challenges; have a good work ethic; and be patient.

Illinois Valley Living

2015: A special anniversary year CHURCHES, SCHOOL DISTRICTS AND BUSINESSES MARK ANNIVERSARIES

I

t’s 2015 and a special anniversary year for some school districts, churches and businesses in the Illinois Valley area.

Here’s a list of anniversaries being celebrated around the Illinois Valley. These entities were submitted to Illinois Valley Living, however, there certainly could be more anniversaries in the area.

St. Louis Catholic Parish in Princeton is marking its 150th year in existence. The first church was built by men of the parish near the fairgrounds. It was later moved to land located at the intersection of Main Street and Central Avenue. The first celebration of Mass at the current church, located on Park Avenue West, happened on Christmas Eve in 1950, with the church dedicated in 1951. St. Louis School opened its doors in 1964 and was blessed in 1965.

St. Bede Abbey and Academy, founded in 1890, is marking its 125th year. The school was dedicated in 1961 and is a private, four-year, Catholic college-preparatory high school located in eastern Bureau County with currently about 300 students. The 200-acre campus includes the five-level brick school building, an attached monastery, church, football field, baseball field, basketball stadium, Saint Bede Abbey press building, boarding houses and an apple orchard.

Illinois Valley Living

The village of Ladd, incorporated in 1890, will mark its 125th year of existence in 2015. Ladd’s first name was Osgood, named after John Osgood, the owner of the Whitebreast Fuel Co., which first owned the coal mine located near the town. After George Ladd became involved in numerous Ladd businesses, the town’s name was changed to Laddville and later shortened to Ladd.

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LaMoille Lions Club (above) marked its 40th year of existence in 2015. It was started in 1975 and has raised thousands of dollars throughout the years for various community projects. The club also provides a facility at the edge of town in LaMoille, which has been a location option for all sorts of community events including wedding receptions, business meetings, banquets, reunions, holiday parties, fundraisers, private family gathering and more.

Carus Corporation (left) started by Dr. Edward Hegeler Carus in 1915 is marking its 100th anniversary in 2015. Carus’ current CEO Inga Carus represents the third generation of the Carus family to manage the corporation. She joined the company in 1992 as the European sales manager.

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Illinois Valley Living

The Raymond A. Sapp Memorial Library in Wyanet will mark its 100th year of existence in 2015. The library opened its doors on Dec. 4, 1915, when W.E. Sapp deeded the land to Wyanet Township for a library. An open house will be held July 11 during the Wyanet Festival.

The Putnam County School District 535 (above)is marking its 50th year of existence in 2015 after being formed in 1965 with the consolidation of Magnolia-Swaney, Hopkins Township and Hennepin school districts into one high school in Granville, seven to eight different grade schools into a grade and junior high schools in Hennepin and rural McNabb, and grade schools in Granville, Mark and Standard.

The Spring Valley Tastee Freez (left), the oldest building in franchise history, is marking its 65th year in business in 2015 at 309 E. Dakota St. Ann M. Abraham, the current owner, is the business’ third owner. Charles and Lola Keyser, the original owners of the business, operated it for 25 years from 1950 to 1975 before selling it to Carl and Judi Adrian. The Adrians sold the business in 2013 to Abraham, who has worked there since she was 13 years old.

Illinois Valley Living

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While most people tend to shy away from those pesky bees flying around one’s head, a LaMoille man embraces their sting. Jim Hamacher was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2000. While attempting to deal with the disease with a plethora of medications, Hamacher discovered Bee Venom Therapy acupuncture treatments in 2012.

Bees are all the buzz in modern medicine THE MIRACLE OF A NATURAL CURE

Story and photos by Zita Henneberry

T

he sting of Parkinson’s Disease may never cease for Vietnam veteran Jim Hamacher, but “bee” prepared for this breakthrough.

In essence, nothing was working, and the Hamacher family was ready to try anything when they finally discovered their cure.

After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2000, Jim gradually lost both

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his easy movement and his way of life. The avid hunter and fishing fanatic could no longer enjoy the outdoor activities he once loved. Due to his taxing disease, Jim could no longer stand up straight, show expression, write and was constantly plagued

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with fatigue.

Yet today, no one would know about his symptoms or his disease. Jim is walking around, standing up straight, talking and smiling with his wife — just like anyone else.

As the typical list of Parkinson’s medications just continued to grow without any great success, said Jim’s wife, Janet, it was just too much.

“He was going downhill fast, and so we had opted not to take any more medicine,” she said.

However in September of 2012, the Hamachers’ lives took a turn as sweet as honey when the family discovered the Bee Venom Therapy (BVT) acupuncture treatment.

“We know it works,” Jim said.

After living with Parkinson’s for about 12 years, Jim was able to see improvements immediately with the BVT treatment. In only one BVT treatment, Jim was able to sign his name legibly for the first time in several years. The Hamacher’s were ready to give it a try.

Some people thought we were crazy, added Janet, but then they saw the results.

“In a two-week period of time, he (Jim’s doctor) couldn’t believe and neither could the gals how much it had changed for the better. I was able to do things, well, I could reach down and touch my toes which I couldn’t do when I first went in,” said Jim in a 2013 Veteran’s Special Programs American National Network video where he and his wife were featured to discuss the BVT success.

Two years later when Jim watched the video in his home, he teared up as he struggled to see on the screen how much the disease once cost him.

Since the couple started Jim’s treatment, life has improved by leaps and bounds. Jim has even been able to return to his favorite leisure activities of hunting and fishing, often taking hunting trips. When the two went to Florida for the winter, Jim drove the entire way.

Under the instruction of Dr. Francis Yurasek, an internationally-recognized acupuncturist, Janet began administering Jim’s treatment in September of 2012.

Above, a box of honey bees at Jim Hamacher’s home contain the medicine the doctor ordered to relieve symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease. Below, his wife, Janet Hamacher, shows the box after feeding the bees honey from her cupboard.

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“The Lord just whispered and told me.

He said, ‘Janet, the two of us can do anything together.’ And like I said, if I can give him quality of life everyday, hey, why not?”

Now, after about three years of treatment, Janet has gotten the treatment mastered. With her journal of past treatments, her book of acupuncture points and her little box of honey bees, Janet administers the BVT treatment to her husband whenever the need arises.

She said the acupuncture points used, the quantity of stings and the regularity of treatment depends on how Jim is feeling.

One treatment could involve around 12 to 16 stings. When Jim feels the need or lack of energy arising, the two prepare the bees and administer the stings.

It usually ends up being about once a week, said Jim, adding, yes it hurts, but it’s worth it.

“You can’t be scared of them,” said Janet as she collected a honey bee from the box, preparing to sting her husband. After checking her book of acupuncture points, Janet marked a spot on Jim’s knee and allowed the bee to sting her husband. She explained the various acupuncture points are beneficial to specific areas of the body.

This particular spot she chose corresponded with the small intestine.

“It is (painful), but he (Jim) doesn’t say anything. He just gets himself psyched up because he knows, come the next day, he’s going to feel wonderful. And why the

20

Jim and Janet Hamacher show the salve Jim uses after he allows a bee to sting him. The salve is kept in the freezer to help with the discomfort of the bee stings. venom is so powerful, I don’t know,” said Janet.

Janet and Jim are already guiding others along the same path as a support team for

couples new to the treatment.

People may not want to get stung, the two agreed, but what’s a few stings compared to the alternative?

Illinois Valley Living

‘It’s Hammer time’ HAMMER ENERGY FITNESS: ‘DON’T CALL IT YOGA’

Story and photos by Ken Schroeder

D

on’t call it yoga.

It is, but it isn’t.

Hammer Energy Fitness, LLC in LaSalle is the home of H2E Yoga, a style that combines the standard flexibility training of yoga with strengthening techniques and is more of a cardio workout.

Matt Hancock is the creator of H2E yoga and owner of Hammer Energy Fitness.

Hancock started out as one of a handful of certified instructors of DDP Yoga, a similar style of fitness exercise created by former professional wrestler Diamond Dallas Page. Since then, Hancock has changed the workout to more reflect his style.

H2E starts with a basic yoga approach but also includes Pilates, strength training and elements of mixed martial arts training to create a unique workout experience.

Not only does the style offer flexibility and improved physical condition, but many of Hammer’s students have dropped large amounts of weight on the system, shedding as much as 100 pounds.

So far, Hammer Energy Fitness has been growing rather rapidly.

“I started the business back at the beginning of last year in January. I quit my full-time job as of that March,” Hancock

Matt Hancock, creator of H2E yoga and owner of Hammer Energy Fitness works with a basic yoga approach coupled with Pilates, strength training and elements of martial arts to create unique workouts for himself and his customers.

Illinois Valley Living

21

Hammer Energy offers a variety of workouts for people of all fitness levels. A typical class lasts about 45 minutes. About one-third of the students are beginners. The building is currently being renovated into a full fitness center. said. “I called it ‘Hammer Energy’ because ‘Hammer’ was my nickname and ‘Energy’ because I’m kind of crazy.”

“Energy” is also a great descriptor for Hancock himself. He teaches between three and five classes daily Monday through Saturday with a typical class lasting 45 minutes. About one-third of those classes are for beginners. In the meantime, he’s renovating the building he’s in into a full fitness center.

“My wife’s a physical therapist, and I also have a massage therapist and a chiropractor working out of the videotaping and conference room. We’ll also be using the room for small classes and one-onone training, and I want to do local broadcasts and taping too,” Hancock said. “Next to that, I’m putting in a jujitsu studio.”

Class Schedule M 9:20am, 4:20pm, 5:30pm* T 5:30am*, 4:20pm, 5:30pm W 9:20am, 4:20pm, 5:30pm* TH 5:30am*, 4:20pm, 5:30pm F 9:20am | SA 8:45am * Express 30 minute classes

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815.878.5965 22

Illinois Valley Living

Hammer Energy offers fitness classes to people of all ages — from pre-school children to senior citizens to everyone in between. The LaSalle studio, located on Sixth Street has become a popular home to those wishing to accomplish a fitness routine that fits their needs and their skill levels.

Student ages range from pre-schooler to senior citizens, and there are two skill levels of classes. New students start in the beginner class and can only be elevated

to the advanced class after Hancock is satisfied they can perform those exercises without risk.

Hammer’s Energy Fitness LLC is located

at 1055 Sixth St., LaSalle. Visit the website at http://www.hammersenergyfitness. com/ for a list of class times and special events.

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Illinois Valley Living

Illinois Valley Living

25

Not only does Vic Gensini enjoy chasing a good storm, he doesn’t do too bad looking at that same storm through the lens of a camera.

Gensini shared these storm images. He is a meteorology instructor at the College of DuPage and Putnam County native at heart. His interest in storms began with reading many weather books and ultimately with the April 2004 tornado that struck Granville and Utica.

Storms are a brewin’

GENSINI CHASING MORE THAN HIS DREAMS Story by Ken Schroeder Photos contributed

S

torms are something most people try to steer clear of, but then again, Vittorio (Vic) Gensini is not most people.

As a meteorology instructor at the College of DuPage, his field trips involve chasing storms throughout the country, gathering information and teaching the next generation of weather prognosticators.

“Two significant things led me to meteorology as a career,” Putnam County native Gensini said. “I read a lot of weather books when I was young. I was very fascinated by weather, but I didn’t really want to pursue it as a career because I was afraid of all the math and science behind it.

“Then in high school, we had the April 20, 2004, Granville/Utica tornado hit, and after that, my interest really peaked,” Gensini said.

26

Illinois Valley Living

“It was the first tornado damage I’d ever seen firsthand, and the first time I saw how it affected people’s lives.

Then I started asking questions. ‘Why did this happen? What were the conditions that made this happen?’ Just an endless line of questions that led me to meteoVittorio Gensini rology.”

Gensini threw himself into studying storms, finding out how they formed and what they could do by poring through books and Internet articles.

“Meteorology is kind of unique because there aren’t many high schools that teach earth sciences like meteorology,” he said.

Gensini earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, then received his Ph.D. at the University of Georgia in Athens, Ga. The time it took to earn all three degrees was nine years, which he started immediately after high school graduation. Gensini is a full-time instructor at College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn where he was promoted recently to associate professor.

By the end of March this year, there had been no tornado warnings posted nationwide, and Gensini predicted April would make up for it.

“April was very active, in fact, it ended up above average with most of the tornadoes in Texas and Oklahoma,” he said. “We don’t expect many tornadoes in Illinois and the Midwest until the first two weeks in June.

That’s when the peak of the season is here.”

Gensini started chasing storms in 2005, and when he’s not teaching, that’s likely where he can be found, crisscrossing the country. As an amateur photographer, he documents his travels with photos of storms as he goes, many of which are posted on his blog. Gensini is cautious about his approach

to storm chasing, keeping a safe distance from the path of serious weather. At least, he usually does.

“I was in a situation where I did get hail damage to a vehicle and looking back I thought it was really silly that I got into the storm that deeply,” Gensini said. “Still, you learn from that kind of situation. You can’t get really close to that kind of storm. There are certainly other chasers that don’t have that mentality. They have to get right up next to the storm. I think the closer you get, the more you lose perspective of it.”

www.patternsofthepast.com hoffmansinfo@patternsofthepast.com Illinois Valley Living

27

Listen for the sizzle ...

GRILLING OUT TAKES THE HEAT OUT OF THE KITCHEN

By Judy Dyke

I

t’s been said if you can’t stand the heat, then get out of the kitchen! If you take that phrase Dyke literally, grilling out is a great way to keep the heat outside and your kitchen cool. I hope you enjoy some of my favorite grilling specialties. Invite the neighbors over, call friends and family ... make it special.

Cowboy Kabobs 1/2 cup spicy steak sauce 1/2 cup barbecue sauce 2 1/2 teaspoons prepared horseradish 1 1 1/2-pound beef top round steak, cut into 1/2-inch thick strips

4 medium red skin potatoes, cut into wedges 1 medium onion cut into wedges 1/3 cup red bell pepper, strips 1/3 cup green bell pepper strips 1/3 cup yellow bell pepper strips

Soak 8 10-inch wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes. In a medium bowl, combine steak sauce, barbecue sauce and horseradish. In a heavy duty ziplock bag, combine steak strips and vegetables. Pour in steak sauce, mixture and seal. Let steak and vegetables marinate in a cooler filled with ice for 1 hour. Preheat grill. Alternately slide steak strips (like an accordion), potato wedges, onion wedges and bell pepper strips onto skewers. Place skewers on hot grate and grill for 6 to 10 minutes until steak reaches desired doneness.

Stuffed Frankfurters 8 frankfurters 8 slices bacon

1 6-ounce package stuffing mix, prepared

Preheat grill or place grilling grate over campfire. Using a knife, cut a lengthwise slit in each frankfurter. Stuff frankfurter with prepared stuffing mix. Wrap a slice of bacon around each frankfurter. Holding the stuffing inside. Secure with toothpicks. Place frankfurters over grill and cook until bacon reaches desired crispness and frankfurters reach desired doneness. Remove toothpicks before serving.

Beer Can Chicken 1 4- to 5-pound whole chicken 3/4 teaspoon pepper 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt 3/4 teaspoon paprika 3/4 teaspoon sugar 1 12-ounce can beer Preheat grill. Remove and discard fat from inside the body cavity of the chicken. Remove giblets and rinse chicken inside and out under cool running water. Drain chicken and pat dry with paper towels.

In a small bowl, combine salt, sugar, pepper and paprika. Mix well.

Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the rub inside the body cavity and spread the remaining rub over the outside of the chicken. Open beer can and using a can opener, poke 6 to 7 holes in the top of the can. Pour out 1 inch of beer from the can. Holding the chicken upright insert beer can into body cavity of chicken. Cover tips of the chicken legs with aluminum foil and stand chicken up on beer can over center of hot grate.

Spread out legs of chicken to form a tripod. Cook, chicken until meat is tender, about 2 hours and internal temperature of chicken reaches 160 degrees. Carefully remove can from chicken, being careful not to spill the hot beer. Carve chicken from the bone to serve.

28

The All-American Burger 1 1/2 pounds ground beef, lean 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley 2 teaspoons onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper 4 hamburger buns

Preheat grill. In a medium bowl combine ground beef Worcestershire sauce, chopped parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper.

Mix lightly but thoroughly. Shape mixture into 4 burgers each about 1/2-inch thick. Place burgers on hot grate. Cook burgers over grill for 8 to 10 minutes, turning once, until thoroughly cooked to desired doneness. Serve on buns with desired condiments, ketchup, mustard, onion relish, tomatoes and whatever else you choose.

Cheese-Stuffed Brats 5 fully cooked bratwurst 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese 2 green onions, thinly sliced

5 slices bacon 5 hot dog buns or French style rolls, halved lengthwise

Preheat grill. Using a knife cut a lengthwise slit about 1/2-inch deep in each bratwurst. Stuff each brat with some of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and green onion slices. Wrap one slice of bacon around each brat holding the cheese inside. Secure with toothpicks. Place brat, cheese side up, over grill and cook until bacon reaches desired crispness and brat reaches desired doneness. Place brats on bun and garnish with ketchup, mustard, relish and onion.

Illinois Valley Living

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups

Basic Potatoes in Foil

4 miniature graham cracker pie 12 miniature Reese’s peanut butter cups crusts 1 package miniature marshmallow 1 ripe banana Preheat grill. Place miniature graham cracker pie crusts in 9-by-13inch metal baking pan. Slice banana into pieces. Layer 3 to 4 banana slices in each pie crust. Place 3 miniature peanut butter cups over top of banana in each crust. Sprinkle several marshmallows over peanut butter cups in each pie crust. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil.

Place pan over grill for 10 to 15 minutes until marshmallows and peanut butter cups are melted.

4 large potatoes Garlic powder 2 to 3 medium onions 4 tablespoons margarine, cut into Salt and pepper pieces Cut 2 pieces of heavy duty foil 15 inches long. Spray foil with nonstick vegetables spray. Peel and slice the potatoes. Cut onions into small pieces or slices. Place potatoes and onions on foil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and garlic powder to taste. Arrange pieces of margarine over vegetables. Wrap foil around vegetables to seal. Place foil pack on the grill over direct heat. Close lid and cook for 15 to 25 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Turn pack over several times during cooking. I like to add sliced carrots and a can of whole kernel corn, drained. This makes a complete vegetable serving.

Herbed New Potatoes 1/3 cup olive oil 2 pounds new potatoes 1 medium yellow onion or sweet onion

1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper Pinch of cayenne pepper

Cut 8 10-inch pieces of heavy duty foil. Brush each piece with olive oil. Wash and slice the potatoes about 1/4-inch thick. Place an equal portion of sliced potatoes on each piece of foil. Slice the onion into rings about 1/4-inch thick. Separate the rings and place an equal portion on top of the potatoes in each pack. Sprinkle vegetables with rosemary, salt, pepper and cayenne pepper. Crimp foil edges enough to hold in liquids. Drizzle vegetables with remaining olive oil. Seal foil packs and place on medium-high heat. Close lid and cook for 15 to 25 minutes until potatoes are tender. Turn packets over several times while cooking.

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Oh Baby! Help is here!

ABIGAIL WOMEN’S CLINIC OFFERS SERVICES FOR EXPECTANT MOTHERS Story and photos by Zita Henneberry

A

young girl sits alone in her high school bathroom reading that little pink plus sign. The room may be silent, but in her head, she’s crying out for help. Where can she go? Who can she turn to?

The life-changing distress and isolation that one positive pregnancy result can bring may never be realized by those who have not experienced this hardship.

However, for a young girl in her teens, that positive pregnancy test means a world turned upside down.

The staff and volunteers at the Abigail Women’s Clinic in Mendota know exactly how difficult these life changes can be.

On a daily basis, the women of the clinic guide young ladies through pregnancy results and their prenatal development, and they do it free of charge. From pregnancy tests to parenting classes, the Abigail Women’s Clinic strives to help and support struggling new families.

“We don’t charge anything for our services; it’s all donor supported,” said the clinic’s executive director, Betty Pappas.

“We believe that everybody that comes through our doors should be treated with love and compassion. We don’t judge them. We love them, and we accept them where they’re at and try to share Christ with them in that way.”

Pappas, a registered nurse, said God has been guiding her and preparing her to

M.R. Holmbeck, D.V.M. B.R. Sondgeroth, D.V.M. C.M. Schelkopf, D.V.M.

Betty Pappas works on the a new portable ultrasound machine at the Abigail Women’s Clinic in Mendota. The clinic aims to educate young women and men on pregnancy and child development. head the clinic all her life. Throughout her near 50 years as a nurse, Pappas said she has gained the experiences needed to both relate to and support the many women who walk through the clinic’s doors.

“We don’t turn anybody away,” said

Pappas. “But yes, we do try to share Christ with those that come through our door because we believe as Christians that we should be examples of his love and share.”

She explained the clinic’s average clientele ranges from 17- to 35-year-old

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Illinois Valley Living

Above, the staff of the Abigail Women’s Clinic hold baby bottles used as donation jars, which help to fund the clinic. At right, a clinic volunteer looks over parenting class information. Below is a room filled with items which clinic clients can receive free of charge for their children. women. However, she added, there are always some women who are older and some who are younger. Pappas said she has worked with women as young as 13 and 14 years old.

“Of course, we are pro-life,” said Pappas. “We encourage women to either keep their babies or place them for adoption.

We have information to give them that talks about abortion, but it lets them know about all the possible complications and side effects that go along with abortion that oftentimes women are not aware of.”

Through the generous support of churches and other donors, the Abigail Women’s Clinic has offered clothing and support to new mothers for the last 18 years. The medical side of the clinic is slightly more recent, said Pappas. Since 1997, the Abigail Women’s Clinic has offered its medical services to the public.

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At left, Betty Pappas, executive director, stands with some of the certificates the Abigail Women’s Clinic has received throughout the years. At right, she shows a basket filled with many items a new mother will need after delivering her baby. These baskets are distributed to/or earned by clients of the clinic.

Today the clinic offers pregnancy and delivery classes, parenting classes, pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, nearly all the baby supplies a new mom could need and more, entirely free of charge to the women it serves.

The clinic’s Earn While you Learn program utilizes a point system to help

Our Commitment

women collect points by taking classes or participating in other productive activities. When enough points are collected, explained Pappas, the clinic will purchase that woman a brand new crib or other baby essential. These gifts come with the family-like support system and friendship unique to the Abigail Women’s Clinic and

its staff.

Everyone and anyone from every walk of life and religion is welcome in the clinic, said Pappas. While the clinic has a focus on care and classes for women, Pappas said they are developing the resources to reach out to young men as well. They are simply waiting for the right young man to

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Illinois Valley Living

Abigail Women’s Clinic Executive Director Betty Pappas looks over some of the supplies the clinic distributes to new mothers. Currently, the clinic averages about 45 to 55 services a month, which also includes those clients who return for classes and continued support.

Pappas said she would ultimately like to open clinics in other areas of the Illinois Valley. come along, said Pappas.

“We would like to be able to reach more abortion-minded clients and young women. We would like to be able to share in schools and open up the abstinence program,” said Pappas.

Currently, the clinic is averaging about 45 to 55 services a month, including the people returning for multiple classes. With continued support, Pappas is striving to share the clinic’s mission in schools and other communities.

Eventually, said Pappas, it would be great to open up a clinic in Princeton and other areas as well.

“I would like for people to know that we are here to help them, in any kind of a pregnancy situation,” Pappas said.

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Discover the way life should be.

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Want to see your name in the paper?

LOL jokes Q. How can a leopard change its spots?

A. By moving.

Q. When is it OK to lie?

A. In bed.

••• Q. What kind of robbery is not dangerous?

A. A safe robbery.

••• Q. What pen does not write?

A. A pigpen.

••• Q. Why was the baseball player arrested in the middle of the game?

A. He was caught stealing second base.

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Q. Why do birds fly south?

A. It is too far to walk.

••• Q. What happened when two geese bumped heads?

A. They got goosebumps.

Hey, kids!

My name is Logan Serpette. I am the author of Cool Kids’ Corner.

Do you have something you want to see in the newspaper or this magazine?

Email your jokes, recipes and other items to me at coolkidscorner@outlook. com. I can’t wait to read your stories and try your recipes.

When you email me, make sure you include your name, your hometown and how old you are, so you can be famous in the newspaper.

Yum yum recipes

Play dough

8 ounce package of cream 1 tablespoon honey cheese wax paper 1/2 cup non-fat dry milk Combine cream cheese, dry milk and honey in a bowl until well blended. You might have to use an electric beater. You can add a few drops of food coloring if you want. Once it is mixed together, place it on wax paper and play with it. You can eat it when you are done playing. Or you can reuse it, but it has to be stored in the refrigerator, and you should throw it away after a few days.

Jumble Mumble

Unscramble these words about fishing 1. hsif 7. tachc _____________________________ _____________________________ 2. peol 8. berbbo _____________________________ _____________________________ 3. ohok 9. wraet _____________________________ _____________________________ 4. rotut 10. ceaon _____________________________ _____________________________ 5. monals 11. aes _____________________________ _____________________________ 6. morw 12. kale _____________________________ _____________________________ Jumble Mumble answers: 1. fish; 2. pole; 3. hook; 4. trout; 5. salmon; 6. worm; 7. catch; 8. bobber; 9. water; 10. ocean; 11. sea; and 12. lake.

34

Illinois Valley Living

Good summer reads Top 10 reasons to read R.L. Stine’s ‘Deep Trouble’

Say what?

A small boy is sent to bed by his father. Ten minutes later, the boy yells for him.

“What?” the father answers.

1. It is part of the “I’m thirsty. Can you bring me a Goosebumps series. drink of water?”

You can’t go wrong “No, you had your chance before with Goosebumps. bed. Go to sleep,” the father says.

2. It takes place at Another 10 minutes passes, and the sea. boy calls for his father again.

3. It has creatures.

“I’m really thirsty. Can I have a drink of Creatures are awewater?” some.

“I said no. If you ask again, I’ll have to 4. It has surprises spank you,” the father said. and twists.

Ten minutes later the boy yells to his 5. It is the first of a father, “When you come in to spank me, new series. can you bring a drink of water?”

6. It is by R.L. Stine, ••• a great writer.

Mom: Get up, Aiden. You will be late for school.

7. It has shark facts.

Aiden: But I don’t want to go. All the teachers and students Read it, shark fans. You hate me. won’t be sorry.

Mom: You have to go.

8. It has a sneak peak Aiden: Give me one good reason why I should go. of the next book.

Mom: You are 40, and you are the principal.

9. Reading is good ••• for you.

Boy: Can I tell you something?

10. Your parents Girl: Yeah. might let you stay up Boy: I love U. late since you’d be Girl: Really? I can’t believe it! reading. What parent Boy: Yes, it’s my favorite vowel. doesn’t want a smart kid?

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Princeton resident Florian Bangert started his firetruck collection after he bought a 1915 chain-driven fire engine from a fellow in Watertown, Wis., which had been fully restored by the former owner and was in great condition. As an independent insurance man in the 1970s, he drove the truck to help advertise his business in many local parades.

A blazing collection INSURANCE MAN DOUSES THE BUSINESS FLAMES

Story and photos by Goldie Currie

A

s an independent insurance man in the ‘70s, Florian Bangert of Princeton was brainstorming a way to get his name out in the business world.

The idea had to be grand; it had to make people look twice and leave an impression for whenever they were in need of that insurance.

What better way to catch the public’s

36

eye than with a 1915 chain-driven fire engine.

In 1974, the Bangert family purchased and brought home the vintage truck, which had been owned by a man in Watertown, Wis. He had fully restored the truck, and it was in great condition, said Bangert.

The truck was driven in many local parades as a way to advertise Bangert’s business. Many may remember the Bangert family riding the truck with family

and friends in the annual Homestead Festival Parade.

Bangert, and his wife, Bonnie, have many memories of the truck —from parades, to trips around the neighborhood to having to wash the truck in the summertime and having folks stop and ask about the truck’s unique history.

While the engine model was a chaindrive, Bonnie said it was always a family joke on what just would happen if the truck broke down in the middle of a

Illinois Valley Living

At left, Florian Bangert’s 1915 fire engine he bought and drove in area parades to help advertise his insurance business. At right, Bangert holds just one of several fire engines he has collected throughout the years, many being gifts from family and friends. Bangert said his collection numbers more than 300 pieces. parade. Most likely, it would not have been an easy time trying to remove the truck from the path of the parade.

The fire truck was a part of the family for 35 years. In 2009, Bangert decided to sell it back to the city of Oshkosh, where it was originally built.

Illinois Valley Living

With the fire truck status for so many years, friends and families began collecting little fire truck trinkets and toys.

Throughout the years, the collection has grown to more than 300 fire trucks, which Bangert keeps displayed in his home.

For not being a fireman, or ever wishing to be a fireman, Bangert most likely has one of the biggest fire truck collections around.

The trinkets are a reminder of the many memories the 1915 fire engine made for the family.

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Dragons and Damsels

Story and photos by Dick Todd

I

n the morning light, the cellophane-looking wings patrol their kingdom — looking like stained-glass panels with names like Ebony Jewelwing and American Ruby Spot. Their four wings propel them through their acrobatic flight needed for survival and reproduction.

Since Dragons and Damsels need water to complete their life cycle, you will often find them close to water. The peak season to spot these beauties is June, July and August. The males, like in the bird kingdom, often have brighter colors than their female counterparts. Dragons and Damsels can be seen in many areas throughout the Illinois Valley.

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Illinois Valley Living

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Hand in the Cookie Jar? YOU’LL FIND WONDERFUL TREATS IN THIS PUTNAM COUNTY BAKERY Story and photos by Ken Schroeder

G

rocery stores without a bakery are few and far between today, and there’s been a resurgence of local bakeries of late. However, outside of a few novelty items, the fare doesn’t change much from one bakery to another.

If someone is looking for something different, look no further than Cookie Jar Country Bakery near Putnam.

Klaudia Rees, originally from Hungary, runs the bakery out of her home, and home recipes are what she uses for her tasty treats. Rees came to America about 10 years ago with her husband, a U.S. serviceman at the time. Just a few years ago, her co-workers at Zale’s convinced her it was time to enter the bakery business.

“Blame my mother and my grandmother,” she said. “My mom was baking for us everyday; no matter how tired she was, she always made us something. My grandma was also always baking, and we have a lot of family recipes. So I started taking them to work. They would always ask for more.”

Rees and her mother — whose name is Gyongyi Loczi, but goes by “Gigi” — have a schedule of events and on the wall, there

There are never a shortage of sweet treats being created at the Cookie Jar Country Bakery near Putnam. Above, owner Klaudia Rees displays a platter of sweets, and at right, Rees and her mother, Gyongyl Loczi, display a plethora of breads and other baked goods.

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Illinois Valley Living

At left, Gyongvi Loczi, works on some individual cherry pies, while her daughter, Klaudia Rees (at right) decorates a bundt cake in their Putnam County bakery. Originally from Hungary, Rees runs the bakery out of her home. Rees said she uses food to express herself, using a variety of common and secret ingredients to make her items. is a list which tells them how much baking they will do each day. On this day, the table is full of cakes, pastries, individual cherry pies and many creations they have designed themselves.

“Food to me and my mom is a way to express yourself, and we like a lot of different things, and we like to express ourselves, so they’re different,” Rees said. “People ask, ‘What’s in this?’ and I’ll tell them. ‘There’s chocolate and peanut butter and walnuts,

and that’s all I’m going to tell you.’ I don’t want to give away my secrets.”

Different may be an understatement.

Also on display are a Hungarian chimney cake, Peruvian alfajores cookies and some delightful Hungarian Heavenly Squares.

“I call them that because they taste heavenly,” Rees said.

Everything at Cookie Jar Country Bakery is homemade, hand-rolled and hand-decorated. Most of the ingredients are made

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from scratch as well. Rees takes her goodies to farmers’ markets in the area, including the one on the north end of Princeton. She also makes cakes and breads to order.

“I need at least a week of lead time,” Rees said. “I also work full time, and I go to school full time. So this is what I do in my spare time.”

Visit Cookie Jar Country Bakery at its website, www.cookiejarcountrybakery.weebly.com; or call 815-915-7683.

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Chief Senachwine

‘RETURN NOT EVIL FOR EVIL, AS THIS WOULD OFFEND THE GREAT SPIRIT AND BRING RUIN UPON US’ Story and photos by Ken Schroeder

H

is name was Sen-Noge-Wone, but it’s also been listed as Znajjewan, Sinnowchewone, Sunawchewone or Segagewan. He’s known better by the anglicized name of Senachwine, Chief of the Potawatomi Indians in Central Illinois during the early 19th Century. The presence of his name in the area underscores the lasting impression he had on Illinois history.

Like many local tribes, the Potawatomi were a very nomadic type of people.

Records show Senachwine’s presence in Tazewell County, although the area around Putnam seems to have been his home.

Unfortunately, much of what is known about Chief Senachwine and the Potawatomi is open to debate. Native American tribes relied upon oral history with stories being told from one generation to the next. No reliable written records exist, and how much of the knowledge has been diluted or exaggerated is unknown.

Born in 1744, Senachwine was his tribe’s war chief for many years, according to his family’s records. He succeeded his older brother, Gomo, to become chieftain in 1815, and he is believed to be the last of the major Potawatomi chieftains to live in the region.

In his book, “The Sauks and the Black Hawk War: With Biographical Sketches, etc.,” United States Indian Agency member Perry Armstrong wrote the name SenNoge-Wone stood for “Rock in the Water,” and meant the chief was “so much firmer than other Indians that he was a rock around which other Indians rippled like water.”

Perhaps nowhere is this more evident than during a council a year before his death. Black Hawk appealed to the Potawatomi to join his tribe and declare war on the white settlers who were moving the tribes from their lands. After hearing Black Hawk’s appeal, Senachwine told his tribe such an action would solve nothing.

“The time is near at hand, when the red men of the forest will have to leave the land of their nativity, and find a home towards the setting sun,” Senachwine said.

“Resistance to the aggression of the whites is useless; war is wicked and must result in our ruin. Therefore let us submit to our fate, return not evil for evil, as this would offend the Great Spirit and bring ruin upon us. The time is near at hand when our race will be extinct, and nothing left to show to

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Senachwine, chief of the Potawatomi Indians, is believed to be the last of the major Potawatomi chieftains to live in this region. The name Senachwine is believed to mean “Rock in the Water,” which signified his strength among his people.

Illinois Valley Living

George Wheeler describes some of the items his family has collected from days gone by. the world that we ever did exist.”

About a year later, Senachwine died after visiting a nearby village. By his wishes, he was to be buried on a bluff, overlooking the village that bore his name. Although no absolute proof exists, Senachwine’s burial ground has been accepted by historians — and Senachwine’s descendants — as being on the George Wheeler farm near Putnam. The burial site was on top of six layers of Indian burials from long ago, with some of the bones dating into prehistoric times, according to Wheeler. A small building near the site serves as a local museum

P

erhaps you have a passion for those old porcelain coffee pots that you used to see on Grandma’s stove. Or maybe your collection of old tools, salt and pepper shakers or shot glasses has a prominent place in your home. Old furniture, sleds, watering cans, thimbles ... yesterday’s treasures are abundant in the Illinois Valley.

Whether you take an hour here and there or dedicate an entire day to antique hunting, you’ll want to make time to visit one or all of the antique dealers listed below.

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Sunday, 12 noon to 4 p.m.

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The George Wheeler family of Putnam County has several artifacts and stories from Senachwine’s era. It is believed Senachwine is buried on the property, and a stone marker behind the Wheeler home marks the grave. Wheeler’s great-grandfather bought the property in1888.

His grandfather, also George Wheeler, and his brother, Fred Wheeler, were the ones who began searching for Indian artifacts. Wheeler said artifacts still turn up on the property from time to time. and has several artifacts and stories of the Potawatomi during Senachwine’s day.

“My great-grandfather purchased the property we’re on in 1888. My grandfather inherited it from him in 1899,” Wheeler said. “About that time, my grandfather — who was George Wheeler — and his brother Fred Wheeler with two of the Winship family started hunting for Indian artifacts as a hobby. They were pretty active about it and had an impressive collection. They opened up the museum with around 10,000 artifacts.”

When Wheeler’s grandfather grew older, the Winship family took its portion of the collection, but what remains is still a trove of pottery pieces and tools, many of which are unique according to state archaeologists who have seen the collection. In the collection is a letter sent to Wheeler’s father

by Senachwine descendant Henry Claybear Nahgombe, who visited the site in 1937 when the Peoria chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution dedicated a plaque to Senachwine’s honor on the bluff.

A stone marker with the plaque at Senachwine’s grave sits atop the hill behind Wheeler’s home, looking out over the valley and the creek that still bear his name. The village that once filled the valley housed nearly 800 wigwams, and arrowheads and other artifacts still turn up there from time to time. It’s hard not to be taken by the majesty of the area.

“My wife and I have thought about moving into town, since upkeep on the grounds takes a lot,” Wheeler said. “But some days, I stand out here looking at this view, and I can’t imagine being anywhere else.”

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Illinois Valley Living

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Illinois Valley Living Journal

Story by Terri Simon Photo by Mike Vaughn

I

’ve always been infatuated with the moon. I know nothing about it scientifically — not a single thing, and I have no desire to learn. Actually, I think a more educated approach to the moon might just ruin it for me ...

You see, I love looking at the moon, knowing my dear friends in all parts of the country are also looking at the same moon as I am. Isn’t that amazing? Of course we all look at the same sun too, but it’s not nearly as significant or even as romantic as the moon, surrounded by darkness and the stars. I’ve spent countless hours in my life gazing at the moon, the man in the moon and the different aspects of it — whether it’s just a sliver, a half moon or my personal favorite, those huge full moons that can often take my breath.

Which leads me to the reason for this column ... I’m sure you’ve heard the old saying: “Once in a blue moon ...” It’s a phrase that speaks of something rare, and by all intents and purposes, a blue moon is just that. While there are a couple of definitions for a blue moon, the most common one says a blue moon occurs when there are two full moons in a single month — the second one being dubbed the “blue moon.” It happens infrequently. I believe the next blue moon is in July of this year,

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though there are times when years pass before a blue moon occurs.

So with that understanding, I’ve found myself using that saying, “Once in a blue moon ...” rather sparingly. To someone who enjoys analogies, I’m taken by the way nature and our world can mimic our own personal lives; so when I think of something rare — something that only happens “once in a blue moon,” I like to compare that to finding a friend who is extremely rare as well.

You know, we go through life and meet a myriad of people — most of those are mere acquaintances, while a slim minority turn out to be more than just a casual introduction. And of those who enter your life and end up sticking around for a while, there are probably only a handful who turn out to be the type of person who truly deserve the title of friend.

That might seem kind of harsh. After all, everyone of us know people who seem to have surrounded themselves with a host of friends. They usually are the life of the party, and inevitably, people gravitate toward them for a variety of reasons. Their friends are many; their enemies are few.

But once in a blue moon, you find a friend who is different from the rest — one who challenges you to be your best but who also understands you when you are not. That blue moon friend is the one who is there when you need them most ... and

still there when you need to have space to find yourself. That person is the one who walks in when you feel as if the rest of the world has walked out.

A blue moon friend encourages you to keep it real, to listen to your own heart, to live life to its fullest. There is no jealousy with a blue moon friend — only the sincerest desire to love you through thick and thin, good times and bad, happy days and horrible days. They see past the smile on your face, knowing when your heart is ready to break and the tears are ready to flow. Likewise, they share in your joy, your accomplishments, your accolades, knowing all too well that one can never experience joy without knowing what pain feels like too.

There are times when you can look into the eyes of your blue moon friend and see yourself, while there are other times when you see a mentor, a cheerleader, a disciplinarian ... and more, but without exception, you see a friend for life. That blue moon friend is the one who holds you up, helps you fall gently and understands that life can sometimes be unforgiving, not to mention unfair ... yet their love never falters.

Once in a blue moon ... that happens.

Illinois Valley Living Editor Terri Simon is an award-winning columnist, writer and photographer of the Illinois Press Association. She can be reached at tsimon@ bcrnews.com.

Illinois Valley Living

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Illinois Valley Living