IVL-03-28-15

Living Illinois Valley

Spring 2015

A picture really is worth a 1,000 words ... at Country Village Studio.

See our story on Page 4.

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Illinois Valley Living

Spring has sprung in the Illinois Valley

A

Living Illinois Valley

aahhh ... By the time this spring edition of Illinois Valley Living hits the street, you’ve probably already seen signs of spring sprouting up throughout the area. As Mother Nature paints her spring scenery, we can’t help but notice the beauty in her offerings. From tender buds on the trees ... to colorful blooms ... to the sound of lawn mowers in the distance ... to those heavy winter coats being shirked for spring jackets ... Mother Nature is clearly alive and well on Planet Illinois Valley.

While my two favorite seasons are definitely spring and fall, I think the spring season tips the scales for me. There’s just something so fresh ... so innocent about spring. I’ve always believed spring is an opportunity for second chances, if we just embrace them.

Have you noticed any signs of spring? I urge you to look at the world with fresh eyes this season and watch for the little things we often tend to ignore. I know many of us are very busy, but I have to believe taking time to embrace this season gives us the insight and the energy to appreciate the world around us. Breathe. Exhale. Enjoy.

I hope you enjoy this edition of Illinois Valley Living, filled with the people, places and things that make this area special. I learn something new about this great area we call home in every story we write, every magazine we publish. I hope you do too.

As always, I urge you to give me a call with your story ideas, comments, suggestions.

This magazine is published for you, our readers, and we respect and encourage your input. I can be reached at 815-875-4461, ext. 6330.

Have a great spring. And remember ... you are important to me and Illinois Valley Living.

Warm regards, Terri Simon Editor

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 Kath Clark

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Capturing the moments COUNTRY VILLAGE STUDIO CREATES LASTING MEMORIES

Story by Paul Higgerson Photos by Kath Clark

“A

good portrait doesn’t just take a picture of the outside; it’s what’s on the inside you try to

capture.”

These are the words of Ray Cox, landscape photographer and co-owner of Country Village Studio in Utica. Ray and his business partner, Jan Fitzsimmons, have certainly done just that. As you walk through the studio you can’t help but feel as though you’re walking through someone’s personal photo album. There is an image of Grandpa’s farm, family portraits, a barn torn down long ago and even that peaceful, favorite hideaway far off in a field.

The connection people have to the area draws them to the studio. We “get people with interest in the area. They’ve experienced something here, so they want to take it home with them,” Cox said. Perhaps it’s a picture of a canyon where a proposal was made or a trail hiked as children. The area is one of the main reasons Cox and Fitzsimmons settled on Utica when they opened their studio 19 years ago in the fall of 1996.

After meeting in a camera club and discovering their common interest in photography, this seemed like the next logical step. Utica seemed like the right choice due its “very good central location,” Cox said. That and the fact they were able to secure a building at the one stop sign on the block. The area always has been a central gathering place for families. The beautiful scenery and mix of things to do have

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Illinois Valley Living

consistently attracted people to the area, playing host to countless family get-togethers and reunions.

Country Village Studio began as an oldtime portrait studio complete with authentic era appropriate attire. Eventually they moved away from that into other areas.

While Cox focuses on landscapes, Fitzsimmons specializes in portraits. Interested in more of the art side of things, she has a knack for incorporating that art into her images, particularly with children. The idea, she says, is creating “more of story” than just a photo. It’s important because you never know today what’s going to be important tomorrow. That is the importance of the image. “Hopefully, our images will last a lifetime,” Fitzsimmons said.

After getting his start processing his “own images in the kitchen sink,” Cox continues to preserve historic and sentimental images. He joked Fitzsimmons doesn’t like to drive behind him on the way home because he’s always tapping his brakes looking for that perfect shot. It’s more than just an image to Cox; it’s his “way of looking at the world.”

One thing that sets Country Village Studio apart is the personal contact you get there. You get a real personal experience and not just during your visit. Customers have returned years later to ask if they can get a copy of an old family portrait or even to have a larger copy. Those requests are always fulfilled. That personal experience

Illinois Valley Living

Jan Fitzsimmons stands among many of the portraits she’s taken throughout the years.

While Fitzsimmons specializes in portraits, her business partner Ray Cox enjoys photographing landscapes. might just lead one down a different path than was originally envisioned. Some of the best stories are right in your own backyard. The key, according to Cox, is to bring that story out.

One such story involves pictures the studio didn’t even take. A customer called

after a tragic fire that resulted in the loss of a precious photo album. Fitzsimmons asked the customer to bring what was left of the album in, and they’d see what they could do. While none of the album was salvageable, Fitzsimmons did notice on the back edge of one of the photos was the

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original photographer’s name. As it turned out the photographer, located in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisc., was the very same one who had taken Fitzsimmons’ senior high school picture. She was able to get original photos from him and recreate the album for her customer.

Country Village Studio is about more than just taking pictures; it’s about the “relationship that you build with the people,” Fitzsimmons said. Those relationships have created countless family portraits and captured memories ranging from restoration work to that special moment or that special location. Sometimes people aren’t even aware of those moments until they step into the studio and see a shot of a location that bears special meaning to them. Thankfully, Cox just might have captured that image while driving home one evening, allowing that customer to take a part of the area back home with them.

After walking through the studio one comes to realize that they are walking through more than someone’s personal photo album. Country Village Studio is its very own photo album, capturing all the things that might mean something to people. Combined with the family portraits and special locations that customers have had photographed are the ones that are just there waiting for the right person to come along and identify with. Country Village Studio is more than just a studio; it is

You’re liable to see a host of familiar places in the photographs Ray Cox has taken and displayed at Country Village Studio in Utica. Cox and his business partner Jan Fitzsimmons offer a host of photography and photographic services at their studio. a “window to the world.”

If you want to flip through that album and experience it first hand, Country Village Studio is at 166 Mill St. in Utica. Hours

of operation are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. You can call the studio at 815-667-7194 or visit their website at countryvillagestudio.com.

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14057 IL Hwy. 26 • Princeton, IL Living Illinois Valley

Unofficially Speaking ...

WITH PRINCETON MAYOR KEITH CAIN Town of Residence: Princeton.

Where did you grow up: LaMoille.

Occupations: Mayor of the city of Princeton, Manager of Princeton Redi Mix and owner of Flowers By Julia.

Family: Julia, my wife; three sons, Eric (Jennifer) Cain, Marc (Kelly) Cain and Kyle (Kari) Cain; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandson.

What is the last book you read: “Paving the Road to Success.”

What is your favorite TV show: “Chicago Fire.”

What is the last movie you watched: “American Sniper.”

If you were stranded on a desert island and could have only one meal every day for the rest of your life, what would it be: Fish.

If you were stranded on a desert island and could only take one thing with you, what would it be: Boat.

What is your favorite local restaurant, and what do you like most to order there: Pizza Cellar — hamburger/pineapple pizza.

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

As mayor of the city of Princeton, what is the most enjoyable aspect of your job: Meeting people.

What do you consider the biggest challenges related to your position: Trying to please everyone.

What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen in Princeton throughout the years: Expansion of businesses and infrastructure on the north end of town.

If you could change one thing about your town, what would it be: Everyone would have a positive attitude.

Do you suggest young people enter

Princeton Mayor Keith Cain decided not to seek re-election, after serving as mayor for 16 years and commissioner for three years. An icon in the city of Princeton, Cain is clearly a hands-on mayor and takes pride in the city he’s proud to call home. your line of work: Yes. We need young people in the work force and to be involved in local politics.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement so far: Implementing the city manager type of government and the building of the new water treatment plant for the future of Princeton.

If someone asked you to name a memorable moment, what first comes to mind: The births of my sons, marrying my wife,

watching my family grow and attending my grandchildren’s events.

How do you spend your spare time: Working or attending community events and spending time with my family.

What is the best advice you can offer to others: Be honest and open minded, but at the same time, be able to make the hard decisions.

What three words describe you best: Caring, giving and hardworking.

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Princeton’s ‘Bondo Artist’ FRED PIERSON COMBINES WOOD AND AUTOMOTIVE PUTTY TO MAKE OBJECTS D’ART Story and photos by Lyle Ganther

F

Fred Pierson’s friends call him “Princeton’s Bondo Artist.” Pierson uses the vintage automotive putty to create a host of artistic endeavors, including his most recent creation, a 1937 John Deere Model G general purpose tractor.

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red Pierson of rural Princeton has been called Princeton’s Bondo Artist by his friend.

Pierson, who lives south of town on Lovers Lane Road, is an artist of a different ilk who can be found “manufacturing” a variety of objects d’art.

His most recent creation is a replica of a 1937 John Deere Model G general purpose tractor.

“I started Dec. 1 and finished it the first of February,” he said.”I spent a few hours each day working on it. I use whatever items I can find like a cap to a paint can, etc.”

The tractor and other items Pierson has created throughout the years is called Bondo Art, since each project uses a little to a lot of the vintage automotive putty.

Other recent creations include a miniature house, leaping frogs, a pig, a circus wagon or whatever else strikes his fancy.

Pierson started using Bondo on his artistic pieces by accident when he ran out of wood filler one day and used Bondo.

“It worked out pretty well, and I have been using it since,” he said. “I have made 23 little, horse-drawn wagons. This tractor was the 69th project. I have also done turkey buzzards, geese, ducks, pigs, circus wagon.”

Pierson said he and several of his other friends, Lew Flinn and Carl Cherrie, used

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Illinois Valley Living

Fred Pierson’s home on Lovers Lane Road outside of Princeton is home to a variety of art and a variety of friends who stop by his home to enjoy a cup of coffee, his latest artistic creation and some good old-fashioned camaraderie. Pierson said there’s always an empty cup and an extra chair for guests. to make the sawdust fly making items in the workshop located next to his “man cave.”

Pierson also hosts a local coffee group in his “man cave” at 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday. Pierson invited anybody to come view his creations if they are south of Princeton at “coffee time” because there’s always an empty cup, an extra chair for a visitor and an honest

appreciation for a new story to share.

“I also fix grandfather clocks (in his Stone Gate Crafts Shop),” he said. “I have made martin houses, covered wagons, backboard wagons and a post office wagon that is located in the Princeton Post Office.”

He has also made a miniature ark for a friend’s grandson named Noah, a sleigh for a neighbor, a model house and a piggy

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Pierson uses whatever kind of wood he can find to make his creations. He supplements wood with Bondo by putting the putty-like substance over screens.

“It takes eight minutes for a batch of Bondo to harden after it is mixed up. I then sand, file and paint it.”

Pierson has three sons in the automotive body business.

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Fred Pierson stands next to his newest “Bondo” creation — a replica of a 1937 John Deere tractor. Pierson uses the vintage automotive putty to create a variety of interesting pieces. At right, Pierson has a sign in his yard inspired by the M*A*S*H TV show, letting visitors know how far it is to where his four sons live.

“I could live here (in his man cave) if I wanted to do so,” he said. “I have a kitchen, one bathroom, popcorn popper, refrigerator, stove and oven.”

A retired service center training manager for Chrysler, Pierson, a 1954 graduate of Princeton High School, said his interest in art was sparked by famed Princeton artist Mary Win Norris after he showed

an interest in oil painting while going to PHS. “I moved back here 17-18 years ago after retiring,” he said. “We lived in Oswego for 33 years and came back to this area and bought this place on Lovers Lane. I was born on the other end of the road.”

Pierson ran a gas station in the 200 block of South Pleasant Street in Princ-

eton for two years before working for Chrysler.

Pierson has a M*A*S*H-inspired sign outside his shop with the names of the four towns where his sons live and the number of miles it is from his house to where they live in Burbank, Calif. (1,973 miles), Dwight (74 miles), Somonauk (67 miles) and Lovers Lane (2.4 miles).

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Illinois Valley Living

Model Zita Henneberry tries on five different work outfits at To Be Continued in downtown Princeton. This ensemble, head to toe, costs $24.53.

This outfit was $41.69. The shoes were the most expensive part of the outfits Henneberry tried on.

This outfit cost $33, including the shoes.

Dressing like a fashionista ... on a shoestring budget THRIFT AND CONSIGNMENT STORES: A TRENDY WAY TO SAVE AMONG SHOPPERS

Story by Goldie Currie and Shannon Serpette Photos by Goldie Currie

M

ichelle Black, owner of To Be Continued, a consignment boutique in Princeton, sees all types of people each week in her shop.

“We have a lot of families. They are getting new jobs, and they need whole new wardrobes,” she said, adding she sees a lot of teachers, bankers and others who have to dress professionally at work.

The shop also gets a lot of back-toschool shoppers, students and people who are new to the area.

“We do get a lot of college kids, especially the ones on Ramen noodle diets,” she said.

Some of the students are visiting consignment shops so they can still dress

Illinois Valley Living

fashionably even though they don’t have much money to spend; but others want to sell their stuff to make some extra cash, Black said.

“It’s a way to turn your trendy outfits in your closet into cash,” she said.

According to the shop’s Facebook page, the average ages of customers at To Be Continued is 25 to 44.

The popularity of thrift and consignment stores among the younger generations doesn’t surprise Black, but it does amuse her to hear it called a recent trend.

Like many long-term trends, it has waves of popularity, and then times when it is considered uncool.

In her formative years, Black used to frequent consignment shops.

“I didn’t have a lot of money growing up. I used to go consignment shopping

all the time,” she said.

Like many consignment stores, Black said she is rather picky when it comes to accepting items. But she wants to weed out less desirable items and brands, so her customers don’t waste their time.

“It’s like going through your girlfriend’s closet but only seeing the best stuff,” she said. “We’re picky, so you don’t have to be.”

To determine what teenagers like to wear, Black enlists help from her daughter, who is nearly 17.

“I cringe at some of the styles. I realize I have to let that go.” Black said. “I’ll bring it home, and she’ll say, ‘I love it.’ And I’ll say, ‘I knew you would love it because I hate it.’”

Black is constantly putting new items on display so customers can always see

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Above; Raylene Ferrari, owner of Upscale Resale in downtown Spring Valley, hangs new merchandise on her racks. Ferrari has watched the trend of thrifting grow throughout the years. Below; Julie Palmer, an employee at Upscale Resale, has been dubbed “the queen of thrifting.” Palmer enjoys re-purposing her treasured finds to fit her unique style. fresh styles when they come in.

“We add hundreds of items every week,” she said. “We do sell a lot of jewelry and handbags. Shoes go really well here.”

Her store has been in Princeton for more than four years. Its success has encouraged her to open another consignment store — this one will open in April in LaSalle at the corner of Marquette and First streets.

“That store will be about twice the size of this one,” she said.

Raylene Ferrari, owner of Upscale Resale in downtown Spring Valley, has watched the thrifting trend grow throughout the last couple of years. While she believes economics first boosted the trend, she said it has now caught on and become a way of life for a lot of her shoppers.

“I have thrifters of all ages. It’s not because they can’t afford otherwise, it’s because they want to do it this way,” she said.

Ferrari’s employee, Julie Palmer,

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strongly agrees.

Palmer has been in the thrifting scene her whole life and is one many call “the queen of thrifting.”

“I love it … It makes me sick to walk into department stores,” she said.

“There’s not a lot of good quality out there anymore … Good quality pieces are timeless.”

To Palmer, thrifting allows people to personalize their own style.

“Everything is so cookie cutter anymore,” she said. “I don’t want to have the same outfit that two million other people are wearing. I want to be an individual, and I think individuality is a huge thing people have lost.”

Ferrari admits she wasn’t much of a thrifter before she opened her shop, mainly because she wasn’t taught how to do it.

“I think you are taught this when you’re younger, whether it was your mother who did it or a friend who got you into it,” she said. “When I started this, I was like holy cow, you can find great stuff here.”

And the idea only people of lower incomes shop thrift stores is definitely

Illinois Valley Living

Bringing home the bacon with consignment

This suit, along with the red shirt and the shoes, cost $39.82.

This shirt, shoes and pants had a collective price tag of $26.18. Henneberry loved the shirt and shoes so much she bought them.

not a true statement, according to Ferrari.

“It’s not the poor people keeping me open. It’s the people that know how to spend their money who are keeping me here,” she said.

She said while those with less money are spending their money at expensive stores like The Gap, smart shoppers are walking into her store and purchasing a Lands End high-quality blouse for $3.50.

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Michelle Black, owner of To Be Continued consignment boutique, has seen a lot of people earn some serious money just by cleaning their closets.

“We wear 10 percent of our closet,” she said. “You have 90 percent of stuff in there you can sell.”

Here’s how it works at her store (various consignment shops may have different rules): She only accepts in-season clean clothes in good condition. The clothes must have been purchased in the past two years. All home items, toys, furniture, books and games must be in like-new condition and working order.

Items are accepted the third Saturday of every month, except June and December — she has guidelines about desirable brands on her Facebook page and in the store. The items are displayed for a certain amount of time. If they sell, the seller gets a percentage of the sale.

To Be Continued offers two account options. Sellers can earn cash on their items — this account does require a $10 bi-annual fee. Or sellers can opt for an account credit only in which they use any accumulated credit toward their purchases.

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432 S Main Street, Princeton 13

Allen Junior High SCHOOL, LANDMARK, MUSEUM AND PRIDE

Story and photos by Zita Henneberry Photos contributed

T

Allen Junior High School in LaMoille is commonly known as the oldest unmodified and functional school building in all of Illinois. This brick structure has withstood the test of time since 1887.

hrough the front doors dangles an ancient-looking rope looped on its hook up and off to the left.

Its end brushes the floor while the length of the rope extends up through a hole in Allen Junior High’s second story and all the way up to the historical bell tower.

In the bell tower of Allen Junior High hangs the original bell taken from the former 1850s LaMoille School house.

Inscribed on the walls of today’s Allen Junior High bell tower is the graffiti of the prior LaMoille generations. Engraved into the top of the door frame leading to the school’s attic is, “Thos Whiting,” “Riley F. Wood,” and the year “1899.”

Built in 1887, with money left for its assembly by LaMoille’s late Joseph Allen, Allen Junior High is commonly known as the oldest unmodified school building in all of Illinois.

The great thing about the school is it’s just as sound as the day it was built, said local historian and former custodian Neal Drummer.

Prior to his death, Joseph Allen filed a bequest leaving $35,000 for the building and maintenance of Allen Junior High.

A total of $25,000 would go to the structure’s construction and $10,000 would be left to the school for maintenance

The century-old school bell, housed in the tower atop Allen Junior High, originally hung in the 1850s one-room schoolhouse.

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Illinois Valley Living

The 1904 football team is pictured in front of the former Allen High Neal Drummer (left) and George McCollum sifted through old Allen School building. This picture was taken from the Allen Junior High Junior High photographs and reminisced about their days attending collection of Neal Drummer, a former custodian at the school. the school. purposes. The school would utilize only the interest of the money for educational or building necessities. In this way, Allen Junior High was ensured funds to function in order to continue providing a high-quality education in the exceptional facility for years and years.

To this day, Allen Junior High has $10,000 left to it by Joseph Allen back in

1887 that it is unable to spend.

“They’ve tried,” said Drummer. However, the school is unable to access the money outlined by Allen’s final bequest.

“I wonder if our present superintendent knows about it,” he said.

Drummer described Allen as a true selfmade man.

Born in Hampshire County, Mass.,

Greenfield

May 21, 1813, Allen moved to Princeton in 1836. About one year later, Allen laid claim to a significant section within LaMoille Township. At the time of his death, the successful stockman and businessman owned many securities and 960 acres of land adjacent to LaMoille.

Drummer and his friend, George McCollum, sat and reminisced about

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their days attending Allen Junior High.

The two remembered their walks on “Allen Day,” when students would file out and walk to the Greenfield Cemetery where Joseph Allen is buried. Students would gather to lay down flowers at his grave.

The school stopped celebrating “Allen Day,” said Drummer, when the high school and junior high were united under a joint council.

As a school doused in local history, Allen Junior High proudly clutches to its roots and foundation. Facing the front door is the portrait of Joseph Allen himself and next to it hangs a photo of five young women, the school’s first ever graduating class. Prior to the construction of the LaMoille High School in 1956, Allen Junior High served as both junior high and a high school throughout its many years of educational prowess.

Every single one of those women are buried down the road at the local cemetery, said Drummer.

The generations which have passed through the halls of Allen Junior High carry with them the history of their fellows, their families, as well as their community. Often unbeknownst to them, the students of Allen Junior High are handed the advantage of a history in the detail of a lasting foundation and local pride.

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Illinois Valley Living

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3 1. The attic at Allen Junior High is currently used for storage.

2. The telescope is bolted to the floor, left facing the window where it was last used decades ago. Also pictured is the rope which extends through the floors from the bell tower to the front doors.

3. The iron shoe scraper off to the left in this century-old photograph remains outside Allen Junior High School’s front doors today.

4. Kids played baseball in the front courtyard of the now Allen Junior High during the early 1900s while off in the background a few spectators relax atop their grazing horses.

5. The eyes of the 1907 Allen High School baseball team are almost haunting in this old team photograph.

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The Dickinson House in Oglesby may be surrounded by the winter’s snow, but what you’ll find inside is a warm and inviting atmosphere for all who gather there.

Past ... present ... future OGLESBY’S DICKINSON HOUSE IS A GEM

Story by Paul Higgerson Photos by Kath Clark

E

ntering the main room at the Dickinson House, it is easy to lose your sense of time and place.

Looking out the nearly floor-to-ceiling windows, studying the open space ringed with trees, you feel as though you could literally be anywhere in the United States.

The past combines with the present here, and that’s a testament to the vision and combined effort of the city of Oglesby,

the Dickinson Foundation, citizens and all the volunteers who have put countless hours into bringing this facility to life.

Located on the south side of Oglesby, the Dickinson House was opened in 1941 by the Marquette Cement plant and named for its founder, Theodore G. Dickinson. Ownership passed to the Lone Star Cement Co. before the city of Oglesby purchased the building in 1994. After sitting idle for a few years, the Dickinson House sprung back into action, renewing its place in the community.

A few years back, an addition was being put on Lincoln School, and the preschoolers found themselves without a classroom. The Dickinson House was home to the preschoolers for two years while the addition was being completed. A lot of work was put into getting it ready for the children, and much more still needed to be accomplished. Today the city handles the day-to-day operations, while the Dickinson Foundation, created in 1998, handles the facelifts and upgrades.

Gary L. Peterlin spearheaded the Dick-

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inson Foundation and is the president today. He has also had his share of experiences at the Dickinson House.

“I was able, as a young person, to come and enjoy the facility,” he said. This connection with the past, along with a vision for the future has really made the Dickinson House viable today while still maintaining its heritage. “It’s exciting to have it reopened and have people experience things my generation took for granted,” Peterlin said.

Some of those things include the wonderful main room, formerly a library, which now sees its share of wedding and baby showers. There’s also a six-lane bowling alley. The bowling alley has been part of the building since it opened.

Closed in 1994, it reopened in the late 1990s. The manual lanes have been converted to automatic lanes, but it still has that nostalgic feel, like the rest of the house. It is a wonderful facility, homey and comfortable. Today, according to Bob Ghighi, Oglesby’s park and recreation director, it’s used “mainly for family reunions and kids’ parties.” The bowling alley can be rented out every day of the week from roughly 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

There is a meeting room downstairs that is usually used by both the Girl and Boy Scouts. It is a fine room, very nicely remodeled, equipped with a kitchen, and plenty of space. The umpires used it during the Central Region Senior League Baseball Tournament. The old men’s locker room is currently undergoing a renovation in hopes of making it an “arts and crafts room for the arts and crafts camps” held here, said Ghighi. Another locker room is home to several clubs.

Clubs such as the Slovenian Women’s Union, the Nine Patch Quilter’s Guild, Quilter’s group and the Ladies Card group meet regularly there.

While all these upgrades and renovations have occurred, there are still those little reminders of the Dickinson House’s past. If you ask maintenance man Rich Watts to see the basement, one might notice numerous phone numbers, one of a former Oglesby mayor, scribbled above a land line on the wall. Without a call

Oglesby Park and Recreation Director Bob Ghighi stands next to the fireplace in one of the meeting rooms inside Dickinson House. The facility hosts several meetings and gatherings every year. history and the ability to save numbers in one’s cell phone, this was once the way to “speed dial” someone. Those telephone numbers which clearly could have been painted over ... still remain, as a reminder

of the past.

One might pass the little alcove on the main floor that once housed the old phone booth. The very same phone booth youngsters used to dial their home

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Long before the days of cell phones, the numbers of city officials, including the mayor, can still be seen scrawled on the walls in Dickinson House maintenance man Rich Watts’ basement workroom. At right, the six-lane bowling alley is frequently rented out for parties, Watts said, who takes immense pride in keeping the facility in tip-top shape. number only to hang up after one ring.

This was no accident; it was a signal to their parents that they were at the Dickinson House and ready to come home, all the while saving the change required for the call.

Combining the past, the present, while looking toward the future, the Dickinson House has become a living, breathing part of the community. Whether it’s a meeting of the Scouts, a meeting of AARP No.

3628, a children’s bowling party or a baby shower in the main room, the Dickinson House sees the whole spectrum — parents, grandparents, children and grandchildren — and it’s all on the south side of Oglesby.

Keep your eyes open for any of the number of fundraisers the Dickinson House puts on throughout the year as well. Whether it’s the pancake breakfast, Cinco de Mayo banquet, pork chop din-

ner or the annual Christmas Party, you can be sure you’ll have some fun while helping the Dickinson Foundation and the city of Oglesby maintain and improve this wonderful house.

If you’re interested in creating a new memory or reliving an old one, contact Ghighi at the Dickinson House at 815883-8121.

The Dickinson House is located at 440 Dale Ave.

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Behind the Scenes NORMAN ENGSTROM TALKS ABOUT HIS LIFE — ON AND OFF THE STAGE

learn some new material and to learn about Richard Rodgers and Lorenze Hart. It was the one and only time I have tap danced. The other six cast members were some of the most talented and dedicated people I have ever worked with. The director, David Bell, was a pure delight of creativity and personality.

Is there one show you would really like to do and haven’t been able to do yet: “Les Miserables.”

Have you ever forgotten lines during a performance: Who hasn’t at some point?

How did the “Random Act of Culture” come about, and how did you get involved: After the IVCC and L-P choirs and community members performed “The Messiah” with the Illinois Valley Symphony Orchestra, people were asking for more. Chris Kelsey had seen the “Hallelujah Chorus” on Youtube, called me, and we put it together. I conducted and rehearsed, and she did everything else.

What is the last book you read: “The Bourne Trilogy” by Robert Ludlum, second time to

see what I had missed the first time, especially after the movies totally missed the central idea of the originals.

What is your favorite TV show: At present – “Castle.”

If you were stranded on a desert island and could only have one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be: Lobster, mashed potatoes and vegetables with ice cream for dessert. (I recently got back from a vacation in Maine.)

What is your favorite local restaurant and what do you usually order: Uptown, I try to get something different every time.

How do you spend your free time: Jogging the Starved Rock trails – if they ever decide to reopen them. The Tow Path is second choice. Gardening, reading, going to the suburbs to sing and direct a theatre program for the developmentally disabled.

What is the best thing about living in your hometown: If you mean Spring Valley — it contains my house. If you mean Iowa and Nebraska – the school systems had a strong conviction to the arts.

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Illinois Valley Living

What is your favorite part of theater: Creating a character and performing him/her/it.

What has been the favorite show you have done and why: “Rodgers and Hart: A Musical Celebration” - a musical review of Rodgers and Hart songs. I was not familiar with the Hart collaboration, so it was fun and educational to

5k Run/Walks ~ Car Shows ~ Historical Museums Fishing ~ Festivals ~ Parades ~ Motorcross Races Beer Gardens ~ Theater ~ Golf ~ Bicycle Rides Fireworks ~ Boat Races ~ Farmer’s Markets Community Band Concerts ~ Antique Shops ~ Flea Markets 10th Annual “More on 34” 100 mile Garage Sale along Route 34 – June 19 & 20 DePue Pro National Boat Races – July 31 – Aug 1 160th Annual Bureau County Fair – Aug 26-30th See our website for the “Barn Quilts of Bureau County” map of 50+ barn quilts

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21

Jumping into spring!

Photos by Dick Todd

S

pring! It comes every year, but do we really take the time to notice?

Of course, that jacket feels nice, compared to a bulky winter coat, but what about the signs of spring Mother Nature delivers every year without question? All of her winter fury is forgiven quickly, when she delivers the gentle breezes of spring and all it has to offer. Frogs ... bees ... birds ... plants ... it’s difficult to choose our favorite as they enter our world quietly and without fanfare. The tender buds on the trees, the flowers that begin to push themselves from their winter slumber, even the warm breezes on our faces remind us why spring is important to us. Take a look around. Our changing seasons are only important if we take the time to notice. Take a walk around your yard. Go to the park. Look for spring’s signs. They are all around us. We at Illinois Valley Living invite you to enjoy Spring 2015 through these photos, hoping it will encourage you to head outdoors and capture some images of your own.

22

Illinois Valley Living

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Illinois Valley Living

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23

A title fight for charity RUMBLE FOR THE KIDS IS APRIL 25 Story by Zita Henneberry Shaw Media Service file photos

F

rom a national television wrestling champion to being the father of two, Frank Wolsfeld has made his mark in the world ‌ but his job is not finished yet.

Having settled down in Princeton years ago, Wolsfeld has built his life here in North Central Illinois. Through his Rumble for Kids event, the national champion is merging his two worlds for charity.

Wolsfeld said there was always the occasion where people would recognize him from back in the days as Frankie the Chi-Town Hitman, the professional wrestler. However, since he started the Rumble for Kids event, the occasional recognition has grown to signing his autograph for kids on a daily basis.

Three years ago, Wolsfeld made contact with old wrestling champions, friends and contacts to host the first ever Rumble for Kids event. The event, which brings in professional wrestlers from all over the nation, primarily raises money for local charities.

Smiling, Wolsfeld said he now keeps a stack of 8-by-10 wrestling pictures in the

24

Illinois Valley Living

car to autograph for kids. It’s fun seeing how excited they get, and he doesn’t like to let them down, he added.

Since Rumble for Kids, Wolsfeld’s status as a local celebrity has skyrocketed.

What truly surprised him, he said, was the number of people who seem to really like wrestling and want to contribute.

Wolsfeld himself will be featured, fighting to hold onto his Rumble for the Kids belt.

“I haven’t been defeated in 20 years,” he said.

There may come a day, said Wolsfeld, when he’s been hit with one too many metal chairs. However, the end of his career will not mean the end of Rumble.

Illinois Valley Living

Wolsfeld is currently training for his fight as he does every year and said he has a few more years of fighting ahead of him.

With tickets on sale for $10, Wolsfeld is currently working with the community to collect sponsorships. There are varying levels of sponsorship, he explained.

A sponsorship would come with varying benefits as well, such as business or organization representation at the event.

The lightweight sponsorship consists of donating $100; the middleweight as $300; and the heavyweight as $500.

In recent years, Rumble for Kids doubled in attendance and has raised thousands of dollars for both Easter Seals and PES Plays. This year proceeds from the

event will again be going to PES Plays, an organization helping to construct playground equipment at Princeton Elementary Schools. The ultimate goal is to benefit the children, Wolsfeld said.

To Wolsfeld, nothing compares to the excitement plastered on kids’ faces at the Rumble for Kids event.

Lions Club member and Princeton resident Scott Smith said the pure excitement on his nephews’ faces at last year’s event was priceless. One boy didn’t sit down the whole night, and nothing compares to that, Smith said.

“It’s for the kids,” Wolsfeld repeated.

Everything about his event is geared toward children, he stressed.

A limited number of sponsorship funds will go to pay for some children’s tickets.

By working with the local food pantries and schools, Wolsfeld aims to provide tickets to children who would not be able to attend otherwise. The end goal is to benefit the children, said Wolsfeld, whether that’s helping them attend the Rumble or going toward their playgrounds.

Wyanet Food Pantry Director Kathy Crayne said she looks forward to working with Wolsfeld to provide tickets for children in need throughout the local area.

Impressed by his dedication, Crayne said, “We need people like that.”

This event is family fun right here in the area, said Wolsfeld. What normally would not be available to small town kids will be here locally in Princeton Saturday, April 25, at Logan Junior High School. The event will be focused on family fun with a more ‘70s-style wrestling portrayal.

These wrestlers dress up to portray their character while having a blast performing for the kids. The theatrics of the event are fun for everyone, but kids especially eat it up. But then everyone can have fun rooting for the hero and booing the villain, Wolsfeld added.

It’s all about the performance, said Wolsfeld, especially with the fantastic light and sound show donated through

25

Fifth Dimensions volunteers.

Local students will be selling the tickets.

Prizes like Dr. Dre Beats and RCA tablets, four tickets to Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium and one year of free ice cream from Grandma Rosie’s will be given to the top sellers. The class with the most sales will likely receive a pizza party with a featured wrestler, said Wolsfeld.

The professional wrestling charity event will bring in wrestlers donating much of their time and skills from all over America. Utilizing his wrestling connections from his years as a professional, Wolsfeld has managed to organize a community favorite.

These wrestlers are professionals who travel all over, but they love coming to Princeton, Wolsfeld said. He added, every year wrestlers are already committing to the next Rumble for Kids.

The wrestling consists of a Three Stooges, slapstick wrestling style; the entire event is geared toward family fun and children, a rare and treasured local commodity.

It’s a great price for some great memories and a great cause, said Wolsfeld.

For more information or to contribute to the Rumble for the Kids event, contact Servicemaster’s branch manager Frank Wolsfeld at 815-879-4411, through the Rumble for the Kids Facebook page, or visit the Rumble for the Kids website at www.rumbleforthekids.com.

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Illinois Valley Living

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Workcamp 2016 ST. MATTHEWS SHINES A LIGHT ON HELPING OTHERS Story by Zita Henneberry Photos contributed

T

he wheels are turning; the workers are congregating; and the Christians are praising the efforts of St. Matthews Lutheran Church for bringing a 2016 workcamp to Princeton.

“Every time I went, I kept thinking, ‘We could do this in Princeton,’” said Linda Berry. After attending three workcamps or Christian group mission trips, Berry determined it was time to bring the mission home.

Working with St. Matthews Pastor Scott Schmidt, the two are in the midst of organizing the mission trip which will bring youth from all over the nation to Princeton. Under a construction crew’s advisement, workcampers will provide the labor for home improvements many people are unable to do themselves or cannot afford to pay for.

Workcamp is a Christian-based organization which helps bring youth group mission trips to area communities. These kids pay to go work and improve someone else’s home, said Schmidt.

For whatever their reasons, people often have home improvements or local projects they may need help with. This mission trip of campers is not only ready to help, they want to.

The teens and supervisors generally come as a church, explained Schmidt, but they are then divided into groups with strangers to go out and work in the community. While there are group activities and worship in the evenings, camp volunteers spend most their day working at their construction sites or on home improvement projects.

Part of the process, said Barry, is to select the homes which will benefit most.

For this, there are applications available throughout the community. Through the churches, the food pantry or local senior center, area residents can apply for work camp assistance.

There is a knowledgeable construction crew which will determine the feasibility and timeliness of a project as part of the selection process, said Berry. These projects need to be simple enough that campers can accomplish them in a week and without prodigious skill or construction experience. Any project left unfinished at the week’s end will leave the workcamp organizers and construction committees responsible for its completion, she added.

The camp’s project advisors, hospitality

28

Workcamper Brett Wonders, a teen from the state of Ohio, helped scrape a house in Jackson, Mich., before painting the home with his workcamp team. This 2011 workcamp group helped to improve this home and the community during their camp stay in Michigan.

Illinois Valley Living

This summer of 2014 workcamp group painted the barn and home Three teenage girls worked together to paint the back porch of a of a Minnesota family. The workcamp group visited Glenwood, family home in Rochester, Ind., during their 2012 workcamp trip, Minn., to improve the community and worship together. much like the event coming to Princeton in 2016. crew and various camp committees were determined at the first planning meeting, held in March and hosted at St. Matthews Church in Princeton.

Currently collecting sponsors and raising money, Schmidt and Berry are on a mission for the mission. With local community churches, government and supportive

Illinois Valley Living

individuals aiding the effort, Schmidt says they plan to raise around $30,000 for the camp.

Without even really trying, nearly half the money has been collected already. The minimum needed is $20,000, but Schmidt and Berry are estimating around $30,000 in order to cover the supplies, which will be

purchased locally.

It is going to happen for sure, said Schmidt, especially now that Logan Junior High approved the use of their building for the cause.

Workcampers sleep at schools, said Berry. Berry and Schmidt approached Superintendent Tim Smith and custodial

29

Princeton resident and crew leader Linda Berry helped a young Workcamp groups, like this one pictured during a 2014 summer Michigan boy to improve the landscape of this Minnesota home trip to Minnesota, often stay at local schools. Events are planned for during their 2012 workcamp trip. the campers throughout their stay.

and transportation Director Wayne Barr witness. in support of the workcamp effort, the city about hosting the camp at Logan as one of The financial stimulation alone has of Princeton has committed to helping in their initial steps in the camp’s organizareached a quarter of a million around non-monetary contributions. They’ve voltional process. other workcamp communities in the past. unteered to haul away the trash for free or “They were thrilled to be asked to be While the time and stringent process help with transportation need, which will involved,” said Berry. of organizing the camp can be trying, be hugely beneficial, said Schmidt.

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Illinois Living Agent Name Valley Crane Schafer Agent Na 1114-032 Agent Name Crane A Agent Crane Scha Agent Name Crane Schafer Agent Na City SpringName Valley Schafer City Crane Agent Mike Schafer Morris Name 012013-00484AC Agent Name Ron Agent Mike Behrends Morris Name 012013-00484AC Agent Name Ron Behrends Agent Name 012013-00484AC 012013-00484AC 1114-032 012013-00484AC 012013-00484AC 012013-00484AC 1114-032 012013-00484AC 1114-032 City815-664-4145 Spring(000) Valley City Valley Spring123Vall Cityequal Spring City 123-4567 Spring Princeton City Valley City Princeton Tiskilwa City Tiskilwa City IssuedCity

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Lindberg flies high at Bureau County Senior Center ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR BRINGS SMILES IN A MYRIAD OF WAYS Story and photos by Goldie Currie

W

alking through the doors of the Bureau County Senior Center, visitors are welcomed by a kindhearted face at the front door.

This would be Debbie Lindberg, activities director for the center.

Whether it’s been a good or bad day, Lindberg makes an effort to place a positive impression on anyone who enters the center ... whether it be with her bubbly personality, her fun sense of style, her creative decor or new and entertaining activities.

In her position, Lindberg’s job is to discover and bring life to the activities and crafts seniors partake in at the center.

She is also in charge of planning out the center’s decor for each holiday, which gives seniors a comforting atmosphere for visiting or relaxing.

“We want them to come down here and feel welcomed and like they can stop by any time,” she said. “Any time we can try something to make it a little different just to brighten their week, we’ll try it. I’m always on the outlook for something to do. I like to go big.”

Throughout the years, Lindberg has created numerous fun activities for seniors. Everything from knitting groups, tea times, holiday parties, carnival days, summer Olympics games and more.

“I love it,” she said. “It’s the best job I’ve ever had. If I’m not playing doing this, I’m playing with them. There’s not much stress involved.”

Crafting and creating has always been a part of Lindberg.

“People love to see what I make,” she said. “Some will get me stuff just to see what I’ll do next.”

Residents at the center are quick to say favorable things about Lindberg.

They all think she does a wonderful job, and it’s always a guess to see what sort of original activity she’s got up her sleeve.

Her crafts and creations have helped

Illinois Valley Living

Above; Debbie Lindberg, activities director at the Bureau County Senior Center, stands with just a few of her creative creations that give the center a warmer atmosphere. At right; a snowman made from re-purposed jars by Lindberg decorates the center for St. Patty’s Day. many at the senior center feel more invited, and some have even come out of their shells when giving her activities a try.

“They’re not always comfortable doing this stuff, but when they see everyone else doing it, it prevails. They become more comfortable, and everybody is laughing in the end,” she said.

Denise Ihrig, director of the senior center, said Lindberg is an important asset to the center.

Ihrig admires her creativeness and ability to come up with the variety of fun activities she offers, especially on the low budget she’s given.

“We are fortunate to have someone like Debbie on our team,” she said. “She really brings the positiveness and enjoyment we need at our center.”

31

Smooth ... sailing into spring TEMPT YOUR PALATE AND QUENCH YOUR THIRST WITH A REFRESHING SMOOTHIE

By Judy Dyke Dyke t’s that time of year when we begin to kick that hot tea and cocoa to the curb, opting for a cool, refreshing drink. With so many fresh fruits available in the spring and summer, these recipes are not only a bit different than a typical soft drink, but they can also be nourishing too.

Try experimenting by adding new and/or different fruits to your smoothies, and you’ll come up with a variety of concoctions to please everyone in your family.

I

Orange Crème Drinkable Yogurt Smoothie 1 6-ounce container Yoplait original 99% fat free orange crème yogurt

2 tablespoons orange juice 1 orange slice, if desired

Eat about a tablespoon of yogurt out of yogurt container. Stir orange juice into yogurt with fork until smooth. Add a straw and enjoy from yogurt container. Garnish with orange slice.

Strawberry and Farm Fresh Blueberry Smoothie 2 cups strawberries 1 cup blueberries 1 cup coconut water 1 cup strawberry yogurt

Granola for garnish Fresh mint for garnish Special equipment: A plastic straw and two 16 ounce Mason jars

Using a knife, remove the stems and white bitter part of the strawberry. Combine the strawberries, blueberries, coconut water and strawberry yogurt in a blender. Cover with the lid, Press the setting for puree and let it run until the texture is nice and smooth, for at least 30 seconds. Pour into two 16-ounce Mason jars or four 8-ounce jars. Garnish with granola. And mint leaves.

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

Orange Banana Smoothie 1 1/2 cups freshly squeezed orange juice (4 oranges) 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice

1 cup strawberries, tops removed and cut in half 1 to 1 1/2 ripe bananas

Combine the orange juice, lime juice, strawberries, and bananas in a blender and process until smooth. Refrigerate until cold.

A.M. Adams, D.V.M. K.A. Reed, D.V.M.

website www.andersenbuildings.com

BUREAU VALLEY VETERINARY SERVICE LTD. 820 Backbone Rd East • Princeton, IL 61356 (815) 875-1621 (815) 875-5041 fx 32

Illinois Valley Living

Banana Raspberry Smoothie

Watermelon Smoothie

1/2 pint fresh raspberries 1 ripe banana 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice

3 cups chopped watermelon 2 cups plain nonfat Greek style yogurt

1/2 cup skim milk 1/4 cup yogurt, Greek or regular 1 tablespoon good honey 2 cups ice

1/3 cup Kool-Aid strawberry flavor sugar sweetened drink mix

Blend ingredients in blender until smooth. Serve immediately.

Combine the raspberries, banana, orange juice, milk, yogurt, honey and ice in a blender and process until smooth and serve.

Blueberry Blast Smoothie

Strawberry Lemonade Smoothie

1/2 cup nonfat or 1% low fat milk 1/2 cup non fat plain yogurt 1 cup frozen blueberries,

2 cups lemonade 2 cups frozen unsweetened straw3/4 cup (6 ounces) lemon yogurt berries 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Place all ingredients in a blender. Cover and process 15 seconds or until blended. Serve immediately. Serves 4.

Put all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth.

Chocolate Orange Smoothie

1/2 frozen banana 1/2 cup ice 1/2 scoop (about 2 tablespoons vanilla protein powder (optional) Flesh of 2 oranges 3/4 cup milk

1 3/4 cups chocolate almond breeze almond milk 1 cup baked mashed orange flesh sweep potato, chilled 2 ice cubes 1 tablespoon finely grated orange zest

Orange Creamsicle Smoothie with Cranberry Swirl

2 tablespoons fresh squeezed orange juice 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks, chilled

1 tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For Cranberry Swirl 1 cup frozen cranberries 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon water

Into a small sauce pot, place the ingredients for the cranberry swirl, bring to a simmer, and let cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened and the cranberries have popped/mashed. Set aside.

Place all the ingredients for the smoothie into a blender and blend until smooth. Pour the smoothie into glasses, drop the cranberry sauce into the glasses and swirl with a spoon. Garnish with additional orange slices if desired and serve. Makes 2.

In a blender, combine almond milk, sweet potato, ice, orange zest, orange juice, maple syrup and pineapple and puree until smooth.

Serve immediately.

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33 3/12/2015 1:17:28 PM

Behind the Scenes ...

WITH ASPEN DENTAL’S CLAIRE DIAZ Questions compiled and photo

by Terri Simon

Town of residence: Ottawa.

Where did you grow up: Ottawa.

Occupation: Dental assistant at Aspen Dental.

Family: My mom, Sheila, and two older sisters, Courtney and Aubree, who is the hygienist at Aspen Dental.

Pets: Two dogs (Nugget and Bear) and one bird (Cheeto).

What is the last book you read: “Grandma’s Cookie Jar” by Terri Simon, editor of Illinois Valley Living.

What is the last TV show you watched: “Better Call Saul” on AMC. What is your favorite movie: “Big Daddy” with Adam Sandler.

What is the last song you listened to: “Only One” by Kanye West and Paul McCartney.

People would be surprised to know that you: I am pretty handy with a power tool!

If you were stranded on a desert island and could have one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be: That’s an easy one! Tacos!

If you were stranded on a desert island and could only take one thing with you, what would it be: My dog, Nugget.

When you were a little girl, what did you want to be when you grew up: A dolphin trainer.

What is the most enjoyable aspect of your job at Aspen Dental: Every mouth deserves a second chance, and it’s so rewarding to see people happy and confident about their smile again!

What are the biggest challenges of your job: We try to give every patient the care

When it comes to smiles, Claire Diaz of Ottawa offers her clients a big one at Aspen Dental in Peru. Diaz, who is a dental assistant, helps patients feel welcome, confident and happy during their visits. She takes pride in the office’s ability to offer its clients the ability to go home with a smile they can be proud of. they need which makes for a busy schedule. I love the fast-paced environment, but it can sometimes be a challenge. It makes the day go by fast, but I also love that we are able to take care of multiple patients at a time.

If someone asked you to name a memorable moment since working at Aspen Dental, what comes to mind: We had a patient who was only 29 years old and

engaged to be married. She had been unhappy and self conscious about her smile for years, which made it difficult for her to even think about planning her wedding. We were able to give her a new smile within a week of her coming in. When she looked in the mirror, she started to tear up but had the biggest smile on her face, telling us how much she loved her new smile!

Know your

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Henry A Hackman, Agent

1712 Fourth Street, Peru, IL 61354 Bus: 815-223-1900 henry.hackman.b0cc@statefarm.com Whether you need a question answered, a problem solved or a claim reported, my job is to make it happen. CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

State Farm – Bloomington, IL statefarm.com®

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Post Office Box 114 Walnut, IL. 61376 Email: haroldrollo@yahoo.com Website: www.rolloconstruction.com

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Home: 815-379-9317 Ans. Machine: 815-379-2350 Cell Phone: 815-303-9321 Illinois Valley Living

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Women now have a new partner and advocate in health – the newest OB/GYN at IVCH, Dr. Mitchell Khan. From preventive care and menopause to prenatal care and gynecological surgery – and everything in between – he provides a total healthcare resource for women in all stages of life. Board certified, Dr. Khan has years of women’s health experience, most recently serving as Medical Director of OB/GYN Services for a rural hospital as well as caring for women through his own clinic. He’s dedicated his life to your health.

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35

Wülf Cinq-Mårs, owner of Dark Star Comics, showcases his favorite superhero, Spiderman, in his downtown Princeton comic book store.

Up, up and away ...

SUPERHEROES: BRINGING IN BIG BUCKS AT THE BOX OFFICE Story and photo by Shannon Serpette

W

ith the incredible success of “Iron Man,” “The Avengers” and other superhero franchises, Hollywood is taking notice. These days, even third-tier superheroes like Ant-Man are getting their own movies — a move that would have been unheard of 20 to 30 years ago. Back then, only the upper echelon of superheroes, like Batman or Superman, warranted their own movies.

Steve Freeman, owner of Metropolis Comics in LaSalle, said although he loves the character, he never expected Ant-Man would get his own movie. At best, he was hoping the hero would be brought into another movie as a secondary character.

Clearly the film industry loves superhero movies because they bring in big bucks, but why are superhero movies so popular with audiences?

“They’re instant gratification,” Freeman said. “Everybody has an inner

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nerd.”

And everyone’s inner nerd will find a lot of reasons to celebrate in 2016, considering the numerous superhero and villain movies scheduled for theatrical release then: They include, among others, “Deadpool”; “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice”; “Captain America: Civil War”; “X-Men: Apocalypse”; “Power Rangers”; “Suicide Squad”; “Gambit”; “Doctor Strange”; and “Spider-Man: Sinister Six.” Another reason superhero movies have become so popular in the past 15 years is because movie-makers now have the technology to make these movies look more realistic, and technology is more affordable than ever, Wülf Cinq-Mårs, owner of Dark Star Comics in downtown Princeton, said.

As much as fans love to see their favorite heroes brought to life, they can also be highly critical because they have a deep attachment to the characters. When they feel a role has been miscast, sometimes they can’t bring themselves to see that movie at all.

Freeman isn’t sure he’ll even watch

“Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” because he feels Ben Affleck is dreadfully miscast as Batman.

“Did you forget what he did to Daredevil?” he asked.

Fans of women characters are still waiting for their favorites to have their own movies. Although Batman and Superman have had multiple box office franchises, the last remaining member of DC’s Big Three, Wonder Woman, has yet to appear in her own film.

Part of the problem with making a Wonder Woman film is that most people still picture Wonder Woman as Lynda Carter, the actress who played the character in a television show in the 1970s, Freeman said.

In addition, Hollywood might be more hesitant to make superhero movies starring women considering the few that have been made, like “Elektra” and “Catwoman,” were critical and commercial flops.

Cinq-Mårs has another theory regarding the lack of women-led superhero movies: “Society is still fearful of strong

Illinois Valley Living

female characters,” he said. “In my personal opinion, a lot of it has to do with gender roles and gender role training to our children.”

Although women characters haven’t done well in movies, in comics they have fared much better.

“Feminism is another very big trend (in comics),” Cinq-Mårs said.

For instance, there’s now a woman Thor. And even more surprisingly, it has been an unpredictable hit.

“So many people complained Thor was now going to be a woman,” he said.

“When it came out though, it was a smash hit. I literally sold out of it within an hour.”

The good news for comic book fans — male or female — is the popularity of these movies has made it more socially acceptable to admit to being a comic book reader.

The days of hiding your comic book stashes from your friends for fear of ridicule are over.

Cinq-Mårs credits that change, in part, to television shows that have made role models out of traditionally nerdy characters, like Sheldon from “The Big Bang Theory.”

Along with becoming cooler, the target audience for comic books has evolved over the years.

“Traditionally, a comic was considered to be a kid’s thing,” Cinq-Mårs said. “It’s

Illinois Valley Living

not just for kids anymore.”

In fact, many parents wouldn’t allow their young children to read the story lines in today’s comics.

“It’s a lot edgier, a lot more violence.

It’s more sexual. Also the story lines are more graphic, more bold,” Cinq-Mårs said about modern comics. “The idea of what a comic is has been revolutionized.”

With the darker story lines, character development has also matured. Most heroes used to have a firm sense of right and wrong, and the stories had a clear cut good guy and an unmistakable villain.

Today, villains often have a softer side or, at least, more of a back story to illustrate what tragic circumstances in their past has made them the way they are.

“You have certain characters who walk the line. We are definitely seeing more gray characters,” Cinq-Mårs said.

Freeman doesn’t mind characters, like Batman, who sometimes blur the line between right and wrong. What he does mind, however, is Hollywood taking liberties with characters who are known for their strong moral compass. Take for instance, “Man of Steel,” the 2013 movie about Superman. In that movie, Superman purposely kills General Zod. “Superman doesn’t kill,” Freeman said, adding that’s a sentiment many of his customers share. “It bothers all of them around here.”

Steve Freeman, owner of Metropolis Comics, ranks top movies and performances Best superhero movies

1. “Guardians of the Galaxy” 2. “Batman: Dark Knight Returns” (animated) 3. “Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox” (animated) 4. “Marvel’s The Avengers” 5. “The Incredible Hulk” (2008, with Edward Norton)

Best hero performances

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Patrick Stewart as Professor X Hugh Jackman as Wolverine Famke Janssen as Jean Grey Christian Bale as Batman Ron Perlman as Hellboy

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Heath Ledger as the Joker Ian McKellen as Magneto Tom Hiddleston as Loki Cesar Romero as the Joker Julie Newmar as Catwoman

Best villain performances

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1,337 points and a lifetime of basketball DOUG VERONDA TO BE INDUCTED TO THE ILLINOIS BASKETBALL COACHES ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME Story and photos by Dixie Schroeder

T

he first time Granville resident Doug Veronda knew he loved sports was in sixth grade.

“Well, it was sixth-grade basketball at Hopkins,” Veronda said. “The way the coaches treated me. They apparently saw something in me. That pushed me. With having my father around, he also pushed me.”

Veronda grew up in a sports-laden environment at his home with his parents, Ray and Donna Veronda. Doug lived, breathed and ate sports, playing some and watching many others on TV, however, the competitiveness drew him to basketball.

As he entered Putnam County High School (PCHS) in 1983, his talent was apparent to everyone around him. Ed Swingle was his first coach during his freshman year, but Veronda wasn’t there for long. Doug was pulled up to varsity his first year of high school and learned the ropes under then varsity coach Dave Mead. Even at his adult height of 6 foot, 5 inches, life on the varsity team was daunting.

“It was very nerve wracking. I can’t even explain how I felt. I mean I was intimidated. Even for my size, I was intimidated playing with the Suarez boys from DePue, and going to Marquette, there was a foreign exchange student who was 7 foot tall,” Veronda said.

Veronda quickly adjusted to the challenges of varsity basketball at PCHS. His sophomore year saw him averaging 14.2 points a game. In his junior year, his average grew to 19.4 points per game, and by his senior year he was averaging 21.8 points per game with 10 rebounds.

His career basketball stats were impressive: Total points - 1,337; total rebounds - 740; total blocked shots - 210; field goal percentage - 64. Doug is second to only to Carlton Fay on the all-time scoring list at Putnam County High School.

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Doug Veronda looks over career memorabilia at his home in Granville. Veronda’s father went to every game and kept statistics on his basketball career. The former Putnam County coach will be inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame on May 2 in Normal.

Throughout his high school career he earned a multitude of honors, and today, he can add membership in the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association (IBCA) Class A North team, where he played in 1987. He was inducted into the PCHS Hall of Fame in 2014.

Veronda is quick to credit his teammates with making his job on the court easier.

“I had a great team with Rob Whitney, Dale Schorn, Mike Pletsch, Damon Carr, Trent Griffith, Matt Pomato. They made my job easier,” he said.

He also gives a nod to his dad as one of his biggest supporters.

“He kept the stats for all my games and would review each game with me. At the end of each season, we would sit down and he would tell me, ‘You have got to do better your sophomore year, then your junior year and so on and so on,’” Veronda said.

Illinois Valley Living

With all the accolades as a player, he worked as an adult to give that back. He started coaching freshman basketball at PCHS and worked as an assistant coach under John Slingsby for 17 years.

“I have always had that love for basketball. I coached my son, Cody, in fifth and sixth grade ... an opening came up for freshman coach, so I went to school and got my coaching certificate,” he said.

Veronda had to give up coaching when his first wife, Pam, became ill and passed away. However, he had definitely made his mark on Putnam County sports.

Hopkins High School graduate Fran Aimone processed the paperwork to nominate Veronda for the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Veronda will be inducted on May 2 in Normal.

Veronda had made his mark on Illinois basketball legend Chuck Rolinski of Toluca. His senior year contest against Toluca had Veronda scoring 31 points, had 12 rebounds and eight blocks. From that point on, Rolinski was a fan.

Bruce Firchau, chairman of the Hall of Fame Committee for the IBCA said, “He had a huge supporter in Chuck Rolinski who spoke very highly of him.”

“As a player that didn’t really move on in the basketball field, to me it’s an honor to even be inducted. I’ve seen some of the guys that are being inducted ... I guess I’m very blessed,” Veronda said.

Illinois Valley Living

Veronda prides himself on saving some of the old newspaper and other mementos from the past. While he was a stand-out player, he’s quick to give credit to his teammates for his success. Area basketball legend Chuck Rolinski was a big fan of Veronda in high school, according to Bruce Firchau, chairman of the Hall of Fame Committee.

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We the people Interesting facts about Daniel Boone, a frontier hero and pioneer

Meet the author H

i! My name is Logan Serpette. I hope you like this edition of Cool Kids’ Corner featuring jokes, facts, puzzles and more.

You can reach me at coolkidscorner@outlook.com.

In my free time when I’m not working, I usually build Legos or play electronics. I like many sports, except for volleyball.

I love reading, especially chapter books. I like any kind of paranormal or mystery stories. Those are my favorite ones.

I have a little sister named Lexi and a big sister, Mandy.

I also have a cousin named Emerson that is like a brother to me. I am in fourth grade

at Henry-Senachwine Grade School.

I think we should celebrate being a kid!

Amazing anecdotes A boy walks into a restaurant with his pet lion. He asks the waiter, “Do you serve zoo keepers?”

“Yes, we serve everyone,” the waiter replies.

“Okay,” the boy says. “An orange juice for me, and a zoo keeper for the lion.”

••• A teacher writes 2x5 on the board. She tells the class, “On the count of three, answer immediately.

“One, two, three,” the teacher said.

“Immediately,” the class answers.

• Daniel Boone lived from 1734 to 1820.

• Daniel hated being indoors.

• He could chop firewood at age 5.

• Daniel had lots of nicknames. He was known as the “Great Pathfinder.”

• Daniel liked to read.

• He moved around quite a bit, living in Pennsylvania, Virginia, Kentucky and Missouri.

• In 1784, Daniel was made famous by the book, “The Adventures of Col. Daniel Boon.” The book’s title misspelled his last name.

• He rescued his daughter from kidnappers.

• Daniel was shot in the ankle once, but he survived.

• In 1799, the Boone family moved to Missouri because they felt crowded in Kentucky, which had become more settled.

• Like in the other places he lived, Daniel had a hard life in Missouri. He hurt his hand in a steel trap, and all three of his daughters died of disease.

• Daniel died of natural causes on Sept. 26, 1820. His last words were “I’m going now. My time has come.”

LOL jokes Q. What do you call Superman when he’s hungry?”

A. Supperman.

••• Q. Why did the firefly get bad grades in school?

A. He wasn’t bright.

••• Q. Why do thermometers go to school?

A. To earn their degrees.

SUBSCRIBE and enjoy home delivery of

Living Illinois Valley

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Call (815) 875-4461 or customerservice@illinoisvalleyliving.com

Illinois Valley Living

Yum yum recipes Here’s an easy recipe for you to try

Royal chocolate treats 1/2 cup chocolate chips 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/8 cup coconut

1 tablespoon shortening * You will also need fun-shaped molds for this recipe

Melt chocolate chips and shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt 30 seconds at a time, so it doesn’t burn. Stir every 30 seconds. It took three times in the microwave to melt my chocolate and shortening.

Working quickly, stir coconut and vanilla into the chocolate. Spoon into molds. Refrigerate the molds until the chocolate becomes hard. When it is set, you can pop the chocolate out of the molds and eat. If you don’t like coconut, you can leave it out of the recipe. You could add mini marshmallows (melt those in the microwave and stir into chocolate) or citrus zest instead. If you don’t use coconut in this recipe, you can pour the chocolate into the molds instead of spooning it.

Jumble mumble

Can you unscramble these words?

Hint: Think about things related to Easter.

1. ignrsp ______________________________ 2. geg ______________________________ 3. aseter ______________________________ 4. byunn ______________________________

5. dieh ______________________________ 6. kese _____________________________ 7. esrptsne _____________________________ 8. tedexic ______________________________

Jumble mumble answers: 1. spring; 2. egg; 3. Easter; 4. bunny; 5. hide; 6. seek; 7. presents; and 8. excited.

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What do Gypsy and Julius Caesar have in common?

They’re both coming to Festival 56 this summer!

You’ll LOVE our 2015 lineup!

Season subscriptions available NOW! Box Office: 815-879-5656 On the web: www.festival56.com 43

Are you up for the MudCross Challenge?

PROCEEDS WILL BENEFIT PERRY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL AUXILARY Story and photo by Goldie Currie Photos contributed

A

never-before kind of event is coming to Bureau County this summer.

Perry Memorial Hospital Auxiliary will host the first-ever MudCross Challenge on Saturday, Aug. 8, at the Sunset Ridge Moto-Cross Track in Walnut.

Participants of the challenge will encounter a variety of physical obstacles, testing their agility and competitive wild side.

While the event may sound intense for some, the challenge is geared for people of all ages with a special course designed just for kids.

Scott Hartman, a member of the PMH Auxiliary, is no stranger to running obstacle course races and was the one to give the auxiliary the idea to host this challenge as a fundraiser.

Hartman completed his first obstacle course race two years ago when his brother-in-law introduced him to the run.

Today, he’s got about 12 races under his belt.

“I always liked working out and being active, but I really hated running road races. They are just too long and boring, so doing one of these sounded kind of interesting to me,” he said.

With his experience, Hartman is sure this new event will satisfy anyone interested in a little challenge, a little mud and lots of fun.

“I am amazed at the popularity,” he said, referring to the races. “I have seen literally all kinds of people and all different levels of physical fitness at the races.”

Hartman believes the big draw for most is the sense of accomplishment people get at the finish line — regardless of whether it took them 45 minutes or three hours to complete.

“Running these races as a team or in groups is also extremely popular,” he said.

“By running in a group, the more athletic people may not achieve as fast of a time, but they are able to really help everyone in the group achieve the common goal of finishing.”

Hartman assured while obstacle course races tend to attract the competitive spirit,

44

Above, Perry Memorial Hospital Auxiliary members in charge of organizing Bureau County’s first-ever MudCross Challenge include Missy Jesse (front row, from left), Celia Goers and Jan Pistole, Carla Beaber (middle row), Scott Hartman and Bob Pistole and Kyle Burrows in the back row. Not pictured are Zac Heward and Karen Russell. Bob and Jan Pistole are also owners of the Sunset Ridge Moto-Cross Track in Walnut, which is where the race will take place on Saturday, Aug. 8. the competition doesn’t have to be against other races.

“Sometimes I am competing just to finish the course or to finish a little faster than I did last year,” he said. “Of course there are always competitive people that are pushing themselves to the limit, but I have also seen people never run a step.

They are there for the fun and camaraderie and could care less how long it takes them to finish.”

The MudCross Challenge will feature a three- to four-mile muddy obstacle course that will involve walking, climbing, crawling and sliding, and yes, of course, mud.

“Until now, there hasn’t been anything like this locally,” Hartman said. “I believe it’s really going to be a new and exciting event for this area, and it will benefit a great cause. Most of all though, I think

people are going to find it’s really a run to go out and get all muddy.”

For more information or to register, visit www.mudcrosschallenge.com.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Perry Memorial Hospital Auxiliary,

Illinois Valley Living

which provides financial assistance to purchase new medical equipment, patient care equipment, as well as furniture and updates for common patient and family areas.

The auxiliary has also awarded thousands of dollars in scholarships every year to Bureau County citizens pursuing health care careers.

At left and above, Scott Hartmann, a member of PMH Auxiliary, participates in the Spartan Race, which has been an inspiration in the planning of the upcoming MudCross Challenge event. .

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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Illinois Valley Living Journal

By Terri Simon Photo by Kath Clark

A

huge bleeding heart bush grows under the pines in my backyard.

It started out as a small twig-like plant, given by a friend, and throughout the past several years, it has grown to what I consider mammoth proportions. It’s beautiful in the spring, and quite frankly, even though most bleeding heart plants wither and die in the summer heat, this particular bleeding heart graces my backyard until Jack Frost arrives in the late fall.

I’m always impressed with this plant — aside from its seasonal longevity, I am often mesmerized by the dainty blooms you see in this fabulous photo. While the plant does come in different colors, the pink ones (like the ones in my yard) are my favorite. When a gentle spring breeze causes the heart-shaped flowers to flutter, I can almost see these bleeding hearts beating ... seemingly coming to life before my eyes.

The tales and folklore surrounding bleeding hearts are many — most involve unrequited love that is lost or not recognized until it’s too late. The most wellknown tale speaks of a Japanese prince who gave his beloved several gifts which she rejected. At a loss for how he could impress the woman he loved, he took his own life. The story goes on to point out different aspects of the bleeding heart bloom resemble the gifts he gave. It’s said the bleeding heart sprouted in the same place the prince stabbed himself — at which time, the woman realized her true love for the man who was no more ...

Maybe it’s that tale that tugs at my own heartstrings, but most likely, the more important aspect of the bleeding heart in my world is the tiny precious gift Mother Nature bestows upon me every year.

A bleeding heart ... a token of her kind nature. Every year I study the small flowers in awe, and I feel my own heart start to smile at the realization of how small miracles tend to resemble our own lives.

Funny ... I’ve had people refer to me as a bleeding heart — someone who tends to be somewhat soft-hearted, especially when it comes to certain situations. For me those situations revolve around those who are often considered underdogs, the less fortunate, the homeless. It also rings true for me when it comes to animals, those who aren’t able to speak for themselves. I don’t mind being called a bleeding heart. In the scope of life, there are far worse titles, don’t you think?

But back to that beautiful little flower that lives in so many of our Midwest-

46

ern yards. As spring progresses through our own personal worlds, I hope you’ll take the time to notice the little things bestowed upon us each year at this wondrous time. To me, the signs of spring are humbling. They help me put life into perspective. They often cause my heart

to skip a beat or two ... perhaps that’s the reason I take comfort in the beauty of the bleeding heart.

Illinois Valley Living Editor Terri Simon is an award winning journalist, columnist and photographer. She can be reached at tsimon@bcrnews.com.

Illinois Valley Living

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