Illinois Valley Living - Summer 2020

iving L Summer 2020

magazine

STEP THROUGH TIME 100 years of Perry Memorial Hospital

PLUS:

Movie Theater Popcorn — a pandemic essential n May’s Flying Service — Princeton’s one-time airport n 5 Summer Recipes ­— seasonal delights n

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Living magazine

Got that summer feeling elcome to the summer of 2020 and my first magazine W edition as the new editor. Things

look and feel a little different this year.

There’s no secret there.

The summer calendar isn’t filled with all the traditional festivals, fairs and get-togethers due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But, believe me, there is still plenty to be thankful for

and look forward to in the coming months.

While choosing the cover for this magazine, I looked back to last year’s summer edition.

We featured fireworks, because what says summer better than a grand display on the Fourth of July? Firework displays, for the most part, have been canceled throughout the Illinois Valley this year. So, I turned to the next best thing. Something that can’t be taken away from us.

Something that can still wow us and take our breath away. Sunsets. Illinois Valley has got to be home to some of the most beau-

tiful summer evening sunsets.

Don’t believe me? Make a point to take an evening ride through the countryside this summer and see for yourself.

I hope you enjoy the stories we’ve selected for you this season. Whether you’re looking for a new summer recipe, curious about how Apollo Theater got their essential popcorn going this spring or just as intrigued as we are about Perry Memorial Hospital’s 100-year history, we’ve compiled it all here for you.

— Goldie Rapp, associate editor, Illinois Valley Living magazine

contents What’s Popping 5

Essential Popcorn Fridays keep small town theater going during COVID-19.

Living magazine Bureau County Republican 526 S. Bureau Valley Pkwy., Ste. F Princeton, IL 61356 815-875-4461 Publisher Dan Goetz Associate Editor Goldie Rapp Advertising Director Jeanette Smith

jmsmith@shawmedia.com

May’s Flying Service 7 A piece of history remembered.

A Tribute to 100 Years 10

Perry Memorial Hospital is celebrating 100 years this summer.

Princeton Rotary Park 14

Princeton Rotary Club adopts park to commemorate 100 years.

Summer Recipes 17

The flavors of the season are in full swing.

Writers Kevin Hieronymus Bill Lamb Goldie Rapp Kim Shute Photographers Kevin Hieronymus Goldie Rapp Kim Shute Cover Photo Mike Vaughn Designer Liz Klein Published by: est. 1851

Living magazine

Summer 2020 – 3

Even when face-to-face visits are limited, preventative HealthE-Conversations still matter.

HealthE-Visits Now Available Talking with Perry Memorial health providers has never been easier. That’s right, our team is standinAg by to talk with you on the phone or by video to help you manage your health from home. We’ll meet virtually now, then we’ll schedule a face-to-face later! Virtual HealthE-Visits are available for both existing and new patients. Let’s keep the conversations going. Schedule your HealthE-Visit today.

For more information call us at (815) 875-4531

Visit perrymemorial.org/healthEvisit to learn more.

4 – Summer 2020

Living magazine

What’s popping Essential Popcorn Fridays keep small town theater going during COVID-19

By Kevin Hieronymus Popcorn and theaters have been a staple of family entertainment for generations. You just can’t go to the movies without getting popcorn.

When the 2020 coronavirus pandemic shutdown the Apollo Theater in Princeton and thousands like it nationwide, the popcorn became the bread and butter for Princeton’s Jay Schneider.

He instituted Essential Popcorn Fridays at the Apollo Theater, making large bags available to those who were craving the tasty treat. To say it went over well at the start would be an understatement.

Schneider was overwhelmed with orders over the phone and could hardly keep up with the high demand. The first couple weeks, Schneider said they popped up and sold about 150 bags a night.

He had no idea selling just popcorn would go over so big.

“I had absolutely no idea

on how many we would sell. I thought, ‘Oh if we sell 50, that would be a great number,’” he said.

“I always say we are a candy store with entertainment. That we can sell just popcorn and that amount, that’s just crazy.”

The popcorn sales, Schneider said, “helps us pay our bills and keep the lights on.”

He has gone to online orders to better handle the demand.

The bags of popcorn are the equivalent of four buckets that are sold at the theater for $5.50 a bucket, making the bags a $2 deal.

“It’s exactly four buckets worth.

I didn’t want to false advertise anything, so I measured my scoops,” Schneider said.

Schneider, a German native who bought the Apollo in 2009 after moving to his wife’s (Lara) hometown, joked he would like to take praise for the idea of selling just popcorn.

“There’s theaters doing it around the country. Even the name (Essential Popcorn Friday)

was suggested by one of our customers,” he said.

While the Apollo will deliver the popcorn to your front door, he said most people will come to pick it up. Schneider has found there to be popcorn connoisseurs all around Bureau County, including Princeton and surrounding communities.

“We’re very grateful for all the support,” he said.

Schneider said he definitely plans to keep selling popcorn on movie nights whenever they open their doors. When that happens, he’s just not sure.

“Movie theaters in Illinois are in Phase 4. Looks like June 26 is the first time we could open,” he said.

Schneider plans to open that date, but he’s not sure. There’s no new movies available they could play as the movie industry pushed their releases back, because of the pandemic.

“Even when we open, it’s going to be a struggle, especially for small theaters,” he said.

But there will be the popcorn.

Left: Lara Schneider and her daughter Uli, 9, load up a bag of popcorn for the Apollo Theater’s Essential Popcorn Friday night. The popcorn sales helped the Schneiders offset the shutdown of their theater during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Schneiders have owned the Apollo since 2009. Photography by Kevin Hieronymus Center: Apollo’s marquee advertises Essential Popcorn Friday on Princeton’s Main Street. Online orders were established quickly to help manage the high demand for popcorn. Submitted photo Right: The size of one Apollo Essential Popcorn bag is the equivalent of four buckets sold at the theater. Owner Jay Schneider measures each scoop to be fair to his customers. Submitted photo

Living magazine

Summer 2020 – 5

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Living magazine

The plane purchased by the Princeton Club in 1939 with Melvin May (left) Art Kahn (center) Walter May (right).

A soar back to May’s Flying Service

T

“There are old pilots and there are bold pilots, but there are no old, bold pilots!”

This bit of wisdom has been axiomatic among aviators since Orville Wright wobbled into the air over Kitty Hawk in 1903.

Melvin May, a Princeton native, was always interested in flying, and in 1939, he and a group of 12 young men formed a flying club and purchased a new Piper Cub J3 trainer, powered with a 50 h.p. Franklin engine.

The 12 men were Hi Piper, Tommy Ioder, Otto Bouxsein, Melvin May, Walter May, Randy Peterson, Dr. Hartley, Leo Lenihan, Len Swanson, W. Wedding, Joe Moran and Marvin May. The J3 Piper Cub had no brakes or tail wheel. Melvin took instructions from a flight instructor in the plane from LaSalle and soloed on his 31st birthday July 14, 1939.

The first airport hangar was built out of old barn wood and erected just north of CityCounty Park, north of Princeton. They had talked a local farmer into letting them have an unused field for a landing

By Bill Lamb strip. This wasn’t a particularly generous gesture by the farmer, for the field was so small that sparrows had to slip into it to avoid over-shooting the field.

The young pilots of the flapless, brakeless, Cub plane had an even tougher time in landing and taking off.

But with the confidence of youth, a little skill and a great deal of luck, they learned to fly without killing themselves or even scratching their airplane.

In time, most of the original 12 men began to drift away from flying, but the aviation bug had bitten Melvin more deeply and he was a seasoned pilot when America plunged into war in December 1941.

Melvin immediately signed-up for the Civilian Pilot Training Program and was sent to Ft. Sill, Okla., to join the staff assigned to teach the third group of student aviators turned out by the Army Ground Forces in World War II. In 1942, he took a refresher course at Ft. Sill and started instructing Aug. 28, 1941. He was commissioned Second Lt. in March 1943 and rated a liaison pilot at Waco, Tx.

In 1943, Melvin then accepted a direct commission in the field artillery and remained at Ft. Sill as a flight instructor until the war ended in 1945. Flying time was built-up slowly, and by 1942, he had logged a total of 250 hours with no mishaps. May signed-up for a commercial pilot’s course under the Civil Pilot Training Program at Springfield Aviation Company and received his commercial pilot’s license in July 1942.

During his tour at Ft. Sill, Piper Airport he attended a basic instrument and night flying course at Goodfellow Field in San Angelo, Tx. Melvin was instructor at the army sea plane base on Lake Lawtonka and was checked-out on the Brodie Landing System.

Upon leaving the service in July 1945, Melvin decided to start a flying school in PrincSee May’s page 8

PHOTOS BILL LAMB COLLECTION, BUREAU COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

Living magazine

Summer 2020 – 7

May’s

Melvin in 1946.

Elmo Salsman joined the Mays and was chief FROM PAGE 7 instructor in 1951. When Melvin left, Elmo was their eton. He rented the Piper Airport from which he operinstructor. ated as May’s Flying Service. He was joined in 1946 by There was never any his brother, Marvin, who was an A. and E. mechanic. major mishap in the air They operated this business around Princeton, but service jointly until January there were several emer1951, when Melvin returned gencies with some minor to Ft. Sill as a civilian flight damage to the aircraft, instructor. Several Bureau but they usually landed County members of the Army Melvin May with Stearman without any trouble. They Air Corps already had pubbiplane at Goodfellow Field weren’t charged against licly expressed the wish that San Angelos, Tex., U.S. their record as an accident an airport be constructed in Army Air Corps. unless it cost a considerthe county. One or two civic groups in Princeton appointed able amount of money to repair it. airport committees to investiFrom Ft. Sill, Okla., May moved to Ft. Rucker in 1954, gate the possibilities of building where he remained the rest of his military career. He Marvin and Walter May an airfield in this area. retired in 1971.

R.J. Piper didn’t wait for the with Cessna 172.

After a year of teaching cross country navigation in committee to get underway, however, but quietly went ahead with his own construc- L-19s and L-20s, he became intrigued with the new fantion plans. The field was laid May’s Flying Service, out a gled helicopters, and at the post-adolescent age of 47, he learned to fly them. His job was to teach new instructor mile east of Princeton. The hanger was built, and it was pilots and to fly periodic check rides with the assigned not long after that the field became “official” with introinstructors. duction of qualified instruction.

Melvin was ideally fitted for this role. He was reThe airport was destine to become the local aviation center for flying enthusiasts. More enthusiastic than ever spected by students and the oldest pros alike for his all-around professionalism and his never-failing ability to about the future of aviation and the desire of civilians spot and correct pilot faults. to learn to fly, Melvin was anxious to organize a flight Happily for Ft. Rucker, Melvin remained there many training program in his home community of Princeton. years. Therefore, you could expect to see this sprightly He completed arrangements with Mr. Piper to start old gentleman, who looked so much like your favorite public instruction at the Piper Airport. grandfather, climbing into a chopper everyday and comMelvin negotiated for the purchase of his first Piper pletely wearing out a young aviator who was no more Cub plane to be used in training and additional cubs than a third his age. were bought as the need arose for them.

During his 18-and-a-half years in the training establishIn the fall of 1945, organized instruction courses began at Piper Airport, where the public was welcome to ment, Melvin gave over 2,500 check rides and graduated over 450 students. learn to fly light aircraft.

Melvin was chosen by his superiors on several occaIt wasn’t long sions to give rotary wing trainings to VIPs not only from that the aviation the U.S. Army, but from several allied countries. His boom was in full personality and flying ability allowed him to successfully swing. The hangar complete these check-outs and he was often requested was expanded to

by VIPs for more advanced work in different aircraft. take care of addiThe significance of his outstanding flying record can tional planes. be appreciated only when it is understood that these Piper Airport 11,000 flight hours were spent in contact instruction inhad one trainer volving numerous landings and take-offs per-hour. This and one coupe type of flying had an extremely high accident exposure available by trainHangar with planes and motorcycles. rate and Melvin had met this situation with this truly ing purposes, May’s Cycle Shop began in 1946. outstanding record. in addition to a Up to the time he retired in 1971, Melvin was the only Waco cabin plane owned by R.J. Piper, which was for instructor at the U.S. Army Aviation School to obtain passenger flights. Lt. Earl Wolf Jr. was at the airport on over 11,000 accident-free flying hours. Such an achieveSundays to fly passengers in the Piper plane. ment was without parallel in this field and because of Melvin held lessons daily, from dawn to dusk, with the outstanding accomplishment, Melvin deserved and his busiest days being Sundays and Thursdays. The early evening hours also were crammed with appoint- receive appropriate recognition and reward.

It is hard to give a monetary value to his flying rements by local businessmen, who were anxious to close-up their stores at the end of the day and drive to cord, but with the accident rate up to that time then of 20 accidents per 100,000 flying hours and an average the airport for lessons. cost-per-accident of $40,000, Melvin had saved the govSome were receiving their instruction a half-hour at a ernment approximately $100,000. time and others were in the air a full hour daily. Most of The May Flying Service and the hangar and the offices the students were ready after seven or eight hours. Ten hours in the air with the instructor and 30 added hours of was where the thrills and excitement was for many years for the air-minded enthusiasts and we had quite a few. solo flight were required to earn a private pilots license.

Then in January 1951, Melvin returned to Ft. Sill as a OUT OF THE PAST: This “Out of the Past” article by civilian flight instructor on fixed wing aircraft. Marvin Bill Lamb, with accompanying photos, is provided courMay took over, having received his instructor’s rating tesy of the Bureau County Historical Society, Princeton. shortly after he returned from the service and joined 8 – Summer 2020

Living magazine

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A tribute to Perry Memorial Hospital’s 100 years Perry Memorial Hospital is celebrating 100 years this summer. Its history is rich — one that’s marked by both glory days and times of turmoil. Here’s a walk through Perry’s decades:

1913

renovation. As staff were trained to fundraise, the materials and labor costs for the project skyrocketed Perry’s husband dies leaving the remainder of and the cost of the entheir assets, more than $50,000, for the creation tire project doubled. The hospital failed to raise sufficient funds of a hospital. The Perry assets back then were equivalent to for a new wing. more than $1 million in today’s terms.

A public referendum went out to voters asking whether Perry should become part of a hospital City of Princeton passes an ordinance for the establishment and maintenance of Julia Rackley district that would collect money to help pay for an addition, but voters rejected the idea. Administrator Arnold Walter and Perry Memorial Hospital. the board decided to use the money to renovate as much of the A public vote led the decision to purchase the for- hospital as it could with the money staff and the board were mer Princeton Hospital property on Park Avenue able to raise two years prior.

East for $4,711, which is the location of where the hospital stands today.

A small addition was built on to the hospital’s east wing to accommodate 16 more patients, but it didn’t solve the overcrowding issues.

June 17, the hospital opens it doors to patients. The two-story building On average 98 percent of hospital beds were occonnected by way of a ramp to cupied each day. the former hospital house, could hold 28 patients and five babies. It Perry Memorial Hospital again asked for commucontained the latest equipment in the operating room and x-ray nity support to erect a new wing. This time, they department. Nurse Kathryn Pond ran the day-to-day operations raised $300,000. Construction started with the demolition of of the hospital until 1925. the original Princeton Hospital house.

Julia Rackley Perry, a Malden native, bequeathed $25,000 to the city of Princeton with the provision to plan a public hospital in Princeton within the following five years.

1915 1916

1952

1917 1920

1954 1955 1957

1931

1959

1939

1960s

A need for more rooms become urgent. An east The new addition was completed, but new regulawing was built on at a cost of $45,000. It included tions were making the other wings in the hospital space for an additional 13 beds and seven bassinets for babies. unusable as fire codes become more strict.

Space again was an issue at the hospital, which forced the need to build a west wing onto the original building, adding nine new beds, new operating rooms, preparatory rooms, an x-ray room, laboratory and other needed space.

1940s

Amidst a growing staff, a widening range of services, increasing expenses and new government regulations, it became apparent that managing the hospital would require more than a nurse supervisor. The city began to re-evaluate the organization of the hospital.

1947

The hospital board again decided to pursue community fundraising to construct a new wing. In addition to funds raised by the community, Perry’s leadership was able secure grants and the city sold bonds so that the hospital could borrow money for the project. A three-story building was constructed with an unfinished third floor, which could be completed at a later date when more funds were available.

Princeton City Council voted to change the leadership structure of the hospital. A board of directors The third floor of the 60s addition was completed, was appointed. The first members included Watson Lawton, but most of the space was meant for patient care, Robert Zearing and Celia Diller. Their first task was to hire a not offices. Administrator Hal hospital administrator and auditor.

Autry came up with the idea to build a large office buildThe hospital auxiliary formed with 66 members. ing onto the hospital that Mrs. Abbie Jean Gunning was elected as the first would allow space for visiting president. The auxiliary gathered funds through membership specialty physicians, which fees and donations, using the money to purchase equipment would mean better care withor to help with facility improvements. Gunning opened the out having to travel to a larger hospital. The Medical Office Building was completed two years hospital’s first gift shop in 1953. later and attracted Princeton Family Physicians, and dozens of Following WWII, people had more money and specialty services from area groups and hospitals, which conmedicine had advanced to be able to treat more tinue to serve the community today. illnesses and perform more surgeries. For much of the 50s, the hospital was nearly fully occupied or sometimes completely The hospital had space for nearly 200 patients. occupied. The hospital board pursued a $350,000 addition and The hospital continued to stay at the forefront

1976

1948 1950

1980s

10 – Summer 2020

Living magazine

2005

It was time to focus on the services that the community truly relied on, such as the laboratory, radiology and the emergency department. A $6.5 million multiphase construction and renovation plan was put into action.

2009 2012

The multi-phase construction plan was complete, giving the hospital the look it has today.

Less than 100 births took place at the hospital and more than half were from Medicaid patients.

With limited bed space, fewer births and a lower reimbursement from Medicaid, it was no longer viable to staff a 24/7 of technology, ever seeking the latest technology and practices. delivery room. The delivery room closed in 2013.

As much as the first 40 years of the hospital were full of challenges, the next 20 years were filled with growth and success.

The hospital began to take a more active role in Year after year, the hospital posted a positive bottom line, rural patient care, starting with the acquisition of Princclinics opened in LaMoille, Walnut, Manlius and Sheffield, as eton Family Physicians. The clinic became Perry Memorial well as the Princeton Pediatric Center. Services such as Perry Family Health Clinic. Over the next five years, another eight Home Medical Supply and Perry Memorial Hospital Linen Ser- providers were added to the staff. The clinic moved into a new vices offered cost-effective ways to serve the ordinary hospital space across the street this year, with modern patient-centered needs while supporting other clinics and healthcare organi- families and room for growth. zations. An addition to the 1969 hospital increased space for surgeries and outpatient procedures. The Gold Coat volunteer The hospital opened new clinics in Walprogram also opened an opportunity for the community to supnut and Henry. port patients, visitors and staff on a day-to-day basis.

The Wound Care Clinic opened to fill a major The hospital began hosting free screenings community need and Dr. Gary Hoelle’s podiatry for things like cholesterol or prostate cancer. clinic was also acquired.

Classes for diabetes and prenatal care started to fill major community needs. In addition to events, the hospital began to pursue a new strategy of collaboration. Area health organizations began working closely with Perry’s staff to increase the scope of their services.

2014

2016-17 2018

1990s 1992

The Perry Memorial Hospital Foundation came to fruition, adding another avenue for community outreach and fundraising. The hospital also joined the Princeton Rotary and Chamber of Commerce, and continued to find new ways to give back to the community.

Late 1990s

Even as the hospital gained momentum and continued to expand, Hospital leadership recognized the challenge the national trends were starting to shift. Advances in medical organization would continue to face by working knowledge were changing healthcare, hastened by Medicare as an independent community hospital. The hospital board and Medicaid. The focus of healthcare was shifting from treat- of directors and the Princeton City Council entered into parting illness to preventing illnesses. nership discussions with OSF HeathCare in Peoria, who can provide the resources needed for another 100 of community Perry’s bed capacity had reduced to less than 80. healthcare.

The average length of stay was dropping and many services could be done without any stay at all. Medicare and Medicaid programs started to toughen their requirements and reduce their reimbursements, hurting rural hospitals across the country.

2019

1999

Early 2000s

At the turn of the century, changes in compliance and billing for state and federal regulations forced staff to scramble.

Cuts to Medicare and Medicaid began hitting harder than ever.

The hospital faced significant financial losses for the first time since the 1940s. A period of downsizing occurred. Management position were eliminated, outlying clinics were closed and staff began fearing for their jobs.

2004

Perry became a Critical Access Hospital, which allowed more funding for the hospital, but meant certain requirements and quality measures had to be put in place, such as a 24/7 emergency care and keeping the average inpatient stay less than eight days. Perry also had to reduce to a total bed occupancy of 25.

Information and photos courtesy of Perry Memorial and Bureau County Historical Society.

Living magazine

Summer 2020 – 11

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 former 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 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: Associate Editor Goldie Rapp P.O. Box 340, Princeton, IL 61356.

Nominations will be accepted until 5 p.m., August , 2020.

For questions or more information, contact Goldie at 815-875-4461, ext. 6335.

SM-PR1788465

12 – Summer 2020

Living magazine

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 in the fall. Date and location to be announced.

Please fill out this form completely (use additional paper if necessary) and return by August 3, 2020. Additional forms can be downloaded by visit www.bcrnews.com.

Today’s date:__________________________________________ Education:

A. Nominee’s Personal Information Name ___________________________________________________________ Organization/company/corp. _______________________________________ Title_____________________________________________________________ Phone ___________________________________________________________ City of residence __________________________________________________ Email

__________________________________________________________

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

Presenting Sponsor

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Living magazine

Summer 2020 – 13

Left: The Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad caboose adorns the park. The Princeton Rotary Club has plans to refurbish the caboose when funds become available. Center: Princeton Rotary Park is located on the north end of Princeton near the railroad tracks. Right: Development of the park occurred in 1976 as part of the city’s bicentennial project. That year, a time capsule was placed in the park. It will remain there as Princeton Rotary Club adopts the space.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GOLDIE RAPP

From Darius Miller Park to Princeton Rotary Park Princeton Rotary Club adopts park to commemorate 100 years

By Goldie Rapp Darius Miller Park, located on the north end of Princeton near the railroad tracks, is getting a new name and new caretakers this summer.

For it 100th anniversary, the Princeton Rotary Club has adopted the oneacre park as one way to commemorate the club’s milestone date.

While some may have mixed feelings about changing the name of a park that’s paid tribute to a Princeton man who was once president of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy (CB&Q) Railroad Co., rotarians promise to continue honoring the Darius Miller heritage.

In July, a brick welcome sign will be place in the park that will pay tribute to both Darius Miller and the Princeton Rotary Club.

Michael Stutzke, a Princeton rotarian, said the idea for all of this started when club members began discussing the need for a Welcome to Princeton sign right after the railroad tracks, coming into town.

“I think Princeton is a community people feel good about. We have good people here, there’s good bones in this city and we’re trying to come together and move things forward and get our businesses open and encourage people to come to our community and invest in our community,” he said. “What better way to cross those tracks than to have a sign that welcomes you?”

By adopting the park, the Rotary Club is now committed to keeping the space clean and trimmed up.

When funds become available, the plan is to spruce up the shabby CB&Q caboose, which sits next to the Prince-

Who was Darius Miller?

Darius Miller was a native of Princeton.

He’d graduated from Princeton High School and later became the president of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy (CB&Q) Railroad Co. The railroad donated the park area to the city in honor of Miller after his death.

Currently, the only mention of Darius Miller in the park is an old plaque on a boulder. The Princeton Rotary Club has no plans to remove the boulder. ton railroad tracks in the park.

“By assuming the same Rotary Park, it gives us incentive to keep it looking good,” said Steve Bouslog, longtime Princeton Rotarian and a member of the 100th Anniversary Celebration Committee.

The Princeton City Council gave approval in February for the Rotary Club to adopt and change the name of the park.

Since then, rotarians have raised money for new brick signage.

Princeton Graphics was hired to fabricate the signage, which was designed by a Princeton High School alum, Class of 86. Erickson Masonry is constructing

the brick sign.

The land for the park was gifted to the City of Princeton from the CB&Q Railroad, because Darius Miller was a native of the city and had graduated from Princeton High School. The only stipulation they gave to the city at the time was that the land had to be used as a park. If at any time the city wished to not use the land as a park, it was to be given back to the railroad company. A few years after the land was gifted, the city council decided to name it Darius Miller Park.

Right now, the only recognition of Darius Miller in the park is an old plaque that was placed upon a boulder.

Stutzke said the boulder and plaque will remain where it’s at. The 1976 time capsule in the park will also remain.

The Princeton Rotary Club plans to recognize Darius Miller front and center on the new brick sign coming this summer.

“We’re not losing that heritage of Darius Miller,” Stutzke said.

The park has undergone a lot of changes over the years. In 1976, as part of the city’s bicentennial, a shelter was built in the park, along with an outdoor music pit and water fountain display.

Within the last decade, the pit has been filled in and grassed over, the shelter was removed, the fountains were taken down and cement pathways have been laid to make it a more modern, inviting space for people to enjoy.

A rendering shows what the new signage will look like when it’s completed this summer. The signage pays homage to both Darius Miller and Princeton Rotary Club’s 100th Anniversary.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

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Spring into summer favorites The flavors of the season are in full swing

By Kim Shute Comfort food has its place, but once the warm weather hits, tastes turn to fresher options.

Spring vegetables lend themselves to main and side dishes alike and for many, the grille replaces the oven. While you may have your tried and true favorites, there’s always room to add to your repertoire. Need a few suggestions?

Here’s a few familiar favorites with a new twist.

Quick Pickled Onions

Quick pickled onions are the condiment you didn’t know you were missing. Red onions get a vinegar bath that makes them a perfect topper for sandwiches, tacos and more in just about 20 minutes. A quick pickling mixture gets poured over thinly sliced onions and permeates them with a tart and tangy flavor that will make them your go-to for all your summer dishes.

Alabama White Barbecue Sauce

Alabama White Barbecue Sauce isn’t your typical sugary, red ketchup-based BBQ sauce. Relying on mayo for a base, this sauce has a vinegary, peppery kick that compliments any grilled or smoked meat (and try it on fries, you won’t regret it). It’s easily customizable, too. Love cayenne?

Load it up. Horseradish your favorite? Add another big dollop. The sauce is infinitely customizable and makes a great topping.

Try it on pulled pork or smoked brisket nachos for an out-of-this-world appetizer.

1 cup mayo 1/4 cup white vinegar 1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard 2 teaspoons cream style horseradish 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon paprika Whisk all ingredients together. Refrigerate for up to one week in a sealed jar.

(Courtesy of House of Nash Eats)

Photo: Looking for the perfect accompaniments for your summer barbecue? Look no further than Alabama White BBQ Sauce and quick pickled red onions.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIM SHUTE

Living magazine

1 medium red onion, very thinly sliced ½ cup water ¼ cup distilled white vinegar ¼ cup apple cider vinegar or additional white vinegar 1 ½ tablespoons maple syrup or honey 1 ½ teaspoons fine sea salt ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat) Pack the onions into a 1-pint mason jar or similar heat-safe vessel. Place the jar in the sink to catch any splashes of hot vinegar later. In a small saucepan, combine the water, both vinegars, maple syrup, salt and pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then carefully pour the mixture into the jar over the onions. Use a butter knife or spoon to press the onions down into the vinegar and pop any air bubbles in the jar. Let the pickled onions cool to room temperature (about 20 to 30 minutes), at which point they should be sufficiently pickled for serving. Cover and refrigerate leftover pickled onions for later.

Quick-pickled onions are best consumed within three days, but they keep for two to three weeks in the refrigerator.

1 bunch asparagus, ends trimmed and chopped into 1-inch pieces 1 cup frozen peas, thawed 1 (16 oz) package gnocchi 1 tablespoon olive oil 3-4 cloves garlic, minced ½ yellow onion, chopped ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated 1/3 cup half-and-half ½ lemon, juiced Salt and pepper, to taste Optional: red pepper flakes, garnish Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add gnocchi and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. In a skillet on medium-high heat, add olive oil and onion. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper and sauté until translucent. Add garlic, stirring until fragrant, about one minute. Add chopped asparagus and sauté for between five and seven minutes or until tender. Add peas and gnocchi and cook for two minutes. Pour half-and-half and Parmesan cheese into skillet and stir carefully to coat with cream sauce. Sauce is done when cheese has melted and cream sauce has thickened. Add lemon juice and toss before serving.

(Courtesy of 12 Tomatoes)

Photo: Spring veggie gnocchi is a dish that seamlessly melds fresh, crisp asparagus and peas with cheesy, gooey, pillowy gnocchi. It makes for a quick, easy summer dinner or a side for your favorite grilled meats.

(Courtesy of Cookie and Kate)

Spring Veggie Gnocchi

Spring Vegetable Gnocchi is a perfect marriage of crisp fresh spring asparagus and peas and cheesy, pillowy gnocchi. This dish makes a light yet filling meatless meal and makes a great accompaniment to a grilled main. You can easily substitute other veggies or add a variety to mix it up. This recipes serves four to six people and takes about 20 minutes to prepare.

See Recipes page 18 Summer 2020 – 17

Recipes FROM PAGE 17

Special Rhubarb Cake

The name says it all. This crumbtopped cake spotlights the fresh, tart flavor of rhubarb with a sweet buttery vanilla sauce. Even rhubarb skeptics will find themselves drawn to this dessert (or breakfast, no judgment). Allow the sauce to slightly cool and thicken before serving for the perfect ending to a summer meal.

CAKE 2 tablespoons butter, softened 1 cup sugar 1 egg 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup buttermilk 2 cups chopped fresh or frozen rhubarb

Dalgona Coffee

STREUSEL TOPPING 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup sugar 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Dalgona coffee, for the uninitiated, is a recent social media favorite for its appealing aesthetic, but it’s not new to the coffee world. The whipped drink is infinitely customizable.

Try it with different milks (oat milk is particularly good) or add a dash of flavored extract to take it up a notch. Instant coffee is whipped with a little hot water and sugar to make a creamy, frothy Instagram ready treat.

VANILLA SAUCE 1/2 cup butter, cubed 3/4 cup sugar 1/2 cup evaporated milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Preheat oven to 350°. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk, beating just until moistened. Fold in the rhubarb. Pour into a greased 9-inch square baking dish.

Combine topping ingredients; sprinkle over batter. Bake 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack.

For sauce, melt butter in a saucepan.

Add sugar and milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for two or three minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla. Serve with cake.

(Courtesy of Taste of Home)

2 tablespoons instant coffee 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 2 tablespoons hot water 1 cup milk or non dairy milk In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (or a medium bowl if using a whisk, handheld electric mixer, or milk frother), combine the coffee and sugar.

Add the hot water and immediately whisk on medium-high speed until light, airy and doubled in volume, two to four minutes.

Pour the milk over the ice in a tall glass. Top with whipped mixture and serve immediately.

Photo: A recent social media trend, Dalgona coffee is the perfect treat for those hot summer days. The whipped coffee features a frothy creamy topping that slowly melts into the perfect pick-me-up.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIM SHUTE

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