SVM_Lake Lifestyle_August 2023

Page 1

Also inside ... Meet Lake Carroll’s very own jukebox jurist

Lake Carroll couple helps birds in the market for a home, tweet home

It’s a real family affair in Carroll County

Follow in the hoof-steps of history in this months’ Day Trip

Reader photos

A PUBLICATION PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 440 Sterling, IL 61081 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED AUGUST 2023
LINCOLN L HIGHWAY INTERSECTION

WHY WIRELESS?

JCWIFI vs. FIBER AND CABLE: KEY DIFFERENCES

LATENCY

JCWIFI has lower latency*…no wonder even financial traders prefer wireless

*Latency is the delay that occurs when your computer is talking to other computers/servers; for example, you may experience low or high latency (delay) during an online auction or engaging sports game – not good!

PRICE SUPPORT RELIABILITY

JCWIFI offers low, consistent, no-hidden fee pricing compared to fiber and cable providers’ often inconsistent, add-on pricing

JCWIFI is local with friendly, local tech and customer support — not outsourced like a national company

JCWIFI cannot be physically cut so is less fragile than fiber optics where cut lines can result in long outages

SPEED

JCWIFI uses radio waves that travel at the speed of light so your wireless internet is as fast as the speed of light

2 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 451 West South Street | Freeport, Illinois 61032 | 815.233. 2138 | jcwifi.com
PREMIER INTERNET SERVICES JCWIFI
3 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | March 2023 AUGUST 2023 CONTACT INFO PUBLISHER Jennifer Heintzelman EDITING & PAGE DESIGN Rusty Schrader PUBLISHED BY Sauk Valley Media, 113 S. Peoria Ave. , Dixon, IL 61021 DO YOU HAVE A STORY IDEA FOR LAKE LIFESTYLE? E-mail rschrader@saukvalley.com FOR ADVERTISING ... Contact Jill Reyna at 815-631-8774 or jreyna@saukvalley.com Articles and advertisements in this publication are the property of Sauk Valley Media. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Ad content is not the responsibility of Sauk Valley Media. The information in this magazine is believed to be accurate; however, Sauk Valley Media cannot and does not guarantee its accuracy. Sauk Valley Media cannot and will not be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services provided by advertisers listed in any portion of this magazine. Home Equity Line of Credit made personal Financing Available www.fsbshannon-polo.com

INTERSECTION

LINCOLN
LHIGHWAY 4 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023

The 100th edition of the Women’s Lincoln Highway golf tournament took place July 7 and 8 at Lake Carroll’s golf course, bringing 64 of the best golfers from eight northern Illinois courses together for a chance to be part of the longrunning tournament’s history book, and its list of champions.

For the third consecutive year, Lake Carroll’s top golfers took part in the historical event, but this time it was extra special. Hosting it this year, on a milestone occasion, was a badge of honor for the Lake Carroll women, golfer Deb Scheidegger said.

“We just celebrated our 50th anniversary last year, and this is women’s golf for the last 100 years, which is amazing for women,” Scheidegger said. “It was so nice to host it because I think they really see the camaraderie that everyone has, and the respect that this tournament has. I really think this is a good thing. This is only our third year in it, so it’s been a lot of fun.”

Lake Carroll has been down this road before, but this year was different: This year it became one of the stops on a long highway of golf history, and some of its best golfers were on hand to help celebrate the occasion.
A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 5
Mandy Hinkey of Timber Creek Golf Course in Dixon tees off from hole No. 10 in a playoff for runner-up honors July 8, during the Women’s Lincoln Highway tournament at Lake Carroll. Hinkey, who finished third overall and first in the event’s second flight, is the daughter of Lake Carroll members Rick and Barb Curia of Dixon. CODY CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM

Lake Carroll golf course pro Jason Hill keeps track of scores July 8 during the Women’s Lincoln Highway tournament.

CODY CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM

The event is the oldest best-against-bogey women’s tournament in the nation, as part of northwest Illinois’ premier golf program, with the men facing off the following weekend each year (Lake Carroll does not participate in the men’s event).

Having a home course advantage helped Lake Carroll’s women improve their score from last year’s event, which was at Deer Valley Golf Club in Deer Grove. Lake Carroll finished fourth with a score of +55, with Jo Yeager’s +17 leading the group.

Each team has eight women competing, and the best six final scores among them are used to calculate the team total. Each of the women also compete among one another in flights, where each team’s No. 1 golfer competes against other teams’ top golfer, and so on. Yeager, in her first year competing for Lake Carroll, was her team’s No. 4 golfer, and her score was best among the No. 4 golfers on the other squads, which made her the fourth flight winner.

Yeager’s score tied for tenth among the entire field.

“This is the best I’ve played at Lake Carroll,” Yeager said. “We couldn’t have asked for better weather. It was great. I had great women to play golf with, and that makes it great. So many nice women play in this tournament.”

Sandy Bogusevic (first flight) and Deb Cuvelier (third flight) tied for second among Lake Carroll’s octet, each having finished with +14, while Scheidegger (second flight) scored +9. Lake Carroll’s remaining four golfers finished near or at bogey: Angie Thompson (sixth flight. +1), Sheri Moutrey (seventh flight, 0), Tracey DeCrane (eighth flight, -1) and Jaime Melville (fifth flight, -2).

6 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 Farmers National Bank Ag Lenders Geneseo (309)944-0580 Prophetstown (851)537-2348 Morrison (815)772-3700 EXPERIENCED • RESPONSIVE • TRUSTED www.FARMERSNATIONALBANK.BANK

Scheidegger, Yeager and Cuvelier are veterans of the Lincoln Highway, having competed in years past for other courses long before Lake Carroll became part of the long-running event. Schei degger competed for Rock River Country Club in Rock Falls and then for Timber Creek more than 20 years ago.

When a course backed out of playing in the tournament a few years ago, Lake Carroll was asked to join, but there wasn’t enough interest at that time, Scheidegger said. It took a little convincing, but by 2021 there was enough interest in being part of the tournament and they played in their first tournament that year at Rock River Country Club.

At each tournament, a collection of historical books and pictures are displayed for people to browse through. Among the pictures in that collection: One of the first tournament in 1923. Timber Creek, formerly Dixon Country Club, hosted that year and won the first event, and a young Ronald Reagan served as a caddy for a Dixon golfer.

“It is just a fun format, and you got people from high school kids to grandmothers playing in this,” Scheidegger said. “It’s just a fun tournament. We couldn’t have asked for better weather. That really helps, too, with the weather so nice.”

Yeager and Cuvelier also competed for Timber Creek a couple of decades ago; this year is the first that the both of them competed for Lake Carroll.

“It’s fun being a part of it,” Yeager said. “It’s nice to have it at Lake Carroll because there’s a lot of support here, and there’s a lot of support within the women and they’re eager to help.”

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 7 815-493-2655 www.perduemarine.com • boats@perduemarine.com We Sell Family Fun 24765 Zier Rd., Lanark, IL 61046 - Corner 72 & 73 Zier Rd. (Green Roof) Hours: M-F 9-4; Sat Hours 9-12. Call for an appointment for other times. Pre-owned Boats 2017 Yamaha Jet 19 2006 Bayliner 21’ Merc 5.0, TR. 2005 Hurricane FD202 Merc V-6, TR. THINKING OF A NEW PONTOON? WE NOW HAVE 2024 PONTOONS IN STOCK Check our website
SWEITZER NURSERY,LLC 51 Years In Business 15166 Lovers Spring Rd. • Lanark (815) 493-2434 www.sweitzernursery.com Tim Sweitzer 815-994-2434 • Shade Trees • Fruit Trees • Evergreens • Shrubs • Perennials • Landscape Design • Installation • Lawn Seeding • Mowing • Retaining Walls • Skid Loader Work • Red & Brown Mulch SM-ST2091585 O’Mara Moving & Storage, Inc. Serving Northern IL & Southern WI 815-232-2512 800-501-7145 www.omaramoving.com © 2014 NorthAmerican Van Lines, Inc., ILL MC5095 U.S.D.O.T.#070851 No detail too small, no move is more important. • Dependable, trained, professional personnel • Local, long distance & international moving • Safe and secure storage • Experienced packing & unpacking services
Katie Drew of Timber Creek Golf Course in Dixon was the champion of the 100th edition of the Women’s Lincoln Highway Tournament, held at Lake Carroll. Drew scored +31 in the two-day event. CODY CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM

Participation in the Lincoln Highway tournament gives golfers and golf courses a place in what has become a storied history of competition and bragging rights among one another.

Some of those who have taken a swing at it have gone on to achieve more mainstream success in later years, while a select few managed to make a name for themselves before winning their first Lincoln Highway.

About 2,000 men and women have tried their hand at etching their names not only in the tournament’s prestigious history, but also on the trophies they hope to bring home. There’s quite a story to tell of the tournament’s history, and it all starts with members of six golf courses who sought to expand interest in the game throughout the region ...

The tournament is named after the historic highway that runs through the area, itself named after Abraham Lincoln. The “original six” clubs were Clinton Country Club in Clinton, Iowa, Dixon Country Club, Edgewood Golf Club in Polo, Kishwaukee Country Club in DeKalb, Morrison Country Club, and Rock River Country Club in Rock Falls. The first meeting to lay out its structure took place Nov. 28, 1922, at the Nachusa House in Dixon.

Scoring is different than the national mainstream professional tournaments. Instead of the widely known stroke play concept, the tournament uses a best-against-bogey format to help erase some of the moments where certain holes may take their toll on golfers — in other words, the scoring isn’t as bad if it takes an large number of strokes to finish.

Most golfers in the tournament join their Lincoln Highway team through a qualifier event on their course; other courses either select participants or have a sign-up sheet at their clubhouse. The men’s event has six golfers on a squad, and the women have eight; for women’s team scoring, the best six scores are used to determine a champion. The event is unique in that it honors the top golfers in six flights, with one member of each team assigned to a flight.

The legwork to keep the tournament going usually falls on senior members from the participating clubs during an annual meeting. New clubs are invited, and if they win the approval of the rest of the courses at the meeting, they get to host the event the year following their debut.

The Kishwaukee men and Dixon women were the first team champions in 1923. Kishwaukee golfers dominated the first few years, with 1927 being the first year that golfers not from there won titles:

F. L. Markel of Edgewood and Elizabeth Curtis of Clinton. Curtis was a back-to-back Iowa Womens Amateur champion in 1926-27.

Milo and Hazel Oakland of Kishwaukee are the only husband-and-wife duo to win the event so far.

They both won in 1925; Milo also won in 1924 and 1941, and Hazel also won in 1926.

To win the Lincoln Highway is considered one of the top feats in regional golf, and winning it more than once adds to golfers’ bragging rights. Several have won it twice, and 16 have won it three times or more.

Then there’s Kishwaukee’s Ruth (Fender) Heal, who’s become without a doubt the greatest Lincoln Highway golfer of all time, finishing on top 21 times in the last 50 years, and leading her club to even more team titles during that time.

Her first win came in 1972, but she already had plenty of golf success before that. The Northern Illinois University Hall of Fame athlete won several 18-hole tournaments at Kishwaukee after college, and she also won Women’s International Amateur titles in 1972 and 1973. Her Lincoln Highway successes also helped her win the Illinois State Senior Women’s Championship in 1999. Heal continued to participate in the event into her 70s, having last won in 2014.

Kishwaukee’s total successes are more plentiful than the others when combining accolades among men and women: The course has 78 total team titles — including 47 for the women — and 62 total individual titles.

The women’s portion of the event was cancelled on two occasions, in 1974 due to inclement weather and 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The men’s side of the tournament has not missed a year.

Whether one is in their 70s or fresh out of middle school, the Lincoln Highway tournament is a mix of many different cultures, lifestyles and personalities, each with their own goal in mind, whether it’s taking home a trophy, earning bragging rights, or just improving their game.

Those who have taken part in it can claim to be part of something prestigious, and there’s none better in northern Illinois than the Lincoln Highway.

8 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 SM-ST2091572 Lanark Dental Clinic 120 S. Broad St. • PO Box 43 Lanark, IL 61046 815.493.2244 Dennis J. Walters D.D.S. FOR SALE Trailside Complex Motel - Mini Golf - Store Gas Station - Office Space Embrace a fantastic new Lifestyle when you own this one-of-a-kind Property INQUIRIES: TRALSIDE@AOL.COM 21-78 Lake Carroll Blvd, Lake Carroll www.trailsideinc.com MOVING??? We make moving easy by taking care of the cleaning. We can do the packing for you too!! 15+ Years Experience Lake Carroll Millie & Dean Meier 815-291-9432 SUNSHINE CLEANING Call one of these businesses today! Want to see your business here? Call Jill at 815-631-8774
— Cody Cutter

Scheidegger’s first-day score of +6 led her team at that point. Bogusevic and Cuvelier each improved upon their plus scores in the second day, Cuvelier with a +10 and Bogusevic with a +9.

“I did pretty well for myself, so that was good,” Bogusevic said. “I like the tournament. There’s a great group of ladies, and I like the history of it with this being 100 years.”

Melville had a much better showing in the second day after finishing the first with a -6; she turned in a +8 to finish at -2 for the event.

“It’s something different and something to look forward to,” Melville said, adding that she struggled the first day, but bounced back: “[The second day] was a better day.”

Dixon’s Timber Creek Golf Course won the tournament with +124, besting defending champion Kishwaukee Country Club of DeKalb and its score of +70. Prophet Hills of Prophetstown was third with +59, and Sunset of Mount Morris (+50), Indian Oaks of Shabbona (+45), Deer Valley (+32) and PrairieView of Byron (-45) rounded out the bottom half of team scoring.

“I am so proud of Dixon, I really thought they were going to win it this year,” Scheidegger said. “For them to win it, especially on the 100th anniversary, is pretty cool. They have a great team.”

Timber Creek’s Katie Drew, a Dixon High School senior, had the event’s best score of +31. Kester, who is the head women’s golf coach at Northern Illinois University, finished second with +30, beating Timber Creek’s Mandy Hinkey in a playoff. Hinkey, daughter of Lake Carroll’s Rick and Barb Curia of Dixon, may have missed out on second place, but her score was good enough to take top honors in the second flight of golfers. Barb also competed for Timber Creek, having won the seventh flight with +13.

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 9 Tuesday - Saturday 10:00am - 5:00pm Sunday Noon - 4pm www.millfurnishing.com Living Room Furniture Bedroom Furniture Dining Room Sets Flooring Accessories Window Treatments And A Whole Lot More! OPEN Or By Appointment 9416 W. Wafner Rd • Lena, IL 61048 • 815-369-5300 “Next to Lena Brewing Company and The Rafters Restaurant” 9426 W. WAGNER RD LENA, IL 61048 815-369-5322 Wednesday & Thursday 11am-5pm Friday & Saturday 11am-8pm Sunday 11am-4pm • HOME ACCENTS • PERFECT GIFTS • GOURMET FOOD AND SO MUCH MORE! SM-ST2090423
Tracey DeCrane tees off from hole No. 1 during the Women’s Lincoln Highway tournament. DeCrane and Lake Carroll's team of eight golfers combined to finish fourth in a field of eight teams in the century-long amateur golf event with a score of +55 in a best-against bogey format. CODY CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM

Final team results

1. Timber Creek (Dixon) +124, 2. Kishwaukee (DeKalb) +70, 3. Prophet Hills (Prophetstown) +59, 4. Lake Carroll +55, 5. Sunset (Mt. Morris) +50, 6. Indian Oaks (Shabbona) +45, 7. Deer Valley (Deer Grove) +32, 8. PrairieView (Byron) -45.

First flight

*Katie Drew (Timber Creek) +31 & individual champion, **Kim Kester (Kishwaukee) +30 & individual runner-up, Ali Scheidecker (Sunset) +17, Joanne Sharp (PrairieView) +15, Shelley Felske (Prophet Hills) +15, Sandy Bogusevic (Lake Carroll) +14, Deena Simester (Deer Valley) +13, Jackie Johnson (Indian Oaks) +8.

Second flight

Mandy Hinkey (Timber Creek) +30, Cathy Verhulst (Prophet Hills) +20, Jan Nissen (Kishwaukee) +19, Ellie Wasson (Deer Valley) +18, Ava Hackman (Sunset) +17, Beth Haag (Indian Oaks) +10, Deb Scheidegger (Lake Carroll) +9, Carla Leddy (PrairieView) -10.

Third flight

Patty Head (Timber Creek) +24, Donna Martin (Kishwaukee) +18, Karen Wiersema (Prophet

Hills) +15, Deb Cuvelier (Lake Carroll) +14, Carol Wold (Deer Valley) +9, Lynn Martz (Indian Oaks) +8, Jessica Janes (Sunset) +4, Cory Lawrence (PrairieView) W/D.

Fourth flight

Jo Yeager (Lake Carroll) +17, Nikki Massini (Timber Creek) +10, Jennie Francis (Indian Oaks) +4, Linda Hartley (Kishwaukee) +2, Torri Scheidender (Sunset) 0, Dawn Smith (PrairieView) -1, Margie Sommers (Prophet Hills) -2, Donna Brooks (Deer Valley) -3.

Fifth flight

Mimi Boysen (Timber Creek) +16, Diane Nehring (Indian Oaks) +12, Denise Oberle (Deer Valley) +8,

Donna Moore (Prophet Hills) +4, Jaime Melville (Lake Carroll) -2, Debbie Brue (Kishwaukee) -2, Amy Kubatzke (PrairieView) -4, Stes Page (Sunset) -16.

Sixth flight

Colleen Miller (Sunset) +16, Megan Kerkman (Indian Oaks) +3, Angie Thompson (Lake Carroll) +1, Kris Zschiesche (Prophet Hills) 0, Kathy Halloran (Kishwaukee) -5, Lorrie Nagy (Timber Creek) -9, Marcia Chapinski (Deer Valley) -14, Brenda Henry (PrairieView) W/D.

Seventh flight

Barb Curia (Timber Creek) +13, Sheri Moutrey (Lake Carroll) 0, Diana Hanson (Sunset) -4, Jane Kielb (Kishwaukee) -8, Lean Richardson (Indian Oaks) -8, Corri Kelly (Prophet Hills) -14, Laura Medlar (PrairieView) -13, Jan Wetzell (Deer Valley) -13.

Eighth flight

Karen Stenzel (Prophet Hills) +5, Laura Osborne (Kishwaukee) +3, Tracey DeCrane (Lake Carroll) -1, Janet Freil (Timber Creek) -10, Sonia CalhounGilroy (Sunset) -10, Cindy Moorehead (Deer Valley) -13, Judy Rud (Indian Oaks) -15, Jeanne Washko (PrairieView) -32.

Notes * – denotes defunct course **Bureau Valley Country Club now is Chapel Hill Golf Course. Tournament not played in 1974 due to inclement weather and 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. No team scores were kept for the 1929 tournament.

10 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 CERTIFIED ARBORIST LANT HUNTLEY Horticulture Service Since 1978, Licensed by the Illinois Dept. of Agriculture 1382 IL HWY 2 NORTH - OREGON, IL 61061 Tree Surgeon SPECIALIZING IN: DISEASED • STRESSED INSECT INFESTATION • SYSTEMIC FEEDING Free Estimates Insured & Bonded Reasonable Rates CERTIFICATE # IL-4683A www.huntleyhorticulture.com 815-229-6695
Bureau Valley, Princeton** 2 0 0 0 Clinton* 13 12 8 3 Deer Valley, Deer Grove 1 0 0 0 Dixon/Timber Creek 14 9 8 3 Edgewood, Polo* 2 2 1 0 Emerald Hill, Sterling 1 0 5 0 Freeport 0 0 0 0 Indian Oaks, Shabbona 1 0 0 0 Kishwaukee, DeKalb 11 48 39 29 Lake Carroll, Lanark 1 0 0 0 Morrison/Sunset Woods/Prairie Ridge* 12 15 10 4 Oregon* 12 1 14 1 PrairieView, Byron 1 0 0 0 Prophet Hills, Prophetstown 1 0 0 0 Rochelle/Fairways 11 3 3 0 Rock River 14 7 9 3 Sunset, Mt. Morris 2 1 2 1 No. of No. of No. of # Team & Times Team Individual Individual Course Hosted Wins Wins Wins No. of No. of No. of # Team & Times Team Individual Individual Course Hosted Wins Wins Wins

“I wanted to do as well as a I did last year. I think I was +26, so I did that, and I’m very happy with it,” Hinkey said. “I’m so happy we won as a team. We’ve been chasing Kishwaukee for a number of years now, and to win by a pretty good margin, it feels really good.”

In last year’s event, Lake Carroll placed seventh out of eight teams, with a combined score of -9. Emma Norton led Lake Carroll with a +20 and was runner-up in the first flight, followed by Scheidegger’s +9 for runner-up honors in the fourth flight; and Bogusevic (+2), DeCrane (-9), Melville (-14), Sue Pfaff (-17), Athena Peterson (-19) and Moutrey also competed. Norton tied for seventh-place overall last year with Jan Nissen of Kishwaukee.

Sunset is scheduled to host next year’s tournament, tentatively planned for July 5-6 in Mount Morris.

Some of Lake Carroll’s golfers used this year’s competition as an opportunity to get warmed up for this year’s Club Championship, which took place July 15-16 (a recap of that event will appear in the September edition of Lake Lifestyle).

Lake Carroll’s golfers enjoyed being a part of history.

“This is pretty cool, especially with it being just the third year Lake Carroll has been a part of it and now hosting the 100th anniversary,” DeCrane said. “It was a lot of fun for both days.”

(Shaw Media’s Dan Wussow contributed to this story.) Cody Cutter can be reached at 815-632-2532 or ccutter@shawmedia.com

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 11
Above: Lake Carroll’s Sheri Moutrey (left) talks with teammate Angie Thompson during a break at the Women’s Lincoln Highway tournament. Right: Mandy Hinkey poses with her flight runner-up award. CODY CUTTER/ CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM
RON HENNINGS—
E D I A . C O M
PHOTO:CODYCUTTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWM
12 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023

on Hennings can make a pretty good case for getting hooked on music.

That’s because he’s a lawyer who could argue before the Supreme Court during the day and crank out some Diana Ross and the Supremes at night.

What began with a call for help from the Fishing Club turned Hennings into “the local DJ” around Lake Carroll, and while it’s a role the longtime Lake Carroll member didn’t look for, he’s glad he found it.

You know Hennings has a gig when you see him decked out in his musical gear — hats and pants with guitars on them. That’s how into it Hennings is: He’s not just a guy with some music equipment, he has a passion for what people listen to, from classic rock to current hits and everything in between.

His talent for getting people to snap their fingers and tap their feet — and maybe even bust out their best dance moves — is part instinct, part research, and part knowing your audience. A lot of times he knows he’s going a good job when no one notices that he’s there, he said.

“The thing that can be the hardest thing to do, but you get a feel for it, is dealing with the crowd,” Hennings said. “What kind of music are they looking for? What songs are they dancing to? You try to keep the music along those lines. There are some songs that everybody will get up and dance to, I can make up a set list of songs that I know pretty much everybody will get up and dance a little.”

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 13

Ron Hennings has volunteered his time at Lake Carroll events as a master of music, emcee of entertainment and a maestro of music quizzes. “There are some songs that everybody will get up and dance to, I can make up a set list of songs that I know pretty much everybody will get up and dance a little,” he said.

AIDEMWAHS@RETTUCC/RETTUCYDOCMOC.

Hennings became friends with career musicians near his primary home in Geneva, and that influenced him to build up a collection of musical gear for hosting get-togethers and cranking up the karaoke from time to time. Having been a member for 32 years at Lake Carroll, where he built his part-time home in 2006, his talent for tunes didn’t go unnoticed. About 10 years ago, when the entertainment for the Fishing Club’s Christmas party fell through, Ron got a call from a club member who thought he might be able to help solve the club’s holiday dilemma.

“The phone rings, and it’s someone from the Fishing Club saying, ‘Hey Ron, we need entertainment for tonight,’” Hennings said. “I said, ‘Are you sure you’re calling the right person?’ I had never done anything like that.”

14 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 TIMBER LAKE PLAYHOUSE TLP Annual Gala--August 27 BOX OFFICE - 815-244-2035 WWW.TIMBERLAKEPLAYHOUSE.ORG SM-ST2090648 August 3-13 August 8, 10-12 September 8-10 & 13-17 December 1-3 & 6-10 August 17-27

But as they say, there’s a first time for everything, and Ron’s first time wasn’t his last.

The Fishing Club gig opened up the door for more, and Ron started getting calls for his services, either from people who were at the party, or others who had heard about it.

Ron Hennings hosts a trivia night July 3 at Candlelight Inn at Lake Carroll. The occasional quiz nights consist of teams answering 60 music-related trivia questions, and one final bonus question, from topics that include classic and current rock, pop and country genres.

“It all snowballed from there,” he said — but he makes sure he doesn’t let the snowball get too big.

Hennings’ full-time job is as a lawyer — his office is in St. Charles and he’s a member of the Bar of the United States Supreme Court, which means he can practice in front of the nation’s top justices — so he’s selective about the DJ jobs he takes. He doesn’t advertise, but he said people at Lake Carroll “know how to get a hold of me” if

they need a DJ.

Part of being a DJ means keeping your finger on the pulse of what’s going on in music — and having your finger on the radio buttons.

Henning is a self-professed “obsessive button pusher,” cruising up and down the dial on the car radio during his nearly two-hour drive from Fox Valley to Lake Carroll, listening to both broadcast and satellite radio.

If he hears something that piques his curiosity, he’ll jot it down in a notebook he keeps in his car and the musical nugget may end up in his DJ banter during jobs.

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 15 Ask about our vehicles! KunesAutoCarroll .com FREE Lake Carroll Pick-Up & Delivery We make it EASY!
YDOC
AIDEMWAHS@RETTUCC/RETTUC MOC.
CODY CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM

“I’m constantly flipping through stations all of the way from the ’50s to the current ‘Y2K’ music, they call it,” Hennings said. “So I hear everything, and I get a lot of questions off of what they’re telling me. The DJs are always telling little trivial things. I have a notepad in my car and will actually write things down if I hear something.”

His mastery of music knowledge comes in

handy elsewhere, too, like hosting music trivia nights at Lake Carroll’s Candlelight Inn at the Clubhouse. The first one was held in May 2022 and they’ve been part of the restaurant’s entertainment lineup since then.

Teams of up to six people vie to see if they can match trivial wits with Hennings. Each night’s contest consists of 60 questions, with 10 questions each round, and players can’t get Google-eyed; no help from electronic devices is allowed. Themes include: name that tune, lyrics, band members, and general music trivia. At the end, a Final Jeopardy-like question is asked, with teams wagering up to 20 points. Hennings doesn’t like to make things too easy, as the challenge brings out the fun in people, he said. “The music trivia is a lot of fun, but it’s not easy,” Hennings said. “The first time I did it, some people said it was way too hard, but it was a lot of fun. So I tried to create some sort of balance.”

Song covers were a tricky topic in June’s contest.

16 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023
SM-ST2093083 Lake Carroll home furnishings experts since 1973: - Flooring of all types - Professional installation - Custom & lodge furniture - Premium Window Fashions - Mattress Gallery - Free delivery & setup V A N D E R H E Y D E N Furniture & Flooring 9105 US Hwy 20, East of Lena 815-369-2224 Professional Design & Installation Call Chip today for your FREE MATERIALS CONSULTATION! www.fischer-companies.com 1567 Heine Rd, Freeport IL 815-541-1425 Chip Sohl csohl@fischerinc.com Architectural & Landscape Stone Products • Signs & Benches • Flagstone • Fireplace Surrounds • & Much More! • Boulders • Cut Stone • Pavers • Tile • Fire Pits • Slabs • Full & Thin Veneer • Outcropping Stone For your Excavating or Gravel Delivery needs call Bill “Woody” at 815-266-7269 ETTUCC/RETTUCYDOC R @ S H A WMEDIA.COM DJs these days don’t have to lug around crates of albums and stacks of 45s —all the need is a computer and some other gear, like this Vestax Typhoon Midi Controller, which Ron Hennings brings to the events and occasional private parties where he entertains.

“Some songs you would never actually know were covers,” Hennings said. “One of them that surprised people was Joan Jett’s ‘I Love Rock and Roll.’ That’s a cover. The song that launched Allison Krauss’ career, ‘When You Say Nothing at All,’ that’s a cover. That song was never meant to be released as a single; it was on a tribute album for Keith Whitley, who did the original. The radio stations were playing it, and the record company felt like they had no choice than to release it as a single, and that launched Allison Krauss’ career.”

“Killing Me Softly With His Song” is another one: Younger people tend to remember Lauryn Hill and the Fugees’ 1996 version, while others are more familiar with Roberta Flack’s 1973 hit, which itself was a cover.

“Roberta Flack’s was a cover, too,” Hennings said. “It was actually done by Lori Lieberman, and the story behind that one was that Roberta Flack was on an airplane and was listening to music, and when that song came on she kept playing it over and over. When the plane landed, she got a hold of her manager and said, ‘You get me that song.’ Then she recorded it. Lori got the idea at a concert for Don McLean, because she felt that the songs that he was singing matched her life.”

Sometimes Ron makes a little music of his own, tackling a tune on the karoake machine. Here he belts out some BTO with Wayne Schricker (left) after Schricker’s team, Takin’ Care of Biz’ness, won a music trivia contest July 3 at Candlelight Inn. The song they sang? “Takin’ Care of Business,” of course.

At the a recent trivia night on July 3, the team of “Takin’ Care of ‘Biz’ness” came out on top in a two-team race throughout the night, with others jockeying for position in the rest of the top 10. Both guests and the host have fun putting their trivia talents to the test, and Hennings will sometimes cap the night with karaoke. Recently, he and Wayne Schricker, who was on Lake Car-

roll’s winning team, sang BachmanTurner Overdrive’s “Takin’ Care of Business” to celebrate. Schricker, a BTO fan, later shared with Hennings his knowledge of how the song came to be, and about the band’s earlier incarnation as Brave Belt.

“I’ve learned so much about music, even some things that we take for granted,” Hennings said.

Hennings said that even though his DJ work began “as a fluke,” it’s become a lot of fun. He’s enjoyed meeting new people in the community through his interest in music.

“I can’t tell you how many friends we’ve made here, and how nice the people really are,” Hennings said.

Cody Cutter can be reached at 815-632-2532 or ccutter@shawmedia.com

Find Candlelight Inn at Lake Carroll on Facebook and give it a "like" to keep up to date on future music trivia nights hosted by Lake Carroll’s Ron Hennings.

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 17 www.landmarkhomesandconstruction.com Our Showroom Is Only Minutes From Lake Carroll SHOWROOM HOURS: TUESDAY - FRIDAY 10AM-2PM SATURDAY 9AM-NOON OR BY APPT. 15102A IL. RT. 73, Shannon, IL PH: (815) 493-2903 Cell: (815) 499-7779 General Contractor: Randy Landis Remodeling • Basements Decks • Garages Stick Built Homes We install Andersen, Pella, Marvin, and Vinyl new construction & replacement windows Memories last a lifetime. Begin yours with a new home. SM-ST2091574 Your Fishing Hookup Tom’s Bait & Tackle 1242 1/2 S Galena | Freeport | (815) 232-3337 • Mon-Fri 7am-5pm/Sat 7am-3pm/Sun 7am-1pm • Bait • Lures • Hooks • Rods • Reels Bulk Bait Available Large Selection of Terminal Tackle & More 24Hour Bait Machine #1 Bait Shop Stop Looking for Fisherman
C O D Y CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM
18 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023

Tom and Jan Young of Lake Carroll are members of Bluebirds Across Nebraska, and have extended the nonprofit group’s outreach to northern Illinois and Lake Carroll, where they’ve lived since 2014.

“We’ve met a lot of real nice people out there, “Tom said. “That’s one of the nice parts of doing this, there are people who care about bluebirds.”

CODY CUTTER/ CCUTTER@ SHAWMEDIA.COM

hen Tom and Jan Young took on a project to help some of nature’s avian aviators set up house in Lake Carroll, they really came through with flying colors — especially blue.

The Youngs enjoy watching birds come and go from their lake home, but there’s one kind in particular they’re especially fond of: They’re blue, they’re small, and lately there’s more of them at Lake Carroll, thanks to the Youngs. They’re bluebirds, a kind once populous across the nation, but more recently dwindling in numbers.

The Youngs are working to change that, and they’re doing it one birdhouse at a time.

The couple have set out to make Lake Carroll a bluebird-friendly haven where the tiny tweeters can have their own birdhouses and freely flit and fly about, adding splashes of color to the bucolic backdrop that is Lake Carroll.

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 19

“Bluebirds used to be plentiful in the United States,” Tom said. “They were all over the place, and they aren’t now. The reason being is the introduction of the sparrow and the starlings, which came over from Europe to help control insects and mosquitoes. It was pretty much a big failure, but now there’s zillions of them around and they like the same habitat as bluebirds.”

Bluebirds prefer open spaces, and Lake Carroll’s golf course provides a prime location where they can be close to native prairies and still have places up high to perch. Houses are about 100 yards apart from each other. The wooded areas can be a tricky place to build a nest at, however, with wrens and sparrows disturbing bluebird eggs and being bird bullies.

“Both of those birds use the same type of birdhouse, but they kill bluebirds,” Tom said. “If we see a wren nest under construction, or a sparrow nest, it gets tossed. There’s a lot of people who like wrens; they sing a good song, and we’ll see a lot of wren houses, but they’re probably unaware of how bad those birds are, not just to bluebirds, but all songbirds. They’ll go in the nests, poke holes in the eggs and sometimes throw them around.”

Tom checks a bluebird nest in his back yard at Lake Car- roll. He and his wife, Jan, got hooked on the birds with the blue hue while living in Nebraska and getting involved in the Bluebirds Across Nebraska organization. “It’s the best group that we’ve had anything to do with,” Jan said. “I love the blue- birds and I love the people, too. They are awesome people.”

CODY CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM

20 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023

These birdhouses are designed to be more inviting to bluebirds and discourage other natural pests from become unwelcome house guests. The nest on the left is made from a PVC tube, designed to look like a birch tree branch, topped off by a cedar roof that can be removed. The nest’s design appeals to bluebirds but not sparrows, and predators can’t cling to its smooth surface. The Troyer box on the right fea tures a small, rectangular entrance that lets in more sunlight, which discourages wrens and sparrows, which tend to prefer darker areas. The Youngs get their birdhouses from Bluebirds Across Nebraska. "They're top-of-the-line bird houses, better than what you would buy in a store," Tom said. “... If you're going to raise bluebirds, this is the way to go." Go to bbne.org/store/nestboxes/ to see the different kinds of birdhouses Bluebirds Across Nebraska offers

AUGUST 12 greaterfreeport.com/events More Info & Route Over 1,000 Classic, Antique & Performance Autos Downtown Freeport Presents 4 pm - Lots Open & Car Show Begins 4-9 pm Food Court 6 pm Gary's Collision Center Muffler Rapping Contest 7 pm Dan's Rt 66 Service Burn-Out Contest 6-9 pm Music by "Free Fall" 7-9 pm Open Cruise around extended Freeport route SM-ST2091556

Bluebirds enjoy meal worms. Some of the cedar birdhouses have a small box where the worms can be placed for the bluebirds to eat.

The Youngs are Illinois natives who came back to the Land of Lincoln about a decade ago after living for years in Plattsmouth, Nebraska, about 25 miles south of Omaha along the Missouri River. It was during their time in Nebraska that they learned about the Bluebirds Across Nebraska organization, which helps spread awareness about the birds and their habitats. Tom and Jan attended one of their seminars and “it sounded interesting,” Tom said. They soon became members of the organization.

MOC.AIDEMWAHS@RETTUC

“It’s the best group that we’ve had anything to do with,” Jan said. “I love the bluebirds and I love the people, too. They are awesome people.”

Tom became acquainted with a bluebird enthusiast, Ron Eaton, who built birdhouses and installed them across Cass County, Nebraska — prairies, state parks and wherever else a bluebird could survive and thrive. When Eaton began having health issues, the Youngs stepped in to help him with his work and their interest in the birds grew.

“He had asked if we could help him out,” Tom said. “We found it interesting, and the more that we volunteered, the more he gave us to do. We took over some real interesting spots, such as state parks and wildlife preserves. When he passed away, we did what we could and got to know more people in the organization.”

When the Youngs moved to Lake Carroll in 2014, they brought over several unused birdhouses and poles of Eaton’s and set off to set up houses and spread the word about the bird.

The specially designed bluebird houses are made by BAN and are designed to keep their tenants happy and safe. One birdhouse design commonly found throughout Lake Carroll is the Troyer box, with its small, rectangular slotted entrance that lets in more sunlight, which discourage wrens and sparrows that tend to prefer darker areas. Another often found around is a PVC nest box, a cylindrical house with a wood roof (see photos on page 21).

MULE™ PRO LINE OF CAPABILITY AND STRENGTH

Freeport Kawasaki

3086 Route 26 N. Freeport, IL 61032

815-235-7549

FreeportHondaKawasaki.com

KAWASAKI CARES: READ OWNER’S MANUAL AND ALL ON-PRODUCT WARNINGS. ALWAYS WEAR PROTECTIVE GEAR APPROPRIATE FOR THE USE OF THIS VEHICLE. NEVER OPERATE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS OR ALCOHOL. PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT. THE KAWASAKI MULE™ SIDE X SIDE IS AN OFF-HIGHWAY VEHICLE ONLY, AND IS NOT DESIGNED, EQUIPPED OR MANUFACTURED FOR USE ON PUBLIC STREETS, ROADS OR HIGHWAYS. OBEY THE LAWS AND REGULATIONS THAT CONTROL THE USE OF YOUR VEHICLE.

©2019 KAWASAKI MOTORS CORP., U.S.A.

22 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 State Farm Bloomington, IL Matt Zumdahl, Agent 1650 S Sleezer Home Road Freeport, IL 61032 Bus: 815-235-2173 www.mattzumdahl.com matt@mattzumdahl.com Zumdahl Ins and Fin Svcs Inc Call me for a quote today Local service & great rates
3 TO 6 PASSENGER TRANS CAB™ MULE PRO-DXT™
DIESEL MULE PRO-FXT™ 3 PASSENGER MULE PRO-DX™ DIESEL MULE PRO-FXR™ MULE PRO-FX™ *Assembled in the U.S.A. badge does not apply to the MULE PRO-MX™ models. 2 PASSENGER MULE PRO-MX™
CODY C U T T E R / C

“They’re top-of-the-line bird houses, better than what you would buy in a store,” Tom said. “The ones you buy at the store, they may be a bluebird house because of the rightsized hole, but that’s about it,” but the doors on the BANbacked birdhouses “are perfect for checking for bluebirds. The others at the store open from the bottom up and when you do it, the nest tends to fall out. These are built by people who know blue birds. If you’re going to raise bluebirds, this is the way to go.”

One thing that helps bluebird enthusiasts in their mission is that bluebirds are more people friendly than other birds, which helps Tom when he makes his weekly rounds to inspect the houses.

“Bluebirds are people birds,” Jan said. “They are very good around people. He can do anything inside the bluebirds house; if there’s eggs in there, or babies, the parents will let you go in there and look at them.”

Bluebirds have 103 houses to choose from throughout Lake Carroll, and the Youngs keep an eye on them to make sure they’re doing OK and to track the number of eggs laid. At left, one of the nearly three dozen houses at the Lake Carroll golf course, and below, one near The Clubhouse parking lot.

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 23 Our office is located at the entrance of Lake Carroll 3-203 Association Dr. • 815-493-6371 Maintenance • Lighting • Construction Get ideas from our gallery @ www.countrysidelandscaping.com Exceptional Quality. Creative Design. Specializing in: Boat Covers Pontoon Covers Bimini Tops Marine Upholstery Outdoor Furniture Covers Boat Lift Canopies All Types of Custom Canvas HOURS: MON-FRI 8-5 SATURDAY by appointment, Closed SUNDAY • CUSTOM MADE CANVAS COVERS • 13721 W. Point Rd. Mount Carroll, IL 61053 ADAM ERB 815-297-2310 25+ YEARS EXPERIENCE

Bluebirds tend to be less skittish around people than other birds, and that helps folks like Tom keep get a bird’s-eye view of their nest. “Bluebirds are people birds” his wife, Jan, said. “They are very good around people. He can do anything inside the bluebirds house; if there’s eggs in there, or babies, the parents will let you go in there and look at them” — and capture some fascinating photos, too.

24 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 Custom Home Builders Kevin Miller, General Contractor 12841 IL Rt. 73, Lanark, IL 815-493-6576 kmillerchb@frontiernet.net Custom Homes • Remodeling • Decks • Garages www.lakecarrollhomebuilders.com
CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM
CODY
BIRD NEST PHOTOS SUBMITTED

The Youngs keep a close eye on the bluebird houses in Lake Carroll, inspecting and keeping track of them, and the nests inside. Last year, there were 86 houses in Lake Carroll, 32 at the golf course and 54 at homes and lots. Within the golf course, 188 eggs were laid last year and 114 birds were fledged from them. Elsewhere, 261 eggs were laid and 161 birds were born. In all, 61% of eggs laid resulted in new birds. This year, there are 103 birdhouses at the lake.

More awareness has been spread

did it, or an animal.”

Want to give bluebirds a hand at Lake Carroll, or anywhere else? Donate $25 to Bluebirds Across Nebraska, and you’ll get a bluebird house, a pole, and information on how to check on and care for bluebirds. Even those who don’t live full-time at Lake Carroll, or just own a lot, can help too. People unable to check on their birdhouse can arrange for the Youngs to visit and see what’s going on and email or text property owners on what’s happening.

815-864-2111 Follow us on social media! @fsbwealthgroup fsbwealthgroup.com
WEALTH MANAGEMENT MADE PERSONAL.
Located at First State Bank Shannon-Polo-Lake Carroll
26 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023

Jerry Jacobs has been president of the Carroll County Fair for five years, and has been on its board for 36. “It’s a place where people from Carroll County and all of the surrounding areas can come and visit with people, and have fun,” he said.

erry Jacobs has seen a lot happen at the Carroll County Fair since he started supervising rabbit showing competitions 36 years ago.

Today, he’s the fair president, and he still sees a lot happening at the fair, and he invites other folks to see it, too.

“It’s a place where people from Carroll County and all of the surrounding areas can come and visit with people, and have fun,” said Jacobs, who’s been fair president for the past 5 years. “Kids can come and show their animals, hobbies, and the vegetables they grow.”

The fair brings the best in farmers and homemakers, both young and old, in friendly competition, and provides entertainment for all ages with music, exhibits, carnival rides, food and fun. This year’s fair — the 73rd, held in August each year — is Aug. 5-12 at Schell Park, east of Milledgeville, with most of the fun starting Aug. 8.

P HOTO: CODYCUTTER/CCUTTE R @ S H MOC.AIDEMWA
A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 27
Cody Cutter Sauk Valley Media

Whether they’re pulling with powerful engines or pedals, or just parked in a show of pride for their owners, tractors will roll and rumble into the fair — big ones, little ones and souped-up ones.

The park’s grandstand is where the fair’s marquee events happen: a truck pull on the 8th, tractor pulls on the 9th, rodeo on the 10th, a concert on the 11th and a demolition derby wraps up the week-long fair on the 12th. The grandstand lineup is the same each year, and the fair is determined to get them in rain or shine, such as the case with last year’s truck pull.

“We had a great fair,” Jacobs said. “We had great weather to start, although Tuesday night we had rain. We had a truck pull on Tuesday night, and we had two excellent track guys who got the track dry after an inch or better rain, and they got the track ready to pull on that night. I bragged them up all week.”

The Carroll County Tractor Drive kicks off the festivities at 10 a.m. Aug. 5, with as many as 75 tractors parading around the fairground. The first of many events judging animals, foods and homemaking abilities begins the following day with a showing of antiques, with animal judging starting on the 8th. Want to bring an animal home? The Carroll County Youth-in-Agriculture Foundation’s livestock and small animal auction highlights the activities Aug. 7.

28 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023
SVM FILE PHOTOS
Northwest IL Largest Furniture, Mattress & Appliance Dealer 20 E. Stephenson St., Downtown Freeport • 815-235-4911 • ritewayfreeport.com Mon - Fri 9 am to 5 pm and Saturday 9 am to 4 pm FURNITURE & APPLIANCE DELIVERY AVAILABLE! FREE REMOVAL ON SELECT OLD FURNITURE, MATTRESSES, AND APPLIANCES YOUR LOCAL DEALER Ask about Short & Long Term Financing Rite-Way an Ashley Dealer for over 30 years All Ashley Items in Stock or Special Orders are Sale Priced FEATURING SIGNATURE DESIGN MERCHANDISE RITE-WAY’S ASHLEY FURNITURE SALE

Saturday, Aug. 5

10 a.m. — Carroll County Tractor Drive

Sunday, Aug. 6

5 to 7 p.m. Carroll County 4-H hamburger

meal deal supper, 4-H exhibit building open

6 p.m. Antiques judging

Monday, Aug. 7

9 a.m. Education, textile and open and junior fine arts judging

10 a.m. Canned goods judging

7 p.m. Carroll County Youth-in-Agriculture

livestock auction

Tuesday, Aug. 8

8 a.m. Farm produce and open and junior fruits judging

8:30 a.m. Open beef, junior sheep and junior market lamb judging

9 a.m. Poultry judging

10:30 a.m. Division I and junior floriculture judging

4 to 10 p.m. Discovery farm

5 to 8 p.m. Bingo

6 p.m. Rabbits judging

6 to 10 p.m. Carnival

6:30 p.m. Illini State Truck Pullers with TriCounty Pullers mini rods competition at the grandstand

Wednesday, Aug. 9

8:30 a.m. Junior beef, open sheep and open market lamb judging

10:30 a.m. Open and junior culinary baking judging (cookies, pies, rolls, buns, yeast breads)

11 a.m. Antique and farmer tractor pull

Noon to 10 p.m. Discovery farm

2, 4, 6 and 8 p.m. — Chainsaw carving demonstrations

The

3 to 10 p.m. Carnival

for event signups.

Did you have fun at this year’s fair? Did you take photos? If so, share some with your fellow Lake Lifestyle readers. Email them to ccutter@shawmedia.com please include a brief description and they may make it into the September edition of the magazine.

4 p.m. Northern Illinois Raptor Rehab and Education owl reading program and display

5 p.m. Tractor parade

5 to 8 p.m. Bingo

6 p.m. Cake walk

6 to 8:30 p.m. Inspired Painting Parties class

6:30 p.m. Badger State Tractor Pull at the grandstand

Thursday, Aug. 10

10 a.m. Division II floriculture judging

10:30 a.m. Open and junior culinary baking judging (cakes, bar cookies, quick breads, candy, muffins)

Noon to 10 p.m. Discovery farm

2, 4, 6 and 8 p.m. — Chainsaw carving demonstrations

4 to 10 p.m. Carnival

5 to 8 p.m. Bingo

6 p.m. Cake walk

7 p.m. Rice bull riding and barrel racing at the grandstand

Friday, Aug. 11

9 a.m. — Open and junior dairy show judging

11:30 a.m. Cow classes in milk

Noon to 10 p.m. Discovery farm

2, 4, 6 and 8 p.m. — Chainsaw carving demonstrations

3 to 10 p.m. Carnival

4 to 7 p.m. — Cake decorating contest and cake walk

5 to 8 p.m. Bingo

7:30 p.m. Queens Blvd. concert at the grandstand

Saturday, Aug. 12

8:30 a.m. Pleasure horse show judging

10 a.m. — Open and junior specialty baking and men's baking judging

10 a.m., noon, 2 and 4 p.m. Chainsaw carving demonstrations

10:30 a.m. Power wheel and bicycle racing

11 a.m. Ninja farmer competition

Noon to 10 p.m. Discovery farm

1 p.m. Kiddie tractor pull

1 to 10 p.m. Carnival

2 to 5 p.m. ZOWA Live wrestling show

5 p.m. Shelly's Dance Studio performance

5 to 8 p.m. Bingo

6 p.m. Cake walk and chainsaw carving auction

6:30 to 7 p.m. Power wheel kids demolition derby at the grandstand

7 p.m. — Demolition derby at the grandstand

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 29
Carroll County Fair runs from Aug. 5-12 at Schell Park, 28374 Milledgeville Road. Daily tickets are $10, and season passes are $30; children 7 years and younger are free. Carnival day passes are $28. The demolition derby at the fair is at 7 p.m. Aug. 12. Tickets are $10. Find Carroll County Fair on Facebook or go to carrollcountyfair.info for more information, including schedules

The Carroll County 4-H Fair will run concurrently to the county fair from Aug. 5-8, also at Schell Park, which brings together children from the five county clubs showing animals and projects to be judged.

Multiple-day events at the fair kick off on the 8th, with the carnival, bingo, antique farm equipment museum and a discovery farm and petting zoo hosted by P&C Little Rascals of Chadwick running until the final day. Cake walks also will take place each day beginning on the 9th. Wood carving art demonstrations by Joe Stebbing of Thurmont, Maryland, also will begin on the 9th, concluding with an auction of works on the 12th.

The Illini State Pullers and Tri-County Pullers will bring their trucks, tractors and trailers to the grandstand on the 8th; and the Badger State Tractor Pullers will exhibit on the 9th. Want to see the machines up close? Pit passes are available for both events for $20.

The 9th also features an owl reading program and display from the Northern Illinois Raptor Rehab and Education wildlife rescue service of Loves Park. In addition, Laura Readdy from Inspired Painting Parties — who also conducts art camps at Lake Carroll — will help aspiring artists paint some “Wicked Chickens” on the 9th.

For a lot of fair-goers, the demolition derby is the highlight of the show. "People love it. The grandstand will be full with all of those cars out on the track, all out there getting into a car wreck. They just go out there and beat on it,” Fair President Jerry Jacobs said. "If there aren't any motors, people aren't going to come.”

30 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 SM-ST2090652 We are open 5 days a week! Mon - Fri : 8:30am - 4:30pm Amy Field, HID Lydia Sitter, Au.D Carolyn Awender, Au.D Got Insurance? If you have an Aetna, Humana, or Unitedhealthcare Medicare Advantage plan, call your provider to check your benefits. We are in-network for hearing devices! 610 S. Park Crest Drive Freeport, IL 61032 815-235-3277 We are pleased to welcome Dr. Lydia Sitter to our team! Hearing Sol utions with Outs tandin g Care and Service CUSTOM KITCHEN CABINETRY DESIGN. DETAIL. QUALITY. Call Wayne for your free consultation 815-631-5950 24911 PAYNE ROAD, SHANNON IL WAYNE@MULLETCUSTOMCABINETS.NET
SVM FILE PHOTO

Four wheels will make way for four legs when bull riding and barrel racing — courtesy of the Rice Bull Riding Co. of Medford, Wisconsin — makes their way to the grandstand on the 10th. Queens Blvd., a rock and roll cover band from St. Louis, will play on the 11th, in high-energy show featuring hits from the ’70s to today.

Want to show off your cake decorating talents? A cake decorating contest will take place on the 11th. Cakes will be provided, but competitors must bring their own icing and decorating supplies.

Saturday the 12th is packed with events: There’ll be power wheel and bicycle racing and a kiddie tractor pull; the Ninja Farmer competition pits competitors against one another in farm chore races; Shelly’s Dance Studio of Milledgeville will put on a show; and amateur wrestlers from ZOWA Live of Rock Falls will bring their wrestling bodyslams and power moves to the fair.

The week ends with a bang — lots of ‘em — when Robbo’s Extreme Derby Promotions of Chillicothe presents the fair-capping demolition derby at 7 p.m. Aug. 12. where drivers vie to become the last car moving for a shot at prize money. A power wheel derby for the children will precede the event at 6:30.

Jacobs said the “world-class” entertainment of derby and the tractor pulls are the two most well-attended events of the week.

“People love it,” Jacobs said. “The grandstand will be full with all of those cars out on the track, all out there getting into a car wreck. They just go out there and beat on it.”

Jacobs says the fair is a warm and welcoming place for people of all ages, and he’s enjoyed the friendliness of both attendees and participants over the years. It’s a time when the county comes together for a week of fun that couldn’t happen without the hard work of local volunteers, organizations,

sponsors, and of course, fair-goers, Jacobs said.

One of the more heartwarming moments he saw happened a few years ago when a broken bike threatened to keep an 8-year-old from racing with his siblings in the bicycle race. Once word got out about it at the fairground, help was on the way.

“People think about everybody,” Jacobs said. “One year we had the bicycle races for the little kids, and one little kid had his bike break when someone ran into it. He sat there and balled since he couldn’t ride his bicycle in the race. Someone from the rodeo went into their camper, got out $300, and gave it to their mom and dad and told them they could get their kid a brand new bike. The kid was all excited, he gets a new bike. It was kind of neat.”

It’s that kind of community-minded spirit that makes the fair possible, a time when the county comes together for a week of family fun that wouldn’t be possible without the hard work of dedicated volunteers, organizations, sponsors, and of course, fair-goers, Jacobs said — and no matter why you come, whether it’s the competitions, carnival or crashing cars, there’s one thing for sure: With all that stuff going on, everyone should be able to enjoy their fair share of fun.

Cody Cutter can be reached at 815-632-2532 or ccutter@shawmedia.com

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 31 Shannon Marine Services TOHATSU OUTBOARD MOTORS • Outboard & Stern Drive Repair • Prop Repair • Winterization & Storage 13S. Shannon Route Shannon www.shannonmarine.com 815-864-2565 Marine Service Call for great prices on.... Celebrating 30 years 1992-2022 • Lawn & Garden Repairs • Small Engine Repairs Larry Heckman (815) 864-2808 25235 Payne Rd. Shannon, IL 61078 forestgreen44@hotmail.com Landscape Design &Installation Seeding *Sodding Locally GrownNursery Stock Evergreens *Shade Trees *Perennials Hardscape Installation *Stone Walks Retaining Walls *Fireplaces Sea Walls *Rip Rap Maintenance *Mowing *TreeRemoval Mulch Delivery *SnowRemoval Licensed Pesticide Applicator CHECK OUT OUR LOWTREE PRICES! SM-ST2091567
32 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 RUSTY SCHRADER/SVM ILLUSTRATION

efore Ulysses S. Grant left Galena to lead the Union Army in the Civil War, the town he called home was one of the largest cities in northern Illinois.

The area’s once rich lead deposits helped fuel an underground movement to push Galena’s population to a peak of nearly 14,000 during the late 1850s as lead mining turned the city into a boom town. Even people from Chicago wanted to tap into the town’s success, but getting there was tough. Direct routes were hard to find, and Sauk, Fox and Pottawatomie natives made it perilous to travel west.

By the late 1820s, some trails from central Illinois to Galena had been established, with a couple of them passing through present-day Dixon, then called Ogee’s Ferry. Among them was the Old Chicago Trail, which was blazed in 1829. The trail was first a mail route and later a stagecoach trail. Just a couple of days were required to get to Ogee’s Ferry from either end of the trail. After the Black Hawk War of 1832 drove Native Americans away from the region, more efficient trails were established.

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 33

The segment from Galena to Dixon consisted of the former Boles and Kellogg trails, the latter having once run about 5 miles east of present-day Lake Carroll. The Kellogg trail met the Boles trail 5.5 miles east of Lanark, and it’s from this point where this month’s Lake Lifestyle Day Trip feature begins — a scenic route along the old stagecoach route through rural roads and major and minor arteries through Chicago suburbs.

Stagecoaches ran on this route until the 1850s, when Galena’s prominence as a mining town began to fade and more direct routes to towns were established. The route would also become a well-traveled portion of the Underground Railroad in the days before America’s bloody breakup. Today, Galena’s population is about a fifth of what it was during its peak years, but it still attracts attention from Chicago residents, but these days as a top tourist draw in northern Illinois, and those Windy City residents find it a breeze to get there, compared to centuries gone by.

Most sights along the trail from that time are gone, but a few gems remain, so if you’re looking for a scenic route to or from Lake Carroll, and you’ve got a couple of hours to spare, here’s a look at some sights see along the way (directions along the way are in italics).

Chambers Grove Road is named after tavern keeper and grove owner Isaac Chambers. It begins at U.S. Route 52, 5.5 miles east of Lanark, and runs for 6.5 miles to state Route 26 with curves along the way. This is along the path of the Boles Trail, which was established in 1826 as a shorter route from Galena to Ogee’s Ferry. The rest of the way toward Dixon has been wiped out for farmland, but Route 26 closely parallels it.

Turn right at the T intersection and proceed 20 miles south to Dixon; U.S. 52 joins this route north of Polo. Once in Dixon, turn right at state Route 2, and then left one block later on Hennepin Avenue.

34 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 SM-ST2091569 20 Years of Service in Lake Carroll • Landscape Installation • Landscape & Lawn Cleanups • Lawn Mowing & Maintenance • New Lawn Installation • Skid Loader Work • Retaining Walls • Paver Patios • Fire Pits • Concrete Work • Tree Removal • Deck Installation Serving Lake Carroll for 20 Years • 815-275-3011 • guentnerlawncare.com Complete Landscape & Lawn Service Guentner
and Lawn Care
Landscaping
1

The original site of Dixon’s Ferry (originally Ogee’s Ferry) once served as a fort for American soldiers during the Black Hawk War in 1832 as they fought bands led by the namesake Sauk chief. The stagecoach route crossed the Rock River at this point. Future President Abraham Lincoln was a captain of a company of soldiers who tracked down Black Hawk’s band along the Rock River. A statue of Lincoln stands at the park, and is one of only a few of him in a military uniform. Lincoln mustered out of service as a Captain mid-war and re-enlisted as a private, a rank he held when he helped bury war dead at Kellogg’s Grove, about 10 miles northwest of Lake Carroll.

The Old Settlers Cabin in Dixon is operated by the Lee County Historical and Genealogical society; it pays homage to local rural dwellings and Lincoln’s days living in them as a young adult. The cabin was built in 1894 from logs donated by local residents, and its interior is reminiscent of 19th century living. Events are held periodically; call the society at 815-284-1134 for event information.

Backtrack to U.S. Route 52, and follow it east for 9.6 miles.

Once the site of a Presbyterian church, its first overseer, John Cross, made it a “station” of the Underground Railroad for runaway slaves to seek freedom from the southern United States en route to British-occupied Canada. Only the cemetery remains from those days. The stagecoach trail became part of the slaves’ network of escape paths, and there are more stops along the route.

Follow U.S. 52 east for another 3/4-mile and continue straight on Inlet Road where the highway curves to the right; continue ahead for an additional 6 miles through Lee Center to the first bridge after the village.

PHOTOS: CODY CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 35
ROCKFORD 4949 Harrison Ave. Ste. 110 Rockford, IL 61108 FREEPORT 1013 Loras Dr. Ste. A Freeport, IL 61032 815-201-5011 | ANCHORWM.COM LANARK 126 N. Broad St. Lanark, IL 61046 Securities offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Anchor Wealth Management are not affiliated. Non-deposit investment products are not FDIC insured, not bank guaranteed, and may lose value. Anchor Wealth Management knows that every journey begins with knowing the destination. By understanding your end goal our team charts the course for you and stays with you every step of the way. Put AWM at the helm for your sailing future. LET OUR FAMILY GUIDE YOURS Please call for more information or to arrange a tour or visit us at: www.LibertyVillageofFreeport.com 2170 W. Navajo Drive, Freeport 815-297-9902 When you’re not ready for a nursing home, our Bounce Back Program is the answer! Program Includes: • Interdisciplinary team of experienced professionals • State-of-the-art therapy equipment • Full range of rehabilitative therapiesphysical, occupational, and speech • Case management to oversee insurance and Medicare to maximize your benefits • Beautiful suites completely furnished including TV and phone hookups Program Goals: • Increase or restore range of motion and strength
Teach positioning, mobility, transfers and walking skills
Reduce pain through use of modalities and adaptive equipment
Improve cognitive and communication skills
Promote safe swallowing Together we can get you on the road to recovery. Let us show you how to Bounce Back!
2

Where Inlet Road crosses the Green River in cen tral Lee County once consisted of swampland during stagecoach days where members of the Banditti of the Prairie gang hung out from 1843 to 1850. The Banditti engaged in robbery, theft and occasional murder of local residents and stagecoach travelers, and were active in Lee, Ogle, Winnebago and DeKalb counties until their demise at the hands of local “regulator” groups.

The Banditti were indirectly involved with the early formation of the Pinkerton National Detective Agency of Chicago. Allan Pinkerton, who lived in the Dundee area around this time, helped apprehend several Banditti members en route to northwest Illinois, and it was the genesis of a noted law enforcement career.

The trail meanders along nearby Montavon and Fell roads not long after this point, but we’ll stay on the paved roads to get to the next destination: Follow Inlet Road 2 miles, turn left at the four-way stop intersection with Shaw Road, and follow 8 miles.

For 188 years, the Gilmore Family has farmed near the highest point in Lee County. Seventh-generation members of the family now run the operation, which is on private property. The farm is one of the oldest sesquicentennial farms in northern Illinois owned by the same family, and the oldest in the county. The family came to their land when their wagon got stuck in the mud at that spot in 1835, and first-generation owner John Gilmore set up his home. Proceed east for 5 miles to Paw Paw.

Paw Paw, approximately halfway on the stagecoach trail between Galena and Chicago was founded in 1834. The Illinois State Historical Society erected a marker commemorating the trail in 1986.

If you’re looking for a photo op on the trail, here’s a place to pose. The park is named after the Rogers Family, who also operates a sesquicentennial farm nearby.

Proceed east out of town for about 5 miles to where the road curves to the left; at that point, turn right at Chicago Road and follow for 10 miles.

36 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023
CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS AND SO MUCH MORE Since 1995 Aaron Wolfe, Owner CALL TODAY FOR FREE ESTIMATES | 815-541-7996 • PLEASE VISIT US ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE AT TAS ENTERPRISE Lake Carroll Property Owner Trusted, Registered Contractor When You Want Custom
CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM
PHOTOS: CODY

Two historical markers are in this area near the crossing with the Kishwaukee River. One is located at the Somonauk United Presbyterian Church, built in 1875, commemorating an Underground Railroad stop in a log cabin near the site. The church was established during the late history of stagecoach service on the trail. Another marker sits at the northeast corner of Chicago and Rimsnider roads at the bridge crossing — that one was erected by the DeKalb County Historical Society in 1972 and marks the location of the log cabin owned by George and Anne Beveridge, whose son, John, was governor of Illinois from 1873-77.

Proceed east for 17 miles to Orchard Road in Montgomery. Within the Chicago suburbs, segments of the trail toward the city exist in fragments, with plenty of jogs along the way. To get to the next destination, turn left on Orchard Road, right at U.S. Route 30, cross the Fox River, and then turn right at Briarcliff Road, right on Fernwood Road, right on Bereman Road, right on state Route 25 and proceed about 1,500 feet.

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 37 Visit Our Showroom Today! From Start to Finish, We’re Here Every Step of the Way MONDAY - FRIDAY: 8:30 AM-5:30PM • SATURDAY: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (ALSO OPEN BY APPOINTMENT) 701 E. South St. | Freeport, IL 61032 | 815-233-5667 www.floortoceilingfreeport.com KITCHENS • BATHROOMS • BLINDS & DRAPERIES QUARTZ & GRANITE COUNTERTOPS • FLOORING From kitchen and baths, to floor and window coverings, we know what it takes to make a house a home. Whether residential or commercial, you’ll be to sure to find exactly what you’re looking for. Our professional design team has the experience and know-how to help make your decisions easy. CABINETS • COUNTERTOPS • FLOORING BACKSPLASHES• WINDOW TREATMENTS • Landscaping Design • Installation • Maintenance • Retaining Walls • Custom Patios • Licensed Pesticide Applicators • Snow Removal • Rip-Rap and Sea Walls • Water features • Horticulture Degree Staff • Outdoor Kitchens and Fireplaces Serving the Lake Carroll Community for over 30 years
CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM
CODY

Along Route 25 — at 1640 Southeast River Road in Montgomery — a group of stones mark where the old stagecoach trail crossed the Fox River, which was shallow enough to be forded like the many creeks along the way. No marker or sign references this spot as a stagecoach trail site. About 1,000 feet north on the west bank of the river was John Gray’s mill was established in 1850 and was a side stop near the trail. The mill has since become a restaurant and events center.

Proceed north from the ford point to the stoplight intersection with Mill Street and turn right, where it becomes Montgomery Road. Proceed for 4.5 miles to Ogden Avenue and turn left; follow for 4.4 miles and turn right at Rickert Road in Naperville. Follow immediate left turns onto Sequoia Road and Oswego Road. Follow to the T and West Street, turn left and then right on Aurora Avenue past Central High School.

38 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023
45 Minute Drive Down US-52 815-288-4455 www.KenNelsonAuto.com 1100 North Galena Ave Dixon, IL 61021
CODY CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM

Joseph Naper, founder of the village that would bear his name, came to the area in 1831. Several of the city’s oldest buildings were moved to this site in 1969 to become the Naper Settlement historic attraction. The complex — 523 S. Webster St. in Naperville — consists of 13 acres of local history, exhibits and living history demonstrations such as blacksmithing and wash bucket racing. An active calendar of additional history events and attractions keeps the place a multiplevisit destination. Go to napersettlement.org or find it on Facebook for up-to-date events and information. Proceed east for two blocks to Washington Street and turn left to go across the DuPage River; then turn right immediately at Chicago Avenue, which becomes Maple Avenue going to Down ers Grove. Follow Maple Avenue in Downers Grove to where it jogs at Dunham Road and turn left; proceed for 3/4-mile.

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 39 SM-ST2090415 207 E. Broadway Mt. Carroll, IL 815-244-2111 Monday to Thursday 9AM-5PM Friday 9AM-6PM • Saturday 10AM-2 PM visit our website SchneiderHouseFurniture.com Established in 1893 “Over 30,000 square feet of showroom”

Israel and Avis Blodgett arrived in Downers Grove shortly after the town’s founding in 1832 and built a small home in 1846 to replace a log cabin. A larger home was built nearby in 1892. Both houses —at 831 Maple Ave. — feature collections highlighting the town’s history and 19th century home life. The 1846 structure is the second-oldest building in town. Go to dgparks.org/downersgrove-museum for up-to-date events and information.

Maple Avenue turns into Naperville Road going east to Westmont. Additional jogs take place at Warwick Avenue, turning left then right; Woodstock Avenue, turning left; and Ogden Avenue, turning right. The Hinsdale Golf Club and Kingery Highway fragment the trail’s right-of-way. Follow Ogden for 2 miles, turn left at York Road and proceed about 1/3-mile.

40 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 home YOU FIND THE PERFECT Our lending staff will find you the perfect loan. 3310 IL RT. 26 S. Freeport (South of Menards) 815-232-2601 greg@swingnsplash.com www.swingnsplash.com THE TRUSTED POOL CARE EXPERTS Inground Pools Above Ground Pools In Stock Hot Tubs Weekly/Monthly Pool & Hot Tub Maintenance Pool Supplies & Chemicals FREE Water Testing & Advice AVAILABLE FOR INSTALLATION CALL TODAY!

The suburb of Fullersburg does not exist, however, it was once a small community along the bank of the Salt Creek on present-day York Road. Benjamin Fuller arrived in 1840, and his home on the east side of York Road currently is undergoing restoration for a museum. The Graue Mill, across the road, is one of two operating grist mills in Illinois (the other, at Franklin Creek State Park in Lee County, was featured in June’s Lake Lifestyle). The mill was established in 1850 by Frederick Graue; it, and his nearby home, were also stops along the Underground Railroad. Today, Graue’s mill and home — at 3800 York Road, Hinsdale — are open as museums.

Across the creek is the York Tavern, originally established in 1846 as The Farmer’s Home. Renovations in 2006 rechristened the place under its current name. The establishment is believed to be the oldest continually operating bar and restaurant in DuPage County.

Go to fullersburg.org to learn more about the historic village.

Backtrack to Ogden Avenue and head east through LaGrange and into Lyons, and turn left at Joliet Avenue.

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 41
SM-ST2090391 1006 N. Lowden Rd. Mount Carroll, IL 61053 815-244-7715 “At Allure You’re All Family” • Skilled Care • Rehabilitation • Respite Care • Hospice Care
The Ben Fuller Farmhouse (top) and York Tavern (below), part of Fullersburg. PHOTOS: CODY CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM Above and below: Graue’s Mill.

The Fullersburg area represents the last extant reminders of stagecoach days along the trail; nothing exists going further east, except for portions of the right-of-way itself.

Just before crossing the Des Plaines River, the Hofmann Tower (3910 Barrypoint Road, Lyons) looms tall over its west bank. The tower, built in 1908 well after the stagecoach route was no more, was part of a park complex in Lyons. On the other side of the creek once stood Laughton’s Tavern, a stop along the route.

Follow Joliet Avenue across the river onto Barrypoint Road, and turn left on Riverside Road — The trail continues northeast from the river crossing toward Berwyn, but on a series of winding streets that the town of Riverside is known for. Established in 1868 as a “planned community,” Riverside’s most iconic downtown structure is its brick water tower (10 Pine Ave., Riverside), erected the following year by William LeBaron Jenney, who would go on to build the world’s first skyscraper in Chicago 15 years later. Proceed north on Riverside Road until curving right onto Longcommon Road; be sure to pay attention to street signs as the path weaves and splits within Riverside — After meandering through all of that, the Berwyn Public Library (2701 S. Harlem Ave.) marks the end of the constant weaving. Longcommon Road becomes Riverside Drive after passing the library, and ends at Cermak Road near its junction with Wesley Avenue.

42 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 $200 OFF any water conditioner or iron filter! 815-544-0918 815-625-3426 The Softener Man Repair on all makes & models EXPIRES 9/30/23 COUPON MUST BE USED AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE. Serving The Area For Over 30 Years SERVICE CALL SPECIAL $59.95 SM-ST2090651 We are Lake Carroll residents Policies issued by COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company®, COUNTRY Casualty Insurance Company®, or COUNTRY Preferred Insurance Company®, Bloomington, IL. 1020-521HC_16697-5/1/2023 Rhett Coatney 105 S Broad St Lanark, IL 61046 rhett.coatney@countryfinancial.com rhett.coatney@countryfinancial.com 815-493-2544 I’ll help make sure you choose the coverage you need, so you’re prepared if you have to file a claim. Don’t be surprised at claim time. Get the right home insurance today. Life insurance policies issued by COUNTRY Life Insurance Company® and COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company®. All issuing companies located in Bloomington, IL. In IL, ID, OR, WA, NV, AK, MN, GA, TN, and AL, farm and Agriplus® policies issued by COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company®, Bloomington, IL. This information is intended to identify potential benefits of various types of insurance policies. For costs and a complete description of all insurance coverages, options, exclusions and limitations, and the terms under If you need to: We offer: Protect yourself and your car Auto insurance Protect your home and belongings Home, renters and c Gain extra protection for your financial future Personal umbrella insur Provide for your loved ones after you’re gone Life insurance Customize a plan for your business Business insurance Preserve your farm legacy Farm insurance Safeguard your crops Crop insurance As a COUNTR everything from planning your child’s future to preparing for retirement. Want to learn more? Contact me today! I Rhett Coatney Financial Advisor 105 S Broad St Lanark, IL 61046 rhett.coatney@countryfinancial.com 815-493-2544
Riverside’s water tower
{PHOTOS: CODY CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM
Hofman Tower

From this point forward toward Chicago, the trail’s right-of-way exists only in three fragments of the diagonal Fifth Avenue in Garfield Park. The first segment runs from Cicero Avenue to Harrison Street, the next runs from the southern part of the actual Garfield Park to Jackson Blvd. and Homan Avenue, and the third goes from Kedzie Avenue to Madison Street, where it goes east to today’s downtown.

Cody Cutter can be reached at 815632-2532 or ccutter@shawmedia.com

At right: A view down Madison Stree from Fifth Avenue, looking toward downtown Chicago, which can be seen in the background.

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 43 Quality Custom Built Cabinetry We provide the design expertise to make your vision a seamless reality. 207 Chesnut Ave Forreston, IL (815) 938-9016 Monday-Friday 7:30am-3:30pm www.danleewoodproducts.com Follow Us Visit Our Newly Remodeled Showroom! LAW-JONES Connecting with Family & Friends could never be more important than it is today. Call to plan ahead lawjonesfuneralhome.com (800) 525 -226 4
CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM
{PHOTOS: CODY

Independence Day at the Lake meant it was time to break out the flag-waving fashion, inflatables — and flamingo. Lauren and Maryann Buettner wore their patriotic pride from head to toe for the Fourth, joined by their four-legged friend, Miss Grigsby. Maryann designed and sewed the Flamerican quilt. Maryann has been a regular contributor to our “Life on the Lake” feature, sharing photos of family fun on the Fourth since Lake Lifestyle’s early days, appearing in each August’s issue. You can check them out at:

issuu.com/shawmedia/docs/ svm ll 080322, issuu.com/shawmedia/docs/svm lake lifestyle august 2021, and issuu.com/shawmedia/docs/lake lifestyle august2020

Thanks, Maryann, for sharing your photos of life on the lake!

44 | A Shaw Media Publication |

A Guide To Lake Carroll Real Estate

Are you looking to enjoy the Lake Lifest yle?

The following pages will show you the proper ties available to you right now!

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 45

- 2.5 BATHS - 2634 FIN SQ FT NEW PRICE $679,000

16-200R

A LAKE GREENWAY WITH A PERMITTED DOCK. Dock stays with property. Big house with 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths and 2 bonus rooms for weekend overflow

LOCATED

5 BEDROOMS - 3.5 BATHS 3104 FIN SQ FT $389,700

31-85 Country Club Ct. Enjoy country living, located near the Lake Carroll golf course and Clubhouse. Beautiful ranch home located on a private cul-de-saac.

3 BEDROOMS - 3 BATHS 3488 FIN SQ FT NEW PRICE $360,000

19-32 Hidden

DEEDED SLIP D-12 IN THE WEST MARINA AVAILABLE FOR 2023 SEASON! Completely updated and renovated property which includes all furniture, decor and appliances

4 BEDROOMS - 3 BATHS 1872 FIN SQ FT $329,000

46 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 CALL US TO LIST YOUR LAKE CARROLL PROPERTY WE HAVE BUYERS WAITING FOR YOUR PROPERTY Values have changed, call us for a FREE, NO OBLIGATION updated market value estimate for your property. Julie Wenzel Managing Broker 815-541-1001 juliewenzel@remax.net Patti Broker 815-266-4020 pattik@remax.net www.buylakecarroll.com • email us at: BuyLakeCarroll@yahoo.com TOWN LAKE & COUNTRY MARINA NEW 19-76 Timber Ridge Dr. NEW CONSTRUCTION HOME READY FOR MID TO LATE 2023! INCLUDES DEEDED SLIP E17 IN THE WEST MARINA 4 BEDROOMS - 3 BATHS - 4106 FIN SQ FT $499,000 NEW LISTING SOLD 25-57 Cottage Hill Ct. 1.6 acre waterfront property with magnificent wide views of Lake Carroll. Contemporary home with 3 finished levels and attached garage. Dock included. 3 BEDROOMS - 3 BATHS - 2,564 FIN SQ FT NEW PRICE $689,999 WATERFRONT WITH MAJESTIC LAKE VIEWS 1-64 Captains Dr. MAGNIFICENT LAKE VIEW AND BEAUTIFUL FLAT LOT TO THE LAKE! Charming home with 3 finished levels all with BIG views of the lake. 3 BEDROOMS
SALE PENDING
STUNNING LAKEVIEW BOXWOOD ON
NEW
LISTING
1.52 ACRE ON A CUL-DE-SAC Valley
NEW
SOLD New in 4 SALE PENDING
LISTING
A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 47 Wenzel Broker 815-541-1001 juliewenzel@remax.net David Peterson Broker Associate 815-238-2269 dcpeterson@remax.net Patti Kloepping Broker Associate 815-266-4020 pattik@remax.net Tom Grimes Broker Associate 815-590-7237 thomasgrimes@remax.net KNOWS LAKE CARROLL MAKE LAKE CARROLL YOUR SANCTUARY Call us to Buy or Sell 815-493-SOLD Town Lake & Country 21-78 LAKE CARROLL BLVD • LAKE CARROLL, IL #1 REAL ESTATE COMPANY AT LAKE CARROLL IN 2022 19-33 HIDDEN VALLEY DEEDED SLIP IN WEST MARINA AVAILABLE FOR 2023. Charming lake cottage with stunning sunset views. 3 BEDROOMS - 3 BATHS 2244 FIN SQ FT NEW PRICE $299,000 DEEDED SLIP 17-179 & 180 HARBORVIEW WATERFRONT WITH GORGEOUS DEEP WATER. 2 lots but sold as contiguous with 1 set of LCA dues 1.13 ACRES NEW PRICE $192,500 WATERFRONT BUILDING LOT 17-104R Hidden Cove Ct. Charming 2 story in beautiful location between the Pool Complex and the West Marina. 4 BEDROOM - 2.5 BATHS 3424 FIN SQ FT $299,000 2 GARAGES! WANT A HOME WITH A DEEDED SLIP? OUR BUILDER HAS 7 LOTS AVAILABLE FOR NEW HOMES FROM $399,000 to $599,000 1500 TO 5000 FINISHED SQUARE FT. CALL FOR MORE INFO PHILANTHROPIC SPONSOR SOLD 2023! IN FT 23-221 Brandywine New Construction Home Ready For Late Spring 2023! Includes Deeded Slip C04w In The West Marina available for 2023 season. 4 BEDROOMS - 3 BATHS 3160 FIN SQ FT $399,000 NEW LISTING SALE PENDING SALE PENDING SEASON! renovated furniture, FT 28-52 Southview Splendid custom ranch style home built on gorgeous country lot 5 BEDROOMS- 3 BATHS - 3990 FIN SQ FT $399,900 NEW LISTING SOLD 31-56 Doral Ct. New construction home ready in 2024. Includes deeded slip E17 in the west marina 4 BEDROOMS - 3 BATHS - 3808 FIN SQ FT $479,000 DEEDED SLIP
48 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 $649,500 17-148 EDGEWATER DRIVE WATERFRONT home, open concept with sliders opeing to large deck with amazing views; 0.62 acres 2.5 BATH 4 BDRM 2,688 SQFT $699,000 5-90 CHADBOURNE DR TURNKEY WATERFRONT in a quiet cove; floor to ceiling windows and fireplace with oversized garage; 0.35 acres 3 BATH 4 BDRM 2,250 SQFT $1,300,000 25-86 LAKE CARROLL BLVD WATERFRONT on a 1.67 acre flat lot. This exquisite home has a 6 car garage and is TURNKEY! 3.5 BATH 5 BDRM 4,020 SQFT $989,000 25-81 LAKE CARROLL BLVD WATERFRONT on a 2.05 acre flat lot. Open concept with amazing lake views out every window 4 BATH 4 BDRM 3,678 SQFT FawnRidgeRealty.com 815-493-2829 SM-ST2091562 maintained WOODED outdoor CONTACT WATERFRONT DEEDED DEEDED DEEDED DEEDED * 13-4 1-53 16-84 WATERFRONT • DEEDED • DEEDED • DEEDED • DEEDED • DEEDED • DEEDED • *DEEDED • DEEDED • DEEDED • $799,000 23-32 BERKSHIRE COURT WATERFRONT home in quiet bay. All the space you will need with open concept living; 1.49 acres 3.5 BATH 5 BDRM 3,292 SQFT PENDING $399,000 3-538R FAWN RIDGE RD LOG HOME nestled in a wooded cul de sac; large windows, three seasons porch and extremely well maintained; 0.54 acres 3 BATH 3 BDRM 2,443 SQFT NEW LISTING NEW LISTING
A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 49 in ceiling acres SQFT THIS MONTH’S FEATURED LOTS Take advantage of the Seller’s Market! Benefit from Limited Inventory, High Demand, and Improving Mortgage Rates. Contact Us Today for our Exclusive Seller’s Package! BARBARA HILL Broker 815-766-2758 CYNDY GRIFFIN Broker 815-238-7597 GARY SHELLHAUSE Designated Managing Broker 815-238-4368 WAYNE WILHELM Managing Broker 815-238-4541 KAYLA BLOCK Broker/Owner 815-475-8060 NICK BLOCK Broker/Owner 815-906-1701 815-493-2829 1 BATH 1 BDRM 1,060 SQFT 24-12 HIDDEN RANCH DR $299,000 TURNKEY and well maintained on 8.24 PRIVATE WOODED ACRES. Enjoy the outdoor entertaining area! $494,000 21-3 TIMBER SHORE DR $1,050,000 5-100 TOPSAIL CT THIS MONTH'S FEATURED LOTS Fawn Ridge Real Estate Co. 3-203 Association Dr. Lake Carroll, IL 61046 Complete Real Estate Services info@fawnridgerealty.com CONTACT US FOR A REAL ESTATE REVIEW 815-493-2829 PENDING PENDING $215,000 $29,000 $29,900 $29,900 $32,000 WATERFRONT l 25-60 Cottage Hill l 2.04 A DEEDED SLIP l 31-67 Wakonda Dr l 1.34 A DEEDED SLIP l 31-15 Medinah Dr l 1.07 A DEEDED SLIP l 25-73 Cottage Hill l 1.91 A DEEDED SLIP l 24-22 Hidden Ranch l 3.55 A * 13-4 Spring Creek l 0.26 A l $1 1-53 Captains Ct l 0.25 A l $1 16-84 Canteberry Dr l 0.81 A l $10 5-229 Heathcliff Dr l 0.75 A l $1,000 Buyer activity is strong and WE NEED LISTINGS. Contact any of our dedicated expert Lake Carroll brokers to discuss selling your home. make broker pictures / font larger WATERFRONT l 25-60 Cottage Hill l 2.04 A • $215,000 DEEDED SLIP l 24-22 Hidden Ranch l 3.55 A • $32,000 DEEDED SLIP l 31-15 Medinah Dr l 1.07 A • $29,900 DEEDED SLIP l 31-67 Wakonda Dr l 1.34 A • $29,000 DEEDED SLIP l 25-73 Cottage Hill l 1.91 A • $26,500 DEEDED SLIP | 24-95 Hidden Valley | 2.16 A • $25,000 DEEDED SLIP | 1-187 Old Wharf Rd | 0.52 A • $24,900 *DEEDED SLIP | 24-101 Shenandoah Dr. | 1.91 A • $24,900 DEEDED SLIP | 19-19 Timber Ridge | 1.45 A • $19,900 DEEDED SLIP | 23-4 Lake Carroll Blvd | 1.6 A • $19,500 * new listings 13-4 Spring Creek | 0.26 A | $1 17-26 Lakeview Dr. | 0.55 A | $10 *5-151 & 152 Heathcliff Dr. | 0.52 A | $10 13-173 Spring Creek | 0.52 A | $100 5-229 Heathcliff Dr. | 0.75 A | $1,000 16-3R Springcreek Dr. | 0.54 A | $1,200 17-79R Lakeview Dr. | 1.11 A | $1,500 5-35R Warwick Lane | 0.57 A | $1,500 4-57R Beachcomber | 0.52 A | $3,000 5-51R Chadbourne | 0.57 A | $3,950 26-36 Lake Carroll Blvd | 1.93 A | $7,500 19-70 Edgewood Court | 1.17 A | $11,900 31-31 Medinah Dr | 1.07 A | $12,900 12-124R Briarwood Dr. | 0.77 A | $15,500 4-172 Beachcomber Lane | 0.23 A | $19,900 24-132 Lake Carroll Blvd | 3.36 A | $19,999 17-5 Whitewater Drive | 0.69 A | $24,000 25-26 Lake Carroll Blvd | 1.95 A | $24,900 19-58 Woodland Court | 1.51 A | $27,000 23-104 Brighton Court | 1.35 A | $29,000 1-215R Old Wharf Rd | 0.75 A | $29,900 25-45 Lake Carroll Blvd | 2.04 A | $32,000 16-95R Canterberry Dr | 0.60 A | $39,900 you concept SQFT $439,000 25-18 COUNTRY HILL CT $575,000 16-213 STONEHEDGE DR. $230,000 5-176 HEATHCLIFF $349,900 1-24 OLD WHARF RD. PENDING SOLD SOLD SOLD
50 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 Doug Moll Managing Broker 815-238-3626 Aime Heldt Broker 815-291-8256 Trish Oppold Broker 815-541-7138 Margaret Rominski Broker 815-291-5269 Gary Ludwig Broker 815-541-5959 24490 Payne Rd, Shannon, IL Amy Barnes Designated Managing Broker 815-238-8360 SM-ST2091555 www.BarnesRealtyInc.com 866-493-2300 VACANT LOTS Wooded | 13-102 Quail Hollow Dr. | $2,000 Wooded | 12-245 Birchbark Ct. | $3,900 Wooded | 2-291R Park View Cr. | $19,900 Country View | 12-166 Rosewood Ln. | $5 County View | 16-170 Stonehedge Dr. | $2,000 Country View | 3-650 & 651 Fawn Ridge Dr | $10 Country View | 12-219 Spring Creek Dr | $1,000 609 E LOCUST STREET, LANARK BEAUTIFUL WOODWORK! 3 Bedrooms | 1.5 Baths | 1768 Sq. Ft. | Agent Owned 0.38 Are Lot | 2 Car Garage | $119,900 25-11 HOMEWOOD DRIVE, LAKE CARROLL NICELY UPDATED! 3 Bedrooms | 3 Baths | 2478 Sq. Ft. | Call Margaret 1.80 Acre Lot | 2 Car Garage | Move In Ready | $290,000 21-51 MARINA COURT, WATERFRONT GREAT BUILDING LOT 2.99 Acres | Clear Topside - Wooded Stem Deeded Slip B-18 East Marina | $110,000 19-67 EDGEWOOD COURT, LAKE CARROLL WOODED CUL-DE-SAC LOCATION! 3 Bedrooms | 3.5 Baths | 3911 Sq. Ft. | Call Margaret 1.70 Acre Lot | 2 Car Garage | 378 Sq. Ft. Bonus Room | $455,000 500 HOLCOMB AVENUE, MILLEDGEVILLE SPACIOUS TWO STORY! 3 Bedrooms | 1 Bath | 1938 Sq. Ft. | Call Aime H. 0.22 Acre Lot | 2 Car Garage | Well Kept | $139,900 1720 VIRGINIA AVENUE, SAVANNA ONE STORY HOME! 3 Bedrooms | 1.5 Baths | 1618 Sq. Ft. | Call Trish 0.41 Acre Lot | 4 Garage Stalls | Partially Fin. LL | $157,500 SOLD 24 W 4TH STREET, CHADWICK 2 STORY HOME ON CORNER LOT! 3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1658 Sq. Ft. | Call Amy B 0.20 Acre Lot | 2 Car Garage | 1 Stall Carport | $58,500 PRICE IMPROVED 3-406 WHITE TAIL CIRCLE, LAKE SCREENED GAZEBOO! 3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1344 Sq. Ft. | Call Margaret 0.78 Acre Lot | 2 Car Garage | Cathedral Ceiling| $240,000 SOLD SOLD SOLD PENDING PRICE IMPROVED
A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 | 51 17-199 LAKE CARROLL BLVD.` COUNTRY VIEW $239,000 • 3 bedroom • 2 bath • 2210 total sq. ft. • Built 2003 • .62 acre • Fire pit • NiCor Converted 4-117 BEACHCOMBER LAKE VIEW $229,000 • 3 Bedrooms • 2 Baths • 1980 sq. ft. • .25 Acre • Built 1988 • Turn Key sale 16-136 STONEHEDGE DR. DEEDED SLIP 19-6 TIMBER RIDGE DEEDED SLIP SOLD SOLD 31-79 COUNTRY CLUB CT. DEEDED SLIP 19-7 TIMBER RIDGE DEEDED SLIP SOLD SOLD 31-39 $1000 16-57 & 58 $10 LOTS FOR SALE $339,000 • 3 Bedroom • 3 Bath • 2318 Sq. Ft. • Built 2004 • 2 Car plus garage • 1.03 Acres • Fire pit 17-150 EDGEWATER DR. LAKE VIEW SOLD 17-110 & 109 HIDDEN COVE CT. WATERFRONT LOT $65,000 • 1.13 acres • 2 lots covered by 1 set of dues REDUCED We are in need of listings, Please give us a call for a market analysis of your home. TOM MILLER For Sale by Lake Carroll Realty www.MyLakeCarrollRealty.com OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! TOM MILLER MANAGING BROKER Cell: 815-297-4968 LakeCarrollTom@aeroinc.net $349,000 • 1.9 Acres • 79 Ft. of frontage • Shared Driveway 24-51 SADDLEWOOD LANE WATERFRONT LOT $849,000 • 4 bedrooms • 3 full baths • 2492 sq ft • built 1996 • .34 acre • 80 ft frontage • Fresh remodel WATERFRONT 4-79 BEACHCOMBER LANE 31-54 DORAL CT. $21,500 • Slip F-5 West Marina • 1.06 Acres • Available for 2023 season DEEDED SLIP REDUCED SOLD SOLD
52 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | August 2023 24565 Zier Rd, Lanark 7,000 sq. ft. Showroom Competitive Prices • Dedicated Staff Largest Accessory Dept. in the Area Quality Service from Factory Trained Technicians On Water Service • Indoor Storage • Dock & Lift Call for Your Complimentary Custom Dock & Lift Solutions (815) 493-6401 SM-ST2090404 Hottest Deals of the Season Significant Savings on All in Stock Boats Used Boats In Stock 2020 Crestliner Ridge 1700 2023 220 SLC 2003 Kayot V200 2023 200 SLC 2017 Crestliner 1650 Discovery Performance 3 Tube

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.