SUMMER 2022
SI JOHNSON Take a driving tour of places related to a baseball great Page 12
MAGAZINE
NEW ARRIVALS Downtown Utica welcomes boom of local businesses
9
Page 28
Noteworthy
Hikes
These picturesque trails make for a perfect summer day • Page 33
Additional copies at 248 W. Canal St., Utica 61373
Your Guide to Live Music & Libations in LaSalle County this Summer
CL1970227 Heritage Corridor Inside front cover
2 | Summer 2022 • Starved Rock Country
• August Hill Winery • CatsEye Wine Bar • Hegeler Carus Mansion • Heritage Harbor • The Lone Buffalo • Star Union Spirits • Starved Rock Lodge • Washington Park ...and many more!
– ILLINOIS –
EXPLORE NORTH UTICA Come enjoy all our delicious dining options from North to South including Al Fresco dining and drinking on Mill Street. From gourmet treats, wines and unique spices to antiques and specialty gifts. We have it all. Come for a day or the weekend.
2022 EVENTS May 28TH & 29TH
WILD BILL DAYS
June 11TH & 12TH
UTICA GARDEN FAIRE & PLANT SALE
June 24TH
STARVED ROCK STREET CAR CRUISE NIGHT
July 2ND LaSalle County Historical Society
CANAL MARKET 2022 SCHEDULE
August 20TH
Every Sunday June - September 10am to 4pm Handmade • Homemade • Homegrown • Vintage
September 17 & 18TH
Photos by Paula Guttilla Hatchet Canyon Photography
UTICA FIREWORKS CELEBRATION UTICA CRAFT BEER STREET FEST VINTAGE ILLINOIS WINE FEST
utica-il.gov The Village of North Utica • PO BOX 188 • Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-4111
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Inside
12
MADE IN SRC 8 12 33
WHERE CANYONS CUT THE PRAIRIE Local photographers, in their own words, share their favorite Starved Rock Country spots THE SI JOHNSON TRAIL Take a driving tour of Starved Rock Country places related to a baseball great
DINING & DRINKING 18
AMAZING GRACE Princeton welcomes the arrival of Cafe Grace
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 22
FEATURED ARTIST Shanna Dugan uses film to capture emotion and detail in her clients’ portraits
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FEATURED ARTIST Kathy Casstevens’ nature photography preserves the history and beauty of her home
MUST SEE
41
ON THE COVER They say a picture is worth a thousand words — well, they’re also one of the most popular things to do while hiking in Starved Rock Country. Here, a hiker, like many throughout the summer, cannot resist taking a souvenir selfie while standing under Lake Falls at Matthiessen State Park. Photo by Tom Sistak
4 | Summer 2022 • Starved Rock Country
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WHAT’S NEW IN UTICA Big things are happening in this small village, including the arrival of these 6 spaces
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9 NOTEWORTHY HIKES From Giant’s Bathtub to a replica canal boat, these picturesque hikes make for a perfect summer day
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’TIS THE SEASON FOR SUMMER FUN Start planning your outdoor excursions with these 8 festivals
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A HAVEN FOR NATURE & VISITORS ALIKE The Dixon Waterfowl Refuge’s 3,000 acres of restored wetlands have received international recognition and the love of locals
IN EACH ISSUE EDITOR’S NOTE ������������������������������������������ 6 POSTCARD ������������������������������������������������� 50
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| EDITOR’S NOT E |
ne of the most emotionally tolling yet important functions of a newsroom is to honor community members who have died. This can be done in a variety of ways, whether publishing obituaries written by loved ones or writing a feature that provides a detailed remembrance through family members’ stories. The latter is what I learned is called a “life story,” a profile meant to capture the essence of the person who had passed. I’m not writing this to quiz you on the inner workings of journalism; rather, I’d like to take some time to introduce you to Mike Murphy. He worked for The Times newspaper for 25 years and wrote a variety of features for Starved Rock Country Magazine: everything from mysteriously painted satellite dishes along the Mike Murphy interstate to the Illinois Valley Pistol Shrimp baseball team. The institutional knowledge he brought to our team was priceless, and I really enjoyed working with him. Mike passed away March 13. Derek Barichello, a newsroom editor who knew Mike better than me, wrote a lovely life story honoring our longtime coworker. Search “He was the glue: Friends, colleagues remember Michael Murphy” — I promise it’s worth your time. This issue is dedicated to Mike, who undoubtedly made our magazine and knowledge of the Starved Rock area better.
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The most vivid memory I have with Mike centers around baseball — which is fitting, as we’re both avid fans of the sport. We fundamentally disagreed on our respective teams; Cardinals and Cubs fans generally don’t compromise with each other on that fact. But we both supported the Pistol Shrimp at a game last summer, part of a magazine outing. Mike had written a story about the crew, and I remember being impressed by his knowledge of the team and the way he introduced himself to his various sources who were at the game. Baseball ties in to this summer’s issue of Starved Rock Country Magazine, too. Charles Stanley delved into the history and ties between the Sheridan/Norway area and Si Johnson, an MLB player who became famous for striking out Babe Ruth three times in one game at the end of his career. You can read his story on P. 12; I like how it brings together a beloved summer sport and the history of a local town. This summer edition fittingly focuses on the outdoors, from nature photographers to upcoming festivals (P. 8 and 41, respectively). Whether you’re a visitor who’s here for a quick getaway or a longtime local, I believe you’ll be able to find something new and interesting within these pages. Enjoy the beauty of the area this summer! And thank you for reading!
H
ANNAH HOFFMEISTER Editor
Starved Rock Country Magazine is published quarterly or seasonally four times per year. Shaw Media 110 W. Jefferson St. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-431-4014 starvedrockcountry.com Email photo or article submission queries to hhoffmeister@shawmedia.com. Copyright 2022. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner, without permission, is prohibited. Vol. 10 No. 2 Summer 2022 Edition 2022-05/25,000 PUBLISHER Dan Goetz EDITOR Hannah Hoffmeister GRAPHICS AND DESIGN Julie Barichello PRODUCTION Rhonda Dillon CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Julie Barichello Stephanie Jaquins Ryan Searl Charles Stanley Steve Stout CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Scott Anderson Julie Barichello Stephanie Jaquins Tom Sistak Steve Stout
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| M ade In SRC |
WHERE CANYONS CUT THE PRAIRIE... Local photographers, in their own words, share their favorite Starved Rock Country spots Story by Steve Stout | Photos by photographers mentioned
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f a poll was taken among Midwestern photographers asking them to choose their favorite places to capture memorable images in Illinois, Starved Rock Country would almost certainly be one of the top locations. That guess was made from personal experience. When I first moved to the Illinois Valley in 1974, I had little knowledge of La Salle County. I had never walked the miles of wooded trails at Starved Rock State Park or stood so close to towering waterfalls. But it only took my first hike into the popular park, camera in hand, to understand the unique massive sandstone canyons, which slice the surrounding prairie, were photogenic dream scenes for nature and family photographers. My love for this community began with landscape images I captured throughout Starved Rock and within its magnificent, rustic lodge. However, it didn’t take me long to explore (and appreciate) the other local parks, the shores of the Illinois River, the historic Illinois & Michigan Canal and the many classic buildings in such towns as Ottawa, Peru, Marseilles, Streator and Oglesby. Over the many decades since my arrival, I found the places and community events (I love the annual Burgoo Festival in Utica) here around Starved Rock provide many unique image opportunities and picturesque backgrounds for both amateurs and professionals. On the following pages you’ll meet four Starved Rock Country photographers and images that illustrate both their love of photography and appreciation of their own backyards. These photographs invite all visitors with their cameras to explore the many natural and manmade wonders found here in the heart of the Illinois Valley. The photo possibilities seem endless. Come and capture some of the beauty and community celebrations S R for yourself this summer. C
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AURORA REED “When it comes to photography, I have recently discovered working with my camera is one of those things which now has a big place in my heart. It has given me a different perspective of the world and to enjoy the little things in life through the lens of my camera. I started to get an interest in photography towards the beginning of COVID when we first went into quarantine and since then, as a junior, I have joined the La Salle-Peru High School yearbook as a staff photographer. I began with using my mother’s cell phone and taking pictures of sunsets, my family, friends and small things that caught my eye until I eventually bought my first camera at a pawn shop in Spring Valley. I now carry it everywhere with me. “One of my favorite spots to photograph is the woods in Oglesby here in Starved Rock Country not far from my home. It’s easily accessible, and I have found exploring nature through photography to be a worthwhile venture for me. My dream these days is I hope to become a professional photographer someday and travel the world to capture all the world’s greatest eye-catching images. I will always be grateful to have started that career here in my home community where the photo possibilities seem endless.”
ANNETTE BARR “When photographing couples and families in Starved Rock Country, I’m always on the lookout for a beautiful location that’s just an easy walk from nearby parking. Council Overhang at Starved Rock State Park checks those boxes and then some. The 400 million-year-old sandstone formation awaits after just a 10-minute hike from a nearby parking lot. For those who have never experienced the natural band-shell with superior acoustics, it really is awe-inspiring. Used as a sacred Native American gathering place for 8,000 years, Council Overhang was the perfect place to capture this surprise engagement. “Photography has been a passion of mine ever since I would pose and photograph my Cabbage Patch Kids collection with my Kodak Disc camera. I believe in capturing relationships between loved ones and creating beautiful wall art to hang in my clients’ homes. A photograph has the power to let the subjects relive the experience every time they view that image on the wall, in an album or online. Celebrating those connections is incredibly important in a world that can feel so isolating. I feel fortunate to work and live in such a beautiful area where there are plenty of outstanding scenic locations to use as backdrops for my professional and personal images.”
PAULA GUTTILLA “My passion for photography began when I was age 10 when I received my first camera. I love being out in nature. Looking through a lens enriches the experience by making me slow down and focus on my surroundings. There is so much beauty in life. “The best thing I personally enjoy about photographing Starved Rock Country are the comments I receive from the public. Here are a few examples: ‘Wow, the local area certainly has a lot of beauty!’ or ‘Your photos certainly show how pretty it is here along the Illinois River.’ There are a lot of great places here in Starved Rock Country to hike or drive to within a short distance from each other. One of my favorite places to photograph is Illinois Canyon, located near the eastern entrance to Starved Rock State Park. I especially enjoy the sandstone canyon in late April when it is carpeted with Virginia bluebells. Other wildflowers that one may find on the isolated path are red trillium, Dutchman’s-breeches and squirrel corn, to name a few. The trail winds along a peaceful stream which ends in a charming flowing waterfall. Go there, see for yourself and do not forget your camera.” Starved Rock Country • Summer 2022 | 9
“I have found exploring nature through photography to be a worthwhile venture for me.” – Aurora Reed
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TOM SISTAK “There are so many interesting places and events to photograph here in Starved Rock Country and — with my 30 years with The Times newspaper as Photo Editor — I’ve pretty much photographed them all. If I had to choose what I enjoy photographing the most, beyond a doubt, it would be the La Salle County 4-H Fair. There are so many Norman Rockwell-type moments at this five-day event and I never tire of photographing them. To watch the young kids lead their cow, hog or sheep to the show ring is something to see. It is so interesting visually to photograph them preparing their entry in the livestock barn hoping to take home that coveted blue ribbon. And it is not just about farm animals; it is also nice to see them competing in the best vegetable display or best homemade dress. The action-packed rodeo might just be my favorite part of the fair. My photo suggestion is: If you want to take a trip to find the farm life images, grab your camera and head to the photogenic fair which is scheduled for July 14-17 in Ottawa at the 4-H Fairgrounds. I guarantee you will get some interesting shots.”
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The
TRAIL Story by Charles Stanley | Photos by Tom Sistak
Take a driving tour of Starved Rock Country locations related to a baseball great
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n the annals of sports history, Si Johnson’s place is secure. On May 26, 1935, Johnson, then a pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds, struck out the legendary Babe Ruth three times. Ruth left his next — and last — game early with a sore knee and retired not long after. But in the area of Sheridan, in the northeastern part of Starved Rock Country, Johnson is still fondly remembered as a local boy who did good.
As a permanent reminder, the town’s main street was renamed Si Johnson Avenue. Mementos of his life are on display at the town’s library and in nearby Norway.
SI JOHNSON’S LIFE Silas Kenneth Johnson was born in 1906 on a farm in rural Danway, a few homes and a general store along an old stagecoach trail that merged with Route 71, itself a former stagecoach trail. His father, Nels, a farmer,
Professional baseball player Si Johnson lived in this home in Sheridan at 600 W. Church St. Today it is a private residence. 12 | Summer 2022 • Starved Rock Country
was at one time a semipro catcher who taught his son how to pitch. Si is said to have honed his hurling ability by hunting rabbits and squirrels with rocks. Johnson graduated from Newark High School and got involved in professional baseball in 1928 after reading a local newspaper article about a tryout camp that drew 81 hopefuls in Rock Island. During his career, and with some time off for service in the U.S. Navy during World War II, Johnson pitched for 17 seasons with the Cincinnati Reds, St. Louis Cardinals, Philadelphia Phillies and Boston Braves. In the offseason, Johnson helped his brother run the general store in Norway. In January 1939, the ballplayer Dizzy Dean, who was Johnson’s roommate when he was with the Cardinals, told of his visit to Norway. In a throwback to Johnson’s youthful hunting with rocks, the duo went out rabbit hunting, only this time with different ammunition.
“All we had was a pocketful of baseballs, but we got 10 of the 12 rabbits we saw,” Dean claimed in a Jan. 11, 1939, newspaper article by the Trenton Evening Times. “I got nine — Si one.” At the end of his career in 1947, Johnson had a record of 101 wins, 165 losses, 108 complete games, 13 shutouts, 15 saves, 840 strikeouts and a 4.09 earned run average, according to Baseball Reference. Johnson returned to Sheridan, his home since 1935, and worked for years as an engineer at the Sheridan Correctional Center south of town. The fans never forgot Johnson. Each week he fulfilled scores of autograph requests and regularly distributed photos he had printed at his own expense and refused to charge for. At baseball shows he refused to charge for his autograph. Johnson died in 1994 at age 87 and is buried in nearby Elerding Cemetery alongside his wife, Doris, who died in 1986.
A display of memorabilia about the life of professional baseball player Si Johnson is on display at the Robert Rowe Public Library in Sheridan.
3 WAYS TO PLAY!
K AYAKMORRIS KAYAK
THE SI JOHNSON SUMMER SATURDAY TOUR Midday on a summer Saturday is the best time to take a trip to get a feel for Si Johnson’s life in Starved Rock Country. It’s the only day when all three displays about Johnson’s life are open around the same time. Start around noon at the Robert W. Rowe Public Library at 120 E. Si Johnson Ave. in Sheridan. It is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. You don’t have to go far to meet up with Johnson’s legacy. In the library lobby is a locked display case featuring photos, baseballs and other memorabilia on Johnson’s career. The library also has a slim binder that can be requested at the circulation desk, containing information about Johnson’s life. Head west on Si Johnson Avenue about a half mile to S. Dwight Street where you turn left and go one block south. At the northwest corner with Church Street — 600 W.
Church St. — is Johnson’s longtime home. It’s now a private residence, so look, but don’t ring the doorbell. Head east down Church Street a few blocks to Robinson Street, where you turn right. Head south for about a mile past the Sheridan city limits where the roadway becomes La Salle County Highway 3. On the right you will pass the Sheridan Correctional Center, where Johnson used to work. In the next 4 curvy miles you will cross U.S. Highway 52 and then arrive at Illinois Route 71 where you’ll find yourself in the tiny town of Norway. Founded in 1834, Norway’s claim to fame is it is the oldest permanent Norwegian settlement in North America. You don’t need addresses to find your way around Norway. The white, steepled Hauge Lutheran Church is part of the Norsk Museum, which is open 1-5 p.m. on weekends June through
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Starved Rock Country • Summer 2022 | 13
MEMORIES By Hannah Hoffmeister Ralph Johnson knew Si Johnson in a different light — the famed pitcher was his coach.
Norway Store proprietor Gabe Borchsenius sits in the Si Johnson booth where diners can bask in the glory of the memory of the professional baseball player. September. Although the museum is mainly devoted to the early lives of its Norwegian pioneers, there is a display about Johnson and his baseball career. Across the street from the museum is the Norway Store, the same one where Johnson worked and was visited by Dizzy
Dean. The store, owned by the Borchsenius family since 1848, sells groceries and a unique assortment of Scandinavian products. There also is a dining area with a row of booths, the last of which features a display of Si Johnson photos and S R information. C
He played his 1955 and 1956 seasons under Johnson for Junior American Legion Baseball. Under his easygoing demeanor and instruction, the 1956 team was ultimately crowned the second-best team in Illinois that year. “We had a Cinderella team,” says Johnson, who shares a name but no relation to his former coach. Johnson remembers Si as a “quiet, unassuming, typical Norwegian.” According to Johnson, during the game that made his coach a wellknown pitcher — when he struck out Babe Ruth three times — Si “hoped he hit a home run.” (Newspaper articles from the time back that memory up.) There were “no airs there for doing what he’d done,” says Johnson of Si’s career. A catcher, Johnson occasionally squatted behind the plate while the former MLB pitcher stood at the mound. “Si never missed that glove,” Johnson remembers.
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SHERIDAN READIES
150
TH
ANNIVERSARY
CELEBRATION By Charles Stanley
With the theme of “Searching the Past to Embrace the Future,” the Sheridan Community Club is developing a four-day lineup of events to celebrate the town’s 150th anniversary July 1-4, culminating with a fireworks show. With more to come, here are the preliminary plans.
FRIDAY, JULY 1
• 7:30-11:30 p.m.: performance by live band “Cadillac Groove”
SATURDAY JULY 2
• Fox Hollow River Tubing will host a “Historical Float on the Fox” and a “Family Float” on the Fox River. • 10 a.m.-2 p.m.: the Sheridan Historical Society Museum will be open • Welcome Burger event will be held in the park. • There will be an outdoor movie in the park at dusk.
SUNDAY, JULY 3
• 8 a.m.-noon: breakfast at the historic Sheridan Elevator • 9-10 a.m.: church service in the park will be held • 10 a.m.-2 p.m.: the Historical Society will be open and displaying the contents from the 1972 time capsule, along with the items for the next time capsule. There will also be 150th-anniversary cancellations at the post office at the same time. • 11 a.m.-4 p.m.: open house at the fire department. A light lunch will be served.
• 10 a.m.-3 p.m.: don’t miss the “business walk,” for which maps will be available • 1-3 p.m.: carriage rides available • 3 p.m.: “Mayors of the Past” will be presented. Six individuals will portray previous Sheridan mayors and conclude with current Mayor Maggie Strothman.
MONDAY, JULY 4
• 8 a.m.-noon: craft show vendor displays • 9-11 a.m.: kiddy tractor pull • 10 a.m.-4 p.m.: petting zoo, mechanical bull, zip line and Euro bungee jump available. The Friends of the Library’s book sale will be held at the same time. • The 150th-anniversary parade starts with a lineup at 10:30 and the official start at noon. It will be followed by a car and tractor show. • 10 a.m.-4 p.m.: the Historical Society will be open with the exception of noon-1 p.m. for the parade • Food will be served at the Calico Cafe, Sheridan Elevator and American Legion. • 2-3:30 p.m.: toilet bowl races • 5 p.m.: food trucks open • 6-9 p.m.: “Whiskey Romance” performance at the Sheridan Elevator • Fireworks at dusk by Mad Bomber
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| Di n i ng & Dr inki ng |
AMAZING
Grace M PRINCETON WELCOMES THE ARRIVAL OF CAFE GRACE Story and Photos by Stephanie Jaquins
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arci Salzmann’s flair for Midwest comfort food has arrived in Princeton. In January, she opened Cafe Grace at 1009 N. Main St. Salzmann learned to cook from her husband, Eran, who has owned Cafe 129 in Sheffield since 2008.
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“I followed in my husband’s footsteps,” Salzmann says. While the concept of Cafe Grace is the same as Cafe 129, visitors will find the menu is different. “Certain staples like our bread pudding or our mashed potatoes that we’re known for, you still have to go to Sheffield to get those,” she says. She aims to introduce new customer favorites in Princeton, such as her citrus-glazed salmon, chorizo- and shrimp-topped pork ribeye with garlic honey cilantro cream sauce, and breaded chicken Parmesan baked over noodles for dinner. Lunch favorites include a jumbo tenderloin; an apple, ham and Brie panini with apple butter; and the turkey Rachel, which is a turkey sandwich on marble rye with Swiss cheese, coleslaw and thousand island dressing. You’ll also find breakfast, soup, salad and Sunday brunch. When customers visit her restaurant, Salzmann hopes they find it cozy. The dining area is split into three spaces, each with a large black chandelier. The larger middle space has a wide, brick fireplace. “We receive lots of compliments on the structure of the building,” she says. The building is what drew Salzmann to Princeton. “I happened to see the place for lease. I said, ‘Let’s go check it out.’ It looked like a cool building from the outside,” she notes. “Once inside, I thought it would be awesome.”
808 LaSalle Street, Ottawa, IL
815.324.9549
Starved Rock Country • Summer 2022 | 19
CAFE GRACE 1009 N. Main St., Princeton 815-872-4000 Facebook: Cafe Grace
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Built in 1910, the one-story Arts and Crafts Mission Revival structure was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. Initially a meeting house for Princeton’s chapter of the American Woman’s League, it was later owned by the city from 1920 to 1980. It has been privately owned since. The cafe is named after Eran’s greatgrandmother Grace, who loved to cook. In researching the history of the building, however, they also found a former member of the American Woman’s League, one who was very active in the organization, was also named Grace. So the name feels like a good fit all S R around. C
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Artist
| Arts & Entertainment |
SPOTLIGHT
SHANNA DUGAN Local artists invigorate the community with thoughtful, creative pieces. Each issue, Starved Rock Country Magazine and Starved Rock Country Community Foundation are partnering to highlight artists and their work.
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hanna Dugan’s work is captured on film. Not the cinematic kind of film — the kind involving a darkroom. Dugan, a photographer since 1998, captures portraits on film for families and seniors. “I learned on the principle that creating an amazing photograph was worth taking time to make it amazing,” she says. “I much prefer the look, feel and romance of film, especially for portraits.” Her studio and darkroom are located in Peru’s historic Westclox Building, which is home to many talented artists and their craft. Dugan is also in the process of opening a community darkroom this year. The challenge with that, she notes, “will be balancing my own creativity while helping others discover and strengthen theirs.” Creativity is not in short supply for her, however. Dugan has been experimenting with new film techniques, including what she calls “film soup”: mixing “household chemicals into the developing process for wildly unpredictable results.” (See photo 3 for an example!) “I’ve embraced my artistic nature since I was a young child,” Dugan says. “As a teenager, my parents knew if they came home to the smell of paint, I had probably painted yet another mural on my bedroom walls.” An active member of Starved Rock Country’s bustling arts community, Dugan has lived in the area since 2003 and since raised her children here. Her work is available at her studio, Open Space Art Gallery & Studios in Ottawa and other regional shows, she notes. Dugan has taken classes and lessons beyond photography, including ceramics, fiber art and drawing. “Art incorporates music, cinema, books, as well as visual arts,” she says. “Art boosts our morale, S R our brainpower, our empathy as well as our society.” C
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DETAILS OF SHANNA DUGAN’S WORK To purchase or learn more about her creations, visit www.photographybyshanna.com and her Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
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1. Succumbing: 35mm photograph, 8x12, available through her studio 2. Butter Dreams: 35mm photograph, freelensed and printed on silk “paper,” 11x14 matted and framed, $210, available for purchase from Open Space Art Gallery & Studios in Ottawa 3. Winter Magic: 35mm photograph developed with “film soup” method and printed on luster paper, 8x10 matted and framed to 11x14, $40, available through her studio 4. Love Wins: 35mm double exposure photograph printed on luster paper, 8x10 matted and framed to 11x14, $40, available through her studio
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ABOUT THE ARTIST Shanna Dugan uses her film camera to create meaningful, emotion-filled portraits of families and individuals in the Starved Rock Area. Her studio and darkroom are based out of the Westclox Building in Peru. Learn more at www.photographybyshanna.com.
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LIVE THE HARBOR L I F E
24 | Summer 2022 • Starved Rock Country
Artist SPOTLIGHT
KATHY CASSTEVENS Local artists invigorate the community with thoughtful, creative pieces. Each issue, Starved Rock Country Magazine and Starved Rock Country Community Foundation are partnering to highlight artists and their work.
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he name of Kathy Casstevens’ recent photography exhibit tells you exactly what this Starved Rock Country artist captures. “The Art of Loving Where You Live” was on display at NCI ARTworks Gallery in March. “This show was an amazing culmination of how I’ve taken photos for so many years — it really showed how photos capture time and give us lasting memories of little things and big things in our life and in the world around us,” Casstevens says. “I am so proud of how the show/gallery turned out.” As the marketing manager of Starved Rock Lodge and White Pines Lodge,
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Casstevens’ photography lends itself toward nature, particularly at Starved Rock, Matthiessen and Buffalo Rock state parks. In the early days of her job, she says, “The first thing I did was to take photos of every canyon in every season so I could replace all of the artwork in all of our hotel rooms and cabins.” Now more than 15 years later, the photos “have brought joy to our guests for many years.” From owning her first camera in middle school to working on yearbook and newspaper staffs in high school and college, Casstevens has a deep and longstanding appreciation for her chosen medium of expression. “It has been amazing to see how easy photography
has become over the years. However, capturing an image is different than taking a photo,” she says. “Many people have told me that I have a great ‘eye’ and I appreciate that.” In addition to getting outside with her camera, Casstevens enjoys gardening; collecting nutcrackers; spending time with her dad, Jim Spitzmiller; and photographing weddings with her daughter, Stephanie Baiocchi. “Most of the time, we’ll be standing side by side with cameras in hand at a wedding and each of us takes a different photo,” she says. “Everyone has a different way of seeing the world and that’s what make S R photography so interesting.” C
DETAILS OF KATHY CASSTEVENS’ WORK
3
To purchase her creations or learn more, visit www.kathycasstevensphoto.com or her social media pages.
3. Conquering Bear plays his Native American flute at Ottawa Canyon in Starved Rock State Park.
1. Lady Victory: Stephanie Casstevens Baiocchi at St. Louis Canyon in the winter with a frozen ice fall at Starved Rock State Park
4. The Barn in Winter: taken at Senica’s Oak Ridge Golf Course in La Salle
2. Pelican at Sunrise: taken at Starved Rock State Park
6. Virginia Bluebells at Illinois Canyon: taken at Starved Rock State Park
5. Psychedelic Stream: artistic photography at Starved Rock State Park
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ABOUT THE ARTIST Kathy Casstevens captures the beauty of her environment with nature photography; she also works with her daughter to photograph weddings. Her photography is shared with visitors of Starved Rock Lodge and White Pines Lodge, where she serves as marketing manager. Learn more at www.kathycasstevensphoto.com.
Photo by Sandra Rust
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Starved Rock Country • Summer 2022 | 27
| Must See |
WHAT’S NEW
Big things are happening in this small village, including the arrival of these 6 spaces Story by Ryan Searl | Photos by Tom Sistak and Scott Anderson
T
wo minutes from the entrance of Starved Rock State Park and just a short drive from Interstates 80 and 39, you’ll find a true hidden gem: the village of North Utica. This canal town, steeped in rich history and beautiful nature, features some of the best pub-style dining and boutique shopping that north central Illinois has to offer. Within this past year, the picturesque village has seen some exciting new developments. Take a look at what’s new in the “Gateway to Starved Rock.”
28 | Summer 2022 • Starved Rock Country
in Utica
BRUCE & OLLIE’S 166 Mill St. | www.BruceAndOllies.com Feel like having an artisan ice cream while visiting downtown Utica? Bruce & Ollie’s is the I & M Canal region’s newest ice cream parlor, featuring a wide variety of delectable hand-scooped flavors alongside a selection of craft beverages and grab-and-go food options. Located inside the village’s historic hardware building, this mom-and-pop shop exudes ambiance, featuring original stone walls, exposed beams and a cozy fireplace surrounded by plenty of comfortable seating options. On the menu you’ll find salads, soups, charcuterie boards, sandwiches (hot and cold) and breakfast offerings, alongside drinks like espressos, iced coffees and teas.
HERITAGE CORRIDOR WELCOME CENTER 248 W. Canal St. | www.heritagecorridorcvb.com
COUNTRY KIDS PRODUCE MARKET Corner of Clark and Water streets Facebook: Country Kids Produce Country Kids Produce, owned by local growers the Michelini family, has been a hit in its nearby Peru farm store for nearly three decades. Now the brand is expanding to add a beautiful new market. You’ll find a small red barn, a silo-style stand and plenty of outdoor retail space for fruits, vegetables, flowers and seasonal decor — all on a beautiful, accessible elevated river rock platform. The inaugural 2022 season is expected to start in June and continue through the holiday season, giving visitors even more options to find locally grown produce and products. Country Kids is always a favorite destination for finding fall goods. From its famous homegrown pumpkins to vast stock of chrysanthemums, you’ll be sure to find beautiful decor. Country Kids Produce also carries a selection of canned goods, including jams, jellies and pickled products. The selection of metal home decor makes for excellent souvenirs, adding a splash to your home or garden.
Pay a visit to the brand-new Heritage Corridor Welcome Center in downtown Utica! Located a block away from the bustling downtown Mill Street, this informational center and gift shop is the perfect first stop before you start exploring nearby Starved Rock State Park. It features a curated section of items made by Illinois makers and artisans, along with all the useful information you need to plan your stay in Starved Rock Country and the I & M Canal Corridor. Inside you’ll find beautiful, artisan-made walking sticks, pottery and greeting cards — all made in Illinois or celebrating the region. From children’s toys to bestselling accounts of local history, there’s no shortage of special items in store for you at this exciting new addition. The Welcome Center is open to the public noon-6 p.m. seven days a week.
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OBSCURITY BIER GARTEN ON THE I & M CANAL 101 W. Canal St. www.DrinkObscurity.com Elburn’s favorite Obscurity Brewing has been a popular destination for craft beverage fans across Illinois since opening its doors in 2020. Known for an innovative line of beers and meads, this growing project was developed by the creative team behind Lodi Tap House. Now, a taste of Obscurity has arrived in downtown Utica! Dubbed the Obscurity Bier Garten, this 4,000-square-foot space is located directly on the banks of the I & M Canal, right across from the Utica location of popular Lodi Tap House. Obscurity’s craft beer, mead and cider will be on tap in an outdoor space featuring reclaimed shipping containers, a grain bin and plenty of space for socializing and live music. The exterior wall of the beer garden also features a colorful mural painted by local abstract artist Jeremy Johnson.
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WEARS WELL 122 Mill St. | Facebook: Wears Well The newest addition to Utica’s popular shopping district is Wears Well, a boutique offering a unique collection of Midwestern-made, small-batch goods. You’ll find everything from comfy, relaxed clothing for the kids all the way through adult 2X, so you’re sure to find something for every member of the family. Helmed by locals Kylie and Luke Mattioda, the idea for Wears Well developed when the couple were looking to expand their growing videography business, Mattioda Media, to include a brick-and-mortar studio (now located right next to Wears Well). They came across this beautiful building on Utica’s Mill Street and saw the region could use an outdoors-inspired clothing shop. From housewares to eclectic gifts, this new storefront is a wonderful addition to Utica’s growing downtown.
THE BICKERMAN BUILDING LODGING 166 Mill St. | www.TheBickerman.com Just a short drive from Starved Rock State Park you’ll find The Bickerman Building. This recently restored storefront, originally constructed in the late 1800s, now houses two gorgeous lofted rental condos, perfect for a romantic getaway or girls road trip. Located in the heart of downtown Utica, on the same block as popular spots like August Hill Winery and directly above Bruce and Ollie’s, these luxurious units put you in the middle of this fun, quaint community.
BUILD IT ONCE BUILD IT RIGHT
Illinois’ longest operating lumberyard continues to thrive along Peru’s historic riverfront. Maze Lumber has been providing top quality building materials to Illinois Valley contractors and homeowners for 172 years, still owned by the founding fathers (Maze). Located in a 15,000-square foot showroom and office, we offer building materials for the modern home as well as a full line of the traditional lumber items used in home building, commercial construction, and industrial applications. Our experienced sales staff takes pride in their ability to provide knowledgeable assistance along with prompt delivery at reasonable prices.
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Starved Rock Country • Summer 2022 | 31
Visit these businesses and more at North Point Plaza in Streator
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S
ummer is synonymous with spending time in the great outdoors
— and options abound in Starved Rock Country for exploring nature. Below you’ll find a handful of
9Hikes Noteworthy
From Giant’s Bathtub to a replica canal boat, these hikes make for a perfect summer day
Starved Rock Country Magazine’s favorite trails and hiking destinations, complete with a key to make sure you find a hike that fits your style and needs.
HIKING GUIDE KEY
Hiking
Bicycling
Hiking Level - Easy
Hiking Level Moderate
Scenic Views & Photo Opportunities
Hiking Level Strenuous
Stairs on Trails
Inclines on Trails
Story by Julie Barichello | Photos by Tom Sistak and Shaw Media
Starved Rock Country • Summer 2022 | 33
View from Lover’s Leap Overlook
STARVED ROCK STATE PARK There’s a reason Starved Rock State Park attracts between 2 million and 3 million visitors annually. The 2,630-acre site offers an array of high sandstone bluffs and low, waterfall-dotted canyons. Each trail offers a destination worth seeing, but these three hikes are among the park’s can’t-miss locations: STARVED ROCK: No visit to Starved Rock State Park is complete without climbing to its namesake peak. To reach the park’s legendary bluff, follow signs from the Visitor Center toward the trailheads. Hikers will travel a paved, uphill trail until reaching wooden stairs, then climb about 65 steps to reach the top of the Rock. At the summit, hikers will be rewarded with an overlook of the Illinois River and surrounding bluffs.
PRO TIP: Explore Starved Rock and Matthiessen state parks on a weekday morning when there are fewer visitors. If visiting on a weekend, arrive before 10 a.m. for the best chance of entry. The parks regularly reach capacity on summer weekends and close access to additional visitors.
LOVER’S LEAP AND EAGLE CLIFF OVERLOOKS: After descending from Starved Rock, it’s worth taking the short hike to the Lover’s Leap Overlook, which stands across from the Rock and offers St. Louis Canyon a view of the historic bluff. Just beyond Lover’s Leap is the Eagle Cliff Overlook, which stands above the Starved Rock Lock and Dam. Eagle Cliff offers one of the park’s best views of a wide-open expanse of the Illinois River.
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ST. LOUIS CANYON: The 80-foot waterfall at St. Louis Canyon is one of the park’s tallest and most popular. The canyon is accessible by a 1.5-mile hike from the Visitor Center — or, for a shorter hike, visitors can drive to a parking area accessible from Route 178. (The parking lot’s access road is on the east side of Route 178, immediately north of the entrance to Grand Bear Resort.) Some of the park’s other notable waterfalls can be found in Ottawa, Kaskaskia, La Salle, French and Wildcat canyons.
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MATTHIESSEN STATE PARK The Dells area of Matthiessen State Park provides a temperate escape at the height of summer heat waves — the temperature in the canyons is several degrees cooler than trails on higher ground. The Dells follow a shallow creek that connects Matthiessen Lake to the Vermilion River. Expect to get your socks and feet wet when exploring the canyons — be sure to wear clothing and footwear that can withstand mud and slick surfaces. UPPER DELLS: The Upper Dells loop offers picture-perfect destinations. Start a hike by heading down the wooden stairs from the parking lot, crossing the bridge and turning right toward the Upper Dells trail. A wooden staircase leads down into the canyon, where hikers can cross the creek on an Instagram-perfect stepping stone trail. (There are other spots along the trail where hikers will have to cross the creek using strategically placed rocks or walking through shallow water.) The Upper Dells loop leads to the Giant’s Bathtub, where visitors will find cascades emptying into a plunge pool. From Giant’s Bathtub, hikers can ascend the cascades’ stone outcroppings and follow the creek north to Lake Falls, which flow beneath one of the park’s iconic arched concrete bridges.
Upper Dells trail
LOWER DELLS: The gem of the Lower Dells is the Wishing Well, where hikers find shallow caves carved into the canyon’s stone walls, as well as Cascade Falls and its plunge pool. The acoustics of the falling water echoing off the canyon’s sandstone overhangs is a don’t-miss PRO TIP: The creek’s experience during a Matthiessen water level can drop visit. Follow the Lower Dells trail, dramatically during cross the bridge and descend the the height of summer concrete staircase into the canyon. at Matthiessen State Be prepared for mud churned by Park. To hike when fellow hikers’ feet at the bottom the creek is higher of the stairs. Hikers will have to and the waterfalls navigate a series of wood planks are more active, visit and rocks to cross the creek before shortly after rainfall. the canyon opens to Cascade Falls.
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Daniels pioneer cemetery
ILLINOIS & MICHIGAN CANAL STATE TRAIL The Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail stretches 61.5 miles from La Salle to Rockdale, with about 40 miles of trail crossing Starved Rock Country from La Salle to Morris. Originally traversed by mules to haul canal boats, the retired towpath now offers recreational opportunities for bicyclists and hikers.
DAYTON BLUFFS PRESERVE This 253-acre nature preserve is adjacent to Ottawa, making it an ideal location for travelers who want to spend a few hours in nature before heading downtown for shopping and dining. The preserve, accessible from Route 71, is about a 10-minute drive from downtown Ottawa and less than a mile from Interstate 80’s Exit 93. Trails loop hikers around 100 acres of restored Illinois prairie, atop wooded ravines and along Prairie blooms the Fox River. NORTH TRAIL: As one of the preserve’s longer loops, this path provides a sampler of the scenery Dayton Bluffs has to offer. Following the trailhead north from the parking lot, hikers have the opportunity to view wooded acres to the left and blooming prairie to the right. At the northernmost end of the trail is a historical point of interest: the Daniels pioneer cemetery, with graves dating back to the 1830s. RIVER LOOP TRAIL: For a more vigorous hike, follow the preserve’s River Loop trail. Hikers will follow the same trailhead north from the parking lot but eventually branch northwest into the woods, following a narrow dirt path along the ridge overlooking the Fox River. Hikers will notice rolling hills PRO TIP: Looking for to the right as they walk the a hiking experience ridge — these are actually packed with scenery 1,000-year-old Native American but low on crowds? burial mounds. The River Loop Dayton Bluffs includes one strenuous, steep Preserve avoids the descent to the riverside and a congestion of the moderately steep ascent on the area’s larger parks. return to the parking lot. 36 | Summer 2022 • Starved Rock Country
EXPLORE BY BICYCLE: I & M Canal trail One of the quickest and Fox River aqueduct most efficient ways to explore the length of the I & M Canal trail in Starved Rock Country is on wheels. Cyclists can bring their own bike or rent one at one of several locations. On the region’s eastern edge, an I & M Canal bike rental station is located at Canalport Park along Illinois Avenue in Morris. Farther west, rentals are available at the southwest corner of Canal and Clark streets in Utica and at the Lock 16 Cafe & Visitor Center in La Salle. For information, visit www.iandmcanal.org/ bike. NOTABLE LANDMARKS: The canal trail links six communities in the area: La Salle, Utica, Ottawa, Marseilles, Seneca and Morris. Several memorable landmarks can be found in and near these communities: n I & M Canal boat, La Salle: The Volunteer is a replica mule-pulled boat that offers rides on the canal. The 2022 season begins May 21. n Split Rock, La Salle: This historic railroad tunnel cuts through the bluff on the opposite bank of the canal between La Salle and Utica. n Rail Splitter replica canal boat and Toll Collector’s Office, Ottawa: Hikers can get a look at a stationary replica canal boat alongside the trail as well as the former Toll Collector’s Office. n MJ Hogan Grain Elevator, Seneca: The Hogan Grain Elevator, also known as Armour’s Warehouse, was built in the early 1860s and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Volunteer mule-pulled I & M Canal boat
Starved Rock Country Welcome Center An Illinois Made Gift Shoppe
248 W. Canal Street; Utica
Featuring gifts of all kinds from across Illinois, including local favorites • August Hill Winery / Illinois Sparkling Co. • Cajun Connection • Fine Field Pottery • Hegeler Carus Mansion • LaSalle Canal Boat • Ottawa Visitors Center • Tangled Roots Brewing Company • Starved Rock Lodge
Open Daily Noon to 6:00 p.m. HeritageCorridorCVB.com
facebook.com/StarvedRockCountryWelcomeCenter
Starved Rock Country • Summer 2022 | 37
Downtown Ottawa Beautiful Downtown Ottawa JOBST MONUMENTS & GIFTS UNIQUE INDOOR & OUTDOOR GIFTS
Lush plantings and butterfly gardens line streets filled with boutique shops and modern eateries. Come spend the day with us!
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Gifts That You Will Love For a Lifetime! Spouse, hostess, baby or dog, we’ll help you find the perfect gift for any occasion! We Specialize in Handmade Gifts, Art and Custom Framing plus a great selection of greeting cards and chocolate Come Browse Our Store or Shop Online with Curbside Pickup
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Starved Rock Country • Summer 2022 | 39
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’Tis the season for
SUMMER FUN
START PLANNING YOUR OUTDOOR EXCURSIONS WITH THESE 8 FESTIVALS Story by Ryan Searl | Photos by Shaw Media
It’s no small secret that Starved Rock Country is home to some of the best fests in the Midwest! Join us as we explore eight highly anticipated summer events. This is just a small sampling of the exciting activities coming to the area; for more great events, be sure to visit www.starvedrockcountry.com and follow on Facebook at Starved Rock Country. STREATOR FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL AND ARTISAN MARKET Noon-7 p.m. May 21 at Streator City Park www.streator.org
This popular festival, held at picturesque Streator City Park, is promising to be a banner event for visiting foodies. The Illinois food truck scene has grown substantially over the past few years, with trucks offering increasingly niche and delicious menu items. The Streator Food Truck Festival brings a selection of the best mobile chefs in the business to this historic downtown. The Walldogs committee, the Streator organization responsible for the many beautiful community murals, decided to bring this event back for 2022 with an added artisan vendor market, which will feature a curated selection of locally made crafts, artwork and decor. Follow the Streator Food Truck Festival Facebook page to get a sneak peek at some of the trucks!
WILD BILL DAYS
OTTAWA TWO RIVERS WINE FEST
“Wild Bill” Hickok, the legendary folk hero and gunfighter, once again will be honored in the streets of downtown Utica at the La Salle County Historical Society’s Wild Bill Days. Located just a few miles southeast of his birthplace in present-day Troy Grove, the two-day, family-friendly festival will feature live historical reenactments, blacksmith demonstrations, an old-time medicine show and free, live entertainment. The festival celebrating Hickok’s lasting legacy is geared at entertaining diverse age groups with free shows. A troupe of historical reenactors, the Old West Regulators, will present vignettes of Hickok’s life, while the Historical Society will feature a special exhibit of authentic Wild Bill artifacts.
For many, the Ottawa Two Rivers Wine Fest marks the official start to the summer event season in Starved Rock Country. This crowd-pleasing fest pairs together the finest wines, craft beer and spirits from across Illinois, with top live musical acts, both local fan favorites and national tours. This year’s Wine Fest is slated to feature more than a dozen of Illinois’ top wineries, craft beer and spirits producers — including returning favorites like August Hill Winery, Sable Creek Winery and West of Wise Winery, along with new faces like Star Union Spirits and Destihl Brewery. In addition to an amazing selection of artisan adult beverages, the festival will host three full days of live music, including some of Illinois’ favorite independent artists. Featured artists include Nick Leet (of Minneapolis’ acclaimed High on Stress band), the Dan Hubbard Band, Miles Nielsen and the Rusted Hearts, and the acclaimed alt-country outfit Backyard Tire Fire. You can reserve your tickets online.
1-5 p.m. May 28-29 in downtown Utica www.lasallecountyhistoricalsociety.org
June 3-5 in the Jordan Block of Ottawa www.ottawawinefest.com
Starved Rock Country • Summer 2022 | 41
OGLESBY SUMMER FUN FEST
June 16-19 at Oglesby’s festival grounds, 110 E. Walnut St. www.oglesbyfunfest.com The fan-favorite Summer Fun Fest features four days of free live entertainment, a beer garden, townwide garage sales, a craft and vendor show, a sprawling carnival, food vendors, sweet treats and an amazing fireworks finale. Kids activities will include a foam party, live magic acts, an all-ages DJ and a face painting station. Among this year’s live music acts are Ethan Bell, Ultimate Eric Church tribute act, the Neverly Brothers, TNT-Chicago, Ladd Sound Productions, The Bread Machine and Blank 281. J&M Displays will once again close out the event with a massive fireworks show, slated to be held Sunday starting at 9:30 p.m.
STREATOR’S 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION July 2-10 in Streator www.streators4th.org
Streator’s 4th of July Celebration is back with more than a week of family fun. This popular festival will feature fireworks, a parade, carnival, live music, food and beer vendors, a 5K and more. This year’s festival headliners include Grammy Award-winning country artist Eddie Montgomery (of Montgomery Gentry fame) and iconic ’90s alt-rock band Everclear. In addition to the great bands, Streator’s 4th of July Celebration will host central Illinois’ largest fireworks display. This year the best viewing area will be from Northpoint Field, according to the celebration’s website. For more information, follow Streator’s 4th of July Celebration on Facebook.
TASTE OF THE ILLINOIS VALLEY Aug. 4-6 at Centennial Park, Peru www.peru.il.us
Fans of food, live music and family fun will welcome back Peru’s signature summer event, Taste of the Illinois Valley. The four-day festival features activities for all ages, including local food vendors, a kids fun zone, a beer garden and craft village. No charge for admission is required for entry to the kids fun zone or to the beer garden. In past years, many local food trucks and vendors have attended the festival, including Passini’s Wood Fired Pizza, Maria’s Pizza, Mickey’s Massive Burritos and The Gunsmoke Grill, among others. There will also be a stage hosting free live musical acts, inflatables and activities for the kids and a 5K hosted by Starved Rock Runners. For more information, visit the city’s website.
Private, Gated, Recreational Camping Resort | Sublette, IL
GIVE US A CALL OR VISIT AT WOODHAVENASSOCIATION.COM | 815-849-5209 42 | Summer 2022 • Starved Rock Country
MENDOTA SWEET CORN FESTIVAL
UFPD CRAFT BEER FEST
One of Starved Rock Country’s longestrunning annual gatherings, Mendota’s Sweet Corn Festival returns for its 75th year! Held in downtown Mendota, this popular festival features a parade, carnival, food booths, craft show, flea market, beer garden, live entertainment — and, of course, free sweet corn while supplies last. Windy City Amusements is set to stage a full-size carnival midway, complete with a carousel, Ferris wheel, “sizzler,” zero gravity ride and flying teacups. A wide variety of carnival food vendors will undoubtedly be serving up your favorite classics from yesteryear. Festivities will also include the Crafter’s Market Place and Flea Market, live music on two festival stages, a beer garden, a parade and a 50/50 raffle.
This celebration of Illinois-made beverages will brings together dozens of the state’s best breweries, meaderies and cideries at Utica’s historic downtown Mill Street. This full day of libations and live music has featured fan-favorite breweries like Ottawa’s own Tangled Roots Brewing Company, Solemn Oath and 2 Fools Cider (both of Naperville), Werk Force Brewing Co. (of Plainfield) and Pipeworks Brewing Company (of Chicago), along with many more top-notch artisan establishments in past years. Best of all, this popular tasting event benefits the Utica Fire Protection District.
Aug. 11-14 in downtown Mendota www.sweetcornfestival.com
Aug. 20 in downtown Utica www.utica-il.gov
Hegeler Carus Mansion 1307 Seventh St LaSalle, IL 61301
Visit our website at www.hegelercarus.org to book a tour today and see our concert line-up! Join us starting on Friday, June 3rd to August 26th Gates open at 6:00 pm, Concert starts at 6:30 to 8:00pm Food vendor on site most nights Enjoy to outdoors at the HEGELER CARUS SUMMER CONCERTS!
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Starved Rock Country • Summer 2022 | 43
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317 E. Main Street • Streator • 3rd Floor
409 E. Main Street, Suite 3 • Streator
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Bromley & Brown Explore - Experience - Enjoy Downtown Streator 44 | Summer 2022 • Starved Rock Country
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308 E. Main St. • Streator 815.672.4772 Open Tuesday - Saturday bromleyandbrownboutique.com
WOMEN'S CLOTHING BOUTIQUE CARRYING SIZES SMALL-3XL
One stop shop for all of your gift, home goods, and décor needs. – Mother and Daughters Operated –
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NOW CARRYING INIS BODY PRODUCTS
ACCESSORIES
JEWELRY PURSES 212 EAST MAIN STREET STREATOR
815.822.1466 HOURS TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY-FRIDAY SATURDAY
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Shop the
The Queen Bee 212 E. Main St. • Streator
10AM-6PM 10AM-4PM 10AM-5PM 10AM-3PM
shopatthequeenbee.com
200 BLOCK FOR
THE
Of Streator EVERY
DAY
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THE
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F L O W E R S
Wild Hearts Boutique
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Gypsy Soul With a Cowgirl Spirit
SM-CL1970929
Thank you for voting Wild Hearts Starved Rock Country’s Finest Women’s Boutique!
214 E Main St | Streator, Illinois | 815-674-7558 facebook.com/yourwildhearts
Tues-Fri 10-5 Sat 10-3
@FLOWERSPLUSSTREATOR
815.673.3114
216 E. MAIN ST. STREATOR, IL. 61364 Starved Rock Country • Summer 2022 | 45
THE AREA’S PREMIERE GARDEN CENTER
DELIVERING QUALITY LANDSCAPING AND GARDEN CENTER SERVICES SINCE 1960
• LANDSCAPING • GARDEN CENTER • GIFT SHOP 1000 Bernstein Street Streator, IL
Like us on 815-672-8135 | danchrisnursery.com
BEEF TURKEY SHARK VENISON SALMON PYTHON ELK 105 ARMORY CT • STREATOR RABBIT 815-674-2500 CAMEL You’ve had the rest GATOR BUFFALO now try the best OSTRICH Now 2 locations to serve you LAMB WILD BOAR Opening DUCK May 2022 SWORDFISH TROUT KANGAROO PINEAPPLE BILTONG 723 S CLARK ST • UTICA DROWERS 779-237-6063 DOG TREATS Online@streatorhouseofjerky.com
Streator A Community Growing Strong!
Your Favorite Comfort Foods
Made from Scratch Anytime!
Eat where great service, great food and great folks come together!
20% OFF Your Total Order!
Must Present This Coupon! Expires 8/26/22
Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Daily Specials Homemade Desserts
The Country Cupboard 124 S. Vermillion Street | Streator | 815.672.5885 Carryouts and Delivery Available A Week | Mon-Fri 6-6 | Sat & Sun 6-2 46 | SummerOpen 2022 7• Days Starved Rock Country
617 E. Main St. Streator, IL
Sun-Thur: 4pm - 9 pm
815-672-2204
Fri & Sat: 4pm - 11 pm
j o e s p i z z a s t r e a t o r. c o m
A HAVEN
FOR NATURE & VISITORS ALIKE The Dixon Waterfowl Refuge’s 3,000 acres of restored wetlands have received international recognition and the love of locals Story by Hannah Hoffmeister | Photos by Julie Barichello and Shaw Media
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etlands, farming — and now wetlands once more. The land south of Hennepin was once full of native birds, plants and insects: what Paul Botts calls an “absolutely spectacular wetlands complex.” Then it was drained, a levee was put in, and it transformed into a dry area used for farming. Since 2000, The Wetlands Initiative has carefully restored the 3,000 acres to its natural state, removing invasive species and planting native ones in their place. The Sue and Wes Dixon Waterfowl Refuge at Hennepin and Hopper Lakes — Dixon Waterfowl Refuge, for short — is open to visitors 365 days a year from dawn to dusk. Refuge is a fitting name for many visitors. “Wetlands are really terrific for people,” says Paul Botts, president and director of The Wetlands Initiative,
noting the space is one of relaxation and renewal for many visitors. The Refuge doesn’t yet keep a tally on visitors, but Botts says the numbers “have risen significantly” since the pandemic began. It’s particularly popular for birders. The area was named an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society, and rightfully so; according to Botts, almost 40% of all bird species known to scientists in North America have been seen at least once at the Dixon Waterfowl Refuge. Among others, you may spot sandhill cranes (and their offspring!), raptors like hawks and eagles, white pelicans, swans, 22 species of ducks, and yellowheaded blackbirds (the unofficial mascot). Dragonflies in brilliant hues are popular along the boardwalk trails in the summertime. The yellow monkeyflower, along with other colorful plants, can be spotted along the Refuge’s
SUE AND WES DIXON WATERFOWL REFUGE AT HENNEPIN AND HOPPER LAKES There are two parking lots off state Route 26, south of Hennepin and east of the Illinois River. Open dawn to dusk, seven days a week
Starved Rock Country • Summer 2022 | 47
7 miles of walking trails. When restoration first started, the team was delighted to discover a rich seed bank — seeds that wait, not yet germinated, under the soil to be viable if the right conditions are met. This sped up the process of bringing back native plants. The Dixon Waterfowl Refuge is one of only 41 sites nationwide to be listed as a Ramsar Site, or Wetland of International Importance. Designated as one in early 2012 along with Illinois’ The Emiquon Complex, the Dixon Waterfowl Refuge met six of the nine criteria, according to its website, including “regularly (supporting) more than 20,000 waterbirds during migration.” “It was a big deal,” remembers Botts, who has been in his position since 2011. “It really put the Dixon Waterfowl Refuge on the map in the world of conservation.” The Wetlands Initiative is working on increasing awareness of the space, starting with the Hennepin community and branching outward. When people visit, says Botts, “So S R many are blown away.” C
u “In the Spirit of Wetlands: Reviving Habitat in the Illinois River Watershed” is a forthcoming book by Clare Howard and David Zalaznik, set to debut in July but available to preorder on Amazon. The book features information on the Dixon Waterfowl Refuge, says Botts.
Reddick
Mansion Tours:
Friday-Monday | 11-3:00pm
Mansion and Gardens
Please call for other arrangements & group tours
2022 SEASON
May 14-15, May 17-20 - “Crazy For You” June 11-12, June 14-17 - “Clue: On Stage” July 9-10, July 12-15 - “Rogers and Hammerstien’s August 6-7, August 9-12 - “Alice in Wonderland” September 3-4, September 6-9 - “Wait Until Dark” October 1-2, October 4-7 - “Get Smart” Signature Series Show: November 17-20 “Fun Home”
Cinderella”
Individual Tickets will be available online at englelane.org starting one week before the opening of each show or call our box office Mon - Sat 11-3 at 815-672-3584. Musicals: $20 • Plays: $15 • Youth 12 and under: $10
Season Ticket Plans are available. Contact the box office at 815-672-3584 for more information.
William C. Schiffbauer Center for the Performing Arts at
Engle Lane Theatre
48 | Summer 2022 • Starved Rock Country
1012 Columbus Rd., Streator, IL 61364 815-672-3584 englelane.org
O
ne of the most expensive and ornate private homes in the Midwest when completed in 1858, the Mansion was built by businessman, politician, and philanthropist William Reddick. Home to the Reddick family for nearly 30 years, the mansion anchors Washington Square, site of the first Lincoln-Douglas debate.
Join Us
for Our Annual Golf Outing, Sat. June 11th, Pine Hills Golf Club, Ottawa, IL. Visit our website for other events.
100 West Lafayette St. | Ottawa, IL 61350 815-433-6100 | reddickmansion.org
It’s All Right Here in
Downtown Morris • Bagged Coffee • Baked goods • MatCha drinks • teas & LeMonades • espresso drinks • drip Coffee
312 Liberty St., Morris 815.710.5000
• daiLy soup
TRUE NORTH
Located just 60 minutes southwest of downtown Chicago, downtown Morris, Illinois offers the amenities of its more metropolitan suburban neighbors along with small-town hospitality and charm. Come to downtown Morris and enjoy a fun day shopping for unique gifts, enjoying our restaurants and tea room, and enjoying outdoor activities. Make memories and have fun with your friends or your family as you shop, dine and enjoy!
Upscale Boutique Specializing in Quality Clothing and Accessories
10,000 square feet of fun! Antiques, vintage, makers, salvage, gifts, arcade, recycled clothing, movie theater & record shop. 539 Bedford Rd. • Morris. 815-705-0161 Open 7 days a week until 7PM www.shoptruenorth.com
215 Liberty St., Morris IL 815-942-1514
CHILDREN’S APPAREL | SIZES PREEMIE TO SIXTEEN SPECIALTY CHILDREN’S CLOTHING BOUTIQUE 218 LIBERTY ST. • MORRIS, IL 60450 SM-CL1972847
815/942-3999
DON’T MISS MORRIS’ ROCK THE BLOCKS June 26th, July 24th, Aug 28 th 11 to 5 SHOPPING • FOOD TRUCKS LIVE BAND
SM-CL1971108
Our passion is real, fresh cooked food. We cook all of this great local beef, poultry & pork over a wood burning grill & rotisserie giving a natural smoke and char distinctive to cooking over live fire. CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR HOURS OF OPERATION
701 LIBERTY STREET / MORRIS / 815.710.5006
CHOPSHOPGRILLE.COM
Monday - Friday: 10-5 APPLE BUTTER AND SHUGIE’S
309 N. Liberty St. Morris (815) 942-5093 Starved Rock Country • Summer 2022 | 49
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50 | Summer 2022 • Starved Rock Country
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These two cowpokes, Lincoln and Maverick Clodfelter, hold on as tight to each other as they do their lemon shake-ups while they stroll the grounds of the La Salle County 4-H Show and Junior Fair in Ottawa. Photo by Tom Sistak
There’s no better place in Illinois to relax with nature than at Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby, IL. There’s a hidden gem within this park called Starved Rock Lodge! When you book a room or cabin, priority parking is included! This means you can spend the night or two at an historical Lodge nestled in a serene, wooded setting just steps away from hiking trails. If you hike west, you’ll see St. Louis Canyon. If you head east you can explore French, Wildcat and LaSalle Canyons with amazing overlooks and expansive bluff views of the Illinois River Valley. A walk in the park is a sure way to take
Relax with nature at Starved Rock Lodge deep breaths and great photos. The images you’ll capture can become wall art once you return home. Take if from the wildlife who call this place home: once you visit, you’ll want to return again and again! Stay at the only Hotel in Starved Rock State Park where you can relax in our indoor pool complex, read a good book in the Great Hall or enjoy dining outdoors on the Veranda. Live music fills the air every Friday night from 8-11 pm. Another fun activity is a River Cruise on the Eagle 1. A trolley ride is part of this most popular summer tour. Music lovers can take a walk down memory lane at a Tribute to the Stars performance. Book a room or cabin and celebrate with friends, get married or have a family reunion. We’d love to help you plan a memorable getaway at a place that’s so much more than a day trip. Call our friendly staff at (800) 868-7625. Learn more about tours, guided hikes and more at: www.StarvedRockLodge.com.
One Lodge Lane | Oglesby, IL (815) 667-4211 starvedrocklodge.com
Family Reunions Single Family Vacations Romantic Couples Getaways
Familoyr Run F Over ! s 35 Year
Kishauwau’s Starved Rock Area Cabins 4.9
504 Google reviews 483 reviews
Kishauwau Cabins is your perfeCt illinois getaway to be soCially distant and unplug just 10 minutes from starved roCK state parK. we have 17 well spaCed Cabins in varying sizes that are perfeCt for your next family reunion, single family vaCation, or just a romantiC getaway for 2. eaCh Cabin offers a full KitChen, personal outdoor bonfire pit with piCniC table & grill as well as indoor wood stove or gas fireplaCe. all Cabins have Central air and are furnaCe heated. family run for over 35 years.
Perfect destination for families or couples! Open year round.
LET’S CONNECT
SCAN CODE TO SEE MORE
KishauwauCabins.com
901 N. 2129th Rd. • Tonica, IL • 815-442-8453