Starved Rock Country Magazine - Winter 2021

WINTER 2021

MAGAZINE

Snowy

SCENERY Glimpse the beauty of winter in Starved Rock Country

CLIMBING THE FALLS Local spots await ice climbing experts looking for a challenge Page 8

’TIS THE SEASON TO SHOP Get ahead on holiday purchases at Chris Kringle Market and Christkindlmarket Page 38

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Additional copies at 801 E. U.S. 6, Utica 61373

2 | Winter 2021 • Starved Rock Country

JOIN US AND CELEBRATE THE SEASON! THE OTTAWA CHRIS KRINGLE MARKET FEATURES LOCAL ARTISANS, BOUTIQUES AND RESTAURANTS IN AN OPEN AIR, EURO-INSPIRED EVENT UNDER THE TWINKLING LIGHTS OF THE JORDAN BLOCK PARK IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN OTTAWA, IL.

NOV. 26-28, DEC. 3-5, DEC. 10-12 AND DEC. 17-19 FRIDAY & SATURDAY 11AM-8PM SUNDAY 11AM-5PM FOR INFORMATION CALL OTTAWA VISITORS CENTER 815-434-2737

AF OU R

T EN WEEKEND EV

ENJOY OTHER SMALLER EVENTS THROUGHOUT DOWNTOWN OTTAWA TOO! AND DON’T FORGET THE OTTAWA CHRISTMAS FARMERS MARKET ON DECEMBER 11TH.

Starved Rock Country • Winter 2021 | 3

Inside

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MUST SEE 8

CLIMBING THE FALLS Fun, challenging spots await ice climbing experts at Starved Rock State Park

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SNOWY SEASON Visions of flurries are dancing in our heads — here’s a glimpse of the beauty of winter

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WHAT A BRIGHT TIME It’s the right time for holiday parades, which again see the light of day after last year’s cancellations

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT Local creator Jacqueline Hughes dazzles with her fabric art

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PAINTING ON TOP OF THE WORLD Laurie Ragan’s latest artistic endeavor involves creating holiday scenes on globes

MADE IN SRC 28

A BOUTIQUE AND A BAR Longtime tourism experts reveal their personal favorites in Starved Rock Country

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STARVED ROCK COUNTRY FINEST In nearly 50 categories, these businesses stood out as enjoyable places to shop, eat and visit

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’TIS THE SEASON TO SHOP Get a head start on your holiday purchases at these two outdoor markets

DINING & DRINKING

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ON THE COVER A group explores beautiful winter scenery at St. Louis Canyon in Starved Starved State Park.

Photo by Kathy Casstevens

3 STARVED ROCK COUNTRY SUBS When you have a hankering for a sandwich, consider these delicious options

IN EACH ISSUE EDITOR’S NOTE ������������������������������������������ 6 POSTCARD ������������������������������������������������� 50

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– ILLINOIS –

EXPLORE NORTH UTICA Come enjoy all our delicious dining options from North to South.

From gourmet treats, wines and unique spices to antiques and specialty gifts. We have it all.

Come for a day or the weekend.

UPCOMING EVENTS Old Fashioned Christmas in the Village - November 27th & 28th Winter Wine Walk - February 12th Mardi Gras Parade - February 26th St. Pat’s Parade - March 12th

utica-il.gov Photos by Paula Guttilla Hatchet Canyon Photography

The Village of North Utica • PO BOX 188 • Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-4111 Starved Rock Country • Winter 2021 | 5

| EDITOR’S NOT E |

here’s nothing like the first snow day of the season.

I remember the anticipation I had as a child: Would school be called off ? My siblings and I would crowd around the TV in the kitchen to watch the news, where an endless list of schools would be scrolling at the bottom to alert you to a snow day.

If we went to bed before knowing whether the next day would hold a day at school or a day outdoors, we would put an orange in the freezer and wear our pajamas inside out and backwards: traditions that would supposedly, unexplainedly ensure a snow day.

That first snow day holds so much potential — there are hills to be sledded and snowmen to be built.

We always made “snow candy,” a hot sugary mixture that froze instantly into hard candy when poured on a pile of fresh snow.

But don’t forget, I grew up in Missouri, where it snows plenty but certainly not as much as it does in Illinois, hence making snow days a special occasion.

Looking at these beautiful winter photos of the season in Starved Rock Country (P. 12) made me think about snow, perhaps in a more romanticized way than I’ll be feeling come late January. It also made me wonder: How much more would I have enjoyed the winter season if I’d had Starved Rock and Matthiessen state parks in my backyard? I could have watched ice climbers and gone cross-country skiing, two adventures which you can

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learn more about on P. 8. Although I’m past the years of school cancellations, I can say I’m still looking forward to the weekends I’ll get to spend outdoors, enjoying time in the snow and maybe even spotting some ice climbers.

How do you prefer to spend your winter? Maybe instead of playing in the snow, you’re most excited about holiday parades, watching dazzling lights set to holiday tunes. If that’s the case, check out our feature on P. 16, which details events in nine Starved Rock Country communities.

Or maybe holiday shopping is the highlight of the season. If so, I suggest heading to the Chris Kringle Market in Ottawa and the Christkindlmarket in La Salle.

Both sound like excellent ways to support local for your holiday gifts — and to snag a mug of hot cocoa while you chat with friends. The Christkindlmarket is even scheduled to host a few reindeer! Read more on P. 38.

As we approach a season of thankfulness and celebration, I want to end with a note to you, the readers. I’ve been with Starved Rock Country Magazine for more than a year now, and each magazine issue has brought interesting stories and people to my attention. I’m very grateful for your readership.

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Happy holidays!

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 2021. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner, without permission, is prohibited.

Vol. 9 No. 4 Winter 2021 Edition 2021-11/25,000 PUBLISHER Dan Goetz EDITOR Hannah Hoffmeister GRAPHICS AND DESIGN Julie Barichello PRODUCTION Rhonda Dillon CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Annette Barr Stephanie Jaquins Mike Murphy Ryan Searl Charles Stanley CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Scott Anderson Annette Barr Ryan Searl Tom Sistak

Starved Rock Country • Winter 2021 | 7

| Must See |

Participating or watching ice climbers make their way up and down the frozen falls is a popular attraction at three of the canyons at Starved Rock State Park.

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Mike Binder of Indiana starts his assent up the frozen falls at Ottawa Canyon, located at Starved Rock State Park.

CLIMBING THE FALLS

Fun, challenging spots await ice climbing experts at Starved Rock State Park

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rack open your carabiners: Experienced climbers are permitted to scale three famous falls inside Starved Rock State Park.

Since the early 1980s, Starved Rock Country has been a leading winter destination for outdoor adventurers looking to challenge Mother Nature. Every year,

Story by Ryan Searl, Photos by Tom Sistak

hundreds of experienced climbers flock to Starved Rock State Park to spend the day scaling enormous frozen waterfalls with little more than an anchor line, ice ax and helmet. Pending conditions, three possible ice falls will be open for public climbing. Once the ice climbing season officially opens, climbers must use their discretion to determine if the falls are suitably frozen.

THESE THREE ICE FALLS ARE: n LASALLE CANYON – A long, curtain-style fall, offering a milder climbing experience. n OTTAWA CANYON – Often one of the widest falls in the park; also one of the first to form in the winter. n WILDCAT CANYON – Easily the tallest fall permitted for climbing, a true highlight of the park for climbing enthusiasts.

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Climbers are required to bring their own equipment and have prior experience ice climbing or a chartered experienced guide.

All ice climbing is done at the climber’s risk, and they are required to sign in at the park’s check-in station prior to their climb, and once again upon exit.

This self-serve check-in sheet is conveniently located outside of the park’s maintenance building, across the road from the visitor center. Upon the start of the ice climbing season, which is based purely on the conditions of the ice falls, sign-in sheets as well as rules and regulations will be officially posted outside of the Starved Rock Maintenance Building.

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND Leave your skis and poles at home!

Matthiessen State Park offers a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Starved Rock Country: reasonably priced rentals for cross-country skiing.

Matthiessen State Park, located just 3 miles southwest of Starved Rock off Route 178, offers over 6 miles of beautiful, tree-lined cross-country skiing trails.

The park sports a ski rental kiosk that is open select snowy weekends, December through March.

The rental cabin is located near the shelter and fort at the park’s Dells entrance. The rental stand, operated by a third-party vendor, is open Saturdays and Sundays when an ample amount of snow is on the ground.

Ski maps are available at the rental stand and at the Starved Rock Visitor Center.

MORE SKIING SPOTS The Illinois & Michigan Canal Trail is also ideal for skiing in wintertime. This expansive trail offers more than 60 miles of flat cross-country-friendly trails.

Illini State Park in Marseilles, Buffalo Rock State Park just west of Ottawa and Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area near Morris all feature ski trails as well.

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CLIMBING THESE FALLS IS NOT FOR NOVICES. HERE ARE SOME FAST FACTS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU START PREPARING TO SCALE THEM: n The Illinois Department of Natural Resources does not test the integrity of the ice — it is entirely up to the climbers to determine suitability before their climb. n Solo climbing is expressly prohibited; you must climb with at least one partner.

Club and group climbing excursions are a very popular sight. n Ice climbing is only allowed at the park between 7 a.m. and dusk.

All climbers must be off of the trail before dark. n Mixed surface climbing or any other form of rock climbing or scaling is banned in the park. Starved Rock’s canyons consist of incredibly fragile sandstone. These surfaces are not suitable for, and can be permanently damaged by climbing equipment.

n All equipment, such as riggings, ice cleats, crampons, ice picks, rope and other harmful supplies, must touch the ice/ice falls only. n Due to ongoing damage and hazardous trail conditions, ice climbing will not be allowed at Tonti Canyon this season. n Do not wear your crampons on the wooden bridges and walkways.

ICE CLIMBING IS A SERIOUS ENDEAVOR AND SHOULD NOT BE UNDERTAKEN WITHOUT PROPER TRAINING. VIEW THESE HANDY RESOURCES BEFORE YOU BEGIN YOUR ADVENTURE: n Vertical Adventure Guides on waterfall ice climbing: www.verticaladventure.org/iceclimbing n Starved Rock State Park’s Mountain Project Page: www.mountainproject.com/ area/106656040/starved-rockstate-park n Ice Climbing Packing List: www.vertical-addiction.com/us/ blogs/blog/ice-climbing-packingS R list-the-essentials C

Mike Bularz of Roselle hops down the frozen falls after making it to the top of Ottawa Canyon.

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SEASON Photos by Tom Sistak

Visions of flurries are dancing in our heads — here’s a glimpse of the beauty of winter

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iking, cross-country skiing or simply taking the time to admire the view from your window: There are so many ways to appreciate the coldest months of the year. Photographer Tom Sistak has documented all sorts of winter scenery near Starved Rock State Park, from delicate hoarfrost to stark, snowy fields. What’s your preferred way of experiencing nature during wintertime?

1. The ice falls at Starved Rock State Park’s St Louis Canyon almost resemble a Currier and Ives scene as hikers make their way around the canyon. 2. Entering a winter wonderland, this Jeep tours the scenery along Route 71 at Starved Rock State Park.

3. These red berries on a bush at Starved Rock State Park are surrounded by ice crystals after an overnight hoarfrost.

4. Blanketed by a recent snow, this corncrib remains empty in a harvested field along Route 178, south of Starved Rock State Park. 5. The early morning light illuminates this tree south of Starved Rock State Park after an overnight hoarfrost.

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BUIL

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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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14 | Winter 2021 • Starved Rock Country

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Starved Rock Country • Winter 2021 | 15

Bright TIME

WHAT A

It’s the right time for holiday parades, which again see the light of day after last year’s cancellations

Story by Mike Murphy Photos by Scott Anderson and Tom Sistak

Parade lovers suffered last year as Starved Rock Country holiday parades were diminished or even canceled due to COVID-19, but such events are making a comeback this year.

The days following Thanksgiving will feature lighted parades, both on downtown streets and in subdivisions. Here’s what’s in store as the holidays kick off.

Marseilles Holiday Magic parade

LA SALLE

Beginning Nov. 15, motorists can drive through Rotary Park for the annual Celebration of Lights, featuring hundreds of illuminated displays.

Hours will be 5-9 p.m. weekdays and Sundays as well as 5-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and the week of the Christmas holiday. The celebration also will be open to traffic 5-9 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. Downtown La Salle will showcase its Miracle on First Street event Dec. 4. It will be connected to the city’s Christkindlmarket.

Learn more about La Salle’s Christkindlmarket and Ottawa’s Chris Kringle Market on P. 38!

MARSEILLES

“Holiday Magic,” a lighted parade, will begin Dec. 4 and will be open to all businesses, groups and individuals.

You can line up beginning at 4:30 p.m. at the Illinois Valley Cellular building.

“Light Up Knudson Park” will feature the city’s downtown park lit up and be open to viewing for pedestrians and motorists.

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MORRIS

Three days of activities will make up the city’s Home for the Holidays celebration, Friday through Sunday, Nov. 26-28.

The annual Lighted Holiday Parade will begin 5:30 p.m. Nov. 26, running on Liberty Street to the Grundy County Courthouse to Chapin Park.

Chapin Park will be lit at 6 p.m., and children can visit with Santa Claus from 6 to 7 p.m.

Friday features also will include carriage rides and craft making. A Christmas house walk will highlight Saturday activities along with a visit

by Santa and his reindeer on the courthouse lawn.

OTTAWA

Lights will be in the sky as well as on floats Nov. 26 during the city’s Festival of Lights.

The annual parade will step off 6 p.m. at Washington Square downtown and proceed south on La Salle Street to the Jordan block, where a large Christmas tree will be lit. Santa Claus once again will conclude the parade and take residence in his Jordan block house, which previously had been located in Washington Square.

Once the parade concludes, the tree will be lit and fireworks will be shot off from Ottawa High School. The big tree and pyrotechnics were introduced at last year’s fest.

“Things will be changed, but we’re doing what we can to make it great,” says Wayne Eichelkraut, city of Ottawa finance commissioner. He notes last year’s parade was called off due to the pandemic.

Washington Square once again will be festooned with lights, and parks throughout Ottawa also will offer lights displays. The annual Chris Kringle Market will begin Nov. 26 and run through much of December.

“We’ll have a lot of things going on and a lot of people involved,” Eichelkraut says.

Also in Ottawa, Reddick Mansion will present candlelight tours, 6-8 p.m.

Dec. 3 and 10. The evenings will feature the 19th-century home decorated in Victorian-era finery, including multiple Christmas trees, talks by costumed docents and other displays spread over three floors. Admission will be $10.

PERU

After a one-year absence, the city’s lighted parade will return Dec. 4.

The parade will begin and end at Washington Park.

When the parade concludes, Santa Claus will be in attendance at one of the park shelters, where his workshop activities will include refreshments, crafts and distribution of gifts.

PRINCETON

The city’s annual Christmas Walk will take place Friday through Sunday, Nov. 19-21, featuring specials, window

Princeton Christmas Walk

Ottawa Festival of Lights parade

decorations by local businesses and a craft fair.

Lighting of Princeton’s community Christmas tree will be 6-7 p.m. Dec. 3 in Veterans Park. It will be followed by a kids’ candy cane hunt in Soldiers and Sailors Park.

On Dec. 4, an 11 a.m. holiday 5K run, Christmas parade and breakfast with Santa will be highlighted. The Main Street parade will begin at 1 p.m., followed by children’s activities at Bureau County Fairgrounds.

Motorists can view the annual Home for the Holidays lights show, 5-9 p.m.

Fridays through Sundays beginning Dec. 4 at the fairgrounds. The lights display will conclude New Year’s Day.

SPRING VALLEY

The 2020 holiday parade was halted

by COVID-19, but will return this year, beginning 6 p.m. Nov. 27 on St. Paul Street.

“We’re excited to have it back, and we want people to enjoy the parade,” says Melanie Malooley Thompson, mayor of Spring Valley.

“Whoville” will be the theme of this year’s parade, which will be open to individuals, groups and businesses.

It will conclude with the lighting of the community Christmas trees. Live entertainment and refreshments are also scheduled to be part of the fun.

The same day, Spring Valley

La Salle’s Celebration of LIghts at Rotary Park

merchants also will observe Small Business Saturday.

Wolfer’s Grove subdivision on Spring Valley’s northwest end will be the site of an elaborate lights and sound display at the home of William Quesse, 3 Hidden Grove Lane. Beginning Nov. 27, decorations will be on display 5-9 p.m.weeknights and often later on weekend evenings.

Greg Campbell, who lives across the street from Quesse, will present a traditional lights display at his house.

STREATOR

With the pandemic grounding the annual Keeping Christmas Close to Home parade last year, organizers came up with a Light Up Streator drivearound event in which lighted floats were spread out all over the city.

“It was a great turnout,” says Jim Starved Rock Country • Winter 2021 | 17

Light Up Streator display at Streator City Park

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE EVENTS HIGHLIGHTED HERE AT THESE WEBSITES: • La Salle: www.facebook.com/LaSalleLights www.lasalle-il.gov • Marseilles: www.iracc.org

• Morris: www.homefortheholidaysmorris.com • Ottawa: www.pickusottawail.com www.reddickmansion.org • Peru: www.peru.il.us

• Princeton: www.princetonchamber-il.com • Spring Valley: www.spring-valley.il.us www.facebook.com/quesselights • Streator: www.streator.org • Utica: www.utica-il.gov

Pellino, a committee member. “We had cars backed up for miles. People wanted to get out and do something.”

Streator’s parade will return this year, beginning Nov. 27 in City Park.

A countdown to light up the park will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by the parade stepping off at Illinois Street to Main Street, Park Street, Kent Street and back to Illinois Street. Hot chocolate will be served, Clydesdale-

esque grey thunder horses will be part of the parade, Christmas carols sung in the park and carriage rides offered.

Another committee member, Joe Richard, already has lit the park with fall decorations, and will present three new holiday displays for 2021.

“We always improve on what we’re doing,” he says.

Daytime activities will include a vendor fair in three different buildings.

UTICA

Christmas in the Village, Nov. 27 and 28, will kick off with businesses participating in Small Business Saturday. Carriage rides and an indoor canal market will be featured both days.

Children’s activities and a visit from Santa Claus will take place Sunday at the village’s community center. The lighting of Utica’s Christmas tree will be staged at S R the corner of Mill and Church streets. C

Save the Date and join us Saturday, December 4th Lighted Parade 5 p.m.

Starts and Ends at Peru Washington Park with Santa!

Light Up the Park Event to Follow!

Brought to you by CITY

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PERU

and the PERU RECREATION BOARD www.peru.il.us 18 | Winter 2021 • Starved Rock Country

Starved Rock Country • Winter 2021 | 19

Artist

| Arts & Entertainment |

SPOTLIGHT

JACQUELINE HUGHES 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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acqueline Hughes grew up surrounded by artists and their designs.

Her grandmother was a quilter, her mother a painter and creator of collages.

“Over the years I have combined all these techniques,” says Hughes, who makes art quilts and other fiber art projects as the owner of Jacqueline Jo Ann. Hughes went to school for fashion design and marketing. Then, one day about 25 years ago, she experimented with creating a more dimensional

20 | Winter 2021 • Starved Rock Country

applique. “My visions have grown from there,” she says.

One example of this dimensional fabric art is “A Walk in the Woods,” shown on the opposite page and the most challenging piece in her career, according to Hughes. “This idea was in my head for a few years before it made it onto paper and finally out of fabrics,” she says. “I struggled with the layers and how to display it.”

The completed project was hung in May 2019 at Prairie Arts Center in Princeton. “The response was amazing. It has inspired me to work on

a spring one,” she says.

Another piece shown here, “Summer Memories,” depicts a quilted 3D tree with a swing and abundant grasses in the foreground. “This piece has pushed my creative process. It is wonderful to see it come to life.”

Hughes often visits Open Space Art Gallery & Studios and 408 Fine Arts Factory, finding it exciting to watch “young and old exploring art of all types.”

“Art fills our souls and explores our emotions,” she adds. “It brings S R communities together.” C

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DETAILS OF JACQUELINE HUGHES’ WORK To purchase or learn more about her creations, visit her social media: JacquelineJoAnn on Facebook or @jjafiberart on Instagram.

1. Falling Water, inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright home 2. Summer Memories 3. A Walk in the Woods 4. Various framed images, available in 5x7 and 8x10

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ABOUT THE ARTIST Jacqueline Hughes makes quilts, clothing, greeting cards and other projects. “I have found my happy place at my sewing machine creating,” she says. Learn more at JacquelineJoAnn on Facebook or @jjafiberart on Instagram.

Starved Rock Country • Winter 2021 | 21

LIVE THE HARBOR L I F E

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Paintingh

On Top of the Wo

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h

orld

Laurie Ragan’s latest artistic endeavor

involves creating holiday scenes on globes Story and Photos by Annette Barr aurie Ragan was looking for a new way for people to enjoy and display her artwork — something different than the paintings and faux finishes she mainly did. It was while shopping with a friend that inspiration struck.

“I said to Mary Kay, ‘What if I painted on globes?’ She said, ‘This is brilliant! What a great idea,’” says Ragan while stopping to chat in front of one of her paintings decorating a kitchen wall.

Since then, the Starved Rock Country artist has been creating her paintings on spheres while “telling a story with a paintbrush,” in addition to canvas. Most of the globes are purchased

new, providing a smooth finish for Ragan to paint.

“Sometimes I can find a really nice vintage globe.

I bought this one because it had a lot of lumps so I incorporated the lumps into the clouds and I thought it made it look more dimensional,” Ragan says, holding up one of her holiday globes depicting Santa and his reindeer making their Christmas Eve run.

When Ragan was just 3 years old, she fell in love with art, primarily drawing and creating. As she progressed through elementary and high school, the Morris native continued to put pencil to paper. In the 1970s, when

she became a stay-at-home mom living in Ottawa, she had a desire to express herself through art and add “artist” to the titles of mom and wife. Having never taken an art class, she picked up a paintbrush and honed her skills through trial and error.

Eventually she began showing and selling her paintings at Starved Rock Country art fairs. Her work gained popularity — and now, her artwork has been a success for many years.

A few career highlights include appearing on the home shopping network, QVC, in 1995 when she was one of 20 creators chosen from 500 to appear live from Chicago’s Navy

Starved Rock Country • Winter 2021 | 25

j

To purchase her artwork, contact Laurie Ragan: WEB: www.ArtbyRagan.com EMAIL: raganart@hotmail.com

Hegeler Carus Mansion

FACEBOOK: Art By Ragan

1307 Seventh St LaSalle, IL 61301 815-224-6543

Pier during the station’s “Quest for America’s Best.” She sold an original handmade depiction of Geronimo from her American Heroes and Legends Doll collection. Her custom Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman Doll was given to the actress Jane Seymour, who portrayed

the character on the popular television show, at an appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show.

Her career has included many area art awards and recognition not only from her peers, but from avid collectors and clients as well.

Her work includes faux finishes, creating

dimensional wall designs that look as though plaster is chipping to reveal exposed brick, as well as murals.

Ragan’s murals can be seen at many Starved Rock Country locations, including A’Lure Aquarium Bar, Deja Vu and Grand Bear Resort, S R among others. C

Visit our website at www.hegelercarus.org to book a tour Wednesday thru Sunday!

Come, explore a National Historic Landmark and experience life in the Victorian age.

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| M ade In S RC |

A

BOUTIQUE & A BAR Longtime

tourism experts reveal their personal favorites in Starved Rock Country Story by Charles Stanley Photos by Tom Sistak

28 | Winter 2021 • Starved Rock Country

W

hen Sandy Burns and Donna Nordstrom tell a tourist where to go, they typically get a thank-you in response.

Burns and Nordstrom are the tourism coordinators who have for the past 10 years shared the job of greeting and directing visitors at the Heritage Corridor Visitor Center in Utica.

Burns has been in the tourism business longer than Nordstrom.

She grew up in Grand Ridge, south of Ottawa, and moved to Ottawa when she got married.

Burns got her start with the

Heritage Corridor Convention & Visitors Bureau 27 years ago and staffed the early storefront offices in Ottawa. The first was comprised of a desk and single pamphlet rack in a space she shared with a barbershop.

Nordstrom grew up in the suburbs of St. Paul, Minnesota, and moved to Ottawa in 1999. She worked part-time at the Ottawa Visitors Center before joining the Heritage Corridor CVB. “It’s a truly enjoyable job and every day is different,” Nordstrom says. “Most of the people we deal with are on vacation, so they’re really very happy.”

t Donna Nordstrom (left) and Sandy Burns share the job of tourism coordinators at the Heritage Corridor Visitor Center in Utica, providing directions and advice to visitors to Starved Rock Country.

“But there’s always a doggone few who are crabby,” adds Burns.

Both find it a personal challenge to custom match visitors to attractions.

“Even when so often you hear the same question, it’s not always the same answer,” Nordstrom says. n Parents looking for a different kind of place to take the kids on a rainy day? How about the Starved Rock Visitor Center or the Illinois Waterway Visitors Center? They both have kid-friendly educational displays. n Amateur genealogists looking for help finding a tiny country graveyard?

The La Salle County Genealogy Guild in Ottawa is likely to know. n A nice route for a long scenic motorcycle drive? How about the Illinois River Road? It’s a 300-mile round trip route down and back along the Illinois River between Ottawa and Havana.

They offer a wide selection of brochures, pamphlets and other publications from which visitors can browse and pick.

But beyond that, over the years both Burns and Nordstrom have developed a vast personal knowledge of the area’s shops and restaurants.

And, impossible as it may seem, each can readily offer up her own personal favorite.

SANDY’S FAVORITE: WEETA’S BOUTIQUE, OTTAWA Weeta’s Boutique, a women’s clothing store, is located west of Ottawa and inside the Starved Rock Marina.

The marina’s land was purchased in 1957 and developed by the parents of Weeta’s current owner, Kathy Powers Fox. Weeta was her mother and the shop’s founder. How she got her name is a story in itself.

“When my grandmother was pregnant, she was reading a novel with a heroine named Weta,” Fox says. Weta became her mother’s name. “But at school the kids would pronounce it Wet-ah. So, when Weta got to college she added another ‘e’ so it would be pronounced Wee-ta.”

From the outside, the shop’s space in a marina building looks small. But inside there is some 3,000 square feet and a scenic view of the river.

“When people come in, they’re

amazed how big it is,” Fox says.

Fox, a University of Illinois graduate with a degree in parks and recreation administration, got a job in her field in Oak Park after college. “I loved it, but my mom was kind of getting tired and said, ‘Hey, what would you think about helping me?’ The timing was right so I moved back.”

The shop specializes in contemporary casual styles.

“But I think most of our lines are unique,” says Fox. “I always say that people don’t want to see themselves coming and going. They want something a little unusual, a little unique — as well as something they can get a little wear out of.”

The shop is well stocked.

“We can outfit a customer from top to bottom,” Fox says. “I’ve had gals come in wearing a swimsuit but they want to eat upstairs at the Captain’s Cove (restaurant). I can help them from top to bottom. We pick out the dress, the shoes, the

p Sandy Burns of the Heritage Corridor Visitor Center in Utica does not hesitate to send shoppers to Weeta’s Boutique. Burns is a longtime patron and even occasionally would model there at fashion shows. t Weeta’s Boutique in the Starved Rock Marina west of Ottawa looks small at the entrance but inside expands to 3,000 square feet of fashion.

Starved Rock Country • Winter 2021 | 29

u John Ebener, the longtime proprietor of Ninth Street Pub in La Salle, serves a signature dish — A Cheeseburger on Paradise — to Donna Nordstrom of the Heritage Corridor Visitor Center in Utica. Nordstrom discovered the pub a decade ago, became a faithful customer and recommends it to area visitors.

purse and the accessories. We clip the tags and they walk out of here in a new outfit.”

Burns says the shop’s success is due to Fox’s relationship with her customers.

“Kathy does incredible one-onone,” Burns says. “She knows her customers very well.

“Sometimes when I take something off the rack she’ll say, ‘You’re not going to like it.’ Other times she’ll call and say ‘I’ve got something that made me think of you.’

“Maybe that’s why the other day I walked out of there with three outfits,” she adds ruefully. “I guess it’s my addiction.”

WEETA’S BOUTIQUE 1134 N. 27th Road, Ottawa 815-434-1587 www.weetasboutiqueat starvedrockmarina.com 30 | Winter 2021 • Starved Rock Country

DONNA’S FAVORITE: THE NINTH STREET PUB, LA SALLE While Nordstrom agrees that local taverns serve some of the best area food, she notes frequenting neighborhood bars is not typical of her behavior.

Yet, after a business call brought her to Ninth Street Pub in La Salle 10 years ago, two things keep her coming back: the bar’s Cheeseburger on Paradise and owner John Ebener.

“John’s is a favorite bar to send people to,” she says. “And if you ask me, that cheeseburger is the best.”

Ebener has a logical reason why that’s so.

“Nobody else makes one,” he points out.

Besides the juicy burger itself and the bun, the Paradise burger includes American and Swiss cheese, bacon, grilled onions, tomato, sprouts, mayo and avocado.

Making tasty food has been a career for Ebener, who grew up just

a few blocks away, number five in a family of 12.

Now 66, back when he was in his late teens and the legal drinking age was lower, Ebener and his brother Tom used to hang out at the pub — then more of a nightclub than a neighborhood tavern — where they liked to play foosball, a tabletop soccer game.

Ebener, who early on discovered his love of cooking, started his career at Peru’s legendary but now closed Red Door Inn. Future career stops included the Pick-Congress Hotel in Chicago and helping open a Red Door Inn in Rockford.

In 1977 the chance to buy the Ninth Street Pub came up and he and Tom jumped, becoming the new owners that Dec. 12.

For Ebener, preparing bar food was a natural fit.

“I love to cook and I love to make simple stuff,” he says. “I love making homemade soups — I’ve got about 300 soup recipes in my

u The future home of the Heritage Corridor Visitor Center in Utica.

Photo by Scott Anderson

HERITAGE CORRIDOR VISITOR CENTER MOVING TO DOWNTOWN UTICA The Heritage Corridor Visitor Center in Utica is on the move.

The change was prompted by the plan to construct a traffic roundabout at the intersection of U.S. 6 and Route 178, which will encroach on the visitor center’s longtime home in a white building it shared with Applebee’s Bait Shop.

The new location will be in two classrooms in the former Waltham South School in downtown Utica that was purchased by the village for its municipal offices.

“There will be advantages,” says Bob Navarro, the president and CEO of the Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau.

head. I also make a dynamite Reuben sandwich because we make it out of our own corned beef.”

But there also can be the unexpected, like stuffed peppers and beef stroganoff, that harken back to his days as a chef.

Visitors can expect to find a welcome center with things beyond the traditional brochures, maps and other tourist information.

“It won’t be a full-fledged gift shop, but there will be mugs, T-shirts and other items with a local flavor,” Navarro says.

“We hope to highlight some of our ‘Illinois Made’ partners’ products,” Navarro says. Those items are fashioned

by Illinois artisans.

Ebener promotes an easygoing atmosphere at the pub. People stop by where he’s sitting to have a word with him.

A neighbor comes in, all smiles, to say she got a job.

“A J-O-B?” he responds.

“That’s great.”

Another person drops off the keys to his truck, which was borrowed for a move.

“You’re welcome to the truck again if you need it,” he says.

Having run the pub for nearly 44 years, Ebener still likes coming to work.

“I’m enjoying it,” he says.

“But if the fun ends, then I’ll S R look at other options.” C

NINTH STREET PUB 253 Ninth St., La Salle 815-223-8960 www.9thstpub.com

Although the visitor center staff will be helping with the move, information will be available online and at the Heritage Corridor’s Joliet office.

The hours also may change.

“We’re looking at being open later in the morning and staying open later,” Navarro says. “The thought is to be open as late as other places in downtown Utica.”

Mansion Tours:

Mansion and Gardens

O

FRIDAY-MONDAY | 11 AM and 1 PM Please call for other arrangements & group tours

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 CANDLELIGHT TOURS FRIDAY DEC. 3RD & 10TH 6:00-8:00 P.M.

SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

100 West Lafayette St. | Ottawa, IL 61350 815-433-6100 | reddickmansion.org Starved Rock Country • Winter 2021 | 31

Downtown Ottawa Come Spend The Day With Us! Whether you are visiting the beautiful area of Starved Rock Country or live in our local communities we invite you to stop and spend the day in downtown Ottawa.

A town lined with boutique shops and modern eateries.

Let us cook your

holiday feast!

•Catering Available • Party Trays

1219 Fulton St. • Ottawa • 815-433-0478 HOURS: Monday-Saturday 11am-7pm

615 LaSalle St. • Ottawa 815-433-5683 310 E. Main St. • Streator 815-672-2614 SM-CL1920621

32 | Winter 2021 • Starved Rock Country

www.vanduzerjewelers.com

LaSalle County’s Favorite Independent Bookstore 719 LaSalle Street, Ottawa • (815) 433-7323 prairiefoxbooks@gmail.com SM-CL1920609

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. • Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Welcome to Ottawa, the middle of everything!

Relaxation and Wellness in the Re Heart He of Starved Rock Country

Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna

Dry Hydrotherapy

• Unique Gifts Ionic Foot Detox

• Gift Baskets

Migun Massage Bed

• Custom Framing

Whether you live in Starved Rock Country or are here for a visit, remember to take time to hike, go eagle watching, find an adventure, or just RELAX! A visit to SaltTreeYoga will provide you with the relaxation and harmony you need to balance your life.

310 ½ W. Main St. Ottawa, IL • 815.343.2751 SaltTreeYoga.com SM-CL1921186

Custom Framing Gift Certificates Available SM-CL1920614

Try a YOGA CLASS and SHOP in our unique gift shop before or after you relax!

• Shadow Boxes Built For Your Treasured Objects

Heartland By Hand Gifts and Framing 231 W. Main St. • Ottawa. 815.324.9298 www.heartlandbyhand.com

Starved Rock Country • Winter 2021 | 33

Finest

Starved Rock Country

In nearly 50 categories, these businesses stood out as enjoyable places to shop, eat and visit Story by Ryan Searl • Photos by Shaw Media

Hundreds of readers cast their votes for the best of the best in Starved Rock Country! Local residents and loyal visitors have shared their favorite spots and hidden gems from around the region. Featuring nearly 50 delicious dining destinations, can’t-miss boutiques, rejuvenating spas and fun family activities, here’s an inside look at our readers’ picks.

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT ART GALLERY Starved Rock Hot Glass 700 W. Main St., Ottawa www.starvedrockhotglass.com For a truly one-of-a-kind piece of art, pay a visit to Starved Rock Hot Glass. Ottawa artist Laura Johnson crafts beautiful, handmade glass works, ranging from intricate flowers to modernist mixed media pieces, in this downtown store/studio.

LIVE MUSIC VENUE Jamie’s OutPost 602 Clark St., North Utica www.jamiesoutpost.com The OutPost’s newly added 4000-square-foot, covered wooden deck provides the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a concert. The space features custom whiskey barrel tables, comfortable seating, patio heaters, fire pits and an adjoining full-service bar.

LIVE THEATRE Engle Lane Theatre 1012 Columbus Road, Streator www.englelane.org

PUBLIC GOLF COURSE Senica’s Oak Ridge Golf Club 658 US-6La Salle www.senicagolf.com

FESTIVAL Burgoo Festival 101 E. Canal St., North Utica

Home to the Community Players of Streator, this beautiful 247seat theater is the perfect place to soak in a live stage show in Starved Rock Country. Presenting a delightful handful of shows every year, this cozy theater packs big talent and popular performances onto its stage.

This course, conveniently located near Interstates 39 and 80 in La Salle, is a true golfer’s delight! Senica’s Oak Ridge Golf Club is masterfully designed to utilize the area’s natural beauty, resulting in a spectacular, tree-lined golf course.

MUSEUM OR CULTURAL ATTRACTION Reddick Mansion Association 100 W. Lafayette St., Ottawa www.reddickmansion.org

The La Salle County Historical Society hosts Burgoo, one of the state’s longest-running fall festivals. This fun, open-air community celebration brings together hundreds of craft, antique and artisan vendors; live blacksmithing demonstrations; the famous Burgoo stew tasting; and more.

GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT SPOT Montage Wine Bar & Spirits 307 Liberty St., Morris www.montagewinebar.com

Ottawa’s Reddick Mansion is a wonderfully unique landmark that overlooks the famed LincolnDouglas debate site. This 22room, Italianate home has been meticulously restored to the 19th century after decades of being used as the town’s public library. Now, the mansion is open year-round for tours, Fridays through Mondays.

34 | Winter 2021 • Starved Rock Country

Montage Wine Bar & Spirits, Morris’ signature wine bar, offers a beautiful atmosphere and impressive selection of imported wines. From international and domestic wines to small-batch craft spirits, signature cocktails and craft beers will cater to every palate.

www.lasallecountyhistoricalsociety.org

FAMILY-FRIENDLY ATTRACTION Matthiessen State Park 2500 Route 178, Oglesby www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/ Pages/Matthiessen.aspx Located just a short drive away from Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen is a picturesque park that takes you from wildflower-lined prairie trails to the depths of Ice Ageera dells, complete with rushing waterfalls and mossy canyon walls.

DINING AND DRINKS ROMANTIC DINNER A’Lure Aquarium Bar and Restaurant 213 W. Madison St. Ottawa Facebook: A’Lure Aquarium Bar COFFEE SHOP Jeremiah Joe Coffee 807 La Salle St., Ottawa 101 E. Canal Ave., Ottawa www.jeremiahjoecoffee.com DINING ON THE WATERFRONT Red Dog Grill 411 Great Loop E. Drive Ottawa www.reddoggrill.com BLOODY MARY SPOT Berta’s Tap 616 Clinton St., Ottawa www.bertastap.com SUSHI SOB 612 Fourth St., Peru Facebook: SOB WINE BAR CatsEye 724 La Salle St., Ottawa www.catseyewinebar.com BAKERY Blue Eyed Rascal Baking Co. 121 E. Main St., Streator www.blue-eyed-rascal-bakingcompany.square.site

BOUTIQUES AND SHOPPING WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE Wild Hearts Boutique 214 E. Main St., Streator www.wildheartsboutique.com MEN’S SHOP That Guy’s Secret 105 Marquette St. La Salle www.thatguyssecret.com JEWELRY STORE VanDuzer Jewelers 615 La Salle St., Ottawa www.vanduzerjewelers.com

DOWNTOWN SHOPPING DISTRICT Streator, Illinois www.streator.org

MASSAGE Unwind at Westclox 304 Fifth St., Peru www.unwindatwestclox.com

GIFT SHOP Lily Pads Too Resale Boutique 411 E. Stevenson Road, Ottawa Facebook: Lily Pads Too Resale Boutique

HAIR SALON Luscious Moi Salon 817 First St., La Salle Facebook: Luscious Moi Salon

HOME DECOR HOME Hardware 814 Clinton St., Ottawa Facebook: HOME Hardware GOURMET SHOP The Cheese Shop and Deli 1219 Fulton St., Ottawa www.thecheeseshop.biz u Learn more about The Cheese Shop and Deli on P. 44!

BRIDAL AND FORMAL WEAR Marien Mae Bridal Boutique 749 First St., La Salle www.marienmae.com FURNITURE STORE Turk Furniture 801 La Salle St., Ottawa Second and Joliet streets La Salle www.turkfurniture.com WINE SHOP Clarks Run Antiques, Gifts and Wine 215 N. Division St., North Utica www.clarksruncreek.com LIQUOR STORE Rudy’s Liquors 285 Chartres St., La Salle Facebook: Rudy’s Liquors & Vintage Taproom FARMERS MARKET The Ottawa Farmers Market 633 La Salle St., Ottawa www.ottawachamberillinois. com/farmers-market

SERVICES AND LIFESTYLE YOGA SaltTreeYoga 310 1/2 W. Main St., Ottawa www.salttreeyoga.com

FLORIST Blythe Flowers 1231 La Salle St. Ottawa www.blytheflowers.com TUTORING CENTER Sylvan Learning of Peru 1040 Fourth St., Peru www.locations.sylvanlearning. com/us/peru-il/about-us

MANICURE AND PEDICURE Crowhurst Footcare 1703 Polaris Circle, Ottawa www.crowhurstfootcare.com

HEALTH CLUB The Ottawa YMCA 201 E. Jackson St. Ottawa www.ottawaymca.org

COSMETIC SKIN CARE Studio 718 718 First St., La Salle www.studio718hair.com

WEDDING AND EVENT VENUE Knights of Columbus 401 W. Main St., Ottawa www.kcbanquets.com

LASER & MEDI SPA Bella Maison on First Salon & Spa 543 First St., La Salle www.bellamaisonon1st.com

CATERER The Cheese Shop and Deli 1219 Fulton St. Ottawa www.thecheeseshop.biz

PET GROOMER Novak Rinker Veterinary Clinic 1650 First Ave., Ottawa www.novakrinker.vetstreet.com

MAID SERVICE Illinois Valley Clean Team 914 First St., La Salle www.ivcleanteaminc.com

PET BOARDING Starved Rock Kennel Club 501 Bellevue Ave., Ottawa www.starvedrockkennelclub.com

HANDY MAN B B Home Maintenance 102 Edwards Ave. La Salle

PHOTOGRAPHER Annette Barr Photography Studio 215 W. Main St., Ottawa www.annettebarrphoto.com

NURSERY AND GARDEN CENTER Danchris Nursery 1000 Bernstein St. Streator www.danchrisnursery.com

u See Annette Barr’s photos on p. 24-26.

55+ COMMUNITY AND SENIOR LIVING Pleasant View 505 College Ave., Ottawa www.pvottawa.org FINANCIAL PLANNER Edward Jones - Financial Advisor Helio Ruvalcaba 128 W. Norris Drive, Ottawa www.edwardjones.com/us-en/ financial-advisor/helio-ruvalcaba Edward Jones - Financial Advisor Mark C. Platt 130 W. Lafayette St., Ottawa www.edwardjones.com/us-en/ financial-advisor/mark-platt

POOL COMPANY JTS Pools 1761 Chessie Lane Ottawa www.jtspools.com HOME BUILDER Yoesle & Eddy Construction Inc. 3620 E. 1769 Road, Ottawa www.yoesleandeddy.com LANDSCAPER Hornbaker Gardens Inc. 22937 County Road 1140 N. Ave. Princeton www.hornbakergardens.com

Starved Rock Country • Winter 2021 | 35

FINEST

As voted from August 20-September 14, favorites were chosen in entertainment, dining, services, health & wellness, retail, home & garden and more from the Starved Rock Region.

Take Your Tastebuds Journey

Voted

BEST Sushi!

Ach

iev

ON A

eA ston ishing Look s

We encourage you to try these businesses and be sure to nominate and vote for your favorites in the 2022 contest!!

SUSHI. BURGERS. COCKTAILS. APPETIZERS.

ROUTE 6, PERU 815.220.8888

SM-CL1920974

36 | Winter 2021 • Starved Rock Country

sushiorburger.com

FACIALS • MAKEUP APPLICATION • LASH APPLICATION Specializing in BioElements and Mirabella products Contact Rosanne to schedule an appointment

Voted the BEST in Cosmetic Skin Care Open 6 days • 815.224.3491 www.studio718hair.com

Voted Best Salon!

Get Spoiled at

DOWNTOWN LASALLE - 815.220.8005 LONDON PARIS PALM BEACH NEW YORK MILANO

PALM BEACH NEW YORK MILANO

PALM BEACH NEW YORK MILANO

The Best of Starved Rock Country 2021

­

SM-CL1920671

Starved Rock Country • Winter 2021 | 37

38 | Winter 2021 • Starved Rock Country

’Tis the season to

SHOP

Get a head start on your holiday purchases at two outdoor markets Story by Stephanie Jaquins T Photos by Tom Sistak and provided by Rachel Lacke

F

or the past few years, Rachel Lacke has sat in a hut at Ottawa’s Chris Kringle Market surrounded by her words.

Every now and then, she’ll hear a chuckle from someone reading her hand-painted, farmhouse-style signs — particularly those that belong in the bathroom.

“When someone comes in to look and I hear them laughing over a sign, it makes me happy,” Lacke says. “Life is short, you’ve got to smile!”

Visiting with marketgoers is an experience that keeps Lacke coming back every year. “I like participating for many reasons, but mainly to see the joy in people’s hearts. The Christmas season brings out the best in people.”

Lacke first got into making signs when she purchased a few signs from a Morris market. “I brought them home and looked them over and thought, ‘I can do this,’” she says. “A little research and sawdust later, here we are.”

She named her business Repurpose

Me because her first project involved painting old cabinet doors she found in her in-laws’ barn.

This year she will have signs similar to those she’s had in the past — with more variation, she says, as she recently incorporated a laser into her sign making. She’s working on 3D snowflakes and Christmas trees.

Lacke will be one of 60-80 vendors at this year’s Ottawa market, depending on the weekend. Stephanie Stacy,

Starved Rock Country • Winter 2021 | 39

Sawyer Tiberi appears to pop out of a gift box while exploring under the Christmas tree.

I WANT TO GO! WHEN AND WHERE? Ottawa’s market is 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Sunday on Nov. 26-28, Dec. 3-5, Dec. 10-12 and Dec. 17-19. The market takes place in the Jordan block, a green space on the south side of Main Street between La Salle and Columbus streets.

The La Salle market is 4-7 p.m. Dec. 3, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Dec. 4 and 5.

You’ll find the market at the city’s Second Street parking lot.

Gifts for sale at the Repurpose Me vendor hut.

A group gathers near the Christmas tree to enjoy a hot chocolate. A wide variety of food and drink can be found at the Chris Kringle Market.

owner of event organizer Floret Events, will also have a hut for her business, Garden’s Gate Garden Center and Landscaping.

Her biggest sellers are freshly cut greens and home decor.

As in the past, the market is mainly focused on selling homemade items, Stacy says.

Some items for sale will include German decor, rugs, handmade ornaments, wood pieces, bath and body items, home decor and Christmas decor.

Tangled Roots Brewing Company and August Hill Winery are local favorites returning this year. The market will also feature popcorn, Bavarian hot chocolate, barbecue, candy, funnel cakes, mini apple cider donuts and pierogies.

Stacy says the market also will have family-centered activities.

“We’re still working on it, but I think it’s going to be fantastic,” she says.

You can also expect carriage rides; a children’s train; performances by a local dance school, the Illinois Valley Youth Choir and an Illinois State University a cappella group; and a local storyteller.

The city’s Christmas tree will return this year to Washington Square and will be decorated with ornaments made by local students. Stacy is also working on a project involving local schools to create displays depicting Christmas traditions around the world, to be displayed at stores.

LA SALLE’S CHRISTKINDLMARKET

While visiting Ottawa’s market, one can take a ride around town for some sightseeing.

40 | Winter 2021 • Starved Rock Country

After a hiatus in 2020 due to the pandemic, La Salle’s Christkindlmarket is returning

this year with huts, food and activities.

The vendors aren’t finalized, but many customer favorites will return with unique items that can’t be found in local stores, says La Salle Business Association Vice President Leah Inman. You’ll find alpaca wool goods, artistic gifts, handmade jewelry, wood-turned items and gift sets.

The market also will offer mulled wine, hot chocolate, hot cider, locally roasted coffee and German beer. German boot mugs will be available as well as commemorative La Salle Business Association mugs. La Salle’s Uptown Grill will offer a variety of German-themed foods cooked right at the market.

Market attendees will find a baby and mama reindeer at the market, as well as Santa Claus visits, holiday music, a s’more station and more, says Inman.

The La Salle market started in 2017, and Inman says people enjoy the smaller scale of this event compared to Chicago or Naperville markets. She says many attendees visit Ottawa and La Salle markets and are able to get much of their shopping done.

Inman notes other activities families can enjoy this holiday season, such as La Salle’s Miracle on First Street on Dec. 4 and the Celebration of Lights at Rotary Park any evening from midNovember to New Year’s Day. “We try our best to offer shoppers an authentic German feel while they attend the market, but more so want to offer them a great family experience and S R tradition,” Inman says. C

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Starved Rock Country • Winter 2021 | 41

Welcome To

Streator Explore Experience Enjoy Downtown Streator

Her perfect gift is here.

Bromley & Brown B

O

U

T

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308 E. Main St. • Streator 815.672.4772 Open Tuesday - Saturday

A Neighborhood Favorite

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Must Present This Coupon! Expires 3/4/22 Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

617 E. Main in St. Streator, IL

Sun-Thur: Sun 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

42 | Winter 2021 • Starved Rock Country

| | | |

Breakfast Served All Day Daily Specials Delicious Soups Homemade Desserts

The Country Cupboard 124 S. Vermillion Street | Streator | 815.672.5885 Carryouts and Delivery Available Open 7 Days A Week | Mon-Fri 6-7 | Sat & Sun 6-2

Wild Hearts Boutique Gypsy Soul With a Cowgirl Spirit 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

Shop the

200 BLOCK Of Streator

Find Unique Holiday Gifts WOMEN'S CLOTHING BOUTIQUE Carrying Sizes S-3XL

One stop shop for all of your gift, home goods, and décor needs.

– Mother and Daughters Operated –

ACCESSORIES

JEWELRY

PURSES

212 EAST MAIN STREET STREATOR

815.822.1466 The Queen Bee 212 E. Main St. • Streator

shopatthequeenbee.com

HOURS TUE.-FRI. 10AM-4PM SAT. 10AM-3PM Starved Rock Country • Winter 2021 | 43

| Di n ing & Dr inking |

3

STARVED ROCK COUNTRY

SUB STOPS

When you have a hankering for a sandwich, consider these delicious options

Story by Ryan Searl Photos by Ryan Searl and Shaw Media

Sometimes the best lunch out there is a hearty sandwich, whether you’re coming from a snowy hike or a quiet morning inside.

Here’s where you should head for a quick bite to eat next time you’re in Starved Rock Country!

44 | Winter 2021 • Starved Rock Country

THE CHEESE SHOP AND DELI 1219 Fulton St., Ottawa 815-433-0478 www.thecheeseshop.biz

For more than 30 years, The Cheese Shop ’n’ Deli has been providing Starved Rock Country — and visitors in the know — with delicious, fresh foods in an unusual setting: a former cheese factory. The building served as a storefront and manufacturing facility for the Ottawa Milk Products Company from 1942 to 1986. It now houses a full-fledged deli and restaurant, serving some of the best sub sandwiches in the area.

Tucked away off the banks of the I & M Canal, The Cheese Shop and Deli offers a wide variety of paninis, subs and carver sandwiches, in addition to great soup and sandwich combos and daily specials. The restaurant keeps true to its roots, using a curated selection of specialty cheeses, fresh breads and delicious meats. Locals love the revolving selection of soups, like vegetable, ravs and broth, and jalapeño cheese.

t A pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw and a side of homemade chips. u The meatloaf carver sandwich is a Wednesday special.

u A chalkboard on the side of Grant Street Grocery’s building announces the day’s specials. q A turkey and cheese slider on homemade bread.

GRANT STREET GROCERY

402 W. Grant St., Streator 815-672-2167 Facebook: Grant Street Grocery On the northwest side of Streator, just a few blocks away from the downtown, you’ll find Grant Street Grocery. This hidden gem has been serving up scrumptious scratch-made meals and delicious deli options for several decades.

You’ll find tables and chairs set up between small aisles of groceries, making for a truly memorable experience. While the atmosphere is reason enough to visit, the sandwiches are what will keep you coming back.

Grant Street’s sandwiches are all made to order deli-style, using delicious fresh breads.

Thursdays bring famous stuffed bread specials, packing freshly sliced salami, ham and mozzarella into a pocket of bread dough and baking it on the spot. These legendary sandwiches bring big crowds, so be prepared to wait for one of these masterpieces.

p Grant Street Grocery is famous for its stuffed bread sandwich, served Thursdays.

Rockin’ Starved Rock Country for 44 years!

9thstpub.com

5 minutes from Starved Rock.

Live Music 4 Days a Week.

6 Progressive Live Video Gaming Machines.

polished. modern. casual.

UPTOWN GRILL

70 DIFFERENT BEERS

OPEN AT 8AM

VOTED 1 OF THE BEST FOR LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

253 9th Street • LaSalle, IL 61301 815.223.8960 • We Deliver to Utica.

AMERICAN CUISINE WITH THE MOST EXTENSIVE MENU STARVED ROCK COUNTRY HAS TO OFFER SATISFYING APPETITES SINCE 1985 FULL MENU EVERYDAY • SERVING LUNCH THRU DINNER KITCHEN & BAR SERVING LATE CUT & AGED STEAKS IN-HOUSE • FRESH SEAFOOD & OYSTERS GOURMET BURGERS & SANDWICHES CRAFT BREWS • LARGE WINE SELECTION PRIVATE BANQUET ROOM • LIVE MUSIC KID FRIENDLY FOOD • PATIO DINING • DOGS WELCOME

815.224.4545 • 601 FIRST STREET • LASALLE UPTOWNGRILL.COM •

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Starved Rock Country • Winter 2021 | 45

OBEE’S SUB SHOPPE 113 Wright St., La Salle 815-220-5120 www.obeessub.com

Since 2003, Obee’s Sub Shoppe has been giving locals and travelers an artisan alternative to the chain sub sandwich shops. With its signature breads, fresh vegetables, thin-sliced deli meats and optional toasting, this is a must-stop shop after a busy day of hiking at nearby Starved Rock State Park.

Obee’s offers tons of sandwich customization as well as some delicious specialty subs, like the Buffalo Bill (featuring sliced buffalo chicken, pepper jack cheese, lettuce, tomato, buffalo sauce and ranch) and Mountain Mike Club (ham, roast beef, bacon, guacamole, lettuce, tomato and ranch).

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46 | Winter 2021 • Starved Rock Country

p Sammi Murley builds sandwiches at Obee’s Sub Shoppe in La Salle. Photo taken pre-pandemic. t A Malibu chicken breast sandwich (left) and a roast beef sandwich with a cup of chili (right).

Downtown, Morris IL

HOLIDAY SHOPPING OPEN NOW

MORRIS RETAIL ASSOCIATION invites you to be a part of our

Holiday Events EVENTS: • Holiday Open Houses Every Weekend in November • November 6th – Liberty 5K Run/Walk • November 11th-27th – Festival of Trees • November 26th-28th – Home for the Holidays, Window Walk, and Collectors Coupon Bag Giveaway • December 3rd – Midnight in Morris • December 12th – Winter Fest Market • December 18th & 19th – Reindeer Scavenger Hunt • December 18th – Evening with Santa

For more info visit downtownmorris.com or Morris Retail Association’s Facebook page SM-CL1921093

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Busy November at Apple Butter and Shugies

OUR ANNUAL

ELF ON A

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Nov. 19th-21st SHELF PARTY HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS Nov. 26th-28th DEC.11TH-12TH MONTAGE KRIS KRINGLE Nov. 28th Noon to 4

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Jane and Stu Kerr APPLE BUTTER AND SHUGIE’S 309 N. Liberty St. Morris (815) 942-5093 SM-CL1920641

• BAGGED COFFEE • BAKED GOODS • MATCHA DRINKS • TEAS & LEMONADES

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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.

• ESPRESSO DRINKS • DRIP COFFEE

CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR HOURS OF OPERATION

701 LIBERTY STREET / MORRIS / 815.710.5006

CHOPSHOPGRILLE.COM

48 | Winter 2021 • Starved Rock Country

312 Liberty St., Morris 815.710.5000

• DAILY SOUP

Come spend the day with us!

CHILDREN’S APPAREL | SIZES PREEMIE TO SIXTEEN CONTEMPORARY CHILDREN’S CLOTHING BOUTIQUE 218 LIBERTY ST. • MORRIS, IL 60450 SM-CL1920647

815/942-3999

Gourmet Flavored Popcorn • Fudge • Hand Dipped Ice Cream Shakes & Malts • Chocolates • Bulk Candy • Bavarian Nuts Jelly Bellies • Smoothies • Nostalgic Candies

And so much more!

108 w. Washington St. SM-CL1920644

Upscale Boutique Specializing in Quality Clothing and Accessories

215 Liberty St., Morris IL 815-942-1514 SM-CL1920653

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Aimee Gedvilas smiles as she takes a selfie with a wooden nutcracker soldier at the Jordan block area of the Chris Kringle Market.

Photo by Tom Sistak

TO The Starved Rock State Park Whether you’re spotting eagles in Starved Rock State Park, shopping ping in our historic downtowns, downtowns wns or sipping locally-made wine and spirits, find your fun in LaSalle County this winter!

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Family Reunions Single Family Vacations Romantic Couples Getaways

Kishauwau’s Starved Rock Area Cabins 4.9

353 Google reviews 394 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

KishauwauCabins.com

901 N. 2129th Rd. • Tonica, IL • 815-442-8453 SM-CL1920602