Midcentral States

Watching over traffic along Interstate highways 57 and 70, the “Cross at the Crossroads” was built for inspirational reasons. The underlying reason -- was to also out-size every other big American cross out there, especially the giant cross in Groom, Texas, which was both its inspiration and its toughest competition.

The construction crew did it’s job well, as the Effingham cross reined as size champion for 17 years, until a taller onewas erected in Missouri in late 2018.

Now holding “2nd Place” in size, the cross is 198 feet tall and 113 feet wide. It was forged out of over 180 tons of steel anchored in untold fathoms of cement. The cross can withstand winds up to 145 miles per hour. Its stark, slab-sided design conveys the corporate utility of a logo -- no distracting crucifixion blandishments, just the plainest symbol of Christianity.

No two accounts agree on its cost; some estimates range into the multi-millions. But the Cross Foundation that built it says that 20 million people drive past the cross each year, and that a percentage of those people will see it and become good Christians, and that makes it all worthwhile.

Thrusting heavenward out of easy-to-reach flat farmland, the cross seems even bigger than it already is, an effect not enjoyed by some other crosses that were unwisely built on distant hills (Unfortunately, the view from the top of the cross can only be imagined, as its hollow innards have only a single, off-limits ladder and no way to look out). The massive slab into which it’s anchored is awash in piped-in church music and surrounded by monuments for each of the Ten Commandments, which deliver inspirational audio homilies at the touch of a button. Granite blocks, set flush with the earth, serve as simple memorials and as billboards for testimony. “Live 4 Jesus Die is Gain” reads one. Another proclaims, “In These Trying Times a Sign -- God is in Control.” Corvettes at the Cross and the Blessing of the Bikes are two of the seasonal events held at the cross’s Welcome Center and chapel. Volunteers staff the facility in four-hour shifts. A small theater in the Effingham Cross welcome center shows a video, available for purchase, which recounts the construction. It was “an intricate and delicate ballet,” the narrator says. “Until the Lord comes back and this world comes to an end, the light of this cross is going to shine for people who travel by.”

Learn all about the history of our 23rd President at this home in Indianapolis. Rated fourth place for Things to Do in Indianapolis, the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site celebrates the remarkable legacy of America’s Hoosier President.

The museum is a national historic landmark situated within easy walking distance of downtown Indianapolis and the bustling 16th Street corridor. The 1875 Italianate mansion is exquisitely restored and has an exceptional collection of more than 10,000 artifacts. Daily tours of the property include a 75-minute guided tour through the Harrison house and private quarters.

View an awe-inspiring collection of Gilded Age finery, paintings, furniture and personal presidential gifts and mementos. Enjoy the grounds surrounding the estate which features an array of flower beds manicured by volunteer gardeners.

Be entertained by the performing arts associates that periodically present the Candlelight Theatre. Creative Director Donna Wing, Resident Playwright James Trofatter and a dedicated company of seasoned actors perform a combination of mysteries, comedies and thrilling historically-inspired tales. In this spring season, beginning April 16, guests can participate in helping to solve the mystery of Death in the Library by Jo

Smedley. Working in teams of eight, they will interrogate the suspects, gather clues, and solve the crime. A prize will be awarded to the winning team each evening. Performances will begin at 6 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sunday.

Tickets are now available online.

The privately operated, non-profit organization receives no direct tax support and is dedicated to sharing the life stories, arts and culture of an American President to increase public participation in the American system of self-government. Find out more at PresidentBenjaminHarrison.org. .

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Right about now, we could all use a little xZOOberance! Unwind and celebrate in Indy’s favorite spring festival. Don’t miss it; there are just a few more days to catch the fun - April 8-11.

Live music, art, craft kits, photo ops, and, of course, animals make this a must-do activity. Especially this year. Activities will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day Thursday through Sunday.

Need a place for the kids to safely blow off steam and overcome a little cabin fever? The Bicentennial Pavilion will be buzzing with live music and dancing, along with spring-centric art and fun, socially distanced activities. Express your creativity with our take-home craft kits. Seeking your next epic photo op? Look for larger-thanlife flowers and pinwheels plus the beautiful Living Wall. And, of course, don’t miss encounters with animals, including goats and chickens. Guests can also have free basic eye screenings presented by Dr. Tavel.

Just want to unwind with a beverage and a snack? Head to the Cheer Garden anytime! We’re offering a fresh, seasonal menu featuring Bavarian pretzels, kettle chips and kid-friendly refreshments. Also, adults can sample wine slushies from Daniel’s Vineyard, sip cocktails created especially for us by Hotel Tango, and enjoy craft beer and the new Naked Barrel Hard Seltzer from Upland Brewing Co. With this much to see and do, there’s no question: It’s time to say sayonara to winter and ring in the season we’ve all been waiting for. Reservations are required.

Tickets are free for members - enter your membership details during checkout.

In following Mayor Hogsett’s guidelines, guests and members must have a mask with them upon entering the Zoo. Visitors are required to wear a face covering to enter all buildings including restrooms. In addition, the Zoo will require masks to enter the aviaries, participate in interactions at Tembo Camp, Giraffe Feeds, Flamingo Feeds and Flamingo Mingle as social distancing is not possible at these activities. Masks are required to be worn in outdoor areas where social distancing of 6ft is not possible. For more information, visit https://www.indianapoliszoo.com/

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Between 1942 and 1946, enemy combatants captured during World War II were held captive in the US. One of the Prisoner of War (POW) camps was in north central Iowa, just outside Algona. Although POW camps in the US have been largely forgotten in American history, Algona has a yearly reminder of the Camp that was just outside the town: a nativity scene that is displayed every year around Christmas time. Learn about the divine inspiration behind this enduring symbol of unity for the people of Algona and those who visit it. impressive life-size carving of the Last Supper.

Often referred to as the “8th Wonder of the World,” the Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend is testament to a young priest’s faith and determination to fulfill a promise. The Shrine is comprised of nine grottos depicting scenes in the life of Jesus. It is considered to be the world’s largest grotto and the most complete man-made collection of minerals, fossils, shells and petrified wood in one place.

If you’re looking for a sanctuary to get away from everyday hassles — you’ll find it at Trinity Heights in Sioux City. This pastoral setting offers more than two dozen shrines, memorial garden spots and quiet corners for prayer and reflection amidst 14 acres of spacious walkways and soft green spaces. The statues of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Queen of Peace and the Sacred Heart of Jesus that grace the grounds are awe inspiring.

There are shrines to the Blessed Virgin Mary and The Way of the Saints honoring 60 Saints in the Catholic Church, an Outdoor Cathedral area and Trinity Gardens. Inside St. Joseph’s Center across from the Marian Center Gift Shop you’ll find an

Originally located nine miles south of Manning, Trinity Church served the rural area for 125 years. In 2006, the congregation decided that the Church could no longer financially survive. Church members and the Manning Heritage Foundation wanted to see the structure preserved so they joined forces and raised funds to move the church to the Manning Hausbarn-Heritage Park.

Charles Johann Walensky was born in Copenhagen, Denmark and as a young man, learned the building trade. Walensky was a deeply religious man. When he was 83-years old, he began to build a miniature chapel in his own backyard as a place for people to meditate, pray and relax. The tiny chapel is just six feet wide and eight feet long. The interior is complete in every detail with an altar and pulpit. It has four pews with each just large enough to hold one person. Scriptural text illustrated with oil paintings adorn the walls and the windows are stained glass. The chapel is now located on the Danish Windmill Complex in Elk Horn.

BRANSON - Bring the entire family to the famous Sight & Sound Theater to witness the life of JESUS. Coming for the first time to Branson, this show tells the life history of the most iconic Biblical figure and how he began his teachings. Bringing the word of God to the stage, this inspiring performance travels alongside Jesus and the miracles that he performed, from saving fishermen from the raging sea of Galilee to touching the lives of those who are most unexpected. Meet figures like Peter, Mary Magdalene, and Nicodemus. The ever-inspiring message of love, faith, acceptance, and salvation of this theatrical event will delight and inspirit each live audience member who witnesses its splendor.

Sight & Sound is known as the most famous Christian theater in the world. Known for productions such as Joseph at Sight & Sound, Noah the Musical, Miracle of Christmas, and Samson, Sight & Sound strives to make every experience memorable. The theater can seet 2,000 guests and boasts an astonishing 300-foot stage that surrounds the audience from three sides, giving an immersive and spectacular experience!

By making use of special effects, a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, beautiful backdrops, elaborate costumes, a cast of talented live actors, and even live animals, the theater creates an immersive experience. Visitors can even choose to purchase the show on DVD or take a gift home from the gift shop. Each theatrical production is painstakingly created, so a visit to this theater is sure to be a dazzling time.

With its original music, massive sets, and an energizing script, each show brings an element of originality that viewers will not find anywhere else. Established by the Eschelman family, the theater prides itself on its shows in both Lancaster and Branson. Each show takes years and years to put together as every element is carefully curated to create an unforgettable time for visitors.

A Sight & Sound Theater show is a must, and the JESUS show is sure to impress. Experience the

Bible and the history of Christianity in a brand new way via original music, talented acting, and a moving show experience. You and your loved ones are sure to have a fantastic time getting inspired by the works of JESUS at Sight and

Sound Theatre, a musical stage adventure that is truly unlike any other you’ve ever seen before!

Create the perfect getaway in

Branson and discover the Bible in a unique way. After you’ve witnessed the inspiring story of Jesus

Christ, there are plenty of other great attractions, activities, and hotels to add on to your itinerary to create lasting memories in the

Ozarks.

Tickets and more information are available at https://www. sight-sound.com/

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Great Wolf Lodge is preparing to celebrate the season of rejuvenation and renewal with Spring Breakout (Feb. 26-May 2, 2021), a family-reawakening experience in the toasty-warm embrace of its indoor water park resorts.

During Spring Breakout, Great Wolf Lodge is partnering with One Tree Planted to help ensure the lush forests depicted within its resorts continue to thrive for future generations to enjoy. Great Wolf Lodge is supporting the non-profit’s tree planting efforts with a $100,000 donation to plant 100,000 trees in the U.S., and hopes to spread awareness through educational guest programming.

“While winter continues to have a tight grip over much of the country, at Great Wolf Lodge the sights, sounds, scents, and importantly the warmth of spring are in the air during our Spring Breakout celebration,” said Brooke Patterson, senior vice president of brand experiences for Great Wolf Resorts. “The forests come to life in the spring, and we are excited to launch our partnership with One Tree Planted during Spring Breakout and help replenish the forests as well as provide families the opportunity to learn more about the importance of reforestation.”

“Over time the impact of this partnership and tree planting initiative will benefit biodiversity, clean air, water, and healthy ecosystems. There is an incredible multiplier effect, and something kids can understand in a tangible way,” said Diana Chaplin, canopy director at One Tree Planted.

“Families are craving a fun-filled and safe getaway for their upcoming spring break,” added Patterson. “With health and safety protocols in place with our Paw Pledge Program and new family-friendly activities as part of our Spring Breakout celebration, our resorts offer families a safe, close, convenient and importantly fun place to spend quality time together this spring.”

Spring Breakout activities sprouting across North America’s largest family of indoor water park resorts include: • Digital Scavenger Hunt: Families can learn about the importance of trees and join the pledge to plant 100,000 trees with One Tree Planted by completing activities around the resort to earn a certificate, available on mobile devices. • “Tree to Be” Yoga Tails: Families stretch, flex and breathe in fun exercises designed to stimulate energy, imagination and self-expression. • Spring-Themed Crafts: Kids can let their imagination run wild with activities such as Make Your Own Moochi Hand Puppet, Beaded Butterflies and Dragonflies, Butterfly and Bead Rings, Spring Breakout Coloring Sheets, Spring Breakout Button Making

and more. • Spring Jamboree, Dance Party & Storytime: Guests will gather in the lobby for Spring Jamboree, with a sing-along to the new Sunshine Celebration theme song. To awaken spring, guests launch into dancing the Spring Dance, chanting the Spring Breakout motto, and showcasing the Spring Cheer of their newly created arts and crafts. That flows into a lobby dance party complete with a spring shower of bubbles and Great Wolf’s nightly storytime tale: Isn’t Nature Great. • Character Photo Ops: Families can marvel in the whimsical spring decor providing Instagrammable moments throughout the resort, while spotting Great Wolf’s lovable characters roaming the resort and capturing memories and photo ops against springtime backdrops.

One Tree Planted: Supporting Reforestation Efforts in the U.S.

Great Wolf Lodge has committed to plant 100,000 trees with a $100,000 donation to One Tree Planted, supporting their mission to create a healthier climate and protect biodiversity. Guests learn about the importance of trees to a healthy eco-system in a fun way – as part of a resort-wide digital scavenger hunt activity. Each activity takes guests to a different area of the resort with an amusing challenge, while also providing interesting facts about trees. Complete the challenge and guests are rewarded with a digital certificate that recognizes them for joining Great Wolf Lodge’s pledge and commitment to plant 100,000 trees.

In addition to Great Wolf Lodge’s $100,000 commitment, guests can make an incremental contribution through a special “add a dollar” campaign at the resort’s Buckhorn retail outlet. Every $1 donated will equal one tree planted with 100 percent of the contributions directly benefiting One Tree Planted.

Great Wolf Lodge wants to invite all families to learn more about the importance of trees and has developed an “at home” version of the scavenger hunt which is available for download on its blog (greatwolf.com/blog). As they complete the challenges at home, guests can upload their photos to social media using #GWLOneTreePlanted to join in the fun.

To learn more, please visit www.GreatWolf.com/ OneTreePlanted.