The Carl Sandburg birthplace. PhotoS BY KEITH LADAGE You read his poems in school and you have heard his name all of your life. If you are curious like I was about this man who composed folk songs and wrote poems, books about Lincoln and children’s stories for his three daughters, along with a book […]
Special Issues
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Visit the home of Lincoln’s folks
A replica of the Thomas Lincoln log cabin, eight miles south of Charleston. Abraham Lincoln’s legacy is found not just in Springfield but throughout central Illinois, where he practiced law and traveled to many locations, including Coles County. While he was in Coles County, Lincoln was able to occasionally stop by and visit his father, […]
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Let’s go to the races
Kids race in the Sizzling Mile, a one-mile race around the Sacred Heart-Griffin track in Springfield. Photo courtesy of HardyBreed.com. When life gets busy, staying fit often takes a back seat. But there’s an easy way to stay committed to your workout: sign up for a race. Simply wanting to be in shape will only […]
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Exciting summer events
PHOTO COURTESY CHAD MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY Assumption Fest6-11 p.m. Thursday, June 26; 5 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Friday, June 27; 11 a.m.-12:30 a.m. Saturday, June 28 Here’s a festival that’s been going on and growing for more than 80 years. Originally called Assumption Homecoming, Assumption Fest continues to expand. This year there’s a new large carnival, more […]
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An eclectic museum collection in Carthage
The Kibbe Museum PhotoS BY KEITH LADAGE Head west, young man or woman! About 100 miles northwest of Springfield there is an interesting museum, the Kibbe Hancock Museum, with the motto, “Where Local History Comes Alive.” The Kibbe Hancock Heritage Museum is located in Carthage, across the street from the historic jail where Joseph Smith, […]
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Exploring French Colonial Ste. Genevieve
The Bolduc House, circa 1792. It was a weekend getaway for me as I decided to make my way down to southwestern Illinois and southeastern Missouri to get a little French history lesson. I didn’t know what to expect as I started driving south toward my destinations along and near the Mississippi River. My stops […]
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Regional theater offers summer options galore
Get happy feet with Footloose at New Salem’s Theatre in the Park in June. As ever, area theater companies are putting their best feet forward this summer, offering a large variety of productions, running the gamut from Disney to Mel Brooks, from historical drama to operetta, from horror to comedy, from epics to miniatures. Rest […]
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Life together in the kitchen
When my son unexpectedly brought home a school friend for video games, homework and supper one afternoon years ago, I baked an easy cake recipe, topped it with fresh, sweet whipped cream and served it for dessert. “Where’s the box?” the friend asked. “And the can?” We just smiled at each other. From his early […]
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Support for parents facing autism has come a long way
Consider going to the doctor and hearing this: “Your son is autistic. He will never speak, he will never be able to swing on a swing, and he will never get married because he is incapable of compassion for another person.” Then, “Here is a brochure. Good luck!” Fifteen years ago, these things and […]
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A doula can help give you the birth you want
When she became pregnant, Rachel Rambach knew she wanted a doula [DUE-luh] by her side during delivery. As a first-time mother, she was daunted by the process of labor, yet determined to have an epidural-free birth. She turned to Janet Tolley of Gentle Touch Doulas in Springfield. “Janet was a calming force from the […]
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Sensational summer camps and classes for kids
Here is just a sampling of some of the fun and educational programs available to your kids this summer. Make sure to check out all the other opportunities available from these organizations – most have other classes and activities not included here. Other places that offer summer classes and camps are Springfield Art Association, Girl […]
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Repurposed furniture: A market of old and new
Julie Butler of Tossed and Found has put together rooms in her store, which features recycled and reupholstered furniture. PHOTO BY LAUREN P. DUNCAN Before throwing out that dresser with a broken drawer or the outdated coffee table, be aware there are a few people in Springfield who can turn it into something new. With […]
