Near Starved Rock State Park & Lodge, Grizzly Jack's Grand Bear Resort, Matthiessen State
Park, Buffalo Rock and the I & M Canal
Cell: 815-866-5167
Email: cgbookcafe@yahoo.com
www.cgbookcafe.com
Lodging Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Resort
Lodging, waterpark, dining, indoor amusement at Enchanted Forest, Mini-Golf, Sports Bar, Tiki Bar set in a natural canyon
grizzlyjacksresort.com 815-667-3866
Starved Rock Pet Resort
A great place to lodge your pet.
starvedrockpetresort.com 815-343-5698
Outdoor Activities Cedar Creek Ranch
Outstanding horseback riding through timbers and creeks: visit a Civil War cemetery on the property.
ccrstables.com
10 miles straight west on route 71. 815-481-3337
I&M Canal
Ride the reproduction 1848 Canal Boat at Lock 14 & Enjoy the Lock 16 Cafe' on 1st Street & Joliet in LaSalle
Tickets; $12 adults; $10 Seniors; Ages 16 & Under $6.00; Children under 3--Free/ wheelchair accessible
cca@canalcor.org
866-610-7678 or 815-223-1851 for reservations
Fish or walk or bike the canal west from Utica to LaSalle (7 miles) or east to Ottawa (8 miles)
Starved Rock Air Tours
Helicopter tours
Bird’s-eye view of starved rock valley
starvedrockairtours.com 847-247-8687
Shopping August Hill Winery
Award-winning wines in a beautiful, sophisticated setting
Mill Street, Utica 815-667-5211
Common Grounds BookCafe’
Books*Cappuccino*WiFi hotspot-great coffees and great prices on outstanding books
Specializing in children's books & politics (left, right & center)
Now Only OnLine at www.cgbookcafe.com & at Foothills Organics 815-866-5167
Foothills Organics
Organic bakery & products: Amazingly cool place--lots of artisan products, organic baked goods & produce 815-667-4700
Flutterby Gourmet Popcorn & Gifts
Top of the hill on 178, in the new strip mall, next to Alfano’s Pizzeria
flutterbypopcorn.com 815-667-4477
Seasons Gone By
Charming gifts for all seasons: Gardening, home décor & giftware 815-667-4321
Village Green House
Liquor Shop
Beer, Wine, Liquor & Gift Baskets-delivery available
to lodges 815-667-7050
Dining Alberto’s Ristorante
Exquisite Northern Italian Cuisine
1409 LaSalle Street, Ottawa, IL 815-434-6200
Alfano’s Pizzeria
Delicious pizza
On route 178, in the new strip mall; next to Flutterby Gourmet Popcorn 815-667-4778
Amici Ristorante
Excellent Italian Food
612 4th Street
Route 6, Peru, IL 815-220-1800
Canal Port
Outstanding everything-from a fried chicken dinner for $7.00 to mouthwatering steaks for $25.00
Mill Street in Utica 815-667-3010
Captain’s Cove
American cuisine, beautiful setting on the north bank of the Illinois River, located at the Starved Rock Marina.
Dine on the screened-in terrace overlooking the Illinois River. 815-434-0881
Delaney's Family Restaurant
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner as well as breakfast buffet
Reasonably priced, yummy food
100 N. Lewis Ave.
Oglesby, IL
815-883-3539
Duffy’s
Great Irish Pub Grub & Open late--serving until midnight-great selection of beers
duffystavernandgrill.com 815-667-4324
Joy & Ed's
All-American diner experience: good home cooking
113 Mill Street, Utica 815-667-4850
Lou's LaGrotto
Classic Italian deep-dish & thin-crust pizza, sandwiches, salads
Dine in or delivery
5th Street, Peru, IL 815-223-3083
Mr. Salsa
Tasty and reasonably priced Mexican cuisine in nearby Oglesby
309 E. Walnut, Oglesby, IL
815-883-9299
Nodding Onion
Upscale American cuisine-great breakfasts, lunches & dinners-also serves a sit-down Sunday brunch
thenoddingonion.com 815-667-4990
Skoog’s
Fresh & delicious pub food. Also offering an elegant guest room
upstairs
fostersuite.com 815-667-5800
Historical/
Cultural/Music
Outings
Follies Theatre
"Fabulous Fifties" show
Check out the website: www.folliestheatre.com
Mill Street, Utica
Hegeler Carus Mansion
National Historic Registry Landmark home of industrialist family Hegeler Carus; Built by famed architect in the 1800s. A local must see for interesting and
colorful local history.
6 miles west on route 6; turn right on Sterling, drive north on Sterling and turn right onto 7th Street. 815-224-6543
LaSalle County Historical Society Museum complex
Fascinating artifacts of local history: On the I&M Canal, in Utica 815-667-4861
Book Club
This month (and every month) we recommend Interview With History by Oriana Fallaci CGBookCafe review Interview with History by Oriana Fallaci
The late, great Italian reporter, Oriana Fallaci Fallaci, takes on the world of international politics in this fascinating series of interviews with top world leaders from around the globe. Anyone interested in what real journalism is all about, anyone interested in "How to form the tough questions and get real answers" needs to read this book.
Published in 1976, Interview With History is a fascinating journey through the minds and motivations of some of the most influential leaders in the 20th century. Her work is a splendid example of the art of the interview as she talks to Henry Kissinger, Golda Meir, Willy Brandt, Mohammed Riza Pahlavi, Indira Ghandi and Yasir Arafat (and many others).
The "La Fallaci" style of interview became something of a cult in North America - adversarial, emotional and extremely lengthy.
She would spend weeks researching her subject in obsessive detail and the interview itself, in which she relied entirely on a tape recorder, would last six or seven hours. If her favorite subjects were Golda Meir and Indira Ghandi, her least favourite was the Shah of Iran, whom she needled into a damning dismissal of women: "Women are important ... only if they're beautiful and charming and keep their femininity... you're equal in the eyes of the law, but not ... in intelligence."
In an interview with the Ayatollah Khomeini, she ripped off her chador. She complained about Fidel Castro's body odour and threw her microphone at Muhammad Ali's face when he belched in answer to one of her questions.
Her interviews appeared mainly in L'Europeo, the Italian magazine for which she worked for 23 years. She died in 2006, but her contributions to history and journalism will never die.
Writings by the Author:
I sette peccati di Hollywood (title means "The Seven Sins of Hollywood"), preface by Orson Welles, Longanesi (Milan), 1958.
Il sesso inutile: Viaggio intorno all donna, Rizzoli (Milan), 1961, translation by Pamela Swinglehurst published as The Useless Sex: Voyage around the Woman, Horizon Press (New York City), 1964.
Penelope alla guerra (novel), Rizzoli, 1962, translation by Swinglehurst published as Penelope at War, M. Joseph (London), 1966.
Gli antipatici, Rizzoli, 1963, translation by Swinglehurst published in England as Limelighters, M. Joseph, 1967, published as The Egotists: Sixteen Surprising Interviews , Regnery (Chicago),1968.
Se il sole muore, Rizzoli, 1965, translation by Swinglehurst published as If the Sun Dies, Atheneum (New York City), 1966.
Niente a cosi sia, Rizzoli, 1969, translation by Isabel Quigly published as Nothing, and So Be It, Doubleday (New York City), 1972 (published in England as Nothing and Amen, M. Joseph, 1972).
Quel giorno sulla Luna, Rizzoli, 1970.
Intervista con la Storia, Rizzoli, 1974, translation by John Shepley published as Interview with History, Liveright, 1976.
Lettera a un bambino mai nato, Rizzoli, 1975, translation by Shepley published as Letter to a Child Never Born, Simon & Schuster (New York City), 1976.
Un uomo: Romanzo (novel), Rizzoli, 1979, translation by William Weaver published as A Man, Simon & Schuster, 1980.
Insciallah, Rizzoli 1992, translated by James Marcus, published as Inshallah, Doubleday, 1992.
Rage and Pride, published as La rabbia e l'orgoglio, Rizzoli, 2001.
The Force of Reason, published as La forza della ragione, Rizzoli, Nov 2005.
(Not available in English) published as Se Entrevista a Si Misma: El Apocalipsis, Rizzoli, Nov 2005.
Contributor of articles to periodicals, including New Republic, New York Times Magazine, Life, La Nouvelle Observateur, Washington Post, Look, Der Stern, and Corriere della Sera.
Italian Lessons
Italian Lessons available with native speaker $15.00 per lesson Weekends
Call 815-303-5126 to
set up individual & group lessons
****
Certified Professional Translations
Italian to English and English to Italian
Call 815-866-5167
****
Want to rent a vacation home in Scopello, Sicily?
Comfortably sleeps 5 to 7 guests
$800 per week May through September
Give us a call: 815-866-5167
***
“...for an extremely pleasant
coffee break, stop at Common Grounds BookCafé.
There is a small selection of unique books, and when we visited,
a guy giving a guitar lesson at one table.” —Barbara Brotman, The Chicago Tribune,
Feb 16, 2006
"Intimate, welcoming bookstore with tables for working and sofas for lounging. WiFi and Internet
access on your laptop or their computer. Big backyard for summer concerts, drum circles, or just sipping a cup of coffee or glass of wine and reading a good
book. Good selection of children's and adult books, art, gifts, specialty foods for sale. Note: most books discounted! Superior customer service-- everyone
who walks through the door is a VIP.” --Paula Morrow, Publisher, Boxing Day Books
”Best espresso drinks and friendly atmosphere: Stopped in on our way home from Starved
Rock and were greeted like we were old friends, served great cappuccinos, and had a fun conversation with locals. We even bought a couple of great (and
inexpensive) books. This is a really unique place--the afternoon we stopped, there was a guy and his son playing Russian folk tunes on the guitar and the
balalaika in the children's book section--way cool. We'll be going back whenever we're in the area.” –Hikerclan
“Common Grounds BookCafe is always ahead of the curve. It's where interesting people meet to
discuss important and mundane issues, and it's a place where all opinions are solicited and respected. It's a relaxed, warm environment where people can get
great, authentic Italian coffees and outstanding books by local, national, and international authors as well as purchase art by local artists and gifts from
around the world. WiFi and Internet access are available, too." – M. Lewis
“While night life in
downtown Utica is limited to casual taverns like Duffy’s and Skoogs Bar & Grill, coffee lovers and literary types are regulars at the Common Grounds Book
Café. On the menu are an excellent cappuccino (the owner, Julia Mautino Messina, was a translator at the United States consulates in Naples and Palermo)
and fresh-baked scones.”--Karen Ann Cullotta, Friday, August 8, 2008
"This café offers great coffee and books! The menu includes espresso, cappuccino
and iced mocha. There also sandwiches and soups to enjoy while you read and relax. Frequent events, internet access and a friendly atmosphere keep you coming
back!" --Marriott.com City Guide
“I enjoy this cafe so much. I love to stop in for a fresh cup of great coffee and
a great book. This is a very friendly and clean cafe. They treat you like you are the most important person to walk in the door that day. I am very pleased
with this business and always look forward to stopping there to relax for awhile.”-Ronald M.
"Great selection of eclectic books."-J. Corcoran
"It's like finding a jewel in the prairie."-A. Miller
"You meet the most interesting people there."-B. Aplington
"Hands down the BEST Italian cappuccino I've had since my last trip to Italy!"-J.
Peters
WE ARE NO LONGER AT 723 SOUTH CLARK STREET IN UTICA, DON'T LOOK FOR US THERE--FIND US ONLINE
Common Grounds
Photo Gallery
September 16 & 17, 2008 Flood of the South End of Utica, Illinois,
That Wiped Us Out
First Things First...Many heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped us evacuate, haul inventory, pitch ruined inventory, stow stuff in borrowed garages, and a
special thanks to everyone who sent cards, emails, called and sent recovery donations.
Bless you and thank you all.
A special thanks to Tony & Francesco Messina, Joan & Punch Novario, State Representative (and wonderful brother Frank Mautino), Gary Martin, Mary Gramsas,
Maria Durdan, Sarah Swank, Fred & Cynthia Carus, Rich from JP Motors, Nancy Anderson, Lyle & Pat from Duffy's, Marlene Moshage, Gerard & Becky Beach from
Foothills Organics, The LaSalle County Historical Society, Bev Malooley, Ed & Sue VanLaarhoven, RaeJean & Ramona, Doug Gift, and all of my wonderful &
concerned regulars & business colleagues in the Utica business community.
Local Business News--in the Illinois Valley
Common Grounds BookCafe Cafe' & Bookshop Equipment for Sale
Café’ in a Box
On SEPTEMBER 16, 2008 the Illinois River overflows its banks, reaches a historic level and wipes out the south end of Utica, Illinois,
including Common Grounds BookCafe. UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE, WE ARE OUT OF BUSINESS AND SELLING OFF OUR INVENTORY AND EQUIPMENT. Give me a call, and I'll make
you a deal (815-866-5167).
Commercial restaurant equipment available for purchase:
2-door undercounter Delfield commercial refrigerator: $1,600
4-steel 30" X 48” prep tables:$150 each
1-30" X 30" steel prep table: $100
Open sign--neon: $50
Cash register: $50
72" bookshelves (4): $25 each
36" bookshelves (5): $20 each
3 compartment bar sink with 2 drainboards: $400 or best offer
2-group Astoria commercial espresso machines (2):$4,000 or best offer
36-inch 4-burner gas stove:$500
French pastry display case (dry case):$1,200 or best offer
Electric outdoor illuminated sign:$1,000
2-Chest freezer 5’cf:$75
Call 815-866-5167
or email: cgbookcafe@yahoo.com for further info
Upcoming Events in the Illinois Valley Area
ON THE HORIZON 2009
24/7-365 Throughout the year at Starved Rock Find these events & more at www.starvedrocklodge.com
"Art in the Park" Masterful Chainsaw Carvings:A FREE art exhibit in nature. Pick up an "Art in the Park" brochure at the registration desk of the Lodge Lobby or in the brochure rack of the Great Hall and set out on a journey of discovery. 30 masterful chainsaw carvings representing subjects as varied as wildlife to wildflowers and Native American subjects to Abe Lincoln can be found throughout the Lodge grounds. Many of the outdoor carvings were created from IDNR-approved trees on site. Make a game of it with your kids, your friends, or your colleagues or use the opportunity as a teaching tool for your students.
Wine & Shopping Tour
Fridays in April 1:00p.m.- 3:30p.m. Board a Starved Rock Trolley and travel to the wine tasting room at Cattails and receive a glass to sample wine of your choosing. Cattails will also offer you an extraordinary shopping experience. The Trolley will also stop downtown Utica with another wine tasting stop at August Hill Winery and The Cheatin' Gourmet.
You will be free to shop downtown Utica or just relax in the wine tasting room at August Hill. $17.00 per person.
Call 815-220-7386 to reserve.
Every April--Kids 'n the Canyons
Sundays: April 26th 11:00a.m. - 2:30p.m. Attention parents, grandparents, aunts & uncles! Bring your favorite youngster for a trolley ride and a guided tour to see Ottawa Canyon and Council Overhang. The tour includes an easy-on-the-feet beginner's hike and brunch in the Starved Rock Lodge Main Dining Room. Adults $33.00, Child 10 and under $22.00 Call 815-220-7386.
Every April & May Waterfall & Canyon Tour
Mondays & Saturdays in April and May 9:00am-1:00pm or 11:00am-3:00pm *call for availability.* Experience the fun of outdoor adventure at Starved Rock State park with a guided walk to 3 spectacular waterfalls and canyons. We will visit French, and St. Louis Canyons as well as Lake Falls at Matthiessen State Park.
The tour will also include your selection from our Special lunch menu and a relaxing historical trolley ride.
For reservations, please call 815-220-7386. $29.00 Adults, $24.00 Children
BesPhoto Workshop May 2, 2009
Interested in Photography? Do you want to learn more about how to operate your specific camera? We will cover camera operation, photographic theory, and composition while hiking the trails of Starved Rock. We will spend one-on-one time with you working with your specific camera.
We welcome all types of cameras and photographers. Cost is $100.
For more information see www.BesPhoto.com or to sign up contact Mike Bessler at 630-667-5174 or email Mike@BesPhoto.com
Other Starved Rock Workshop dates include: August 1, 2009 & September 26, 2009
Every May - Blessing of the Bikes On May 3, 2009 @ noon & 1:30p.m. Stop by Starved Rock Lodge's East parking lot and have your motorcycle blessed by local clergy in one of two ceremonies. The blessings remind us that life is a journey and we need to ask for God's protection.
A great kick-off for biking season!
Open to the public. 815-220-7386
Every May WILDFLOWER WEEKEND: May 2 & 3, 2009
Discover the Rock in the springtime. Enjoy a guided hike to view the great variety of wildflowers throughout Starved Rock State Park.
Hikes depart from the Visitor Center at 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. both days.
No reservations needed.
Every May--Native American Pow Wow: May 16 & 17, 2009
5th annual Honor the Eagle Pow Wow. Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. & Sunday from Noon to 5:00 p.m. Highlights of the event are the cultural presentations, storytelling, and traditional Native American dances and drum circles. Check out the artisan products, Indian crafts and jewelry and souvenirs. Children's games and crafts. Sponsored by Starved Rock & Midwest Soarring Foundation.
Every June--June 14, 2009 Blues, Brews & BBQ
Spend the afternoon listening to outstanding Blues on The Veranda while sipping on specialty beers from around the world. Advanced Tickets for the BBQ Buffet & Beer Tasting are: $19.95 and can be purchased by calling: 1-800-868-7625 ext 375.
Band from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.: Mike Milligan & The Steamshovels Blues.
Every June: Summer Flute Showcase in the Great Hall @ The Lodge--June 25, 2009
As part of the Annual Summer Flute Retreat at Illinois Valley Community College, faculty and participants will perform a concert preview. Showcase will be in the Great Hall.
Open to the public, no charge, no reservations needed.
Every Summer - Colgate Country Showdown June 16 through July 28, 2009
FREE & Open to the Public!
Join us EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT (June 16 through July 28) on the Veranda at Starved Rock Lodge as entertainers sing their hearts out. WALS-FM will host the 28th annual edition of America's Largest Country Music Talent Search.
The winner from this local competition will move on to perform in the state Country Showdown in August. State winners, each of whom earns a $1,000 cash prize, will advance to their regional competition in the fall. Entertainment begins 7:00p.m. The grill opens at 5:00 p.m. To participate contact WALS-FM office in Peru by calling 815-224-2100
Don't miss an opportunity to enjoy a "Country Showdown Overnight Package," on competition nights. Book now for the following dates:
June 16, 23, 30 for $115 (includes overnight stay for 2 people and a $15 breakfast voucher) BOOK NOW!
July 7, 14, 21 for $140 (includes overnight stay for 2 people and a $15 breakfast voucher) BOOK NOW!
July 28th FINALE NIGHT! $145 (includes overnight stay for 2 people, a $15 breakfast voucher, a Back Stage Pass and special seating section at the Country Showdown Finale & a photo memento with the Winner of the Colgate Country Showdown) BOOK NOW!
Every June: Land and Water Afternoon Cruise Mondays & Saturdays Times vary by date Tour includes a historical trolley ride, hot lunch buffet at Starved Rock Lodge, and a leisurely 1 hour river cruise on the Belle of the Rock, an authentic paddle wheel boat. Tickets are $35.00 per person. For tickets and information call: 815-220-7386. Every
June: Casual Dinner and Evening Cruise MONDAYS & THURSDAYS 5:30p.m. to 8:00p.m Board a Starved Rock Lodge Trolley and travel to the Belle of the Rock, an authentic Paddle Wheel Boat for a leisurely cruise on the picturesque Illinois River. After the cruise, the trolley will bring you back to the Lodge, where you will enjoy dinner served with cheesecake for dessert. $34.95 per person. Please call 815-220-7386 for reservations.
The Legacy Girls--An Andrews Sisters Musical Tribute Show: August 17th, September 14th and and a Special Veteran's Day Performance on November 11th from Noon to 2:30p.m. Begin your trip back to the Boogie Woogie days of the 30s and 40s with a Homestyle Lunch Buffet in the Great Hall of the Starved Rock Lodge. The vocal trio, The Legacy Girls, will entertain you with three-part harmonies, costumes and synchronized dances that are true to the Andrews Sisters' style. The Legacy Girls are dedicated to bringing the songs of the past back to life. Each show is a so much more that just a musical experience, it's a unique journey back in time.
Every September: Vintage Illinois Wine Festival Sept. 19th and 20th 2009 Saturday 11:00-6:00p.m. & Sunday 12:00-5:00p.m. Sponsored by the Illinois Grape Growers & Vintner's Association. Featuring 21 Illinois Wineries from around the State. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and enjoy Illinois wine, great food, music and the atmosphere of beautiful Mattiessen Rock State Park.
For information and tickets call 1-800-868-7625 ext 386
Every October: Oktoberfest Come to Starved Rock Lodge to celebrate October German style on the Veranda. The beauty of fall on our Veranda will be mixed with the flavor of ten seasonal beers. Enjoy our Authentic German Buffet for $16.95. "The Doodledorfers" German band will be playing from 5:00-8:30p.m. $6.00 to sample 10 Oktoberfest beers and $10.00 for a commemorative stein (while supplies last) and 10 free tastings. No cover charge. For more information please call 815-220-7386.
Every October: Trolley Fall Colors Tour 9:30a.m.-1:00p.m. & 11:00a.m.-2:30p.m. Mondays and Saturdays Enjoy Starved Rock during the most beautiful time of the year. Tour includes a relaxing trolley ride, soup and salad bar lunch in our rustic dining room, and a guided scenic walk to Council Overhang and Ottawa Canyon. $27 Adult $22 Under 10 For more information and to purchase tickets call 800-868-7625 ext. 386
Every October: Fall Fireside Stories Saturday Evenings in October at 7-8:30 p.m. Join Trish Kelly around the fire pit on our Pool Patio as she shares Irish Tales, animal-related stories and a ghost story or two. It's free and suited for all ages. Popcorn and beverages available. Please bring your own lawn chairs and blankets.
Every OCTOBER: October 11th Burgoo Festival 9:00-5:00p.m. It's time again for LaSalle County Historical Society's Annual Burgoo Festival!
Stroll the main streets of Utica for a day of crafts, shopping, food & fun.
While you are there be sure to try the Pioneer stew! Located in Utica.
October 17th& 18th Fall Colors Weekend Guided hikes to view the spectacular colors of fall.
Meet at the Visitor Center at 9:00a.m.& 1:00p.m. both days. 800-868-7625 ext. 386
Every November: Leinenkugel Dinner--Nov.13, 2009 6:30p.m. $40.00 per person
This fun evening includes a dinner where Leinenkugel beer is a featured ingredient in all of the dishes you'll enjoy. You will also be able to taste the Leinenkugel beer variety.
There will also be chances to win great prizes. All ticketholders will be entered to win an official Leinenkugel Canoe. Must be present to win.
Tickets are $40.00 per person. Order in advance by calling 800-868-7625 ext. 386
Canal Boat and Trolley Tour FRIDAYS - April 17th through November 13th 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Join us for the newest history tour LaSalle County has to offer. Start off with a delicious hot lunch buffet in the rustic dining room at Starved Rock Lodge. After lunch, one of our trolleys will take you to our State Park's Visitor Center. Next, your trolley will take you to board a relaxing ride on the historic Canal Boat located at Lock 14 in LaSalle. Step back in time with period-dressed interpreters on this 1-hour canal boat ride. Finish the tour with a final stop at the Lock 16 Visitor Center. Each passenger will receive a commemorative souvenir. $35.00 Adult $30.00 children 10 and under. Call 815-220-7386 to reserve.
Every December: "Christmas at the Lodge" presented by the Prairie Singers
December 4, 2009--from 7:00-9:00p.m.
The Prairie Singers are a chamber ensemble that will perform music from a broad range of historical periods, along with a wide variety of show tunes, popular, and classical favorites. We will start the evening with a few seasonal songs before enjoying a delicious dinner served in the historic Starved Rock Lodge. After dinner the Prairie Singers will deliver a musical delight to warm the heart.
Tickets are $37.00 per person. For more information and to purchase tickets call 815-220-7386.
Every December: Breakfast with Santa 8:30a.m.-11:30a.m.
Join the jolly man himself, as well as the Mrs., for a breakfast buffet right here at Starved Rock Lodge.
Following breakfast, you'll be treated to Christmas stories told by Mrs. Claus. Children may take turns sitting on Santa's lap to tell him their Christmas wishes and receive a chocolate treat.
Adults $11.95/ Under 10 $8.95 Early reservations a must.
815-220-7386
Every January: Bridal Expo 2010-Love For Every Season January 3rd from Noon-3:00p.m. Experience the Lodge decorated in its full wedding elegance, sample cake, talk with our staff, and spend the day meeting the best wedding vendors in the area. Join us for our annual Bridal Expo at Starved Rock Lodge in the Great Hall. Call 815-667-4211 ext 386 for more details.
Every March: Tourism Day--Save the Date: March 21, 2010 Join us all day long in the Great Hall at Starved Rock to check out Illinois Valley attractions: I&M Canal Boat, Historical Society Museum, Petting Zoo, Visitor Centers, Local Restaurants and Shopping, Alpaca Farm, Follies Theatre, Canyonside Cabin & Courtyard Wedding Facility, Canoeing, River Rapids, Helicopter Rides, Horseback Riding and much more! There's always something to do in the Valley. From 11am to 4pm. Don't forget to check out our newest outdoor venue for weddings and meetings: the Canyonside Cabin & Courtyard, overlooking Fox Canyon: Visit from 11am to 4pm.
Every March: Annual American Breast Cancer Foundation Style Show Fund Raiser
**************************
Common Grounds Bookcafe Store
Products available online, via email or telephone order and at the kiosk at Foothills Organics in Downtown Utica (815-667-
4700)
How to Order Gifts, Books & Coffee from Common Grounds BookCafe’
If you'd like to place an order, you can contact us one of three
ways:
Regular Mail Common Grounds BookCafe’ 320 E. Second Street, Spring Valley, IL 61362
If you plan to pay by credit card, We need the following information:
• Shipping address
• Billing address (address that your credit card bill is sent to)
• Card number
• Expiration date
• Name on the card
• 3-digit ID code from the back of your card
Retro, Political & Naughty Magnets available at the shop or online:
$4.75
Coffees Available On-Line from Common Grounds BookCafe
Fair Trade & Socially Conscious Coffees Always Sold Here
Ethiopian Harrar $13.95 one pound foil bag (whole bean)
Sumatra $13.95 one pound foil bag (whole bean)
Dominican Republic $13.95 one pound foil bag (whole bean)
Decaf Organic House Blend $13.95 one pound foil bag (whole bean)
Half-Caf Organic Full City Blend $13.95 one pound foil bag (whole bean)
Local Authors' books available online here and at Foothills Organics on Church Street in Utica:
Ron Bluemer, author of Fire Below! The Cherry Mine
Disaster of 1909; Speakeasy: Prohibition in the Illinois Valley,Home Front: WWII in the Illinois Valley, and many more titles. (All
Bluemer books:Price $21.00)
Dan Churney, author of Capone's Cornfields: The Mob in the Illinois Valley. (Price:$21.00)
David Crosby, author of Chasing Charlie Chan (Price:$19.95)
David Crosby, author of The Zero Defects Option This groundbreaking work by industrial quality management consultant
Crosby explains your role in producing defect-free products and services. The U.S. Army awarded Crosby the Outstanding Civilian Service Medal for his
work on the Army Zero Defects Program. His book is available at Common Grounds BookCafe. (Price:$23.95)
Myke Feinman, author of The Teddy Bear Conspiracies. (Price:$21.95)
Father Dominic Garramone, OSB, author of 'Tis the Season to Be Baking (Price:$12.00) and the Baking Bread with Father
Dominic series. (Price:$19.95)
Dr. Gnagey (Thomas Atherton), the Clinical Psychologist who disappeared 20 years ago from Ottawa and who has recently surfaced
and author of My Unrelenting Darkness (Price: $14.99).
Father Bernard Horzen, author of Maybe Be Rain, a memoir of beloved and highly respected St. Bede Academy monk, science
whiz, and world traveler. It'll make you laugh and make you cry--reading his words is like listening to his quirky, Slovenian-inflected, wonderful voice.
Great anecdotes. (Price:$15.00)
Donna Kelly, author of Cop Eyes and former appellate defense lawyer for Chester Weger, convicted of the Starved Rock
Murders. (Price:$21.95)
Amanda Kennedy, author of The Romance Gone Wrong. (Price:$19.95)
Carole Ledbetter, author of Who Am I Now? Growing Through Life's Changing Seasons.(Price:$16.00)
Susan MacQuoid, author of Dead Dog (Price:$19.95)
Monica Morris, author of Rory's Song. (Price:$19.99) Check out her website: monicatheresemorris.com
Laura Neuhalfen, RN, CNEH, author of A Hospice Nurse Finds the Many Faces of God. (Price:$10.95)
Doris Popovich, RN, MA, and Joan Cantwell, RN, MA, authors of 21 Peaceful Nurses: Essays on a Spiritually Guided Practice.
(Price:$14.95)
Barbara Seuling, author of Say It with Music, (Price:$16.95) published by new Illinois Valley publishing house, Boxing Day
Books. Check out the website: www.PaulaMorrow.com
Judith Sment, author of My Walk with God.A woman's spiritual journey. (Price:$24.95)
Karen Super (Also writing as Amanda Kae Hope), author of A Super Cookbook, With Dietary Rules
from Scripture (Price:$16.95) and The Adventures of Thalia, Poppy, and Pepper. a children's tale of adventure and spiritual awakening.
(Price:$19.00)
Steve Stout, author of The Starved Rock Murders (Price:$10.00) ; Starved Rock Stories (Price:$20.00) and
Starved Rock State Park: A Pictoral Guide. (Price:$5.00)
Rhonda Telfer, author of Grandpa's Treasure. Farm life photo essay--growing up on a Midwestern farm.
(Price:$21.00)
Steve Wiggins, author of Streets of Warsaw.Fascinating narrative on the Polish Resistance Movement during WWII.
(Price:$21.95)
Paul Wood, author of The Traveling Heart. Collected poems of a life in turmoil and travel. (Price:$12.95)
Robin Weidner, author of Secure In Heart, a woman's spiritual journey to find her place in the world--an examination
of the Eve tradition. (Price:$15.00)
Ann Maxwell-Weisbrod, author of Pick Your Nose & Make A Face, an interactive magnetic art book that showcases Ann's
wildly creative and humorous artwork. To view many of her original pieces, visit her Peru, Illinois, restaurant, MarkAllen's, where her interactive
art adorns the walls throughout. (corner of 10th & Peoria Streets 815-220-0642). (Book Price:$18.95)
David Youngquist, author of Ghosts of Interstate 80 (Price:$9.95).
David Youngquist, author of Ghosts of the Illinois Canal System (Price:$9.95) (Photo cover by local photographer,
Paula Guttilla).
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A New Beginning
Let me tell you a story...by Julia Mautino Messina
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Fun New Things to Buy at Common Grounds Bookcafe--Since You Can't Stop In, Keep Supporting Us By Buying Coffe, Books,
and Gift Items Online and at our Kiosk at Foothills Organics on Church Street in Utica!
Fun Cookie & Cake Decorations: From the ocean, zoo and farm, selections of shapes just for fun for any occasion. $4.99 each variety pack
• Dolphins • Dinosaurs • Fish Mix • Star/Moon Mix • Bear Mix • Star Mix
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Outstanding Spices for all cuisines & tastes...at a really reasonable price: $4.99 each
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$22.00 each set includes extra-virgin olive oil, spices, bread-dipping dishes
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Yummy Desserts & Great Hostess Gifts! only $13.99 each
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Interesting People Were Always Reading & Buying Books at Common Grounds BookCafe, Your Locally Owned and Operated Bookstore in the
Illinois Valley--Now you can simply order what you want online!
This Month's Author is David Youngquist, author of Ghosts of the Illinois Canal
System
Tiskilwa writer David Younquist is the author of a collection of ghostly stories from along the I&M canal. Charming, funny and
some a little naughty, David brings together a series of brief tales that are sure to entertain and amuse local readers and visitors familiar with the I&M
Canal. The cover photgraphy is provided by award-winning local photographer Paula Guttilla. Her haunting image of the canal running behind the LaSalle County
Historical Society Museum shrouded in an early morning mist sets the scene for the stories that follow.--Julia Messina
Congratulations to author David Youngquist and cover photographer Paula Guttilla, whose collection of local ghost stories, Ghosts of the Illinois Canal
System sold over 100 books at the book launch party and more the first week of its release! Order your copies today: 815-866-5167
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Artists’ Corner
Featured Artists: All Local Artists Ever Exhibited at
Common Grounds BookCafe
This month we are featuring all of the wonderful local artists whose works
have graced the walls of Common Grounds BookCafe over the past 5 years
Alena Nikifarava Marcia Crosby Paula Guttilla Paula Guttilla's photo-cover of "Gosts of the I&M Canal"
Suzanne Dody Joyce Thomas Sue Van Laarhoven Stacy
Sampson Jim Krancic
Purchase this artwork online at www.cgbookcafe.com Common Grounds BookCafe, the Ottawa Art League & Foothills Organics on Church Street, in Utica:
Julia Messina @
Common Grounds BookCafe
320 E. Second Street
Spring valley, IL 61362
cgbookcafe@yahoo.com
815-866-5167
Musicians' Corner
Celebrating all of the wonderful local musicians who have played at Common Grounds BookCafe over the past five
years
Dick Verucchi & Mary Gramsus Tina & Tom Smith, Tony Messina Thomas Smith, bassist Rich Giacobazzi, Terry Feldot, Gerard Beach Pete Hamilton Josh Margowski & Mary Gramsus Dick Verucchi Dave Peterson Ray Tutaj Jimi Tarnowski Gerard Beach, owner
of Foothills Organics in Utica
Luisa Messina Bud Blomquist
Common Grounds BookCafe’ is Cookin’!
Jerusalem Artichokes Sautee'
What You’ll Need:
1 large onion, chopped
5 peeled & chopped Jerusalem artichokes (get them at organic grocers--my favorite is Foothills Organics in Utica, IL (815-667-4700)
2 cloves of garlic, chopped
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 medium potatoes, peeled & chopped
12 fresh Brussel sprouts, halved
Spices: salt, pepper, parsley, curry,
What to Do:
Saute onions, garlic, potatoes, Brussel sprouts & Jerusalem artichokes in olive oil and spices
Add 1/2 cup of water and 1 chicken broth cube
Cover and cook on low heat, stirring occasionally until done
Recipe Compliments of Common Grounds BookCafe’ (Celebrating bizzare tubers)
Jobs & Announcements
Valley Job Connections & Announcements
Let People Know What You’re Looking For $10.00 per listing, per month
Send Your Listings to: cgbookcafe@yahoo.com
make checks payable to : Common Grounds BookCafe
320 E. Second Street
Spring Valley, IL 61362
Farm-Fresh Produce
& Litterbox-trained Kittens!
Call Liz @ 815-538-2820 for info and directions:
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Celebrating the Class of 1978
30 Years of Friendship
dinosaurs*dolphins*stars*moons*bears*fish*
cows*pigs*ducks*chicks
fish*stars*bears*dolphins
turtles*tropical fish*sharks*seals*sea horses*dolphins
elephants*alligators*lions*dolphins*gorillas*seals
Alena Nikifarava
Marcia Crosby
Paula Guttilla 
Paula Guttilla's photo-cover of "Gosts of the I&M Canal"
Suzanne Dody
Joyce Thomas
Sue Van Laarhoven
Stacy
Sampson
Jim Krancic
Dick Verucchi & Mary Gramsus
Tina & Tom Smith, Tony Messina
Thomas Smith, bassist
Rich Giacobazzi, Terry Feldot, Gerard Beach
Pete Hamilton
Josh Margowski & Mary Gramsus
Dick Verucchi
Dave Peterson
Ray Tutaj
Jimi Tarnowski
Gerard Beach, owner
of Foothills Organics in Utica
Luisa Messina
Bud Blomquist
