Southern Illinois Revisited

I graduated from Southern Illinois in 1975 and decided a trip back was
way overdue. We had intended to camp in the Shawnee National Forest
where I had spent many happy weekends. But the threat of
thunderstorms caused us to seek more protective shelter,

As we drove through Murphysboro we passed Angelo & Jan's Inn. The
place was funky but the price was right so we booked 2 nights. Tables
and chairs for dining in 4 areas but no food served, just coffee in
the mornings.

We went to the SIU campus on a Sunday, the day before start of summer
session. It brought back memories watching students moving in their
stuff at Thompson Point. But the dorms looked kind of tired, in need
of a facelift in addition to the inside remodeling many of thr
buildings were getting.

Driving around the campus it was disappointing how much of the open
spaces of my era had been covered with new buildings, many of which
didn't seem to fit archetectually.

The town of Carbondale was worse. All the retail moved out toward the
mall that opened in my time. The main drag that had been alive with
bars, restaurants and clothing stores was dead. We patronized Chicago
Hot Dogs (no more pinball and run now by an Asian couple) and Dairy
Queen. The Varsity Theatre no longer shows movies buy PK's bar still
operates and the train station is still in town.

We spent some time in Giant City state park. The lodge, water tower
and trails could use more attention; it is easy to see the potential
if only some money could be allocated.

We played a round at the Jackson County course but we weren't prepared
for the heat and humidity. Guess we'd better adjust before getting
home to Florida! We enjoyed eating at small town restaurants in
Murphysboro, including Mike Mills' famous 17th Street Bar and Grill,
the only 3 time World Grand Champions at the Memphis world barbeque
competition. Mike had just come back from a barbeque event in New
York, where he had appeared on Good Morning America, so we were glad
we arrived early and got a table.

I sure like the feel of life in a small town. It may not be
Carbondale or Murphysboro, but maybe I'll find my next home in a small
town. Some place green, some place without snow though. Send me your
suggestions!