The Atlanta Public Library, located in Atlanta, Illinois

 The Atlanta Public Library, located in Atlanta, Illinois, is a notable example of small-town architectural charm and civic pride. Established in the early 1900s, the building is a cornerstone of the community and reflects the town’s historical roots and dedication to public service.

Designed in a distinctive octagonal shape, the library stands out both structurally and culturally. Its unique design is one of the few remaining examples of octagon-style architecture used in public buildings. This layout not only provides a sense of symmetry and openness but also showcases the innovative thinking of the era in which it was built.

Over the years, the library has evolved beyond its traditional role of lending books. It serves as a hub for local events, educational programs, and community gatherings. The interior, while updated to accommodate modern needs, still retains much of its original character, preserving the historical essence that makes the building special.

Adjacent to the library is a restored octagonal-shaped telephone booth, adding another layer of historical interest and charm to the site. Together, they highlight the community’s ongoing efforts to honor and maintain its heritage.

The Atlanta Public Library continues to be a place where history, learning, and community intersect. It remains a treasured landmark in the heart of Illinois, bridging the past with the present in both form and function.

The historic Cook County Hospital Administration Building

 

The building at 1835 W Harrison Street in Chicago, Illinois, is the historic Cook County Hospital Administration Building. Completed in 1914, this eight-story Beaux-Arts structure was designed by architect Paul Gerhardt. It played a significant role in providing medical care to early immigrants and low-income residents, becoming renowned as a teaching hospital and the site of several medical breakthroughs, including the development of the first blood bank in the United States and the discovery of the cause of sickle-cell anemia. After its closure in 2002, the building underwent a $133 million rehabilitation and reopened in 2020 as a mixed-use development, featuring a 210-room hotel, retail spaces, and a museum.

A look back - September 19, 2012 - Evergreen Lake’s Vanishing Waters Reveal Hidden Paths

 

Evergreen Lake’s Vanishing Waters Reveal Hidden Paths

HUDSON, IL. (SEPT 19, 2012) — The south end of Evergreen Lake looks vastly different this September. Where Barred Owl Trail would normally meet the water’s edge, hikers now step onto a cracked and barren lake bed, a stark reminder of the relentless 2012 drought.

For months, the lack of rain has drained the once-thriving reservoir, exposing long-submerged land. What was once unreachable by foot—small, tree-covered islands—are now accessible, their roots gripping dry earth instead of rippling currents.

Local hikers take advantage of the eerie transformation, tracing paths normally lost beneath the lake’s surface. But for longtime residents, the sight is unsettling. "I’ve never seen it this low," said one visitor, kicking at the dust where water once stood.

Forecasters predict continued dry conditions, leaving the future of Evergreen Lake uncertain. For now, it remains a place of both opportunity and concern—where nature’s extremes carve new trails in the absence of water.

Elkhart Illinois - Route 66, the Mother road

 

On a warm April afternoon in Elkhart, Illinois, along the weathered stretch of Historic Route 66, a bench crafted from the rusted tailgate of a 1957 Chevrolet pickup truck sat outside a model raceway establishment. The tailgate’s faded paint gleamed faintly in the sunlight, a relic of a bygone era repurposed into a quirky seat. On to it sat Ronald McDonald, or rather, a weathered statue of the fast-food icon, his red shoes dulled to a soft pink, his chipped grin fixed in perpetual cheer.

The odd pairing of the tailgate bench and Ronald marked the edge of the raceway lot, a haven for hobbyists and nostalgia buffs. Inside, the hum of tiny engines filled the air as enthusiasts raced miniature cars around intricate tracks, their shouts and laughter drifting out into the quiet afternoon. The bench, otherwise unoccupied, seemed to wait patiently, as if it held stories of its own—perhaps of the truck it once belonged to, rumbling down the Mother Road decades ago.

As the sun climbed higher, heating up Route 66, Ronald sat as a sentinel on the tailgate, his painted eyes gazing out over the bright concrete of the street. The scene remained still, a snapshot of small-town charm and faded glory, tethered to the enduring legacy of the historic highway.

Big Things, Small Town - Casey IL

 Casey, Illinois, a small town with a population of approximately 2,700, has garnered international recognition for its collection of oversized attractions. Embracing the motto "Big Things in a Small Town," Casey boasts several Guinness World Record-certified structures that have revitalized its community and drawn tourists from around the globe.

The initiative began in 2012 with the unveiling of the World's Largest Wind Chime, a 54-foot-tall structure that quickly became a focal point for visitors. Encouraged by the positive response, the town expanded its collection to include other record-breaking items such as:

• World's Largest Rocking Chair: Standing at 56 feet tall, this massive chair is situated in front of City Hall.​ (Pictured)

• World's Largest Golf Tee: Located at the Casey Country Club, this tee reaches a height of 30 feet and weighs over 6,000 pounds.​

• World's Largest Mailbox: A functional mailbox towering at 32 feet, allowing visitors to send postcards from within.​

• World's Largest Pitchfork: Measuring 60 feet in length, this pitchfork is displayed outside a local restaurant.​

In addition to these record-holding structures, Casey features numerous other oversized items, including a giant birdcage, pencil, and yardstick, all contributing to the town's unique charm. These attractions have significantly boosted local tourism, leading to increased foot traffic and the opening of new businesses in the downtown area.​

Visitors to Casey can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town, interacting with these massive installations, many of which are designed to be touched, climbed on, or even used. This interactive experience, combined with the town's welcoming atmosphere, makes Casey a noteworthy destination for those seeking both novelty and a sense of community spirit.

"The Great Pelican Paddle-Off"

On a breezy warm spring morning, three American white pelicans—Carl, Bev, and Frank—bobbed along the glassy surface of Evergreen Lake in McLean County, Illinois. They had stopped for a layover during their annual migration, and as usual, boredom was setting in.

"I’m telling you," Carl said, flapping a wing dramatically, "I caught a fish this big yesterday."

"That wasn’t a fish," Bev scoffed. "It was a soggy flip-flop. And you nearly choked on it."

Frank, the self-appointed philosopher of the group, dipped his bill into the water and sighed. "Isn’t it curious," he mused, "how humans throw their shoes into lakes? What if those flip-flops are part of a secret migration ritual?"

Bev rolled her eyes. "You’d think less if you fished more."

Carl, not one to be outdone, straightened his neck. "Alright, enough chit-chat. Let’s settle this with a good old-fashioned Paddle-Off. First one across the lake wins bragging rights—and the best fishing spot."

And so, the Great Pelican Paddle-Off began.

Carl surged ahead with reckless enthusiasm, sending water everywhere and startling a family of turtles. Bev, focused and calculating, glided smoothly, drafting behind Carl to conserve energy. Frank? He took a more leisurely approach, pondering the meaning of water ripples and occasionally stopping to admire his own reflection.

Halfway across, Carl burned out, wings aching. "I’m not saying I peaked early, but—" he huffed, as Bev shot past him with a gleeful squawk.

Just as Bev neared the finish, Frank floated by without breaking a sweat—or a feather. "You know," he said dreamily, "sometimes the fastest way across is to let the wind do the work."

He drifted gracefully over the finish line, winning the Paddle-Off through sheer philosophical detachment.

Carl and Bev caught up, glaring at their unflappable friend.

"Well, Frank," Bev said grudgingly, "I guess you earned the best fishing spot."

Frank smiled. "Oh, you two go ahead. I’m just here for the vibes—and the occasional soggy flip-flop."

And with that, the three pelicans paddled off into the sunset, their rivalry settled—for now.

Braydon Laesch - Heyworth Hornets & Andrew Fleming - Le Roy Panthers

  Best Look Magazine proudly presents the 2025 McLean County Area High School Boys Basketball All Star Photo Series, showcasing the region's most talented and dedicated young athletes.

Capturing the intensity, skill, and passion of these standout players, this exclusive series celebrates the future stars of the court who have left an indelible mark on the season.

Enjoy the breathtaking action shots and join us in honoring the grit and glory of McLean County’s finest in this unforgettable collection.

Check out all the Best Look in Sports Action photos at www.alanlook.com!

See the Alan Look Photography facebook page for current specials.

Braydon Laesch - 

Andrew Fleming

Brock Holtz - Bloomington High School Purple Raiders!

 Best Look Magazine proudly presents the 2025 McLean County Area High School Boys Basketball All Star Photo Series, showcasing the region's most talented and dedicated young athletes.

Capturing the intensity, skill, and passion of these standout players, this exclusive series celebrates the future stars of the court who have left an indelible mark on the season.

Enjoy the breathtaking action shots and join us in honoring the grit and glory of McLean County’s finest in this unforgettable collection.

Brock Holtz - Bloomington High School Purple Raiders!

This day in history (March 23, 2022) - ISU Redbird Baseball shuts down UIC Flames

 

NORMAL, Ill. — Ryan Cermak powered the Illinois State Redbirds to a 9-5 victory over the University of Illinois-Chicago Flames on Sunday, smashing two home runs in a standout performance at Duffy Bass Field.

Cermak’s second homer of the game came in a pivotal moment, electrifying the crowd as he leaped onto home plate to complete his trot around the bases. The Redbirds’ offense erupted for nine runs, overwhelming the Flames in a contest that showcased Illinois State’s dominance in the matchup.

The win improved Illinois State’s record as they capitalized on a balanced attack against UIC’s pitching. The Flames, despite a late rally, couldn’t close the gap, finishing the game with five runs.

The Redbirds’ victory underscored their strong play in the Missouri Valley Conference, while UIC struggled to keep pace. Both teams are set to continue their seasons with upcoming conference games later this week.

This day in history: Stevenson Claims IHSA Class 4A State Title With Victory Over Normal Community

PEORIA, Ill. (March 21, 2015) — Stevenson captured its first IHSA Class 4A boys basketball state championship Saturday night, defeating Normal Community at the Carver Center inside the Peoria Civic Center.

The Patriots, hailing from Lincolnshire, controlled the game from the outset, using a balanced offensive attack and stifling defense to keep the Ironmen from finding a consistent rhythm. Stevenson established an early lead and maintained its momentum, capitalizing on key scoring runs and defensive stops.

Normal Community, making its bid for a state title, struggled to break through Stevenson’s defensive pressure. Despite flashes of offensive success, the Ironmen were unable to mount a sustained comeback as Stevenson maintained control throughout the contest.

With the win, Stevenson secures its place in program history, capping off a dominant season with the school’s first-ever Class 4A state championship. The victory marks a significant achievement for the Patriots, who reached the pinnacle of Illinois high school basketball on Saturday night.

The game concludes a competitive season in IHSA Class 4A, with both teams showcasing their talent and resilience on the state’s biggest stage. Stevenson’s triumph solidifies its standing among Illinois high school basketball’s elite programs.

This Day in History - March 19, 2010 Hope College Defeats Rochester 86-75 to Advance to DIII Championship Final

  

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (AP) March 19, 2010 — The Flying Dutch of Hope College punched their ticket to the NCAA Division III Women’s Basketball Championship final Friday night, defeating the University of Rochester Yellowjackets 86-75 in a hard-fought semifinal at the Shirk Center at Illinois Wesleyan.

The game featured intense competition, including a moment when Hope’s Philana Greene and Rochester’s Jodie Luther wrestled for a loose ball. Ultimately, the Flying Dutch pulled away with strong offensive play and clutch shooting to secure the victory.

Hope College will now advance to the championship game, looking to claim the national title.

This Day in History: Washington University Faces Illinois Wesleyan in NCAA Women's Basketball Matchup

 

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (March 18, 2011) — Brittany Hasselbring maneuvered around the top of the key during an NCAA women's basketball game between the Washington University Bears and the Illinois Wesleyan Titans at Shirk Center on Friday.

The matchup featured intense competition as both teams fought for a spot in the next round. Hasselbring played a key role in the Titans’ offensive efforts, looking to create opportunities against Washington University's defense.

Illinois Wesleyan hosted the game at Shirk Center, drawing a strong home crowd in support of the Titans.

This Day in History - March 17, 2018: Sharin of the Green

 

On March 17, 2018, the quaint town of Normal, Illinois, came alive with the spirited revelry of its annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, a cherished tradition that painted the streets with hues of emerald and echoes of jubilation. As the calendar aligned with the feast day of Ireland’s patron saint, the community gathered under a crisp spring sky to celebrate heritage, unity, and the promise of renewal that the season whispers.

The parade, a vibrant procession through the heart of Normal, wove its way along familiar avenues, drawing families, friends, and visitors into a shared tapestry of festivity. Floats adorned with shamrocks and streamers rolled gracefully by, while local bands filled the air with lively tunes that stirred the soul and quickened the pulse. Marchers, clad in green regalia, waved to the onlookers, their smiles as bright as the sun that occasionally peeked through the clouds, casting a golden glow on the scene.

This was more than a mere spectacle; it was a testament to Normal’s enduring spirit—a small town with a big heart, where history and modernity dance in harmony. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade of 2018 stood as a beacon of camaraderie, inviting all to partake in the “Sharin’ of the Green,” as the event is fondly known. Children scampered along the sidewalks, clutching treasures tossed from passing floats, while elders reminisced about parades past, their tales weaving a thread of continuity through generations.

In a world often hurried and divided, the Normal, IL, St. Patrick’s Day Parade on that March day offered a pause—a moment to revel in simplicity, to honor roots both Irish and otherwise, and to embrace the collective joy that binds a community. As the last notes of the pipers faded and the crowds dispersed, the memory of that celebration lingered, a verdant promise of spring and togetherness etched into the town’s story.

American White Pelican Migration - Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge

  

The vast expanse of the sky shimmered with the soft glow of dawn as the great white pelicans set their course northward. Their long, broad wings stretched wide, catching the spring thermals that carried them effortlessly over rivers, fields, and wetlands. With each beat of their powerful wings, they followed an ancient route, one that had guided their ancestors for generations.

As they soared over the Mississippi River, the waters below teemed with fish, a promise of the abundance that lay ahead.

Their destination was Emiquon, a vast floodplain in central Illinois, where nature had reclaimed the land and restored it to its former glory. Once a drained agricultural field, Emiquon had been revived into a wetland haven, rich with life and sustenance for the migrating flocks. It was a sanctuary, a place where they could rest, feed, and gather strength for the journeys still to come.

As they descended, the pelicans were met with the scent of fresh water and the symphony of life that thrived in the marshes. Swirling eddies of fish glimmered beneath the surface, while reeds swayed in the gentle breeze. Other birds—egrets, herons, and ducks—greeted their arrival, sharing in the wealth of the wetland.

They would spend weeks here, regaining their strength before continuing farther north to their breeding grounds in the upper Midwest and Canada.

For now, Emiquon was home—a place where the rhythm of migration paused, where the wild heart of the wetlands pulsed strong, and where the white pelicans found peace under the wide, open sky.

Image from March 20, 2019.

Sioux Falls Storm visits Bloomington Extreme

  This Day in History:

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (March 14, 2009) — Sioux Falls Storm quarterback Mitch Tanney delivered a pass under pressure Saturday night as the Bloomington Extreme defense closed in at U.S. Cellular Coliseum.

Tanney, facing an unblocked rush from defensive lineman Leif Murphy, managed to get the throw off before being hit. The Storm traveled to Bloomington for the matchup against the Extreme in the indoor football showdown.

Both teams looked to gain early momentum in the season as they battled in front of a lively crowd in downtown Bloomington.

Today in History: Toilet Paper Shortage Sparks Panic Buying Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

 Today in History"

NEW YORK (MAR 13, 2020) — As the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the United States in March 2020, an unexpected crisis unfolded in grocery stores and supermarkets nationwide: a severe shortage of toilet paper. Panic buying and supply chain disruptions left shelves empty, prompting concern, confusion, and at times, conflict among shoppers.

The shortage, fueled by fears of prolonged lockdowns and supply interruptions, saw consumers rushing to stockpile essential goods. Retailers struggled to keep up with demand as manufacturers worked around the clock to replenish inventory.

Images and videos of customers hoarding toilet paper, sometimes filling multiple carts, quickly went viral on social media. Reports of altercations in store aisles emerged, with some shoppers resorting to reselling toilet paper at marked-up prices online.

Supply chain experts pointed to a combination of panic-driven purchasing and shifts in consumer behavior as key factors. With more people staying home, demand surged while commercial supply chains—geared toward businesses and institutions—failed to adjust quickly.

Toilet paper manufacturers ramped up production, but the industry’s just-in-time inventory model left little room for rapid response. The situation gradually stabilized as retailers implemented purchase limits and supply chains adapted to new consumer patterns.

By late spring, stores began to recover, though some areas continued to experience sporadic shortages. The toilet paper crisis of 2020 became a defining symbol of the early days of the pandemic, highlighting the fragility of supply chains and the power of consumer psychology in times of uncertainty.

Today in History March 12, 2016: Leo Lions Battle Le Roy Panthers for IHSA Class 1A Title

 

PEORIA, Ill. (AP) — The Chicago Leo Lions battled the LeRoy Panthers on Saturday at Carver Arena in the Peoria Civic Center IHSA Class 1A boys basketball championship.

LeRoy, making its first appearance in the championship game, fought valiantly. LeRoy’s impressive run to the title game cements its place among Illinois’ top small-school programs.

Toy Trucks, Lincoln Logs, and Lockdown: How Classic Toys Found New Life During COVID Quarantine

 

When the world slowed to a halt in early 2020, so did childrens routines. Schools shuttered, playgrounds emptied, and screens became a lifeline to education and entertainment. But amid the upheaval, a surprising trend emerged: the revival of classic, hands-on toys like toy trucks, Lincoln Logs, and wooden train sets.

Among the biggest beneficiaries was Lincoln Logs, the nearly 110-year-old construction toy that saw a resurgence as families embraced home-based play.
Toy trucks, particularly the classic die-cast models and sturdy plastic dump trucks, also made a comeback.

For some, the return to old-school play wasn’t just about entertainment—it was a way to cope with the uncertainty of the pandemic.

It was the same for this sports photographer... no games, no sweaty gyms, no photos to edit unless you found something else to photograph! Thank goodness for Lincoln Logs, and old toy trucks!

#bloomingtonnormalsportsphotos #bloomingtonnormalsportsphotographer #bestlookmagazine #alanlookphotography #cisportsphotos #centralillinoissportsphotos @canonusa

Ridgeview Triumphs Over Annawan in IHSA Super Sectional Showdown

  NORMAL, Ill. (AP) — The Ridgeview Mustangs secured a hard-fought victory over the Annawan Braves in the IHSA Class 1A Super Sectional boys basketball game on March 6, 2018, at Redbird Arena, punching their ticket to the state finals.

Ridgeview overcame a determined Annawan squad with a strong second-half performance, pulling away late to earn a win. The Mustangs’ disciplined defense and clutch shooting proved decisive in the battle for a spot in the state semifinals.

Annawan fought valiantly throughout the contest, however, Ridgeview’s defensive pressure forced several crucial turnovers late in the game, limiting Annawan’s chances to mount a comeback.

March 5, 2005 - Normal Community Captures Regional Title with Win Over Rival West

  On this day in History...

NORMAL, Ill. (March 5, 2005) — The Normal Community Ironmen secured the boys' basketball regional championship Saturday night, defeating cross-town rival Normal Community West in a hard-fought matchup.

The Ironmen relied on a balanced scoring attack and strong defense to hold off the Wildcats in front of a packed gymnasium at Normal Community High School.

West kept the game close throughout. The Wildcats cut the deficit to three with under two minutes to play, but Normal Community responded with key free throws down the stretch to put the game out of reach.

https://alanlookphotography.zenfoliosite.com

On this Day - March 4, 2005 Normal Iron defeat Bloomington Raiders for Regional IHSA Class AA boys basketball title.

  March 4, 2005 – Normal, Ill.

Normal Community’s boys basketball team secured a hard-fought victory over Bloomington on Friday night, defeating the Purple Raiders in an IHSA Class AA Regional matchup at Normal Community West High School.

The Ironmen, led by a strong defensive performance and clutch shooting, outlasted Bloomington in a tightly contested game that saw multiple lead changes. Normal Community’s fast-paced offense and aggressive rebounding helped them pull away in the final minutes to clinch the win.

With the win, Normal Community advances to the next round of the IHSA Class AA tournament. Bloomington’s season comes to an end, but the Purple Raiders showcased resilience and determination throughout the year.

https://alanlookphotography.zenfoliosite.com

This Day in History - Champaign Central tops Normal West in Regional Opener

  On this day in history:

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (March 3, 2004) — The Champaign Central Maroons pulled away late to defeat the Normal West Wildcats 70-61 in an IHSA Class AA regional game Wednesday night at Bloomington High School.
#bloomingtonnormalsportsphotos #bloomingtonnormalsportsphotographer #Mcleancountysportsphotos #centralillinoissportsphotos @alanlookphotography

IHSA State Girls Wrestling Championship

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (March 1, 2025) — The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) concluded its inaugural State Girls Wrestling Finals on March 1 at Grossinger Motors Arena, marking a significant milestone in the state's athletic history.

Over the two-day event, female wrestlers from across Illinois competed in various weight classes, showcasing exceptional skill and determination. The tournament featured both individual and team championships, highlighting the depth of talent in girls' wrestling.

In the individual finals, Katelyn Bell of Montini Catholic High School secured the championship in the 100-pound weight class with a decisive 21-2 technical fall over her opponent.
FLOWRESTLING.ORG

The team competition saw Schaumburg High School clinch the state title, demonstrating dominance throughout the tournament. Their performance underscored the growing competitiveness of girls' wrestling programs statewide.

The success of this inaugural event has fueled discussions about expanding girls' wrestling opportunities in Illinois, with many advocating for its inclusion in future IHSA state series.
IHSA.ORG

For complete results and match videos, visit the IHSA's official website and FloWrestling's coverage of the event.

https://alanlookphotography.zenfoliosite.com @ihsa_il

Tri-Valley upends Fieldcrest for last regular season home game.

  Tri-Valley hosted Fieldcrest in the last home regular season varsity boys basketball last night. The Vikings were victorious over the Knights by 10 points. It's off to the state Regionals for both teams

Check out the photos at Alan Look Photography

U-High Pioneers boys basketball complete home season with win over Sacred Heart Griffin Cyclones

   Spent Senior Night at University High School Pioneers to see the boys basketball team in a thriller against the Cyclones of Sacred Heart Griffin.  The Pioneers got off to a real slow start but after picking up the pace, the game was pretty tight with a finish of a difference of 2 points with the walk off smiles going to the Pioneers.

Post Season is up next!

Find all the Bloomington Normal Sports Photos and Central Illinois Sports Photos at Alan Look Photography, the Best Look in sports action photography !

Potters Rest Atop Ironmen

 The Morton Potters and the Normal Ironmen met up on Saturday January 4th in the east gym of Normal Community High School. Spectators fill little more than half the stands. The Potters hit first and last with the score a 4 or 5 point difference for much of the contest. The Potters pulled away in the final 2 minutes to rest on top of the Ironmen by 10 points at the final buzzer. #Mortonpotters #NCHSAthletics #AlanLookPhotography #Bloomington-NormalSportsPhotos

https://alanlookphotography.zenfoliosite.com/2024-2025-high-school-sports/2024-2025-normal-community-ironmen?ct=2

2024 State Farm Holiday Classic Coed Basketball Tournament Champs!

 The State Farm Holiday Classic Coed Basketball Tournament ended its four day run in Bloomington - Normal at the Shirk Center on Monday December 30th.  Dozens of games played at 4 venues gives plenty of time for photo ops for Best Look Magazine for those coveted Bloomington - Normal Sports Photos.  Our coverage was a little limited this year as we only were able to cover a couple of days of The Classic.  Teams we were privileged to cover were the Bloomington Central Catholic Saints boys and girls teams, El Paso - Gridley Titans boys, University High Pioneer boys, Tri-Valley Viking boys, North Lawndale Chicago Prep boys, St. Joe - Ogden boys, Bishop McNamara Irish girls, Bradley Bourbonnais boys, and Normal Community Ironmen boys.

Winners for this years tournament were:

Small School girls - Camp Pt. Central/Augusta Southeastern over Bloomington Central Catholic Saints 62-35

Small School boys - Pectonica over St. Joe - Ogden 67-54

Large School girls - Washington over Normal Community 61-43

Large School boys - Peoria over Romeoville 61-44

Cheers to The Classic Committee and all the volunteers that make this annual event a reality!

Find our world class images here:  https://alanlookphotography.zenfoliosite.com/2024-state-farm-holiday-classic-coed-basketball-tournament?ct=2