Best Look Magazine

  The Soybean Harvest Begins: From Heartland Fields to Global Tables As September settles over the Midwest, the golden wave of soybean fields signals the start of harvest season. In Illinois, where warm soils and early canopy development gave crops a strong start, farmers are now racing against cooler nights and dry conditions to bring in a yield that’s slightly ahead of schedule. Despite trade tensions and shifting global demand, soybeans remain one of the most versatile crops on Earth. From food to fuel, their impact stretches far beyond the field. Global Uses of Soybeans Today •  Food Products: Soybeans are the backbone of tofu, soy milk, tempeh, and countless plant-based proteins. They’re a staple in vegan and vegetarian diets worldwide. •  Animal Feed: Soymeal is a high-protein feed for poultry, swine, and cattle, supporting livestock industries across continents. •  Biofuels: Soybean oil is increasingly used in biodiesel production, especially as coun...

  Ca’Lil Valentine’s Precision Running Fuels Illini’s 38-0 Statement Win In a game where the Illini offense roared and the defense slammed the door shut, it was Ca’Lil Valentine’s quiet consistency that gave Illinois its heartbeat. On September 13, 2025, under the lights at Gies Memorial Stadium, Illinois blanked Western Michigan 38-0 in a performance that showcased depth, discipline, and dominance. While headlines may spotlight quarterback Luke Altmyer’s three-touchdown showcase and Kad en Feagin’s bruising 103-yard ground game, Valentine’s contribution was the kind that coaches dream of: clean, efficient, and relentless. Valentine carried the ball 10 times for 63 yards—without a single yard lost. That stat alone speaks volumes. In a sport where negative plays can derail momentum, Valentine’s ability to move the chains with surgical precision kept the Illini offense on schedule and the Broncos defense on its heels. His runs weren’t flashy, but they were foundational. Each carry ch...

  In a pond where the lilies repose, Lives a frog with a dignified nose. Though he can’t croak or sing, He’s the prince of the spring— In his duckweed tuxedo, he glows.

Timeless Sentinels of Emiquon: Painted & Softshell Turtles Basking on sun-warmed logs in the wetlands of Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge, a quiet congregation of painted turtles and a solitary softshell turtle share space with a lone Great Egret—each species a thread in the rich ecological tapestry of central Illinois. Painted turtles (Chrysemys picta), with their vivid red and yellow markings, are among the most resilient reptiles in North America. Some individuals live up to 40 years, with rare cases reaching 50+. Their longevity is matched by their ecological importance: they help regulate aquatic vegetation, recycle nutrients, and serve as prey for raccoons, herons, and larger fish. These semi-aquatic reptiles brumate through harsh winters, surviving months underwater with astonishing metabolic suppression. Softshell turtles (likely Apalone spinifera in this region) are more elusive. Their leathery shells and snorkel-like snouts make them agile hunters of insects, crustaceans,...

  Chili Bowl Showdown: Normal Ironmen Triumph Over Normal West Wildcats The air was electric with anticipation as the Normal Ironmen and Normal West Wildcats took to the field for the annual Chili Bowl, a fierce football rivalry that captivates the town of Normal, Illinois. This year's clash, held at Normal Community West High School, was a hard-fought battle that saw the Ironmen emerge victorious with a final score of 35-22. A Tale of Two Halves The game was a compelling contest of contrasting styles and momentum swings. The Ironmen established an early lead, but the Wildcats battled back, narrowing the score to a slim margin at halftime. The second half was a different story, as the Ironmen's potent offensive attack and strong defensive play kept the Wildcats' comeback efforts in check. The Ironmen demonstrated their composure under pressure, making key plays and capitalizing on opportunities to extend their lead in the final quarters. Ironmen Maintain Control Despite the...

  The Chili Bowl is back, and the Normal Ironmen are rolling into Wildcat territory with serious momentum after a commanding 40–6 win over Peoria Richwoods last Friday. With their orange-and-black armor gleaming, they’re ready to clash with silver-and-black rivals Normal West in one of Central Illinois’ fiercest football traditions. Normal Ironmen : With a punishing ground game, the Ironmen dominated in Week 1. Their defense swarmed, their offense clicked, and they’re looking to keep the fire burning. Expect a physical, clock-controlling style that wears down opponents. Normal West Wildcats : The Wildcats bring speed, grit, and a chip on their shoulder. Known for their aggressive play and explosive potential, they’ll aim to stretch the field and strike fast. With home-field advantage and a packed stadium behind them, they’re ready to defend their turf. This isn’t just a game—it’s a community spectacle. The Chili Bowl blends fierce competition with hometown pride, and Friday night’...

  Clark the Bullet Heron of Banner Marsh Every morning, just before the sun spills gold across the cattails, Clark the Great Blue Heron launches from his perch like a feathered missile. Locals swear he’s faster than a bullet, though the marsh frogs—who’ve seen him streak past like a blur of slate and silver—say he’s more like lightning with wings. Clark isn’t just fast; he’s precise. He patrols the waters of Banner Marsh with the vigilance of a seasoned ranger, scanning for ripples, whispers, and the occasional sneaky muskrat trying to steal breakfast. Clark’s speed isn’t just for show. He’s the unofficial guardian of the marsh, keeping peace among the reeds and drama among the dragonflies. One time, he intercepted a rogue snapping turtle mid-charge, swooping in with such velocity that the turtle spun like a frisbee and landed politely back in the mud. The red-winged blackbirds cheered. The turtles grumbled. Clark just adjusted his wings and resumed his patrol, eyes sharp as obs...