I have been visiting Giant City State Park for many years but in the last year almost every day. The trees and plants are plentious and lovely. I have identified almost 200 with an app on my iPhone. There is an abundance of hiking trails that I enjoyed more in my younger years but I relish walking on the plethora of green space that is relatively flat. Of late Jonathon Aaron and MJ, at times, have enjoyed a drink at their lovely little Bar in the Lodge. They make a mean Old Fashioned. The Lodge was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression including MJ’s uncle Merle and his twin brother…and her father…Berl. Their photo along with many others can be found outside the entrance of the Dining Hall.

In years gone by I served on the Employee Advisory Committee of the State Universities Civil Service System Merit Board. We met at all of the Universities around our State and when we met in Southern Illinois we met at Giant City Lodge. My colleagues simply loved Giant City and the Lodge!

Jonathon and I were privileged to talk with Mr. Richard Kelly who along with his son Mike has operated the Lodge since March 1, 1981. Mr. Kelley spoke of his time at the Lodge and how it has grown. He described with the exuberance of an 18-year-old the manner of the good fortune that he has had and his great life. I told him at one point that he reminded me of the old Jimmy Stewart Movie, It’s A Wonderful Life…he agreed with my assessment. After our conversation, I left knowing that I had spoken to a great man with a servant’s heart.

‘Big’ Jim Thompson who was Governor of Illinois from 1977 – 1991. Governor Thompson was Illinois longest-serving Governor. Governor Thompson loved coming to Southern Illinois and he admired the Lodge. Politicians of both political parties photos can be seen aligning the walls of the Lodge. Good food and good drinks at a reasonable price while you are nestled in the magnificent State Park… cause you to forget all of your worries and your cares for a while.