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Vacation Home Buyers Stay Close to Home
You hear it time and time again...location, location, location and it is the number one thing we hear when we give tours. People love the fact that they can get to Heritage Harbor in less than 90 minutes. The shorter drive allows them more flexibility with their schedules at home and it allows them to use their vacation homes more often. This seems to be one of the main reasons Heritage Harbor is gaining momentum and experiencing continued progress at the resort.
Since introducing the Cottages at Heron's Landing, earlier this year, 5 have been sold and two cottages are available for viewing and purchasing (introductory prices start as low as $139,900)...the second Row Cottage building has been completed...the on-site restaurant and pool continue to flourish...and the 110-boat slips are bustling with constant activity...
Plans have started for the end of the year to build the next 4-unit Heritage Series condo building, the next townhome building and more single family cottage homes are under construction with more on the way. All of this coupled with the beauty and vibrancy of Starved Rock and the Illinois River make a great package for those seeking a vacation home.
Click here to read more about what the experts are saying of about why Vacation Home Buyers are staying close to home.
Source: Getting Away-But Not too Far The Wall Street Journal, May 2012
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Greetings from the Harbor!
I am often asked what made me come to Ottawa and more often I am asked in my role as Harbor master my thoughts about 'The River.' I thought I would use this newsletter to explain a few of my thoughts on the topic "The River:"
Since I was small boy, I have loved boats and boating. My grandfather's motor is restored and sits in my office - a reminder of great times on a lake in northern Michigan. Nearly all of my time spent boating has been on a clear, cool lake in Michigan, Indiana, Canada or Tennessee. The time spent on these lakes fishing, learning to ski and scuba diving are some my fondest memories.
In 2008, my family and I were given the opportunity to move to Ottawa and become part of the history and charm of Starved Rock Country area. I was certain I would miss the lake boating I was used to in Michigan.
Flash forward nearly 4 years...I haven't been on a lake since my Michigan departure and have come to realize the true differences and the importance of The River.
In the past 4 years, I have met boaters from all parts of the US, Canada and Europe, including two portly gentlemen in Speedos from Germany :-) With the exception of Lake Michigan the lakes I mentioned above will only allow a few minutes of boating until you see the same scene again. The same docks and cottages, the same points of interest - only to go around again and again, with the shorelines never really changing but only the increasing amount of traffic that prohibits good skiing and tubing, an activity my family enjoys doing. But boredom doesn't come easy on The River, the terrain continuously changes, the vegetation and wildlife migrate with the seasons, new development continues and there are always little inlets and stops along the way to discover.
I am a little spoiled, as our home is situated on the Illinois south bluff area that overlooks the confluence of the Fox and Illinois Rivers. I have been amazed at the amount of traffic (both pleasure and commercial) and the importance of the river system to economy, watershed and surrounding natural resources. Plus I have a new found appreciation for the commerce generated on the river through barge traffic, ship yards, granary and more.
From a historical view, the local river system has transported warships, submarines, presidents, famous writers and has been the place where many battles have been fought. The river is so rich in a history that continues to be made-every day, every year. Commerce continues as consumer goods, crops and fuel are loaded and shipped all over the world. As the saying goes 'you just keep flowing and you never know what may be around the next bend.'
And to answer your question, No, the Rivers aren't as clear as lakes because they have a sand and silt base versus a rock base. But, yet the rivers are cleaner than they used to be. Laws have been passed to keep harmful chemicals out of the river system and organizations now exist to protect the integrity of the river and its wildlife. The River does rise and fall and based on the fluctuation the river keeps things circulating. The boating and skiing is GREAT and we are known to catch the "Big Ones" of walleye, white bass, blue gill, large and small mouth bass, catfish and croppies to name a few. Parts of the river system support the vast waterfowl population on its yearly migration and provide sportsmen bounty year after year. If you have never witnessed the migratory white pelicans all huddled together on their journey you are truly missing a beautiful sight.
Lastly, I have found my boating season to be much longer on the River; some of our best photos are from the water looking back at the fall foliage.
In closing, Yes, I will always miss the lakes and look forward to future visits. However my life on The River is exciting, fun and has yet to disappoint or limit my curiosity. The rivers are the arteries to our homes and serve as life support to all that we have. You cannot get to Europe from a small lake in Michigan, and you cannot send world class sand to Mobile bay from a lake in Canada. On The River you can boat, and ski, fish and hunt and travel many miles without seeing the same scenery. The River is a wonderful thing.
Illinois uses the tag line; "Mile after Magnificent Mile", and I say The River is "Mile after Adventurous Mile!" See you soon at the Harbor!
Mark Pentecost
Harbor Master |
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I scream, you scream, we all scream for...BREAKFAST?!
Back by requests, Tracy's Boat House will be serving breakfast Weekends and Holidays from 8:30am-10:30am. To find out about breakfast availability during a weekend near you, call Tracy's at (815) 434-0030.
Tracy's Boat House Breakfast Menu.
Miss out on breakfast???
No worries! For a quick, yet filling bite to eat check out Tracy's 3 Buck Hut located on your way to the Welcome Center. Tracy's 3 Buck Hut is serving most Grill items and Can beverages for $3 or less on weekends, weather permitting, during lunch hours. Yet another unique, resort amenity offered to all who visit Heritage Harbor Ottawa.
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As part of the Adventure Lifestyle available at Heritage Harbor Ottawa we strive to connect our homeowners, boaters, and guests with some unique experiences that are exclusive to our area here in "Starved Rock Country".
RIVERFEST!
With so many events, activities and attractions buzzing in Starved Rock Country, here is yet another thrilling reason to come for a weekend and stay for a lifetime!
Ottawa's Annual Riverfest is LaSalle County's largest festival that celebrates summer with a bang! Riverfest has something for every member of the family. From music to its carnival midway, to the Old Town's art and craft shows, you'll enjoy the activities offered during the summer week celebration. Kid's activities, book and sidewalk sales, car show and Sunday's Grand Finale parade are just some of the many activities. New this year is "Taste of Ottawa" - Chef Block on the Jordan Block featuring the best Ottawa restaurants and their best dishes. In attendance this year is our very own Tracy's Boat House and Row House from 6pm-9pm! (Tracy's will also be offering a free shuttle from the Jordan Block to Tracy's Boat House at Heritage Harbor Marina) To find out more about this exciting event in Downtown Ottawa going on August 2nd-5th visit www.OttawaRiverfest.org.
For more information about area activities and services check out the Heritage Harbor Ottawa blog.
"Life is an Adventure...Live it Here!"
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The Basics of Anchoring
Part 2: Techniques
This is the 2nd part of the basics of anchoring. Last newsletter I wrote about the basic types of anchors and how to calculate anchor rode length. This newsletter I will concentrate more on actual anchoring techniques.
(Click here to see Part 1: Anchors & Rode)
- First, select an area that offers maximum shelter from wind, current, boat traffic etc. Pick a spot with swinging room in all directions. Should the wind change, your boat will swing bow to the wind or current, whichever is stronger. Determine depth and bottom conditions and calculate the amount of rode you will put out. If other boats are anchored in the area you select, ask the boat adjacent to the spot you select what scope they have out so that you can anchor in such a manner that you will not bump into the neighboring vessel.
- Anchor with the same method used by nearby boats. If they are anchored bow and stern, you should too. If they are anchored with a single anchor from the bow, do not anchor bow and stern. Never anchor from the stern alone, this could cause the boat to swamp or capsize. Stop your boat and lower your anchor until it lies on the bottom. This should be done up-wind or up-current from the spot you have selected. Slowly start to motor back, letting out the anchor rode. Backing down slowly will assure that the chain will not foul the anchor and prevent it from digging into the bottom.
- When all the anchor line has been let out, back down on the anchor with engine in idle reverse to help set the anchor. (Be careful not to get the anchor line caught in your prop.) While reversing on a set anchor, keep a hand on the anchor line. A dragging anchor will telegraph itself as it bumps along the bottom. An anchor that is set will not shake the line.
- When the anchor is firmly set, look around for reference points in relation to the boat. You can sight over your compass to get the bearing of two different fixed points (house, rock, tower, etc.) Over the next hour or so, make sure those reference points are in the same place. If not you're probably dragging anchor. Begin anchor watch. Everyone should check occasionally to make sure you're not drifting.
- Retrieve the anchor by pulling or powering forward slowly until the anchor rode hangs vertically at the bow. Cleat the line as the boat moves slowly past the vertical. This will use the weight of the boat to free the anchor and protect you from being dragged over the bow.
- Once free, raise the anchor to the waterline.
Dennis A. Cruise Jr
Service Manager |
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May - Waterfall & Canyon Tour (Every Monday & Saturday in May) | 11:00am
Experience the fun of outdoor adventure at Starved Rock State Park with a guided walk to 3 spectacular waterfalls and canyons. We will hike to French and St. Louis Canyons as well as Ottawa Canyon. The tour will also include your selection from our Special Lunch Menu and a relaxing, historic trolly ride. This is a walking tour and is not recommended for individuals with limited mobility. Offered Mondays & Saturdays in April & May. Ticket price: $32 for adults, $27 for children (10 and under). For more information call (815) 220-7386.
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May 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st (Friday's in May) - Rock on the Block | Jordon Block Park, Ottawa, IL | 6:00pm-10:00pm
Rock on the Block. All age's entertainment, free to the public; sponsored by Ottawa Downtown Merchants and Vagrant Life. For more information call (815) 434-2737.
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Canal Boat & Trolley Tour | Every Friday, May-October | 11:00am-3:00pm
Start off with a hot lunch in the historic Main Dining Room of Starved Rock Lodge. Then, board one of the Starved Rock Trolleys for a ride to the Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center. After that, enjoy a relaxing ride to LaSalle and step back in time aboard "The Volunteer" where period-dress interpreters will take you on a 1-hour, mule-pulled canal boat ride. Finish your tour with a final stop at the Lock 16 Visitor Center. Reservations are required for this tour. Tickets are $39 per person. Please call (815) 220-7386.
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May 3rd - 4th - Midwest Morel Fest | Washington Square Park | Friday @ 4:00pm, Saturday @ 7:00am
LEARN, HUNT, AUCTION . . . for Morel Mushrooms during Ottawa's Midwest Morel Fest! This unique festival offers something for everyone from the mushroom enthusiast to the curious observer! See the following schedule: All events take place at Washington Square Park. *Friday, May 3rd - "LEARN AND GUIDED HUNT SEMINAR" by Morel University - limit of 120 Hunters - Begins at 4:00pm. *Saturday, May 4th - "CHAMPIONSHIP HUNT" - limit of 440 Hunters - sign-in begins at 7:00am Saturday morning with a deadline of 8:45am. All contestants will be bused to the hunt site. NO OTHER VEHICLES WILL BE ALLOWED TO FOLLOW THE OFFICIAL HUNT VEHICLES. *1:00pm "PUBLIC MOREL AUCTION". *2:30pm - "MOREL AWARDS CEREMONY". *Other Events - MOREL MUSHROOM MUSEUM, FARMERS MARKET, HAND AND HOME MADE MARKET, REDDICK MANSION TOURS, OTTAWA SCOUTING MUSEUM, HISTORIC WASHINGTON PARK, SHOPPING AND DINING, MAIN STREET ANTIQUES.
Cost for seminar and hunt each: 13 yrs and over $30.00, 12 yrs and under $15.00, Walk-Ins add $5.00. No cancellations. No refunds. REGISTRATION DEADLINE MAY 1. Walk-Ins permitted if space allows. Call the Ottawa Visitors Center to make your reservations today at (815) 434-2737! $30 per person/$15 per child.
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May 10th - Dueling Pianos at Starved Rock | Great Hall | 6:00pm-9:00pm
Dueling Pianos in the Great Hall on Friday, May 10th, 2013. Appetizers will be served from 6:00-7:00pm followed by the performance from 7:00 to 9:00pm. This is an experience like no other! Don't miss this wildly entertaining music and comedy dueling piano show. Appetizer Bar begins at 6:00pm and the show starts at 7:00pm. We will have a cash bar that will be open throughout the evening. Out interactive musical comedy experience will have you singing, shouting, dancing and laughing so hard you'll be doubled over. Event will be held in Great Hall and Starved Rock Room. Tickets are $35 per person. Advanced reservations a must. Limited availability. For reservations place call (815) 220-7386.
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May 11th - 10th Annual White Bass for Life Fishing Tournament | Shoreline Boat Club | 7:00am-12:00pm
About the tourney: Two Man Teams. $50.00 prepay or $60.00 at the door. Cash payout for 1st thru 6th places. Cash prizes for largest White Bass and junk fish. use public launch and come to Shoreline Boat Club Ottawa, IL. Sign in starts at 6AM. Live music by Crash and Pig Roast after the tournament $50.00 pre-pay, $60.00 at the door.
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May 11th - May Melodies ~ An Afternoon Tea | The Reddick Mansion | 1:00pm-3:00pm
The Reddick Mansion Association will be hosting an afternoon tea, "May Melodies", on Saturday, May 11th from 1pm-3pm. The event will begin with tea at individually decorated tea tables with themes that include pansies, desert roses, vines of ivy, and summer beaches. After enjoying the delicious selection of teas, sweets and savories on the lower level of the Mansion, guests will move to the lovely West Parlors where Sarah Arter, violinist, will perform. The menu will include two different kinds of tea, berry scones and Devonshire cream, cranberry-pecan tarts, lemon bon bons, and fresh fruit. Cucumber dill sandwiches, chicken salad, and black olive tea sandwiches will also be served. The cost is $12.00 for adults and $8.00 for children. Seating is limited and reservations are required. Please call the Reddick Mansion (815-433-6100) for more information.
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May 12th - Mother's Day/Tulip Festival at the Weber House and Garden | Weber House and Garden | 10:00am-5:00pm
Visit this storybook Tudor cottage during the Tulip Festival! Featuring hundreds of tulips in an English style garden of meandering paths. Punch and cookies served in Luther Hall. For more information call (815) 672-8327.
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May 12th - Mother's Day at Tracy's BoatHouse | HHO Marina
Make your Mom and all the ladies in your life feel special by treating them to our Mother's Day Menu in a special setting. Call (815) 434-0030 for reservations.
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May 18th - Botanical Arts Market | Jordan Block | 8:00am-2:00pm
With plenty of April showers, enjoy the May flowers at the Jordan Block! Any vendor/nursery interested in selling plants or botanical art related items may apply. $25 for 10' X 10' space. For more information call (815) 434-2737.
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May 19th - Ottawa Firefighters Local 523 20th Annual Firefighters Memorial & Open House | Ottawa Fire Department | 10:00am
In Illinois the third Sunday in May is designated Firefighter Memorial Day. This gives us an opportunity to honor our fallen firefighters who have served our citizens, some who have given the ultimate sacrifice. It gives us an opportunity to display our equipment and rich history of the Ottawa Fire Department. Please join us in celebrating this event. For more information please contact Chris Saar (815) 482-7839 or Jeff Clift (815) 992-7157.
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May 25th - Blessing of the Boats & Marina | HHO Marina | 11:00am
At 11:00am we will kick-off with the singing of the National Anthem. Then two local priests and pastors will bless the HHO Marina and walk the docks to bless our boats and guests to ensure a safe boating season. The event will conclude with carnations and a wreath being displayed in the marina. There will be food and drink specials throughout the day at Tracy's Boat House. For more information call (815) 433-5000.
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May 26th - Amazing Race Starved Rock Lodge Style | Starved Rock Lodge | 11:30am-3:30pm
Join us for Starved Rock Lodge's version of the Amazing Race on these select Sundays from May through September: May 26th, June 2nd & 23rd, July 7th &21st, August 4th & 25th, and September 1st & 15th. Spend an exciting day solving devious clues each step of the way and getting to know the Starved Rock Lodge area a little more. Try to be the first to uncover the Legend of Starved Rock. use your wits, energy and sense of adventure as you race against time and your fellow racers. Enjoy a post-race awards ceremony at the finish line. The Amazing Race is fantastic for families, but children under the age of 8 and guests with limited mobility may find this event too strenuous. Teams are of 2 or more. Check in for the race will be at 11:15am in the Starved Rock Lodge Lobby. Race start time is 11:30am. $50 per couple. For more information or to make a reservation (815) 220-7386.
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June 1st - 5K Foam Fest
Hot new craze in the racing circuit. Imagine all the fun of the mud run combined with foam and water obstacle for an experience that is a lot like running through a giant car wash! For more information contact Ariel at (801) 798-5451.
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Every Saturday JUNE - SEPTEMER Land & Water Cruise | Starved Rock State Park | 9:30am-1:00pm
Enjoy our most popular tour and see Starved Rock from the water! You can really see how big the ROCK is when you see it from this perspective. Plus, you'll see the wildlife living on Plum Island (egrets, cranes, migratory birds such as pelicans and more). Tour includes a hot lunch in our rustic Dining Room, a historic trolley ride and a leisurely 50-minute Illinois River cruise on the Belle of the Rock, an authentic paddlewheel boat. There is minimal walking involved on this tour. Tickets are $40.00 per person. Reservations are necessary. Please call (815) 220-7386.
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June 2nd, July 21st, August 25th, September 1st & 22nd - Music & Wine Under the Pines| Fox Ridge | 3:00pm-4:00pm
If the soft sound of the wind through the towering pines isn't enough for you on a Sunday afternoon, head to Fox Ridge at Starved Rock Lodge for outdoor concerts and a chance to sample and purchase Starved Rock wines. Sunday concerts at Fox Ridge are great for all ages and audience members are encouraged to bring a snack along from our Café to enjoy during the performance or purchase a snack at the Fox's Den right at Fox Ridge. An afternoon of music awaits! Admission: Voluntary Donation. Click here for more information.
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June 7th-9th - Ottawa's Two Rivers Wine and Jazz Fest | Downtown Ottawa | Friday @ 5:00pm-10:00pm, Saturday @ Noon-10:00pm, & Sunday @10:00am-5:00pm
Wine-Food-Jazz! Celebrating Illinois WINE paired with exceptional FOOD and smooth sounds of JAZZ! Please check out our Garden and Botanical Arts Vendors, Antiques along with local specialty stores in the Old Towne District. Buy your tickets at www.ottawa2riverswinefest.com. Or call 1-888-OTTAWA-4.
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June 7th-10th - 12th Annual Heritage Tractor Adventure
Join 200 vintage tractors led by Max Armstrong as they travel from Streator to different communities in the Heritage Corridor for food, entertainment and camaraderie. Tractors will enjoy Ottawa's 2River Wine and Jazz Fest on Friday evening. Other stops include Spirit Family Farm, Downtown Pontiac and Toluca. Orion Samuelson, world-renowned agriculture reporter will be signing his new book, "You Can't Dream Big Enough" at Streator's City Park on Saturday evening. Everyone is welcome to all events and tractors over 30 year's old are asked to have their drivers call 866-6-Tractor or email maryde@hccvbil.com for information on how to participate.
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June 14th - 15th Annual Cruise Night | Downtown Ottawa | 6:00pm-10:00pm
Come to Ottawa and check out the antique and custom cars during the city's 15th Annual Cruise Night! Over 100 different models of cars will line the streets! It's every car buff's dream! LaSalle Street will be closed down for this event. Hosted by The LaSalle County Cruisers and the City of Ottawa. For more information call (815) 228-4083.
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June 16th - Drum Circle | Fox Ridge | 3:00pm-4:00pm
Join us on Sunday June 16, 2013 under the Pines at Fox Ridge for a Drum Circle with Dave Peterson. This moving event begins at 3pm. If you've never been to a drum circle, just come and watch. Before you know it, you'll want to join in the fun. You'll enjoy the musical talent of local musician Dave Peterson and friends as they lead an outdoor drum circle surrounded by the beauty of nature at Starved Rock! You can listen to the amazing sounds or even sit down to drum along with the group. The drum circle may last longer than one hour. Call (815) 220-7386 if you have questions. Admission: Voluntary Donation.
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June 23rd - Falconry Program | Fox Ridge | 3:00pm-4:00pm
Join Falconry expert, Rich Escutia on June 23 at 3pm at Fox Ridge (our outdoor venue at Starved Rock Lodge) as he shares his expertise in falconry. Learn about the types of birds he has studied and meet some of his feathered friends during your visit. This is a free event. Donations are welcome. For more information call 815-220-7386.
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© 2012 Heritage Harbor LLC. All Rights Reserved.
1988 N. 2753rd Road | Ottawa | IL 61350 | hho@heritageharborottawa.com
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Quest Express reviewed on 190 North 
