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Black Swallowtail Butterfly on Pink Thistle Bloom: A Late Spring Spectacle in Central Illinois

  As late spring unfolds across central Illinois, the landscape comes alive with bursts of color and movement. Among the rolling fields and prairie patches, pollinators begin their seasonal dance, flitting from bloom to bloom in search of nourishment. One such visitor is the striking  black swallowtail butterfly , its delicate wings outlined in bold black with elegant yellow spots shimmering under the midday sun. Against the backdrop of wildflowers swaying in the prairie breeze, a  pink thistle bloom  stands prominently, its spiky crown offering a rich source of nectar. This resilient native plant, often dismissed as a mere weed, plays a vital role in sustaining local butterfly populations, providing crucial nutrients for species like the black swallowtail. The butterfly hovers momentarily, its movement graceful yet deliberate. It lands softly on the thistle bloom, proboscis unfurling as it draws sweet nectar from the depths of the petals. The contrast of  black...
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Guardians of Our Growth: The Vital Role of Bumble Bees at Finfrock State Habitat Area

Finfrock State Habitat Area, a vibrant mosaic of native wildflowers and grasses, serves as a crucial sanctuary for countless species, including one of our most diligent pollinators: the Common Eastern Bumble Bee ( Bombus impatiens ). These fuzzy, black and yellow ambassadors of the insect world are a common sight from early spring to late fall, buzzing industriously from one blossom to another. Their presence at Finfrock is more than just a pleasant hum in the air; it's a testament to the health of the ecosystem and a vital cog in the machinery of nature that ultimately supports human life. Understanding their role here helps us appreciate the profound connection between these small creatures, their habitats, and our own survival. The Common Eastern Bumble Bee is a particularly effective pollinator, responsible for the reproduction of a wide array of native plants within Finfrock State Habitat Area. Unlike honeybees, bumble bees can fly in cooler temperatures and lower light levels...

Cornell Freeney on the German Wheel

   One thing I miss about college men's basketball games is the halftime entertainment. For over 20 years, every game I covered as a photojournalist featured an exciting act. The Gamma Phi Circus was a yearly highlight at Illinois State University, captivating audiences with their dazzling performances. Sadly, if you only follow the games on social media now, you miss out on those unforgettable moments that brought the crowd together. Pictured - Cornell Freeney on the German Wheel

Back to the Fields for one more season of generational farming

  The sun barely peeked over the horizon in Randolph Township, McLean County, Illinois, casting a golden glow across the frost-kissed fields. This wasn’t just another Wednesday in late March—it was the first day back in the field after a long, quiet winter. The air carried that familiar bite of early spring, a crispness that reminds generational farmers of when they would ride alongside their dad in a rattling old tractor. But today, as he climbed into the cab of his sleek, towering modern Case IH, loaded with GPS precision and climate control, the nostalgia hit differently. The hum of the engine wasn’t the clattering roar of the past; it was a smooth, powerful purr, a sound that bridged decades of memory with the promise of modernity. By noon, the cab’s air conditioning kept the sweat off the brow—a luxury earlier generations never dreamed of. Dust and heat were as much a part of farming as the crops themselves. A paused to sip coffee from a thermos, the same dented one his wife h...

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.