Ah, Illinois. The ideal place to raise a family or to be a farmer. Living in the Midwest is not what one might say, "A dream come true." It isn't bad, but isn't glamorous either. Growing up in the capital city of Springfield, Ill., it has its peaks and pits. There are aspects of it that set itself apart from the other states.
1. We have a local celebrity: The Chili Bowl Mullet Man.
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I promise you, I am as serious as a heart attack. He became famous for his hairstyle—part chili bowl, part mullet. You can find him roaming around Springfield all the time! He was even featured on "Ridiculousness."
2. The Infamous Horseshoe.
Other towns are beginning to produce the Horseshoe, but you must come to Springfield to try the original (I recommend D'arcy's Pint). The bottom is toasted bread, topped with your choice of meat, and then topped with fries and gooey cheese.
3. The Illinois State Fair.
The State Fair is the place to be in August for Vose's corndogs, mini donuts, fried food and of course, the concerts! Or if you simply want to people watch.
4. The Sangamon County Fair.
You can find food and rides here like one would at the State Fair, but it isn't as over the top. Country lovers flock here for concerts where some of country's biggest stars come out!
5. Extremely flat land.
The only lows and highs you'll drive on are potholes in the road or driving on an overpass.
6. Sonic Drive-In.
The local hangout for high school students on warm summer nights. Don't ask why, because I honestly don't know.
7. When people think Springfield is near Chicago.
No, Chicago is not near Springfield and no, Chicago is not the capital. It also doesn't take up 55 percent of the state like most people think it is.
8. Corn. Everywhere.
If you look to your left, you will see corn. If you look to your right, you will see... Corn.
9. Abraham Lincoln.
Springfield is also the home to Abraham Lincoln. Statues of him can be found in downtown and photos can be found in the homes of residents. Springfield is pretty much just one giant Abe Lincoln museum.
10. Bipolar Weather.
In one typical week, you can probably experience more than one season in that seven-day period. But when it's cold, it's blistering cold, and when it's hot, you'll melt.
11. Construction. Always. Everywhere.
Construction is another season added on to the four seasons we already experience.
12. City Tournament.
The biggest weekend for CS8 basketball. When the four CS8 schools come together to play the classic game, and also have their schools give killer dance performances and cheer-offs between student sections.
13. Ten Question Tuesday.
If you're a high school athlete during season, you may be selected to be interviewed by Channel 1450 and your peers will submit questions sure enough to humiliate you.
14. Xochimilco.
The most popular Mexican restaurant you can find in Springfield for good food and prices.
As you can see, Springfield is one of a kind. It can get boring here, but I couldn't imagine myself growing up anywhere else.
