January 15

---

Clint Cargile is the manager of public programs at the Gaylord Building Historic Site in Lockport, Illinois. He has worked as a historian, public radio producer, English instructor, freelance writer, book editor, magazine editor, academic conference coordinator, landscaper, dish washer, car washer, dog washer, and veterinary assistant. At WNIJ, Northern Public Radio, he was the creator and host of the podcast Drinkin’ with Lincoln and the series This Week in Illinois History. He is the author of two history books, Five Mile Spur Line: A Railroad History of Sycamore, Illinois (2014) and In Search of a Fair Wind: The Sea Letters of Georgia Townsend Yates, 1891-1892 (2017). He and his wife, Gillian, also publish children’s picture books about Type 1 Diabetes.

Laura Gillogly is a proud lifelong resident of Lockport, who is thrilled to share her story alongside so many other amazing storytellers. With a Master of Fine Arts in Performance, Laura is no stranger to the stage even though it’s been a couple of decades since her last performance! She is excited to bring those skills back to the stage as she connects with the audience in a whole new way. Laura also holds a Master’s degree in School Counseling and has spent the last 11 years helping high school students navigate their journeys. She is passionate about empowering young people to discover their true potential and thrive in all aspects of life. When she’s not working, Laura loves spending time with her husband, J.R., and their beautiful daughter, Norah. 

Story telling is part of Matt’s DNA. One of four boys from his beloved home in southern Virginia everyday was an adventure, or at least a story about one! 
A Naperville stay at home father to four of his own now Matt strives to find new stories in his life. Coaching everything , running Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and PTA. Always connected to his roots Matt passes his life stories on to all who care to listen.

Andy Neill

My formative years were spent discovering life in the neighborhoods of Downers Grove and Arlington Heights.  I studied long and hard at Harper, Northern and Illinois State.

Joliet became my own nest site in 1993.

With the help from mama bird, provided for 3 nestlings, who have since fledged, more or less. 

Main source of nest lining was derived from 30 years teaching biology at good old Joliet Junior College.  Now, semi-retired, when not busy minding my own business, I write poetry, ambulate, and yearn for fresh morning coffee and chatting with old and younger friends.  I volunteer for the local food bank, monitor the status of tall-grass prairies and facilitate better moods with Action For Happiness.  I can be found performing acts of strength and endurance at Planet Fitness too.