Road Stories Blog

By Stephen Manuszak

Named after the decorated war hero Johann de Kalb, who served in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War, the city of DeKalb, Illinois, is home to more than 43,000 residents. The city was founded in 1837 as a small community along the Kishwaukee River, but DeKalb grew significantly after the arrival of the Chicago and North Western Railway in 1853.

Agriculture was a large part of the city’s early economy, and DeKalb’s central location made it easy to ship crops and access larger markets.

By Emily Anderson

The European feel of Orange City, Iowa, was a pleasant surprise for both Baladino and Le Vent Du Nord during their residencies as part of the 2013–2015 season of Arts Midwest World Fest. Orange City is a small community of 6,004 residents located in northwestern Iowa. It is the seat of Sioux County, and in addition to headquartering several major companies, it is home to Northwestern College, a small liberal arts college known for a strong theater department.

By Stephen Manuszak

Several communities in Northwestern Wisconsin have banded together to host the 2013–2015 season of Arts Midwest World Fest, including Rice Lake, Cumberland, Shell Lake, and Barron. These cities feature an array of unique arts and cultural activities as well as a scenic environment and burgeoning industries.

With approximately 8,400 residents, the city of Rice Lake is the largest community in Barron County and serves as a center for commerce, manufacturing, health, and educational services. Located in the beautiful Red Cedar River valley, Rice Lake boasts an abundance of lakes and trails.

By Stephen Manuszak

Even before they arrived, we started learning about Baladino’s music and the country of Israel with the Arts Midwest World Fest study guides. We also interviewed Yonnie Dror to find out what he was looking forward to on his U.S. tour and how we started playing music.