Showcasing LaSalle-Peru: Local Filmmaker’s Work Featured in John McGivern’s Main Streets Episode

When John McGivern’s Main Streets selected the LaSalle-Peru area for an episode, their team reached out to me for video footage—and I was thrilled to collaborate!

The majority of regional video clips featured throughout the episode came from my work, helping to showcase the beauty, history, and features of our community on a larger stage.

A huge thank you to the Main Streets team for bringing this feature to life and for recognizing what makes this area so special. If you haven’t seen the episode yet, it’s a must-watch!

Link to full episode; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NnSqL2TvGgY

Photographer captures views of nature at Illinois' Starved Rock State Park | CBS Chicago Feature

By Noel Brennan

LASALLE COUNTY, Ill. (CBS) -- Fall colors are starting to pop all over the city, but it's worth a trip outside Chicago to get a really spectacular view.

Starved Rock State Park in LaSalle County, about 90 miles southwest of Chicago, has been called a hidden gem for fall colors.

CBS2's Noel Brennan took a hike with a photographer who couldn't get enough of the view.

"It feels very refreshing and real and a time to just disconnect from the craziness of everyday life and just go back and explore," said Matthew Klein.

A photographer looks for variety, and fall is the season to find it.

"I'm going to go 24 to 70 [millimeters], but we'll probably try out 10 to 18 [millimeters], too," he added

Klein is inclined to say Starved Rock State Park is the place to capture it.

"Fall in Midwest, I think Starved Rock is one of the greatest places," he said.

He added, "Everything's always different when you come out here. Nothing's ever the same. You know, we really are in nature with these big sandstone walls and deep canyons and such."

Klein grew up hiking and photographing the trails, and he may never tire of them.

"There's something different about it," he said. "Whether it's the leaf, the season, the temperature, the rain, and it adds to it, and it makes it really cool to capture."

It's easy to forget he's just two hours away from Chicago.

"It's cool to just be tucked back in nature," he said. "You just feel kinda secluded."

The fall colors are just days away from peaking, but even on a cloudy day, they're already popping.

"It's always cool to see. It's always magical," Klein said of Starved Rock.

Variety is the constant that will always bring a photographer back.

"Definitely," Klein said. "There's just so many compositions and things to shoot.

"This is so cool. I really love this place."

2024 Starved Rock & Matthiessen Calendars Available for Purchase

100% of proceeds to benefit the Starved Rock Foundation.

OGLESBY, IL – Starved Rock and Matthiessen Calendars are now available for purchase in-stores today and preorder online, with 100% of the proceeds being donated to the Starved Rock Foundation. The volunteer-run foundation supports the State Park through educational programs, guided hikes, exhibit updates, and more.

The 2024 calendar is the perfect gift for anyone that loves the outdoors or has visited Starved Rock or Matthiessen. Each month features seasonal natural and wildlife moments captured by park hikers. The cover is a collage of park images that were submitted from individuals across the United States.

Online ordering is available at www.starvedrockhikers.com/2024calendar. Online orders placed before Nov. 17 will ship on Nov. 20. Online orders placed between Nov. 17 and Dec. 8 will ship on Dec. 11.

Calendars can also be purchased at the following in-store locations starting today, while supplies last;

• LeRocher Bookstore (Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center) – Oglesby, IL

• Bruce & Ollies at The Bickerman Building – Utica, IL

• Grand Bear Resort Gift Shop – Utica, IL

• Heritage Harbor – Ottawa, IL

• Starved Rock Country Welcome Center – Utica, IL

• Starved Rock Lodge Hotel Check-in Desk – Oglesby, IL

“The calendar brings back memories for locals and reminds them to come out and explore our amazing parks. For folks who have not been to the parks, the calendar serves as an invitation to come and see the amazing beauty that Starved Rock holds in all seasons,” stated Pam Grivetti, President of the Starved Rock Foundation.

The 11x14 wall calendar is professionally printed on one of the finest printing papers made. This Classic Felt press paper has a luxurious feel and smooth finish, producing a high-quality, timeless feel. It is an acid free, archival and Forest Stewardship Council certified paper.

About the Starved Rock Foundation: The Starved Rock Historical and Educational Foundation is the nonprofit organization for Starved Rock State Park, located in North Central Illinois. The Foundation includes a volunteer program which staffs the Visitor Center information desk and leads interpretive hikes, provides educational materials, and conducts special events and presentations. It also raises monies for appropriate materials, equipment, and the improvement of Starved Rock State Park through memberships, donations, and profit from the 100% volunteer run LeRocher Book Store in the Visitor Center. Over $450,000 has been donated over the past 30+ years by an elected board of directors. Learn more about the Foundation, becoming a volunteer, or donating at www.starvedrock.org.

About Matthew Klein Films: Located in North-Central Illinois, Matthew Klein Films is a creative video production agency with over 2 million views online and 500 videos created for clients in public and private sectors. Matthew started the annual calendar fundraiser and with strong support from park visitors, local businesses, regional tourism bureaus, and the Illinois Office of Tourism, the 2022 and 2023 editions raised a combined $6,600 for the parks. Recently, Matthew’s video work has been included in an HBO original documentary produced by Unrealistic Productions - a Mark Wahlberg company, and in a holiday Hallmark movie. Learn more at www.matthewkleinfilms.com/story

2024 Starved Rock & Matthiessen Calendar Photo Submissions Open

Submissions are now open for the 2024 Starved Rock/Matthiessen Calendar. 100% of proceeds to benefit the Starved Rock Foundation.

04.20.23

The Starved Rock & Matthiessen Calendar is coming back for the 2024 calendar year, once again with 100% of proceeds being donated to the Starved Rock Foundation. The Foundation is a 501(c)3 registered nonprofit with a commitment to the Parks.

“I believe these parks offer some of the most pristine, unique, and beautiful areas in the Midwest, so the idea of creating a calendar to benefit the places I love exploring came naturally,” stated Matthew Klein, the creator of the annual calendar fundraiser.

With strong support from park supporters, local businesses, regional tourism bureaus, and the Illinois Office of Tourism, the 2022 and 2023 editions raised a combined $6,600 for the parks.Read the 2022 release here, and the 2023 release here.

“The Foundation is thrilled to be the recipient of the sales from the high-quality Starved Rock Calendar once again. The calendar brings back memories for locals and reminds them to come out and explore our amazing parks. For folks who have not been to the parks, the calendar serves as an invitation to come and see the amazing beauty that Starved Rock holds in all seasons,” stated Pam Grivetti, President of the Starved Rock Foundation.

Contributors that are selected for final inclusion will be recognized digitally and on the 2024 calendar itself. The calendar will be sold at the Starved Rock Foundation LeRocher Gift Shop inside of the Visitor Center at Starved Rock State Park, as well as local businesses and regional outlets.

Contributors are asked to donate an image for the 2024 calendar. Images for consideration must submitted by July 1st, 2023, and images should be nature focused. Images that present historical significance will also be considered. Images must have been taken at Starved Rock or Matthiessen State Park. Images can be submitted at this link.

About the Starved Rock Foundation: The Starved Rock Historical and Educational Foundation is the nonprofit organization for Starved Rock State Park, located in North Central Illinois. The Foundation includes a volunteer program which staffs the Visitor Center information desk and leads interpretive hikes, provides educational materials, and conducts special events and presentations. It also raises monies for appropriate materials, equipment, and the improvement of Starved Rock State Park through memberships, donations, and profit from the 100% volunteer run LeRocher Book Store in the Visitor Center. Over $400,000 has been donated over the past 30+ years by an elected board of directors. Learn more about the Foundation, becoming a volunteer, or donating at www.starvedrock.org.

In addition, the Foundation is actively seeking donations for their $33K audio/visual room project. Individuals or businesses looking to contribute to the audio/visual room should contact Foundation President Pam Grivetti by email at pjgrivetti@comcast.net. Donations are also being accepted at online at https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/starvedrockIL.

About Matthew Klein Films: Located in North-Central Illinois, Matthew Klein Films is a creative video production agency with over 2 million views online and 500 videos created for clients in public and private sectors. Recently, Matthew’s video work has been included in an HBO original documentary produced by Unrealistic Productions - a Mark Wahlberg company, and in a holiday Hallmark movie. Matthew started his company at the age of 17 and frequently visits Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks. Learn more at www.matthewkleinfilms.com/story

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A group of photographers and local businesses presented a check for the 2023 calendar to the Starved Rock Historical and Educational Foundation President, Pam Grivetti, on the 8th of January 2023. Pictured from left to right: Brian Gift, Paula Guttilla, Robbin Keenan, Pam Grivetti, Matthew Klein, Kyle Petersen, and Téa Lamboley

Matthew Klein Announces Photo Hike at Starved Rock State Park

Free photo class and event in collaboration with Starved Rock Foundation  

A long exposure of Kaskaskia Canyon, Starved Rock State Park.

OGLESBY, Ill – April 7, 2023 – Join Matthew Klein at Starved Rock State Park for a free photo class and hike at 9am on Sunday, May 7th, 2023 at the Starved Rock Visitor Center. 

Starved Rock Area Photographer and Videographer Matthew Klein will be leading a free photo class and hike at Starved Rock State Park. This class and hike is open to anyone interested in improving their photography skills while enjoying the beauty of nature.

During the class, Matthew will share tips and techniques for capturing the hiking experience.

“You don't need an expensive camera or equipment to participate. Whether you have an iPhone, Android, or an advanced camera, the best camera is the one you currently have. Now, it’s time to share your perspective with the world,” Klein stated.  

This time of year is one of the best times for photographing waterfalls, as they’re often flowing fast due to winter snow melting and spring rain runoff.

The group will take a short hike to practice new techniques and explore the natural beauty of Starved Rock State Park. Ideas for editing and sharing your photos will also be provided.

The event is in collaboration with the Starved Rock Foundation and Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks. There is no cost to attend this event, but participants should bring the best camera they have. The event will start at 9am inside the Starved Rock Visitor Center. 

This is a great opportunity to learn new skills, enjoy the outdoors, and meet other photography enthusiasts.

Annual Calendar Project Raises $3224 for the Starved Rock Foundation

Community, photographers, and businesses team up to benefit Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks.

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A group of photographers and local businesses presented a check in the amount of $3224 to the Starved Rock Historical and Educational Foundation President, Pam Grivetti, on the 8th of January 2023. Pictured from left to right: Brian Gift, Paula Guttilla, Robbin Keenan, Pam Grivetti, Matthew Klein, Kyle Petersen, and Téa Lamboley

UTICA, IL - A total of $3224 was donated to the Starved Rock Historical and Educational Foundation, a volunteer-run not-for-profit organization founded in 1991 that supports the parks through educational programs, guided hikes, exhibit updates, and more.

The donation was made possible through the generous efforts of those who supported the fundraiser, local businesses who sold the calendars, and the photographers who provided images of Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks.

Over 200 photo submissions were received. “The final images represent the spirit of the parks from hikers across the Midwest, and in all seasons,” stated Matthew Klein, the creator of the annual calendar fundraiser.

The photographers who were selected for inclusion are Andrew Kenning, Erika Hoffmann, Yesenia Yanez, Téa Lamboley, Kyle Petersen, E.J. Rodriquez, Sharon Sarti, Joe Hotle, Paula Guttilla, Matthew Klein, Chet Phillips, and Brian Gift.

Demand for the calendars was higher than normal this year. Calendars were available to purchase at the Starved Rock Visitor Center Foundation Store, Bruce & Ollies at the Bickerman Building, the Starved Rock Country Welcome Center by Heritage Corridor Destinations, and Kishauwau Cabins.

“It’s always great to see local businesses and organizations supporting the annual fundraiser. Their support, combined with a strong digital approach, resulted in the calendars selling out for the first time ever,” Klein stated.

Any suggestions or comments should be emailed to matthewklein916@yahoo.com.

Footage included in Hallmark Movie

In case you missed it Utica, IL. was recently featured in Hallmark’s “A Christmas Cookie Catastrophe”. I filmed these aerial clips in January of 2021 for a different purpose, but they ended up also being licensed in this production. Take a look!

Click here to view the article.

Celebrating 5 Years – Matthew Klein Films

Five Years of New Perspectives and the Launch of Matthew Klein Photography.

02-01-2022

Five years ago today I shared my first video on my newly created Facebook page to about 23 followers. The video was based on a hike I took with my friends at Matthiessen State Park in Oglesby, IL. The intention behind the video was to allow the viewer to “follow me” along on my hike, from a new perspective.

That video I edited on my iPad quickly gained attention, and I knew I needed to create more videos with similar themes. Whether it be a natural waterfall, small town, community event, unique story, or even a bridge implosion, my goal has always been to capture these moments from a different point of view.

To think that I have been sharing videos for five years is quite shocking to me. I often share short form videos; however, it is important to remember that each video contains a backstory. Over the past few months I have been reflecting my videos, as well as the memories and stories that were created with each one.

While I enjoy sharing videos, the stories that make up each video deserve to be shared as well. A goal of mine when I first started was to capture moments that matter from a unique perspective. With that being said it is time to start looking at those moments again, this time with a new perspective in mind. 

Today, I’m excited to announce Matthew Klein Photography, the stories and images of Matthew Klein Films. 

I invite you to join me on this journey. The first story has been shared on Matthew Klein Photography, and there will be many more to come. I hope you enjoy, and most importantly, I hope it reminds you to view things from a new perspective once every now and then. I never would have imagined it would have led me to where I am today. 

As always, thank you for your support on all of my work. It means the absolute world to me. 

For the month of February, I will be sharing some of my favorite moments from the past five years on the Matthew Klein Films Facebook Page. Feel free to share your favorite video, photo, or moment in the comments on my five year Facebook post. I look forward to reflecting with everyone, and I will be responding to each and every comment.  

-Matthew Klein

Photographers and community donate $3375 to Starved Rock Foundation

Landscape photographers team up to benefit Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks.

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The group of photographers presented a check in the amount of $3375 to the Starved Rock Historical and Educational Foundation President, Pam Grivetti, on the 8th of January 2022. Pictured from left to right: Matthew Klein, Pam Grivetti, Paula Guttilla, Kathy Casstevens, and Téa Lamboley.

A total of $3375 was donated to the Starved Rock Historical and Educational Foundation, a volunteer-run not-for-profit organization founded in 1992 that supports the parks through educational programs, guided hikes, exhibit updates, and more. 

Pam Grivetti, President of the Foundation, stated “We’re very thankful for the large donation, to all those individuals who purchased a calendar, and to Entrepreneur Matthew Klein for his extra ordinary efforts in bringing this project together.”

The donation was made possible through the generous efforts of those who purchased a 2022 calendar, and the landscape photographers who provided images of Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks. 

“I believe these parks offer some of the most pristine, unique, and beautiful areas in the Midwest, so the idea of creating a calendar to benefit the places we love exploring came naturally,” stated Matthew Klein, the creator of the calendar fundraiser. 

Calendars were available to purchase at the Starved Rock Visitor Center Foundation Store, Bruce & Ollies in Utica, IL. and Stage 212 in LaSalle, IL. “It was great to see local businesses and organizations supporting the fundraiser, and I can’t thank them enough,” Klein commented. 

Each month included a seasonally accurate image taken by a different photographer. Each photographer donated an image and promoted the calendar to others. 

The photographers who donated a photo are Andrew Kenning, Tom Tarner, Steve Stout, Joe Howard, Kathy Casstevens, Kyle Petersen, Connor Broderick, Nicholas Albert, Téa Lamboley, Paula Guttilla, Jacob Etzenbach, and Matthew Klein.

Any questions or comments should be emailed to matthewklein916@yahoo.com

Footage included in HBO Series

I am honored and excited to have some of my Starved Rock and Illinois Valley area footage included in The Murders at Starved Rock HBO original documentary. Here are my video clips that were included in the show.

HBO Announcement:
The whole truth has yet to be uncovered.
#StarvedRockHBO, an HBO original documentary that follows David Raccuglia’s investigation into whether Chester Weger is responsible for the brutal murders of three women at Starved Rock State Park 60 years ago, premieres December 14 at 8PM on HBO Max.

The three-part series is now available to stream on HBO Max. View the trailer here