February 2018 Thrive Entertainment Guide

#B E H I N D THE

THRIVE

With the click of a mouse I have sent this issue to print as has been done over a hundred times before. But this time is different. This issue marks the beginning of a new day.

This copy you hold in your hands is the final publication of the Thrive Entertainment Guide.

Almost exactly nine years ago Brook Paslay and I found ourselves plugging away at building our new graphic design agency and searching for a way to connect with the community. It's hard to remember the exact series of events that led us to creating Thrive, but with the project we found a great sense of purpose.

Thinking back to that time, I remember that Decatur felt sleepy. We had been through a lot, and seeing the down side to life here was easy. Good things were happening, indeed, but even the Decatur “cheerleaders� had difficulty mustering the courage to shout it from the rooftops. We set out on a journey to build a platform for positive stories to help build confidence and change attitudes about the state of our community.

issue #105 | February 2018

Decatur Transfer House Sunrise photo: Alida Duff Sullivan, Hulida Productions

Oh, how far we have come!

I and the entire Thrive team thank you readers for supporting our endeavors and reading our stories. It has been an honor to play a role in our community revitalization. We have helped connect people in a time when working together toward a common goal is essential.

My north star has continued to be the notion that the more we know about our community the more we care. And when you start to really care about something, you kindle a passion to stand up and fight for it.

By far the most important work we have accomplished with Thrive is not the feat of printing a magazine month after month; it's that we have inspired an army of positive influencers to carry on the great work of sharing local stories of success.

We are more connected now than ever.

I continue to be inspired by your work for Decatur, by your support of our monthly contribution to “spreading the word� through Thrive, and most importantly by your kind words about our work. I challenge you to find new ways to discover and share information and to embrace all the other great media streams and organizations like Limitless Decatur working to make Macon County awesome.

I encourage you to get out and make a difference no matter how large or small you feel your part is—I promise your role is important. Together we are limitless.

Katrina Smalley Owner/Publisher, Thrive Entertainment Guide

Since June 2009, THRIVE has been a free monthly entertainment guide serving as your guide to events in Macon County. Distribution began with 80 partners and has spread to over 350 locations throughout Macon County. Beginning with an initial print run of 3,000 copies, THRIVE has now more than doubled in distribution and held an estimated readership of between 22,400 - 24,500.

Issue #105, published in February 2018, is the final edition of the Thrive Entertainment Guide.

FEBRUARY 2018 TEAM Publisher: Katrina Smalley The Eventor: Stephanie Zimmerman Eventor II: Tara Mata Editor and Senior Writer: Joli A. Hohenstein Copy Editor: Teena Zindel-McWilliams Photography Coordinator: Sarah Jane Photographers & Contributors: Beth DeBouck Kim Mangan Caitlin Cannon Chad Mitchell T.F. Dude Angela Myers Jordan Duncan Katie O'Riley Sarah Jane Robin Walters Layout Design: Showcard Studio Printing: Dynagraphics/Wood Printing Special thanks to the Macon Resources CAPS Program (Community Awareness, Possibilities & Supports) and ECNO Group (Empowering Community Network Opportunities) for all your help with delivering THRIVE each month!

- THANK YOU TO ALL WHO HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO OUR SUCCESS OVER THE YEARS Jayson Albright • Michelle Alexander • Whitney Andrews • Peggy Baity • Brian Bell • Colin Patrick Brady • Bailey Broderick • Shirley Brooks • Caroline Bruder • Jody Byers • Kevin Callarman • Caitlin Cannon • Brandon Carlson • Stella Carnahan • Mary Ann Carr • Paula Carr • Jo Caulkins • Alexis Corley • Jenny Cowgill • Brad Daugherty • Jessica Smalley • Beth DeBouck • Phil Donelson • Alida Duff Sullivan • Jordan Duncan • Kate Eagler • Caroline Evans • Dave Fishel • Ryan Gagnon • Stephanie Gagnon • Ruthie Gergeni • Shani Goss • Jentry Grader • Melissa Griggs • Robert Grindy • Harold Harmison • Sandy Harmison • Lindsey Harrison • Todd Hauser • Troy Hayes • Eric Hector • Molly Heise • Jennifer Hendricks • Alissa Henkel • Elizabeth Highcock • Susan Hoem • Joli Hohenstein • Maya Holst • Jan Hooten • Mike Horcharik • Sarah Jane • Hope Johnson • Jerry Johnson • Olivia Jones • Stacey Jones • Kevin Krows • Gil Lebois • Aric Lee • Elisabeth Lee • Travis Lickey • Adam Listek • Julie Lycan • Margie Malone • Brian Mangan • Kim Mangan • Tara Mata • Elissa McGlaughlin-Ragusa • Charlie McGorray • Abi McIntosh • Heather Meadows • Chad Mitchell • Susan O'Neal • Katie O'Riley • Angela Parson Myers • Brook Paslay • Rachel Peabody • Chris Phillips • Sue Powell • Kate Pyle • Mike Ringel • Jackie Runyen • Jamie Rutherford • Sherri Rutherford • John Schirle • Jessica Sebok • Shirley Shaw • Julie Shields • Christl Smalley • Gary Smalley • Valerie Smalley • Angie Smalley-Poor • Ali Stanton • Michelle Stephens • Hugh Sullivan • Lauren Taylor • Sean Thorton • Kelli Trei • Angela Turner • Valerie Wallace-Camp • Robin Walters • Rodney Washburn • Melissa Watson • Stephanie Zimmerman • Teena Zindel-McWilliams

Published by Showcard Studio • PO Box 6195 • Decatur, IL 62524 217.521.6171 @THRIVEDecatur Disclaimer: The contents of this magazine are covered by copyright. Reproduction in-part or in-full is forbidden, without the express permission of the publisher. It is not our intention to print any matter that discriminates on the grounds of race, sex, age, sexual orientation or disability. Every effort has been made to present all information accurately; however, no liability is accepted for any inclusions or omissions from the publication.

04 | February 2018

IN THIS ISSUE

BEHIND THE THRIVE

January Out & About

SPOTLIGHT: 3 v 3 Futsal

FOOD DUDE: R Bar & Grille

WILDCARD: IceFest

Pickleball In Decatur

Q&A: Peggy Baity

Spot the Difference Contest

February EVENTS RedZone

02 07 10 12 14 16 20 30 33 35

07

10 16

30 33 35

February 2018 | 05

Out & About

A look back at last month’s happenings

Decatur Conference Center & Hotel NYE Bash Over a hundred people rang in the New Year at the Decatur Conference Center & Hotel NYE Bash, which included a prime rib dinner buffet, midnight champagne toast, live music with The NATU Band, cash bar, hotel room and breakfast buffet on New Year's Day.

NYE by City Scout Wreckless Whiskey took the stage for a 2018 New Year's launch party for City Scout at Sliderz Bar and Grill. Matt Minder, creator of City Scout, says it is "a great way for local people to do local things." Check it out; City Scout will be the official app of the Decatur Celebration.

February 2018 | 07

Out & About

A look back at last month’s happenings

2018 UCP Barstool Open Hundreds of golfers were shuttled by school bus throughout Decatur on Saturday, January 13, during UCP's annual Barstool Open fundraiser. Approximately 50 bars and restaurants were organized into seven courses and staffed by volunteer scorekeepers.

Bridal Expo The Little Salon dolled up models displaying this wedding season's hottest looks on the runway at the 2018 Bridal Expo. Vendors covering every aspect of weddings joined in on the fun at the Decatur Conference Center & Hotel on January 6.

Fireside Relics at Sol Bistro In early January, Jason Gotts opened up for Fireside Relics at Sol Bistro in downtown Decatur. This popular dinner destination will once again host musical entertainment featuring local band favorites including LHP, Escaping Neverland, and Fireside Relics.

Rock the Rink

The Decatur Youth Hockey Association hosted the 28th annual Tournament of Friends at the Decatur Civic Center January 12 and 13. Weekend champs were the Bloomington Thunder (Squirt) and our own Decatur Flames (Pee Wee).

Outside of tournament play, the weekend also featured a skills competition.

February 2018 | 09

10

SPOTLIGHT

by Katie O'Riley

Futsal Gets the Ball Rolling

Catch the Action at Decatur’s Sixth Annual Tournament On February 24 and 25, one of the world’s hottest new sports comes to the Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) as Midstate Soccer hosts the 6th Annual 3 v 3 Indoor Futsal Tournament. Similar to indoor soccer, futsal provides some unique differences with fast pacing and a smaller ball. If you’ve ever watched or played a game of indoor soccer, you know the ball will bounce off the walls and the ground very quickly. However, in a game of futsal, the ball is smaller and heavier, which means less bounce and more rolling.

The hard, flat surface and the absence of the rebound walls require players to make more accurate passes.

Also, because the ball is heavier, the player needs more power to get the ball rolling. Players need to get a good first touch on the ball to stop it from continuing in motion or going out of play.

The size of the goals is also smaller (PUGG goals) compared to traditional-size soccer goals, and the playing fields are smaller as well. The games are team-oriented, and rules are designed to keep the playing field fair for both teams.

For the tournament, the games will consist of two 12-minute halves with no goalkeepers, just 3 on 3 players. Teams can have a maximum of six players on a team. Boys and girls from age ranges 8U to 12U will play on February 24, and 14U, high school and adults will play on February 25.

This tournament has grown over the years, with the first one involving around 30 teams. This year, organizers hope to have around 60-85 teams participate in the fun weekend! Teams come from all over the Central Illinois area to play, and some teams travel to Decatur from the St. Louis and Chicagoland areas.

Since the DISC’s facility has a hard, flat surface and other facilities have turf, MidState Soccer has benefited from hosting this tournament over the years. “MidState will also have an outdoor tournament called ‘Summer Showdown’ the last weekend of July,” says Eric Jameson, tournament organizer. “It will be a 3 v 3 tournament for ages U8-U14 on Saturday and a 5 v 5 tournament for high school players and adults on Sunday.”

Next year, they plan to have a 4 v 4 tournament, which would include goalkeepers and bigger goals. The game requires a stronger skillset than traditional soccer, but it’s designed to be fun for all – to play and to watch!

GET THERE: 3 v 3 Indoor Futsal Tournament February 24 & 25 DISC, 1295 W. Wood, Decatur $125 team entry fee due by February 9 429-3472 www.decatur-parks.org/decatur-indoorsports-center-disc/event/3-v-3-indoor-futsaltournament-disc/

10 | February 2018

Katie O'Riley is a freelance writer.

Mary Jo Curry Band Sun, Feb 4, 3-6p Johnny Vodka Sat, Feb 10, 9p-1a King T'z Sun, Feb 11, 3-6p Dave Lumsden and Friends Sun, Feb 18, 3-6p Suga Beatz Sat, Feb 24, 8p The Good The Bad and The Blues

Sun, Feb 25, 3-6p

2018 Registration Dates Dates

Outdoor Soccer Season is Coming Soon!

MYSL

Feb. 8 Feb. 12 Feb. 22 Feb. 26 Feb. 28 March 25

Location

South Shores Harris School Parsons School Baum School DISC DISC

Times 5 5 5 5 5 1

-

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

3 p.m.

Call 429-3472 for more information!

Season Dates March 26 - May 19 Regular Registration ends Mar. 9 $85 ($76 w/resident discount) Register at the DISC, midstatesoccer.com, or 429-3472.

Experience Counts!

Did you know that the combined experience of all MidState coaches tops 175 years? All of our licensed coaches are trained at the highest levels to lead our club’s players to success, individually and as a team, both on and off the field!

February 2018 | 11

12

THE FOOD DUDE

by T. F. DUDE

R Bar & Grille Full disclosure: Food Dude operates undercover when he visits restaurants, so there’s no special treatment whatsoever. It helps Food Dude keep his journalistic street cred, if you know what I mean. So it took some rather stealthy moves to slip into one of Decatur’s newest (and most popular) restaurants: R Bar & Grille in Downtown Decatur. If you tried to eat there in its opening months, you might’ve quickly realized a reservation is required. However, because they open at 4 pm on weekdays, I slipped in and sat at the bar (which was already half-full). Food isn’t served until 5 pm, but I was able to peruse the dining and cocktail menus. I’m not usually a martini kinda dude (sorry, Mr. Bond), but since I was suffering from a sweet tooth, I ordered the Godiva martini, and later on, the Raspberry Lemon Drop ($8). For the record, the latter was one of the best cocktails I’ve ever had at a bar.

For dinner, I was torn on what to order since everything sounded good and with the kind of twist that set their entrees apart from anything one might consider typical. Meanwhile, I did find it comfortable to sit at the bar on my own.

My neighbors were all friendly and willing to strike up a conversation. (“Hey, what are you havin’?”)

To start, I had the Pesto Shrimp Scampi ($9).

It includes six sizable sautéed shrimp served in butter and white wine with Parmesan and generously-sized grilled bread for soaking up the sauce. Ridiculously flavorful and a good portion for the price. Choosing my entree was intensely stressful. I decided on the 6 oz. Angus Filet (medium rare). The filet ($25) is served with a Béarnaise sauce and a choice of starch and vegetable. The sauce really brought out the flavor of the meat, which was cooked perfectly, and the potatoes were delicious.

The bartender was extremely attentive. The owner was also on hand, greeting guests personally, which is always indicative of a quality establishment. If you’re able to make a reservation or find a spot at the bar, Food Dude would recommend R Bar without hesitation!

12 | February 2018

GET THERE: R Bar & Grille 157 W. Main St., Decatur 217-330-6825 4-11 pm Tuesday-Saturday Find them on Facebook

The Food Dude is not a professional food critic. He just really, really likes food.

CAMPUS VISIT DAY

FEBRUARY 24, 2018 | 10:00AM TO 1:00PM STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER MAIN CAMPUS February 2018 | 13

14

WILDCARD

by Robin Walters

IceFest Freezing temps and chainsaws are the stuff dreams are made of in Argenta on February 10. And when they say, “It takes a village,” this Village lives that truth. Members of Argenta In Motion (AIM), including Olympic gold medalist Aaric Kendall, have been busy planning the second annual Argenta IceFest over the last year. New food vendors, new sponsors, all the spectacle of last year’s inaugural event and, hopefully, a temperature treat from Mother Nature, will make for a great day full of frosted fantasy.

The family-friendly event kicks off at 11 am with interactive ice play all day plus scheduled live demonstrations. Dress warmly for a ride down the ice slide, or challenge a friend in a slick new version of bags. Catch Aaric Kendall and his crew from Double A Carving Company morphing 300-pound blocks of ice into meticulous models of reality. Need to warm up? Stop by the indoor vendor fair, cozy up in a warming station, grab a cup of hot cocoa or visit the wine tasting tent for a spot around the fire pit. Whatever your comfort climate condition, you’ll find a variety of options for frigid fun or warm wonder.

“Our goal is to bring the same kind of excitement and engagement that big cities

14 | February 2018

up north bring to ice festivals,” says IceFest Ringleader Dawn Decker. “We have great local talent in Aaric Kendall, and we want to spotlight his success.”

Most of the ice action takes place at Prairie Park, but the event grows down Elm Street.

Hungry for more than icicles and snowballs?

Satisfy your appetite at all the “hot” spots uptown, including outdoor food vendors, Bargenta and Elm Street Grill.

Don’t leave too soon, or you could miss out on the amazing transformation from frozen to fancy as the ice sculptures are lit at dusk. Take a star-lit walk around the Prairie Park Path, or catch a break on the AIM-mobile trams.

GET THERE IceFest Community Center and Prairie Park Argenta February 10 11 am to 6 pm dwndecker@yahoo.com Find them on Facebook: Argenta IceFest www.argentafest.org/ice-fest

MILLIKIN UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF THEATRE & DANCE Written by Anne Washburn, with a score by Michael Friedman

March 1 at 7:30 p.m.

March 2 at 7:30 p.m.

March 3 at 2:00 p.m.

March 3 at 7:30 p.m.

March 4 at 2:00 p.m.

Over a period of 75 years after the apocalypse, the story of “Cape Fear,” as told by the TV show The Simpsons, evolves from a pop culture icon to mythology. Mr. Burns is a darkly comic examination of man’s instinct to survive and the role live performance plays in a post-apocalyptic recovery.

Albert Taylor Theatre · Tickets: $12-$14 217.424.6318 • kirklandfinearts.com

millikin.edu/visit

millikin.edu/theatre

Get a closer look at how 99% of Millikin students find success within six months of graduation. Visit campus, and find your reasons to Make it Millikin.

PICKLEBALL IN DECATUR Written by Angela Myers | Photos by Chad Mitchell

It sounds like an hors d’oeuvre.

But don’t reach for a fork. Reach for a racquet.

Pickleball is one of the newest and most inclusive sports in Decatur. It might also be the sport with the funniest name.

Some say it was named for the dog of one of the families who invented the sport in 1965, but a family member said the dog was named for the game. The game was named because it reminded her of the “Pickle Boat” in crew, with oarsmen chosen from the leftovers from other boats.

Pickleball does sound like it’s made up of leftovers from other games. It’s played like tennis on a court marked like badminton. But the paddles are made of wood or composite like pingpong, and the ball looks like a Wiffle ball. It’s served with an underhand stroke.

Then it gets complicated.

But the rules are “equalizers,” enabling everyone to have fun. Aside from scoring, the game is easy to learn. Teams can be any mix of age, gender and ability.

MORE ON PAGE 18

February 2018 | 17

18 | February 2018

PICKLEBALL IN DECATUR CONTINUED Perry and Kelly Lewin, owners of Decatur Jewelry & Pawn, play two or three times a week. Kelly introduced Perry to the game.

She’d taken a class through the Village of Mt. Zion at Fletcher Park, taught by Katrina (Kat) Smalley, the first female 5.0 USAPA-rated pickleball player in Illinois.

Finding a couple of pickup games outdoors is easy, but a major challenge to growing the sport in Decatur is Illinois weather. Indoor courts are available, but pickleball has to compete for time. Evenings are especially difficult.

Still, if the growth in other Midwestern communities is any indication, Decatur can look forward to lots of pickleball. Some cities have built entire businesses around pickleball.

In Kansas City, Missouri, you’ll find Chicken N’ Pickle, which has a restaurant, eight pickleball courts, various family yard games and live entertainment. Des Moines, Iowa, will soon “It’s a fabulous cardio workout,” Perry says. “I welcome a similar experience-based concept. feel it helps with coordination and balance Decatur may not see a dedicated pickleball and just gets you in a good mood. It’s a game facility in the near future, but the game is I’ll be able to play well into my golden years.” experiencing incredible growth. The Park Like Perry, many players look to pickleball District hosted its first indoor tournament on for a little feel-good exercise and social January 6 at the DISC, and more are expected. interaction, but it also offers a real challenge You can also look forward to a tournament at for the competitive spirit. The unique game the YMCA in November.

Perry had played racquetball for more than three decades and was immediately interested.

They now play occasionally with their two high school-aged children but usually team with other players at random. They count the new people they meet as one of the benefits of the game.

favors strategy, quick reactions and especially In the meantime, we’ll keep cheering on creativity. local players as they improve and challenge Sherry Plain and Margaret Hickman are themselves. Up next for Kat: the US Open credited with bringing pickleball to Decatur Pickleball Championships in Naples, Florida, after they played during a visit to Florida. where she’ll be playing in the Open Division Sherry approached the Decatur Park District, against the top players in the world.

and Cresthaven Park was identified as having • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • underutilized tennis courts. That was just the If you’re ready to take the plunge, visit start. decaturpickleball.com for scheduled times.

Cresthaven now has six courts designated for Just show up; they’ll teach you to play and pickleball. The lights come on at dusk and stay serve up the fun! on until about 10:15 pm. Additional courts were converted in South Shores Park, and indoor courts are available at Decatur Athletic Club, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) and Decatur Family YMCA.

February

Country Line Dance Come join a fun-filled evening, meet new people and learn EVERY MONDAY Monday Night Fun Run (except 2.19) to country line dance. 7-8p (Class), 8-9 (Dance). Knights of 1- and 3-mile fun run/walk; all levels are encouraged to attend. Columbus Hall [520 E North St] 7-9p Free, Fleet Feet Sports [1090 W Wood St, fleetfeetdecaturil.

EVERY WEDNESDAY com] 4-5p Toddler Open Gym Need some active Barn Colony Artists entertainment? Balls, hoops, Jim Morrison, oil painting (2.5, 2.12), Don Gruber, paper cutting building blocks, riding toys and puzzles provided in a safe (2.19), work or movie night (2.26). Madden Arts Center [125 play environment for children ages infant-5. $2 (1-5), Free (age N Water, decaturarts.org] 7-9p under 1 or full-facility member), EVERY MONDAY & DISC [1295 W Wood, 422.5911, WEDNESDAY decatur-parks.org] 9:30-11:30a Pickleball Open Play Open Mic Pickleball is easy to learn and Sign up starts at 8:30p. All acts play, whether you're 5, 85 welcome. Bands are ok, but or somewhere in between. no band sets untill after 10p.

Paddles available for a fee. $2 (non-member), Free (member), Basic PA, mics provided. Bring DISC [1295 W Wood, 422.5911, your own instrument cables.

Free, Donnie's Homespun Pizza decatur-parks.org] 9a-12p [126 Oakland Ave, 424.4344, EVERY TUESDAY info@donnieshomespun.com] Yoga at the Library 8:30p-1a Come to relax and center EVERY THURSDAY yourself with Yoga at the Toddler Time Library. Sessions are relaxed Open gym full of equipment and open to all levels. Dress to get your child moving! comfortably and bring your own mat or towel. DPL: Madden Activities include bounce house and games. For children ages Auditorium [130 N Franklin St, 2-5. Free (member), $2 (nondecaturlibrary.org] 12p-1p member), Decatur Family YMCA [220 W McKinley Ave, 872.3835, decaturymca.org] 10a-12p

Adult Coloring Release your inner child and join us. Coloring pages, colored pencils, crayons and markers, light refreshments and background music provided.

Children over 8 are welcome with an adult. Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, decaturlibrary.org] 5p-7p Blues Night A mixture of familiar blues and other favorite tunes. Come enjoy the great music, food and support local live music.

Featured guests: Don & Jerry.

Port Royal Gastropub [2880 N Oakland Ave] 6-9p Karaoke Thursdays Get crazy at Donnie's hightech karaoke. Signup starts around 9p. Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 Oakland Ave, donnieshomespun.com] 9p Thursdays with SilverLight Sounds $3, Free (MU students with ID), Sliderz [5995 E IL-36, facebook. com/events] 9p-12a EVERY FRIDAY DJ ChazzyChaz Friday Night Get Down Free, Sliderz [5995 E IL-36, facebook.com/events] 9:30p-2a DJ Rynski in the Booth Feeling Lucky [3775 N Woodford] 9:30p EVERY SATURDAY PokĂŠmon Card Game Come out and enjoy PokĂŠmon: Trading Card Game! Learn how to construct a deck and

Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!

play the game. Tournaments for the more experienced players! Hidden Lair [1460 N State Highway 121, Mt Zion, thehiddenlair.com] 12-3p DJ Philbilly Turnin It UP! Feeling Lucky [3775 N Woodford] 9:30p EVERY SUNDAY Recovery Yoga Yoga is a wonderful complement to your physical activity routine. It is a great workout for flexibility, balance and strength. Mildly vigorous and designed to help strengthen and shape the body while simultaneously connecting breath with movement in an effort to restore balance. Must pre-register. $5, Fleet Feet Sports [1090 W Wood St, fleetfeetdecaturil.com/training] 10:30-11:30a Family Game Day Get the family out of the house and enjoy a day together playing games! Hidden Lair [1460 N State Highway 121, Mt Zion, thehiddenlair.com] 12-8p THURSDAY, 1 The Fabulous Hoedads We're going to dance the night away! $5, VFW Post 99 [3915 N Cowgill St, thefabuloushoedads. com] 7-10p FRIDAY, 2 The Paper Boats Made up of Mirabelle Skipworth, Blake Martin, and Isaac Wieser. They are like alternative-folky.. yeah. Donnie's

Homespun Pizza [126 Oakland Ave, donnieshomespun.com] 10p-12:30a 2.2-2.3 For the Love of It Cabaret Join us for the eighth annual "For the Love of It" cabaret and dinner. All money benefits the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The fun, interactive format keeps both the audience and the cast on their toes. $35, The Decatur Club [158 W Prairie, 521.1479, emason23@hotmail.com, facebook.com/FTLOIcabaret] 5:30-9:30p SATURDAY, 3 BIG DOG Doubles Tournament Time again for the BIG DOG Doubles Tournament! This tournament has been set up to allow our higher handicaps in the area to have some fun!

ACS rules 8-ball doubles. All day (maybe all night) event.

Pre-registration required. Sign up at the bar. $40, Biggen's Bar & Billiards [858 W Green St, facebook.com/events] 9a-2a Super Saturday Recess Youth ages 4-11 enjoy an active Saturday morning with inflatables, scooters, basketball, tumbling, and rock wall (select dates)! No registration necessary. Parent must be present. Need not be a DISC member. $4, Free (full-facility member), DISC [1295 W Wood, 422.5911, decatur-parks.org] 10a-12p

STEAM Saturday Join us for an earthquakeresistant building challenge with Sam Johnson from BLDD! $15 (member), $20 (nonmember), Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, childrensmuseumofil.com] 10:30a-12p Good Citizens Award Tea The Stephen Decatur Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution hold a Good Citizens Award Tea. Chloe Hoaglin presents, "Flag Etiquette." Guests are invited to arrive at 12:45p. Free, St Paul's Lutheran Church [1 Bachrach Ct] 12:30-3p Movies @ Your Library!

Join our new host, Marc, for movies with some of your favorite actors and actresses (that may or may not have hit it big at the box office). Howard Lovecraft & the Frozen Kingdom PG. Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, decaturlibrary.org] 2-4:30p 10th Annual Italian Night Dinner There is nothing like a hearty Italian meal, especially when you're served enough food for two meals. Meal includes ravioli, tortellini, salad, garlic bread, dessert and a drink.

Carry-out available. Proceeds support St. Teresa. scholarships. $5 Children $5 in advance, $6 at door; Adults $7 in advance, $8 at door, St Teresa High School [2710 N Water St, facebook. com/events] 5-7:30p

February 2018 | 21

February

Escaping Neverland w/ Pure You know it's always a party when Escaping Neverland and Bourbon Street Cash Bash Sliderz get together. Come Join us at this Mardi Grasjoin in the good times with themed event for a taste of our special guests, Pure. Pure: The Big Easy in the Soy City 8-9p; Escaping Neverland: and your chance to win up 9:30p-12:30a. Sliderz [5995 E to $5,000 in a Reverse Raffle benefiting Children's Museum IL-36, facebook.com/events] of Illinois! Cajun-inspired spirits, 8p-12:30a live music from Lady Luck and West End Boogie Project New Orleans cuisine. Includes Great dance music from the food, drink ticket and one entry 60s! $5, VFW Post 99 [3915 N into the Reverse Raffle. $100 Cowgill St] 8-11p (admission for 2), RCC: Shilling Bones Jugs Live Center [One College Park, Featuring ragtime xylophone, facebook.com/events] 7-10p kazoos, resonator guitar, Masterworks IV 6-string banjo, banjo-mandolin, In 18th-century Vienna, upright bass, horns, washboard Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was and a medley of knick-knacks renowned for his prodigious and noise makers, Bones Jugs talent as a composer and conjures up an eclectic acoustic pianist. Many of Mozart's sound like no other. It's a 21st works, especially his Turkish century spin on early American March, were pinnacles of music that includes, but is not compositional creativity and limited to, ragtime, dixieland, cosmopolitan culture. The jugband, bluegrass, blues, string grandeur of his final symphony, band, skiffle, spasm, swing and later nicknamed "Jupiter," more. $5, Donnie's Homespun highlights the composer's Pizza [126 Oakland Ave, musical and emotional donnieshomespun.com] 10p-1a brilliance. Now, in 21st-century 2.3-2.4 Decatur, the Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra celebrates Heart of Illinois Gymnastics Meet Watch over 300 gymnasts of both Mozart's historical innovations and contemporary various levels compete in this USAG-sanctioned gymnastic creativity with debuts of its meet. See girls from Decatur's young artist competition only competitive gymnastics winners. $10-20, Kirkland Fine team, Gym Fusion! $5-10, Arts Center [1184 W Main St, 424.6342, millikin.edu/kirkland] Lutheran School Association (LSA) [2001 E Mound Rd, 7:30-9:30p 542.7189, gymfusion.net] 8a-5p

22 | February 2018

SUNDAY, 4 Faculty Recital Series: Justin John Moniz, tenor Voice recital by Coordinator of Voice Studies, tenor Justin John Moniz. Winner of the 2018 American Prize in Vocal Performance, Dr. Moniz is joined on stage by pianist Dr. Bruce Gibbons and the Millikin String Quartet. Open to the public.

Free, MU: Kaeuper Hall [1184 W Main St, millikin.edu/music] 4-5:30p MONDAY, 5 Movies @ Your Library!

The Beguiled (2017) R. Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, decaturlibrary.org] 5:30-8p TUESDAY, 6 Sports Sampler Parents participate in these fun sessions at the DISC, helping their 2-5 year-olds learn the fundamentals of t-ball, basketball, tumbling, running and more! $31 (resident), $36 (non-resident), DISC [1295 W Wood, 422.5911, decatur-parks. org] 10a Music by African-American Composers Millikin University School of Music and Millikin Piano Club present Guest Pianist and Speaker Dr. Rochelle Sennet in a lecture-recital that introduces the audience to AfricanAmerican composers and their music. Perkinson Music Center, Room 110. Open to the public.

Free, MU: Perkinson Music Center [1184 W Main St, millikin. edu/music] 6-7:30p

Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!

WEDNESDAY, 7 Decatur Emerging Leaders' Dale Carnegie Luncheon Take this opportunity to learn the ability to communicate with diplomacy and tact and improve your leadership skills. Registration required

by February 5th. $25 (DEL members), $35 (non-DEL members), The Decatur Club [158 W Prairie, decaturchamber. com] 11:30a-1p Books Between Bites Secrets of a Civil War Submarine: Solving the Mysteries of the H. L. Hunley by Sally M. Walker.

Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, decaturlibrary.org] 12:15-1p Wednesday Women If your New Year's Resolution was to add more fun to your life, there is still time‌and this is the group! RSVP, jccaulkins@ aol.com. The Gin Mill [124 N Prairie St] 5-7p Movies @ Your Library!

Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (1967) NR. Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, decaturlibrary.org] 5:30-8p Mid-week at Sliderz You know what it is... Acoustic tunes, insults, drinks, romance, hope, emotions, etc. Sliderz [5995 E IL-36] 7-10p MU Women's Basketball vs North Central College MU: Griswold Center [1184 W Main St] 7p

THURSDAY, 8 Decatur Camera Club Our guest presenter is Scott Alexander, a Tech Rep and advocate for Canon U.S.A. Scott's images have been published in publications including Crain's Chicago Business and Railway Age. His images have also appeared in national museums and colleges.

He was awarded "Industrial Photographer of the Year" by PPA. Open to the public. Free, Westminster Presbyterian Church [1360 W Main St] 6-8p

Shades of Gray Band Classic rock/country. $5, VFW Post 99 [3915 N Cowgill St] 7-10p FRIDAY, 9 Creative Brain Dance Move and groove your body to create sparks in your brain and grow! Free with museum admission, Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, childrensmuseumofil.com] 10-10:45a

Early Explorers Dive into a world of dinosaurs galore, with hands-on learning BGT #20 and fun! For ages 2-5. $5 Biker Get Together is Mardi Gras (resident), $7 (non-resident), themed! Smooth Times Band Johns Hill Center [601 S Jasper, playing! Infusion Bar & Banquet 422.5911, decatur-parks.org] Center [2882 N Dinneen St, 10-10:40a facebook.com/events] 6-8p Date Night: Krafty Things with Katie Acrylic Pour Painting Feeling crafty and romantic?

Bond with your sweetie while Make a beautiful and simple sipping your favorite beverage heart wreath from old sheet and creating two 12" X 24" music or book pages. Ages canvas paintings! Instruction 10+. Signup recommended.

Free, DPL: Madden Auditorium and supplies included. $55, Fletcher Park: Recreation Center [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, [400 S Henderson St, Mt Zion, decaturlibrary.org] 6-8p 864.5424, mtzion.com] 6:308:30p Layered Abstract on Canvas Let go and create a personal masterpiece inspired by painter Nina: La Storia Nascosta If you are a music student, you Flora Bowley using several probably have been asked types of paint, techniques, to sing a selection from the styles and lots of COLOR in popular yellow and green book this easy painting. Bring your 24 Italian Songs and Arias. Hear own snack and beverage; we the complete catalogue in the supply all the materials and tools. Ages 21+. $17 (member), new two-act opera, Nina: La Storia Nascosta. Join us for the $20 (non-member), Decatur Area Arts Council [125 N Water, world premiere in Kaeuper Hall PMC! Millikin University [1184 decaturarts.org] 6-8p W Main Street, facebook.com/ events] 7:30-10p

February

Workshop: Happy Chinese New Year Join instructor Xin (Water) SATURDAY, 10 Zhao and learn about this fun 4-H Worm Composting Workshop Chinese holiday, try some tasty Learn how vermicomposting treats, paint a landscape or Year reduces food and paper waste of the Dog scroll, a Chinese fan by developing a good compost and lantern, try your hand at out of unwanted household Chinese calligraphy and much materials. Participants build a more! Ages 6 - Adult. $17 worm bin (worms not provided) (member), $20 (non-member), to take home and prepare for $10 (additional parent), Decatur spring gardening. Registration Area Arts Council [125 N Water, required by February 1. $15 423.3189, decaturarts.org] (member), $20 (non-member), 10:30a-12:30p U of I Extension, Macon County [3351 N President Howard Brown Blvd, 877.6042, go.illinois. edu/dmp] 9-11a Friends of the Library 2nd Saturday Book Sale Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, friendsdpl. org] 9:30a-12:30p Super Saturday Recess Youth ages 4-11 enjoy an active Saturday morning with inflatables, scooters, basketball, tumbling and rock wall (select dates)! No registration necessary. Parent must be present. Need not be a DISC member. $4, Free (full-facility member), DISC [1295 W Wood, 422.5911, decatur-parks.org] 10a-12p

SATURDAY, 10 Second Annual Argenta IceFest features pro ice sculpting by Olympic Gold Medalist Aaric Kendall. Activities include live demonstrations, interactive ice play, sponsored ice sculptures, lit ice sculptures at dusk, food trucks, vendor fair, wine tent and chili cookoff. Most of the action takes place in Prairie Park, but the fun runs down Elm Street. There are warming stations for the portions that are outdoor.

Prairie Park [Argenta, argentafest.org] 11a-6p

Kid's Club "Valentines for Kids" Doodles the Dragon, Granny Giggles & the Gary Strong Marionette Show. Concessions, two classic cartoons, valentine games, music and double grand prizes. Children are asked to bring signed valentines for kids in local hospital children's wards and senior citizens in assisted living and nursing homes. Doors open 1:30p; show 2p. $1 (child), $4 (adult), Fletcher Park: Recreation Center [400 S Henderson St, Mt Zion, 864.5424, mtzion.com] 2-4p MU Women's Basketball vs Augustana College (IL) MU: Griswold Center [1184 W Main St] 5p L'Art Valentine Acrylic Pour for Adult Couples Spark your inner artist and have a fun and unique date night while sipping your favorite beverage during this romantic and creative paint session!

Receive step-by-step instruction on how to intertwine your paint choices onto each other's canvas to create an artistic masterpiece while enjoying an evening of laughter, romance and true self-expression to be remembered. Each couple paints two 12" x 24" canvases.

All supplies included! $55 per couple, Doherty's Pub & Pins [242 E William St, 433.6985, laurie5995@gmail.com] 6-8:30p

Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!

Trivia Night Help raise money for Dennis Lab School! Cash bar. $100 (table of 10), Decatur Club [158 W Prairie Ave, 855.0534, mbballinger@gmail.com] 6-9p

maconcountyconservation.org] [3915 N Cowgill St, 358.9273, thefabuloushoedads.com] 7:30- 1-4p 10:30p MONDAY, 12 LHP Valentine's Cooking Show with Sliderz [5995 E IL-36, facebook. Executive Chef Brian Pehr com/events] 8p-12a Celebrate Valentine's Day Early with Mari-Mann and Executive Dueling Pianos 101 Laughs Chef Brian Pehr. Full of fun and Valentine Dinner Fundraiser A Comedy Fundraiser food (a full meal prepared for Featuring Midwest Dueling Join Comedians With Day everyone in attendance) and Pianos. Doors open at 6:30p; featuring complete recipes dinner 7p; music 8p. Fundraiser Jobs Podcast Hosts Jeremy Hughes and Larry Smith for for everyone to take home for the Splash Pad at Fletcher a night of fun in support of to replicate whenever they Park. Purchase tickets at the Jen McMillin for State Rep! choose. Mari-Mann Herb Farm Village Hall, online, Kenney's $30, Sliderz [5995 E IL-36, [1405 Mari-Mann Ln, marimann.

Ace Hardware and Sav-Mor 341.7062, secure.actblue.com/ com] 6-8p Pharmacy (Mt Zion). Tickets donate/101laughs] 8:30-10p available until February 5. $40, TUESDAY, 13 Mt Zion Convention Center West End Boogie Project Chocolate Extravaganza [1400 Mt Zion Parkway, Mt Zion, Great dance music from Come early as we sell out fast 864.5424, mtzion.com] 6:30-10p the 60s! JB's Hideout [341 N with various chocolates, candy, Railroad, Blue Mound] 9p-1a brownies and cookies wrapped MU Men's Basketball vs and ready to go. Raffle prize Augustana College (IL) 2.10-2.11 of a Winter Getaway Package MU: Griswold Center Decatur Gun Show [1184 W Main St, Promoter: The Cloe Group LLC. with hotel, dinner, wine and athletics.millikin.edu] 7p $6, Decatur Conference Center chocolates. Raffle tickets $5 and Hotel [4191 W US Highway each or 3 for $10 in the hospital Pizzazz Rocks 36, facebook.com/events] 8a-4p gift shop or various days in front Come enjoy great food, great of the cafeteria from 11a-1p. St (Sa), 8a-2p (Su) drinks and the great sounds Mary's Hospital [1800 E Lake of Pizzazz at Port Royal! Free, SUNDAY, 11 Shore Dr, 454.6084] 7a Port Royal Gastropub [2880 N Valentine's Day Fun Run Oakland Ave] 7-10:30p Zoo Buddies Join Fleet Feet Sports and Ray Our youngest zoo enthusiasts Eldridge Jewelry for a 1- or Valentine's Gala have their own pint-sized 3-mile fun run and pancake Decatur Frontiers International breakfast! All raffle sales benefit adventures! Kids ages 3-5 semi-formal dance with live discover a new species or Millikin University Track and music by Foo Gang. Appetizers environment and take home Field. Fleet Feet Sports [1090 & cash bar. $25 (person), $45 a zoo buddy plush toy. $13 W Wood St, fleetfeetdecaturil. (couple), The Decatur Club [158 (resident), $16 (non-resident), com/events] 8:30-9:30a W Prairie, 451.6753, tstonz@aol.

Scovill Zoo [71 S Country Club com] 7-11p Bluegrass Music Jam Rd, 422.5911, decatur-parks.org] Enjoy bluegrass tunes at 10-11a & 2-3p The Fabulous Hoedads Rock Springs Nature Center.

Bring your dancing shoes and For all ages. Free, Rock partner for a night of great Springs Conservation Area dance music! $5, VFW Post 99 [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708,

February 2018 | 25

February Strong By Zumba Party on Fat Tuesday Join us for a special Strong

by Zumba party led by Jenny Ahlswede and Maria Villalpando Lozano on Fat Tuesday!

Participants receive a mask and beads at this one-of-a-kind Mardi Gras event. Fundraiser for Camp Sokkia. $10, Decatur Family YMCA [220 W McKinley Ave, decaturymca.org] 5:308:30p Macon County Community Environmental Council Interested in promoting conservation, preservation, restoration and environmental awareness in Macon County?

Join us for an informational meeting. Refreshments provided. Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin St, decaturlibrary.org] 6-7:30p DPL Graphic Novel Book Club Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood by Marjane Satrapi.

Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, decaturlibrary.org] 6:30-8p 2.13-2.14 Mini Camp: Fantastic Foxes Children ages 1-5 with an adult buddy learn about the native red fox that live and play in our wooded areas.

Register online by noon on

26 | February 2018

February 12. $6 (child), Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 9:30-10:30a WEDNESDAY, 14 Valentine's Day Craft Adults are invited to create a Valentine's Day canning jar craft to decorate your home or gift to a loved one. All craft supplies provided. Register online by February 13. Free, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 2-4p MU Men's Basketball vs Illinois Wesleyan University MU: Griswold Center [1184 W Main St, athletics.millikin.edu] 7p THURSDAY, 15 DPL Book Club Lying by Sam Harris & Annaka Harris. Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, decaturlibrary.org] 1-2p Decatur Emerging Leaders' Sip & Social Network with other young professionals in our community.

Door 4 Brewing Co [1214 W Cerro Gordo St] 5:30-7p FRIDAY, 16 Great Backyard Bird Count Join more than 160,000 people across the globe and help scientists track bird species and populations across the world.

Help put Macon County birds on the map! No experience necessary. Be prepared to

take a hike around the glacial kame. Free. All ages. Register online by February 15. Free, Griswold Conservation Area [9896 Meridian Rd, Blue Mound, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 9a-11a Music at the Museum Sing along with Michael and Zach, and tinker with musical instruments. Great for families with children ages 0-7! Free with museum admission, Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, childrensmuseumofil.com] 10-10:45a 24-Hour Burn for Freedom People of faith from all over Decatur are coming together for 24 hours to unite against injustice and freedom for those involved in human trafficking.

Event t-shirts available and all proceeds go to Dove, Inc. Free, Decatur House of Prayer [273 E Maryland Heights Rd, decaturhop.org] 6p WINOS (Women In Need Of Sanity) Moms..Need a break now that the kids are back in school?

We've got the perfect solution for you! Pre-registration required. Varies, Fletcher Park: Recreation Center [400 S Henderson St, Mt Zion, 864.5424, mtzion.com] 6:309:30p The Fireside Relics Sol Bistro [237 N Main St, facebook.com/events] 8:3011:30p

2.16-2.18 And Then There Were None Ten strangers are summoned to a remote island. All that the guests have in common is a wicked past they're unwilling to reveal and a secret that will seal their fate, for each has been marked for murder. As the weather turns and the group is cut off from the mainland, the bloodbath begins, and one by one they are brutally murdered in accordance with the lines of a sinister nursery rhyme. Tickets available online or at the Civic Center Box Office. $15, Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, theatre7.net] 7:30p (Fr-Sa), 2p (Su)

(non-member), $10 (additional parent), Decatur Area Arts Council [125 N Water, 423.3189, decaturarts.org] 10:30a-1:30p Founders Day Luncheon Cheri Hunter presents "The DAR, What is it?" $9, First United Methodist Church [201 W North St] 12-3p

Tricia to reserve your space. $10 (person), RCC: Shilling Center [One College Park, 875.7200, richland.edu/alumni] 5-8p

Moonshine Bandits Live Moonshine Bandits making their way to Decatur for the first time! Tickets are limited.

Opening Act: Twang And Round. $15-20, SkyWalker Movies @ Your Library!

International Sports [400 E Howard Lovecraft & the Undersea Eldorado Street, facebook.com/ Kingdom PG. Free, Decatur events] 9-11:30p Public Library [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, decaturlibrary.org] SUNDAY, 18 2-4:30p Knockerball MAX on ICE! Come out on the ice and get LA Gallery Show in the ball! $3, Decatur Civic One day only art exhibit of Center [1 Gary K Anderson two local artists from the New Plaza, decaturciviccenter.org] & Growing Artists of Central 11:45a-12:45p SATURDAY, 17 Illinois group. Free. Hosted MEGA Indoor Rummage Sale!

by L&L Studio. Location: MONDAY, 19 Huge sale of new, used items, Heroic Age Art Center [135 4-H Stitch & Sew Workshop craft booths and baked goods S Henderson St, Mt Zion, Join Macon County 4-H and to raise funds for Decatur facebook.com/LandLSuite5] learn the basics of sewing.

Christian School! Light lunch 3-8p Youth ages 10-18 create two available plus a bake sale of pillow cases, one to take Pizzazz Rocks homemade goodies. Decatur home and one to donate to Come enjoy great food, great Christian School [137 S charity. Registration required drinks, great music and great Grant St, Forsyth, 877.5636,

by February 12. Free, U of I friends! Free, Feeling Lucky decaturchristian.net] 7a-3p Extension, Macon County [3351 [3775 N Woodford] 4-8p N President Howard Brown Blvd, Black Art History Workshop 877.6042, go.illinois.edu/dmp] Richland Alumni Association Learn about black artists 10a-12p Trivia Night throughout history. From Join us for an exciting evening Movies @ Your Library! painters to writers, musicians, of trivia for adults of all ages.

His Girl Friday (1940) NR. dancers and composers, these Alumni, students, community artists have shaped our country members, faculty and staff are Free, Decatur Public Library and our culture with their talent all invited to play! Teams up to [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, and activism. Explore how they 8 people. Drawings, prizes, food decaturlibrary.org] 5:30-8p used and use art to express and cash bar available. Proceeds themselves and create social benefit Investing In The Future change, and then create your Scholarship Fund. Doors open own art using their work as 5p; trivia begins 6p. Contact inspiration! Bring lunch! Ages 8-adult . $25 (member), $30

February Winter Warrior Track Workout with Brooks 30 min-1 hr guided track workout at the Decatur Indoor Sports Center. Brooks shoe demos. $2 (non-member), Free (member), DISC [1295 W Wood, fleetfeetdecaturil.com] 6-7p Nile Flow Movement Monday Come enjoy a night of live entertainment, vendors and more. $10, Infusion Bar & Banquet Center [2882 N Dinneen St, 450.1960, nileflowmovement.com] 7-10p TUESDAY, 20 MU Women's Basketball vs North Park University MU: Griswold Center [1184 W Main St] 7p WEDNESDAY, 21 Adult Bingo Prizes available. Free, Fletcher Park: Recreation Center [400 S Henderson St, Mt Zion, 864.5424, mtzion.com] 10-11a Coffee with the Herald & Review Come meet general manager Joel Fletcher and marketing service manager Jonell Kehias.

Share your thoughts and suggestions about the Herald & Review. #TogetherDecatur.

Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe [256 W Main] 12-1p

28 | February 2018

Movies @ Your Library!

Eve's Bayou (1997) R. Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, decaturlibrary.org] 5:30-8p

Family Event: Heroes and Villains Party Put on your cape, tights and masks and come dressed as your favorite comic book, graphic novel, manga or movie The Decatur Vegetarian Society superhero or villain! Have a Bring a vegetarian or vegan blast playing games, making dish to share (with ingredients comic book superhero/villain written down) and your themed art and lots of other own table service and drink. activities! Lots of prizes, photo Free, Decatur Public Library ops, food, snacks and drinks.

[130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, Costume contests, door prizes decaturlibrary.org] 6-8p and much more. Fun for all ages! Ages 6-adult; Under age 6 Open Blues Jam requires adult accompaniment.

Open to all blues musicians $20, Decatur Area Arts Council and vocalists. Come jam with [125 N Water, decaturarts.org] Noah Williams. Bring your instruments. Drum kit furnished. 6:30-8p No cover. Free, Pop's Place West End Boogie Project [4335 W Main St, 855.4262, Great dance music from the roger.meridith@yahoo.com, 60's! $5, VFW Post 99 [3915 N decaturblues.org] 7-10p Cowgill St] 8-11p THURSDAY, 22 2.23-2.25 Mid-Day Fashions And Then There Were None Informal modeling of clothes See description on page 27 that are available to purchase from Shop On Main. Free, SATURDAY, 24 Wildflour Artisan Bakery & 2018 Gardening Insights Cafe [256 W Main, 422.2674, Join the Macon County Master legsrlng@yahoo.com] 11:30a-1p Gardeners for a unique and fun day of horticulture programs.

Shades of Gray Band Lunch included. Register by Classic rock/country. VFW Post February 20. $30, Richland 99 [3915 N Cowgill St] 7-10p Community College [1 College Park, go.illinois.edu/dmp] 9a-4p FRIDAY, 23 Creative Brain Dance Cornhole Bags Tournament Move and groove your body Blind Draw Crew Cup ($10) to create sparks in your brain starts at 1p; Bring Your Own and grow! Free with museum Partner ($30) starts at 3p. 100% admission, Children's Museum pay out! $10-30, Infusion Bar of Illinois [55 S Country Club & Banquet Center [2882 N Rd, childrensmuseumofil.com] Dinneen St] 12-6p 10-10:45a

Celebrating Decatur's Black History Celebrate Black History Month with the Greater Decatur Black Chamber of Commerce. $50, Hickory Point Golf Club Banquet Facility [727 W Weaver Rd] 7-10p Mojo and the Bayou Gypsies Mister Mojo and his troupe of near-mad musical provocateurs are bringing an authentic Cajun experience of Zydeco music for a Mardi Gras celebration!

Mojo and the Bayou Gypsies have poured Louisiana fire on audiences for over a quarter century. Few performers lift an audience like Mojo and the Bayou Gypsies. $10 (K-12 with paying adult), $20-30 (adult), Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main St, 424.6318, millikin. edu/kirkland] 7:30-10p LHP Listen to some music; celebrate Mardi Gras with some sol! Sol Bistro [237 N Main St] 8-11p Pizzazz Rocks VFW Come dance to the high-energy sounds of Pizzazz! $5, VFW Post 99 [3915 N Cowgill St] 8-11p Shuga Beatz Pop's Place [4335 W Main St] 8p-12a Night Hike Use your senses to find your way through the woods at night. Discover what makes your eyes, ears and nose work.

Dress warmly: we are outside the entire time. Register online

by February 23. $2, Sand Creek

Basic East Coast Swing Begins Learn the basics of single-step East Coast Swing. Also called the Jitterbug, ECS is the most versatile of the swings and Slidin' it in to Sliderz, part deaux! can be danced to all your rock We're rockin' all night long! n' roll and swing music. It is Sliderz [5995 E IL-36] 9p-1a fun and easy to learn. Preregistration required. $70, Mt SUNDAY, 25 Zion Convention Center [1400 The Decatur Genealogicial Mt Zion Parkway, Mt Zion, Society General Meeting 864.5424, mtzion.com] 6-7p Presentation by Donald Chamberlain entitled "Building Rhumba I Begins Illinois Railroads." Come This "dance of love" adds step prepared to enjoy and learn! patterns and technique to your Program followed by a brief basic ballroom skills. Rhumba, meeting at 2p with time for a slow-moderate tempo research and refreshments.

Latin-based dance, can be Free, Decatur Genealogical danced to all your ballroom and Society [1255 W South Side Dr, contemporary favorites, with 429.0035, decaturgensoc@att. or without a Latin beat. $70 net] 1-4p (couple), Mt Zion Convention Center [1400 Mt Zion Parkway, Seasons Changing Hike Spring is almost upon us! Take Mt Zion, 864.5424, mtzion.com] 7:15-8:15p a walk to view and uncover the changes that occur in TUESDAY, 27 plants and animals as nature DPL Non-Fiction Book Club transitions from winter to Ring Around the Rosary by spring. For all ages. Register Gretchen Grossman. Free, online by February 23. Free, Decatur Public Library [130 Rock Springs Conservation Area N Franklin St, 424.2900, [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, decaturlibrary.org] 1p-2p maconcountyconservation.org] 2-3p WEDNESDAY, 28 Decatur Emerging Leaders' The Good The Bad and The Blues Table for Ten Pop's Place [4335 W Main St] Enjoy lunch with young 3-6p professionals. Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 Oakland MONDAY, 26 Ave] 12-1p Movies @ Your Library!

Happy Death Day (2017) PG-13. Movies @ Your Library!

Free, Decatur Public Library Marshall (2017) PG-13. Free, [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, Decatur Public Library [130 decaturlibrary.org] 5:30-8p N Franklin St, 424.2900, decaturlibrary.org] 5:30p-8p Conservation Area [4000 S Franklin Street Rd, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 9-10:30p

YOU’RE NEAR THE END ZONE WITH REDZONE Mike Lambdin has been in the gym business as an owner since 1993. With his vast experience comes knowledge, and he identifies three main reasons that people quit going to the gym: 1. They don’t know what to do.

2. They’re unable to afford personal training.

By: Caitlin Cannon

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION Located next door to the City of Decatur Police Department, RedZone Fitness also adjoins his other business: ML CrossFit. According to Mike, one great advantage of being next door to the police department is there is one way in and one way out.

The running regimen currently takes place on the concrete pavement outside and, unlike 3. They lack motivation. before, not out on a public street. Come spring and weather permitting, the trails behind the Mike was determined to find a resolution facility will open to members only. The trails for gym goers. “I wanted to bring a different are 3 miles long, run from South Side Drive and fitness center to Decatur, so I went out and go all the way to Borg Warner Field. got what I feel is the most motivated staff Mike also wanted to design a program that that I could find,” he says. “A workout program worked with ML CrossFit. “My CrossFitters can where each individual is heart rate monitored go through the door and take a RedZone class, and in a group, interval setting. In other words, and if my RedZone people are interested in I wanted to train lots of people at one time.” trying CrossFit, it’s a lot more inviting,” he says.

Mike’s dream came true on December 11 “It’s still two different businesses, but under when the doors to RedZone Fitness opened one building.” for the first time.

30 | February 2018

THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT

YOU’LL BURN HOW MANY CALORIES?!

Two apps in fact—RedZone Fitness Decatur and MYZONE. The free RedZone Fitness Decatur app allows the user to log in and sign up for available classes. You can also sign up for classes online. The maximum capacity for a class is 24 members.

A typical RedZone Fitness class is an hourlong interval workout, in a group setting, with a mixture of assault bikes, floor work, free weights, rowing machines and treadmills.

Mike’s goal is that every time you attend a RedZone Fitness class, you burn 500 to 1,000 calories. One thing he does differently: He does not lock gym members into a 12-month membership. He believes that this approach is a win-win situation for his customers. A variety of month-to-month membership options are available to fit your schedule and fitness goals, too.

The MYZONE app correlates with the MYZONE Fitness Belt. You place the belt around your chest and track the level of effort throughout the workout and then displays it on a television screen for you and the instructor to see. The free MYZONE app is also like a Facebook version for fitness classes. You can friend community of members and encourage them to reach goals together.

GET THERE: RedZone Fitness 715 W. South Side Dr., Decatur 217-972-6526 www.rzdecatur.com Find them on Facebook

Environmental and Architectural Graphics | Vehicle Wraps | Offset Printing Banners, Signs, Decals/Labels and Tags | Trade Show Displays Business Collateral | Online Stores | Retail Sign Packages

3220 N Woodford | Decatur, IL 62526 | 217.876.9950

32 | February 2018

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33

THRIVE Q&A

PEGGY BAITY

You may think the cold weather puts a chill on your culture, but Decatur will prove you wrong time and again. Local entrepreneur Peggy Baity founded The ArtFarm, downtown Decatur’s newest artisan retailer and gallery, with an eye toward making warm connections between local artists and the community – so who better to suggest great ways to warm up your social life this winter?

BEST FAMILY OUTING IN MACON CO:

Camping! We hit Weldon Springs, Mascoutin and Friends Creek campgrounds as many times as possible during the season.

FAVORITE PLACE TO SEE ART IN MACON COUNTY:

Anywhere you can walk in nature. Rock Springs is a fantastic place to have art find you. When you open your mind, you’ll see the most breathtaking masterpieces are found in the everyday.

WHY MACON COUNTY NEEDS THE ARTFARM DECATUR:

So much talent in our community is greatly under represented. Also, so much talent is regional that our community doesn’t often get exposed to. My mission is to fill both of those voids!

BEST PART ABOUT THE ARTFARM DECATUR:

We will constantly evolve and innovate. I want people always to feel warmly welcomed but also to have a different visual and learning experience each time they visit. The 11:11/ Ankrom Gallery shows will change, as well as the vendors. I have so, so many plans, I’d need at least seve pages if you turned me loose.

ONE THING WE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE ARTFARM DECATUR:

We will be on the First Friday gallery walk circuit!

Be sure to hit Blue Connection, The Anne Lloyd Gallery, Gallery 510 and then a short stroll (cattywampus) through beautiful Central Park to check out what’s happening at The ArtFarm!

Photo: Sarah Jane

SOMETHING ABOUT THE ARTFARM DECATUR THAT WOULD SURPRISE US:

The Durham Tobacco ghost mural we uncovered via a ladder accident. It spans our entire west wall and was painted pre-1885. It’s amazingly preserved and vibrant. It set us an entire month behind on renovations, but it was well worth the sweat and mess. I feel like we were set in motion to uncover it.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE ARTFARM DECATUR:

As soon as I catch my breath, I will delve into some poetry events, launch a “KidPreneur” section where little locals who create will have a place to showcase and sell their wares, and host workshops by local and regional artists. Make sure you stay tuned for our big grand opening celebration that’s planned for March. The food, music, people, art & vibe will all be good!

We’ll Meet You There.

www.decu.com/meetyouthere

SPOT THE

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Feb 15

120 Oakland Ave | facebook.com/Blue-Spoon-at-Oakwood | 217.422.1111

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2 WAYS TO WIN:

1. Find all 6 differences and earn 2 entries! Send an email by February 15 to contests@thrivedecatur.com that includes your name and the 6 differences. 2. Couldn’t find all the differences?

Visit THRIVE Decatur on Facebook on February 15 to see the password. Email your name and password to earn 1 entry. Winners will be drawn on or around February 20 and notified by email. One entry per email address.

All entrants names and email addresses will be used to promote future contests by Thrive and shared with the Spot the Difference Challenge Sponsor for promotional usage.