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Entertainment Guide
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Ring in the Season on the Local Music Scene
Dec 2012 Featuring: The Decatur area’s handiest Events Calendar
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is a FREE, monthly entertainment guide featuring the handiest events calendar for the Decatur, IL area. THRIVE IS ALSO
... a state of Being. To THRIVE is to Flourish. It’s Prosperity. It’s Success. It’s Positivity at all cost. It’s finding the Fun in all you do. It isn’t always easy, but to persevere against those who would have you believe “there’s nothing to do here” is to THRIVE. THRIVE is a publication of Showcard Studio PO Box 6195 • Decatur, IL 62524 • 217.791.5653 www.thrivedecatur.com www.issuu.com/thrivedecatur Publisher: Katrina Smalley publisher@thrivedecatur.com Editor and Senior Writer: Joli Hohenstein Copy Editor: Teena Zindel-McWilliams The Eventor: Stephanie Zimmerman events@thrivedecatur.com Contributors: T. F. Dude Todd Hauser Troy Hayes Joli Hohenstein Jerry Johnson Kim Mangan Katrina Smalley Robin Walters
Photographers: Kim Mangan Katrina Smalley Robin Walters
Layout Design: Showcard Studio Printing: Wood Printing Special thanks to the Macon Resources CAPS Program (Community Awareness, Possibilities & Supports) for all your help with THRIVE deliveries! 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.
02 | december 2012
Accelerated Rehabilitation Centers • ADM • All Things Beautiful Collectibles and Gifts • Aloha • America’s Best Value Inn • An Affair to Remember • Applebee’s • Architectural Expressions • Area 51 Salon • Area One Realtors • Aspen Dental • Attitudes Salon • AVON Theater • Baker Law Office • Baymont Inn & Suites • Benny’s Grill • Billingsley BP Service Station • Bliss Salon • Blue Connection • Blue Eggs & Ham • Blue Mound Village Hall • Bourbon Barrel • Brinkoetter & Associates • C&K Custom Signs • Carlos O’Kelly’s • Cartridge World • Casey’s General Store - Maroa • Casey’s General Store - West Mound • Caterpillar • Cedar Lake Gardens and Gifts • Central Illinois Hand Center • Central Illinois Title Company • Children’s Museum of Illinois • Child’s Play Photography • Citizens Barnes Building • Clayton Sales • Coffee Connection • Cohn Furniture • Collect Them • Comfort Inn • Coney McKane’s • Coney’s Cookies • Corona’s • Country Inn & Suites • Coziahr Harley Davidson • Culver’s • Curly’s Bar • Dale’s Southlake Pharmacy • Days Inn • Debbie’s Diner • Decatur Animal Clinic • Decatur Area Convention & Visitors Bureau • Decatur Athletic Club • Decatur Back & Neck Center • Decatur Beach House • Decatur Civic Center • Decatur Conference Center & Hotel • Decatur Dental Care • Decatur Jewelry & Pawn • Decatur Jewelry & Pawn II • Decatur Memorial Hospital • Decatur Mutual Insurance • Decatur Professional Plaza • Decatur Public Library • Decatur Surf Club • Decatur Title • DECU - North • Del’s Express • Diane’s Mane Strategy • Different by Design • Dippin’ Merv’s • DMH Express Care - Fairview • Doherty’s Pub & Pins • Donnie’s Homespun Pizza • Downtown Cafe • Downtown Fitness Club • Dragon Buffet • Dynagraphics/FastImpressions • Earthen Pottery • Embroidered Expressions • Exsalonce Studio & Day Spa • Famous Liquors • Filippo’s Pizza • First Presbyterian Church • First Wok • Fisherman’s Quarters • Fox & Hounds • Freedom Gas - Maroa • Fringe Salon • Fuji • G-B’s CD’s • Garcia’s Pizza • George’s Skate Center • Gerber State Bank • Giggles • Golden Glaze Donuts • Good Naber Specialty Foods • Goodfellas • Grace’s Dancewear • Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce • Greater Decatur Y • Guadalajara • Gyro King • Haines & Essick Co. • Hawthorne Suites by Wyndham • Holiday Inn Express • Homeward Bound Pet Shelter • Humane Society of Decatur and Macon Co. • IHOP • Il Forno • It’s a Girl Thing • It’s Just a Little Prick Tattoo Co. • Jan’s East End Grill • Katz • KC Hall • Krekels - Mt Zion • Krekels - North • Krekels - Oakland • Kroger - Airport Road • Kroger - Fairview • Kroger - South Shores • La Gondola • Lana’s Cakewalk • Land of Lincoln CU • Leo H. Berger Insurance • Linda’s Music • Lock Stock & Barrel • Love at First Sight • Lyle Campbell & Sons Realty • M3 Salon • Macon County Farm Bureau • Macon County Health Department • Macon Resources Main Building • Madden Arts Center • Main Hangar • Main Place Bar & Grill • Main Street Cafe - Maroa • Mari Mann Herbs Co. • Mary Belle’s • Maustell’s Pizza • McGorray’s Golf & Grille • McM Designs • Medical Supply Office • Melanie Schelling - State Farm • Merle Norman • Merry Maids • Mi Pueblito • Miles Chevrolet • Miles/Nissan • Millie & Bo’s Barkery • Millikin University/Kirkland • Monical’s - Forsyth • Monical’s - Mt Zion • Mt. Zion Chamber of Commerce • Mt. Zion Convention Center • Mt. Zion Library • Mt. Zion Village Hall • My Shipping Place • Mystic Tan • Neil Tire & Auto Service - Mt Zion • Neuhoff Media • Nola’s Hair Salon • Northgate Pet Clinic • Nova Framing/Gallery 510 • Novel Ideas • Old Book Barn • One Main Place • Oreana Public Library • Orthopaedic & Rehabilitation Specialists of Central IL • P&G Quickstop - Blue Mound • Paco’s Sol Bistro • Party Warehouse • Pastabilities • Perkins • Personal Medical Supply • Petals • Pho Golden Noodle Bowl • Pizza Hut - Mt Zion • Pla-Mor • Play it Again Sports • Pop’s Place • Porter’s on Merchant • Priceless Smiles/Styles & Smiles • Pride Coin Laundry - Eldorado • Pride Coin Laundry - North Main • Pride Coin Laundry - Mt. Zion • Ralph’s West End Market • Ramada Limited • Ray Eldridge Jewelry • Reflection Salon • Regions - Decatur Main • Regions - Northtown • Rendezvous Bar & Grill • Renew Total Wellness • Richland Community College • Richland - Fairview Park Plaza Center • Robbies Outlet • Rock Springs Nature Center • Roots Salon • Russ Proesel DDS • Salon 402 • Shear Learning • Signature Salon • Sleep Inn • Sloan’s Calzones • Smith Tire Co. • Sound Check Music Center • Soy Capital - North Main • Soy Capital - Pershing • Soy Capital - Rte 36 E • Spa Villa • Spare Time Lanes • Speed Lube - East Eldo • Speed Lube - Forsyth • Speed Lube - Grand • Speed Lube - Pershing • Speed Lube - South Shores • Speed Lube - West Eldorado • Speed Lube Total Care - East Eldo • Star Silkscreen • Studio 7 Salon & Day Spa • Subway - Oakwood • Sun & Fun • Swartz Properties • Tasty’s Chicago Grille - Eldorado • Temmen Advanced Eyecare • Texas Roadhouse • The Bullet Trap • The Decanter • The Decatur Club • The Decatur Indoor Sports Center • The Newsstand • The Secret Garden • The Teacher’s Lounge • The Wharf • The Winery • Timbuktu • Tournesol • Tri Manor Motel • Triple Dog Dare Ya • Tropix Salon and Spa • Unique Boutique • University Dogs • Up N’ Runnin’ • Veolia Environmental Services • Wabash Crossing Antiques • Whitestar Home Healthcare Services • Wild Dog Saloon • Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe • Zips Florist by the Gates
in this issue
05 11 December Events 18 28
14 on the cover You may not be ready for snow yet, but once we get 4" or more on the ground it'll be time to head out to Rock Springs Conservation Area for some oldfashioned, outdoor wintertainment-crosscountry skiing and snow shoeing.
BEHIND THE THRIVE
04
November: Out and About
05
SPOTLIGHT: Main Hangar's Comedy Hours
08
The Thrive Survey
09
The Food Dude: Avon Theatre Popcorn
10
11
Publisher's Pick of the Month
Art Speak: Ring in the Season with Local Music 12
28
December Events Calendar
18
Thrive Three Way: Enjoy Outdoors
33
Museum Guide
Have no fear! When the weather turns, we've still got plenty of things to do like visit a slew of local museums. Learn the ins and outs of each with our Guide to local museums.
issue #43 | december 2012 thrivedecatur.com | issuu.com/thrivedecatur
THRIVE
is created and printed locally, in Decatur, IL.
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december 2012 | 03
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GRI, R honda Wh ite, EALTO R®
Your fav a “click” orite Realtor is fan page away. “Like” my on faceb ook.
(217) 972 -8447
BEHIND THE
THRIVE
Time to confess a dirty little secret: I love winter. The cold, the snow, the crisp air, the snow, the skiing, the sledding, did I mention the snow? I love the season and all the frosty fun that accompanies it. Knowing that most aren’t as passionate (some say weird, crazy) about winter as I, we present our first Wintertainment issue. Dedicated to those who profess there’s nothing to do once the mercury drops, it’s homage to the Decatur area’s still robust offering of delights and distractions. Still raising a frosty eyebrow in disdain?
CONGRATS TO OUR NOVEMBER WINNER:
Jill Malloy
November Answers: 1. Hair color changed 2. More legs/feet appeared 3. Piano lid prop stick is missing 4. Isle is missing 5. Shadow is missing 6. Bass head scroll is backwards
Play the December Spot the Difference Challenge on p.35 04 | december 2012
How about our many museums? There are more than you think and great gobs of stuff to do. Or hit the trails for cross country skiing at Rock Springs. Share warm hearts and minds with big laughs at The Main Hangar’s Comedy Hour. Ring in the season with a lively live music docket you can’t beat. Pique your taste buds and tweak your traditions with The Avon’s patented pair of free holiday movies and finger lickin’ popcorn recipes (bacon flavor, anyone?). So read on for reams of ideas for icyfree fun, and while you’re reading, remember, this is just the tip of the iceberg (sorry, had to be done). Wintertainment Decatur style continues through the frigid months; you only have to flip through THRIVE’s pages to find it!
Out & About
A look back at last month’s happenings
Princess Tea and a Cinderella Matinee Cubed sugar wasn't the only thing sweet at Millikin's Richards Treat University Center November 11. The hall was filled with mannerly belles and beaus sipping tea from china and nibbling hors d'oeuvres. Characters entertained at lunch prior to their performance of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella at Kirkland Fine Arts Center. A musical procession led attendees from lunch to the matinee, truly a magical experience for young and old.
Photos: Robin Walters
december 2012 | 05
Out & About
A look back at last month’s happenings
Turkey Trottin'
The Decatur Park District picked the perfect day to host the Turkey Trot on November 17. Runners and walkers enjoyed the sunshine, prizes and lunch thanks to Robbie's Grille and The Wharf.
Light up the Night November 17 marked the 5th Annual Lights of Christmas Parade through Downtown Decatur. The parade, themed "My Christmas Wish," celebrated Jaycees' 80th year in the Decatur community and concluded with an invitation from Santa to visit him in Central Park this holiday season.
06 | december 2012
Homestead Holiday Looking for some winter cheer? Revive your holiday spirit through a visit to James Millikin Homestead for a dose of beautiful holiday decorations, accessories and gift ideas from Shop On Main. A portion of event proceeds benefits the Homestead.
Photos: Kim Mangan
Table that Idea The 11th Annual Webster Cantrell Hall Tabletop Showcase was held at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Thursday, November 15. Tabletop displays were voted on by event-goers in categories including most original, most elegant, most likely to replicate and favorite overall.
december 2012 | 07
08
SPOTLIGHT
Laugh It Up
at the Main Hangar's Comedy Hours Looking for a lighthearted outing now that the weather’s getting colder and darker? Fly into The Main Hangar for Comedy Hour. “We had been brainstorming on what we could do to separate ourselves from others,” says Chris Cooper, The Main Hangar Manager. “We came up with a few different ideas and sent out a survey to our customers. Comedy won.” Featuring nationally known comedians, these laugh-packed shows promise some great wintertainment. “We have been doing it since June 2012, and the response has been overwhelming,” says Chris. Looking ahead, the January lineup is stacked for fun. On January 11 and 12, check out Sonya White and Jamie Cruz in a show sponsored by Smoke E Bones Sticks and Snacks. Jamie is a Latino comedian known for his sketch comedy. He has been seen in films including The Lake House with Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves as well as The Breakup with Jennifer Aniston and Vince Vaughn. Jamie has worked with many well-known performers including Carlos Mencia and singer/ songwriter Jason Mraz. Sonya White serves up northern flavor with a southern accent. Seen on Comedy Central, E, HBO, CMT’s Country Fried Chicks and at clubs and festivals across the country, she delivers dead-on impersonations and key sound effects. Her comedy is based on real-life experiences and her fond but irreverent interactions with friends, family and the world at large.
by Joli Hohenstein
Then on January 25 and 26, catch Floyd J. Phillips and Kate Brindle, sponsored by Bud Light. Performing on stages throughout North America, Kate wants to know if you’ve heard the one about the female comic who doesn’t talk about her period, being fat or man bashing? She’s brought her sarcastic, spunky style to the Canadian Broadcast Channel, Cox Cable and Comcast Cable, plus festivals and comedy contests. And don’t miss Floyd J. Phillips (the “J” is for genius). This professional comedian and kidney transplant survivor apologizes for “nuthin’” and jokes about anything. He won the Seattle International Comedy Competition and was a finalist in the San Francisco Comedy Competition and the Boston Comedy Festival. Hitting stages across the country and even performing for our troops in Afghanistan, Floyd keeps audiences laughing. Be sure to book early. “Seating is limited; there will only be 100 tickets sold for each show,” says Chris. Seating is also first-come, first-served. “We strongly recommend making dinner reservations at 7:30 pm.”
Get There: Comedy Hour The Main Hangar Restaurant January 11-12 or January 25-26 (shows scheduled monthly) Located inside the Decatur Airport, 910 S. Airport Rd, Decatur. 421-7452 info@mainhangarrestaurant.com Tickets $10 pre-show, $12 day of show. Purchase by phone, on the web or at the restaurant. These shows are for mature audiences only (ages 21 and up). Visit web site for Comedy Hour schedule: http://mainhangarrestaurant.net
Joli Hohenstein is Editor and Senior Writer for THRIVE. She is an award-winning freelance writer, marketer, and editor. Get more Joli at jolihohenstein.com. 08 | december 2012
Sledding vs Skating It’s been quite a while since we’ve seen cold temperatures. How long has it been? For Groundhog’s Day, my daffodils saw their shadows. Since the brisk weather is here for a while, we need to embrace it. There’s plenty to do outside as long as you bundle up and find a good way to warm up when you get back inside. I grew up in an area rural enough that country back roads weren’t plowed in the winter. Which made them a great place to pull kids on sleds behind an Olds 88. Don’t ask me how I know this.
Would you rather get your wintertainment sledding or ice skating? Sledding 65% Skating 35% We left skiing off the choices because in the Soy City you’re talking about cross country skiing, and it’s a different kind of fun to lock your toe into your favorite set of Salomons and T glide through Fairview or Rock Springs Park. (You can read it about on page 14.) december 2012 | 09
10
THE FOOD DUDE
What Goes Better with Popcorn? Bacon! Good Stuff's Popping up at The Avon The holidays have once again reared their joyful heads and have put your Food Dude in the same pickle he’s in every year. Finding the perfect gift for Mrs. Dude? Nope! Could it be finding places to hide gifts from the little food dudes and dudettes? Not a chance! So what is it, you might ask? Finding something for the whole family to do once the mounds of presents are unwrapped and the mountains of food are consumed, that’s what! And this Dude can’t think of a better thing to occupy his brood with than a great movie at the historic Avon Theater. The thing that makes The Avon great (other than the awesome movies) is the popcorn. Now, I know what you’re thinking. You’re saying, “Hey, popcorn is popcorn. I can get that at any movie theatre.” But not this popcorn you can’t. No, my friends, there’s no other theater around that does it like the Avon does. What makes The Avon’s popcorn so irresistible is one thing: Butter. That’s right, real, honest-togoodness butter. If you’ve never had popcorn like this, then you’ve never really lived. But that’s not all.
by T. F. DUDE
A Dude cannot live by buttered popcorn alone. The Avon has flavors that appeal to everyone, like cheddar cheese, caramel and white cheddar. Or, try my personal favorite, Avon Style, which mixes cheddar, caramel and butter into one convenient bag for you to munch on. If you thought that’s it, well, hold on to your buckets; there’s more coming your way! Not only do they offer those great flavors, they also have gourmet flavors, too. Before Skip and his wife Sue owned The Avon, they had a popcorn business where they came up with all kinds of awesome flavors, and many of those can now be found at The Avon. You’ve got to try their holiday flavors, like red cinnamon and vanilla or chocolate, caramel, and toffee mixed. They even have cookies and cream from time to time, with real Oreo cookies mixed in! Just when you think there’s nothing else that they could possibly do with popcorn, they hit you with what could possibly be the greatest snack food this Dude has ever eaten: bacon popcorn. Words cannot express how good this really is. You’ve got fresh, crunchy, buttery popcorn with a hint of garlic and, brace yourself, real bacon! It’s truly like nothing I’ve ever had. Another new addition is the cinnamon toast popcorn, which is covered in butter and cinnamon sugar. That one is at the top of my list to try next time. Keep your eye out on The Avon web site (www. theavon.com) because every year at this time, they offer a selection of free Christmas movies. The schedule’s kept close to the (red with white fur trim) vest, so it wasn’t public at press time but it’s bound to be coming down the Milky Way any time. Put that with your popcorn!
The Food Dude is not a professional critic. He just really, really likes food. 10 | december 2012
Publisher's
Pick of the Month Just a little something we ran across and wanted to share.
4335 W. Main Decatur,Illinois
Every Friday: Catfish,Cod and Walleye
December Entertainment Award-winning band: Blues Expressions
Saturday, December 1: 9p-1a
Mobile Soundz Karaoke
Every Thursday Feat. Troy Hayes: 9p-1a
CUPCAKES 75¢ - $3.50 ea.
from The Sweet Life Bakery
photos: Kat Smalley
I had my first taste of "the sweet life" at Corks & Forks this year and now again at the seasonal shop The Sweet Life Bakery has set up at 101 East Main Street in downtown Decatur. You'll find them there (at the south end of Merchant Street) until Christmas Eve and then they're back to order-only business as usual out of their home base South of town. Hostess, who? What more do you need when you've got the Sweet Life Bakery right here in Decatur! december 2012 | 11
12
ART SPEAK
by Jerry Johnson
Have a Holly Jolly Dreaming of a Blue Christmas Down in History
Ring in the season on the local music scene Nothing gets me into the holiday spirit more than a healthy dose of Christmas music. Whether it’s the solitary ringing of a Salvation Army bell or Mannheim Steamroller tearing through “Carol of the Bells,” I just can’t get enough.
Across town, the First Church of the Nazarene hosts two concerts featuring “A Christmas Celebration” with Rachel West Kramer, Central Illinois favorite Jairo Arvizu, and bagpiper Ben Shirley at 1 pm and 7 pm.
Lots of people complain about how early radio stations start playing Christmas music, but for me it’s never soon enough. I begin searching for new holiday tunes in October, lining up the albums or songs I want to add to my collection even before they’re released in early November. There’s always something new regardless of genre: traditional, pop, rock, country, blues, whatever. Some of the new holiday albums issued in 2012 come from classic rock crooner Rod Stewart, pop singer Colbie Caillat and American Idol country singer Scotty McCreery. I’m sure to give them a listen to see if they’re worthy of adding to my Christmas iPod playlist.
It’s not just amazing voices that will fill the air this holiday season. The following weekend, the Decatur Youth Symphony Orchestra will present “A Christmas Showcase” on Sunday, December 9, at 3 pm at Warrensburg-Latham High School.
I also like to share the joy of the music of the season with my friends and family, and there’s no better way to do that than to hear it at a live performance. The Decatur holiday music scene kicks off big time on Saturday, December 1, with several events. You can take your own music or borrow a score at the door and participate in the community SingAlong "Messiah" at Westminster Presbyterian Church at 5 pm. Join in the Christmas portion of Handel’s “Messiah” accompanied by a chamber orchestra. Across the street at Millikin University’s Kirkland Fine Arts Center, let the beautiful voices of the 54th annual Vespers celebration wash over you at 3 pm and 7 pm on December 1 and 2.
First Baptist Church is offering a series of performances, including “Music for a Season of Joy” with Organist Mark Gifford on Wednesday, December 5, at noon; Carillon Bell Choir of First Baptist Church on Wednesday, December 12, at noon; and the Millikin Faculty Brass Quintet on Wednesday, December 19, at noon. And don’t let Christmas arrive without first having a blast with one of my favorite local Christmas music traditions, the Decatur Big Band Christmas Show at Lock, Stock & Barrel on Saturday, December 15, at 3:30 pm. Music has always played a big part in stirring up the magic of the season for me. Each year, I look forward to hearing the reverent tones of “Silent Night,” the melancholy yearning of “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” and the raucous joy of “Jingle Bell Rock.” It invites me to remember the warm feelings of Christmases past and encourages me to make merry in this Christmas present. So, find yourself a room filled with music, family and friends, and have a very merry Christmas.
Jerry Johnson is the Executive Director of the Decatur Area Arts Council and may be spotted pretty much anywhere art is happening. 12 | december 2012
Drink of the Month DECEMBER
Candy Cane Martini Vanilla Vodka Godiva速 Chocolate Liqueur Peppermint Schnapps Cream Rimmed with Candy Cane Crunch Garnished with Peppermint Ice Cream and a Candy Cane
Tu-Th 4-11p, Fr-Sa 4p-2a 112 Merchant St. | 217.330.7802 december 2012 | 13
HIT THE TRAILS FOR FROSTY FUN Cross country skiing at Rock Springs By Troy Hayes
14 | december 2012
There are lots of ways to get in a workout inside during the cold, glum winter months: gyms, your basement, even just trudging up and down the stairs of your house. But why not go outside and ski? Nothing inside could be as fun as cross-country skiing through the Rock Springs Conservation Area. It’s easy, affordable and incredibly entertaining. And don’t even worry about your fear of falling. “We’ve all grown up seeing the ‘agony of defeat’ skiing accident; obviously cross country skiing is not like that,” says Program Services Director Jeff Tish. “It’s just a beautiful way to get outside, enjoy nature and get some exercise. And we all need to do a little more of that.”
The beauty of cross-country skiing is that anyone of any skill level can enjoy the snow. Rock Springs has more than 100 packages of skis, boots and poles for rent, and the price is right at $8 for two hours and $2 for each additional hour. You can even rent the package for 24 hours if you’d like to ski somewhere else. Mastering the art of cross-country skiing could be daunting for some, but newcomers adapt quickly to propelling themselves. “It couldn’t have been easier, once you let the snow kind of work for you,” says Sue Leffler, who tried cross-country skiing on a whim a year ago. “It was really, really fun and an incredible workout. We were out for more than an hour, and it didn’t seem like it at all.” december 2012 | 15
FROSTY FUN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 Tish says the motion for success in skiing across flat land is a shuffle of sorts, and staff will teach you with a one-hour workshop that includes another hour of rental for $12.
less medication,” says Tish, who added that they have an everyday participant (when weather allows) who is 85 years old. “Skiing at Rock Springs is a great place to bring the kids, not to mention the whole family, for an outing. It’s about “You sway your arms as you would while the same price as a movie, and you’re walking, but you obviously don’t pick up not eating popcorn along the way.” your feet. That seems to be the toughest thing to overcome when someone is Skiing isn’t the only activity the Macon learning,” he says. “It’s more sliding your County Conservation District provides. feet and letting the snow glide you There’s snow shoe rental, as well. Snow along. Once you have it, it’s very easy.” shoeing is another great way to check out the countryside firsthand, with a In fact, it’s so easy that Rock Springs has heavy snowfall, of course. A foot of snow ski packages to fit anyone from three is perfect for both endeavors, but skiing years old and up, and the Center would can be done with a minimum of four love to see more kids enjoying the inches. activity. Hiking in the deep snow allows for “It’s known that kids that play, and I investigation of wildlife not easily done mean play, p-l-a-y, outside do better without the clean canvas. in school. They are healthier and on
Get Stronger, Live Healthier, Play Longer
DISC OPEN HOUSE Thursday, January 3 • 4 - 7 p.m. The professionals at the DISC can help you achieve your fitness goals! Stop by the Open House on January 3 to save 10 – 50% on all full facility annual passes. Demos, health screenings, and a chance to win a free membership!
1295 W. Wood • 217-429-DISC • www.decatur-parks.org • Find us on Facebook!
16 | december 2012
Designated trails are available based on snow conditions to ski or snow shoe through the prairies and woodlands. Wild animal tracks, winter wildlife and beautiful scenery will complement your outing as you experience a Central Illinois winter. “Winter walks here are a terrific way to view nature and evidence of all kinds of wildlife,” Tish says. “You’ll see tracks of birds and deer and may even see wing marks from where a hawk dove and picked up a mouse.” If you’re just looking for a great place to race down a hill on a sled, the Griswold Conservation Area near Blue Mound has a glacier kame left over from the remnants of Cenozoic Era glaciers more than 175,000 year ago. The hill provides
a wonderful view of the surrounding areas and also provides a thrilling chance to race down a long trek. Before leaving for Rock Springs to ski or snow shoe, you can check the web site at maconcountyconservation.org for snow conditions so you don’t waste a trip. Once there, trails are marked, and parking is nearby the Rock Springs Nature Center that houses the rental equipment. “We provide nearly everything that you need to have a great outdoors adventure,” Tish says. “Maps, skis, boots, poles and the trails to navigate. You just need to provide the energy and enthusiasm. It’s a wonderful way to spend some time.”
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december 2012 | 17
December Events EVERY DAY
Barn Colony Art Show Discover portraits, nature scenes, flowers, wildlife and a few surprises that you will find very appealing. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing] Delores Rice Logue The artwork of Delores captures the beauty of trees, barns, nature landscapes, and memories that visitors will enjoy rediscovering. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln] Art Exhibit Ann Higgens. Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe [256 W Main, wildflourartisanbakery.com] Art Exhibit Jessica Stricklin Disbrow. Gallery 510 [160 E Main, Suite 100, 422.1509, gallery510.org] Art Exhibit Sue Watts, Decatur Airport [910 Airport Rd] Art Exhibit Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin]
EVERY MONDAY
Preschool Soccer (thru 12.10) Interactive class for 3- and 4-year-olds, accompanied by an adult. Kids learn the basic fundamentals of soccer and work on motor skills, coordination and teamwork. $40, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 5-5:30p
18 | december 2012
Youth Indoor Soccer (thru 12.10) Participants learn passing, dribbling, and team play during 30-minute training sessions, followed by 20-minute games. $49, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] Varies Adult Indoor Soccer (thru 12.17) 7-week, friendly open play session. $6, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 9-10p
EVERY TUESDAY
Story Time (thru 12.11) For 3-5 year-olds. Story time includes stories, snacks, and a craft. Barclay Library [220 S Main, Warrensburg] 10:30a Chess Club Doherty's Pub & Pins [242 E William St, www. decaturchessclub.com] 6-10p Men's & Women's 3:3 Basketball Leagues (thru 12.11) Teams of up to 5 players will play 2 games per night, with tournament play on the last evening. $110/team, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 6-10p Stevie Ray Kelton Lincoln Square Lounge [121 N Main] 7:30p-12a
EVERY TUESDAYTHURSDAY
Indoor Track & Field Club (begins 12.11) The Staley Striders Indoor Track & Field Club helps athletes ages 7-14 focus on skill mastery within a positive atmosphere. $46-55, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 4-5p
EVERY TUESDAYSATURDAY
Homestead Holiday (thru 12.15) Partnership of Shop On Main and the James Millikin Homestead. Come in and look around and shop for fashion and Christmas trees, ornaments and more! James Millikin Homestead [125 N Pine, 233.3391] 12-5p (Tu-Fr), 12-4p (Sa)
EVERY WEDNESDAY Coffee Club Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, 672.3621] 9:30a
Singles' Night Meet other singles and play golf at the same time. $10 (golf ), McGorray's Golf & Grille [2927 N Water] 7-9p Open Mic Night Donnie's Homespun Pizza, [126 S Oakland, 424.4344] 9p-12a Karaoke & Water Pong Lock Stock & Barrel, 10p Mobile Soundz Karaoke Featuring Troy Hayes. Woody's Bar [1190 W South Side Dr] 9p-1a
EVERY WEDNESDAYSATURDAY Docta LD DJ/Karaoke Curly’s Bar & Pizza [2683 N Water, 875.9800] 9p-2a
Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!
EVERY THURSDAY
High School & Adult Indoor Rec Soccer League (thru 12.17) The MidState recreational soccer leagues are designed for players who prefer casual matches rather than those that are intensely competitive. Games are 6 v 6. DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] Time TBD Stevie Ray Kelton Timbuktu, 9p-1a Mobile Soundz Karaoke Featuring Troy Hayes. Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 9p-1a DJ David Lee Lock Stock & Barrel, 10p-2a
EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY
Santa's House Central Park [Downtown Decatur] 4-7p (Fr), 10a-4p (Sa) Wine Tastings The Decanter Fine Wines [215 N Main, 422.9463] 4-7p (Fr), 1-6p (Sa)
EVERY SATURDAY
Super Saturday Recess Youth ages 4 - 11 will enjoy an active Saturday morning at the DISC with activities including an open gym with inflatables, scooters, basketball, tumbling and more! $3.50, DISC [1295 W Wood, www.decatur-parks. org, 429.3472] 10a-12p
Indoor Soccer Leagues (thru 12.15) Soccer players aged 7 - 13 can extend their season with a 7-week indoor soccer league at the DISC! Teams play two 24-minute halves each weekend, with 7 players and a goalie. $52. DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] TBD
and other Greek favorites, homemade by the ladies of the church. Greek Orthodox Church of Annunciation [570 N Union, 428.9030] 9a-1p
EVERY SUNDAY
Animal Crackers: Merry Fishmas Children ages 3-5 can listen to a story, meet an animal, create a craft with their adult guests and snack on animal crackers! $9-10, Scovill Zoo Educational Center [71 S Country Club Rd, www.decatur-parks.org, 421.7435] 9:30-10:15a & 1111:45a
Free Pool Rusty Spur Saloon [4380 W Main, 423.3056]
Saturday, 1
Brought to Light Art Exhibit Over 30 Lighted Paintings of Decatur landmarks, businesses and homes along with rare photographs depicting Decatur over 100 years ago. Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin] Breakfast with Santa Enjoy breakfast with Santa & Mrs. Claus and make a holiday craft! Must pre-pay/ register (only 80 spots). $7-10, Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, www. cmofil.org, 423.5437] 8:30-10a Holiday Cookie Walk A large assortment of homemade cookies and candies are available. $4/lb, Barclay Library [220 S Main, Warrensburg, barclay.lib.il.us] 9a-12p Christmas Bake Sale Items for sale include Baklava, Cheesecake Baklava, Spanakopita (spinach pie), Pastitcho (Greek lasagna),
Annual Cookie Walk & Bazaar First United Methodist [222 N Hanover, Moweaqua] 9a-2:30p
Gingerbread Workshop Join us for our version of this holiday tradition - without the baking! Must pre-pay/ register (only 18 houses). $15-20, Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, www.cmofil.org, 423.5437] 10-11:30a Santa is Coming to Town! Bring your cameras for a photo-op. Blue Mound Memorial Library [213 N St Marie, Blue Mound, www. bluemoundlibrary.lib.il.us, 692.2774] 10a-12p
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December Events Christmas Bazaar Bake sale & cookie walk (includes breads, cakes, candy, pies, cookies). Silent Auction. Margaret's Corner (gently used items for sale). Lunch (ham & beans, corn bread, applesauce & drink OR hotdog, chips, applesauce, & drink) $4-5 (lunch), United Methodist Church [210 E Ruehl, Forsyth] 10a-2p, 11a-1p (lunch) Christmas Parade Mt Zion [mtzion.com] 10a Preschool Peepers - Feed the Birds Tweet, Tweet! Birds love to eat! Come join us and create a tasty treat for the birds with a pinecone! Ages 3-5. $1, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org] 10a Holiday Open House Participating merchants include Earthen Pottery, Lockhart's Barber Shop, Smith Hearing Aids, and Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe. West Main Village [200 Block West Main] 12-4p Perform! Wizard of Oz Auditions Grades 1-12. Pre-register by 11.29. $110-140, Poage Arts & Recreation Center [2020 N Oakland, www.decatur-parks. org, 422.5911] 1p-4p Community Game Day Family-friendly group playing board, card, and role-playing games. Games available or bring your own. Salvation Army [229 W Main, www. decaturgamers.com] 1p
20 | december 2012
Gingerbread Cookie Decorating Reservations encouraged. $1/cookie, Wildflour Artisan Bakery & CafÊ [256 W Main, 422.3300] 2-3:30p Into the Wild - Being Green? It's Easy! Handmade holiday gifts are affordable, functional, and better for the environment. Families of all ages are invited to enjoy this workshop of green holiday gift making. Discover ways you can live greener and save money, too. Reservations required. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org] 2p Diversity Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland, 429.7411] 3:30-5:30p Messiah Sing Along Sing Handel's "Messiah" with VOCASPHERE, conducted by Michael Engelhardt. Bring your own music or borrow a score at the door. Reception with appetizers and refreshments following. $8, Westminster Presbyterian Church [1360 W Main, millikin. edu, 424.6318] 5-6:15p Barb Wall's Holiday Extravaganza A full course holiday extravaganza is in store for you featuring a menu that is sure to inspire. Join us for this incredibly succulent meal. Don’t forget you get the recipes, too! $39, Mari-Mann Herb Farm [1405 Mari Mann Lane, www.mari-mann.com] 6-9p
A Christmas Celebration Rachel West Kramer, Jairo Arvizu, Ben Shirley, & Maria Kramer. $6-12, First Nazarene [1177 W Hickory Point Rd] 7p Devon Clemons Band & Michael Ray Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland, 429.7411] 9p-1a Blues Expression No cover. Award-winning blues band. Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 9p-1a Ultraviolet AIW Hall [2882 N Dineen] 9p Outlaw DJ Rusty Spur Saloon [4380 W Main, 422.3056] 9p Coco Butter Kids & Bent Pluckin' String Band They play cigar box guitar and washboard. They have a shoot 'em up and drink 'em down kind of sound. Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland, 424.4344] 9:30p-12a
12.1-12.2
Christmas Vespers MU: Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main, millikin.edu, 424.6318] 3p & 7p A Christmas Carol $7 adult, $5 children, Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, www. midsummermoonproduc tions.com, 468.2658] 2p (Sa & Su) & 7p (Sa)
Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!
12.1-12.28
Xmas ARTicles Unique holiday shopping! Affordable, original art and fine crafts by over 50 artists! This shop includes jewelry, purses, woodworking, baskets, knitted wearables, paintings, photography, ceramics, custom soaps, walking sticks, ornaments and more. Madden Arts Center [125 N Water, 423.3189, www. decaturarts.org] 8:30-4:30 (Mo-Fr), 8:30-7p (Th), 10a-4p (Sa)
Sunday, 2
Spaghetti Dinner Special Olympics. St John's Lutheran [Fellowship Hall, www.soill.org] 11a Winter Fun-Guy How can fungi be fun? Discover the beauty of fungi like mushrooms during a hike in the woods. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org] 2p New Creation Trio Love Offering, West Decatur Church of God [4500 W Main] 6p
Monday, 3
Jazz Combos Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland, millikin.edu] 6p Los Gringos Del Corn, ARS (American Roots Songs), Millikin Big Bluegrass Band Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland] 9p-2a
Tuesday, 4
Library Holiday Open House Join us for our annual holiday open house. Live music-The Pondelick Trio! Refreshments will be served! Everyone welcome! DPL: Lobby [130 N Franklin] 11a-2p Millikin Children's Choir Concert MU: Kaeuper Hall [1184 W Main, millikin.edu] 5:30p
Wednesday, 5
Greater Decatur Chamber Business Breakfast DLI Presentations. The Decatur Club [158 W Prairie, www. decaturchamber.com] 7-8a Simplify the Holidays Hands on Holiday Workshop. Creating, eating, and decorating our way through the "Top Ten Tips to Get into the Holiday Spirit!" UofI Extension [3351 N President Howard Brown Blvd] 9a & 6p
Christmas Walk Free, Downtown Decatur [christmasindecatur.org] 4:30-8p Xmas ARTicles Special shopping night during downtown Christmas Walk with live music and holiday treats! Madden Arts Center [125 N Water, decaturarts.org, 423.3189] 15-8p Artist Reception: Jessica Disbrow Gallery 510 [160 E Main, gallery510.org, 422.1509] 5:30p
12.5-12.9
Wednesday Book Club We get the books and you read them! To register contact the library. Barclay Library [220 S Main, Warrensburg, barclay. lib.il.us, 672.3621] 10:30a Music for a Season of JOY Concert at 12p, Lunch at 11:15a & 12:30p. Organist Mark Gifford. First Baptist Church [1320 Arbor Dr] 11:15a-1p
Books Between Bites "The Little Prince" by Antoine de Saint-Exupery. DPL: Madden Auditorium [130 N Franklin] 12:15p
Macbeth Shakespeare's darkest tragedy takes us into the decaying mind of Scotland's noblest warrior. There is no safe haven as danger lurks behind every corner in this raw production of Shakespeare's classic. $1012, MU: Albert Taylor Theatre [1184 W Main, millikin.edu, 424.6318] 7:30 (We-Sa), 2p (Su)
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December Events 12.5-2.1
Faculty Biennial Exhibition Open to the public, free. Perkinson Gallery [MU, 1184 W Main] 12-5p (Mo-Fr)
Thursday, 6
Art Bazaar & Celebration Juried Art Sale, portfolio reviews, gallery exhibit, on stage performances, student presentations. Richland Community College [One College Park, 875.7200] 10a-3p Ees'aBella BellyDance Richland Community College [One College Park] 11a-2p Lego Club Sign up for this great afterschool activity and be sure to bring your own Legos! Mt Zion District Library [115 W Main, Mt Zion, www.mtzion. lib.il.us] 4:30-5:30p Cookie Swap & Wrap Party Decatur IL Moms event. This party is designed to give you time to 'wrap up' your holiday projects and enjoy a cookie exchange. Ideas to work on: Christmas cards, holiday craft projects, wrapping your Christmas presents, etc. RSVP on Facebook. DMH: Classroom C [3131 N Water] 7-10p Matt Carter Band Dinner reservations are highly recommended; the house is always packed for band nights! Paco's Sol Bistro [237 N Main, 330.6483] 7:30-10:30p
Friday, 7
Steinway & Sons Piano Presentation Join Susan Lutz, owner of the Springfield Steinway Gallery, for a presentation on superb pianos. Open to the public. MU: Kaeuper Hall [1184 W Main, 358.0860] 10a 22 | december 2012
Cocoa & Cookies with Santa Enjoy hot cocoa and cookies with Santa and also make a holiday craft! Must pre-pay/ register (only 80 spots). $7-10, Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, www. cmofil.org, 423.5437] 6-8p Mt Zion Chamber Christmas Party Mt Zion Lions' Club [1595 W Main, Mt Zion, www. mtzionchamber.org] 6p Winter Concert University Band & Symphonic Wind Ensemble. MU: Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main, millikin.edu] 7:30p Whoopee Cats Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland, 429.7411] 8p-12a Retrospect Sliderz Bar & Grille [5995 U.S. 36] 9p-1a Nerd Noize Free, Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland, 424.4344] 9p-2a Anger Management AIW Hall [2882 N Dineen] 9p Greg Bickers Rusty Spur Saloon [4380 W Main, 422.3056] 9p DJ Slacker Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland, 424.4344] 9:30p-12a
12.7-12.9
Nutcracker Ballet $10, Richland Community College [Shilling Auditorium, 875.7211x6170] 7p (Fr&Sa), 2:30p (Su)
Saturday, 8
Breakfast with Santa Come have pancakes and sausage with Santa! Kids get your picture taken with Santa! $6 (adult), $3 (child). Free (child under 5), Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Church [400 N Whitetail Cir, Mt Zion] 7-11a Santa Flyin' In Santa will fly in from the North Pole to read a story, hear children’s Christmas wishes, and hand out goodies, including trading cards featuring the Airport’s amazing fire truck and snowplow! A breakfast buffet is included. $6.99 (adult), $2.99 (child 4-10), free (3 and under), Main Hangar Restaurant [910 S Airport Rd, www.decaturparks.org, 421.7452] 9-11a Second Saturday Book Sale Looking for a hidden gem or a favorite movie? Check out the Friends of the Library Second Saturday Used Book Sale. DPL: Book Sale Room [130 N Franklin] 9:30a-12:30p Christmas Keepsake Activity Children ages 3-5. Get into the holiday spirit as we make a special Christmas keepsake, decorate cookies, and share our wish lists with the Jolly Ol' Elf himself! $7-10, DISC [1295 W Wood, www.decatur-parks. org, 429.3472] 10-10:45a
Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!
The Tastes & Scents of Christmas Join Mindy Peterson-Lindsey for a morning of cheerful delight, laughter, great recipes and cost-saving decorating ideas. Register by 12.5. Mt Zion District Library [115 W Main, Mt Zion, www.mtzion. lib.il.us] 10a-12p Goodie Walk All proceeds help the library. Blue Mound Memorial Library [213 N St Marie, Blue Mound, www.bluemoundlibrary.lib. il.us, 692.2774] 10a-1p Dulcimer Club Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org] 10a Pictures with Santa Coziahr H-D® [150 W Marion, Forsyth, www.coziahrhd.com] 11a-2p Saturday Book Club We get the books and you read them! To register contact the library. Barclay Library [220 S Main, Warrensburg, barclay. lib.il.us, 672.3621] 11a Odd Fellows Frosty 5K All you can eat/drink & trophies. Registration form on web. $10, Odd Fellow Lodge [401 W Main, Mt Zion, mtzionoddfellows.org, 519.1528] 11a
23rd Annual Christmas High Tea A full English High Tea will be served with over 20 items. Included are sweets, treats, and tea sandwiches of all sorts. Bring your favorite doll & remember the camera. $22, Mari-Mann Herb Farm [1405 Mari Mann Lane, www.marimann.com] 12-2p
Jazz Band II & OneVoice Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland, millikin.edu] 3:30p 18th Annual Essie Lee Travis Scholarship Tea Donations Accepted, Antioch Missionary Baptist Church [530 W Mound, 422.2698] 4-6p Millikin Children's Choir & Youth Chorale First Lutheran Church [250 W Decatur, millikin.edu] 4p
PJ Party with Santa Bring your favorite pillow, wear your PJ’s, and visit with Santa while you make an ornament, eat yummy cookies, and see how the animals prepare for winter. $10-12, Scovill Zoo [71 S Country Club Rd, www. decatur-parks.org, 421.7435] 1-3p & 5-7p
Twas the Night Before Christmas The Dance Centre's 5th annual Christmas dance charity performance. Profits donated to the Salvation Army Angel Tree. $7, Decatur Masonic Temple [224 W William, 877.8876] 5p & 7:30p
Christmas Gala 2012: Drummer Boy Exodus Arts presents… Drummer Boy. A full length ballet with Parallel Ballet Theatre. Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, www.exodus-arts.com, 972.5696] 1p & 7p Skulls, Teeth & Beaks Are your teeth different from your dogs’ teeth? Do you know why? We will explore the life of animals and find out what they eat by looking at their skulls, teeth, and beaks. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org] 2p
Christmas in the Village Chili supper with all the trimmings & Santa will be present, Dalton City Firehouse (5-7p). Celebration of the Birth of Jesus Christ Nativity display. Prizes, songs, Christmas carols. Dalton City United Methodist Church (opens at 5p, carols at 7p) [Dalton City] 5p
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December Events GLAD Social Fellowship, Potluck 7p followed by program [TBD, www.gladdecatur.com] 6:30p
Ivan Parker Call for Tickets. Westminster Presbyterian Church [1360 W Main, 428.6603] 6:30p
Escaping Neverland Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland, 429.7411] 9p-1a
Monday, 10
Jurys Out AIW Hall [2882 N Dineen] 9p Thousand Yard Stare Rusty Spur Saloon [4380 W Main, 422.3056] 9p
Sunday, 9
Christmas Tea Enjoy an old-fashioned and elegant Christmas by touring the mansion, sipping hot tea, and enjoying the music, while learning a little bit about local history. Governor Oglesby Mansion [421 W William, oglesbymansion.org, 429.9422] 1-4p Bluegrass Music Jams Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org] 1-4p A Christmas Showcase Decatur Youth Symphony Orchestra. Free, W-L High School [Warrensburg] 3p Christmas CrossTalk Children's musical. Heartland Community Church: Worship Center [3253 N Brush College, 877.9529] 6p Winter Praise 2012 Finger foods and goodies for all to enjoy before the show as well. South Shores Christian Church [230 Bristol Dr] 6p
24 | december 2012
Jazz Combos Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland, millikin.edu] 6p Decatur Chordsmen Concert You'll be humming along, tapping your foot, and leave with a smile on your face! Open to the public. Free, DPL: Madden Auditorium [130 N Franklin] 7:30p Guitar Ensembles II & III MU: Kaeuper Hall [1184 W Main, millikin.edu] 7:30p
Thursday, 13
American Girl Club Reunite with Samantha and enjoy a special holiday club meeting to watch the movie "Samantha: an American Girl Holiday." Mt Zion District Library [115 W Main, Mt Zion, www.mtzion.lib.il.us] 4-5:30p Thursday "Bored" Game Night Family-friendly group playing board, card, and role-playing games. Games available or bring your own. Diamonds Family Restaurant [2959 N Oakland, www. decaturgamers.com] 5:30p
The Great Waltz Good Safari $3, free with MU ID, Donnie's Tuesday, 11 Homespun Pizza [126 S Culinary Arts Holiday Dinner Oakland, 424.4344] 9p $15, RCC: Shilling Community Education Center [One 12.13-12.15 College Park, 875.7211x740] Dog Sees God: Confessions Two seatings: 6p & 6:30p of a Teenage Blockhead When CB's dog dies from Wednesday, 12 rabies, CB begins to question Music for a Season of JOY the existence of an afterlife. Concert at 12p, lunch at But a chance meeting with an 11:15a & 12:30p. Carillon Bell artistic kid offers CB a peace Choir. First Baptist Church of mind and sets in motion [1320 Arbor Dr] 11:15a-1p a friendship that will push teen angst to the very limits. Mt Zion Chamber Luncheon $6 (MU Stu), $10 (Gen), Pipe Mary Belle's [170 Debby Dr, Mt Dreams Studio Theatre [1099 Zion, www.mtzionchamber. W Wood, www.pdtheatre. org] 11:30a com, 214.803.6808] 8p (Th-Sa), 2p (Sa) Annual Father Martin Mangan Lecture 12.13-12.16 This year's lecturer is Rev. Jim Santaland Diaries Montgomery of Decatur's A fun, irreverent one-man First Presbyterian Church. The comedy by David Sedaris lecture seeks to keep alive about an out-of-work actor the spirit of the social justice who decides to become a Fr. Mangan represented. DPL: Macy's elf. $10, RCC: Shilling Madden Auditorium [130 N Auditorium [One College Park, Franklin] 6:30p 875.7211x215] 7:30p (Th-Sa), 3p (Su)
Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!
Friday, 14
Latin Jazz Project Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland, millikin.edu] 5p Christmas in Concert Featuring John Stephens, Therese Kincade and the children's choir from Home For The Holidays, The Little Theatre’s new Holiday show that is a tribute to the USO and our troops. Ticket required, ticket pick up at the Reference Desk. Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin] 6:30p LHP Dinner reservations are highly recommended; the house is always packed for band nights! Paco's Sol Bistro [237 N Main, 330.6483] 8-11p Afternoon Moon $4, Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland] 9:30p-12a Full Circle Rusty Spur Saloon [4380 W Main, 422.3056] 9p
Saturday, 15
FIRST Lego League Competition 5 of the 12 teams will be Decatur Middle School teams from Hope Academy, Stephen Decatur Middle School, Johns Hill, Thomas Jefferson, Garfield. Hope Academy [955 N Illinois St, 855.4643] 9a-3p
Family Fun-Living in a Leaf Litter Who likes to live under the winter leaves on the ground? What roles do those piles of leaves play in nature? Join us to discover this and more on an investigative hike. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org] 1:30p Big Band Xmas Show Free, Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 3:30-5:30p Yuletide Favorites Decatur Chordsmen. Free, Westminster Presbyterian Church [1360 W Main] 7p Holiday Jazz Concert $10-20, MU: Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main, millikin. edu] 7:30p Lil Scrappy $25, Decatur Masonic Temple [224 W William] 8p-12a Winter Blues Extravaganza R&B Sensation "Love Doctor" with special performances by John Haley and Ms. Pat Brown. $22.50-25, Lincoln Square Theatre [141 N Main, lincolnsquaretheatre.com, 972.8606] 8p
Hodfather Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland] 9:30p-12a
12.15-12.16
Wine-ter Wonderland Long Creek Vineyards [7185 E Firehouse Rd, www. longcreekvineyards.com] 125p (Sa), 2-5p (Su)
Sunday, 16
Advent Services The MDSO chamber orchestra joins the musicians of Central Christian Church in services of the season. A Decatur Christmas tradition. Central Christian Church [650 W William] 8:15a & 10:45a Winter Solstice Hike Let’s go for a hike with a naturalist on the shortest day of the year. Learn about the rotation of the earth and why we have days that are longer and shorter. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org] 2p Throttle Junkies Bourbon Barrel [1355 Illinois 48 #7]
Tailgate & Frankie Ballard Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland, 429.7411] 9p-1a Ball n Chain Rusty Spur Saloon [4380 W Main, 422.3056] 9p-1a
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December Events Singles/Couples Dance The Artistics with Jim Easter. $10, KC Hall [520 E North, 875.3090] 5-8p
12.17-12.24
Santa in Central Park [Downtown Decatur] 4-7p (12.17-12.21), 10a-4p (12.2212.23), 10a-12p (12.24)
Wednesday, 19
Music for a Season of JOY Concert at 12p, Lunch at 11:15a & 12:30p. Millikin Brass Quintet. First Baptist Church [1320 Arbor Dr] 11:15a-1p Open Game Night Family-friendly group playing board, card, and role-playing games. Games available or bring your own. The Decatur Club [158 W Prairie, www. decaturgamers.com] 5p
Thursday, 20
Book Club "Tender at the Bone" by Ruth Reichl. DPL: Board Room [130 N Franklin] 1p Lego Club Sign up for this great afterschool activity and be sure to bring your own Legos! Mt Zion District Library [115 W Main, Mt Zion, www.mtzion. lib.il.us] 4:30-5:30p
Friday, 21
Acoustica Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland, 429.7411] 8 -11p DDT AIW Hall [2882 N Dineen] 9p XKrush Rusty Spur Saloon [4380 W Main, 422.3056] 9p
26 | december 2012
Pageant - The Black Neil Diamond Tribute $10-13, Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland, 424.4344] 9:30p -12a
Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org] 2p
Saturday, 22
Winter Break Day Camp When school is not in session, youth ages 5-12 can come to the DISC to enjoy rock climbing, volleyball, basketball, soccer, and great field trips! $32-37/day, DISC [1295 W Wood, www.decaturparks.org, 429.3472] 6:30a -6p
Dulcimer Club Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org] 10a Christmas Party with Super Kids' Club Games, puppets, prizes and an old fun movie! $5 (adult), Free (kids), Lincoln Square Theatre [141 N Main, lincolnsquaretheatre.com, 972.8606] 2-3:30p Jim Walker & Friends Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland, 429.7411] 3:30-5:30p Thousand Yard Stare Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland, 429.7411] 9p-12a Groove Avenue AIW Hall [2882 N Dineen] 9p LHP Rusty Spur Saloon [4380 W Main, 422.3056] 9p Matt Livasy $3, Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland, 424.4344] 9:30p -12a
Sunday, 23
19th Century Holiday Ornaments The young and young at heart are invited to join us as we explore holiday traditions from the past and even make a unique ornament to add to your own holiday traditions! $1,
12.26-12.28
Winter Break Baseball Camp Covers fundamentals of throwing, catching, fielding, pitching, hitting and base running. Batting cages and full gym will be used. Ages 8-16. Add $5 if registering after 12.9. $49-59, DISC [1295 W Wood, www.decatur-parks.org, 429.3472] 8-10a Winter Break Softball Camp Fundamentals of throwing, catching and fielding, as well as defensive positional work for infield and outfield, base running, hitting, and bunting covered. Pitchers enjoy a 45-minute training session each day. $49-59, DISC [1295 W Wood, www.decatur-parks. org, 429.3472] 1-4p
Thursday, 27
Jingle Bells Mini-Camp Children will enjoy celebrating the season as they learn about winter weather and winter traditions. Youngsters will also learn “Jingle Bells.� Ages 1- 4 must be accompanied by an adult. $10, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln] 9-10a (Ages 1-4), 1-2p (Ages 3&4)
Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!
Rapper "Chief Keef" Upcoming urban rapper from Chicago. Call for tickets & details. $35, Lincoln Square Theatre [141 N Main, lincolnsquaretheatre.com, 972.8606] 6:30p
Friday, 28
Nonfiction Book Club "Mosquito Empires" by J.R. McNeill. DPL: Board Room [130 N Franklin] 1p Soul Purpose Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland, soulpurposerocks. com] 8p-12a Escaping Neverland Dinner reservations are highly recommended; the house is always packed for band nights! Paco's Sol Bistro [237 N Main, 330.6483] 8:30-11:30p The Whoopee Cats AIW Hall [2882 N Dineen] 9p 90's Daughter Rusty Spur Saloon [4380 W Main, 422.3056] 9p
Saturday, 29
Holiday Relief Hike Breathe in, breathe out. Relax and give yourself a chance to break up those mid-holiday blues. A nice hike through the woods will brighten up the day. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org] 2p Dixie Daredevils Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland, 429.7411] 3:30-5:30p
Soul Purpose Sliderz Bar & Grille [5995 U.S. 36, soulpurposerocks.com] 4-7p
NYE Bash Soul Purpose. Decatur Conference Center & Hotel [4191 US 36 W] 8:30p-12:30a
Riverbottom Nightmare Band Rusty Spur Saloon [4380 W Main, 422.3056] 9p
LHP Special New Year's Eve show with the boys we all love... Reservations will be taken on a first come, first served basis. Paco's Sol Bistro [237 N Main, 330.6483] 9p-12:30a
Sunday, 30
In Touch with Nature We love to walk through nature and watch the beauty of the natural world around us, but we rarely experience it through our fingertips. This is a chance to use all 5 senses to truly feel the world around us. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org] 2p
Monday, 31
Happy Noon Year A special countdown to the New Year for the young and young at heart. Make a craft and enjoy the confetti shower. The ball drops at noon. See www.cmofil.org for details. Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, 423.5437] 10a-2p 2 miles to Miles 2K, 5K race. Begins and ends at DMH. $23, Decatur Family Y [220 W McKinley] 2p New Year's Eve Tribute Fest Tribute Bands Rockaway Beach, Angry Chair and AD/ HD. $12, Lincoln Square Theatre [141 N Main, lincolnsquaretheatre.com, 972.8606] 7p
Escaping Neverland AIW Hall [2882 N Dineen] 9p Greg Hahn New Year's Eve Comedy Show Joining Greg will be opening act Chris Schlicting. There is no better way to ring in the new year! $27.50, Decatur Conference Center & Hotel [4191 US 36 W, www. hoteldecatur.com] 9p C4 - New Year's Eve Bash Rusty Spur Saloon [4380 W Main, 422.3056] 9p One Big Party CORE Youth - 3:3 Basketball, gaming competitions, food & prizes all night long. Heartland Community Church: Underground Building [3253 N Brush College, 877.9529] 10p
Did you know? Listing your event with THRIVE is absolutely FREE! Send your info by the 15th to events@thrivedecatur.com december 2012 | 27
Mad, Fun Guide to Museums Decatur area’s faves and fun finds you won’t want to miss
Don’t let the winter doldrums get the best of your fun side. A nip in the air presents the perfect opportunity to nip into one of Decatur’s many museums for some enjoyment, education and entertainment. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry; no reason to work for it. To pique your interest, we present for your pleasure our easypeasy nice and breezy Museum Guide. You’ll find both fan favorites and hidden gems. Here’s fun at your fingertips!
MUSEUM NAME
What It's All About
Features
Special Events
Where It's At
Hours Here's how we have broken down our museum facts 28 | december 2012
Admission
African-American Cultural & Genealogical Society Of Illinois, Inc., Museum
Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum
Exhibits and artifacts about Africans and African-American history of the Central Illinois community as a whole and AfricanAmerican youth in particular.
Features a large collection of some of Detroit's finest American-made iron (and fiberglass). Chevrolet's hottest cars and memorabilia from the 1920s through today, from race cars and Indy pace cars to show cars.
Storytelling, black poetry, video presentations by appointment. Museum offers services to trace your family tree and learn about your ancestors and roots.
Celebration of Kwanzaa with Taste of Africa, speakers and entertainment December 29, 3 pm Decatur Public Library
314 N. Main Street Decatur 429-7458 aacgs@springnet1.com www.african-americancultural.org
Monday, Wednesday, Friday 1:30 pm-5 pm Saturday 2 pm-4 pm
Members FREE Adults $2 Students $1 Children under 13 $0.50
Home to one of the most famous race cars in NASCAR history - the legendary 1987 Chevrolet Wrangler Jeans #3 Monte Carlo Aero Coupe driven by the late Dale Earnhardt, Sr. Showcases multiple vintage authentic Winston Cup and Busch Grand National Stock Cars driven by the likes of Davey Allison, Darrel Waltrip, Neil Bonnett.
3635 US Route 36 East Decatur 888-9-BOWTIE chevrolethalloffamemuseum.com
Tuesday-Sunday 10 am-6 pm Saturday 9 am-5 pm
$7 adults $35 season pass Children under 12 free with adult
december 2012 | 29
Children's Museum of Illinois Hands-on and interactive, features two floors of activities and exhibits on people and cultures, the arts, physics/physical science, the ecosystem and health sciences that spark interest and excitement.
One of the top 25 children's museums in the country. Special exhibit "What's Bugging Belva?"; new Toddler Transportation Station; two-story climbing sculpture; Bubble Mania; Amazing Airways; interactive car and airplane; play emergency department; touch and feel science exhibits; child-size kitchen, grocery store, post office, pizzeria; train tables; shadow room and more.
Follow life-sized Buddy the Museum Elf and enter for prizes as he shares clues for a scavenger hunt during December. Cocoa & Cookies with Santa December 7, 6-8 pm $7 members, $10 non-members First Day of Winter December 21, 9:30 am Special craft for all visitors Happy Noon Year! December 31, 10 am-2 pm $1 members, $6 non-members
55 S. Country Club Rd., Decatur 423-5437, www.cmofil.com
Tuesday-Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm Saturday 10 am-5 pm Sunday 1-5 pm
Ages 2 and older $5, Members FREE Admission changes on special event days 30 | december 2012
Hieronymus Mueller Museum Discover the truth about Decatur's "unsung genius" and his enormous success around the world. Exhibits covering the history of the company, its owners and employees, and the Mueller family.
Inventions and artifacts from Mueller's business, including plumbing and water distribution items, fire hydrants and a restored Mueller-Benz automobile, plus exhibits and products from the company's more than 150year history. Including a look into the Decatur location, one of the country's largest brass foundries.
Special Exhibit through March Mikhail German Collection of Mueller Memorabilia & History
420 West Eldorado Street Decatur 423-6161 www.muellermuseum.org
Thursday, Friday, Saturday 1-4 pm (except holidays)
$2 adults Children under 17 $1.50
Macon County History Museum and Prairie Village Bringing history to life and keeping traditions alive by connecting visitors to both Macon County's and our country's past.
Macon County's only official Looking for Lincoln site. View exhibits on the county's history and the story of Lincoln's life in Macon County. See historic farm tools & equipment, railway info, cigar rolling, a prairie kitchen and a Victorian home. Tour the Prairie Village Complex, including the Lincoln Log Courthouse where Lincoln participated in cases, a 1860s one-room schoolhouse, an 1850s log house, other period buildings and a 1922 railroad caboose.
Open House, special Christmas exhibits and decorations, a tea for visitors, live music December 1, 1-4 pm
5580 North Fork Road Decatur 422-4919 www.mchsdecatur.org
Oglesby Mansion Historical mansion built by Richard J. Oglesby, a U.S. Senator, a Union General in the Civil War, a three-term governor of Illinois, and a close friend and colleague of Abraham Lincoln.
The house boasts an Italianate style exterior with the interior showcasing a winding walnut staircase, six fireplaces and a library that remains as it was built by the Oglesby family.
Annual Christmas Tea December 9, 1-4 pm
421 West William St. Decatur 429-9422 info@oglesbymansion.org www.oglesbymansion.org
Special tours for individuals and groups may be arranged for a fee. Call to schedule. Regular hours begin again in March.
A $2 donation per person is requested during regular hours. Tuesday through Saturday and every 4th Sunday 1-4 pm Closed Holidays
Adults $2, Children 12 and under $1 Every Wednesday children are free with paid adult (per child) december 2012 | 31
Rock Springs Nature Center The Ecocenter Prairie, Forest, River: The Natural Treasures of Macon County Museum
Bringing fun and fascination together with exhibits, hands-on learning, demonstrations and workshops on Macon County's natural history and wildlife.
Interactive exhibits with opportunities to see, feel, crayon rub and open doors and buttons to learn about Ilinois' prairies, forests and rivers; aquariums filled with native fish and amphibians from our streams, lakes and rivers; viewing stations for seasonal & migratory woodland birds; The Bluestem Theater with 3- to 20-minute movies on topics like nature and the outdoors and Abraham Lincoln in Macon County; art exhibits in three galleries.
The Birks Museum, Millikin University Decorative arts museum that stores and shares timeless works of art and craft.
China, porcelain, world class collection of hand-blown paperweights, vases, lamps, art glass, a brilliantly detailed Japanese bridal kimono, exquisite pieces of turn-of-the-century furniture by Emil Galle and Gustav Stickley, Chinese art objects collection of the late Mr. and Mrs. Guy Scovill.
Gorin Hall, 1184 West Main St. Millikin University Decatur 424-6337 www.millikin.edu/academics/cfa/Pages/ BirksMuseum.aspx
Celebration of Kwanzaa with Taste of Africa, speakers and entertainment December 29, 3 pm Decatur Public Library
1-4 pm weekdays during Millikin’s school year
3939 Nearing Lane Decatur 423-4913
Donations are welcome and necessary for the upkeep and improvement efforts of the museum.
Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm Sunday 1 pm-4:30 pm Closed New Year's Day, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas
FREE 32 | december 2012
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34 | december 2012
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