SPOT THE DIFFERENCE CHALLENGE: Giggles on Merchant
Entertainment Guide
Decatur IL Moms Deliver Resources to Cool Kids' Cabin Fever Winter Programs at the DISC Next of Kiln: More than a Macaroni Necklace Food Dude: Family Friendly Top Five
FREE
Show Kids the Arts
Jan 2013 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: Jenny Cowgill T. F. Dude Todd Hauser Troy Hayes Joli Hohenstein Kim Mangan Katrina Smalley Robin Walters
Photographers: Todd Hauser 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) and ECNO Group (Empowering Community Network Opportunities) for all your help with delivering THRIVE each month! 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 | january 2013
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 • Cafe Brio • 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
14
January Events
Decatur IL Moms
This local group focuses on keeping great resources on hand for stay-at-home and working moms alike so they can help keep children active.
28 Winter Programs at the DISC The Decatur Indoor Sports Center plays host to a variety of programs geared toward eliminating that cooped up feeling we all experience as the elements keep us indoors.
05 11 18 28
BEHIND THE THRIVE
04
December: Out and About
05
SPOTLIGHT: Next of Kiln
08
The Thrive Survey
09
The Food Dude: Family Friendly Top Five
10
Publisher's Pick of the Month
11
Art Speak: Show Kids the Arts
12
January Events Calendar
18
Visual Guide to Making Playdough
28
Thrive Three Way: Snow Days
33
issue #44 | januar y 2013 thrivedecatur.com | issuu.com/thrivedecatur
THRIVE
is created and printed locally, in Decatur, IL.
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Do You? Hand THRIVE to a friend or put it out in your bin!
THRIVE is printed using 10% Post Consumer Waste, SFI, FSC, Green-eCertified papers.
january 2013 | 03
Pe r fo r me d at Shillin g Audito r ium at Ric hland Co m m unity Co lle ge
BUY THEATRE 7 TICKETS!
A funny, yet very touching, comedy about the great American family road trip.
Jan. 18-20 & 25-27, 2013 Fri & Sat @ 7:30 pm - Sun @ 2 p.m.
BEHIND THE
THRIVE
The winter doldrums often hit the littlest among us the hardest.
CONGRATS TO OUR DECEMBER WINNER:
Kim Trump
Which is why we present our first issue dedicated to busting cabin fever! This issue is busting with kid- and parentfriendly entertainment ideas. What better place to start than a group totally dedicated to family fun? We tapped Decatur IL Moms for their top picks. Opportunities for activity abound at the DISC, so read on for their indoor sports extravaganza!
December Answers: 1. Tie is missing 2. Small books appeared 3. "THE" moved 4. Sock Monkey yellow band is smaller 5. Books appeared on shelf 6. Peg hole is gone
Play the January Spot the Difference Challenge on p.35 04 | january 2013
Keep the creativity flowing at Next of Kiln and the Decatur Area Arts Council, and feed the fervor with Food Dude's fabulous finds in family-friendly fare! Winter in Decatur means a blizzard of fun! Put cabin fever on ice!
Out & About
A look back at last month’s happenings
Christmas Walk
Downtown merchants kept the doors open until 8 pm during Decatur's annual Christmas Walk on December 5. Masses of shoppers enjoyed Christmas carolers strolling Merchant Street, free horse-drawn carriages and visits with Santa in Central Park, along with special treats and great offers from retailers throughout downtown Decatur.
january 2013 | 05
Out & About
A look back at last month’s happenings
Santaland Diaries
Jerry Johnson portrayed David, an out-of-work actor turned Macy's elf, in David Sedaris' comedy, Santaland Diaries, December 13-16. Part of the proceeds went to the Emerging Theatre Professional Scholarship.
Santa Flies in
BIG BAND Xmas Show
The Decatur Big Band performed an array of jazzed up Christmas music at Lock Stock & Barrel on Saturday, December 15.
Twas the Night Before Christmas The Dance Centre hosted its annual charity performance at the Masonic Temple on December 8. Proceeds from the event were donated to the Salvation Army Angel Tree.
Santa flew into the Decatur Airport on December 8, greeted by lots of children ready to tell him their Christmas wishes.
06 | january 2013
12-12-12 12K Fun Run
Shanna Saubert knew she would be home in Decatur for the last consecutive date of the century, so she asked her dad, Lysle Saubert, to find a race they could run together. When he couldn't find a race, he accidentally organized one. Approximately 90 people participated in the 12-12-12 12-kilometer fun run (no clock, no medals) starting at Fairview Park Pavilion 1. The whole Saubert family helped collect canned good donations and distribute t-shirts as well.
Xmas ARTicles Madden Arts Center offered its annual holiday shopping opportunity through December. Gifts ranged from jewelry and ornaments to woodworking and paintings, all created by local artists.
january 2013 | 07
08
SPOTLIGHT
by Joli Hohenstein
Next of Kiln
More than a Macaroni Necklace Looking for a way to break cabin fever and hit the double whammy of entertainment and education for the kiddos? Fire up the fun at Next of Kiln. Decatur’s very own open pottery studio provides a wealth of opportunities for kids of all ages to pick their pleasure: paint your own or take it to the next level with advanced art. “There are lots of opportunities for creativeness,” says owner Regina Rhodes. “The possibilities are endless.” Perhaps best known for the vast possibilities presented in the paint-yourown-pottery arena, Next of Kiln features thousands of possibilities for creativity with mugs, plates, banks, boxes, animals, ornaments and more. They provide all the tools, glazes and paints, then fire your masterpiece in the kiln to make it food safe and dishwasher safe. You pick it up a week later. Hit them up for open studio or schedule a birthday party or throw off the winter blues party. “No matter what project you choose to do, you pay only for the project—we provide everything,” says Regina. “So if all the kids want to do a $9 monkey, you pay $9 per kid—that’s it!” Beyond paint-your-own, the studio offers endless outlets for creativity through special classes, ladies' nights and workshops. Learn to throw pottery on one of their seven pottery wheels. Bring your newborn in for footprints or handprints. Express yourselves through stained glass,
clay, fused glass, sun catchers, mosaics, scrapbooking, metal snipping and more. “Our kids’ classes are well attended,” says Regina. “We just finished our holiday art camp and it sells out every year.” Past classes have included making clay ring holders, bird houses, painting pottery and much more. Classes are available for kids of all ages from early childhood to adults. Upcoming events include a clay project with the Children’s Museum of Illinois, and Regina will be Artist in Residence at Maroa-Forsyth for the second semester. “We do a lot of work with schools, Easter Seals, home schoolers, parents’ night out,” she says. “We’ve been able to go and teach thousands of kids about clay and kilns and art. So many schools don’t have art, and this is way more than a macaroni necklace.”
Get There: Next of Kiln 1515 State Highway 121, Mt. Zion 864-9300 rhodesfamily@comcast.net Open Studio: Tuesdays 12-6 pm, Wednesdays & Thursdays 12-8 pm, Fridays & Saturdays 12-6 pm Find them on Facebook for more information and a class schedule.
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 | january 2013
KINDERGARTEN vs EIGHTH GRADE Being a kid depends a lot on who you are. They just had another kid… Eating off the kid’s menu… Some kid who just got his driver’s license… So this month, we were curious about who these “kids” are. Do you think of wee little ones, finger painting and using the roundended scissors or pimply-faced teenagers with vitality and pheromones pumping at full speed? More importantly, where do you see yourself?
Would you return to kindergarten or eighth grade? Kindergarten - 59% Eighth Grade - 41% Frankly, both grades have challenges. I remember both as being socially awkward times, for different reasons, but maybe that says more about me. Eighth graders remembered “dating a high school kid and being super cool,” and someone whose basketball team won the Chicago city championship. But on the winning side, a respondent remembered kindergarten as a more “carefree time.” Overwhelmingly, people wanted to go to kindergarten for the naps. They also mentioned the snacks, too. Some recess would be nice, but mostly it was the naps. january 2013 | 09
10
THE FOOD DUDE
by T. F. DUDE
Family Friendly Top Five
Local digs that satisfy the little foodies If your family is anything like mine, figuring out where to take the family to eat a meal can be super stressful. Sure, it’s easy when it’s just you and your main squeeze, but throw in the kids, and that’s when a nice evening out can turn into a total nightmare. So, to help all of you (and make myself a cheat sheet for those times), your humble Food Dude has put together a quick top five places to grab a bite to eat as a family that not only can satisfy the little foodies but also can leave the grown ups (and their wallets) happy, too. Since it’s called the most important meal of the day, we’ll start with breakfast, and you can’t get a much better start than the breakfast at Diamonds Family Restaurant. While they have an extensive menu for adults, they also have a great selection of morning favorites that could make any kid happy. Our sampling included the awesome silver dollar pancakes! They’re fluffy and golden with a little crunch around the edge, just like a pancake should be. They’ve also got French toast, biscuits and gravy, and a Mickey Mouse pancake! To top it off, all of these meals come in around five bucks! Next on our list is Paul’s Confectionary. One of my fondest memories as a little Food Dude is of my parents taking me to this awesome place. You can’t beat the chili, burgers, and milkshakes. But, if your little ones aren’t ready for the intensity of a bowl of Paul’s chili, fear not! They have a small but nice list of kid favorites, like grilled cheese sandwiches, hot dogs or chicken tenders. Add some fries and a Green River (an electric green lemon-lime soda concoction that I still get as an adult), and you’ve got a great meal. All of their meals come in right around four dollars.
My family loves Mexican food, and our favorite place to get some is at Mi Jalapeño. They’ve got all the classics, like quesadillas, tacos and awesome fajitas. What’s really great about their kids’ menu is that it not only has child-sized portions of the same great food, but they also have some classic American fare, like burgers or hot dogs for those kids who aren’t into Mexican food. Like Paul’s, their kid menu prices are right around four dollars. I’ve never met a single kid who doesn’t like noodles of some kind, and that’s why Pastabilities makes this list as a great Italian option. They’ve got the stand-bys like spaghetti and meatballs, pizza and penne pasta with alfredo sauce. And don’t forget spaghetti tacos! One of the best things about their menu is that kids eat for a buck during the week! The price goes up to five bucks on the weekend, but that’s still a great deal for food this good. The final place on the list is Donnie’s Homespun Pizza. While they don’t have a kids’ menu per se, a great build-your-own pizza option on the menu has all the classic toppings that are sure to make everyone happy. The individual 10” pizza is the perfect size for the junior pizza lover in your house, and the price is right, too, at right around six bucks. So the next time your family decides to let someone else do the cooking, check out one of these great places. Your kids and your wallet will thank you!
The Food Dude is not a professional critic. He just really, really likes food. 10 | january 2013
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
Sew Cute SOCK OWL $13.00 from Haines & Essick
January Entertainment Matt Carter Saturday, January 26 Mobile Soundz Karaoke Every Thursday Feat. Troy Hayes: 9p-1a
photo: Kat Smalley
Everyone loves a sock monkey, but really, argyle is where it's at! I'm also a sucker for owls, so when I saw this on the shelf downtown at Haines & Essick, I had to grab one. Upon further inspection of the Sock Owl box, I noticed a wonderful message from the founders of the Creativity for Kids Company: Childhood creativity lasts a lifetime! That probably explains why the suggested age range for this product is ages 7 to 97. I can only assume that if you are 98 or better you're qualified, too; it's just that 97 has a nice ring to it. I perused the kids’ section for quite some time and found so many great toys and games. I couldn't leave without the Owl, but I did have a runner up. Next time you pop in, be sure to look for the "Grow Your Own Snow" kit. How cool! january 2013 | 11
12
ART SPEAK
by Jenny Cowgill
Show Kids the Arts As a student teacher I had a student in my homeroom class who was often in trouble. He’d mess around when he was supposed to be working, make fun of other kids, throw things in the classroom and was generally disruptive. One day he noticed the clay animals I’d been working on and asked about them. I sat down with him and showed him step by step how to make them. He was quiet and focused and fulfilled. He messed up but started over, and he was eventually successful. After that, whenever he was done with his homework, he’d ask for clay. I never had another problem with him in class. Not only that, he’d help clean up the room every day and was always ready with a friendly smile and “hello” when I’d see him in the halls. Sometimes art can make all the difference. Art instruction is often the first program to be cut in tough economic times as schools struggle with budget problems. The importance of the arts in the lives and education of young people is often overlooked as it is viewed as recreational, non-academic and non-essential by many. This stance couldn’t be further from the truth. In an increasingly complex world, the role of the arts is more vital than ever. It’s not just about creating art; it’s about approaching problems creatively. Giving children the opportunity, the tools and the skills needed to create art far exceeds the painting they bring home to hang on the fridge or their after-dinner rendition of “Mary Had a Little Lamb” on their recorder. As Paul Ostergard, Vice President of Citicorp, states, "A broad education in the arts helps give children a better understanding of their world…We need students who are culturally literate as well as math and science literate." In order to succeed in many areas of life, art is an essential component. Creating art, whether it be a painting, a piece of music or a dance, is about problem solving. When you’re given the freedom and the opportunity
to be creative, you are given the tools to think outside the box. This skill is important to acquire in all areas of life, whether you plan to become a musician, a graphic artist or an engineer. Clifford V. Smith, President of the General Electric Foundation, illustrates this point well as he says, “GE hires a lot of engineers. We want young people who can do more than add up a string of numbers and write a coherent sentence. They must be able to solve problems, communicate ideas and be sensitive to the world around them. Participation in the arts is one of the best ways to develop these abilities.” Regardless of where a child is headed in life, the arts play a vital role in creating a well-rounded education. At the Decatur Area Arts Council, we work to bring the arts not just to young people but to everyone. We feel that what we offer can often fill in the gaps of an education without the arts. We strive to give students a variety of arts experiences in a wide range of mediums so that they can pinpoint their passion. Another goal is to bring the arts of other cultures to the area. To view the positive impact of art on children’s education, come see the Young Artist Showcase in the Anne Lloyd Gallery at the Arts Council this month. And to give your child the important experience of art, check out our list of classes at www.decaturarts.org. Jenny Cowgill is Education Coordinator for the Decatur Area Arts Council.
12 | january 2013
Drink of the Month JANUARY
Top Hat Martini Vodka Kahlua Frangelico Amarula Amaretto Cream
Tu-Th 4-11p, Fr-Sa 4p-2a 112 Merchant St. | 217.330.7802 january 2013 | 13
Put Cabin Fever on Ice
with a Blizzard of Kids’ Entertainment Decatur IL Moms delivers year-round resources for winter and beyond by Joli A. Hohenstein
14 | january 2013
When it comes to winter, nothing lifts spirits for moms (and dads) like the holidays’ burst of kid-friendly indoor and outdoor activities. But what to do when the stockings are stuffed, the menorah blown out and the confetti cleaned up? How do you put tantrums on ice and freeze the good cheer through winter’s drear? Decatur IL Moms has some answers. Knowing this is a dilemma parents face year-round, local moms Bailey Broderick and Amanda Duckworth founded Decatur IL Moms in 2011 with an eye toward taking one small thing off parents’ plates. One of their chief goals: make it easy to find resources for entertainment, education and beyond.
With a 10-mom advisory panel behind them, the two generate a host of ideas and answers to common questions, responding through Facebook and their web site, www.decaturilmoms.com. Regular events include Coffee Talk, a bi-monthly excursion designed to create mommy time. Held the first and third Tuesday of the month from 9:30-11 am at Westminster Presbyterian Church, the chats include light breakfast and beverages plus free child care (registration required).
Another recurring favorite: the Weekly Indoor Playdate, every Wednesday from 9:30-11 am. Join them through March on the 1st “We wanted to create a communal Wednesday at the Decatur Indoor place for moms to get together and Sports Center ($2 per child, crawlers have events,” says Amanda. free), 2nd Wednesday (TBD), 3rd Wednesday at South Shores The answers lie in a clever mix of Christian Church, 4th Wednesday activities for moms and kids alike, at Grace United Methodist Church, and Decatur IL Moms’ robust calendar 5th Wednesday at the Mt. Zion bursts with ideas. McDonald’s, and as an added bonus, on the 2nd and 4th Mondays at DMH “Any moms can benefit whether stay-at-home or working moms,” says Play Place in Hickory Point Mall. Bailey. “We’re focused on keeping They also do a Mom’s Night Out children active and helping moms find quarterly. Past events have included resources so they know where to go.” a private pedicure party at Annie’s Nail Club and a visit to Chef Tippy’s in To tackle the task at hand, they’ve Sullivan. taken a two-pronged approach: Create their own events, large and And a new partnership with DMH small, both kid-friendly and moms will bring more exciting activities only. And next, much like THRIVE, to come. “They have resources we mine the Decatur area’s vast resources Continued on page 16 for ideas.
january 2013 | 15
Continued from page 15 Cross country skiing at Rock Springs, Saturdays and Sundays, $12 includes skis, poles, boots and 1-hour lesson, couldn’t imagine,” says Bailey, “and they’ve also been wanting to connect reservations required. Check out more details in the December with new markets.” issue of THRIVE or visit www. In addition, special events are maconcountyconservation.org/rockconstantly in the pipeline. The springs-nature-center.php#rentals. holidays saw a Cookie Swap & Wrap Super Saturday Recess at the Decatur Party, plus a full online guide to Christmas in Decatur including Santa Indoor Sports Center, 10 am-noon encounters, local festivities, Christmas on Saturdays through February tree farms and a spot-the-Christmas- 11, for kids age 4-11 (3 & under can participate but may not use lights contest (winner received the Griswold Award as a nod to National inflatables), $3.50 per child. Visit www.decatur-parks.org/wp-content/ Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation uploads/2012/10/Saturday-Recessmovie). Oct-Dec-20121.pdf. Continuing the kids’ wintertainment extravaganza, they’ve also amassed a Winter mini camps at Rock Springs, blizzard of activities. Here are some of ages 1-4; explore nature and animals through crafts, activities, songs, their favorites:
16 | january 2013
stories, hikes and snacks; upcoming camps include Shapes in Nature and Sweetheart Owls. More details: www. maconcountyconservation.org/minicamps.php.
Next of Kiln pottery studio. Paint your own or hit one of their many classes and workshops. More details in this issue of THRIVE on page 8 or find them on Facebook.
Golf at McGorray’s Golf & Grille. Budding sports enthusiasts will love hitting the virtual links on the golf simulators. Visit mcgorrays.com.
Children’s Museum of Illinois. Handson exhibits encourage children of all ages to touch and interact, focusing on people and cultures, the arts, physics/physical science, the ecosystem and health sciences. Visit www.cmofil.org.
Wiggles & Giggles at Debbie’s Dance Studio. These classes combine music and movement to give kids 18 months to 4 years a workout with toddler balance beams, obstacle courses, parachutes, trampoline and more. No need to sign up, held Tuesday mornings at 9:40, cost only $5 for 1 child, $8 for two.
e x plor e N
Want more ideas or details? Check out www.decaturilmoms.com or find them on Facebook!
EW
horizons
this spring
Find all of our Continuing and Professional Education non-credit courses
REGISTER TODAY TO • Improve your skills • Advance an interest • Learn a new hobby
online at
richland.edu/cpe
CALL 875.7200 One College Park | Decatur, Illinois 62521 | 217.875.7200 | richland.edu
january 2013 | 17
January Events EVERY DAY
Decatur Camera Club
Enjoy the beauty of flowers, animals and scenic views of central Illinois with this beautiful photography display by the Decatur Camera Club. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln] David Staff
The artwork of David includes beautiful birds, wildlife, flowers, close-ups and landscapes of central Illinois. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln] Sue Watts
Art Exhibit, Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe [256 W Main, www.wildflourartisanbakery. com] Barbara Hodges
Art exhibit, hand-made jewelry. Gallery 510 [160 E Main, Suite 100, 422.1509, gallery510.org]
EVERY MONDAY
Preschool Soccer (begins 1.14 thru 2.18)
Fun, 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. Adults learn ways to help children practice and continue the development of these skills. $40-48, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 5-5:30p Intermediate Junior Golf (thru 2.25)
Juniors (ages 10-13) can take their swing to the next level with assistance from the Park District golf pros! $50-59. DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 5:30-6:30p Youth Indoor Soccer (begins 1.14 thru 2.18)
MidState's indoor soccer programs are designed to Carol Works teach fundamentals and Art exhibit, primarily oil stick. techniques. Participants Decatur Airport [910 Airport Rd] learn passing, dribbling, and team play during 30-minute Diana Manning training sessions, followed Art exhibit. Decatur Public by 20-minute games. $49Library [130 N Franklin] 58, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 5:30-6:30p (Ages Faculty Biennial Exhibition 5-6), 6:30-7:30p (Ages 7-9), Open to the public. Free, 7:30-8:30p (Ages 10-12) Perkinson Gallery [Millikin University, 1184 W Main] 12- Adult Indoor Soccer 5p (Mo-Fr) (begins 1.14 thru 2.25) Adult soccer players (ages 18+) can enjoy casual matches during this 7-week, friendly open play session; no pre-registration required. $6, DISC [1295 W Wood] 9-10p
18 | january 2013
EVERY MONDAY & TUESDAY Toddler & Beginning Tumbling (begins 1.28 thru 3.5)
Age-appropriate instruction for youth in grades Pre-K to 6. Beginners focus on flexibility and coordination, while intermediate tumblers enhance their skills. $3036, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 4:30-5p & 5-5:45p
EVERY TUESDAY Beginner Stained Glass Class
Learn how to cut glass, solder and finish two stained glass projects. Space is limited; call for details. The Glass House [2895 N Oakland, 875.7077] Time TBA Chess Club
Doherty's Pub & Pins [242 E William St, www. decaturchessclub.com] 6-10p Men's Basketball Leagues (begins 1.8 thru 3.26)
Competitive, recreational and church leagues are offered; leagues vary according to skill level. Teams play 10 games during the season. $370/team, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 6-10p Stevie Ray Kelton
Lincoln Square Lounge, 7:30p-12a
Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!
EVERY TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY Junior Golf (begins 1.8 thru 2.27)
EVERY THURSDAY
EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY
Preschool Golf (begins 1.10)
Wine Tastings
Children ages 3 - 4 will learn Park District pros offer the basic fundamentals an introduction to golf, of golf by focusing on teaching hitting and putting coordination, simple fundamentals, golf rules and techniques and motor skills. etiquette. Clubs are provided Adults also learn ways to for those who need them. help their child practice Junior Golf is for youth ages and develop these skills. 5-12. $50-59, DISC [1295 W $36-42, DISC [1295 W Wood, Wood, 429.3472] 5-6:45p 429.3472] 5-5:45p or 6-6:45p (Times Vary by Age)
EVERY WEDNESDAY Coffee Club
The Decanter Fine Wines [215 N Main St, 422.9463] 4-7p (Fr), 1-6p (Sa)
EVERY SATURDAY
Super Saturday Recess
Adult Volleyball Leagues (begins 1.17 thru 3.7)
Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 10p-1a
Sign up for these fun, recreational volleyball leagues for co-ed teams. Teams play once a week with a schedule of 8 self-officiated games. $125/team, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 6-10p
Mobile Soundz Karaoke
Stevie Ray Kelton
Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, 672.3621] 9:30a Karaoke & Water Pong
Featuring Troy Hayes. Woody's Bar [1190 W South Side Dr] 9p-1a Open Mic
Hosted by Matt Skinner. Donnie's Homespun Pizza [donnieshomespun.com] 9p-2a
EVERY WEDNESDAYSATURDAY Docta LD DJ/Karaoke
Curly’s Bar & Pizza [2683 N Water, 875.9800] 9p-2a
Timbuktu, 9p-1a
Mobile Soundz Karaoke
Featuring Troy Hayes. Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 9p-1a
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 U8-U14 Boys & Girls Indoor Soccer Leagues (begins 1.19 thru 3.2)
Soccer players ages 7-13 can extend their season with a 7-week indoor soccer league. Teams play two 24-minute halves each weekend, with 7 players and a goalie. $5262, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] Time TBD
Throwed Thursday
Featuring DJ Calieo. Woody's Bar [1190 Southside Dr] 10p DJ David Lee
Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 10p-1a
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January Events 1.1-1.15
Winter Reading Program
Just for teens. Read two book to win a prize (DPL library card not required). Get a Friends of Library bag for registering. Register at Reference Desk. Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin]
Wednesday, 2
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
DISC Open House
Demos, health screenings, and a chance to win a free membership! DISC [1295 W Wood, www.decatur-parks. org] 4-7p
Zumba
Bags Tournament
Friday, 4
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. decatur-parks.org, 429.3472] 6:30a-6p
Jeweler Barbara Hodges. Refreshments. Gallery 510 [160 E Main, 422.1509] 5:307:30p
Holiday Movie
Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey! Mt Zion District Library [115 W Main, Mt Zion, www.mtzion.lib.il.us] 1-2:30p Lego Day
Oreana Library [100 S Rt 48, Oreana, www.aopld.lib.il.us, 468.2340] 1-3p
20 | january 2013
Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 10a Community Game Day
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
1.2-1.4, 1.7
Thursday, 3
Dulcimer Club
Lego Club
As part of our "Get Fit 2013" series, you can come try Zumba with Crystal from the Decatur Athletic Club! Open to the public! Wear Movie Day your workout clothes and Popcorn and snacks come ready to try Zumba! provided. Oreana Library Free, Decatur Public Library [100 S Rt 48, Oreana, www. aopld.lib.il.us, 468.2340] 2-4p [Madden Auditorium] 6p Winter Break Day Camp
Saturday, 5
First Friday: Gallery 510
Gallery Walk
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 Sliderz Bar & Grille [5995 US 36] 2p Diversity
Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 3:30-5:30p Into the Wild: Cross Country Skiing
Skis available for children ages 5 through adult. Animal tracks and the silhouette of trees will guide our way. Hot chocolate and cookies will warm our tummies when we return. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708] 4p
Gallery 510, Decatur Arts Council [Downtown Decatur] Whoopie Cats 5:30-7:30p Sliderz Bar & Grille [5995 US 36] 4p Live Karaoke Band
Rusty Spur [4380 W Main, 423.3056] 9p-1a
1.4-1.5
Bridal Expo
Fashion Show 7:30p (Fr), 2:30p (Sa). $3-5, Decatur Conference Center [4191 US 36 W, decaturbridalexpo. com, 428.3481] 5-9p (Fr), 12-4p (Sa)
Abate of Illinois Freedom By Choice Membership Party
Band Antics @7p. DAV [1700 N Lakeshore] 6p Point 08
Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 9p-1a
Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!
Throttle Junkies & Triple Shot
Rusty Spur [4380 W Main, 423.3056] 9p-1a
Monday, 7 Tai Chi
Back by popular demand as part of our "Get Fit 2013" series, you can come try Tai 1.5-1.28 Chi with Don from the DISC! Young Artists Showcase Open to the public! Wear Annual juried exhibit your workout clothes and featuring exemplary art work come ready to try Tai Chi! by Decatur area students Free, Decatur Public Library in grades 5-8. Madden [Madden Auditorium] 10a Arts Center [125 N Water] 8:30a-4:30p (Mo-Fr) & Zumba 10a-2p (Sa) As part of our "Get Fit 2013" series, you can come try Sunday, 6 Zumba at the library with Cross Country Amber from the DISC! Open Ski Workshops to the public! Wear your Cross country skiing for one workout clothes and come hour can burn between ready to MOVE! Free, Decatur 400-800 calories! A great Public Library [Madden way to observe wildlife Auditorium] 6p and explore the outdoors. Learn the basics of crossTuesday, 8 country skiing. Includes POSE Running skis, boots, poles and What is POSE running? one hour of instruction. Come learn more about this Reservation required. Rock method of running during Springs Nature Center our "Get Fit 2013" series. [3939 Nearing Ln, www. Speaker Patrick Larry will maconcountyconservation. focus on POSE running and org, 423.7708] 10a the mechanics behind the concept. Free, Decatur Public Winter Wonderland Hike Library [Madden Auditorium] 6p One week into the New Year! Don’t let your resolution to Wednesday, 9 spend more time outdoors Greater Decatur fall by the wayside! Come Chamber Breakfast out for a wonderland hike! The Decatur Club Rock Springs Nature Center [158 W Prairie, www. [3939 Nearing Ln, www. decaturchamber.com] 7-8a maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 2p Books Between Bites Children's books for adults to enjoy - with or without a child. Are there other books
in the children’s collection worthy of adult attention? You bet... Let the Children's Department show you the books to read. Decatur Public Library [Madden Auditorium] 12:15p
Thursday, 10
Story Time - Snowman Stories
Story time is for children 5 and younger and their caregivers. Please call to register your child. Oreana Library [100 S Rt 48, Oreana, www.aopld.lib.il.us, 468.2340] 10-11a Open Mic Poetry Night
Open Mic Poetry Night with host, and resident poet, Phil Shils. Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Café [256 W Main, 422.3300] 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
Did you know?
Listing your event with THRIVE is absolutely FREE! Send your info by the 15th to events@thrivedecatur.com january 2013 | 21
January Events Friday, 11
and movie tunes from Sister Act, Titanic, The Lion King, Italian Buffet and Trivia Night. and The Little Mermaid. $12, $10 seniors, $7 students, Silent Auction, 50/50 raffle. Tickets available at Village of Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary Mt Zion and Secret Recipes. K Anderson Plaza, www. $20, Table of 8: $140, Mt Zion decatur-parks.org, 422.5911] Convention Center [Mt Zion 7:3p (Fr & Sa), 2p (Su) Parkway, Mt Zion] Time TBA Buon Appetito!
Saturday, 12
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 The True Art of Bellydance
ATS®\ITS\SGI Old skills, new skills with drills. Bring zills. All you can eat pancakes & Richland Community College The boys are back for another year on the second sausage and biscuits & gravy. [One College Park, www. eesabellabellydance.com] Friday of every month! Res- $6-Adult, $3-2-10 yrs, Free12-2p ervations go fast, so call Glo under 2, United Methodist to get yours now! Paco's Sol Church [200 N Water, Dalton Pinterest Party: Going Bistro [237 N Main, 330.6483] City] 7-10a Beyond the Pin! 8-11p 2nd Saturday Book Sale Are you a Pinhead? Ever wish Looking for a hidden gem you had time to try all of the Live Entertainment or a favorite movie? Check Pinterest ideas to see if they Rusty Spur [4380 W Main, out the Friends of the Library really work? Then it’s time to 423.3056] 9p-1a Second Saturday Used Book get Pinteractive! The library Sale. Decatur Public Library will provide the supplies 1.11-1.12 Main Hangar Comedy Hour [130 N Franklin] 9:30a-12:30p along with a Pincredible snack to taste. Call to pin Jamie Cruz & Sonya White. Animal Crackers: your spot. $5, Barclay Library $10-12, Main Hangar [220 S Main, Warrensburg, Restaurant [910 S Airport Rd, Think Warm Thoughts Children ages 3-5 can listen barclay.lib.il.us, 672.3621] 1p mainhangarrestaurant.net, to a story, meet an animal, 421.7452] 8:30p create a craft with their adult Decatur Big Band guests and snack on animal Lock Stock & Barrel 1.11-1.13 [129 S Oakland] 3:30-5:30p Winter Antique Show & Sale crackers! $9-10, Scovill Zoo Educational Center [71 S Ed Walker Fine Art & Country Club Rd, www. 360 Band Antiques. As always, the decatur-parks.org, 421.7435] Great old school & blues pre-priced sale will include 9:30-10:15a & 11-11:45a band. Sliderz Bar & Grille an exciting variety of fine [5995 US 36] 4-7p antiques, lighting, furniture, collectibles and jewelry from Preschool Peepers-Warm Cross Country Ski & Fuzzy local estates. $2 donation, We like coats, and so do Workshops Millikin University [Kirkland animals! They have coats Cross country skiing for one Fine Arts Center] 9a-5p of fur to keep them warm! hour can burn between 400Feel the softness of mammal 800 calories! A great way to Greater Decatur Chorale observe wildlife and explore Winter Concert - Hooray for fur and hear the storybook The Mitten read aloud. Rock the outdoors. Learn the Hollywood! basics of cross-country skiing. The Greater Decatur Chorale Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. Includes skis, boots, poles is comprised of 80+ adults maconcountyconservation. who enjoy singing. Songs org, 423.7708] 10a performed include "Moon River," "Singing in the Rain," UMC Pancake Breakfast
LHP
22 | january 2013
Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!
and one hour of instruction. Reservation Required. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 4p
Sunday, 13
Tuesday, 15
Flea Market/Craft Sale. VFW Post 99 [926 N Water, 428.6811] 9a-4p
GLAD Social
Fellowship, Potluck 7p followed by program. [TBD, www.gladdecatur.com] 6:30p
Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 1-4p
Night Moves
Family Science Sunday
As part of our "Get Fit 2013" series, you can come try Zumba Gold with Jennifer from the Decatur Athletic Club! Zumba Gold is for senior citizens or those new to Zumba. Open to the public! Wear your workout clothes and come ready to MOVE! Free, Decatur Public Library [Madden Auditorium] 1p
Moose Lodge [3190 W Woodford] 7p Gutterbound
Rusty Spur [4380 W Main, 423.3056] 9p-1a Matt Livasy
Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 9p-12a Rosetta Stone
Sliderz Bar & Grille [5995 US 36] 9p
Flea Market
Zumba Gold
Bluegrass Music Jams
Hands-on science workshop in partnership with Richland Community College. Check our website for more information! Preregistration is encouraged. Free for Members; $5 Public, Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, www. cmofil.org, 423.5437] 2:30-3:30p
Monday, 14 Yoga
As part of our "Get Fit 2013" series, you can come try Yoga Midstate Indoor 3 v 3 at the library with Linda from Futsal Tournament the Decatur Athletic Club! Teams have a maximum of 6 Open to the public! Wear your players with no goalkeeper. workout clothes and bring Teams are guaranteed a towel or mat with you! three games consisting Free, Decatur Public Library of 12-minutes halves on [Madden Auditorium] 6p shortened fields using PUGG goals. DISC [1295 W Wood, www.decatur-parks.org]
1.12-1.13
1.15-1.16
Shapes in Nature Mini-Camp
Circles, and squares, and triangles. Children will explore shapes that are found in the nature. $10, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 1p (Tu: Ages 3&4), 9a (We: Ages 1-4)
Wednesday, 16 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
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January Events Decatur History Club
Friday, 18
Saturday, 19
Thursday, 17
Up to 10 people per team. Prize for best table theme, 50/50 drawing. Preregistration and pre-paymet required by 1.14. 6p table decoration, 7p trivia begins. $100/team, Knights of Columbus Hall [520 E North, 464.2520] 6p
All-you-can-eat pancake & sausage breakfast. $6-Adult, $3-Child, Maroa Fire Department [300 E Washington, Maroa] 6a
Join us for a free program on various history topics. Decatur Public Library [Staley Room] 7p DPL Book Club
Book TBA. Decatur Public Library [Board Room] 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 Euchre Night
Bring your own partner or come alone and meet new friends. Wildflour Artisan Bakery & CafĂŠ [256 W Main, 422.3300] 5:30p
Trivia Night
Storytelling
An evening of storytelling and folk music by storytellers Linda Dust and Dan Keding. Appropriate for ages 12+. $5, Wildflour Artisan Bakery & CafĂŠ [256 W Main, 422.3300] 7-8:30p
Fire Department Annual Pancake & Sausage Breakfast
Central Illinois Regional Chili & Salsa Cook-off
Professional and celebrity cooks compete for prizes and the professional cooks compete for a chance at the International Chili Cook-Off. Hickory Point Mall [Forsyth, 433.9068] 10a-4p
48 Connection
Collaborate and Create Workshop
Leaving Iowa
Dulcimer Club
Join Regina Rhodes from Next of Kiln to create a clay creation that will become Live Entertainment a part of the museum's Decatur Signature Rusty Spur [4380 W Main, exhibitions! Workshop Chefs Auction 423.3056] 9p-1a is for children ages 6-12. Local chefs highlight their Pre-registration and predishes and a premier Silent 1.18-1.19 payment are required. and Live Auction is held that Mt Zion Invitational Only 30 spots available. includes getaways, dinners Show Choir Competition, $6 Members; $10 public, from local chefs, golf outings, Mt. Zion High School [305 S Children's Museum of Illinois art work and much more. Henderson, Mt Zion, www. [55 S Country Club Rd, $75, Decatur Conference swingsations.com, 864.2363] www.cmofil.org, 423.5437] Center [4191 W US Hwy 36 10a-12p W,816.5023] 6p 1.18-1.20, 1.25-1.27 Road to Memphis Send Off Concert
This is a fundraiser for the winners of our Road to Memphis competition. Blues Expressions & Brown Bottle Fever will represent the Decatur Blues Society in the International Blues Challenge. $10, The Decatur Club [158 W Prairie] 7p
24 | january 2013
Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 8p-12a
Leaving Iowa comes from being children of parents from the now dubbed "greatest generation." The story is a toast to their idealism and character and a little roast of their undying dedication to the classic family road trip. $13, RCC: Shilling Auditorium [One College Park, www.theatre7. net] 7:30p (Fr & Sa), 2p (Su)
Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 10a
Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!
12th Annual Barstool Open
Breakfast at AIW Hall or KC Hall at 8:30a. Line up at 10:15a. Play begins at 11a. AIW Hall/KC Hall [2882 N Dineen/520 E North, www. ucpll.org] 10:15a Annual Soup's On!
Those wishing to enter should bring a crockpot of their own famous soup along with the recipe to the library by 10:45a. Then, stay to sample all the other offerings and vote for your favorite. Tasting is open to the public. Sample and vote! Barclay Library [220 S Main, Warrensburg, barclay.lib.il.us, 672.3621] 11a-12:30p Baseball Instruction Clinic
Millikin University coaches and players assist athletes with throwing, hitting, catching, fielding, and base running. Players are divided into age groups and use the batting cages and full gym. $45-54, DISC [1295 W Wood, www.decatur-parks.org, 429.3472] 1-2:30p Performance Workshop
Want a little more gitty up and go, quicker off the line, top end performance? Our Custom Consultant, Tony, will discuss how to get the most out of your HarleyÂŽ motorcycle. There will also be a question and answer session. Coziahr H-D [150 W Marion, Forsyth, www. coziahrhd.com] 1-3p
Family Fun-Making Tracks
Have you ever seen an animal track? Have you made a track of your own? It’s easy! Just take a step. Even better, we can strap some models on our feet and then we can make tracks of other animals! Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 1:30p Hitmen and a Dame
Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 8-11p Riverbottom Nightmare Band
Playing all the top hits of the 80's. Sliderz Bar & Grille [5995 US 36] 9p Retrospect
Rusty Spur [4380 W Main, 423.3056] 9p-1a
Sunday, 20
Cross Country Ski Workshops
Cross country skiing for one hour can burn between 400-800 calories! A great way to observe wildlife and explore the outdoors. Learn the basics of crosscountry skiing. Includes skis, boots, poles and one hour of instruction. Reservation required. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 10a
Festival of Church Choirs
Fifth annual celebration, featuring adult and children's ensembles that represent more than ten churches and a variety of worship styles. Tabernacle Baptist Church [650 N Wykles, 428.4240] 2p Winter Tree Identification
Can you identify different types of trees? The easiest way is usually by the leaves, but what about in winter when all the leaves have fallen to the ground? Different trees have different bark and shapes; they also grow at different speeds. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 2p Fans Field Neighborhood Association New Year's Chili Supper
Decatur Housing Authority [1808 E Locust] 6p Chamber Chorale Tour Finale
Free, Central Christian Church [650 W William,millikin.edu] 7:30p
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January Events Monday, 21 Cheer Camp
Enhance your cheer and stunt skills during this fun, one-day cheer camp led by Millikin University's Cheerleading Squad, for Pre K through 8th grades. $35-42, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 10a-3p Special MLK Jr Day Recess
Kids ages 4-11 will enjoy a special MLK Jr Day Recess 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
1.21-1.22
Escaping Neverland
These boys are never lost when it comes to great sound, so come get your listen on! Call for dinner/ band reservations. Paco's Sol Bistro [237 N Main, 330.6483] 8:30-11:30p 48 Connection
Rusty Spur [4380 W Main, 423.3056] 9p-1a
1.25-1.26
Main Hangar Comedy Hour
Tuesday, 22
Saturday, 26
Library Lego Club
Baseball Instruction Clinic
Millikin University coaches and players assist athletes with throwing, hitting, catching, fielding, and base running. Players are divided into age groups and use the Nonfiction Book Club batting cages and full gym. "Krupp: A History of the Legendary German Firm" by $45-54, DISC [1295 W Wood, Harold James. Decatur Public www.decatur-parks.org, 429.3472] 1-2:30p Library [Board Room] 1p Culinary Arts Luncheon
$10, RCC: Shilling Center [One College Park] Two seatings: 11:30a & 12:30p
Friday, 25 LHP
Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 9p-1a
26 | january 2013
Cross country skiing for one hour can burn between 400-800 calories! A great way to observe wildlife and explore the outdoors. Learn the basics of crosscountry skiing. Includes skis, boots, poles and one hour of instruction. Reservation required. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 4p
Kate Brindle & Floyd J. Phillips. $10-12, Main Hangar Restaurant [910 S Airport Rd, Soul Purpose mainhangarrestaurant.net, Great old school rock n roll. 421.7452] 8:30p Sliderz Bar & Grille [5995 US 36, soulpurposerocks.com] 4-7p
Includes a story, snacks, and Theatre 7 Production. Shilling creative play! Barclay Library Auditorium [Richland Com- [220 S Main, Warrensburg, barclay.lib.il.us, 672.3621] munity College, 1 College 10:30a Park] 6:30p Marrying Terry Auditions
Cross Country Ski Workshops
Millikin Faculty Jazz
Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland, millikin.edu] 3:30p
Father/Daughter Dance
Young ladies ages 5-12 and their dads will enjoy dinner and an evening of music and dancing. Reserve your spot by 1. 23. Dinner 5-6p, Dancing 6-9p. $25, $10 each addl sibling, Hickory Point Banquet Facility [727 W Weaver Rd, 422.5911] 5p Wolf Moon Hike
Some Native Americans have been known to call the January full moon the Wolf Moon. Come find out why on a winters evening hike. Reservations required. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 5:30p
Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!
Holy Family's Dinner/Dance Auction
Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 8-11p
enthusiast, as she shows wedding dresses and accessories from the 1840s to the 1920s. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 2p
Matt Carter
University Choir Tour
Holy Family Parish [2400 S Franklin, 423.7049] Time TBA Westend Blues Project
Pop's Place [4335 W Main] The Brat Pack
This is not only a band but a show with costumes and all, performing all the top hits of the 1980's. Sliderz Bar & Grille [5995 US 36] 9p Riverbottom Nightmare Band
Rusty Spur [4380 W Main] 9p-1a
1.26-1.27
Flea Market at NFT
Never Forgotten Thymes [726 E Cerro Gordo, 649.6590] 10a-5p (Sa), 11a-4p (Su)
Sunday, 27
Marshall Riggen Benefit
C4, Inside Out, Whoopie Cats, Autumn Zero, Matt Carter Band, Shovel Head, Greg Bickers, GB2, Buddy Love and the Can't Hardly Playboys, Rick Rambo. Food, raffles, 50/50. AIW Hall [2882 N Dineen] 12-10p
Wednesday, 30 Zumba Gold
As part of our "Get Fit 2013" series, you can come try Zumba at the library with Jennifer from the Decatur Athletic Club! Open to the public! Wear your workout clothes and come ready to MOVE! Free, Decatur Public Library [Madden Auditorium] 1p
St Patrick's Church [407 E Eldorado,millikin.edu] 2p
Thursday, 31
Tuesday, 29
Defy BMI Open Mic
Open Game Night
Family-friendly group playing board, card, and role-playing games. Games available or bring your own. Mancino's Pizza & Grinders [2805 N Main, www.decaturgamers. com] 5:30p Yoga
As part of our "Get Fit 2013" series, you can come try Yoga at the library with Linda from the Decatur Athletic Club! Open to the public! Wear your workout clothes and bring a towel or mat with you! Free, Decatur Public Library [Madden Auditorium] 6p
Featuring public domain and original music only - no copyrighted songs allowed! "Ain't we got fun" at Wildflour. Wildflour Artisan Bakery & CafĂŠ [256 W Main, 422.3300] 5:30p Family Free Night
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Guests are asked to maintain a 1:4 parent/guardian to child ratio. Free, Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, www.cmofil.org] 5:30-7p
Raptor Focus Series: Red Tailed Hawk
Session will explore the identification and natural history of the featured bird and will also discover how birds react to each other and their environment. $10, 19th Century Fashion Show MU: Leighty-Tabor Science Something old, something Center [1184 W Main, www. new! Join Nancy Torgerson, maconcountyconservation. a 19th century fashion org, 423.7708] 7-8p
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V I S UA L G U I D E TO M A K I N G
PlayDough by Kat Smalley
We've probably all thought about making our own playdough at some point. I mean, it's only the easiest, cheapest toy known to man—if you're up for making it at home. Cooking it up literally takes less than 10 minutes, and you could probably knead in all the color in about the same time. Once you have a batch, you just have to add a little imagination, and you can make anything!
step 1
Mix Ingredients
You'll want to incorporate the dry ingredients first in a mixing bowl. Add the water and oil to a large nonstick pot, and then pour in your dry ingredients. It'll be pretty lumpy at first, but it will work out just fine!
step 2
Cook Over Low Heat
Keep stirring your mixture over a low heat, and within 5 or 6 minutes, it will reach a consistency that looks like mashed potatoes and will be hard to stir. It happens just like that—magically, you have playdough.
28 | january 2013
the ingredients: 2 Cups Flour 2 Cups Warm Water 1 Cup Salt 2 Tbs Vegetable Oil 1 Tbs Cream of Tartar
step 3
Divide and Conquer
When you pull your lump of playdough out of the pot, it won't be pretty. Take a few seconds to knead it smooth into a ball. Next, divide it into several parts for coloring.
step 4 Add Color
This may look like the easy step, but it was by far the trickiest for me. Make sure to put down a sheet of plastic on your counter, and if you don't want stained hands, you may want to wear gloves. Press a divot into a ball and add your food coloring. Carefully fold the coloring into the playdough. I used regular liquid food coloring, but you could also use a powder or even unsweetened drink mixes.
step 5
Make Monsters Make Monsters O.K., you can make whatever you want, but this is definitely the most important step. Have fun, and let your imagination soar!
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Winter Programs at the Decatur Indoor Sports written by Troy Hayes Center Wondering what to do with the cabin fever your kids have incubated since the cold weather hit Central Illinois? Check out the Decatur Park District’s programs at the DISC. They have a variety of programs available in the winter months, and most are geared toward eliminating that cooped up feeling kids—and parents—experience as the elements keep us indoors.
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One of the most popular programs, Super Saturday Recess, will help kids aged 4-11 be active Saturday morning at the DISC with an open gym with inflatable bounce houses, scooters, basketball, tumbling and even a rock wall experience on select dates. No registration is necessary for Super Saturday Recess, but parents must be present. The cost is $3.50 a child, and Recess runs from 10 am to noon. “This has been one of our most popular programs, and it just started three years ago,” says facilities manager Elizabeth Green. “It’s almost been too good, to be honest. It is packed down there in the gym, and it’s gaining momentum.”
“It really is basic from log rolling to backbends and cartwheels for the beginners, but the intermediates get into more advanced skills and it becomes more personalized instruction at that level,” said Green. Toddler tumbling (ages 3-5) is January 28 through March 4 from 4:30 to 5 pm. Beginning tumbling (grades K-6) runs either January 28 to March 4 (5-5:45 pm) or January 29 to March 5 (4:30 to 5:15 pm) and Intermediate is January 29 to March 5 from 5:15 to 6 pm. Cost is $36 or $30 with resident discount. Other programs offered during the winter include:
Another in the most popular category of winter programs at the DISC is the cheer camp offered by the Millikin University cheerleaders. It runs on Martin Luther King Day (Monday, January 21) from 10 am to 3 pm and costs $42 for non-residents and $35 for residents. The camp is available for girls pre-kindergarten to eighth grade.
Winter football camp put on by the Millikin football staff. The camp, for ages 7-17, runs on Saturdays, February 9-23 from noon to 1:30 pm. The camp is geared to increase your agility and speed as well as your technique. Cost is $56 for non-residents and $47 for residents. Deadline for enrolling is January 20.
“It’s a fantasy camp for girls who dream of being cheerleaders,” says Elizabeth “We had 60 girls last year, so it’s very popular.”
Wrestling camp, teaching basic fundamentals, rules and skills taught by professional coaches from the area, is offered on Tuesdays from February 19 to April 2 from 5:30 to 6:30 pm at the Mueller Park Frontier Building. Fees are $35 or $30 with resident discount.
An added perk to the participants is that they get to cheer at a Millikin men’s basketball home game after completing Junior golf, taught by local professional the camp. golf instructors, is a year-long offering The DISC also offers tumbling in the from the DISC. Open from October winter. Classes are offered for pre-k to to mid-March, the indoor golf center sixth grade and are for beginners as well features a putting green, chipping as intermediate tumblers. continued on page 32
continued from page 30 area and bunker. Two simulators allow golfers to play more than 40 PGA championship courses around the world. Junior golf camps for preschoolers run on Thursdays from January 10-31 (5-5:45 pm). Fees are $42 or $36 with resident discount. Camp for ages 5-7 run Tuesdays from January 8 to February 26 from 6-6:45 pm and Wednesdays from January 9 to February 27 from 5-5:45 pm. Ages 8-12 go on Tuesdays from January 8 to February 26 from 5-5:45 pm and Wednesdays, January 9 to February 27, from 5-5:45 pm. Intermediate junior golf for ages 10-13 runs on Mondays from January 27 to February 5 (5:30 to 6:30 pm). Cost for the ages 5-12 and 10-13 camps is $59 ($50 with resident discount).
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And if you’re worried about a class not filling up, don’t. “We have terrific participation in the winter,” Elizabeth says. “We have no problem with numbers. Many parents take advantage of the programs to get their kids out from in front of their TVs.” And that is the goal of the DISC in all seasons. “It’s a really good way to keep kids active even though it’s too cold to be outside for long,” she says. “It’s warm and supervised, and the programs are healthy ways to spend some time playing. And that’s what we are here for.” For more information regarding these or any other programs the DISC may offer, please contact 429-3472 or visit decatur-parks.org.
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Start the new year with family fun at Children’s Museum of Illinois!
New in 2013... Join us the second Sunday of each month for fun, family science workshops that are free with admission!* Our first workshop is January 13 from 2:30p-3:30p - check our website for more information. Pre-registration is encouraged!
January Events
Special Openings
Collaborate & Create Clay Workshop 9:30a-4:30p Saturday, January 19 Monday, January 7 10a-12p Monday, January 21 $6 for members ...with special MLK Jr. Day craft! $9 for non-members Family Free Night Thursday, January 31 5:30p-7p Free admission! Check our website for details! 55 South Country Club Road Decatur, Illinois 62521 217-423-5437 www.cmofil.org Hours: Tues.-Fri. 9:30a-4:30p; Sat. 10a-5p; Sun. 1p-5p *Admission: $5 for everyone 2 and older; free for members