SPOT THE DIFFERENCE CHALLENGE: The Secret Garden
Entertainment Guide
Seasonal Small Town Daytrippin’ Holiday Style Dancing Dates Spotlight: Theatre 7 Angel Tree Rings True
Food Dude: Pizza Throwdown
FREE
Dec 2013
Art Speak: What could an elf, jam and art have in common? Featuring: The Decatur area’s handiest Events Calendar
Did you know? Listing your entertainment event with THRIVE is absolutely FREE! Send your information by the 15th to events@thrivedecatur.com THRIVE is a free, monthly entertainment guide published by Showcard Studio and distributed on the first of the each month.
PO Box 6195 • Decatur, IL 62524 217.791.5653 www.thrivedecatur.com Publisher: Katrina Smalley publisher@thrivedecatur.com The Eventor: Stephanie Zimmerman events@thrivedecatur.com Sales Consultant: David Fishel, Jr. sales@thrivedecatur.com Editor and Senior Writer: Joli Hohenstein Copy Editor: Teena Zindel-McWilliams Contributors: Jo Caulkins T. F. Dude Kim Mangan Angela Myers Robin Walters Photographers: Sarah Jane Sarah Gagnon Elizabeth Highcock Kim Mangan 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 | december 2013
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Berger Insurance • Lock Stock & Barrel • Lyle Campbell & Sons Realty • Macon County Farm Bureau • McM Designs Bead Shop • Mi Pueblito • Millikin UniversityAlumni House • Mystic Tan • Pop's Place • Pride Coin Laundry-Eldorado • Richland Fairview Park Plaza Center • Sound Check Music Center • Speed Lube-Grand • Speed Lube-West Eldorado • Subway-Oakwood • Swartz Properties • Tasty's Chicago Grille-Eldorado • The Glass House • The Rusty Spur • The Winery • University Dogs • Whitestar Home Healthcare Services • ARGENTA • Gerber State Bank-Argenta • BLUE MOUND • Blue Mound Village Hall • Dippin' Merv's • P&G Quickstop • FORSYTH • Applebee's • Architectural Expressions • Area 51 Salon • Aspen Dental • Baymont Inn & Suites • Cohn Furniture-Mall • Country Inn & Suites • Coziahr Harley Davidson • Kids N' Fitness-North • Old Book Barn • Petals • Quality Inn • Ramada Limited • Roots Salon • Speed Lube • Texas Roadhouse • Welcome Hotel & Suites • HARRISTOWN • Sanders Harristown Antique Depot • MACON • The Bullet Trap • MAROA • Casey's General Store • Freedom Gas • Main Street Café • MT ZION • Attitudes Salon • Bliss Salon • Collect Them • Corona's • Coz's Pizza • Decatur Jewelry & Pawn II • Del's Express • Filippo's Pizza • Good Naber Specialty Foods • Hawthorne Suites by Wyndham • Krekel's • La Gondola • M3 Salon • Mary Belle's • Merry Maids • Monical's Pizza • Mt. 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in this ISSUE issue #55 | december 2013 thrivedecatur.com | issuu.com/thrivedecatur
cover image: Stephanie Gagnon
BEHIND THE THRIVE
November: Out & About
SPOTLIGHT: Theatre 7 Angel Tree
Party Crashers' Crash of the Month
Food Dude: Pizza Throwdown
Publisher's Pick of the Month
Art Speak: Elf, Jam and Art? Small Town Daytrippin' Holiday Style December Events Calendar Dancing Dates Out & About: Interwebs Edition
Spot the Difference Challenge
THRIVE
is created and printed locally, in Decatur, IL.
04 05 08 09 10 11 12 14 18 28 33 35
WE RECYCLE!
Do You? Hand THRIVE to a friend or toss it in your bin!
THRIVE is printed using 10% Post Consumer Waste, SFI, FSC, Green-eCertified papers.
THRIVE is a proud member of the MICRO BUSINESS NETWORK december 2013 | 03
BEHIND THE
I N D E P E N D E NT LIVING FOR THOSE 55 & BETTER
CONGRATS TO OUR OCTOBER WINNER:
Debbie Bramer
THRIVE
There’s a whole world of happenings, holiday and otherwise, outside the city limits, and in this issue we’ve highlighted just a few of the options in our small town holiday tour article. Of course Decatur itself is no slouch for festive fun, either, as evidenced by the Arts Council’s annual Xmas ARTicles extravaganza, which kicks off at the downtown Christmas Walk December 4. While you’re at the Christmas Walk, take a gander through Theatre 7’s window at the Wish Tree, which gives good Samaritans the opportunity to choose a jingle bell wish to be replaced with an angel.
November Answers:
1. Silver bead turned brown 2. Red bead turned into round peach bead 3. Turquoise bead hole disappeared 4. .90 tag appeared 5. Two compartments turned into one 6. Brown bead appeared in empty space
Play the December Spot the Difference Challenge on p.35
Keep the good work and good fun going with our party pick of the month from Decatur Party Crashers, always a great source for a good time. After you hit all of the festivities and get your jingle on, keep things moving by tapping dancingdates.com to find the latest local locations to trip the light fantastic. This chock-full calendar web site has the lowdown on the best up- and downbeats regionwide. And of course we foodies can’t forget the gastronomical game of the season—in this case the ultimate pizza showdown of Del Carmen’s East vs West. Who’s tops? Read on for that and more—and cast your vote, too!
04 | december 2013
Out & About
A look back at last month’s happenings
December Downtown Christmas decor blanketed downtown last month in preparation for a fantastic holiday season. As if the upgrades downtown aren't fancy enoughnow they've got bling! Head on down and check them out.
Welcome TapRoot TapRoot Restaurant opened for business November 12. The new Merchant Street venue features all fresh, all seasonal, always delicious dinner choices. Check out taprootdecatur.com to see your options-yummy!
december 2013 | 05
Out & About
A look back at last month’s happenings
The Fabulous HoeDads Local veteran musicians Catfish Evans, Bruce Horn, Ron Stockert and Larz Cothern recently joined forces as The Fabulous HoeDads. On Friday, November 8, they brought their own special blend of blues, rock, country, soul and R&B to The Winery.
Trivia Nights Why sit at home when you can challenge your peers in a mean game of knowledge while supporting your favorite local food stop and raising funds for the United Way? The Budweiser Trivia Series runs every Wednesday through December 10.
06 | december 2013
Night In The Islands
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Illinois hosted a fundraiser on November 8, raffling off 10 trips. Participants purchased tickets for $100 for a chance to win a trip.
Treat Yourself! The Girl Scouts of Central Illinois held a Spa Day on November 9. Attendees learned the art of pampering through science. Everyday cooking items became face scrubs, cuticle cream, lip gloss and bath salt. A nice day of relaxation, all in honor of learning!
Club Ice
IMEA
The Decatur Civic Center has revamped its ice skating program with dance music and disco lights. Sessions are offered on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Not sure if you're ready for the party? Sign up for ice skating lessons every Thursday from 4-5 pm. See the full schedule at decaturciviccenter.net/ ice-skating.
The Illinois Music Education Association (IMEA) hosted students from nine area schools on Saturday, November 9, at Central Christian Church. The junior high students, who traveled from as far as Vandalia Junior High, rehearsed all day and performed an afternoon concert that was free to the public.
december 2013 | 07
08
SPOTLIGHT
by Joli Hohenstein
Theatre 7 Angel Tree Rings True Theatre 7 wants to deck the halls with…toilet paper and Kleenex? This year, Theatre 7 headquarters will feature a full-sized Christmas Wish Tree bedecked with jingle bells, each representing a critical need for the organization. When the need is fulfilled, the bell becomes an angel personalized with the fulfiller’s name, and their “angels” take home a bell ornament as a simple thank you for their generosity. The idea even has thespian roots, inspired by the famous line in It’s a Wonderful Life: “Every time a bell rings, an angel gets its wings.” Despite its lofty aspirations, the Wish Tree plants purely local roots. “Since we are an allvolunteer organization, there are things our building needs,” says Katrina Wilkerson, Theatre 7 President. “Simple things you need, when you’re hosting rehearsals, set construction, etc. Then we can concentrate our efforts on characters, costumes, set development—things our audience really enjoys.” Now in its 50th year, this community mainstay has been dedicated to fostering an interest in all aspects of the theater since 1964. Their most recent production, Bleacher Bums, just wrapped, and auditions begin in December for the January show, Desperate Affection. (See the THRIVE events section for more details.) Scores of volunteers come together to make Theatre 7’s professional-caliber productions a reality every year, and hundreds of members contribute and attend faithfully, but keeping the curtain rising on a community theater of this quality starts with basic nuts, bolts and Bounty. Starting with the Christmas Walk December 4, the tree will be on display in the front picture window of the Theatre 7 lobby, so people can see its progress and enjoy the angelic transformation throughout the holiday season. Passers-by are
photo: Sarah Jane
welcome to stop in, claim a bell and become an angel. “Hopefully, the tree will be more angels than bells by the end of the season,” says Katrina. A list of needs will be available on the Theatre 7 web site and on their Facebook page. While items like paper towels, napkins, brushes, nails and yes, toilet paper and Kleenex top the list, angels are free to give as they see fit. Whatever a building needs, they need. If cash donations are easier, or you have a specific item in mind to contribute, by all means, they’re open to anything. Angels can fly by the headquarters, call in or reply by e-mail or Facebook message to fulfill needs. Says Katrina, “We like to say, if you’ve got lots of friends, you’ve got lots of angels.”
Become an angel on the Theatre 7 Christmas Wish Tree 131 N. Water St., Decatur 423-2107, mail@theatre7.net theatre7.net or find them on Facebook
Joli Hohenstein is Editor and Senior Writer for THRIVE. She is an award-winning freelance writer, marketer, and editor. The slightest hint of jingle bells gets Joli in the holiday spirit! Get more Joli at jolihohenstein.com.
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r u t a DecRASHERS C PARTY
Crash
of the Month
Kidd Kaddilac
& the Continentals ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARTY
Saturday, December 7 at 4:00 pm
This month we'll be Rockin' out to raise funds for the Obesity Prevention Coalition and Decatur Cares Rescue Missions. Join us at Sliderz [5995 E Rt 36] on December 7, at 4:00 pm. $5 Admission.
facebook.com/groups/ DecaturPartyCrashers jccaulkins@aol.com
december 2013 | 09
10
THE FOOD DUDE
by T. F. DUDE
photos: Elizabeth Highcock
Pizza Throwdown: East v West After a long day’s toil, especially now with these darker and chillier evenings, is there anything better than ordering pizza for dinner? This Food Dude thinks not! Lucky for us, Decatur offers an abundance of delicious options for pizza lovers of all sorts. But when it comes to the question of who offers the best pies in town, there has been a long-standing contention in the Dude household between two locally owned establishments of the same name: Del Carmen’s East and Del Carmen’s West. Del Carmen’s was originally opened, owned and operated by a former school teacher named Dan Simone, who left the classroom to chase his dream of providing pizza to all. Legend has it that his signature sweet-spicy tomato sauce recipe was inspired by his then-wife, Carmen. And thusly, ‘the pizza of Carmen’ was officially born. Fortunately for us, Del Carmen’s pizza outlived Dan and Carmen’s marriage. When the couple divorced and each party split town in the midlate 1980s, they sold off the recipe and each of the two locations separately. DC’s East and West have since existed as two independently owned delicious-pizza-making establishments. Del Carmen’s West, located near MacArthur High School at 1601 W. Grand Ave, still looks (and smells!) almost exactly the way it did when I was a kid. Focusing their pizza-provision on delivery and carry out, the only chairs in the place are in the small space between the door and the counter, where you can wait (and smell!) for your pies to be ready. As a busy Dude, I greatly appreciate DC West’s delivery option—and it always arrives hot, fresh and generously topped. Attributable to the abundance of cheese they use, one of the hallmarks of a DC West Pizza is that, by the
time it arrives on my table, the pizza-cutter lines through the hot, melted cheese no longer correspond with the cuts in the crust. Not that I’m complaining! I’m simply saying: have extra napkins on hand, or don’t judge your dinnermates for licking their fingers whilst shoveling cheese into their delighted, expectant mouths. Across town, Del Carmen’s East sits at the corner of North 22nd and Prairie Ave (221 N. 22nd St). Although they don’t deliver, the owners recently expanded and updated the dining room, and they now have double the seating as before, making finding a table there during peak pizzaeating hours easy. While DC East’s cheese is less thick and gooey than West’s, they hardly skimp on it—or any of their toppings for that matter. Their veggies are noticeably fresh (not canned); they pile on the meat, and I don’t know what kind of magic ovens they have back there, but of the dozens—if not hundreds—of DC East’s pizzas I have eaten over the years, not a single one has been over- or under-cooked. The thin crust is like crispy perfection. Like DC West’s, their sauce is sweet but with a little spicy kick to it. And if that weren’t enough, DC’s East is cheap: you can get an 8” pizza with three toppings for about $5! And don’t forget to get your menu stamped—pay full price for six pizzas, and number seven is free! Both locations also offer the standard fare of side salads and breadsticks, and East offers several sandwiches as well, but personally, I come (again and again) to Del Carmen’s for the pizza. Whether you prefer East or West, you really can’t go wrong either way. And while I’m sorry to hear that the marriage of Dan and Carmen didn’t last long, its pizza byproduct was a gift to Decatur that, thankfully, keeps on giving! The Food Dude is not a professional critic. He just really, really likes food.
10 | december 2013
Publisher's
Pick of the Month Just a little something we ran across and wanted to share.
D e c e m b e r
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Decatur, IL; Burlington, IA; Chicago, IL; Jonesboro, AR; St. Louis, MO
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Sure, by now we know how awesome it is to hop on an Air Choice One flight to Chicago or St. Louis (don't forget Jonesboro or Burlington) and enjoy the leg room, leather seats, great service, and short waiting times at the airport. Now that we're approaching the holidays, I've been thinking about how convenient this service is to bring family in to visit, too! How many times have you fought traffic up to Chicago to pick up a friend or family member around this time of year? Just think of the time you'll save if you surprise them with a flight right into town. Usually I can find tickets for around $50 each way and I'm thinking it will totally be worth it to avoid the usual crabbiness that comes with traveling.
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december 2013 | 11
12
ART SPEAK
by Sue Powell
What could an elf, jam and art possibly have in common? photo submitted by the DAAC
heartwarming performance at the Fox Theatre on December 19. Kick back and relax while your bus, lunch, premium seats and snack on the way home are all covered by one easy ticket. Elves may seem like child’s play, but this Elf will bring the holiday spirit to life no matter how old you are! Give DAAC a jingle and book your reservation right away. Whether you want to drop off the kids to go shopping or make a family night out, you won’t want to miss Christmas Art Jam! Ornament and art making, games, Christmas music, snacks and movies pack the evening with good cheer on Friday, December 13. Kids can don their jammies so they’ll be ready for bed when they go home. Adults can join in for free with a paying child.
Well, two things: the Christmas season and Decatur Area Arts Council. At DAAC, ‘tis the season to be jolly and festive in all kinds of creative ways. Find joy in the quest for just the right gift! Make the rounds downtown during the Christmas Walk on Wednesday, December 4, from 5-8 pm. Be sure to stop at the Madden Arts Center, where you’ll be greeted by a unique shopping experience, holiday treats and live music. The Anne Lloyd Gallery is transformed into Xmas ARTicles, a holiday shop featuring original art and fine crafts by 50 artists. From jewelry to purses, ceramics to woodworking, paintings, baskets, ornaments, soaps, hair accessories, furniture and everything in between, you’ll be amazed at the affordable prices and variety of gifts. Get the first pick at the Christmas Walk opening, and then come back all month long to complete your holiday hunt. The musical Elf celebrates the true meaning of Christmas through a fun story that appeals to all ages. Jump on board the DAAC bus to see this
Let the musical strains pervade throughout the holiday season! Grab a friend and treat yourself to the “surround sound” of Vespers at Kirkland Auditorium. Matinee and evening concerts on December 7-8 combine rich choral presentations both on stage and all around the auditorium with moments of audience sing-alongs. Then on December 14 from 3:30-5 pm, feel the spirit in a big way at Lock, Stock & Barrel when the Decatur Big Band raises the roof with seasonal favorites. You can swing into holiday classics that evening with the Millikin Faculty Jazz Sextet’s sometimes toe-tapping and sometimes soothing holiday jazz concert. Last but not least, be creative in your giving this year. Think outside the box. Encourage children through seniors to explore the arts with a gift certificate to DAAC classes or theatre trips. Enrich a family’s life by gifting a membership to the Arts Council, or keep your community arts center alive with an end-of-year donation. Support your local artists. Arts experiences can make bold impressions and memories that last a lifetime.
Sue Powell is Gallery Director for the Decatur Area Arts Council. Christmas carols and festive decorations get Sue in the holiday spirit! 12 | december 2013
december 2013 | 13
Seasonal Small Town Daytrippin’ Holiday Style by Joli Hohenstein photo by Stephanie Gagnon
Morning dawns crisp and clear, and the bells are jinglin’ as you set out for a day of big fun on a small town holiday tour.
Moweaqua Christmas free carriage ride and free train ride: Marlene Craig
No hill is too fat for the jolly elf to slide up, so point your sleigh toward Cerro Gordo and Christmas on Exploring the four-building the Hill. shopping extravaganza, you snag Doors open at 9 am, and you arrive on the dot to some of the season’s coolest-yet sneak in a little shopping at vendors’ alley, select gifts, appreciating the festively a sweet treat from the homemade candy store, decorated light poles along the and if you’re feeling really festive, sit for a little face way. After 4 pm, you make your painting. Just prior to 10 am, you sneak outside to way to the Youth Center for a pick your perfect position for the main event: the quiet, impactful moment taking parade heralding Santa’s arrival. in the Live Nativity scene. When the last reindeer passes, if you’ve got littles, With a warm heart, you let your you head back inside for a VIP treat: lunch with tastebuds lead the way to the Santa! Kid-free? Girlfriends and happy couples Masonic Lodge Chili Supper, can warm their bellies at the soup and sandwich where you fill your belly with lunch, with plenty of savory goodness to boot. warm, hearty goodness to fortify for the festivity yet to come. A quick jaunt back east toward Decatur and then south on Rte. 51, and your day continues in Next you head back north on 51, the mecca of Moweaqua, with the community then break east to Mt Zion, just Christmas on Main. in time for the Christmas Around the World themed parade Munching on free cookies and sipping equally free hot chocolate, you enjoy the strolling singers at 6 pm. This longstanding as you make your way around downtown, where community event (a tradition presented by the Lions Club fun and festivities are packed into an utterly since the early 60s) is a nighttime walkable 4-block radius. parade for the first time ever! You take a free train ride and even a free carriage Staking your claim to a prime ride (if there’s white stuff on the ground, you can spot mid-route near the post add sleigh ride to your itinerary!), soaking in the sights and sounds of the season before you settle office at the corner of Main and Bell Streets, you enjoy illuminated in to await the main entrance. On Dasher, and Santa arrives at 2 pm to much fanfare and frivolity. entries and parade walkers from You can’t resist a commemorative shot with the continued on page 16 big guy. december 2013 | 15
a vast range of village offerings. Of course, your eyes are pealed for the Odd Fellows’ float (a first-place winner three years running) to see how they top last year’s live nativity complete with live animals.
As the fun fades, you follow the last jingle bell to the Firehouse, where you partake in free hot chocolate, cookies and of course, a visit with Santa (free jumbo oldfashioned candy cane sticks for each kid!). Feeling fully festive, you cap the evening with a quick trip around 51 to Rte. 121 and Warrensburg for a driving tour of the town’s annual Christmas Lighting Contest entries. With dozens of knock-your-bellsoff holiday lighting displays throughout town, you leave energized and engaged, already planning your next entertaining excursion (and making a mental note not to miss the awards ceremony December 18 so you can find out if your pick won the contest!). Big holiday fun at small towns’ finest!
Small Town Seasonality Moweaqua Christmas on Main
December 7, 9 am-5 pm Santa Fun Run/Walk 8 am (registration 7 am) Boy Scout Breakfast 6-10 am Santa arrives 2 pm Live Nativity starts 4 pm Masonic Lodge Chili Supper starts 5 pm Free face painting, train rides and carriage rides (plus sleigh rides if there’s snow)! Free decorated cookie for ages 2-10. Decorate a pole contest (anyone can enter--$100 for first place). Strolling singers. Shopping (hand-crafted and
16 | december 2013
artisan items plus brand names like Tupperware and Scentsy in four locations from nearly 40 vendors). More details: Facebook or Marlene Craig, 622-0762
Cerro Gordo Christmas on the Hill
Sponsored by American Legion Auxiliary Unit 117 December 7, 9 am-2 pm Cerro Gordo Grade School, Hope Welty Library and Downtown 10 am parade with Santa, face painting, balloon sculpting, shopping at vendors’ alley, homemade candy store, storytelling, crafts for kids, bucket raffle, lunch with Santa, soup & sandwich lunch More details: Nancy Born, 753-8521
Mt. Zion Christmas Around the World Parade
December 7, 6 pm Sponsored by Mt. Zion Lions Club First year for a nighttime parade with illuminated floats! Free hot chocolate, cookies, jumbo candy cane sticks and visits with Santa at the Firehouse after the parade More details: Trevor Brothers, 620-3350
Warrensburg Christmas Lighting Contest
Dozens of knock-your-bells-off holiday lighting displays throughout town Entries accepted through December 10 Awards presentation December 18, 6:30 pm, Village Hall More details: Facebook or Steve Shaw, 672-8266
Main Hangar
Comedy Hour
Gerry Grossman with Zach Martina Wednesday, Dec. 4 Thursday, Dec. 5 8:30 p.m. both nights
- PRESENTED BY -
Mike Stanley with Natasha Pearl Hansen
Wednesday, Dec. 18 Thursday, Dec. 19 8:30 p.m. both nights
Limited seating-only 100 tickets sold each show!
$10 in advance, $12 day of show Tickets are available at the Main Hangar Restaurant, by calling 217-421-7452, or online at mainhangarrestaurant.net Seating is determined on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend making reservations for 6:30 p.m.
AJ Finney with Kevin Kinner Thursday, Dec. 26 Friday, Dec. 27 Saturday, Dec. 28 8:30 p.m. all nights The Main Hangar
Serving Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & All You Can Eat Sunday Brunch Buffet
M ERRY CH RISTMAS FROM ALL OF US AT PAPA MURPHY'S!
Our Gift Cards & Pizza Cutters make great stocking stuffers. And, our Cheesy Bread, Cinnamon Wheels, & Cookie Dough are perfect for Holiday Parties!
255 W. Mound Road Target Center * Decatur 217-875-1700
december 2013 | 17
December Events
Mid State Youth Indoor Soccer (thru 12.9) Mid State’s indoor soccer programs EVERY DAY officiated games, each one hour are designed to teach fundamentals Delores Rice Logue long. $150 (team), DISC [1295 W and techniques to players aged Rock Springs Nature Center [South Wood, decatur-parks.org] 9a-12p 5-12. Participants learn passing, Gallery, 3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708] dribbling, and team play during 8a-5p (Mo-Fr), 8:30a-4:30p (Sa), 1-4p Preschool Activity 30-minute training sessions, Mad Scientist (thru 12.16) (Su) followed by 20-minute games. A different science topic will be $51-60, DISC [1295 W Wood, Barn Colony Artists covered each week to captivate Enjoy this beautiful display of local your child’s curiosity. These activities decatur-parks.org] 5-5:30 (ages 5-6), 6:30-7:30p (ages 7-9), 7:30-8:30p artwork that includes flowers, barns, will engage all 5 senses for an portraits, wildlife, architecture, optimal learning experience. For 18 (ages 10-12) and nature scenes. Rock Springs months to 4-year-olds. $30-35, DISC Intermediate Tumbling Nature Center [North Gallery, 3939 [1295 W Wood, decatur-parks.org] (thru 12.16) Nearing Ln, 423.7708] 8a-5p (Mo-Fr), 10-10:40a Youth in grades 2-6. $30-36, DISC 8:30a-4:30p (Sa), 1-4p (Su) [1295 W Wood, 429.3472, decaturParent Tot Tumbling parks.org] 5:15-6p (thru 12.16) Art Exhibit This class will introduce children Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Intermediate Junior aged 18 months - 3 years to the Cafe [256 W Main, www. Golf (thru 12.16) world of tumbling in a safe and wildflourartisanbakery.com] Juniors aged 10-13 can take structured environment. A parent their swing to the next level with Art Exhibit must be present and assist their assistance from the Park District golf Gallery 510 [160 E Main, Suite 100, child during class. $30-36, DISC pros! $48-57, DISC [1295 W Wood, 422.1509, gallery510.org] [1295 W Wood, 429.3472, decaturdecatur-parks.org] 5:30-6:30p parks.org] 4-4:30p Art Exhibit Monday Night Draft Decatur Airport [910 Airport Rd] Toddler Tumbling (thru 12.16) Come out and draft Magic the Beginners focus on flexibility and Art Exhibit coordination. Youth aged 3-5. $30- Gathering every Monday! $15, Board Knight [266 N. Rt 121, Decatur Public Library [130 N 36, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472, Warrensburg, boardknight.com] 6p Franklin, www.decaturlibrary.org, decatur-parks.org] 4:30-5p 424.2900] Country Line Dance Beginning Tumbling (thru Come join a fun-filled evening, meet 12.16) Karaoke new people and learn to country Cafe Brio [2880 N Oakland, Beginners focus on flexibility and line dance. No sign up. 875.2746] 9p-2a coordination. Youth in grades Great exercise! $6, Knights of K-6. $30-36, DISC [1295 W Wood, EVERY MONDAY 429.3472, decatur-parks.org] 5:15-6p Columbus Hall [520 E North St, 764.3070] 7-8p (Class), 8-9p (Dance) Early Bird Basketball Leagues (thru 12.30) Mid State Pre-School Adult Indoor Soccer Open Play Are you aged 45+ or retired and Soccer (thru 12.9) Adult soccer players can enjoy looking for a way to stay active Pre-School Soccer is a fun, casual matches during this friendly during the day? Includes 9 selfinteractive class for 3- and 4-yearopen-play session. Must be 18 olds, accompanied by an adult. years or older. No pre-registration Kids learn the basic fundamentals of soccer and work on motor skills, is required. $6, DISC [1295 W Wood, coordination and teamwork. Adults 429.3472] 9-10p learn ways to help children practice and continue the development of these skills. $42-50, DISC [1295 W Wood, decatur-parks.org] 5-5:30p
Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!
EVERY TUESDAY Early Bird Volleyball Leagues (thru 12.31) The 6-on-6 Early Bird Volleyball League is for those aged 45 or older! $150 (team), DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472, decatur-parks.org, 429.3472] 9a-12p Storytime (thru 12.10) For children aged 2-5, includes craft and snack. Caregivers are required to participate. Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, 672.3621] 10:30a Junior Golf (thru 12.17) Park District pros offer an introduction to golf for youth aged 5-12, teaching hitting and putting fundamentals, golf rules and etiquette. Clubs are provided for those who need them. $48-57, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472, decaturparks.org, 429.3472] 5-5:45p (ages 5-7), 6-6:45p (ages 8-12) Youth Wrestling (thru 12.17) Amateur wrestlers aged 6-14 will learn basic fundamentals, rules, and skills necessary to gain the winning edge. $30-35, Mueller Park Frontier Building 5:30p (beginning), 6:30p (intermediate) Magic Draft Night The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 6:30p Sleepy Time Tales (thru 12.10) Children aged 3-5 will enjoy an engaging story and activity with a parent or caregiver just before bedtime. Parents are not required to stay in the room but must stay in the building. Children may wear pj's to this late evening story time. Please preregister at the front desk or call to reserve your spot today! Mt Zion District Library [115 W Main, 864.3622, www.mtzion.lib.il.us] 6:30-7:30p Knit Night Bring your own knitting projects. Share with others and learn from each other! Free (member), $3 (nonmember), Decatur Area Arts Council [125 N Water]
Stevie Ray Kelton Trivia Night (thru 12.18) Lincoln Square Lounge [121 N Main, 50 different questions in 10 423.2180] 9p-1a categories to benefit the United Way. $10 (person). Wild Dog Saloon EVERY TUESDAY-THURSDAY [815 S 22nd St] - 12.4, McGorray's Staley Striders Indoor Track & Golf & Grille [2927 N Water] -12.11, Field Club (12.10-2.20) The Lincoln Lounge [121 N Main] Youth aged 7-14 may focus on 12.18. 6:30p (Sign-up), 7p (Trivia) skills mastery within a positive atmosphere. $46-55, DISC [1295 Mobile Soundz Karaoke W Wood, 429.3472, decatur-parks. Featuring Troy Hayes. Woody's Bar org] 4-5p [1190 W South Side Dr] 9p-1a EVERY WEDNESDAY Open Mic Night Coffee Club (except 12.25) Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Oakland St] 9:30p Warrensburg, 672.3621] 9:30a Karaoke & Water Pong Toddler Time (thru 12.11) Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] Children aged 18 mo-3 yrs are 10p-2a welcome to joins us as we sing, dance, read a story, and more. EVERY WEDNESDAY, Parent or caregiver is asked to stay FRIDAY-SUNDAY Club Ice (thru 3.9) in the room. Please preregister at the front desk or call to reserve your Ice skating is going to be more fun than ever! $6, Decatur Civic Center spot. Mt Zion District Library [115 W Main, 864.3622, www.mtzion.lib. [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza] 4-6p (We), 4-6p & 7:30-9:30p (Fr), 3:30-5:30p & il.us] 9:30-10a 7:30-9:30p (Sa), 1-3p (Su) Music for a Season of Joy (thru 12.18) EVERY WEDNESDAYAdvent concerts and complimentary SATURDAY Docta LD DJ/Karaoke lunch. Organist Mark Gifford -12.4, Curly’s Bar & Pizza [2683 N Water, Harpist Christina Marshall - 12.11, Rachel West Kramer and the Kramer 875.9800] 9p-2a Family - 12.18. Call or go online EVERY THURSDAY for tickets. First Baptist Church Story Time (thru 12.12) [1320 Arbor Dr, 875.8034, www. Children 3-5 years old are welcome decaturfbc.com] 11:15a-1:15p to join us for an engaging story and activities. Parent/s or caregiver/s HeroClix Sanctioned are not required to stay in the room Tournament for this event but must stay in the Collectible miniatures game that building. Please preregister at the uses the Clix system that centers front desk or call to reserve your around the world of superhero comic books, especially the Marvel spot today. Mt Zion District Library [115 W Main, 864.3622, www. and DC Comics universes. $15-20, The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, mtzion.lib.il.us] 10-11a Mt Zion, 864.1851] 6:30p Write Stuff Writers' Group Support, encouragement, and Wednesday Night Board Gaming with the critiques for writers in all stages Decatur Gamers of development. Wildflour Artisan Play your favorite tabletop game, or Bakery & Cafe [256 W Main] 3:30p try a new one! Free, Board Knight Family Fun Night [266 N State Rt 121, Warrensburg, Our demo section is full of fun boardknight.com] 6p games free for use. The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 3-10p
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December Events Adult Coed Volleyball Leagues (thru 12.12) These active, fast paced 6-on-6 volleyball leagues include coed competitive and recreational teams. $175 (team), DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 6-10p
Santa House (thru 12.24) Free [Downtown Decatur] 4p (Fr), 10a (Sa)
EVERY SATURDAY Super Saturday Recess (thru 2.1) Back by popular demand! Super Saturday Recess allows kids aged 4-11 to enjoy an active Saturday Thirsty Thursday Great tunes, food and drink specials, morning with inflatables, scooters, DJ & karaoke. The Pourhouse [3925 basketball, tumbling, and more! The rock wall will be available on select E Fairies Pkwy] dates. Parents must be present. No Stevie Ray Kelton registration necessary. $3.50, DISC Sliderz, 9:30p-1:30a [1295 W Wood, decatur-parks.org, 429.3472] 10a-12p Mobile Soundz Karaoke Featuring Troy Hayes. Pop's Place Kaijudo Tournament Card game based on the famous [4335 W Main] 9p-1a cartoon. Plays similar to Magic the DJ David Lee Gathering but great for kids 8+. Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] $10 (includes lunch), The Hidden 10p-2a Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 11a EVERY FRIDAY Friday Night Magic Magic the Gathering Weekly tournament consisting of Win a box. $10, The Hidden Lair [320 both standard & modern formats. N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 5p $5, Board Knight [266 N State Rt 121, Warrensburg, boardknight.com] EVERY SUNDAY Yu-Gi-Oh 6:30p Win a box sanctioned tournament. Magic First place gets a full box of the Standard and constructed formats current booster set. $10, The Hidden available. Prize payout up to 3 packs Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, of boosters per participant, $12 864.1851] 1p value. $5, The Hidden Lair [320 N St HeroClix Sanctioned Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 6:30p Tournament EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY Collectible miniatures game that Wine Tastings uses the Clix system that centers The Decanter Fine Wines around the world of superhero [215 N Main St, 422.9463] comic books, especially the Marvel 4-7p (Fr), 1-6p (Sa) and DC Comics universes. $15-20, The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 5p
Win-a-Box Tournament Bring your Magic the Gathering deck and play to win a booster box or special prize! $10, Board Knight [266 N. Rt 121, Warrensburg, boardknight.com] 5p Sunday, 1 Black and Orange Christmas Kick-Off Black Friday turns into Black and Orange Saturday and Sunday weekend! We’ll have snacks and coffee available for all of our tired shoppers, along with gift wrapping and a super special treat that is ONLY available during this event! Coziahr H-D [150 W Marion, Forsyth, www.coziahrhd.com] Le Pew! Peeeeeuw! What's that smell? Join us as we explore the wonderful world of skunks by looking at scat replicas, tracks, and pelts! We might even stumble upon a skunk den on our hike! Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 2p Tombstone Bullet Blues Band Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 3-6p Chili Cook-off/Chili Dinner Bethel 49 Job’s Daughters Masonic Youth. 50/50 raffle and games. $5 (adult), $3 (under 8), Free (under 2), Decatur Masonic Temple [224 W William] 4p Nativity Tour Members of the church spent the summer months designing and constructing a custom Fontanini, lighted, life size nativity to display in the front lawn of the church. The church will be filled with nativity collections from all over the world. First Baptist Church [1320 Arbor Dr, www.decaturfbc.com] 4-6p Sons of the Father West Decatur Church of God [4500 W Main St] 6p
Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!
Unspoken $5 (at the door), First Church of the Nazarene [1177 W Hickory Point Rd, www.firstnazarene.com, 875.0616] 7p 12.1-12.13 Noah Kirby & Alison Ouellette-Kirby Sculpture Exhibition Communication was the foundation of this exhibit as the artists discovered that while people may basically be saying the same thing, individual regional differences may make their messages seem different. Reflecting this concept globally, the semantics of people's conversations frequently get in the way of their dialog and what is actually heard. The large and small sculptures make communication "touchable" and will provide revelations to the viewer. Perkinson Gallery [Millikin University] 12-5p (Mo-Fr) Disabled Development: Drawings by Bill Amundson Bill creates highly detailed pencil drawings that are witty, humorous, and fun. He explores a variety of topics in a clever and unexpected way to comment on contemporary society. Richland Community College [Erlanson Gallery] 10a-3p (Mo-Fr)
Main, Warrensburg, barclay.lib.il.us, 672.3621] 10:30a Books Between Bites The River Why by David James Duncan, River Music: A Fly Fisher's Four Seasons by James R Babb. Decatur Public Library [Madden Auditorium, www.decaturlibrary. org] 12:15p After 5 Live The gallery will be filled with holiday cheer and gifts and homemade crafts for under $100! Blue Connection [117 N Water, www.millikin.edu/blueconnection, 428.0112] 4-8p Wednesday Women Gather in the cocktail lounge to plan your shopping strategy before the Downtown Christmas Walk. Return to show off your success! The Decatur Club [158 W Prairie] 4p
12.4-12.30 Xmas ARTicles Unique holiday shopping! Affordable, original art and fine crafts from 50 artists! This shop includes jewelry, purses, woodworking, baskets, knitted wearables, paintings, photography, ceramics, custom soaps, funky furniture, ornaments and more. Madden Arts Center [125 N Water, 423.3189, www.decaturarts.org] 8:30a-4:30p (Mo, Tu, We, Fr), 8:30a-7p (Th), 10a-4p (Sa) Thursday, 5 ISE Speaker Series Executives from science ventures will be discussing particular aspects of their business plus broader topics of interest. Open to the public. Leighty-Tabor Science Center [Millikin University] 6p
Downtown Christmas Walk Downtown [Decatur] 5-8p
Friday, 6 Fan the Flame Christian Concert CASA Open House Featuring Mikeschair, Finding Open House with food and caroling. Favour, and City Harbor. Come & [140 S Water, Ste 100, www. join us for an evening of family maconcountycasa.org] 4:30-8p entertainment. $5-15, First Christian Church [100 N Jackson, Clinton, Xmas ARTicles 935.3139] 7p Unique holiday shopping! Affordable, original art and fine Christian Concert Series 12.3-12.4 crafts from 50 artists! Live music and Christmas Tour with Mark Schultz. Desperate Affection Audition holiday treats! Madden Arts Center Christmas acoustic show. For Both nights are open to the [125 N Water, www.decaturarts.org, more info go online. $20, Mt Zion community, with no callback 423.3189] 5-8p Convention Center [1400 Mt Zion session. Michelle Stephens will Parkway, Mt Zion, www.mtzion.com, Tudor Voices Carol Singing direct. The cast requires one male 864.5424] 7:30-9:30p Gallery Walk [Downtown Decatur] and one female, whose chemistry 5:30p can carry the audience through The Fabulous HoeDads this twisting, dark comedy. Schmalz The Winery [1093 W Main] 8-11p King of Tokyo Tournament Rehearsal Hall [131 N Water, Come out and play in a King of theatre7.net] 6:30p Bones Jugs N Harmony Tokyo tournament for prizes! With Mike Tasch and Olivia Wednesday, 4 $5, Board Knight [266 N Rt 121, Fehrenbacher. Donnie's Homespun Greater Decatur Warrensburg, boardknight.com] 6p Pizza [126 S Oakland] 9p Chamber Breakfast Decatur Leadership Institute project 12.4-12.5 12.6-12.8 presentations. $10-15, The Decatur Comedy Hour The Nutcracker Zach Martina and Gerry Grossman. Reserve seating required. $10, Club [158 W Prairie] 7-8a $10-12, Main Hangar [910 S Airport Richland Community College Wednesday Book Club Rd, mainhangarrestaurant.net, [Shilling Auditorium, 875.7200] We get the books and you read 421.7452] 8:30p 7:30p (Fr, Sa), 2:30p (Su) them! To register contact the library. Barclay Public Library [220 S
november 2013 | 21
December Events Saturday, 7 Boy Scout Breakfast Downtown [Moweaqua] 6-10a
Heavenly Holiday Bazaar Cookie walk, luncheon, crafters, bake sale. Mt Calvary Lutheran Church [2055 S Franklin, 428.0641] 7a-2p
available from 11a-1p. Forsyth United Methodist Church [210 Ruehl St, Forsyth, www.forsythumc. com] 9a-2p
Christmas on Main Over 40 vendors. Music! Hot chocolate and cookies, train rides, carriage rides free all day. Decorate a cookie (ages 2-10), Decorate a Breakfast with Santa light pole contest, Santa's arrival Enjoy breakfast with Santa & Mrs. (2p), Live nativity (4p), Masonic Chili Claus and make a holiday craft! Must Supper (5p). Village of Moweaqua be pre-paid and pre-registered. Cost [Moweaqua] 9a-5p includes admission to Museum. $7 (member), $10 (non-member), Perform! Bugsy Malone, Jr Auditions Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Students in grades 1-12 are Country Club Rd, www.cmofil.org, encouraged to audition. Call backs 423.5437] 8:30-10a on 12.8. $125-140, Poage Arts & 24th Annual Cookie Walk Recreation Center [2020 N Oakland, A large variety of homemade www.decatur-parks.org, 422.5911] holiday cookies and candies will be 9a-12p & 1-4p available for purchase, for only $5 per pound. Come early for the best Reindeer Poker Run selection. Barclay Public Library [220 Fun run, no timing, no registration S Main, Warrensburg, barclay.lib.il.us, fee. One or two loop run on the Red Tail Golf Course. Each loop is a 5K. 672.3621] 9a-12p Hot chocolate, coffee, and smores Baum School to follow the run. Families welcome. Annual Christmas Bazaar For more information, go to Over 70 vendors! Handcrafted items, facebook.com. Red Tail Golf Course cookie walk, 50/50 raffle, breakfast [520 W Grove] 9-11a & lunch by The Wharf Restaurant. Baum School [801 W Lake Ridge Santa Claus is Coming to Town Ave, 424.3259] 9a-2p Bring your list and come tell Santa what you want for Christmas. Bazaar We will be serving refreshments Join us for our annual bazaar! and making crafts. Blue Mound Event includes a cookie walk, silent Memorial Library [213 N St auction, Christmas collectables Marie, Blue Mound, www. (all 75% off!), many holiday gifts bluemoundlibrary.lib.il.us, 692.2774] and unique items. Lunch will be 9:30a-12p Dulcimer Club Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 10a-12p
Gingerbread Workshop Join us for our version of this holiday tradition - without the baking! Must be pre-paid and pre-registered. 4 people max per house. Cost includes admission to Museum. $15 per house (member), $20 per house (non-member), Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, www.cmofil.org, 423.5437] 10-11:30a Winter Walk-in Canvas Space is limited; call to register. $50 (per class), The Perfect Pair Antiques & Salon [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] Three classes: 10a, 12p & 2p. Lunch with Santa The Fireplace [109 E Main, Maroa, maroaillinois.org] 11a-1p Pictures with Santa Santa is coming to Coziahr H-D again this year and everyone is invited! Stop by from 11am-2pm to give Santa your wish list and get a FREE picture with him and his new H-D ride! Coziahr H-D [150 W Marion, Forsyth, www.coziahrhd. com] 11a-2p 24th Annual Christmas High Tea Join us for this special afternoon. A full English high tea will be served. Included in this array are sweets, treats and tea sandwiches of all sorts. Don't forget the camera and your child should bring their favorite doll. Pre-registration, prepay required. $22, Mari-Mann Herb Farm [1405 Mari Mann Lane, www. marimann.com] 12-2p Children's Christmas Craft Camp Join us for a full day of Christmas crafts, lunch provided. School age children only. Registration required. $48, Fletcher Park [Recreation Center, Mt Zion, www.mtzion.com, 864.5424] 12-6p
Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!
Community Game Day Family-friendly group playing board, card, and role-playing games. Games available or bring your own. This event is open to everyone in the Decatur area who is looking for a fun time on Saturday. Salvation Army Community Center [229 W Main, www.decaturgamers.com] 1p
The Lone Oak Boys Anticipation Matt Carter, Tyler Bundy, and friends. Mound Chapel Church of God [109 Call for reservations. Paco's Sol Bistro Manchester Dr] 6:30p [237 N Main, 330.6483] 8-11p Monday, 9 Brian Pehr Cooking School Hitmen and a Dame Brian will show us the procedures Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland to prepare these tantalizing dishes St] 9p-12a and entertain us with his wit and Retrospect open style. Call for reservations in Wild Dog Saloon [815 S 22nd] 9:30p advance; payment must be received Pajama Party with Santa prior to the event to hold your spot. Santa is coming to Scovill Zoo! Bring 12.7-12.8 $22-25, Mari-Mann Herbs [1405 your favorite pillow, wear you PJ’s, Mari-Mann Lane, www.marimann. and visit with Santa while you make Vespers com, 429.1555] 6-8p a Christmas craft, decorate yummy Kirkland Fine Arts Center [Millikin cookies, and have close encounters University, 424.6318] 3p & 7p Jazz Combo with some amazing animals. Ages Sunday, 8 Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland 3-10. Parents must be present. Blue Grass Music Jams St] 6p $12-15, Scovill Zoo [71 S Country Rock Springs Nature Center Club Rd, www.decatur-parks.org, [3939 Nearing Ln, www. Tuesday, 10 421.7435] 1-3p, & 5-7p. maconcountyconservation.org, December Family Book Bash 423.7708] 1-4p Children will listen to The Three Snow Into the Wild-Evergreens Bears by popular author and artist Fill the holidays with beauty and Victorian Christmas Tea Jan Brett. Create a wintery craft fragrance! Participants will enjoy Complimentary cookies and hot and have a special snack. Perfect making holiday decorations from cider will be served. This nationally for families with children ages 0-7! the Eastern Red Cedar. This was a $1 (member), $6 (non-member), favorite activity during the 1800s by registered historic building will be children and adults alike. Everyone adorned with holiday décor and the Free (under 2), Children's Museum event includes music, a boutique of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, will take home a holiday beauty. and bakery sale featuring homewww.cmofil.org, 423.5437] 9-9:45a Res reqd. Rock Springs Nature made cookies, candies and cakes. & 10-10:45a. Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. Free, James Millikin Homestead [125 maconcountyconservation.org, N Pine, performance.millikin.edu/ American Girl Club 423.7708] 2p millikinhomestead, 422.9003] 1-4p Join us for our American Girl Club where we introduce the history Diversity Family Science Sunday and culture of America during the Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland Join us for a hands-on science different settings of the American St] 3:30-5:30p workshop for families. Children Girl stories and enjoy fun activities will be able to create a special and crafts. No doll required! Ages Kidd Kaddilac and the winter project! Each child receives 7+, please register. Mt Zion District Continentals Annual a free tote bag. Pre-registration is Christmas Party Library [115 W Main, Mt Zion, www. encouraged. $5 (non-member), Free mtzion.lib.il.us, 864.3622] 4:30-5:30p Rockin' out to raise funds for the (member), Children's Museum of Obesity Prevention Coalition and Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, www. Christmas Party Decatur Cares Rescue Missions. $5 Maranatha Assembly of God admission. Sliderz [5995 E Rt 36] 4p cmofil.org, 423.5437] 2-3p [555 W Imboden Dr, www. Folk Tales & Music Christmas Around the gardenclubofdecatur.com] 6p Award-winning storytellers Linda World Parade Dust and Dan Keding will entertain Open Mic with Santa will be at the Mt Zion Antone & Friends Firehouse after the parade with hot participants with folk tales and music. Recommended ages 10+. $7, Whether you play an instrument, chocolate and cookies. No charge Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Café [256 sing, or just like to listen, join us for for parade entries. Downtown Mt our open mic night with Antone & W Main] 2-4p Zion [Main Street, Mt Zion, www. Friends. Please bring a dish to share. mtzion.com, 620.3350] 6p Velvet Groove Band It's a great time for the whole family. Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 3-6p Antioch Christian Church [5409 E Rt 36, 864.3444] 6-9p Declaration Salem Baptist Church [2650 S Taylorville Rd] 6p
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December Events D'Brew Crew McGorray's Golf & Grille [2927 N Water] 7p
John Donze - Country Folk Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland] 10p
12.10 & 12.14 Epoxy Turntable Must be available for both days. Create your own turntable. We will show you how to make a beautiful piece for any dining table or kitchen counter. It is a great gift to give yourself or a loved one. Space is limited; call to register. $125, The Perfect Pair Antiques & Salon [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] 5:30-8:30p (Tu) & 2-4p (Sa)
12.12-12.14 A Queer Carol Ben Scrooge and Jake Marley are partners. Based on the Dickens classic A Christmas Carol, this contemporary gay retelling portrays Marilyn Monroe as the Ghost of Christmas Past and has an appearance by Bob Cratchit’s partner, Tim. $10-11, Pipe Dreams Studio [1099 W Wood, www. pdtheatre.com] 7:30p (Th, Fr), 2p (Sa)
Wednesday, 11 Culinary Arts Luncheon $10, Richland Community College [Shilling Center, 875.7211 x740] Seating between 11:30a-12:30p Thursday, 12 Book Discussion Full of Grace by Dorothea Benton Frank. Argenta Library [100 E Water, Argenta, 795.2144] 1:30-2:30p Boy Scout Forestry Badge Workshop Earn all your requirements for this woodsy badge. Make a tree ID kit, learn about forest types and see what careers foresters are involved in. Ages 10+. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708] 5-8p Thursday "Bored" Game Night Bored on a Thursday night with nothing to do? Join us for an evening of board game fun! Free, Diamonds Family Restaurant [2959 N Oakland, www.decaturgamers. com] 5:30p
Solstice: A Concert of Dance Line, tension, dynamics, design, pulse, rhythm, and order all come together in an exciting display of physical power and elegance in this collection of student and faculty choreographed works. $8, Albert Taylor Theatre [Millikin University, 424.6318] 7:30p (Th, Fr), 2p (Sa) Friday, 13 National Cocoa Day Free hot chocolate at the library all day! Barclay Public Library [220 S Main, Warrensburg, barclay.lib.il.us] 9a-5p Christmas Art Jam! Drop off the kids and get your Christmas shopping done or join your kids for the arty fun! Kids will make ornaments and art with various materials, play games, listen to Christmas music, eat snacks and watch movies. Kids are welcome to wear pajamas! $20 (child), $50 (family), Free (adults with paying child), Madden Arts Center [125 N Water, www.decaturarts.org, 423.3189] 5:30-8:30p
Create a Tea Towel with Me Each child and/or parent will create a tea towel of their own design. A perfect way to create fun memories with your children, grandchildren, nieces, and/or nephews. Space is limited; call to register. $15-25, The Perfect Pair Antiques & Salon [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] 5:30-7:30p Cocoa & Cookies with Santa Enjoy hot cocoa and cookies with Santa and also make a holiday craft! Must be pre-paid and preregistered. Cost includes admission to the Museum. $7 (member), $10 (non-member), Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, www.cmofil.org, 423.5437] 6-8p LHP Call for reservations. Paco's Sol Bistro [237 N Main, 330.6483] 8-11p 12.13-12.15 The World of Christmas Tabernacle Baptist Church [650 N Wykles, www.tbcdecatur.org, 877.5653] 7p Saturday, 14 Holiday in the Halls Crafts Show Shop for one-of-a-kind handmade presents. We will be serving a warm lunch to keep you going, plus a Cookie Walk to buy all the goodies for your Christmas celebrations! Decatur Christian School [137 S Grant, Forsyth] 8a-3p Breakfast with Santa Donuts, milk and coffee served. Crafts and holiday stories. Illini Park Building [Warrensburg] 9-11a Cookie Walk Maroa Library [305 E Garfield, Maroa, maroaillinois.org] 9a-12p
Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!
First LEGO League Robot Tournament The public is invited to watch area teams' robots competing to score as many mission points as possible in 2 1/2 minutes. Each team builds its own robot using only LEGO pieces. This year's mission and project theme is "Nature's Fury." Hope Academy [955 N Calhoun, Free, open to the public] 9a-3p Goodie Walk Goodie walk and shopping day! Blue Mound Memorial Library [213 N St Marie, Blue Mound, www. bluemoundlibrary.lib.il.us, 692.2774] 9a-12p Santa Is Flying In‌ to Decatur Airport Santa will fly in from the North Pole to read a story, hear Christmas wishes, and hand out goodies, including trading cards featuring the Airport's amazing fire truck and snowplow! A breakfast buffet is included, and reservations are required. $6.99 (adult), $2.99 (ages 4-10), free (ages 3 and under), Decatur Airport [910 S Airport Rd, 421.7452] 9a-12p 2nd Saturday Book Sale Looking for a hidden gem or a favorite movie? Check out the Friends of the Library Second Saturday Used Book Sale. Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, www.decaturlibrary.org, 424.2900] 9:30a-12:30p Animal Crackers Class Children aged 3-5 will listen to the story Animals in Winter, look at different animal pelts, meet a few furry animals, create a wolf puppet with their adult guest(s) and snack on animal crackers! $9-10, Scovill Zoo [71 S Country Club Rd, www. decatur-parks.org, 421.7435] 9:3010:15a & 11-11:45a. Preschool Peepers Pioneer Toys What did children play with in the pioneer days? Were their toys like ours? Join one of our naturalists to discover old-time toys that children
used to play with. A few might even look familiar! Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 10a Standard Turntable Create your own turntable, sometimes known as a lazy susan. We will show you how to make a beautiful piece for any dining table or kitchen counter. Space is limited; call to register. $85, The Perfect Pair Antiques & Salon [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] 10a-1p Keepsake Ornament Craft Drop in to make a special keepsake ornament. Barclay Public Library [220 S Main, Warrensburg, barclay. lib.il.us] 10:30a-12p Mt Zion Odd Fellows Frosty 5K That time of year again to get rid of the stress of Christmas shopping with a 5K run and an "all you can eat" hot meal of Italian beef and chili along with refreshments and door prizes. $10, Mt Zion Odd Fellows Lodge [Mt Zion] 11a Saturday Book Club We get the books and you read them! To register contact the library. Barclay Public Library [220 S Main, Warrensburg, barclay.lib.il.us, 672.3621] 11a Free Photos with Santa Light snacks will be served, and children will receive a coloring book about the true meaning of Christmas. Photos will be printed immediately and given to parents. Christ United Methodist Church [1053 N Summit] 1-3p
19th Annual Essie Lee Travis Scholarship Tea Free; however, donations will be accepted at the door to help continue our scholarship giving. Antioch Missionary Baptist Church [530 W Mound, 422.2698] 4-6p Ugly Sweater Party Bring a dish to share at this potluck. Prizes awarded for different categories. Rusty's [Junction Rt 32 & 36, LaPlace, 677.2205] 5p-1a All Through the Night All invited to attend. Dinner (6p), Cantata (7p). Emmanuel Southern Baptist Church [1255 S Lakeridge Ave] 6-8p GLAD Social Charismas social and gift exchange. TBD [www.gladdecatur.com] 6:30p Holiday Jazz Concert $5-20, Kirkland Fine Arts Center [Millikin University, 424.6318] 7:30p Gutterbound Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 9:30p-1:30a The Great Waltz Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland] 10p 12.14 & 12.28 NFT Underground Flea Market Lots of great deals. Antiques, collectibles, hot wheels, jewelry, and more. Never Forgotten Thymes [726 E Cerro Gordo] 10a-4p Sunday, 15 MDSO: Advent Services The Millikin Decatur Symphony Orchestra joins the musicians of Central Christian Church in services of the season. A Decatur Christmas tradition. Free, Central Christian Church [650 W William] 8:15a & 10:45a
A Christmas Carol Matinee with cookies and punch to follow. Dinner theatre available for evening show. $10 (show), $25 (dinner & show), Heartland Community Church-Grand Appalachian Orchestra Palace [3253 N Brush College Rd, midsummermoonproductions.com, Bluegrass music. Free (donations encouraged), Wildflour Artisan 468.2658] 2p & 7p Bakery & CafĂŠ [256 W Main] 12p Decatur Big Band Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland St] 3:30-5:30p
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December Events Christmas Tea at Oglesby Mansion 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, www.oglesbymansion.org] 1-4p Christmas Craft Join us as we prepare for the holidays! Decorate wrapping paper, ornaments, and even create a snowman out of acorns, sweet gum balls and other things found in nature. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 2p
Wednesday, 18 Senior Bingo Join us for a fun game of bingo and win prizes. Free, Fletcher Park [Recreation Center, Mt Zion, www. mtzion.com, 864.5424] 10a Open Game Night Family-friendly group playing board, card, and role-playing games. Games available or bring your own. Doherty's Pub & Pins [242 E William, www.decaturgamers.com] 5:30p 12.18-12.19 Comedy Hour Natasha Pearl Hansen and Mike Stanley. $10-12, Main Hangar [910 S Airport Rd,mainhangarrestaurant. net, 421.7452] 8:30p
Biscuit Miller Blues Band Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 3-6p
Thursday, 19 Book Club Christmas Promise by Anne Perry. Singles/Couples Dance Live Band. $10, Knights of Columbus Decatur Public Library [Board Room, www.decaturlibrary.org, 424.2900] Hall [520 E North St, www. 12/19 1p dancingdates.com, 875.3090] 5-8p Tuesday, 17 Twinkle, Jingle, Sparkle [www.gardenclubofdecatur.com] 11a The Sky's the Limit Explore the wonders of science and technology in a fun way. Ages 7+, please register. Mt Zion District Library [115 W Main, Mt Zion, www. mtzion.lib.il.us, 864.3622] 4:30-5:30p Family Photos Serving Tray or Hanging Window Space is limited; call to register. $95, The Perfect Pair Antiques & Salon [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] 5:30-8:30p
Friday, 20 Family Fun Night Float and flick in the pool, snacks and games. Free (member), $5 (prospective), Decatur Family YMCA [220 W McKinley, www. decaturymca.org] 6:30p The Dowd Family Third Friday Sing Boody Southern Baptist [5925 N Main, Boody, boodybaptistchurch. com] 7p Jesse Hite Lincoln Lounge [121 N Main] 9p Saturday, 21 Dulcimer Club Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 10a-12p
Family Fun - Winter Solstice Fun Ever wonder what the Winter Solstice was all about? Come out to Rock Springs Nature Center to discover the mysteries, legends and facts about the Winter Solstice. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 1:30p Super Kids' Club Tickets at the door only. Concession specials also. Come celebrate with Spunky the Squirrel, Spider Man, Granny Giggles and the Gary Strong Marionettes. $5 (adults), Lincoln Square Theatre [141 N Main, www. lincolnsquaretheatre.com] 2-3:30p Craig Russo Latin Jazz Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland St] 3:30-5:30p Acoustica The Winery [1093 W Main] 8-11p Create a Tea Towel with Me Each child and/or parent will create a tea towel of their own design. A perfect way to create fun memories with your children, grandchildren, nieces, and/or nephews. Space is limited; call to register. $15-25, The Perfect Pair Antiques & Salon [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] 9-11p Sunday, 22 Children's Winter Story Time It's winter time and nothing is better than hearing a good story! Join a naturalist and listen to a good story on a cold winter day. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www.maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 2p Monday, 23 Scott & Bman - Christmas Eve Eve Celebration The Winery [1093 W Main] 8-11p
Dates, times and locations are subject to last-minute changes. When in doubt, call first!
12.23-1.3 Christmas Break Basketball Junior high/high school youth aged 14-18. $20 (member), $30 (prospective), Decatur Family YMCA [220 W McKinley, www. decaturymca.org, 872.9622] times vary by age.
LHP Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland St] 9p-12a
Saturday, 28 Holiday Relief Hike Feeling a little groggy from the holidays? A nice, brisk hike through the woods should remedy that! Join 12.23, 12.26-12.27, & 12.30 one of our naturalists for a postWinter Break Day Camp holiday adventure! Rock Springs When school is not in session, youth Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, aged 5-13 can come to the DISC www.maconcountyconservation. to enjoy rock climbing, volleyball, org, 423.7708] 2p basketball, soccer, and great field trips! For a list of field trip locations, Diversity go to webpage. 15% discount each Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland addl sibling. $32-37 (per day), DISC St] 3:30-5:30p [1295 W Wood, www.decatur-parks. Jesse Hite org, 429.3472] 6:30a-6p Crawford's Pizza & Pub [105 W Main, Tuesday, 24 Maroa] 8p Santa's Workshop Children aged 3-5. $5 (member), Sunday, 29 Carnivores of Macon County $10 (prospective), Decatur Family What's that noise? What left these YMCA [220 W McKinley, www. tracks? Learn about the carnivores decaturymca.org, 872.9622] of Macon County while we explore 12.26-12.28 their habitat and look for clues. Winter Break Baseball Camp We might even spot a carnivore This challenging 3-day camp on our hike! Rock Springs Nature for youth aged 7-16 covers the Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. fundamentals of throwing, catching, maconcountyconservation.org, fielding, pitching, hitting and base 423.7708] 2p running. Batting cages and full gym Tuesday, 31 will be used. $51-61, DISC [1295 Pajama Party Mini-Camp W Wood, www.decatur-parks.org, What do the animals do in the 429.3472] 8-10a winter? Furry adventures will 12.26-12.28 be had as we learn about what Comedy Hour animals do during the cold months. Kevin Kinner and AJ Finney. $10Participants can join in the fun by 12, Main Hangar [910 S Airport wearing their favorite pajamas, Rd, mainhangarrestaurant.net, which keep us warm just like an 421.7452] 8:30p animals' fur! Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. Friday, 27 maconcountyconservation.org, Kids Movie 423.7708] 9:30-10:30a (ages 1-4) & Beat the Christmas break boredom 1-2p (ages 3-4) with a free movie and popcorn at the library! Barclay Public Library Happy Noon Year [220 S Main, Warrensburg, barclay. Perfect for those who don't stay lib.il.us] 1p up late, the confetti will fly at our balloon drop at noon! Enjoy a dance Nonfiction Book Club party, fun photo booth, and festive In the President's Secret Service by crafts! $1 (member), $6 (nonRonald Kessler. Decatur Public member), Free (under 2), Children's Library [Board Room, www. Museum of Illinois [55 S Country decaturlibrary.org, 424.2900] 1p Club Rd, www.cmofil.org] 10a-2p
2 Miles to MILES The race starts at the Y, winds through the neighborhood and in from of DMH and then onto Miles Nissan, an out and back course. $18-28, Decatur Family YMCA [220 W McKinley, www.decaturymca.org, 872.3835, ext 146] 2p Ice Skating Party Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, www. decaturciviccenter.org] LHP Ring in the New Year with your favorite people at your favorite place! Call early for reservations; they'll be gone before you realize this year's over! Paco's Sol Bistro [237 N Main, 330.6483] New Year's Eve Party $15 (member), $20 (prospective), Decatur Family YMCA [220 W McKinley, www.decaturymca.org, 872.9622] 7p-1a NYE Celebration Prime rib dinner (5-7p). Comedians Greg Warren and Henry Phillips (7-9p). Hitmen and a Dame (9p-1a). New Year's Day brunch. Decatur Conference Center [4191 US 36 W, hoteldecatur.com] 5p Open Game Night Family-friendly group playing board, card, and role-playing games. Games available or bring your own. Mancino's Pizza and Grinders [2805 N Main, www.decaturgamers.com] 5:30p Great Gatsby Casino Night When the gin was cold and the piano was hot, come ring in the New Year while stepping back in time to the 1920's! Includes casino, band, all you can eat appetizers, cash bar, and raffle. $55, Mt Zion Convention Center [1400 Mt Zion Parkway, Mt Zion, www.mtzion. com] 7p-12:30a Hipbone Sam Kitchen open from 11a-8p. Party favors and champagne at 12a. Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 9p-1a Happy New Year!
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Dancing Dates written by Angela Myers | photos by Sarah Jane Music, it’s said, is the international language. When you add dance, language is almost unnecessary, as Steve and Marty Harris discovered last year in Mexico.
That’s one reason Steve started the Dancing Dates website—to help people who want to dance find one another—even if they’re only passing through the area.
“People were there from five different countries,” said Steve. “We couldn’t speak to one another, but we danced. You can find people everywhere who have dancing in common.”
“Dancers are usually looking for something to do. When we traveled, it was tough to find out where to go—what was going on,” he said. “Now we get people from out of state just driving through, and they find the web site.”
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Steve first put the web page together when he and Marty lived in Fort Wayne, Indiana. “Our circle of friends was always trying to decide where to meet. I had a little spare time, and I came up with the idea to start a calendar.”
Marty, choir director at First Christian Church in Springfield, had always wanted to add dancing to her musical accomplishments but was concerned about learning because she has very limited vision. Steve said he’d help her, so she was willing to try. Later, when she was having trouble learning a step In fact, it was his idea that they learn to because she couldn’t see it well enough, she dance in the first place. “In 1998,” says Marty, approached the instructor to explain that “he just said, ‘Let’s take dance lessons.’” she needed extra help—only to realize that their instructor, too, was legally blind.
Bonus Pick of the Month
For the Nonconformist What's that you say? You're looking for cards that don't particularly relate to any holiday? We've found just the thing for you! We popped into Wethington's Fresh Flowers & Gifts, Inc. on 145 S Oakland Ave in Decatur and found these "That's All" greeting cards that made us laugh out loud. To read the story of how they were born, visit www.ThatsAllGreetings.com. Here are our favorites: Just a reminder that my Birthday is next week. Inside: That's All You are just not right. Inside: That's All I just joined Hoarders Anonymous. Never throw this away. Inside: That's All december 2013 | 29
“Now, it’s a rare occasion that we don’t dance every week,” says Steve, adding that they have since become dance instructors themselves. The couple has a varied repertoire, including the foxtrot, rumba, tango, mambo, cha-cha, merengue, polka, waltz, bolero, salsa and several versions of swing.
the social dance opportunities that can be found in mid-America. A surprising number of clubs in Central Illinois schedule dances regularly. At the Decatur Knights of Columbus, Jan Loftus organizes dances every third Sunday from 5 to 8 p.m.
“The cha-cha is my favorite,” says Marty. “And “We have a nice big dance floor,” says Jan. we like swing because we can dance it to so “Fifty-four hundred square feet.” That means plenty of room for dancers to move, whether many kinds of music.” they like fast swing, a sweeping waltz or the When the couple moved to Springfield occasional slinky tango. eleven years ago for Steve’s job with Levi, Ray & Shoup Inc., Steve started the Central “Some people even dance ‘freestyle’,” says Jan, explaining that it’s OK to dance even Illinois Dancing Dates web site. when you don’t really know how. “The Midwest does a better job of having dances than other parts of the country,” says The K of C dances usually have live bands Steve, observing that even larger cities on that play a wide variety of music to appeal the East and West Coasts often don’t offer to about anyone.
REGISTER
NOW
CLASSES BEGIN JANUARY 13 Our Schedule has GONE PAPERLESS! All of our courses are now searchable online at richland.edu/registration One College Park | Decatur, Illinois 62521 | 217.875.7200 | richland.edu 30 | december 2013
“We get people from all around,” says Jan. “I used to keep track, and we had dancers come from 76 different towns. We even had some from out of state who were here visiting their kids.”
“One couple in their 70s came to us to learn their wedding dance,” says Steve, mentioning that he and Marty have known several couples who met at dances.
Anyone in the Central Illinois area who is interested in an evening of dance can check the Dancing Dates website at www. dancingdates.com for times, locations and cover charges. If you don’t know how to dance and would like to learn, several instructors are listed in the left-hand column. Anyone who is organizing a dance can get In fact, age doesn’t seem to matter to those free publicity on the web site by e-mailing who love to dance. Although many couples Steve at DancingDates@gmail.com. learn to dance after their children leave home, Steve and Marty have had students Angela Parson Myers is a freelance writer and from 10 or 11 up to those in their 80s. novelist. Her debut book, When the Moon Is Gibbous “Things we love about dance…,” says Steve, “The social interaction is excellent. It doesn’t matter if you don’t know anyone else there. It’s a safe environment for singles as well as couples. Dancing requires us to stay mentally and physically active.”
All Things Beautiful Bell’s Jewelry Haines & Essick Merle Norman Cosmetics
Destination Downtown Holiday 2013 dTown CoOp
Christmas Walk December 4 5 - 8 pm
Enjoy dancing elves, musical entertainment, carriage rides, & a performance by the Greater Decatur Chorale at Busey Bank For more information call
vents Plus 233.3391
Robbies Shop On Main Sloan’s Calzones Del’s Popcorn Shop Earthen Pottery
Brass Horn Busey Bank DAAC Mowry Baking Co. Raupps
Flora Gems Gallery 510 Giggles The Decanter Tournesol
and Waxing, released in 2012 and continues to receive rave reviews. When she’s not writing, finding the perfect geek gifts for her grandkids gets her in the holiday spirit.
december 2013 | 31
Out & About
Interwebs Edition Just some social goodness we wanted to share.
all a TWITTER United Way Decatur @uwdecatur 6 Nov #DineUnited! Go to any of these restaurants during lunch and a portion of their proceeds will go to @uwdecatur #myway http://www.uwdecatur.org/news/dine-united
PINTEREST for the win Cayla Hittmeier, Advertising Sales Manager at Herald & Review 16 Nov Pretty cool idea... Christmas Tradition - wrap up twenty-five children's books and put them under the tree with a special blanket next to them. Before bed each evening, your kids choose one book to open.
Tombstone Bullet Blues Band - Sunday, 12/1, 3-6p Velvet Groove Band - Sunday, 12/8, 3-6p Gutterbound - Saturday, 12/14, 9:30p-1:30a Biscuit Miller Blues Band (Chicago) Sunday, 12/15, 3-6p
NEW YEAR'S EVE / Hip Bone Sam
kitchen open 11a-8p, party favors, champaign at midnight
Tuesday, December 31, 9p-1a
FACEBOOK favorite Patrick Hoban, Economic Development Officer at City of Decatur Illinois 8 Nov How much do I LOVE #DecaturIL??? So much I just scheduled a site tour during the Bears Game!!! Gotta Respect the #Hustle!
december 2013 | 33
34 | december 2013
SPOT THE
DIFFERENCES For a chance to win a $30 Gift Card from The Secret Garden 1215 East Pershing Road | 217.875.9083 | www.secretgardendecatur.com
original
2 WAYS TO WIN:
1. Find all 6 differences and earn 2 entries! Send an email by Dec. 15 to contests@thrivedecatur.com that includes your name and the 6 differences. 2. Couldn’t find all the differences? Visit THRIVE Decatur on Facebook on Dec. 15 to see the password. Email us the password along with your name to earn 1 entry. Winners will be drawn on or around Dec. 16, notified by email, and published in the Jan. issue. One entry per email address.