February 2014 THRIVE Entertainment Guide

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE CHALLENGE: Main Hangar Restaurant

Engineering the Mundane: Rube Goldberg Competition

Paint Provides

New Party Palette Friends of Argenta: The Name Says It All

FREE

Feb 2014

Art Gets New Life - Reclaim. Recycle. Repurpose Crawford's Pizza & Pub Continue the Chain Reaction with Grow Decatur 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 Editor and Senior Writer: Joli Hohenstein Copy Editor: Teena Zindel-McWilliams Contributors: Jo Caulkins T. F. Dude Kim Mangan Heather Meadows Chris Phillips Sue Powell Robin Walters Photographers: Elizabeth Highcock Sarah Jane 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 | February 2014

FIND THRIVE! DECATUR, DOWNTOWN • All Things Beautiful Collectibles and Gifts • An Affair to Remember • Avon Theater • Baker Law Office • Bizou • Blue Connection • Central Illinois Title Company • Child's Play Photography • Citizens Barnes Building • Cohn Furniture • Coney McKane's • Decatur Area Convention & Visitors Bureau • Decatur Civic Center • Decatur Professional Plaza • Decatur Public Library • Doherty's Pub & Pins • Downtown Café • Downtown Fitness Club • Earthen Pottery • Embroidered Expressions • Events Plus • First Presbyterian Church • Fringe Salon • G-B's CDs • Giggles • Goodfellas • Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce • Haines & Essick Co. • Katz • KC Hall • Lockhart's Barbershop • Madden Arts Center • Main Place Bar & Grill • Merle Norman • Mowry Baking Co. • Neuhoff Media • Never Forgotten Thymes • Nova Framing/Gallery 510 • Novel Ideas • One Main Place • Paco's Sol Bistro • Park District • Pastabilities • Regions-Decatur Main • Robbies Outlet • Salon 402 • Shear Learning • Sloan's Calzones • Soy Capital Bank-North Main • Spa Villa • Speed Lube-East Eldo • Speed Lube Total Care-East Eldo • Studio 7 Salon & Day Spa • Taproot • The Decanter Fine Wine & Spirits • The Decatur Club • Tournesol • Victory Pharmacy • Wabash Depot Antique Center • Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Café • Zips Flowers by the Gates • DECATUR, EAST • ADM • Beach House • C&K Custom Signs • Caterpillar • Cedar Lake Gardens & Gifts • Children's Museum of Illinois • CrossFit Enhanced • Culver's-Aldi Dr • Debbie's Diner • Decatur Dental Care • Decatur Earthmover Credit Union-North • Decatur Surf Club • Exsalonce Studio & Day Spa • Healing Arts Boutique and Studios • Jan's East End Grill • Kroger-Airport Rd • Land of Lincoln Credit Union - 22nd & 36E locations • Linda's Music • Macon County Health Department • Personal Medical Supply • Reflection Salon • Rendezvous Bar & Grill • Renew Total Wellness • Richland Community College • Signature Salon • Solar Tan • Soy Capital Bank-Rte 36 E • Star Silkscreen • The Main Hangar Restaurant • Timbuktu • Tri Manor Motel • DECATUR, NORTH • Accelerated Rehabilitation Centers • Aloha • Area One Realtors • Benny's Grill • Bob Brady Dodge • Brinkoetter & Associates • Carlos O'Kelly's • Cartridge World • Central Illinois Hand Center • Coffee Connection • Corley Family Dental • Culver's-North Water • Curly's Bar • Decatur Animal Clinic • Decatur Back & Neck Center • Decatur Family YMCA • Decatur Memorial Hospital • Decatur Title • Diane's Mane Strategy • Dragon Buffet • Dynagraphics/Fast Impressions • Fox & Hounds • Fuji • George's Skate Center • Glenda Williamson Realty • Golden Glaze Donuts • Grace's Dancewear • Gyro King • Homeward Bound Pet Shelter • Humane Society of Decatur and Macon Co. • Il Forno • Krekel's North • Land of Lincoln Credit Union-Mound Rd • Macon Resources • McGorray's Golf & Grille • Melanie Schelling-State Farm • Miles Chevrolet • Miles Nissan • Millie & Bo's Barkery • Monical's Pizza • My Shipping Place • Northgate Pet Clinic • Orthopaedic & Rehabilitation Specialists of Central IL • Papa Murphys • Party Warehouse • Pho Golden Noodle Bowl • PlaMor Lanes • Play It Again Sports • Pride Coin Laundry-North Main • Ray Eldridge Jewelry • Regions-Northtown • Sleep Inn • Smith Tire Co. • Soy Capital Bank-Pershing Rd • Spare Time Lanes • Speed Lube-Pershing • Sun & Fun Swim & Golf Club • The Secret Garden • The Teacher's Lounge • The Wagon • Up N' Runnin' • DECATUR, SOUTH • Billingsley BP Service StationSouth Shores • Dale's Southlake Pharmacy • Decatur Athletic Club • Guadalajara • Kroger-South Shores • Mari-Mann Herb Co. • Rock Springs Nature Center • Solar Tan • Speed Lube-South Shores • The Reserve • The Wharf • DECATUR, WEST • Advanced Disposal • Blue Spoon of Oakwood • Bourbon Barrel • Café Brio • Casey's General Store-West Mound • Cherry Berry • Decatur Conference Center & Hotel • Decatur Indoor Sports Center • Decatur Jewelry & Pawn • Decatur Mutual Insurance • DMH Express Care-Fairview • Donnie's Homespun Pizza • Famous Wine & Spirits • First Wok • Garcia's Pizza • It's Just a Little Prick Tattoo Co. • Jeffrey's Market • Kirkland Fine Arts Center • Krekel's-Oakland • Kroger-Fairview • Land of Lincoln Credit UnionOakland • Leo H. Berger Insurance • Lock Stock & Barrel • Lyle Campbell & Sons Realty • Macon County Farm Bureau • Mi Pueblito • Millikin University-Alumni 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 Drive-In Antique Mall • The Glass House • The Rusty Spur • The Winery • University Dogs • Wethington's Fresh Flowers and Gifts, Inc. • Whitestar Home Healthcare Services • ARGENTA • Argenta Village Hall • 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' FitnessNorth • 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. Zion Chamber of Commerce • Mt. Zion District Library • Mt. Zion Village Hall • Neil Tire & Auto Service • Next of Kiln • Pizza Hut • Priceless Smiles/Styles & Smiles • Pride Coin Laundry • Russ Proesel DDS • Temmen Advanced Eyecare • The Fisherman's Quarters • Unique Boutique • OREANA • Gerber State Bank • Nola's Hair Salon • Oreana Public Library • WARRENSBURG • The Perfect Pair Antiques & Salon • Barclay Library • Board Knight • Da Burg

in this ISSUE issue #57 | Februar y 2014 www.thrivedecatur.com ON THE COVER: Illustration by Kat Smalley

BEHIND THE THRIVE

January: Out & About

SPOTLIGHT: Friends of Argenta

Party Crashers' Crash of the Month ART SPEAK: Reclaim. Recycle. Repurpose.

Publisher's Pick of the Month

FOOD DUDE: Crawford's Pizza & Pub Rube Goldberg Competition February Events Calendar Paint Provides New Party Palette Continue the Chain Reaction

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 February 2014 | 03

BEHIND THE

CONGRATS TO OUR JANUARY WINNER:

Seth Stark

January Answers:

1. Black floor tile turns white 2. Second orange container appears 3. Extra grapes appear in red onion bin 4. Door knob disappears 5. Divider is removed 6. Celery appears

Play the February Spot the Difference Challenge on p.35

04 | February 2014

THRIVE

Ch-ch-chain, chain reaction. What?

That’s right—this issue is focused on chain reactions. But we’re going beyond “what-ifs” to “they-ares.” In other words, great things are happening in and around Decatur, and it’s a wave that’s building.

Rube Goldberg is back; in fact, through him Engineering in the Classroom has introduced almost 20,000 Central Illinois kids to engineering. Don’t miss the latest contest at the Children’s Museum this month.

Friends of Argenta are on a roll, from an ice cold start helping local son Aaric Kendall make his cut at the Olympics to today’s iteration hosting dozens of events and giving more than $14,000 back to the community to date. They’re heating things up in February with three big events not to be missed!

Grow Decatur continues its quest as a catalyst for change, and we hear about it firsthand from our ever-eloquent guest columnist.

There’s a heck of a pizza pub in Maroa and some new businesses with creative painting parties to be done at home or afar (with friends and libations no less!), so who says things aren’t growing ‘round here?

Every chain reaction starts somewhere; it’s easy to see the links if you just explore greater Decatur!

Out & About

A look back at last month’s happenings

Barstool Open January 18 marked the 13th Annual UCP Miller Lite Barstool Open to benefit United Cerebral Palsy (UCP).

Golfing participants kicked the morning off at the KC Hall & AIW Hall and were transported throughout Decatur via school bus as they followed one of 8 courses including 58 bars.

February 2014 | 05

Out & About

A look back at last month’s happenings

Get the Skinny The Decatur Athletic Club hosted the Simply Feel Better health fair on January 11. The New Year event offered health screenings, sample classes and membership deals to keep those resolutions in check.

Riding the Pine Boy Scout Pack 35, sponsored by Central United Methodist Church, hosted their annual Pinewood Derby Race at Hickory Point Mall on Saturday, January 18. The derby cars were designed and painted by the Cub Scout boys and their families. Trophies were awarded for the overall fastest car, top car in each den and sportsmanship.

Colee'ing All Friends Forsyth welcomed Colee's Corner Drugs last month. The sister store to Dale's Southlake Pharmacy offers personalized pharmacy service, specialty items and a convenient drive-thru. Don't miss the grand opening February 11!

06 | February 2014

Balloon Art

Magician and balloon artist Rick Eugene Brammer taught a balloon sculpting class for families at the Barclay Public Library in Warrensburg. The evening of balloon twisting and design was made possible thanks to a grant from Target. The children created hats, belts and swords before the onehour class concluded and were sent home with balloon sculpting supplies for future projects.

Congrats! #WeDidIt Our community exceeded the $2 million goal for this year's United Way of Decatur Mid-Illinois campaign. Proceeds will serve our community through successful programs like the Boys & Girls Club. #WeDidIt

February 2014 | 07

08

SPOTLIGHT

Friends of Argenta: The Name Says It All

by Joli Hohenstein

The Fire Department approached them about partnering in their Christmas Auction, where people could donate toys to Friends of Argenta.

The first year saw 35 bidders; last year it jumped to 100. “We took away a pickup truck load and a 16 foot trailerload of hats, gloves, bicycles, and on Santa Day any kid who talks to Santa can pick out a free toy,” says Ron. “Then this year on Christmas Eve we followed Santa around on a fire truck through Argenta and Oreana and gave toys to all the kids who came out.”

What Ron likes to say started as a “little bit of nothing” has blossomed to friends helping friends in the best way.

Santa, Mrs Claus and all the helpers after driving through the town.

Photo: Bill Hoffman, Photohunter Photography

When friends get together, there’s a chain reaction, and nowhere is that result more evident lately than in Argenta. Formed in 2009 under the auspices of sending one of their own to the Olympics for ice carving, Friends of Argenta has fostered a community spirit that’s getting warmer by the year.

“A local guy wanted to go to the Olympics; we did a fundraiser for him and had a great turnout, and people kept saying we needed to do it more often,” co-founder Ron Grider says of the group’s almost-accidental beginnings.

They decided to try a monthly community breakfast and then quickly branched out to spaghetti dinners and safety events for the kids.

They’re now up to 14 events a year and going strong.

All proceeds go back into Argenta to some charitable organization or church. Over the last few years they’ve given back more than $14,000.

“Everything we do is to give money back to the community,” says Ron. “We’re a fully organized and incorporated non-profit charitable organization, so we’re all tax deductible, and we’re always looking for ideas.”

Now up to 16 or 17 volunteer members (depending on who wants to be counted), the group continually makes additions and changes every year. The latest: a clothing store for those in need. “It has really taken off,” says Ron.

Monthly community breakfasts run from January to May and September to October. Summer features a Safety Day for the kids, the second annual golf cart poker run (for those who can keep up!) and this year for the first time, a BBQ Contest.

To heat things up for winter, they’ve added two February events on top of the monthly breakfast February 22. Budding chefs can show off their culinary talents at the Chili Contest February 8 and lovebirds can share the love at the Valentine’s Dinner on February 15.

It’s hard work for the best rewards, and they’re showing no signs of stopping. “I never thought I’d work as hard as I do to make a dollar, just to turn around and give it away,” Ron chuckles. “Once you get started you always have someone with an idea, and since we’re not that smart, we always say yes.”

Get There Friends of Argenta Events Chili Contest February 8 Valentine Dinner February 15 Community Breakfast February 22 Old Grade School, 275 N. Kenwood, Argenta Find them on Facebook!

433-9362, ohwe1165@yahoo.com

Joli Hohenstein is Editor and Senior Writer for THRIVE. She is an award-winning freelance writer, marketer, and editor.

Heart-shaped pizzas from Lou Malnati’s make her smile. Get more Joli at jolihohenstein.com.

08 | February 2014

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D O O R D I R E C T A tradition of printing excellence for nearly 60 years.

DAYTONA 500 POTLUCK & RACE Sunday, Feb. 23, 11-ish Pop's Place [4335 W Main]

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Brochures, Pocket Folders, Publications, Mail Pieces

Total Marketing Solutions Jim Ashby: 217-433-5467 • Wayne Allen: 217-521-3696 Jeff Ashby: 217-520-1793 • Blake Ashby: 217-620-1585 Becky Whitehead, Sue Watts & Amy Brewer: 217-429-2125

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facebook.com/groups/ DecaturPartyCrashers jccaulkins@aol.com

February 2014 | 09

10

ART SPEAK

by Sue Powell

Art Gets New Life - Reclaim. Recycle. Repurpose.

Living in this age of the disposable mentality (use it and pitch it), we assign little value to plastic bags, bottle tops, broken gadgets and such. But gradually a new mindset is creeping in… Reclaim.

Recycle. Repurpose. The Decatur Area Arts Council unveils an exhibit of that title in the Anne Lloyd Gallery and uses the exhibit as a launch pad for lots of creative upcycling activities throughout February.

Don’t miss this quirky, amazing, and surprising display of 10 artists who literally turn trash into treasure. Part of an evergrowing movement in the art world, these artists see a myriad of possibilities when they look into a dumpster or drive by an abandoned item. Gauges become eyeballs; junk mail transforms into colorful wall art; a garden hose reincarnates as an electrical cord for an animated popcorn machine. Why spend a fortune on art supplies when the raw materials are literally at your fingertips, when you can save these throwaways from the landfill? How exciting to breathe new life into otherwise doomed “garbage”!

Join in the fun on Friday evening, February 7, from 5-7:30 pm when the Madden Arts Center turns into three floors of familyfriendly, hands-on activities all centered around the theme of upcycling into art. If you’ve ever made something clever, functional or beautiful by recycling junk materials, bring it to the third floor for the one-night-only Spontaneous Art Gallery!

Whether a novice or an experienced artist, we want to share how inventive folks can be.

Check out displays by The I.D.E.A. Store in Champaign and ReStore in Decatur, showing cost-effective sources for all sorts of materials you can recycle in the classroom, for home improvement and for other projects. Meet some of the artists on display in the gallery, and then harness that inspiration in the studio to create jewelry, weaving and more from a variety of recyclables.

Put your personal touch on the public sculpture, which will take form throughout the evening as each visitor adds another piece.

Everyone, young and old, is encouraged to bring a recyclable item (from CDs to old kitchen utensils). DAAC will have stuff to work with, but the more the merrier.

Can’t get enough of recycling and want to create something unique? Join the workshop at the Madden Arts Center on February 15 using varied “trash” to make baskets, bracelets and sculptures. Or grab a favorite old t-shirt and learn a no-sew technique to transform it into a tote during one of the Upcycled T-Shirt classes. Options are available for kids through adults who get the idea that anything old can be new again.

Double Whammy, Larry Agnello

Bottom line... think twice before you throw away that bottle, that old shutter, that defunct machine.

Recycle by donating to shops that resell, to your school or to someone artistic. Reclaim and repurpose the item yourself. At the very least, toss that item into your recycling bin so it stays out of the landfill and hopefully one day resurfaces as one of the many “made from recyclables.”

Be part of this very creative trend!

Sue Powell is the Gallery Director for the Decatur Area Arts Council. When not hanging at gallery shows, you might catch her on stage!

Chocolate hearts bursting with caramel make Sue’s heart swell.

10 | February 2014

Publisher's

Pick of the Month Just a little something we ran across and wanted to share.

"For the Love of It" Cabaret and Dinner Benefit for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

"For the Love of It" has been on our radar for a couple of years now, but it's well worth another call-out! Over the past three years this event has raised over $10,000 for the two cancer research charities through their ticket sales and donations.

So what's it like? It's a spontaneous, energetic evening of light-hearted competition for the next song.

Even more fun than battling for who gets to sing the next song is the Mad Lib! The song hasn't been revealed yet, but they have given a clue on Facebook: Sun and Moon. With our help from the audience, the vocalists will customize a well-known song for a one-of-a-kind performance.

For the Love of It February 7 & 8 6p (dinner), 7p (Show) The Decatur Club Call 429.4200 for reservations ($35/pp) February 2014 | 11

12

THE FOOD DUDE

by T. F. DUDE

Crawford's Pizza & Pub As a dude of food, I’m ashamed to admit the fact that I’ve not been to all of the existing food establishments in Macon County and surrounding areas (yet). So when I tell you about my recent experience at Crawford’s Pizza & Pub in Maroa, I must confess that the visit was my first time! I don't know how this slipup occurred, but I’m glad all things have been rectified.

I was delightfully surprised as we entered. It’s a large, open space with booths, high-top and low-top tables and a bar in the corner. The red brick walls make it a bit homey, and if you’re an avid sports watcher, you will (like I did) think you’ve died and gone to Heaven as there are 13 (we counted – twice) large, flatscreen TVs. But enough about the décor; we’re here to talk food.

Being as excited as I was to try a new pizza place, I couldn’t go it alone, so as a food entourage, I brought Ma and Pa Dude along for the ride. I can’t go anywhere without getting a starter, as I’m an avid fan of all fried foods, so we went with cheese balls (the size of tater tots, they’re filled with a gooey, spicy cheese), fried pickles and, on our super-friendly server's recommendation, the breadsticks (sadly, not fried but AMAZING).

They’re incredibly soft. They come coated in garlic butter, are sprinkled with parmesan and, of course, you have the option of several dipping sauces. You thought we stopped there? Did I mention we also got an order of hot wings? They were great as well, spicy enough, but if you like ’em real spicy, you can step it up another level with the extra hot.

Now let’s talk pizza. We each ordered an individual 10". Pa ordered anchovies (no comment) and regular crust. The “regular” crust is your fairly standard thin crust. Ma ordered sausage, mushroom and green pepper, while I ordered the “Special Delight,” which comes with sausage, pepperoni, onion, mushroom, green pepper, and cheese. Having been burned before, Ma and I share a paranoid fondness for always ordering extra cheese, but I think you’d be satisfied without it.

photo: T. F. Dude

She and I asked for thick crust, which was as thick as a deep dish crust. There’s also an option of double crust, which we learned is a combination of crust-sauce-crust-sauce and then your toppings. The crust was golden brown (thankfully unscathed on the bottom) and tasted like an awesome brick-oven baked pizza. The sauce was mild, not too sweet – just a good pizza sauce.

My vegetables were crisp (especially the green peppers), and the sausage packed a lot of flavor. I could’ve only asked for larger chunks of it!

Now let me tell you why I think you could really like this place if you haven’t already been. It has a great family atmosphere; the staff is friendly; the portions are generous; you have three crust options, and THERE ARE 13 FLATSCREEN TELEVISIONS. Beyond pizza and starters, they have sandwiches, soups, salads, a couple of pastas and calzones. There are also several beer options, bottle or draft. You have enough room that you don’t feel cramped, and though there were lots of people, the acoustics never made it difficult to hold a conversation. They deliver to Maroa as well as Forsyth and Clinton. Apparently, they even have live music some nights, too. Awesome for singles, couples, families and anyone!

Get There 105 W. Main St., Maroa 794-2700 www.crawfordspizzapub.com Sunday-Thursday 10:30 am - 10:30 pm Friday & Saturday 10:30 am - 1:00 am

The Food Dude is not a professional critic. He just really, really likes food. And chocolate covered marshmallows.

12 | February 2014

February 2014 | 13

Engineering the Mundane: Rube Goldberg Competition Written by Joli A. Hohenstein | Illustrated by Kat Smalley

Want to watch hilarity, excess and complication come not so seamlessly together? Get thee to the Children’s Museum of Illinois on Saturday, February 22, for the annual Rube Goldberg Competition.

There you’ll see fifth graders’ best efforts at building a hilariously complex, overengineered, under-simplified machine that accomplishes a menial task—this year, draw a line 3 inches long. Through the Engineer in the Classroom (EITC) program, classrooms are partnered with local engineers for project development, which starts shortly before the December holiday break.

“It turns a fifth grade class into an engineering team,” says Monte Cherry, an EITC founding board member and civil engineer by trade who now runs 14 | February 2014

Decatur’s Sanitary District. “The engineering community wholly supports the program, and engineers of all kinds run the program in the classrooms.”

The competition, always the last Saturday of February to coincide with Engineers Week, gives a unique opportunity for engineers of all walks to show kids firsthand the possibilities of a career in the field. “The kids do everything a regular engineer has to do,” says Monte, “keep a journal, come up with design ideas, detail problems and how they’re solved, and make a presentation.”

Seventeen classrooms from around Macon County will vie for the crown, named after the Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist, sculptor and author who started his career as an engineer and made his name as a

Past EITC competitors. Submitted by: Monte Cherry.

nationally syndicated cartoonist. His art often detailed “inventions” depicting the most ridiculous and elaborate devices to accomplish mundane tasks. The contests have become so popular that TIME Magazine named Rube Goldberg Machine Contests one of its Top 10 Nerdy Competitions.

Like Rube, EITC founders saw the unique combination of humor and value that engineering brings to everyday life, so they set out to teach kids about it early on.

The challenge was “how to plant the seed of engineering as a career in the minds of children,” says Monte.

“This program was born out of a love for engineering that the EITC engineering board had for its career,” says Rex Nicole,

EITC national coordinator and the visionary behind the program.“The framing engineers worked hard on developing a curriculum that would relate to students and teachers alike.” In its 15 years, the program has reached 15000-18000 students and over 15 school districts in central Illinois.

As the years progress, perhaps the greatest reward is confirmation the program is working, whether from a Caterpillar scholarship award winner who lists the Rube Goldberg competition as the point she knew what she wanted to do with her life or the return of a competitor years later as a trained engineer himself to lead a classroom in the competition.

“The mentor engineers devote their time, some by using vacation time, to February 2014 | 15

the classrooms and students, forging a kinship with the teachers and students on showcasing what an engineer is and does and how that work ties to what the students are learning in school,” says Rex. “The kids take ownership of their classroom’s engineer and learn how to work as a team to achieve a common goal, as well as applying what they have learned in a way that is fun to them.”

At the end of this month, students will try to do their engineer mentors and Rube proud, using anything brought from home, whether twist ties or nails, cups or thumbtacks. “Those kids really own the program and their devices,” says Monte.

In a 10-minute presentation, they sell their machine to a judging panel of local

engineers, running the device twice. Judges rank the entries on factors like complexity, aesthetics and the kids’ level of involvement in the design. The top three move on to state competition at the University of Illinois’ Engineering Open House March 14.

“The need for more engineers in America is profound; the need for more students to choose engineering is equally profound,” says Rex. “Teaching students about engineering at a much earlier age than high school is the kindling needed for them to have a desire to go into engineering studies in high school and even junior high classes where offered.”

Interested in your classroom participating in the Rube Goldberg Competition

Looking for a fun & unique gift for Valentine’s Day? Available now through Valentine's Day!

$

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255 W. Mound Road Target Center * Decatur 217-875-1700

16 | February 2014

INK

next year? Are you an engineer who wants to be a mentor? Contact Monte Cherry at 422-6931, ext. 233, or Monte@sddcleanwater.org

Get There: Engineer in the Classroom Rube Goldberg Competition Saturday, February 22 at 9 am Children’s Museum of Illinois 55 S. Country Club Rd., Decatur 422-6931- ext. 233, Monte@sddcleanwater.org

2014 Registration Dates Dates Feb. 7 Feb. 8 Feb. 15 Feb. 21 Feb. 28 March 8 March 9

Location

Times

South Shores Miles Chevrolet DISC Harris School Baum School DISC DISC

5 - 6:30 p.m.

9 a.m. - noon 10 a.m. - noon 5 - 6:30 p.m.

5 - 6:30 p.m.

10 a.m. - noon 3 - 5 p.m.

Call 429-3472 for more information!

February 2014 | 17

February 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 [Exhibit Hall, 3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708] 8a-5p (Mo-Fr), 8:30a-4:30p (Sa), 1-4p (Su)

EVERY MONDAY Preschool Activity - Young Artist (thru 2.24) Your child’s imagination and selfexpression will be inspired through painting, sculpting, drawing and more! For 18 months to 4-year-olds.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. $30-35, DISC [1295 W Wood, decatur-parks.org] 10-10:40a

Virginia Kickle Enjoy beautiful nature photography featuring wildflowers, birds and landscapes. Rock Springs Nature Center [South Gallery, 3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708] 8a-5p (Mo-Fr), 8:30a-4:30p (Sa), 1-4p (Su)

Toddler Tumbling (thru 3.3) Beginners focus on flexibility and coordination. Youth aged 3-5. $3036, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472, decatur-parks.org] 4:30-5p

Art Exhibit Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe [256 W Main, www. wildflourartisanbakery.com] Art Exhibit Gallery 510 [160 E Main, Suite 100, 422.1509, gallery510.org] Art Exhibit Decatur Airport [910 Airport Rd] Art Exhibit Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, www.decaturlibrary.org, 424.2900] Karaoke Josh n Crown (Mo), A Bottle of CT (Tu), Karaoke/Dancing with Jacob (We), Karaoke-rita with CT (Th), Karaoke/Dancing with Jacob (Fr), Danrel & Funk DJ/Karaoke (Sa), Josh in a Bucket (Su). Cafe Brio [2880 N Oakland, 875.2746] 9p-2a

Intermediate Junior Golf (thru 2.17) Juniors aged 10-13 can take their swing to the next level with assistance from the Park District golf pros! $48-57, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472, decatur-parks.org] 5:30-6:30p Mid State Youth Indoor Soccer (thru 2.17) Mid State’s indoor soccer programs are designed to teach fundamentals and techniques to players aged 5-12. Participants learn passing, dribbling, and team play during 30-minute training sessions, followed by 20-minute games. $51-60, DISC [1295 W Wood, decatur-parks.org] 5-5:30 (ages 5-6), 6:30-7:30P (ages 7-9), 7:30-8:30p (ages 10-12) Monday Night Draft Come out and draft Magic the Gathering every Monday! $12, Board Knight [266 N Rt 121, Warrensburg, boardknight.com] 6p

Lady Planeswalker Society (LPS) LPS is an unofficial play group seeking to successfully create a welcoming, friendly environment for women to learn how to play Magic the Gathering. This does not mean the group is exclusively women, either. The primary goal is to teach people who are not comfortable enough with the tournament scene how to play.

Free, Board Knight [266 N Rt 121, Warrensburg, boardknight.com] 6p Country Line Dance Come join a fun-filled evening, meet new people and learn to country line dance. No signup.

Great exercise! $6, Knights of Columbus Hall [520 E North St, 764.3070] 7-8p (Class), 8-9p (Dance)

Adult Indoor Soccer Open Play (thru 2.24) Adult soccer players can enjoy casual matches during this friendly open play session. Must be 18 years or older. No pre-registration is required. $6, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 9-10p EVERY MONDAY or TUESDAY Beginning Tumbling (thru 3.4) Beginners focus on flexibility and coordination. Youth in grades K-6. $30-36, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472, decatur-parks.org] 5-5:45p (Mo), 4:30-5:15p (Tu) EVERY MONDAY-FRIDAY Art Exhibit Jeff Robinson-Painting Exhibition.

Free & open to the public. Millikin University [Perkinson Gallery] 12-5p EVERY TUESDAY Preschool Activity Sports Sampler Try T-ball, basketball, soccer, tumbling and more! Each week will feature a new sport taught by Park District specialists in the field. For children aged 2-5 Children must be

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

accompanied by an adult. $30-35, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 10-10:40a Intermediate Tumbling (thru 3.4) Youth in grades 2-6. $30-36, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472, decaturparks.org] 5:15-6p Youth Wrestling (thru 2.18) 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) Adult Basketball Leagues (thru 3.25) Intense, fast-paced basketball leagues! Teams play 10 games and an end-of-the-season tournament.

Must be aged 16 or older. DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472, www. decatur-parks.org] 6-10p Annual Beginning Beekeeping Workshop (begins 2.6) Starting a colony, hive construction and installing honeybees, harvesting honey, summer and fall management, diseases, pests, maladies, swarming, overwintering colonies, honeybee pollination, and more. $75, Fire Dept. Training Center [2707 E Williams, 429.5198] 6-8p Decatur Chess Club Players of all levels are welcome.

Doherty's Pub & Pins [242 E William St] 6:30p

Magic Draft Night The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 6:30p

Toddler Time Children aged 18 months-3 years old are welcome to joins us as we sing, dance, read a story, and more.

Stevie Ray Kelton Parent or caregiver is asked to stay Lincoln Square Lounge [121 N Main, in the room. Please preregister at 423.2180] 9p-1a the front desk or call to reserve your spot. Mt Zion District Library [115 EVERY TUESDAY or W Main, 864.3622, www.mtzion.lib.

WEDNESDAY il.us] 9:30-10a Junior Golf (thru 2.19) Park District pros offer an Stained Glass Class (thru 2.19) introduction to golf for youth The Glass House [2895 N Oakland, aged 5 - 12, teaching hitting and 875.7077] 6:30-9p putting fundamentals, golf rules and etiquette. Clubs are provided for Wednesday Night Board those who need them. $48-57, DISC Gaming with the Decatur [1295 W Wood, 429.3472, decaturGamers parks.org, 429.3472] 5-5:45p (ages Play your favorite tabletop game or 5-7), 6-6:45p (ages 8-12) try a new one! Free, Board Knight [266 N State Rt 121, Warrensburg, EVERY TUESDAY-THURSDAY boardknight.com] 6p Staley Striders Indoor Track & Field Club (thru 2.20) Casual Commander Youth aged 7-14 may focus on at Board Knight skills mastery within a positive Join us for a very casual night of atmosphere. $46-55, DISC [1295 Commander! Free, Board Knight W Wood, 429.3472, decatur-parks.

[266 N State Rt 121, Warrensburg, org] 4-5p boardknight.com] 6p EVERY WEDNESDAY Early Table Tennis Leagues (2.12-4.9) Love table tennis? Register for this fun, leisure-based league which includes nine 1-hour self-officiated games. For ages 45 and older. $70 (team), DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 9a-12p

HeroClix Sanctioned Tournament Collectible miniatures game that uses the Clix system that centers around the world of superhero comic books, especially the Marvel and DC Comics universes. $15-20, The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 6:30p

Continuing Education for Adults If you are interested in becoming a Scovill Zoo volunteer or if you would like to learn more about our world’s majestic creatures, join us for continuing education classes at Scovill Zoo. No registration or previous experience required! Free, Scovill Zoo [71 S Country Club Rd, 421.7435] 9a-12p

Mobile Soundz Karaoke Featuring Troy Hayes. Woody's Bar [1190 W South Side Dr] 9p-1a

Sleepy Time Tales 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!

Coffee Club Mt Zion District Library [115 W Main, Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, 864.3622, www.mtzion.lib.il.us] Warrensburg, 672.3621] 9:30a 6:30-7:30p

Open Mic Night Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland St] 9:30p Karaoke & Water Pong Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 10p-2a

February 2014 | 19

February Events EVERY WEDNESDAY, FRIDAYSUNDAY Club Ice (thru 3.9) Ice Skating is going to be more fun than ever! $6, Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza] 4-6p (We), 4-6p & 7:30-9:30p (Fr), 3:30-5:30p & 7:30-9:30p (Sa), 1-3p (Su) EVERY WEDNESDAYSATURDAY Docta LD DJ/Karaoke Curly’s Bar & Pizza [2683 N Water, 875.9800] 9p-2a EVERY THURSDAY Early Bird Bags League (2.13-4.9) 2-on-2 Bags (Corn Hole) League!

This league will consist of 9 selfofficiated games, each one-hour long. For ages 45 or older. $70, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 9a-12p Story Time Children aged 3-5 years old are welcome to join us for an engaging story and activities. Parent/s or caregiver/s are not required to stay in the room for this event, but must stay in the building. 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] 10:30-11:30a Write Stuff Writers' Group Support, encouragement, and critiques for writers in all stages of development. Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe [256 W Main] 3:30p

Family Fun Night Our demo section is full of tons of fun games free for use. The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 3-10p D&D Dungeons & Dragons table game.

The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 5p Adult Coed Volleyball Leagues (thru 3.20) These active, fast-paced 6-on-6 volleyball leagues include Coed Competitive and Recreational teams. $175 (team), DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472, www.decaturparks.org] 6-10p Warmachine & Hordes Miniatures Night Learn how to build, paint, and play with your Warmachine & Hordes minis! Free, Board Knight [266 N Rt 121, Warrensburg, boardknight. com] 6p Open Board Gaming Play your favorite tabletop game, or try a new one! Free, Board Knight [266 N Rt 121, Warrensburg, boardknight.com] 6p Adult Golf (2.13-2.20) Must be aged 18 or older. Players of all skill levels will learn how to increase distance and improve their stance and swing. $28-33, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 6:30-7:30p Stevie Ray Kelton Sliderz [5995 US 36] 9p-1:30a Karaoke With Troy Hayes. Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 9p-1a

DJ David Lee Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 10p-2a EVERY FRIDAY Friday Night Magic Weekly tournament consisting of both Standard & Modern formats. $5, Board Knight [266 N State Rt 121, Warrensburg, boardknight. com] 6:30p Friday Night Magic Standard and constructed formats available. Prize payout up to 3 packs of boosters per participant, $12 value. $5, The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 6:30p EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY Wine Tastings The Decanter Fine Wines [215 N Main, 422.9463] 4-7p (Fr), 1-6p (Sa) DJ Philbilly (except 2.15, 3.15) No cover. Feeling Lucky Lounge & Package [3775 N Woodford, 875.3067] 9p-2a EVERY SATURDAY Golf Demo Days Don’t miss the opportunity to try out the latest golf equipment from Mizuno, Cleveland, PING and Titleist.

Free, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 9a-3p Winter Football Camp (2.8- 2.22) Increase your speed and improve your agility and technique with the Millikin University football team! Athletes of all positions are encouraged to participate. For youth aged 7-17. $52-61, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 12p-1:30p Kaijudo Tournament Card game based on the famous cartoon. Plays similar to Magic the Gathering but great for kids 8+. $10 (includes lunch), The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 11a

NOW OPEN IN FORSYTH

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

Golf Demo Days Callaway & Cobra (2.1), Open (2.8), Titleist & Taylor (2.15), Ping (2.22).

McGorray's Golf & Grille [2927 N Water, 454.5797] 1:30-4p Pathfinders Society (begins 2.15) The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 2p Saturday Night EDH! The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 6p Family Game Day Stop in and learn how to play games perfect for the family, like Rampage, Trains, Spot it, & Hive!

Free, Board Knight [266 N Rt 121, Warrensburg, boardknight.com] 12-6p EVERY SUNDAY Open Board Gaming Play your favorite tabletop game, or try a new one! Free, Board Knight [266 N Rt 121, Warrensburg, boardknight.com] 12-8p

Sunday), $150 (patron package), Decatur Conference Center & Hotel [4191 US 36 W, www.juvaejazz.com, 454.2709] 5p-12a (Fr), 10a-2a (Sa), Jazz Gospel Service; 11a-1p (Su) Jazz Brunch; Sessions 11a-5p (Su) Saturday, 1 Book Signing & Discussion Decatur resident French MacLean, author of The Fifth Field - the true stories behind 96 American soldiers who were court-martialed and executed during WWII - will conduct a book signing and discussion. Call to reserve a seat. Free, Wildflour Artisan Bakery [256 W Main, www. wildflourartisanbakery.com, 422.3300] 10a Dulcimer Club Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 10a-12p

Super Saturday Recess Youth aged 4-11 will enjoy an active morning at the DISC with inflatables, scooters, basketball, tumbling, and more! No registration necessary.

Yu-Gi-Oh Need not be a member of the DISC Sanctioned tournament. First place to attend. Parents must be present. gets a full box of the current booster No registration necessary. $3.50 (per set. $10, The Hidden Lair [320 N St child), DISC [1295 W Wood, decaturHwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 1p parks.org, 429.3472] 10a-12p Yu-Gi-Oh Advanced format with prizes to the top players. $5, Board Knight [266 N Rt 121, Warrensburg, boardknight. com] 1p Sunday Funday Draft Come out and draft the current Magic The Gathering set! $12, Board Knight [266 N Rt 121, Warrensburg, boardknight.com] 4p 1.31-2.2 39th Central Illinois Jazz Festival A fun, music filled weekend featuring Dixieland Jazz, Chicago and New Orleans styles, Swing, Ragtime, Zydeco and Gypsy Jazz.

Multiple venues all under one roof. $30 (per session), $25 (per session

FIRST Tech Challenge High School Robotics Competition Come watch high school robotics teams from around the state as they compete to score as many points as possible in 2.5-minute matches.

Teams build and program their own robots to run races for points and position. Open to the public. Free, Argenta-Oreana High School [500 N Main, Argenta, 877.6042] 11a-4p

Into the Wild: Old Time Sweethearts Create a gift as early people did in the 1800s. Valentine's Day creates loving memories for people of all ages! Visitors will create a gift for someone special to take home. Your gift will make a lasting memory for someone you love. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www.maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 2p Craig Russo Latin Jazz Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 3:30-5:30p Kidd Kaddilac Sliderz Bar [5995 US 36] 4p Benefit for Mike "Cowboy" Richardson Prairieland Rebels (6p). Prairieland ABATE [1901 N Railroad Ave] 5p-1a Pheasants Forever Annual Banquet Raffles, silent auction, and live auction of guns, wildlife prints, hunting trips, outdoor gear, hunting accessories, and more.

Must purchase ticket prior to event. $70 (includes dinner and 1-yr membership), Knights of Columbus Hall [520 E North St, 433.2417] 5-10p Hearts Around the World Buffet culinary creations prepared

by Bayern Stube, Bizou, Cafe DMH, Coffee Connection, DMH Coffee Shop and The Culinary Arts Institute of Richland Community College will give attendees a taste of European culture right here at home. $75, DMH Café [2300 N Edward St, www. dmhcares.com/haw, 876.2105] 6-9p

Young Artists Concert Our annual midwinter celebration Community Game Day of young talent, this year featuring Family-friendly group playing board, the winners of Millikin's Concerto/ card, and role-playing games.

Aria Competition plus a side-byGames available or bring your own. side performance of the Decatur This event is open to everyone in Youth Symphony Orchestra with the Decatur area who is looking the Millikin String Arts Ensemble. for a fun time. Salvation Army Kirkland Fine Arts Center [Millikin Community Center [229 W Main, University, 424.6318] 7:30p www.decaturgamers.com] 1p

Find us on the corner of Rt. 51 and Weaver Rd!

Mon - Fri: 8:30 am - 6:00 pm, Sat: 8:30 am - 1:00 pm

(217) 330-9552

www.dalesrx.com February 2014 | 21

February Events

2.1-2.26 Reclaim.Recycle.Repurpose Ten artists transform “junk” and “trash” into quirky, amazing, and Jenny Campbell aesthetic fine art. Shutters, gears, Oakhill Records Recording Artist. plastics, kitchen gadgets and Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] more turn into masks, figures, 9p-1a furniture, wall hangings and even a re-imagined popcorn machine!

Jonny Vodka, C4, Escaping Madden Arts Center [125 N Water, Neverland, Point 08 423.3189] 8:30a-4:30p (Mo-Fr) 10aNo cover. AIW Hall [2882 Dineen] 9p 2p (Sa) Jesse Hite Crawford's Pizza and Pub [105 W Main, Maroa] 8p

Night at the Lincoln Theatre Haunted overnight investigation. $50, Lincoln Theatre [141 N Main, www.bumpinthenight.net] 9p Riverbottom Nightmare Band Sliderz Bar [5995 US 36] 9p 2.1-2.2 Born of the Gods Pre-release Weekend Celebrate the upcoming Magic the Gathering expansion and play in any or all of our six sealed tournaments. Ask store for details! $25 (pre-pay), $30 (door), Board Knight [266 N Rt 121, Warrensburg, boardknight.com] Magic The Gathering Born of the Gods Pre-release Weekend Prizes are given out to the winners, and door prizes are also provided.

Start times vary; see webpage for details. $25, The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, www. hiddenlair.com] 2.1-2.7 Danell Dvorak Art Exhibit David Erlanson Gallery [Richland Community College]

sweats and chocolate binges. $38-45, Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, www. decaturciviccenter.org, 422.7300] 8p (Tu-Sa), 2p (Su) Wednesday, 5 Business Breakfast Speaker: Brian McLemore, CQI Associates. Topic: Energy Co-op. $10 (member), $15 (non-member), The Decatur Club [158 W Prairie Ave] 7-8a

Family Book Bash Perfect for families with children aged 0-7! We will read How Do Dinosaurs Say I Love You? It shows children that they are loved, even Meeting Punxsutawney Phil when they are ornery. We will have Learn facts about our native a Valentine snack and craft, too! groundhogs as we reveal the myths $1 (member) $6 (non-member), and legends behind Groundhog Children's Museum of Illinois [55 Day. Free, Rock Springs Nature S Country Club Rd, cmofil.org, Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www.

423.5437] 9-9:45a & 10-10:45a maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 2p Wednesday Book Club We get the books and you read Valentine Notes Concert them! To register, contact the Valentine-themed song and dance library. Barclay Public Library [220 S variety show featuring the vocal Main, Warrensburg, barclay.lib.il.us, barbershop harmonies of the 672.3621] 10:30a Decatur Chordsmen and exciting and unique dance performances Book Between Bites by the Richland Dance Company of Book reviews and book talk Richland Community College. $5, presented by various members Decatur Civic Center [Theatre, www. of the community. Feel free to decaturciviccenter.org, 422.7300] 2p bring a lunch. Coffee provided.

Registration not necessary. Decatur Super Bowl Party Public Library [130 N Franklin, www.

Prairieland ABATE decaturlibrary.org] 12:15p [1901 N Railroad Ave] 5p Wednesday Women 2.4-2.9 Tap into old friendships or make Menopause The Musical some new ones! Join us for a Set in a department store, where beverage or stay for dinner. Taproot four women with seemingly [170 N Merchant St] 5-9p nothing in common meet by chance at a lingerie sale. The Greg Bickers all-female cast makes fun of their Sliderz Bar [5995 US 36] 6:30p woeful hot flashes, forgetfulness, mood swings, wrinkles, night Sunday, 2 Super Bowl Potluck Pop's Place [4335 W Main] Noon-ish

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

Thursday, 6 4-H Federation Party Join Macon County 4-H members in grades 8-12 for a night of fun! You can even bring a non 4-H friend!

U of I Extension Macon County [3351 N President Howard Brown Blvd, web.extension.illinois.edu/ dmp] 5:30p The Fabulous Hoedads Decatur Moose Lodge 684 [3190 N Woodford St] 7-10p

The Fabulous Hoedads The Winery [1093 W Main] 8-11p Bro Fist Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 9p-1a 2.7-2.8 "For the Love of It" Dinner & Cabaret All proceeds benefit two cancer research charities - the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Cash bar available. $35, The Decatur Club [158 W Prairie Ave] 6p (Dinner), 7p (Show)

Friday, 7 First Friday Gallery Walk Join us for hands-on art making for all ages, artists' talks, tasty hors d'oeuvres, beverages, live music and Comedy Hour displays. Madden Arts Center [125 N Brian Morris and Charlie Wiener. $10-12, Main Hangar [910 S Airport Water, 423.3189] 5p Rd, mainhangarrestaurant.net, 421.7452] 8:30p Gallery 510 First Friday Larry Steinbauer, Mixed Media Art. Saturday, 8 Gallery 510 [160 E Main] 5p Cub Scout Igloo Build Old Grade School [275 N Kenwood, Reclaim.Recycle.Repurpose.

Argenta] All Day Arts Event Ray's Chilli Chilly Run Free family fun! Bring your Join the Decatur Running Club for own upcycled creations for the the second annual Ray’s Chilli Chilly Spontaneous Gallery. Meet artists.

Run, a 3-mile, 5-mile and 10-mile Make jewelry and weaving from ‘fun run’ course. South Side Country recyclables. Add your touch to a public sculpture. Enjoy displays from Club [1650 Cottage Dr, 422.6153] 7a The I.D.E.A. Store and ReStore. Free, UMC Pancake Breakfast Madden Arts Center [125 N Water, All you can eat pancake and 423.3189] 5-7:30p sausage and biscuit and gravy breakfast. $6 (adult), $3 (ages 3-10), Sweet heARTS Free (under 3), United Methodist Celebrate Valentine's Day by Church [200 N Water, Dalton City] 7a purchasing handmade pottery and 17th Annual vases that can be filled with fresh floral designs! Rather than a simple Gardening Insights Choose from 13 different seminars vase that fills cabinet space, these and listen to keynote speaker unique containers can be a visual Melinda Myers, a gardening reminder of love for generations expert with more than 30 years of to come. Blue Connection [117 N horticulture experience. Richland Water] 5-8p Community College [Shilling Center, web.extension.illinois.edu/dr, Sweetheart Birches 877.6042] 8a-4p Couples work together to create 2 canvases that can be hung together.

Women's Choir Festival A perfect date night! $50 (person), Central Christian Church $80 (couple), The Perfect Pair [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] [650 W William] 8a 6:30-8:30p

Animal Crackers: Beautiful & Handsome Children aged 3-5 listen to a story, meet an animal, create a craft with their adult guests and snack on animal crackers! Pre-registration is required. $9-10, Scovill Zoo [71 S Country Club Rd, decatur-parks.org, 421.7435] 9:30-10:15a & 11-11:45a Preschool Peepers: Safe & Warm Ever wonder how animals stay warm in the winter? Join us to discover the wonderful world of fur and feathers. Don't forget to bring your favorite blanket or stuffed furry friend as we also listen to fun wintertime stories! Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www.maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 10a Saturday Book Club Barclay Public Library District [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, barclay.lib. il.us, 672.3621] 11a Van Gogh Paint 102 Learn airbrush stenciling, furniture frosting, & embossing stenciling.

Must have already taken Van Gogh 101 or have previous painting experience. $125, The Perfect Pair [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] 12-4:30p Zumba Master Class Open to the public. Spread the word; invite your friends. $10 (advance), $15 (door), Grace United Methodist Church [901 N Main, 428.2782] 2-4p MU Jazz I Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 3:30p 360 Band Sliderz Bar [5995 US 36] 4p Chili Contest Old Grade School [275 N Kenwood, Argenta] 5-7p

February 2014 | 23

February Events Dueling Pianos Dinner/Dance This evening will be filled with music by dueling pianos, a wonderful dinner provided by Beach House, & a silent auction. $40 (single), $75 (couple), Mt Zion Convention Center [1400 Mt Zion Parkway, Mt Zion, www.mtzion. com] 7p Rock of Ages Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 8-11p Matt Carter Band Paco's Sol Bistro [237 N Main, 330.6483] 8-11p Feuding Hillbillies Sliderz Bar [5995 US 36] 9p Josh Catalano & The Dirty Thoughts, Good Safari Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland, www.donnieshomespun. com] 10p Sunday, 9 Penguin Polar Bowl 27th annual bowl-a-thon. Silent auction, door prizes, raffle. $60 (team), $15 (single), Spare Time Lanes [2870 N Jasper, ci.easterseals. com, 429.1052] 11a & 1:30p Blue Grass Music Jams Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 1-4p

2.11-2.12 M Is for Moon Family Science Sunday What is the moon made of? Where Science workshop led by Richland does it go during the daytime? Turn Community College professors. Free your little one on to the secrets of with admission, Children's Museum the night and nighttime animals. of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, $10 with reservation, Rock Springs cmofil.org, 423.5437] 2-4p Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www.maconcountyconservation.

Woodwind Quintet org, 423.7708] 02/11 9:30-10:30 Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N (Tu, Ages 1-5), 1-2p (We, Ages 3-5) Franklin] 2p Wednesday, 12 Noah's Back Alley Blues Culinary Arts Luncheon Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 3-6p Reservations required. $10, Richland Community College [Shilling Monday, 10 Center, 875.7200 x740] Seating from Valentines Dinner 11:30a-12:30p Cooking School Reservations and payment must be Live Karaoke Band in advance. Call for details. Generous Sliderz Bar [5995 US 36] 8p portions constructed right in front of you, includes recipes. Come enjoy Thursday, 13 this evening with us. $20-25, MariCommunity Prayer Breakfast Mann Herb Co [1405 Mari-Mann Ln, Featured speaker is George E. Roller, 429.1555] 6-8p Executive Director of the James D. Kennedy Center for Christian Tuesday, 11 Statesmanship in Washington D.C. American Girl Club and missionary to the members Join us for our American Girl Club of the United States Congress. where we introduce the history Mr. Roller will be talking on "The and culture of America during the Spiritual State of the U. $10, Decatur different settings of the "American Conference Center & Hotel [4191 US Girl" stories and enjoy fun activities 36W] 7-8:15a and crafts. No doll required! Ages 7+, please register. Mt Zion District Book Discussion Library [115 W Main, Mt Zion, www. The book to be discussed is mtzion.lib.il.us, 864.3622] 4:30-5:30p Widow of the South by Robert Hicks. Argenta Library [100 E Tequila Tasting Water, Argenta, www.aopld.lib.il.us, Lock Stock & Barrel 795.2144] 1:30p [129 S Oakland] 6:30-8p Fish & Wildlife ManagementBoy Scout Badge We'll create habitat, learn how to identify animal's signs and see the insides of a fish. Bring your blue card. Registration required. $12, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 5-8p

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

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

LHP Make your Valentine's Day happy.

Hang out with us! Call for your reservations! Paco's Sol Bistro [237 N Main, 330.6483] 8-11p Matt Carter Band Sliderz Bar [5995 US 36] 9p

Soul Purpose Sliderz Bar [5995 US 36] 4p Valentine Dinner Old Grade School [275 N Kenwood, Argenta] 5:30-7p

Band Slam The Third Wheels, Point 08, The 2.14-2.16 Fabulous Hoedads, and Kidd 24th Annual Kaddilac and the Continentals.

Tournament of Friends Food, beer, wine and soda provided.

Decatur Flames hockey tournament 50/50 drawing, silent auction. $50 honoring the memory of Geoffrey (person), $80 (couple), Knights of Geoghegan. Squirt level teams (9-10 Columbus Hall [520 E North St, 2.13-2.16 years old). Teams from Chicago, 875.7950] 6p Puccini One Act Operas Quad Cities, and St Louis will be $10-12, Albert Taylor Theatre present to compete. Decatur Civic 1988-89 Men's Basketball [Millikin University, 424.6318] 7:30p Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, Anniversary Celebration (Th-Sa), 2p (Su) decaturhockey.com] Plan now to join the celebration for members of the 1988-89 CCIW Friday, 14 Saturday, 15 championship men’s basketball Valentine's Day Program Hold 'em Tournament team. Team members will be School aged children 4 years and Prairieland ABATE honored at half-time. Griswold up are invited to attend as we share [1901 N Railroad Ave] 6p sign up Physical Education Center [Millikin stories, crafts, and snacks. Mt Zion University] 7p District Library [115 W Main, Mt Macho Nacho Social Run Zion, www.mtzion.lib.il.us, 864.3622] The Macho Nacho Run is a social West End Boogie Project 1-2p gathering for new & old members Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] of the Decatur Running Club. After 8-11p Love & Laughs a run with friends, we will gather for Childcare provided with RSVP. some socializing at LSB for nachos! Escaping Neverland Dinner and comedy. Jeremy Nunes Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] Feeling Lucky Lounge & Package - comedian. Audiences are treated 9a [3775 N Woodford St, 875.3067] to observations of rural life, tales of 9p-2a finding trouble with his friend “Toes,” Dulcimer Club impressions, songs on guitar, and Rock Springs Nature Center Noah's Back Alley Blues stories about his wisecracking dad. [3939 Nearing Ln, www.

Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S $25, The Decatur Club [158 W Prairie maconcountyconservation.org, Oakland, www.donnieshomespun.

Ave, 638.5545] 6-9p 423.7708] 10a-12p com] 10p Book Club We will discuss The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara. Book available at desk. Mt Zion District Library [115 W Main, Mt Zion, www.mtzion.lib.il.us, 864.3622] 6:30p

Valentine Dinner Live music. Prairieland ABATE [1901 N Railroad Ave] 7p KirkOut: Latin Jazz Project Katz [424.6318] 7:30p Masters of Motown $7.50-30, Kirkland Fine Arts Center [Millikin University, www.millikin. edu, 424.6318] 7:30p

Sweet as Sugar Valentine's Day has ended but we are still ready for some sugar!

Learn why sugar is so important to animals and how they obtain it!

We will also be learning how much sugar is in tree sap! Reservations required. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 1:30p Decatur Big Band Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 3:30-5:30p

2.15-2.16 Winter Softball Camp Learn the fundamentals of throwing, catching & fielding, defensive positional work for infield and outfield. Base running, hitting, & bunting techniques will be covered, & pitchers will enjoy an opportunity to work on fundamentals. $50-59, DISC [1295 W Wood, decatur-parks. org, 429.3472] 2-6p (Sa, Ages 8-13; Su, Ages 14-18)

February 2014 | 25

February Events Sunday, 16 Rock the Woof Benefit for Homeward Bound Pet Shelter. Jonny Vodka, Point 08, Slant 6, RetroSpect, Escaping Neverland, White Whiskey Coalition, Riverbottom Nightmare Band and Gutterbound. Food, raffle, 50/50, live auction, win a car, pet adoption.

AIW Hall [2882 Dineen St] 10a-10p Feed the Animals It's lunch time! Join one of our naturalists as we show you how the ins and outs of feeding our resident animals. Reservations required. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 1:30p Biscuit Miller Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 3-6p

Tuesday, 18 Forrester-Webelos Pin Learn the wonders of wood including the parts of a tree, the habitat and growing conditions needed for healthy living. Registration required. $9, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 6-8p Wednesday, 19 Moore Lecture Featuring speaker Derreck Kayongo, founder of the Global Soap Project and Top 10 CNN Hero of 2011.

He will present "From Homeless Refugee to Living the American Dream." Albert Taylor Theatre [Millikin University] 9a

$7 (member), 10 (non-member), Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, cmofil.org, 423.5437] 6-8p Friday, 21 Family Fun Come on out for a night of family fun. We will have a great family activity, snacks, and fellowship. This is a great opportunity for young families to connect with each other.

Antioch Christian Church [5409 E US Rt 36] 6-8p Family Fun Night Join us for a movie, crafts, games and healthy snacks. Free to members, $5 Prospective members. Decatur Family YMCA [220 W McKinley, 872.9622, www. decaturymca.org] 6:30p

West End Boogie Project Culinary Arts Dinner Sliderz Bar [5995 US 36] 8p Reservations required. $15, Richland Couples/Singles Dance Community College [Shilling Center, 2.21-2.22 Live Band. $10, Knights of Columbus 875.7200 x740] Seating from 6-6:30p Comedy Hour Hall [520 E North St, 875.3090] 5-8p Josh Alton. $10-12, Main Hangar Open Game Night [910 S Airport Rd, 421.7452, Monday, 17 Family-friendly group playing board, mainhangarrestaurant.net] 8:30p Brilliant Bubbles card, and role-playing games.

A 4-H Cloverbud Workshop for Games available or bring your own. Saturday, 22 youth ages 5-7. Form bubbles Doherty's Pub & Pins [242 E William, Community Breakfast with your hands, make bubble www.decaturgamers.com] 5:30p Old Grade School foam, and create magic windows [275 N Kenwood, Argenta] 8-10a with bubbles! You must register in Greg Bickers advance. $5 (member), $7 (nonSliderz Bar [5995 US 36] 6:30p High School Vocal Jazz Festival member), Macon County Extension Kirkland Fine Arts Center Office [3351 N President Howard Thursday, 20 [Millikin University] 8a Brown Blvd, web.extension.illinois.

A Knight to Remember edu/dmp/, 877.6042] 9-11a Bring your adventurer to our Kids Wooden Initial Paint castle for a fun-filled "knight" to A fun kids class where your child remember. We will have a grand gets to create a fun painted feast, including a special knight wooden letter just like Elizabeth of brew! There also be entertainment Paint Like Me. Letters are approx. and merriment galore! Pre12� tall. Children under 6 must be registration, pre-payment required. accompanied by an adult. $25, The Perfect Pair [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] 10a-12p

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

Rube Goldberg Competition What is Rube Goldberg? It is a comically complicated invention designed to do a simple task. The object of this year's machine is to draw a line. The machine has to run on its own without human assistance. $3 (ages 2 and older), Free (teachers, students competing, 1 parent of each of those students), Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, cmofil.org, 423.5437] 10a-5p Sounds and Silence How well can an owl really hear?

How about a mouse? Can they hear better than a human? Find out the answers to all of these questions and more as we dive into the ears of the animals around us. Reservations required. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 10a Library Lego Club For boys and girls of all ages!

Includes story, snacks, and creative play. Registration required. Barclay Public Library District [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, barclay.lib.il.us, 672.3621] 10:30a Pool Tournament Prairieland ABATE [1901 N Railroad Ave] 6p sign up Layering Abstracts If abstract art is what catches your eye, this just might be perfect for you. The canvas size is 16x20. $50, The Perfect Pair [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] 12:30-2:30p Kevin Hart & The Vibe Tribe Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 3:30-5:30p Voodoo Lounge Sliderz Bar [5995 US 36, 864.9227] 4-7p Ashley Riley Release Show Paco's Sol Bistro [237 N Main] 8-11p

Brushfire Sliderz Bar [5995 US 36] 9p Charlie Crider Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 9p-12a Sunday, 23 Daytona 500 Potluck & Race Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 11ish Daytona 500 Party Prairieland ABATE [1901 N Railroad Ave] time TBD Bridal Expo Mt Zion Convention Center [1400 Mt Zion Parkway, Mt Zion, www. elegantbridalexpo.com, 679.0204] 12-4p

Tuesday, 25 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 Open Game Night Family-friendly group playing board, card, and role-playing games.

Games available or bring your own.

Mancinos Pizza and Grinders [2805 N Main, www.decaturgamers.com] 5:30p

Wednesday, 26 Family Book Bash Children aged 0-7 will learn fascinating facts after listening to the book Moon (Jump Into Science) Answering Your

by Steve Tomcek. We will discuss Genealogy Questions the night and day sky, create our The panel of genealogists will help own moon crafts and delight in to resolve some of your questions a fun night-sky-inspired snack. about family research. Please submit $1 (member), $6 (non-member), questions at the library or mail to Children's Museum of Illinois [55 the library. There will be a short S Country Club Rd, cmofil.org, meeting then refreshments and 423.5437] 9-9:45a & 10-10:45 research time. Genealogical Society Library [1255 W South Side Dr] 1-4p Live Karaoke Band Sliderz Bar [5995 US 36] 8p Shape Note Singing Rock Springs Nature Center Thursday, 27 [3939 Nearing Ln, www.

Paint Like Me maconcountyconservation.org, Elizabeth VanHoutan. Katz [112 N 423.7708] 2-4p Merchant] 6:30p Wild and White Explore what causes albino animals as we examine specimens, watch films and read stories about these rare creatures. Reservations required. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 2p Percussion Ensembles "Synergy" Concert Percussion Ensemble "Synergy" showcases the distinctiveness of Millikin's ubiquitous interdisciplinary alliances through a collaborative concert featuring performances by students and faculty across the College of Fine Arts. $8, Kirkland Fine Arts Center [Millikin University, 424.6318] 4p

Friday, 28 Jesse Hite Call for reservations; this kid packs the house! Paco's Sol Bistro [237 N Main, 330.6483] 8-11p Soul Purpose Sliderz Bar [5995 US 36] 8p LHP Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 9p-12a 2.28-3.1 Spring Craft Show Mt Zion Convention Center [1400 Mt Zion Parkway, Mt Zion, 864.5424] 7-9p (Fr) & 8a-3p (Sa)

February 2014 | 27

Paint Provides

New Party Palette Written by Heather Meadows Photos by Sarah Jane

Have you ever wished you had the talent needed to paint or construct a masterpiece?

Do you scroll Pinterest or other artsy sites and think, “I wanna do that!”? Whether you’ve never picked up a paintbrush or you label yourself a “seasoned artist,” we’ve got the answer to your artistic dilemma: painting parties! If you want to paint, learn new techniques and socialize with friends, then voila!

Paint Like Me! Party owner Elizabeth VanHoutan has been a decorative artist for 17 years. Paint Like Me! Party was conceived in June 2013 after Elizabeth spent years putting 28 | February 2014

her creative abilities to work in some of the country’s most fabulous homes. Ultimately, she decided she wanted to do something fun and social that would allow her to share her talents with others and would no longer include standing on a ladder for hours.

She recognized the resurgence in people wanting to do creative projects yet needing assistance for crafting them. Currently, she runs her business doing what she enjoys most: inspiring people through art.

Whether you’re interested in a couples’ party, a girls’ night, a child’s birthday party, or a team-building exercise or you simply want to learn or sharpen a skill, Paint Like Me!

February 2014 | 29

Party can bring your idea to life. Elizabeth will come to you for a home party or meet you at The Perfect Pair Antiques and Salon in Warrensburg for a creative outing. Hosting requires space for two 6-foot tables and sink access. She supplies the rest. Bring snacks and your favorite beverages, and get ready to have a great time and be inspired!

Choose from a range of options, like a 16x20” canvas for $50 per person, or have an 8x10” canvas party for up to eight people for $150.

Elizabeth works to make sure her clients learn new skills; they don’t just show up and paint a picture. She uses acrylics, plus an array of other choices. She incorporates products such as crackle paste, lusterstone and mica flakes…just to name a few. When finished, her clients take home not only their masterpieces but also knowledge and skills for their ongoing artistic journey!

Elizabeth now also offers several options for corporate team-building painting sessions.

For instance, individual canvases can be painted by each team member. Another example is each member painting a portion

Main Hangar

Comedy Hour

of every team member’s canvas. Or each team member paints a canvas portion of what is ultimately a large team mural. There are endless possibilities!

In addition to Paint Like Me! Parties, the Perfect Pair hosts an eclectic selection of classes including Layering Abstracts, Van Gogh Chalk Paint Collections, Wooden Initial Paint for Kids and Pinterest-inspired Windows and Fancy Frames. Owner Wanda Timmons has spent years mastering the furniture redo business. At The Perfect Pair, she’s adopted the motto, “Your imagination is our creation.”

She wanted people to have the opportunity to get together for entertainment and learn a skill, so she began offering the popular painting parties in June 2013.

Mandi Morlan deals with the social and media aspect of The Perfect Pair’s business and puts the programs together. She’s pleased that the majority of painters in the classes become repeat artists who come back for classes time and again. People love the step-by-step, no-experience-needed environment.

Charlie Wiener with: Bryan Morris

Friday, Feb. 7 Saturday, Feb. 8 8:30 p.m. both nights

- PRESENTED BY -

Josh Alton with Jeff Scheen

Friday, Feb. 21 Saturday, Feb. 22 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.

30 | February 2014

Mike Gardner with Jeff Oskay

Friday, Mar. 7 Saturday, Mar. 8 8:30 p.m. both nights

The Main Hangar

Serving Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & All You Can Eat Sunday Brunch Buffet

Classes at The Perfect Pair can occupy up to 12 eager individuals. Food and drink are welcome! Experiences range from $25 to $150, which includes materials (you provide the frame or window for the window class), knowledge and a couple of hours of creativity and fun!

Bring your friends, open your favorite bottle of wine, and get ready to be inspired by a local artist to guide you through a featured painting technique. Classes are geared for beginners so bring your friends, co-workers, plan a unique date night, or even come by yourself for an unforgettable time of fun, friends, and fine art! At the end of the session, leave with your own masterpiece.

It’s time to get your creative groove on!

Heather Meadows is a freelance writer. She also really really hearts chocolate strawberries.

Get There

For Paint Like Me! Parties, contact Elizabeth VanHoutan at 454-3011 or chicpaint@gmail. com, or visit paintlikemeparty.blogspot.com.

For classes at The Perfect Pair, contact 672-8822 or theperfectpair01@gmail.com, or visit theperfectpairantiquesandsalon. wordpress.com.

February 2014 | 31

F

e

b

r

u

CHOCOLATE CHERRY MARTINI

Throughout the month of February

a

r

y

Superbowl Potluck - Sunday, 2/2, noon-ish

$5

Noah's Back Alley Blues Band Sunday, 2/9, 3-6p

Biscuit Miller - Sunday, 2/16, 3-6p Daytona 500 Potluck & Race Sunday, 2/23, 11-ish

112 Merchant Street | 217.330.7802 Tu-Th 4-11p, Fr-Sa 4-2a

Valentines Day Splash! Dueling Piano Dinner/Dance Saturday, February 8th Event Begins at 7:00pm (doors open at 6:30)

A night of professional dueling on the ivory keys and Fletcher Park Splash Pad Fundraiser hosted by the Mt. Zion Parks and Recreation Commission. Tickets must be purchased in advance to secure reservation. Tickets on sale Jan. 3, 2014 at: The Village of Mt. Zion, ETIX, Kenny’s Ace Hardware, Sav Mor Pharmacy, and Mt. Zion Family Video. Items for Silent Auction are being accepted; contact Judy at 864-5424.

Cost: $40.00 Single and $75.00 a couple. A portion of the ticket is tax deductible.

Sponsorship packages available by contacting Kelly at 217-864-5424.

Jim Belushi & The Chicago Board of Comedy Friday, March 7th Event Begins at 8pm (doors open at 7pm)

Jim Belushi returns to his live performance roots alongside Robert Belushi, Larry Joe Campbell, Jon Barinholtz, Megan Grano, and Brad Morris in this improv comedy performance. Tickets must be purchased in advance to secure reservation. Tickets on sale at The Village of Mt. Zion (credit card accepted) or ETIX. Cost: $30.00.

Sponsorship packages available by contacting Kelly at 217-864-5424.

Mt. Zion Convention Center • 1410 Mt. Zion Parkway • 217-864-5424 32 | February 2014

Continue the Chain Reaction

by Sue Powell with Grow Decatur

by Chris Phillips

“I am only one, but I am still one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something.”

– Helen Keller As we embark on the third year of Grow Decatur, I was kindly asked to write an article on how our organization has started a chain reaction for improving our community. It started me thinking… What has been the driving force for us?

How have we moved forward? What’s been the cause, and what’s been the effect?

Not to get all JFK here, but what are you going to do for your community? How can you help become a link in Decatur’s chain reaction? It’s easy to sit back and Monday-morning quarterback, but what skills, time, resources or thoughts do you possess that you’re willing to share to move our community forward? A change of this magnitude I know what some of you are thinking. Grow definitely takes more than the 20 or so people Decatur. Didn’t we see a group like this 10 years working on a Grow Decatur committee. It takes a ago? Twenty years ago? Heck, some of you reading “village,” so to speak. this may even have been a part of some of these Just picture it. A Decatur where the population is “make our community a better place” initiatives increasing instead of aging. Local businesses are from the past. opening in new cities not because they’re leaving, But this one seems a little different to me. For one but because they’re expanding. Other cities are thing, Grow Decatur is still here after two years. coming to us to get best practices to improve their We definitely haven’t had all of the answers, but education offering and housing starts instead of our longevity has to mean something. We haven’t seeing empty homes. A renewed sense of hope with new industries or businesses like an Amazon. given up on Decatur. And neither should you. com moving into our community because of our Sure, I could talk to you about all of the amazing logistical uniqueness. Pride and excitement when projects like the Midwest Inland Port, education discussing Decatur instead of conversations about enhancements, the lakefront development or layoffs, companies moving and crime-ridden ways the group is trying to improve the housing neighborhoods. This isn’t the stuff of dreams. It can availability in the community. If you’ve been be ours. We just have to force that reaction. following us at all, you’ve probably heard it all before. But I’ve only got about 700 words, and And THRIVE being an entertainment guide, I would you can read all about these awesome, game- be remiss if I didn’t mention what this means for changing initiatives on our website at www. the community in terms of making Decatur a growdecatur.org. Their explanations are much wonderful place to live and love. New people with new ideas and new needs will be spurred by the better than I could do, anyway. growth of our population and additional revenues.

So, what do I want to discuss? For me, the most New venues will be created; more citizens will relevant point is a simple, scientific principle. be available to join our local clubs, leagues and For every action, there is an equal and opposite organizations, and big-city amenities and retailers reaction. Basically - Grow Decatur has been a will all be drawn to our community. And if that’s catalyst. We have begun the discussions. We have not enough to convince you, I have one word that raised the issue. It’s now your turn to become a might change your mind: Chipotle. link in that chain. And while the reactions thus far seem incremental, the opportunities they Tongue in cheek aside, we know you want to help are affording us could be monumental. These Grow Decatur. And we certainly welcome you. initiatives could turn everything around, and that But we can’t be everywhere. Don’t wait for us to be your catalyst for change. You don’t need to be may be an understatement. sitting on some Grow Decatur committee to get I want to see our citizens standing up, ignoring permission to start your chain reaction. This is your the naysayers and getting ready to be counted. call to action. So get up, make a plan, start a project This is your chance to make a difference. and do “something.” And contact us when you do.

Don’t miss it. This may be the best one.

We’ll be here to help.

Chris Phillips is the Vice-President of Marketing for Land of Lincoln Credit Union and serves on the Grow Decatur planning and operations committee. Weirdly, he loves chalky, candy hearts.

February 2014 | 33

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Kirkland Fine Arts Center

Masters of Motown tkts tkts

Adult $15-$30 Child $7.50-$15 217.424.6318

ALSO UPCOMING: Tomáseen Foley’s Irish Tales Saturday, March 8 - 7:30 p.m.

www.kirklandfinearts.com 34 | February 2014

SPOT THE

DIFFERENCES For a chance to win

Main hangar comedy Show tickets and FREE dinner for two!

Tickets are to a future show of your choice with dinner including an appetizer, bottle of wine, 2 entrees, and dessert!

910 South Airport Road | 217.421.7452 | www.mainhangarrestaurant.net

original

2 WAYS TO WIN:

1. Find all 6 differences and earn 2 entries! Send an email by Feb. 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 Feb. 15 to see the password. Email us the password along with your name to earn 1 entry. Winners will be drawn on or around Feb 16, notified by email, and published in the Mar. issue. One entry per email address.

Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge ®

®

Illinois

Take The Plunge!

The Law Enforcement Torch Run® Polar Plunge® to benefit the athletes of Special Olympics Illinois

Noon, March 8

The Beach House, Lake Decatur Register at:

www.plungeillinois.com or call 217-428-9255 Official Partner

Minimum donation $75

All “Plungers” receive a hooded sweatshirt!

Sponsored by

Presented by

Magic 98

FM

www.decaturradio.com

Choose ... wisely

You could win the

What will you wear to the Polar Plunge?

2014 THRIVE Craziest Costume Contest!

First Place Trophi awarded for both es and gift certificates certificates awar Team & Individual. Gift place in each cateded for second and third gory.