April 2014 Thrive Entertainment Guide

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE CHALLENGE: Decatur Area Arts Council

Ink as Art Tattooers Work with the

Widest of Palettes

Featuring: The Decatur area’s handiest Events Calendar

FREE

Apr 2014

Mt. Zion's New Age Art Center Direct Connection to Art & Entrepreneurship SPOTLIGHT// Art on the Side, Please

ART SPEAK// A World without Art?

FOOD DUDE// Time to Cook the Books

FIND THRIVE! DECATUR, DOWNTOWN • All Things Beautiful Collectibles and Gifts

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 Beth DeBouck T. F. Dude Jerry Johnson Kim Mangan Heather Meadows Rachel Peabody Robin Walters Photographers: Elizabeth Highcock Sarah Jane Travis Lickey 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 | April 2014

• An Affair to Remember • Avon Theater • Baker Law Office • Bizou • Blue Connection • Board Knight • 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 • 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 • Pla-Mor 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 Station-South 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 CareFairview • 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 Union-Oakland • 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 DriveIn 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' 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. 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 • Barclay Library • Da Burg • The Perfect Pair Antiques & Salon

in this ISSUE

issue #59 | April 2014 www.thrivedecatur.com

COVER: Jesse Blunt's inks at Tattoo U. Photo by Travis Lickey

BEHIND THE THRIVE

March Out & About

SPOTLIGHT: Art on the Side, Please

Party Crashers' Crash of the Month

ART SPEAK: A World without Art?

Publisher's Pick of the Month

FOOD DUDE: Time to Cook the Books Ink as Art April Events Calendar Mt. Zion's New Age Art Center Art & Entrepreneurship

Spot the Difference Challenge

THRIVE

is created and printed locally, in Decatur, IL.

04 05 08 09 10 11 12 14 18 29 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 April 2014 | 03

BEHIND THE

THRIVE

“Art is everywhere, except it has to pass through a creative mind.” - Louise Nevelson

CONGRATS TO OUR March WINNER:

Breanna Lahniers

Ain’t that the truth! And ain’t it grand?

Art really is everywhere and offers something for every taste.

Being that even journalism is an art, we thought we’d use our dual journalistic and artistic license to explore art in its many forms around Decatur. So this issue holds a full palette of possibilities to feast the mind, body, eye and soul.

Explore the unique canvas of tattooing’s extraordinarily artistic expression in all its genres.

March Answers:

1. Papa Murphy's logo appears on wall 2. Cup of peppers tips over 3. Peppers appear on pizza 4. Family size replaced with pan 5. Ray's apron disappears 6. Logo on Kim's shirt disappears

Play the April Spot the Difference Challenge on p.35

Catch

PENGUIN FEVER Zoo Opens April 5!

www.scovillzoo.com 04 | April 2014

Network with Blue Connection’s own brand of decidedly unacademic expression and entrepreneurship.

Get inside the latest age of art at Mt. Zion’s fresh new art center, Heroic Age. Get down with art at Decatur restaurants perfecting the recipe for epicurean delights and artistry effortlessly combined.

Put favorite passions together to appeal to all kinds of palates (and taste buds!) at the Edible Book Festival.

Great art picks up where you want it to – so bon appétit!

Out & About

A look back at last month’s happenings

Polar Plunge Hundreds of Special Olympics supporters took the Polar Plunge on Saturday, March 8, in front of the Beach House. THRIVE Entertainment Guide sponsored the costume contest and had judges on site scoring participants in team and individual categories.

April 2014 | 05

Out & About

A look back at last month’s happenings

Kids Rock

Macon Resources put on a heck of a party March 8! Mr. Singer and the Sharp Cookies serenaded guests while kids were treated to face painting and crazy hair colors. Papa Murphy's Pizza ran a mini-Murph assembly, line and Scovill showed off its mobile zoo.

Not-So-Weird Science

The Institute for Science Entrepreneurship at Millikin presented EPL Bio Analytical Services' CEO Robin King in a speaker series that concludes April 10 with ADM's Mark Matlock. King reintroduced EPL, a local lab that provides global services to ag, biotech, food ingredient and feed industries.

Drag Show

Downtown Decatur was not at a loss for entertainment during the annual Mardi Gras celebration in early March. Among the shows to see was a drag show at Katz on Merchant. The Drag Queens performed songs by diva legends including Dolly Parton.

06 | April 2014

St. Pat's Day Parade Parade participants marched through the crowded streets of Downtown Decatur during the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 15.

Run to LSB

Kickin' off this year's St. Patrick's Day Parade, runners and walkers christened the parade route making their way to Lock Stock & Barrel on Oakland for celebratory green beer.

Traveling Science Center Curious how those garden bugs life cycle or what makes those plants grow? The Home, Lawn & Garden Show added a free precursor this year. Attendees could voyage through a science lesson just outside in the Illinois Natural History Survey Traveling Science Center.

April 2014 | 07

08

SPOTLIGHT

by Rachel Peabody

Robbies Grille photo: Sarah Jane

Art on the Side, Please It’s no secret that downtown Decatur has an excellent array of local fare—and you can’t paint it with a broad brush.

Along with unique flavors, several downtown restaurants also feature local artists and prints, complementing the eating experience with a flair for fine art.

Bizou Owner Megan Comerford describes both the art and food at Bizou as “eclectic.”

“Whether it be the artwork or the food, we create a diverse menu and dining experience that have something to appeal to every diner,” she says.

The Comerfords, who have owned Bizou for the past nine years, have created a gallery-like experience by featuring local artists on their walls.

They have also created a one-of-a-kind dining experience that features a menu with favorites such as escargot, osso buco and Turducken. All of their recipes feature premium, fresh ingredients and often feature seasonal ingredients.

“We partner with local artists in the community and Millikin students,” she says. “It creates a visuallyappealing atmosphere for us and allows our local talent an opportunity to hopefully sell their work.”

Artwork is always changing, keeping the atmosphere fresh and new.

“It definitely adds to Bizou’s unique personality,” she says.

If you’re interested in purchasing a piece from Bizou, the Comerfords will put you directly in touch with the artist.

Robbies Grille Charming, cozy and hip – all three words come to mind when trying to capture the essence that is Robbies Grille.

Robbies is well-known to local diners for the food, which is art in itself, as well as for Shani Goss artwork that adorns the walls.

“I love Shani’s work, and I know our customers do as well,” says Rodney Powell, owner of Robbies Grille for the last nine years but who has spent over 24 years with the restaurant in the capacity of dishwasher, chef, general manager and now owner.

“I like to feature Shani’s music-inspired work,” Powell says. “’Man In Black,’ a tribute to Johnny Cash, is currently on display, and it’s a customer favorite.”

Janis Joplin, The Rolling Stones, Lou Reed and The Beatles are just a few of the other artists featured in the unique Shani originals currently on display.

Over the years, Robbies Grille has sold over 20 of her pieces.

The artwork is ever-changing, and so are the daily food specials. Rodney suggests new diners try “Tortilla Tuesday,” where their tortilla soup sells by the bowl full.

“All of our food is handmade and homemade; we only use fresh ingredients, and we don’t own a deep fryer or microwave,” Powell says.

Fine dining and fine art—it’s a pairing sure to please at Bizou and Robbies Grille downtown.

Rachel Peabody is a freelance writer.

08 | April 2014

r u t a DecRASHERS C PARTY

CRASH of the Month

Family Science Sunday: Bird Sleuths!

Birds of a feather, PARTY CRASH together!

Join our Family Science Sunday and become an Illinois Bird Super Sleuth!

• learn how to identify birds • nature walk • play bird bingo Free with general admission.

Sunday, April 13 from 2-4p

Children's Museum of Illinois 55 S Country Club Rd, cmofil.org, 423.5437 facebook.com/groups/ DecaturPartyCrashers jccaulkins@aol.com

April 2014 | 09

10

ART SPEAK

A World without art?

We would drive to work in box-shaped automobiles, probably painted grey or black. Our clothes, houses, and buildings would be manufactured simply to keep us warm and dry. Style and image serve no purpose, so color, fashion, and architecture wouldn’t be necessary.

The radio would only broadcast news and weather because music doesn’t fulfill a need. TV shows and movies would all be news and documentaries. The only books we would need would be dictionaries, histories and how-to manuals. After all, what can you learn from fiction and poetry? The only reason we would need to photograph or draw something would be to include it in a reference book. The writer George Bernard Shaw said, "Without art, the crudeness of reality would make the world unbearable."

Here in Decatur, arts-related places, events and groups would probably not exist, or they would be just a shadow of what we know them to be: the

by Jerry Johnson

Some people hear the words “the arts” and think of old paintings or opera or ballet. They feel that the arts don’t impact their lives or are out of reach, but, in fact, the arts are all around us. Art is so much a part of our daily lives that we often just take it for granted. Try to imagine how bland the world would be without the arts. What if the only value we put on something was how “useful” it was, how efficiently it could accomplish a task? What if we removed everything that didn’t fulfill our three basic needs of food, shelter and clothing? What if no creativity was applied to making even those necessary items because beauty doesn’t add value to its function?

Decatur Municipal Band, the Avon Theatre, Debbie’s Dance Studio, St. Patrick's Church, or even Millikin University. There would be no murals on downtown buildings, no live music at LSB or Donnie’s, and definitely no Arts in Central Park.

The arts help us imagine and think creatively. Do you draw or paint, play or listen to music, sing, take photos, write stories or poems, design or make clothes or even dress yourself in the morning? All of these things are examples of that creative impulse that we all have, whether we are aware of it or not.

Art helps us interpret and talk back to the world and make sense of life. The arts are not stuffy and dry. The arts make up the things that make our lives interesting and fun. They add beauty and joy.

Whether or not you enjoy of the paintings of Pablo Picasso, you can’t disagree with him when he said, “The purpose of art is to wash the dust of daily life off our souls.” I can imagine a lot of things, but I can’t imagine a world without art.

Jerry Johnson is the Executive Director of the Decatur Area Arts Council and may be spotted pretty much anywhere art is happening.

10 | April 2014

Publisher's

Pick of the Month * Signature Pizzas * Gourmet Pizzas * Salads * Cheesy Bread * Cinnamon Wheels * S’Mores Dessert Pizza * Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough * Mini Murph Kits * 255 W. Mound Road Target Center * Decatur 217-875-1700

Just a little something we ran across and wanted to share.

Ceramic Treasure Box

$29.00

By Alan Waterman and Xin Zhao (Water)

BC Studios, 117 N. Water Street photo: Kat Smalley

This little Treasure Box was a wonderful find at the March First Friday Gallery Walk. The little domed lid lifts off to reveal a compartment that will hold many treasures in the future, I'm sure!

Handcrafted by a small family of potters, (Alan, Xin (Water) and son Zhao), this piece was built "in the USA from American mud." Water is a Junior at Millikin University, majoring in Studio Art, and I had the pleasure of sharing studio space with her while taking a Ceramics course at Richland Community College a few semesters ago!

These humble potters are dedicated to producing handcrafted ceramic items that will replace disposables far into the future.

April 2014 | 11

12

THE FOOD DUDE

"Lime and Punishment" from the 2013 Edible Book Festible

Time to Cook the Books So you love food and you love books… what’s better than a book about chocolate? How about a book made from chocolate?

by T. F. DUDE

Entries have to be edible and be able to sit out without melting or otherwise imploding. They can and have been made of cake, bread, crackers, Jell-O, fruit, vegetables, candy, many other foods and much, much creativity. The overlying rule: The shape or theme has to be related to books.

Past entries have included such works of art as • a chocolate bookworm • a Red Badge (of Courage) cake • a plate with a Johnny Bench baseball card in the center surrounded by slices of rye bread and cheese (Catcher in the Rye, Con Queso) • a veggie pizza quilt (The Quilt Maker’s Gift) • "Cake-enstein: The Modern Deliciousness," submitted by Sigma Tau Delta/English Club and winner of the 2013 Favorite Group Entry.

Made of vanilla garden cake, devil's food cake, strawberry cake, pineapple cake and cream cheese coffee cake muffins • "Polio: An American Story,” submitted by Chemistry 482: Chemistry Seminar Class and chosen as the 2010 Best in Show. It included syringe shaped cake, polio virus cookies, lollipop cookies and Jell-O syringes • "Cloudy with a Chance of Hamburgers,” a delectable confection comprised of Nilla wafers, chocolate and more. It was submitted

by Decatur Christian School and won the 2010 Entry I Most Want to Eat award as well as the Millikin's Choice - Best Group Entry.

Want to check out all of previous entries?

There’s a feast for the eyes on the Staley Library’s Facebook page!

You can see that and more this month in Decatur at Millikin University, and you can bet this dude will be there ready to turn some pages. Crack the cover on the 6th Annual Edible Book Festival, www.facebook.com/staleylibrary/photos_albums.

Wednesday, April 9.

You can vote on your favorite edible books from noon to 2 pm. (Awards will be given for Best Solo Entry, Best Team Entry, Punniest Entry, Entry I Most Want to Eat and Most Creative Use of Ingredients.)

Then starting at 12:30 pm, you can actually sample the books for yourselves (consumption of the books commences!). They even provide beverages.

We’re talking some true culinary creativity here.

Basically, here’s what you’ll be seeing (and tasting): Groups of all sizes from campus and the community can submit entries. (All entry fees will be donated to the Good Samaritan Inn of Decatur.)

Get There: Edible Book Festival Millikin University, Staley Library, 1184 W. Main St., Decatur Wednesday, April 9 12 to 2 pm (or until all the leftovers are eaten!)

Voting starts at noon, book consumption at 12:30 pm Questions? 424-3957 or apippitt@millikin.edu

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

12 | April 2014

April 2014 | 13

Ink as Art Written by Joli A. Hohenstein | Photos by Travis Lickey

Once relegated to long sleeves, back rooms and military ports of call, tattooing has become a burgeoning sector of the art world, exploding with talent and potential. Always expanding in creativity and ever increasing in popularity, it’s become an expression appealing to a broadranging base from bankers to bikers, sailors to sorority girls (just don’t call it mainstream).

As Decatur’s own tattoo scene has grown, so has the level of talent and expression. We asked local tattooer Jesse Blunt, a classically trained artist and avid student of tattooing’s history, how ink and art have come together so creatively.

“In a lot of ways tattooing can be considered folk art,” says Jesse, who now works with renowned tattooer Charley Brown at Tattoo U. Most of the older tattoos were deceptively simple, with the fewest lines possible to make an impact. As more artists started getting into it, you saw designs start to get even more interesting.

“The true artistry started with guys like Cliff Raven in Chicago and Ed Hardy, who ushered in the era of tribal art—even coining the term ‘tribalism’,” says Jesse.

A successful painter, Hardy is nationally recognized for bringing artistic elements and outside influences into tattooing.

It’s a strategy Jesse well recognizes and uses. He started doing photo realism in high school, studied art and design at the University of Illinois and now likens his craft to the best commercial art gig in the world.

While throughout history tattoos have been influenced by culture, rank, performance and more in Japan, the Polynesian islands, Africa and beyond, advancements in technology and pigments have in turn led to huge advancements in expression.

Tattoos at their base let people on both sides of the needle express themselves.

Whether speaking of beauty, mortality, death, anger, love, they convey all of our fundamental emotions.

continued on page 16 14 | April 2014

Tattooers Work with the Widest of Palettes

Wizard of Oz drawings by Tattoo Artist Jesse Blunt

continued from page 15 Like anything else, though, even tattooing has its cycles, Jesse says of the art’s more mainstream movement of late: “There’s going to come a time when parents are the ones who have tattoos.” However it goes down, one thing’s always for sure— tattooing adapts to the times, expresses the emotions and provides art for the ages.

Common Genres of Tattooing American Traditional – characterized by relatively limited color palette (black, red, green, yellow), heavy black usage for contrast, bold line weight, isolated single images Newer 70s & 80s – characterized by more wild colors, more neons, small art (daisies on hips), lots of single needle work, anything you could do as small as you could

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16 | April 2014

Traditional Japanese – characterized by background as the primary element of the design, bold color palette, lots of hand work, little machinery involved New School (particularly in the 90s) – characterized by as flashy as you could get, shiny and twisted, the crazier and more messed up, the better Tribal – characterized by bold, black, heavy designs with skin tones in between Neo-traditional – characterized by bending the rules instead of shattering them, more polished, in the style of Ed Hardy taking things and changing them, modifying/updating common phrases like “Luck Be a Lady” or “Love Thy Neighbor”

How to Choose a Tattooer Look at the portfolio, whether in the shop or online. Are the styles similar to what you’re after? Is the line work clean?

Don’t be afraid to choose flash, the art that’s predone, off the walls and ready to go. (It’s a term that comes from the circus, where art was the flashier the better, to catch people’s eyes.) Good tattooers can also modify flash to suit your style.

Do your homework—you wouldn’t buy a car without research; why would you make a permanent change to your body without it?

Consider the longevity of a shop.

Go by feel—if you like the vibe and have a certain comfort level there, there’s something to be said for that.

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Take the time to find what you want— there is a tattoer who does it.

Ask about cost – if it seems too good to be true, it is. Cost is affected by size, placement on the body, intricacy of design, colors and length of time/number of sessions.

You get what you pay for—it’s not unusual for tattoers to spend hours researching, sketching and re-sketching… and that’s before they even prepare the art they’ll use to tattoo you.

Be wary of tattoo magazines—they’re only showing the best of the best, and a reproduction of what’s there is often only attainable by the most elite of artists.

Whether you’re looking for a new job or exploring new careers, you’ll find many local employers eager to talk!

ET CENTE RKN R WO •

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THURSDAY | APRIL 10, 2014 | 11am - 3pm For more information call: 217.875.7211, Ext. 243

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April 2014 | 17

April Events

EVERY DAY Artist Jerry Sievers This amazing artist photographs birds, dragonflies, turtles, flowers, beautiful woodlands, and prairies. Rock Springs Nature Center [South Gallery, 3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708] 8a-5p (Mo-Fr), 8:30a-4:30p (Sa), 1-4p (Su) Artist Sue Watts Take in the masterful representations of flora, fauna, and nature scenes in watercolor by artist Sue Watts. Rock Springs Nature Center [North Gallery, 3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708] 8a-5p (Mo-Fr), 8:30a-4:30p (Sa), 1-4p (Su) 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]

Country Line Dance Come join a fun-filled evening, meet new people and learn to country line dance. No sign up. Great exercise! $6, Knights of Columbus Hall [520 E North St, 764.3070] 7-8p (Class), Gardening Program (4.21, 4.28) 8-9p (Dance) Herbs (4.21), Urban Farming (4.28).

Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin] EVERY TUESDAY Storytime 5p Children 2-5 years old are welcome to join us for a story, snacks, and a craft.

Junior Golf Spring Training (thru Caregivers are required to participate.

4.21) Juniors can get their game tuned up Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, 672.3621, barclay.lib. for the season with the help of Park il.us] 10:30a District Golf Pros. Participants can have their swings analyzed with the V1 coaching software and learn more Decatur Chess Club about rules and course management. Players of all levels are welcome.

Doherty's Pub & Pins [242 E William For youth aged 10-16. $50-59, DISC St] 6:30p [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 5:30-6:30p will use simple objects to discover patterns of various shapes, sizes, and color. Children must be accompanied by an adult. $30-35, DISC [1295 W Wood, 429.3472] 10-10:30a

Monday Night Draft Come out and draft Magic the Gathering every Monday! $12, Board Knight [228 W Main, boardknight. com] 6p

Lady Planeswalker Society (LPS) Art Exhibit LPS is an unofficial play group seeking Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, to create a welcoming, friendly www.decaturlibrary.org, 424.2900] environment for women to learn how to play Magic the Gathering. This does Karaoke not mean the group is exclusively Josh in a Bucket (Su), Josh n Crown women, either. The primary goal (Mo), A Bottle of CT (Tu), Karaoke/ is to teach people who are not Dancing with Jacob (We), Karaoke-rita comfortable with the tournament with CT (Th), Karaoke/Dancing with scene how to play. Free, Board Knight Jacob (Fr), Danrel & Funk DJ/Karaoke [228 W Main, boardknight.com] 6p (Sa). Cafe Brio [2880 N Oakland, 875.2746] 9p-2a Swing Night Swing out (aka dance) to some EVERY MONDAY vintage big band and Dixieland jazz.

Preschool Activity - Exploring No partner, experience or special Patterns (4.21-5.19) shoes required. NWRAPS Clubhouse Children aged 18 months – 4 years [234 S College St, 630.999.8231, soycity.org] Free beginner lesson 7-8p, free social dancing 8-11p

Magic Draft Night The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 6:30p Stevie Ray Kelton Lincoln Square Lounge [121 N Main, 423.2180] 9p-1a

EVERY WEDNESDAY Coffee Club Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, 672.3621] 9:30a Wednesday Night Board Gaming with the Decatur Gamers Play your favorite tabletop game, or try a new one! Free, Board Knight [228 W Main, boardknight.com] 6p Belly Dancing $15, Healing Arts Boutique & Studios [952 E Eldorado Ste 103, 917.2359] 5:30p Casual Commander at Board Knight Join us for a very casual night of Commander! Free, Board Knight [228 W Main, boardknight.com] 6p

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

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 Mobile Soundz Karaoke Featuring Troy Hayes. Woody's Bar [1190 W South Side Dr] 9p-1a Open Mic Night Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland St] 9:30p Karaoke & Water Pong Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 10p-2a

EVERY WEDNESDAYSATURDAY Docta LD DJ/Karaoke Curly’s Bar & Pizza [2683 N Water, 875.9800] 9p-2a

Warmachine & Hordes Miniatures Night Learn how to build, paint, and play with your Warmachine & Hordes minis! Free, Board Knight [228 W Main, boardknight.com] 6p

EVERY SATURDAY 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

Open Board Gaming Play your favorite tabletop game, or Family Game Day try a new one! Free, Board Knight [228 Stop in and learn how to play games W Main, boardknight.com] 6p perfect for the family, like Rampage, Trains, Spot it, & Hive! Free, Board Stevie Ray Kelton Knight [228 W Main, boardknight.

Sliderz [5995 US 36] 9p-1:30a com] 12-6p Karaoke Karaoke with Troy Hayes. Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 9p-1a

Pathfinders Society The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 2p

DJ David Lee Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 10p-2a

Jazz Diversity (4.5), Jazz II & One Voice (4.12), Decatur Big Band (4.19). Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 3:305:30p

EVERY FRIDAY Storytime Children ages 2 and older are welcome to join us for stories, crafts, and food! Lunch provided.

Blue Mound Public Library [213 N St Marie, Blue Mound, 692.2774, bluemoundlibrary.lib.il.us] 10:45

EVERY THURSDAY Write Stuff Writers' Group Support, encouragement, and critiques for writers in all stages of development. Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe [256 W Main] 3:30p Fish Fry (thru 4.18) Knights of Columbus Hall Family Fun Night [520 E North St] 5:30p Our demo section is full of tons of fun games free for use. The Hidden Lair Friday Night Magic [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] Weekly tournament consisting of 3-10p both Standard & Modern formats. $5, Board Knight [228 W Main, D&D boardknight.com] 6:30p Dungeons & Dragons table game. The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Friday Night Magic Zion, 864.1851] 5p Standard and constructed formats available. Prize payout up to 3 packs of Kids Garden Art-Mosaic Flowerpot boosters per participate, $12 value. $5, In this three-part class, kids will The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt create a mosaic pot and finish by Zion, 864.1851] 6:30p planting flowers. 2nd grade and up.

Registration required. The Perfect EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY Pair Antiques & Salon [220 S Main St, Wine Tastings Warrensburg, 672.3621] 6p The Decanter Fine Wines [215 N Main St, 422.9463] 4-7p (Fr), 1-6p (Sa)

Saturday Night EDH! The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 6p Racing (thru 9.27) POWRI midgets, mini-springs (4.5), Full weekly racing (4.12), Driver-Sponsor Appreciation Photos & Autographs (4.19), POWRI midgets and minisprints plus full week racing (4.26).

Macon Speedway [205 N Wiles St, Macon, 764.3000, www.facebook. com/maconracing] Gates open 5p, racing 7p

EVERY SUNDAY Yu-Gi-Oh Win a box-sanctioned tournament.

First place gets a full box of the current booster set. $10, The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 1p Yu-Gi-Oh Advanced format with prizes to the top players. $5, Board Knight [228 W Main, boardknight.com] 1p Sunday Funday Draft Come out and draft the current MTG set! $12, Board Knight [228 W Main, boardknight.com] 4p

April 2014 | 19

April Events 3.30-4.23 Senior BFA Group Exhibitions Perkinson Gallery [Millikin University, www.millikin.edu] 12-5p (Mo-Fr)

Music for Meditation Jared Rixstine. First Baptist Church [1320 Arbor Drive, www.decaturfbc. com] 11:15a (Lunch), 12p (Concert)

Tuesday, 1 Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus When Mars and Venus collide, the adventures are earth-shatteringly hysterical. Join our favorite Martian and discover how to get a little "piece" on Earth! $40, Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, decaturciviccenter.org, 422.6161] 7:30p

Books Between Bites (BBB) How to Create the Perfect Wife by Wendy Moore. Thomas Day, an 18th century British writer decides to create his idea of a perfect mate. Day adopts two girls and sets out to make the “model� wife by extreme trials and sometimes cruel experiments.

Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, www.decaturlibrary.org] 12:15p

4.1, 4.3 & 4.5 Epoxy Finish Turntable We will show you how to make a beautiful piece for any dining table or kitchen counter. Each turntable has its own unique design. 3 part/ day class. $75 deposit required. $150, The Perfect Pair [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] 5:30-8:30p (Tu & Th), 3-5p (Sa)

Wednesday Women An informal group that meets the 1st Wed of each month to exchange ideas & take a break for THEMSELVES. Stop in for a little while or stay for the evening. Renew friendships or make new ones! McGorray's Golf & Grille [2027 N Water, 433.0834] 5-9p Greg Bickers Sliderz [5995 US 36] 6:30p

Wednesday, 2 Greater Decatur Chamber Business Breakfast Featured speaker is Brian McLemore of CQI Associates about the Energy Coop Program. The Decatur Club [158 W Prairie, www.decaturchamber. com] 7a

Thursday, 3 Community Leaders Breakfast Prepare to be inspired by Patrick Henry Hughes. Patrick has overcome amazing circumstances to achieve incredible heights! Decatur Conference Center & Hotel [4191 US 36 West, 421.7919] 7-9a

Wednesday Book Club We get the books and you read them! To register contact the library.

Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, barclay.lib.il.us, 672.3621] 10:30a

Genealogy $25 (for 4 classes), Decatur Genealogical Library [1255 W South Side] 7-9p Pastiche Opera Free, Kaeuper Hall [Millikin University, www.millikin.edu] 7:30p

4.3-4.5 Pride of the Prairie Marble Show Open to public all 3 days. Free admission. Country Inn & Suites [5150 Hickory Point Frontage Rd, 422.8454] Show display 9a-1p.

4.3-4.28 Poetic Dialogue A unique pairing of fourteen different poets and artists! Features a variety of styles: media-collage, painting, sculpture, ink drawings, mixed media, and fiber arts displayed with collaborative poems. Decatur Area Arts Council [Anne Lloyd Gallery, www.decaturarts.org, 423.3189] 8:30a4:30p (Mo-Fr), 10:00a- 2:00p (Sa) Friday, 4 Family Friday The Museum is extending its hours on the first Friday of each month!

Play late and enjoy food for purchase from Papa Murphy's Pizza from 5-7p. $5 (ages >=2), Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, cmofil. org, 423.5437] 9:30a -7p Storytime Children ages 2 and older are welcome to join us for stories, crafts, and food! Lunch provided. Blue Mound Library [213 N St Marie, Blue Mound, www.bluemoundlibrary.lib. il.us, 692.2774] 10:45a First Friday - Gallery Walks An interactive family-friendly event for all ages featuring performances

by READiculous, a fun improvisational Haiku Cut!, and poetry-inspired art-making in the studio. Madden Arts Center [125 N Water, www. decaturarts.org, 423.3189]; Featured Artist: Richard Colbeck. Gallery 510 [160 E Main, 422.1509] 5-7:30p Latin Jazz Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 5-7p

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

Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band Roaring out of the southern Indiana foothills comes Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band playing a brand of Americana and Blues that stands alone – Delta blues and hillbilly fervor combine with musical acuity sharp as razor wire – best know, this trio is a force to be reckoned with. $17, Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, 877.840.0457] 8p

Opening Day - Scovill Zoo Year of the penguin! Free (<=2), Scovill Zoo [71 S Country Club Rd, www. decatur-parks.org, 421.7435] 10a-7p

Legally Blonde Pre-Party Omigod, you guys… Come bend and snap before the performance.

Entertainment, hors d'oeuvres, fabulous prizes, shopping, pampering, Scrabble Jewelry cash bar, non-alcoholic drinks. Lower Learn the technique of transforming Richards Treat University Center Scrabble pieces into wearable jewelry. [1184 W Main, www.millikin.edu/ We'll provide the materials and legallyblonde, 424.6318] 5-7p the know-how to create a unique necklace. Call to register. Mt Zion Poetry Reading District Library [115 W Main, Mt Zion, Phil Shils will be reading from his 864.3622] 10a-11:30a Stevie Ray newly released chapbook of poems Sliderz [5995 US 36] 9p about life with his disabled daughter, Table Top Game Day! Lucia. Free, donations encouraged, 4.4-4.5 Board Knight [228 W Main] 10a Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Café [256 W Comedy Hour Main, 422.3300] 6:30p Floyd J. Phillips with Adam Degi . $10- VanGogh Paint 102 12, Main Hangar [910 S Airport Rd, Learn airbrush stenciling, furniture 7th Annual Spring Fling mainhangarrestaurant.net, 421.7452] frosting, & embossing stenciling.

Track champions were invited from 8:30p Must have already taken VanGogh 13 local speedways to battle for more 101 or have previous painting than just cash and a trophy in those 4.4-4.6 experience. $50 deposit required. three competitive classes. It’s about Legally Blonde: The Musical $125, The Perfect Pair [266 N St Rt 121, the pride that goes with beating Based on the novel by Amanda Brown Warrensburg, 672.8822] 10a-2:30p the best from the area’s other tracks. and the Metro-Goldwyn motion Macon Speedway [205 N Wiles St, picture. Su 2p. $12-19.50, Kirkland Fine Money Smart Kids Read Macon, www.maconracing.com] 7p Arts Center [1184 W Main, 424.6318] Have fun with money! The session 7:30p (Fr, Sa), 2p (Su) includes a story, activity, and takeBrat Pack home items. The first 20 families will Sliderz [5995 US 36] 9p 4.4-4.6 & 4.11-4.13 receive a free book to take home. [sic] Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S C4 Richland Community College [Shilling Country Club Rd, cmofil.org] 2-3p Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] Center, www.richland.edu/theatre/ 9p-1a productions] 7:30p (Fr, Sa) 3p (Su) A Celebration of Poetry The selections run the gamut Ordinary Van Saturday, 5 from poignant love poems and Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Rummage Sale for Missions meditations on death to lighthearted Oakland, donnieshomespun.com] 10p Tabernacle Baptist Church [650 N and humorous observations on the Wyckles] 8a-2p sometimes curious human condition. Sunday, 6 Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, Spring Wildflower Hike Decatur IL Moms Egg Hunt & Photo Show www.decaturlibrary.org] 3p Easter Bunny meet & greet, face Jerry Sievers will display some of his painting. Egg Hunt (10:30a). Free, photos and lead a hike to help visitors West End Boogie Project Fairview Park [decaturilmoms.com] 10a Sliderz [5995 US 36] 4p spot the beauty he captures on film in real life. Opportunity to win a Into the Wild: wildflower print to take home! For all LSA Dinner Auction: Birds by Song & Feather ages. Reservations by 4.4. Free, Rock Building for a Brighter Tomorrow Spring migration is happening.

Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Mt Zion Convention Center [1400 Identify arriving birds by their color Ln, www.maconcountyconservation.

Mt Zion Parkway, Mt Zion, www. patterns and their calls. Binoculars org, 423.7708] 2p lsadecatur.net, 233.2001] and field guides provided for each participant to use. Hike Hurricane Ruth Table Top Extravaganza through woodland, prairie and Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 3-6p The Hidden Lair [320 N St Highway aquatic habitats. Reservations 121, Mt Zion] required. Free, Rock Springs Nature Glen Gobel Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www.

West Decatur Church of God maconcountyconservation.org] 10a [4500 W Main] 6p

April 2014 | 21

April Events Tuesday, 8 Leadership Breakfast to Support Scouting Learn more about scouting and the Lincoln Trails Council. The Decatur Club [158 W Prairie, 429.2326] 7:308:30a

Live Karaoke Band Sliderz [5995 US 36] 9p

4.9-4.10 B for Butterflies Do you see that flash of color? There it goes! What a beautiful butterfly!

Flutter along during this handson class filled with science and Culinary Arts Luncheon imagination featuring our butterfly Seating from 11:30-12:30p. $10, Richland Community College [Shilling friends. Must be accompanied by an adult. $10, Rock Springs Nature Center, 875.7200 x740] 11:30a Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, American Girl Club 423.7708] 9:30-10:30a (We, Ages 1-5), Join us for our American Girl Club 1-2p (Th, Ages 3-5) where we introduce the history and culture of America during the Thursday, 10 different settings of the "American Book Discussion: Easter Island Girl" stories and enjoy fun activities and crafts. No doll required! Ages 7+, Argenta Library [100 E Water, Argenta, please register. Mt Zion District Library www.aopld.lib.il.us, 795.2144] 1:302:30p [115 W Main, Mt Zion, www.mtzion. lib.il.us, 864.3622] 4:30-5:30p A Night of Poetry This free event mixes original verse, Vocal Jazz Concert Free, Westminster Presbyterian Church celebrated poets, and heartfelt readings, live original music, [1360 W Main] 7:30p refreshments and an open mic!

Features published poets, spoken 4.8, 4.15, 4.21, 4.28 word and original poetry books Guitar Lessons at LSB For kids and adults. Free, Lock Stock & for purchase. Madden Arts Center [125 N Water, www.decaturarts.org, Barrel [129 S Oakland] 6p 423.3189] 6:30-8:30p Wednesday, 9 Music for Meditation Genealogy Julie Jamieson, Harp. First Baptist $25 (for 4 classes), Decatur Church [1320 Arbor Drive, www.

Genealogical Library [1255 W South decaturfbc.com] 11:15a (lunch) 12p Side] 7-9p (concert) The Fabulous Hoedads 6th Annual Edible Book Festival The Decatur Moose Lodge #684 [3190 Staley Library [Millikin University, N Woodford St, www.facebook.com/ www.millikin.edu/staley/about/ TheFabulousHoedads, 877.0143] edible] 12-2p 7-10p

Science Entrepreneurship Speaker Mark Matlock, ADM, Research Division. The role of scientists and entrepreneurs in finding the food, fuel, and chemicals needed for society to prosper. Open to the public. Free, Richards Treat University Center [Millikin University] 7:30p

4.10-4.12 Fairy Tale Ball Escort your princess down our red carpet to enjoy dancing, food, and fun activities-plus other magical surprises! Pre-registration, prepayment required. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult. $7 (member), $10 (non- member), Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, cmofil.org, 423.5437] 6-8p 4.10-4.13 On Stars Not Falling After a traumatic experience, a group of college friends drop out of school, only to reunite five months later for a party. An unforeseen guest interrupts the get-together and alters their lives forever. $6-10, Pipe Dreams Studio [1099 W Wood, www.pdtheatre.com] 7:30p (Th-Sa), 2p (Su) Friday, 11 Fish Fry in the Gym Our Lady of Lourdes Gym [3950 Lourdes Drive, www.ololschool.com] 4:30-7:30p Great Dates A couple's night out with free child care. Series message (6p), Plan private date (7-10p). First United Methodist Church [201 W North St, www. connectedpairs.com, 638.5545] 6-10p Trivia Night & Dinner Dinner (5:30p). BBQ sandwich, chips and a drink ($5) or hot dog, chips and a drink ($4). Registration for trivia (6p). 6 players per team (max). 10

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

rounds with 10 questions each round.

Snacks will be served and pop/water available for purchase. $5 (entry fee for trivia), $4-5 (dinner), ArgentaOreana High School [500 N Main, Argenta] 6:30p 360 Band Sliderz [5995 US 36] 8p LHP Paco's Sol Bistro [237 N Main, 330.6483] 8-11p Saints & Sinners Show & Silent Auction Nuns for Fun will perform a comedy about the difficult aspects of fundraising. 6:30p (doors open). $30, $35 (VIP), Our Lady of Lourdes Gym [3950 Lourdes Drive, www.ololschool. com, 520.8654] 8p Scott and Bman Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 8-11p

Saturday, 12 Macon Miles for CASA An ultra-marathon experience to raise awareness for Macon County CASA. 2- 5K distance runs will be set up as well. Jacobs & Hilvety Rd [maconcountycasa.org, 428.8424] 6:30-11:30a Rummage Sale Decatur Genealogical Library [1255 W South Side] 8a-4p 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 Down on the Farm Children ages 3-5 listen to a story, meet an animal, create a craft with their adult guests and snack on animal crackers! $9-10, Scovill Zoo [71 S Country Club Rd, www.decaturparks.org, 421.7435] 9:30-10:15a & 11-11:45a

Preschool Peepers: Ants in the Pants Ever have an ant join your picnic uninvited? We will conduct an experiment to see what foods from your plate an ant prefers, make a craft, and read a storybook. For ages 3-5 with adult companion. Reservations required by 4.11. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www.maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 10a Saturday Book Club Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, barclay.lib.il.us, 672.3621] 11a Easter Egg Hunt For children 5th grade and under.

Illini Park [220 E Main, Warrensburg, barclay.lib.il.us, 672.3621] 1p

Rock Hounds Bring your trowel or rock hammer to unearth some prehistoric fossils or other rock forms from a glacial Steve "Yoshi" Yocius kame. We will search for and identify Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S some animals that survived in Oakland, donnieshomespun.com] 9p Illinois millions of years ago. For ages 6+, reservations by 4.11. $5, Midnight Fishing Canvas Photo Art Griswold Conservation Area [9896 Bring your equipment to Rock Springsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; You supply the photo; we'll provide Meridian Rd, Blue Mound, www.

Information Shelter for a unique the supplies to create a special piece maconcountyconservation.org, chance to fish the Cattail Ponds at of art ready to display in your home. (1 423.7708] 1-4p night. We recommend lit bobbers canvas per participant). Limit 30. Call to and worms for bait. Fishing licenses register. Mt Zion District Library [115 W Benefit for Rich Richardson are required for those ages 16 and up. Main, Mt Zion, 864.3622] 10a-12p Live auction, silent auction, Reservation required by 4.10. $5, Rock entertainment for kids and adults.

Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Dulcimer Club $10 (adult), $5 (child), Free (ages <=5), Ln, www.maconcountyconservation. Rock Springs Nature Center Heartland Community Church [The org, 423.7708] 10p-12a [3939 Nearing Ln, www.

Grand Palace, 329.4012] 2-7p maconcountyconservation.org, 4.11-4.13 423.7708] 10a-12p MDSO Family Concert South Pacific Our third annual free concert and Purchase tickets in advance in the Easter Egg Hunt instrument "petting zoo" for families high school office or at the door Decatur Christian School Campus with children of primary-school age. before each show. $8 (adult), $5 [137 S Grant, Forsyth, www.fosythumc. This year's program features a host (students/senior citizen). Maroacom] 10a of familiar concert favorites. Come Forsyth High School Cafetorium early, the "petting zoo" starts at 1p!

[794.3463] 7p (Fr, Sa), 3p (Su) Paint Like Me Party Free, Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Spring Walk In Canvas Anderson Plaza] 2p 3 different classes 10a Gypsy Heart, 12p Happy Poppy, 2p Nest. $10 deposit required for booking in advance. $25 (canvas), The Perfect Pair [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] 10a-2p

April 2014 | 23

April Events Bennett's All Stars Featuring Dave Bennett (clarinet), Dave Majchzak (piano), Bob Stout (bass), Jack Tartar (drums). Food available, casual attire. $20, The Decatur Club [158 W Prairie, www. juvaejazz.com, 877.4527] 4-7p Plan B Sliderz [5995 US 36] 4p "Shine Bright" Auction & Banquet "FUN"draising event for Decatur Christian School. $25 (person), $45 (couple), $160 (table of 8), Maranatha Assembly of God [555 W Imboden Dr, www.decaturchristian.net, 877.5636] 5:30-8:30p

4.12 & 4.19 Trivia at LSB & 4.19. Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 6-10p GLAD Social Wedding/Estate planning. TBD [gladdecatur.com] 6:30p Rhonda Vincent and the Rage The Queen of Bluegrass- Winner of both the “Entertainer Of The Year” and the “Female Vocalist of the Year (Contemporary)” at the 39th annual Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America. $10-30, Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main] 7:30p

Xkrush Sliderz [5995 US 36] 9p

Mary Jo & Tombstone Bullet Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 3-6p

4.12-4.13 Decatur Train Fair Get your caboose to the Decatur Civic Center for this year’s April Train Fair, which will include swap meets, clinics, door prizes, and boxcar loads of vendors offering those hard-tofind rare model train collectables. $5 (< 12 free), Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, www. decaturciviccenter.org] 10a-4p (Sa), 11a-4p (Su)

Monday, 14 Easter Dinner Cooking School. Trilogy of Cabbage, Coca-Cola & Maple Syrup Glazed Ham, White Cheddar Mac & Cheese, Sauté of Asparagus, Braised Brandy Peaches. Pre-payment required. $25, Mari-Mann Herb Farm [1405 MariMann Ln, 429.1555] 6-8p

Sunday, 13 Blue Grass Music Jams Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 1-4p Maroa Business Expo Tupperware, Pampered Chef, Thirty One, Norwex, Longaberger and much more. Bake Sale by Fall in Love with Maroa. Maroa City Hall Gym [120 S Locust, Maroa, maroaillinois.gov] 1-5p Decatur Youth Symphony Concert Free, Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main] 2p

Family Science Sunday: Bird Sleuths!

This month, we will learn about the birds of Illinois and how to identify birds by feather color and Hipbone Sam beak size. We will also have a nature Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 9p-1a walk, playing bird bingo (weather permitting)! Free with general Rose Pruning Workshop admission, Children's Museum of Call to rsvp and for location. Please Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, cmofil. bring your garden gloves and a pruner. Home of Dan Keil [Call for Info, org, 423.5437] 2-4p 735.2981] 9-11a

Jazz Combo Free, Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 6p

Tuesday, 15 Stained Glass The Glass House [2895 N Oakland, www.glasshousestore.com, 875.7077] Tour of Schaub Floral Display Center Schaub Floral Display Center [3415 E Lost Bridge Rd, gardenclubofdecatur. com] 10a Brownie Journey: WOW! Wonders of Water On this journey, Brownies learn how to protect the waters of our Earth.

Hike to a pond and sample it for life with nets, talk to an aquatic ecologist, and complete a project that protects the watershed. Reservations by 4.14. $9 (Scout), Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 6-8p Jazz Bands Concert Free, Westminster Presbyterian Church [1360 W Main] 7:30p

Wednesday, 16 Greg Bickers Sliderz [5995 US 36] 6:30p Tudor Voices Tenebrae Service Free, St John's Episcopal Church [130 E Eldorado] 7p

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

Thursday, 17 Book Club Enchanted April by Elizabeth Von Amim. Decatur Public Library [Board Room, www.decaturlibrary.org, 424.2900] 1p Genealogy $25 (for 4 classes), Decatur Genealogical Library [1255 W South Side] 7-9p

Friday, 18 Beer Tasting $10, Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] Jesse Hite Paco's Sol Bistro [237 N Main, 330.6483] 8-11p

Saturday, 19 Easter Bunny Visit Stop in to get your Easter egg grab bag. Coziahr H-D [150 W Marion, Forsyth, www.coziahrhd.com, 877.7115] Dyno Shootout Find out if you or your buddy has more horsepower/torque. Coziahr H-D [150 W Marion, Forsyth, www. coziahrhd.com, 877.7115] 9a-3p Friends of the Zoo Breakfast with the Easter Bunny $5 (member), Scovill Zoo [71 S Country Club Rd] 9-10:30a Easter Celebration & Egg Hunt "Walk with Jesus" Family Easter Celebration and Egg Hunt. St Paul's Lutheran Church [1 Bachrach Ct, www.spldecatur.org] 10a Veggie & Herb Gardening Free, Cedar Lake Gardens & Gifts [3231 E Mound, www. cedarlakegardens.com] 10:30a First Gig Rock n' Roll Camp Fundraiser Food, raffles, auctions, activities for kids. Music by Jonny Vodka, Full Circle, Point 08, Soy City Stranglers, Gutterbound, Hybrid Vibe, The Last Stop, Noah & The Back Alley Blues,

As Thick As Thieves, White Whiskey Coalition and more. AIW Hall [2882 N Dineen] 11a-1a

Jesse Hite Crawford's Pizza & Pub [105 W Main, Maroa] 8-11p

Easter Egg Hunt Pre-K to 5th Graders. Egg Hunt at 1p followed by games, prizes, a bounce house, etc. Don't forget your Easter basket! Free, Antioch Christian Church [5409 E US Rt 36, 864.3444] 1-3p

Brushville Sliderz [5995 US 36] 9p

Eggstravaganza Bounce houses, pony rides, toucha-truck, carnival games. Tabernacle Baptist Church [650 N Wyckles, www. tbcdecatur.org, 877.5653] 1-3p Critter Egg Hunt Join Scovill Zoo and Children's Museum of Illinois for this years' family friendly egg hunt. Sing and dance prior to the egg hunt (Scovill Zoo, 1:30p), egg hunt (ages <=10, Scovill Zoo, 2p), post hunt concert featuring Mr. Dave (Children's Museum, 2.30p).

Free admission to Scovill Zoo, free concert with general admission to Children's Museum of Illinois.

[423.5437 or 421.7435 for info] Family Fun: Butterflies Flutter By Ever consider the crazy colors on the wings of a butterfly? Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll examine their designs and try to catch a glimpse of them fluttering by! For all ages. Reservations by 4.18. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www.maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 1:30p Easter Tea Four-course formal afternoon tea. $17.50, Wildflour Artisan Bakery & CafĂŠ [256 W Main, 422.3300, www.wildflourartisanbakery.com] 2p Evening Campfire Hear stories, play games, and roast marshmallows at this unique Conservation Area. Travel back to another time listening to traditional Native American lore, and enjoy the heat and light from a blazing fire. Reservation required by 4.18. $2 (person), $10 (family), Griswold Conservation Area [9896 Meridian Rd, Blue Mound, 423.7708] 5-7p

Escaping Neverland Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 9p-1a Third Shift Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 10p-1a

Tuesday, 22 Non-fiction Book Club Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow.

Decatur Public Library [Board Room, www.decaturlibrary.org, 424.2900] 1p 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 Earth Day Event Children 4 years and up are invited to attend our Earth Day event. We will enjoy stories and crafts that celebrate our Earth and learn how we can help our environment. Mt Zion District Library [115 W Main, Mt Zion, www. mtzion.lib.il.us, 864.3622] 6-7p T.W. Samuels Lecture Featuring American engineer and former NASA astronaut Fred Haise presenting "Failure is not an Option."

Although best known as a crew member on the ill-fated Apollo 13 lunar mission, Haise began his 20year NASA career as an aeronautical research pilot, serving on the backup crew for the Apollo 8, 11 and 16 missions.. Free, Kirkland Fine Arts Center [Millikin University] 7:30p

April 2014 | 25

April Events

4.22-4.23 S for Spring Spring is in the air! Plants are budding and animals are being born! Join us on a springtime adventure to discover the growing world around us. Adult companion required. $10, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www.maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 9:30-10:30a (Tu, Ages 1-5), 1-2p (We, Ages 3-5) Wednesday, 23 MDSO Lullaby Concert Music, stories and fun for families with very small children. Wear your PJ's!

Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin] 6:45p Live Karaoke Band Sliderz [5995 US 36] 9p

Thursday, 24 Grow the "Scarborough Herbs" Learn about the folklore of parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme–basil, too.

Plant 5 herbs in a planter box for you to take home while learning about their care and use, complete with recipes. Space limited. Call to reserve your spot. $20, Mari-Mann Herb Farm [1405 Mari-Mann Ln, 429.1555] 6-8p 4.24-4.27 AKC Dog Show Progress City [One College Park] Friday, 25 Paint Like Me Party - Resurrection Create an abstract, 3-d canvas featuring a rugged cross and meaningful quotation of your choice. $25 deposit required. $50, The Perfect Pair [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] 6:30-8:30p

Seeing Eye Photography Contest Open to the public. For complete rules and entry form go to website.

Richland Community College [One College Park, www.richland.edu] 5-8p Adam Craig Band Sliderz [5995 US 36] 9p LHP Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 9p-12a Night Hike Venture into the darkness at this remote Conservation Area.

Experiment with your five senses and see how they can play tricks with your mind. These hikes are highly recommended for all outdoor adventurers. For all ages. Reservations by 4.24. $3 (person), $10 (family), Friends Creek Conservation Area [13734 Friends Creek Park Rd, Cisco, www.maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 9-11p

4.25-4.26 Comedy Hour Dwight York with Gerrit Elzinga. $1012, Main Hangar [910 S Airport Rd, mainhangarrestaurant.net, 421.7452] 8:30p Book & Bake Sale Community rummage sales, bake sale, book sale, and more. Barclay Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, barclay.lib.il.us, 672.3621] 9a-5p(Fr), 9a-12p (Sa)

Saturday, 26 Friends of Argenta Breakfast Old Grade School [275 N Kenwood, Argenta] 8-10a

Lego Club Play and learn with LEGOs. For boys and girls of all ages. Includes snack, story and creative play. Blue Mound Library [213 N St Marie, 692.2774, www.bluemoundlibrary.lib.il.us] 9:30-11a Dulcimer Club Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 10a-12p Festival of Spring Enjoy activities for the whole family, including music, wagon rides, a canoe rodeo, bird shows, a bee keeper, food, hikes, a vintage baseball game, and much more! Free (some events like canoe rodeo/face painting will have a small fee), Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 10a-4p Paint Like Me Party Kids Canvas "Happy Birdie" Kids will create a bright, colorful bird on a wire silhouette painting.

Children <=6 must be accompanied by an adult. $10 deposit required. $25, The Perfect Pair [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] 10a-12p Fairy Gardens Free, Cedar Lake Gardens & Gifts [3231 E Mound, www.cedarlakegardens. com] 10:30a World Penguin Day & Earth Day During the amazing Earth Day Celebration, the zoo’s new Humboldt penguins will be featured with special keeper chats, and you’ll discover conservation ideas for your own backyard. General Admission, Scovill Zoo [71 S Country Club Rd, www. decatur-parks.org, 421.7435] 12-4p

Fletcher Park Kids Club Teddy Bears on Parade. Featuring Doodles the Dragon, Granny Giggles, and The Gary Strong Marionette Show. Concessions, live entertainment, old time movies, classic cartoons, and prizes. $4 (adult), $1 (child), Fletcher Park [Recreation Center, Mt Zion, mtzion.com, 864.5424] 2-3:30p Primrose Open House Cruise ship theme. Entertainment, food, and drinks! Open to the public.

Primrose Retirement [872.1800] 2-4p Maroa-Forsyth Jazz CafĂŠ Raffle and Fundraiser Music by students and special guests. Raffles, prizes, pizza, desserts, beverages. Must be present to win raffle items. Fun for all ages. Free Admission, Maroa-Forsyth High School [610 W Washington, Maroa, 794.3463] 2-5p

works by the world's leading composers. Free, Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main] 7:30p

MU String Ensemble Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin] 2p

Dave Hamilton of 56 Hope Road with Fletcher Rockwell Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 8p-12a

Oglesby Mansion Open House The restored home of Illinois Governor Richard J. Oglesby. Encounter the lives of its family members, discover their late nineteenth-century lifestyle, and soak up its exquisite architecture. $2, Oglesby Mansion [421 W William, www.oglesbymansion.org] 2-4p

Riverbottom Nightmare Band Sliderz [5995 US 36] 9p

4.26-4.27 Mineral, Gem & Jewelry Show 2014 Minerals, jewelry, beads, meteorites, gemstones, books, wire wrapping, lampwork, fused glass, carvings, tools, fossils, fluorescent specimens, demos, door prizes, club exhibits, silent auction, kids corner, and fossil dig. $5 (adult), $3 (Seniors), Free (Ages <=15), Macon County Fairgrounds [3700 Westlawn, cigmc.earthinsynch.com, 309.830.6516] 9a-6p(Sa), 10a-4p(Su)

Bellies for Bellies Shopping (6p), Showcase (7p). $7-10, Richland Community College [One College Park, www. eesabellabellydance.com, 917.2359] 6p

Kite Day Dozens of kites will paint the sky for this annual spring tradition, sponsored by the Illinois Association of Park Districts and celebrated by park districts statewide. Bring your kite and enjoy professional flying demonstrations. Sinawik Park [East Fulton & 32nd St, www.decatur-parks. org, 429.7750] 11a-4p

Decatur Underground Theatre Trivia Night Prizes, raffle, 50/50. $10 (person), Doherty's Pub & Pins [242 E William, 791.1966] 7p

Sunday, 27 New Product Day Red Tail Run Golf Course [520 W Grove, www.decatur-parks.org, 422.2211] 9a-3p

Kidd Kadillac Sliderz [5995 US 36] 4p

Spring Woodland Wildflower Hike Springtime flowers abound under the woodland canopy. See the spring beauties, bluebells, violets, jack-inthe-pulpit, Dutchmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s breeches, and others sprouting up beneath our trees! For all ages. Reservations by 4.25. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 2p Noah & The Back Alley Blues Pop's Place [4335 W Main] 3-6p Spring Chorale Concert Free, First Christian Church [3350 N MacArthur Rd] 4p & 6p

4.28-5.9 Annual Student Show Perkinson Gallery [Millikin University, www.millikin.edu] 12-5p (Mo-Fr)

Tuesday, 29 How Does Your Garden Grow?

Learn about the many herbs and everlastings and their uses. You will also take a walk through the gardens, 50th Anniversary Celebration weather permitting. Space limited.

Haunted History Tour Door prizes. Connect with friends and Call to reserve your spot. Free, MariFrom lost burial grounds to haunted theaters, the Haunted Decatur Tour is make new ones. Browse through the Mann Herb Farm [1405 Mari-Mann Ln, 429.1555] 6-8p much more than just a run-of-the-mill library. Refreshments will be served.

Decatur Genealogical Library [1255 W ghost tour! $30, Departs from The Wednesday, 30 South Side] 1-4p Avon [426 N Water, haunteddecatur.

Culinary Arts Dinner com] 7p 22nd Annual Blessing of the Bikes Seating from 6-6:30p. $15, Richland All makes and models welcome (2, 4, Community College [Shilling Center, Percussion Masterworks Concert 8, 16 wheels)! Start your riding season 875.7200 x740] 6p Percussion Ensemble Masterworks showcases the depth and breadth of off right! Get here early (open at 11a) for a good spot or to just hang out. contemporary percussion chamber Coziahr H-D [150 W Marion, Forsyth, music through a program featuring www.coziahrhd.com, 877.7115] 2-4p

April 2014 | 27

28 | April 2014

Mt. Zion’s New Age Art Center

by Beth DeBouck | photos by Sarah Jane Call me sentimental, but there’s something wonderfully symbolic about a group of local artisans breathing life into an abandoned 18,000-sq.-ft. building from the 1930s that used to be a special institution of learning to many people in Mt. Zion.

From kindergarten to fourth grade, I attended Mt. Zion Grade School (when it was originally located on South Henderson), and it’s gratifying to see that the building is once again being used to facilitate learning and creativity.

Heroic Age Studios Owner Eric Hector purchased the old Mt. Zion Grade School about a year and a half ago and takes up the bulk of the lower floor with his studio, which provides video production, illustrations, photography, design and computer graphics to projects like comic books, movies and TV commercials. His space will encompass offices; a makeup

and green room; staging area; work shop; lighting and camera storage; recording studio with ADR Booth; conference room; and a large sound stage with full-grid lighting and a 20’ x 30’ green screen that Eric is planning on renting out to movie production companies from Los Angeles to New York. (He’s got the connections, considering he’s worked with clients like DC Comics, Marvel Entertainment, Disney and National Geographic.) continued ON page 30

continued FROM PAGE 29

the wood flooring, plaques for room numbers and wooden hand railings. Eric recently signed contracts with four other businesses: Paint Junkies, L and L Studio, Center Earth Studio and Sincerely Penguin Studio, and all should be moved in by summer’s end.

Eric has many other great ideas for the property: art galleries, individual artist studios, a private theatre room with RED 4K laser projector and 2 acres of land that can be used to display sculptures or even play host to outdoor shows and festivals. Several of the facilities the art center offers will be available to rent, and a few studio spaces are left for artists interested in joining the HAAC Grand Entry Hall Heroic Age community. To rent a space, schedule a tour or learn more about the Though he’s been asked to move his studio Heroic Age Art Center, contact Eric Hector to bigger cities, Eric decided to stay local, in at 972-7867 or visit HAArtCenter.com. part because of the many connections he’s made with creative people right here in Central Illinois. Two of them are owners of Businesses in Heroic Age Art Center: businesses currently open in the art center: Laura Webb Photography - Laura Webb Jennifer Fisher of Next of Kiln and Laura 855-7970 (Now open) Webb of Laura Webb Photography.

Next of Kiln - Jennifer Fisher - 855-1069 Next of Kiln moved into one of the former (Now open) classrooms on the upper floor in January.

Paint Junkies - Beki VanMeter - 520-3841 If you haven’t already visited, Next of Kiln (Opening at the center in May) is an art studio that is open to the public and allows you to paint a variety of pottery L and L Studio - Laura and Lindsey Harrison pieces. New owner Jennifer also offers - 201-7141 (Opening at the center in May) classes in fused glass and clay pottery Center Earth Studio - Terry Beer - 520creation. She says she likes the artsy, eclectic 7582 (Opening at the center in June) feel of sharing a space with other artists. For her, it’s also nostalgic because it’s where she Sincerely Pigeon Studio - Laramie Street - 454-9232 (Opening at the center in July) attended grade school.

Laura Webb Photography, also located on Brook Paslay - Creative Marketing the upper floor and adjacent to Next of Kiln, Branding Design - 791-2454 (Opening TBD) offers something owner Laura didn’t have Heroic Age Studios - Eric Hector - 972when doing photography out of her home 7867 (Partially open at the center, Grand – a whole new studio for shoots, which can Opening to be determined) offer her clients many more options.

Much of the art center is still under construction, but the space maintains Get There: Heroic Age Art Center several of the original structural elements. 135 South Henderson, Mt. Zion Many original details also remain, including HAArtCenter.com 30 | April 2014

April 2014 | 31

A

p

r

LEMON DROP MARTINI

Throughout the month of April

i

l

Hurricane Ruth CD Release Party Sunday, 4/6, 3-6p

$5

Hip Bone Sam

Saturday, 4/12, 9p-1a

Mary Jo & Tombstone Bullet Sunday, 4/13, 3-6p

Escaping Neverland

Saturday, 4/19, 9p-1a

Noah & The Back Alley Blues Sunday, 4/27, 3-6p

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

CHILL ON THE HILL Summer 2014 Lineup

A venue of family fun and music, beginning on Thursday, June 5th – July 31st at Fletcher Park’s outdoor amphitheater.

Sav Mor Pharmacy kick–off to Chill on the Hill Thursday, June 5th

Kentucky Head Hunters June 12th: June 19th: July 10th: July 17th: July 24th: July 31st:

The Veggies Jack Freeze Rosetta Stone Kilborn Alley Blues Plan B & Slant Six Feudin Hillbillys

Thursdays are the new Fridays in Mt. Zion!

Fletcher Park, Mt. Zion, IL • 217-864-5424 32 | April 2014

Direct Connection to

Art & Entrepreneurship

by Heather Meadows

Students are running art, right here in Decatur! The innovative program and retail art gallery Blue Connection debuted in 2003 and lets students become entrepreneurs while showcasing the skills and talents that carry them into real-life careers and business ventures. Director Julienne Shields took over in August and has seen the art gallery thrive as it gives students the opportunity to develop, launch and grow businesses.

Here’s how the program works: Millikin University students enroll in The Art of Entrepreneurship then embark on their own micro-venture.

What they launch is solely up to them, and they can work alone or collaborate. This semester, 17 students enrolled, with 12 businesses started. They must pitch their idea, get it funded, develop marketing plans and know their customer base. After paying off any loans, they can keep their profit. Once they’ve successfully completed the class, they’re prepared to begin at Blue Connection.

Three teams run the gallery: management, marketing and finance. Throughout the course of the semester, students join forces to plan events; look at product lines; work with Millikin faculty, students or alumni artists; acquire inventory; develop marketing strategies; and in the end, discover if a profit was made. They’re actually running a business, and Decatur benefits from their efforts through cultural events and eclectic boutique shopping.

Basia Brown, a senior from Chicago, is part of the management group this semester. Until now, she’s been an artist and never known the business aspect of art. Blue Connection has let her become more versatile and effectively communicate with both artists and business owners. “I’ve learned to communicate with my peers, artists and customers,” she says. “In the art industry you have

to know what people are looking for... If you know what your viewers want, then you’ll know what kind of artists to seek for your gallery.”

At Blue Connection, you’ll see a wide array of art like oil and acrylic paintings, photography, ceramics, pottery, jewelry, mixed media pieces, original recycled pieces and unique greeting cards made at the downtown Carriage House.

Regular events also draw people in. On April 4, Blue Connection will be hosting F-Stop, a photography show, and on May 2, a graphic poster event will showcase 15 graphic design art students.

When hosting these events, students must decide what to sell and how to market it. Julienne says while sometimes there is failure involved, students always learn from it.

“In these student-run ventures, we aren’t teaching the students how to walk through something step by step or how to read a manual. We are teaching them how to cross over into how they can create their own manual,” she says. “How can they be owners and not employees? Sometimes there is no manual. You just have to get out there and put your heart and soul into it.”

Get There: Blue Connection Madden Arts Center 117 N. Water St., Decatur www.millikin.edu/blueconnection Heather Meadows is s freelance writer.

April 2014 | 33

SATURDAY, APRIL 12, 2014

Kirkland Fine Arts Center

Rhonda Vincent & The Rage tkts

Adult $20-$30 路 Child $10-$15 217.424.6318

ALSO UPCOMING: Night Fever Saturday, May 10 - 7:30 p.m.

www.kirklandfinearts.com 34 | April 2014

SPOT THE

DIFFERENCES

For a chance to win 2 tickets to:

corks & Forks 2014

Thursday, May 1, 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. at the Decatur Conference Center & Hotel. $100 value. www.decaturarts.org | 217-423-3189

original

2 WAYS TO WIN:

1. Find all 6 differences and earn 2 entries! Send an email by April 15 to contests@thrivedecatur.com that includes your name and the 6 differences. 2. Couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find all the differences?

Visit THRIVE Decatur on Facebook on April 15 to see the password. Email us the password along with your name to earn 1 entry. Winners will be drawn on or around April 16, notified by email, and published in the May issue. One entry per email address.