May 2014 Thrive Entertainment Guide

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE CHALLENGE: Sherwin Williams

FUN FORE ALL Overlook Adventure Mini Golf

Featuring: The Decatur area’s handiest Events Calendar

FREE

May2014

Decatur Gamers Build Skills & Friendships Pickleball is kind of a big dill in Decatur SPOTLIGHT// Archer's Alley Aims for Family Fun

ART SPEAK// We Are Merely Players?

FOOD DUDE// Get Your Grill On at Sports Zone

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 T. F. Dude Troy Hayes Jerry Johnson Kim Mangan Angela Parson Myers 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!

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Every effort has been made to present all information accurately; however, no liability is accepted for any inclusions or omissions from the publication.

02 | May 2014

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 • 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 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 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 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' 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 #60 | May 2014 www.thrivedecatur.com

COVER: Overlook Adventure Mini Golf planning with CherryBerry photo

by Sarah Jane

BEHIND THE THRIVE

April Out & About

SPOTLIGHT: Archer's Alley

Party Crashers' Crash of the Month

ART SPEAK: We Are Merely Players?

Publisher's Pick of the Month

FOOD DUDE: Sports Zone Overlook Adventure Mini Golf May Events Calendar Decatur Gamers In a Pickle

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 May 2014 | 03

BEHIND THE

CONGRATS TO OUR April WINNER:

Alex Arcos

April Answers:

1. Bottle on chair disappeared 2. Buttons on coat disappeared 3. Red/orange label turned yellow 4. Goatee became mustache 5. Bracelet missing 6. Pencils on table gone

Play the May Spot the Difference Challenge on p.35 04 | May 2014

THRIVE

It’s Game On in Decatur this month and every month!

The long-awaited mini golf complex opens, with animal fun for everyone, plus delicious CherryBerry frozen yogurt to get your sweet on, too!

In addition to the traditional sports you’ll find thriving all year long, Pickleball is piquing interest all over Decatur. Try your hand at this spiffy tennis-badminton hybrid, and see what you’re made of!

If you’re no less competitive but looking for a slower pace, get with the Decatur Gamers. Their mental challenges aren’t for the fainthearted, and they’ve got great games for all!

Sports aficionados of all kinds can fill their bellies and feed their fandoms at the Sports Zone, home of the largest screen in Decatur and one of the best burgers, too!

Whether you’ve got game or are the world’s best armchair quarterback, Decatur’s got your bag—game on!

Out & About

A look back at last month’s happenings

DPS Film Contest The DPS Film Festival was held April 10 in the newly renovated Eisenhower High School auditorium. Bright lights and red carpet greeted guests as they viewed the top 12 entrants competing for a $2500 scholarship.

Mystery In The Trees Rock Springs Conservation Area is home to many natural wonders, but a man-made wonder popped up overnight last month in the evergreen forest.

An unknown local team built a great shelter out of refuse from our treacherous winter.

May 2014 | 05

Out & About

A look back at last month’s happenings

MU Heart Walk

On April 1 Millikin University's 15th President, Dr. Patrick White, led a group of more than 100 on a walk through campus to raise awareness for America Heart Association initiatives. All the heart walkers were invited to stay afterward for a heart healthy lunch in Millikin's cafeteria.

Dennis Millikin Garden Students from Millikin and Dennis Lab School along with community volunteers pitched in to rake leaves on April 6 to get the Dennis Millikin Garden ready for spring plantings. Over 80 bags of leaves and yard debris were collected and bagged.

Spring Stock 2014

Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band returned to Decatur for the Decatur Civic Center's first annual Spring Stock music festival on April 4. Chicago Farmer and Harpeth Rising opened for RPBDB, an American country blues band from Brown County, Indiana.

06 | May 2014

Animals at A-O Cherry Berry Bonanza The Illinois Raptor Center, Scovill Zoo and Homeward Bound Pet Shelter visited Argenta-Oreana Grade School April 10. Birds, reptiles and canines entertained guests while students held a pet supply collection for the shelter.

Paint Like Me The Perfect Pair hosted a Spring Walk-in featuring three canvas options on April 12.

Look for more class options or reserve your own private party at paintlikemeparty.com.

Central Park Art

Signs of spring can be found in Central Park as the red picnic tables and park benches return. Decatur Area Arts Council's Tree Hugger public art project also adds a bit of color to the landscape.

Family Skate

George's Skate Center hosts a family night on Mondays from 6-8p. See talent of all ranges. Skates can be purchased or rented.

Catch

PENGUIN FEVER at Scovill Zoo!

www.scovillzoo.com May 2014 | 07

08

SPOTLIGHT

by Joli A. Hohenstein Archer's Alley photos: Sarah Jane

Archer’s Alley Aims for Family Fun Avid hunter and family man Nathan Frazier constantly has new options for family fun on his radar, and when friends kept asking for recommendations for the same thing—a safe, entertaining option for hunters—he knew his idea was on target.

Archer’s Alley was born of a drought-forced slow day in the lawn business, as he surveyed the vast home of Pathway Lawn Grooming speculatively thinking, “This would be a good place for a range.”

Now it’s that much and more, featuring not just a 30-yard range but a hub for bow hunters of all ages and stages to sharpen their skills.

“When you already have a bow, you just need a place to shoot,” says Nathan. So he set about providing economical options for families and friends to have fun together.

Coming off a successful first season capped by a Customer Appreciation Event in early April, Archer’s Alley is gearing up for some summer fun. New leagues start in May and will likely run bimonthly throughout the summer with various events in the intervening months. Hourly time on the range is also available, of course, for a truly nominal fee.

Leagues feature options for all skill and age levels.

The Youth League welcomes those 15 and under.

There’s a Crossbow League, a Women’s League and a Traditional League for, well, the traditionalists.

Men’s leagues also offer sections for hunting, using the same gear you would in the woods, and Open, with fancier rigs typically used for target shooting.

Cost is $55 for a four-week league like those in May

and July. You’ll shoot 20 yards on five spot paper targets.

Looking to up your game? Informal pointers from the experts are always available, and they’re also in the process of getting certified through a 4H program, so look for formal lessons coming soon.

If your equipment needs tweaking, a full service repair shop on site has you covered. They’ve got supplies for five major lines (Behr, Winchester, Athens, Stevens and Parker crossbows), and they repair any type of bow or tune them to shoot more accurately.

Archery’s longer season is what originally appealed to him, says Nathan, and the shop aims to extend the fun year round. Leagues and events ramp up during the peak season winter months, but there’s something for everyone all year. “People want Gander Mountain and Scheels, and we’re just bringing them a small part of what people want to have here in Decatur.”

They want fun; they want family; they want the outdoors—and Archer’s Alley hits the target. “It’s great family time,” says Nathan, and at $5 an hour person, “an inexpensive way to spend quality time with the kids.”

Get There: Archer’s Alley 3113 N. 22nd St., Decatur 853-5961, www.archersalley.com Summer Hours: 10 am-8 pm Monday-Saturday Winter Hours: 9 am-9 pm 7 days a week

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

Get more Joli at jolihohenstein.com.

08 | May 2014

r u t a DecRASHERS C PARTY

CRASH of the Month

Saturday, May 24th

Dash to the Bash 5k/10k 10K @ 9am, 5K @ 9:15am Races start & stop at Sliderz

After party with live music, food and drinks. $35 includes entry to the race, t-shirt, beer glass, a beer ticket and entry to the after party.

-5k/10k -live music

-food & beer -'nough said

www.juniorwelfare.com to register or for more information facebook.com/groups/ DecaturPartyCrashers jccaulkins@aol.com

May 2014 | 09

10

ART SPEAK

by Jerry Johnson

We Are Merely Players?

Many games require a team to play them. It’s often more satisfying to play on a team than as a solo competitor because you get to be part of a group of people who are just as focused and driven as you are. Some of them are more experienced or skilled, and you learn from them. Others are not so much, and you get to share what you’ve learned with them. You each take a role on the team that’s suited to your strengths. You support one another and complement one another. You are part of a greater whole.

These same ideas apply to the arts. For example, I often use football to describe theatre. There are 11 players on the field at any time. Even though not everybody gets to handle the ball (be the “star”), every position is important to the team. If the guard and tackle don’t understand their roles and give their all, then even the “stars,” the quarterback and wide receiver, can’t do their job. Every player has to know his assignment and execute it properly for the team to be successful.

that the goals of the team are more important than any single person.

Just as with most “games,” the arts require that you master the fundamentals before you can successfully move to the next level. You may even spend a little time on the bench, as the understudy for the lead actor or as the third chair trumpet. That’s okay. Think of it as a chance to learn and grow without dealing with the pressure of being expected to be the best. Because you’re not in the spotlight, you’re safe to watch and listen, to the coach, director or the other players. You’ll learn about how your role fits into the bigger team picture. If you decide you’d like a different role, you’ll have to invest the time to learn and practice.

Along the way, you’ll learn about discipline and teamwork and slowly build your confidence.

Once that happens, who knows what you’ll be capable of!

The arts challenge you mentally and physically as much as any game or sport. To paraphrase Theatre is just one example of an arts “team sport.” Shakespeare, “All the world’s a game. And all the You’ve probably been a member of an arts team men and women merely players.” You can become and never thought about it: an orchestra, a band, more than a “mere” player by finding an arts activity a dance troupe or a theatre cast. Theatre actors that suits you—paint, sing or act. The qualities you are even called players. The players have to go gain from your arts experiences, like discipline, through tryouts and are assigned roles based on independence and leadership, will stay with you their experience and skills. Of course, a few players for the rest of your life. Because life is a team sport, attract the most attention, the “stars,” but through these qualities and skills will make you a great fit training and practice everyone involved learns on any team that is lucky enough to have you.

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

10 | May 2014

Publisher's

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

Avery's Strawberry-Orange

Zombie Brain Juice

$1.99 ea.

Jeffrey's Meat Market

photo: Kat Smalley

135 S. Oakland St., Decatur, 217.791.5498

Next time you grill out be sure to stop

by Jeffrey's Meat Market to grab your fresh cuts and check out the selection of old-fashioned sodas. I enjoyed an Avery's Totally Gross Soda (Strawberry-Orange Zombie Brain Juice) on a recent road trip and although there are many other brands, I've committed to working through the SODAisgusting series including "Toxic Slime," "Dog Drool Soda," "Bug Barf," "Kitty Piddle," and "Monster Mucus". Cheers!

May 2014 | 11

12

THE FOOD DUDE

by T. F. DUDE

Get Your Grill On at Sports Zone Because I hadn’t really eaten much all day (I can’t eat 24/7, now can I? Oh how I wish I could, though!), I visited the Sports Zone Bar & Grill, located in the Decatur Conference Center & Hotel and one of two dining options at the hotel (and clearly the most informal). It was a little after 4 pm, which is about when they open during the weekdays, so I had my choice of seating at the bar. I already knew I was in the mood for a nice meaty burger.

this was still one of the best burgers I’ve had in the area. It was thick, and it was juicy, and it was flavorful. The combination of the sautéed onion and mushrooms with the bleu cheese made it difficult for me to keep up a conversation with the very friendly bartender, Luke. The bun had even been lightly toasted. (That can make such a difference!) Also, the great thing about this place was that only a few minutes after I’d ordered, the bar started filling up with friendly I’m gonna be honest with you and tell you that folk who aren’t afraid to chat with strangers over I am particular about my burgers. I prefer them a glass of beer. Some are locals; some are from on the side of practically still mooing (sorry, out of town, but everybody has a story to share. vegetarians!). I need them to be juicy, thick, and The Sports Zone boasts 27 televisions, including full of flavor. the largest screen in Decatur. Great for sports, After perusing their burger options, I had to no doubt! But I wouldn’t mind gatherin’ a group decide if I wanted the Classic Steakhouse of pals together to watch shows like The Walking Burger ($8.49, plus additional costs for onions, Dead on it, either! If you want to know about mushrooms, bacon or bleu cheese) or if I wanted the French fries, they were of the steak variety – it with all those add-ons already included, crispy, thick, and well-salted. It’s well worth your minus the bleu cheese. Such an option comes time to drive over to the far West End of Decatur in the form of The Works burger, which for $9.25 for a good meal, a beer, a little sports and some gives you a half pound of hand-formed fresh very friendly people – staff included! angus beef char-grilled and topped with bacon, sautéed onions, mushrooms and cheddar and pepper jack cheeses. I exchanged the cheddar and pepper jack for bleu cheese (what can I say, I’m classy like that). All burgers are served with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle and your choice of fresh cooked chips, French fries or sweet potato fries.

Just to warn you, if you like your burgers rare, make sure you tell them that ahead of time because otherwise you’ll end up with something closer to medium-well or even well done. Mine was only slightly pink in the center, which my heart probably thanked me for, but

Get There: Sports Zone 4191 US 36, Decatur 422-8810 www.hoteldecatur.com/c/dining/sports-zone/ Monday-Friday, 4 pm-1 am Saturday, 11 am-1 am Sunday, 11 am-Midnight

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

12 | May 2014

May 2014 | 13

FUN F ORE A LL Wri t te

14 | May 2014

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Overlook Adventure Mini Golf We always knew Decatur’s got game, but now animals and families alike are getting in on the fun! The crazy Scovill Zoo camels, pandas, penguins and more are on the loose at Overlook Adventure Mini Golf, projected to open in late May (if mischief and Mother Nature don’t throw down more delays) in Nelson Park.

“The concept is that the animals at the zoo got bored, hijacked a golf cart, drove around the lake and crashed into a mini golf course,” says Becky Newton, Director of Recreation and Facilities for the Decatur Park District, which is building the 36-hole course and complex.

Hilarity ensues from the first hole to the last, as zebras and camels pretend they’re a tree, red pandas cause trouble with a fire hose, and all the animals—some of them 15 feet tall!—get in on the action.

The Zookeeper is on their trail, watching their antics from his perch atop the clubhouse, which also makes it easy for visitors to find the course from Route 36.

When it’s complete, the complex will be unlike anything in downstate Illinois, rivaling those in major metro areas.

“It was designed by the company that concepted the popular Great Wolf Lodge courses,” says Becky, “so this is a mini golf course like you’d see in destinations like the Dells and places like that.”

Adding to the fun: The animals are fully integrated into the course…they aren’t just watching; they’re messing with your game. So you’re putting over the peacock’s back and tail and under a fire hose the red pandas are holding. Water features abound, too, so this is no walk the park (pun intended).

continued on page 16

FUN FORE ALL continued from page 15 The Park District has focused on giving Decatur what people want in entertainment, building not a stand-alone mini golf course but an entertainment complex with options for all.

Becky had the opportunity to talk with a local student advisory group, and one of their main requests was frozen yogurt on site. A natural, because local yogurt sensation CherryBerry is in the complex, too, set to open its second location there. They’ll have their famed self-serve yogurt bar with its rotating selection of 50 yogurts and 50 toppings plus will offer packages for birthday parties and other events.

Also joining the menu of fun: Ted’s Taters, offering a one-of-a-kind selection of snacks and treats like French fries, potatoes and local favorite Heinkel’s hot

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16 | May 2014

dogs. Run by the CherryBerry owners and named after their dog Ted, it will be the perfect place to paws and rest for mini golfers as well as visitors to the nearby dog park.

Local manufacturer GSI has donated two grain bins, and one will be retrofitted as a party pavilion (the other will be the maintenance building). For birthdays, corporate parties, church outings, family nights or date nights, there will be an option for all, says Becky. (Call for prices.)

Specials include a Loyalty Card that gets your 13th round free, and events are planned throughout the summer.

Thursdays will be two-for-one special day, and Sundays are family day, with four golfers playing for just $20. Special Teen Nights will be June 6 and August 8, giving students in grades 6 to 12 the chance to gather for fun and friendship

for just $5. Dads golf free with a paid child on Father’s Day; Fourth of July sparks a two-for-one special, and on Grandparents Day, grandparents golf free with a paid child.

It’s all part of a larger vision for rejuvenating Nelson Park, with the encompassing Overlook Adventure Park.

“Eventually there will be a water park just down Route 36, a high ropes course, zip lines and an amphitheater,” says Becky.

Timing is all funding dependent, but for organizers (and Decaturites too!), the sooner the better!

For date night, family night or any night, there’s fun FORE all right here!

Get There:

Overlook Adventure Mini Golf 2501 E. Nelson Park Rd., Decatur Spring Hours: Mon-Thurs 4-8 pm, Fri 4-10 pm, Sat 10 am-10 pm, Sun Noon-10 pm Summer Hours: Mon-Sat 10 am-10 pm, Sun Noon-10 pm Rates: Age 13 and older $6.50, Age 4-12 $5.50, 3 and under free. Second game $4.50 429-7750 | www.decatur-parks.org Find them on Facebook at the Lakeshore Landing page

UPCOMING EVENTS June 6 Teen Night $5 for grades 6-12

June 15 Dads golf free with a paid child

May 2014 | 17

May Events

EVERY DAY Artist Alan Perry Moments in the lives of wildlife and nature have been colorfully captured on film. Rock Springs Nature Center [North Gallery, 3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708] 8a-5p (Mo-Fr), 8:30a-4:30p (Sa), 1-4p (Su) Artist David Staff Experience the artistry of David Staff’s captivating photography in the natural world displaying flowers, birds, and mammals. Rock Springs Nature Center [South Gallery, 3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708] 8a-5p (Mo-Fr), 8:30a-4:30p (Sa), 1-4p (Su)

EVERY MONDAY Preschool Activity - Exploring Patterns (thru 5.19) Children aged 18 months – 4 years 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

EVERY TUESDAY Ladies Only Golf Clinic (thru 5.20) Whether you've never stepped on a course or just want to improve your game, this clinic is designed for ladies of all skill levels (ages 16+). $30-35, Red Tail Golf Club [520 W Grove Rd, 422.2211, www.decatur-parks.org] 6-7:30p

Let's Get Fit! (thru 6.23) Take the first step to fitness. Train for the 3rd annual Come Together Let’s Walk! Fairview Park [Pavilion] Preactivities 5:30p, Walk/Run 5:45p

Men's Tennis Doubles Challenge Court (thru 7.22) Play organized doubles each week. 3.0 rated players and above will compete against players of their same level.

Fairview Park [Tennis Complex] 6-8p

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

Art Exhibit Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe [256 W com] 6p Main, wildflourartisanbakery.com] Lady Planeswalker Society (LPS) LPS is an unofficial play group seeking Art Exhibit to successfully create a welcoming, Gallery 510 [160 E Main, Suite 100, friendly environment for women 422.1509, gallery510.org] to learn how to play Magic the Gathering. This does not mean the Art Exhibit group is exclusively women, either.

Decatur Airport [910 Airport Rd] The primary goal is to teach people who are not comfortable enough Art Exhibit with the tournament scene how to "Art with a Purpose," Decatur Public play. Free, Board Knight [228 W Main, Library [130 N Franklin, www. boardknight.com] 6p decaturlibrary.org, 424.2900] Karaoke Josh in a Bucket (Su), 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). Cafe Brio [2880 N Oakland, 875.2746] 9p-2a

Swing Night Swing-out (aka dance) to some vintage big band and Dixieland jazz.

No partner, experience or special shoes required. NWRAPS Clubhouse [234 S College St, 630.999.8231, soycity.org] Free beginner lesson 7-8p, free social dancing 8-11p 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), 8-9p (Dance)

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 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 Casual Commander at Board Knight Join us for a very casual night of Commander! Free, Board Knight [228 W Main, boardknight.com] 6p Family Golf Night (thru 5.21) Just for parents, grandparents and their children and grandchildren, low-key instructional environment for all skill levels. $10 (family), Hickory Point Golf Course driving range [727 Weaver Rd, 421.7444, www.decaturparks.org] 6-7p

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

Jazz Music Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 3:30-5:30p Saturday Night EDH! The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 6p

Open Board Gaming Play your favorite tabletop game, or Racing (thru 9.27) try a new one! Free, Board Knight [228 Cinco de Mayo Fiesta Night (5.3), W Main, boardknight.com] 6p Mother Dean plus Crazy Chicks in cars (5.10), POWRI midgets and Stevie Ray Kelton mini-sprints (5.17), Bob Brady Dodge Sliderz [5995 US 36] 9p-1:30a Raminator (5.24), Armed Forces Night (5.31). Macon Speedway [205 N Wiles Karaoke St, Macon, 764.3000 ,www.facebook.

With Troy Hayes. Pop's Place [4335 W com/maconracing] Gates open 5p, Main] 9p-1a Racing 7p 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 [228 W Main, boardknight.com] 6:30p

EVERY THURSDAY Write Stuff Writers' Group Support, encouragement, and critiques for writers in all stages of Friday Night Magic development. Wildflour Artisan Bakery Standard and constructed formats & Cafe [256 W Main] 3:30p available. Prize payout up to 3 packs of boosters per participate, $12 value.

Family Fun Night $5,The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Our demo section is full of tons of fun Mt Zion, 864.1851] 6:30p games free for use. The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY 3-10p Wine Tastings The Decanter Fine Wines [215 N Main D&D St, 422.9463] 4-7p (Fr), 1-6p (Sa) Dungeons & Dragons table game. The EVERY SATURDAY Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Kaijudo Tournament Zion, 864.1851] 5p Card game based on the famous cartoon. Plays similar to Magic the Adult Golf Clinic (5.8-5.22) Gathering but great for kids 8+. $10 Designed for new golfers, those (includes lunch), The Hidden Lair [320 seeking a refresher on the basics, and those who want to return to the N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 11a game after being away for a while!

Family Game Day Ages 16+, $30-35, Red Tail Golf Club Stop in and learn how to play games [520 W Grove Rd, 422.2211, www. perfect for the family, like Rampage, decatur-parks.org] 6-7:30p Trains, Spot it, & Hive! Free, Board Knight [228 W Main, boardknight.

Bike Nite Pour House (5.1), Just One More (5.8), com] 12-6p Prairieland ABATE (5.15), Whit's End (5.22), Oakland Street Party (5.29). 6-8p Pathfinders Society The Hidden Lair [320 N St Hwy 121, Mt Zion, 864.1851] 2p

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

Thursday, 1 Vino Inspired People Corks & Forks Taste and learn about exclusive premium wine and food pairings. $100 (includes event ticket), Decatur Conference Center & Hotel [4191 US 36 W, 423.3189] 5p Corks & Forks Taste exquisite wines and delightful food from area chefs. Bid on exciting auction packages featuring weekend getaways, sports events, and more!

Must be 21 to attend. $50 (advance), $55 (door), Decatur Conference Center & Hotel [4191 US 36 W, www. decaturarts.org, 423.3189] 6:30-9:30p Karaoke Supa Star Sliderz [5995 E Route 36] 6:30p St Louis U-Pic-A-Part 100 Late model, modified. Macon Speedway [205 N Wiles St, Macon, www.maconracing.com] 7p

May 2014 | 19

May Events Acoustic Showcase $5 donation suggested, Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland, www.donnieshomespunpizza.com, 424.4344] 9p

5.1-5.4 Yankee Tavern Six years after the fall of the Twin Towers, a young New York tavern owner and his fiancĂŠ find themselves in a web of chilling conspiracy theories surrounding the events leading up to that fateful day in Sept.

2001. $8, Pipe Dreams Studio Theatre [1099 W Wood St, www.millikin.edu] 7:30p (Th-Sa), 2p (Su)

First Friday - Gallery Walk Featured Artist: Sharon Zimmerman.

Gallery 510 [160 E Main, 422.1509] 5-7:30p Kiss-A-Pig Gala Food, music, complimentary beer/ wine. Kentucky Derby theme attire requested. Mt Zion East Convention Center [1400 Mt Zion Parkway, Mt Zion, 875.3011] 6-9:30p University Bands Concert Symphonic band and concert band.

Free, Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main, www.millikin.edu] 7:30p 90s Daughter Sliderz [5995 E Route 36] 9p

Friday, 2 St T Mega Raffle Knights of Columbus Hall [520 E North St]

Overdrive Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 9p-12a

Seniorama Entertainment, prizes, and a parking lot shuttle. Free, Decatur Civic Center Arena [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza] 9a-1p

Bone Jugs N Harmony $3, Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland, www. donnieshomespunpizza.com, 424.4344] 10p

Family Friday The Museum is extending its hours on the first Friday of each month!

Play late and enjoy food for purchase from 5-7p. $5 (ages >=2), Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, cmofil.org, 423.5437] 9:30a-7p After 5 Live: Ready, Set, Ignite Millikin's graphic design students are creating inspirational and unique posters at the event. There will also be some theatre improv and activities for the whole family at the event.

Blue Connection [117 N Water St, 424.6267] 5-8p

5.2-5.3 Spring Open House 25+ vendors. Flea Market Flip Contest Winner announced at 2p(Sa)!

Refreshments & fabulous door prizes!

The Perfect Pair [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] 10a-5p Long Creek Rummage Sales [Long Creek] Swingsations/Les Femmes Dinner Theatre Mt Zion H.S. [455 Elm St, Mt Zion] Park City Homeowners' Assoc.

Spring Vendor's Bazaar Bazaar and bake sale with over 20 vendors. Enter raffle for a ham!

Breakfast and lunch served. Park City [3200 E Delta Ave, 620.4793] 8a-7p (Fr), 8a - ? (Sa)

The Sky's the Limit Presented by the Decatur Park District Dancers. $7 (reserved seat), Decatur Civic Center Theatre [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, www.decatur-parks. org, 422.5911] 7p (Fr & Sa), 2p (Sa) You're A Good Man Charlie Brown $7 (student), $10 (general), Eisenhower High School Auditorium [1200 S 16th St] 7p

5.2-5.4 Game Camp Come join us for three days of nonstop gaming at Camp Warren. We will have the whole camp to ourselves with several gaming areas so we can set up for the entire weekend. Camp Warren provides bedding, towels, kitchen, and gaming rooms. $10/day, Camp Warren [4225 Camp Warren Ln, decaturgamers.com] 5p (Fr) - 2p (Su) 5.2-5.29 Barn Colony Artists Annual Show This exhibit showcases the work of local artists and members of Barn Colony-a wide variety of watercolors, oils, pastels, color pencil, and other media. Madden Arts Center [125 N Water, decaturarts.org, 423.3189] 8:30-4:30p(Mo-Fr), 10a-2p (Sa) Saturday, 3 Golf for Gideon Lunch and silent auction ($10-adult, $5-child) held at First Church of the Nazarene. $55, Hickory Point Golf Course [727 W Weaver Rd, Forsyth] 8a Garden Club Plant Sale Perennial and annual flowers, cactus, hanging baskets and annual flats. We also have reasonably priced plants from our members' gardens. Come early--our plants go quickly! Prairie Avenue Christian Church [2201 E Prairie Ave] 8:30-10:30a Master Gardeners' Plant Sale Do you need annuals, perennials, vegetable plants, or herbs to place in your garden, flower beds, or flowerpots? Large selection of annuals, perennials, hosta varieties,

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

vegetable plants, and herbs. Back this year is the Garden Bargain Shed.

Macon County Fairgrounds [3700 N Westlawn, web.extension.illinois.edu, 877.6042] 9a-2p Outdoor Flea Market The Drive-In Antique Mall [2905 N Oakland, 877.8805] 9a-4p Grow the "Scarborough Herbs" Learn about the folklore of parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme-basil, too.

Plant 5 herbs in a planter box 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 MariMann Ln, 429.1555] 10a-12p Winning Plant Combos Free, Cedar Lake Gardens & Gifts [3231 E Mound, www. cedarlakegardens.com] 10:30a A Children's Celebration of Art and Community Workshops for children and adults.

Celebrate children from across the state of Illinois including reflections artists, scholarship winners, and students who serve their communities. Pre-K - 12th grade. Free, Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main] 12-4:30p

Hummingbirds Galore Participants will learn how to attract hummingbirds, make nectar for them, and discover what they can plant in their yard to bring in these beautiful birds. Reservations required. Free, 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 Kentucky Derby Dinner Auction Decatur Conference Center & Hotel [4191 US 36 W, www.ololschool.com] 5-10:30p Masquerade Fundraiser Music by Kevin Hart & the Vibe Tribe, signature "Mocktails", live & silent auction, mystery envelopes, and photo zones! $35, Heartland Community Church - Grand Palace [3253 N Brush College Rd, www. greaterishewomenshome.org, 433.2168] 6-8p Prairieland Punishers Roller Derby Bout vs. Nemo Viqueens. Fresh mean mixer (4p). $15 (pre-bout VIP), $20 (VIP), $10 (adv), $15 (door), $5 (kids), Decatur Civic Center Arena [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, punishersderby.com] 7p

May Breakfast Shoot-off begins at 10a. Decatur Gun Club [61 Faries Park, decaturgunclub. com] 10a Spring Wildflower Hike & Photo Show Photographer Jerry Sievers will display some of his photos and lead a hike to help visitors spot the beauty he captures on film in real life. During each session someone will have the opportunity to win a wildflower print to take home! Reserv reqd. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www.maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 2p Blues Expressions Great blues. Pop's Place [4335 W Main St, 330.6546] 3-6p Decatur Pickleball Clinic Beginners who are interested in learning the basics or improving skills. All are welcome. Equipment and refreshments available. Kiwanis Park [Tennis courts, jesseblunt@gmail. com] 3-5p

Monday, 5 Decatur Youth Symphony Open House For any young musician in grades 5-12 who is interested in learning more about the orchestra and its activities. Pizza served. Kirkland Fine Car Show Arts Center [1184 W Main, 424.6358] $10 (car entry), Krekel's North [3727 N City Lights Woodford, www.cruisinroosters.org, The movies as they used to be at their 5:15-6:15p 692.2875] 12-4p best! Join us downtown at the Avon Eric K Johnson for a live 35-millimeter screening of Free, Donnie's Homespun Duck Derby Chaplin's masterpiece, City Lights, Free admission at the museum. Fun accompanied by MDSO. Tickets must Pizza [126 S Oakland, www. donnieshomespunpizza.com, crafts and games before the big be purchased through Kirkland. race at 2p. Duck derby prizes range $16.50, Avon Theatre [426 N Water St, 424.4344] 10p from $500-3500. $5 (duck), Free www.millikin.edu, 424.6318] 7:30p Tuesday, 6 (admission), Children's Museum of Bargain Gardening Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, www.

Double Shot Don’t let a limited budget keep you cmofil.org] 12-4p Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] out of the garden. Find out how 8p-12a gardens can be simple, fun, and Rock the Campus inexpensive. You’ll learn gardening Activities, food, and an endless supply Ultra Violet of bands. Open to the community.

Classic rock. Pop's Place [4335 W Main tips and ideas that will save you time and money. This program is using SAE House Parking Lot [1165 W Main] St, 330.6546] 9p-1a Lync video conferencing system.

12-10p University of Illinois Extension, Macon Sunday, 4 County Office [3351 N President Free Community Yoga Howard Brown Blvd, 877.6042] 1:30p Enjoy yoga in the great outdoors.

Free, Nelson Park [Pavilion #1, www. decatur-parks.org] 10-11:30a

May 2014 | 21

May Events

Wednesday, 7 Central Illinois Honor Flight Trip WWII - Returns Come show your support of our WWII veteran's and welcome them back from D.C., Decatur Airport [910 S Airport Rd] Time TBD 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 Culinary Arts Luncheon $10, Richland Community College [Shilling Center, 875.7200 x740] Seating from 11:30-12:30p Books Between Bites (BBB) The Presidents’ Club: Inside the World’s Most Exclusive Fraternity

by Nancy Gibbs & Michael Duffy.

Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, www.decaturlibrary.org] 12:15p Wednesday Women This is an informal group 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! Bizou [259 N Main, 433.0834] 5-9p Greg Bickers Sliderz [5995 E Route 36] 6:30p

Thursday, 8 Stars Over Athens Bake sale - homemade Greek and Middle Eastern pastries (9a). A la carte luncheon (11a-2p). Greek dinner, Greek dancing, and live Greek band. 2 seatings 5:30 & 7:30p. $25 (adult), $15

(child), Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church [570 N Union St, www. annunciationdecatur.org, 685.0094] 9a-7:30p

LHP No cover acousticness! Call for reservations! Paco's Sol Bistro [237 N Main St, 330.6483] 8-11p

Book Discussion: And the Mountains Echoed Argenta Library [100 E Water, Argenta, www.aopld.lib.il.us, 795.2144] 1:302:30p

Fabulous Hoedads Lock Stock & Barrel, 8p-12a

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

5.9-5.10 Annual Plant Sale Richland Community College [One College Park, richland.edu] 7a-6p (Fr), 7a-1p (Sa)

Fabulous Hoedads Decatur Moose Lodge #684 [1390 N Woodford, 877.0143] 7-10p Millikin Folk Combo Free, Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland, www. donnieshomespunpizza.com, 424.4344] 8p

5.8-5.9 Chamber Business Expo VIP Preview Party (5-7p Th), State of City Address (7-8a Fr), Expo 8a-3p Fr), Taste of Decatur (11:30a-1:30p Fr). Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, 422.2200] Friday, 9 Decatur Young Guns Happy Hour Cash bar. Free, Southside Country Club [1650 Cottage Dr] 5-7p 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

Robbie Mitchell Sliderz [5995 E Route 36] 9p

Plant Sale Plants for sale include tropicals, perennials, shrubs, trees, annuals, succulents, cacti, and terrariums.

Schaub Floral Display Center [3415 E Lost Bridge Rd, www.decatur-parks. org, 421.7550] 9a-3p

5.9-5.11 Experience History Join us for an unforgettable experience aboard one of the few remaining airworthy B-17's in the world. $10 (person-ground tour), $449 (person-plane ride), Decatur Airport [910 S Airport Rd, B17.org, 800.359.6217] Saturday, 10 Mother's Day Breakfast Biscuits and gravy. Bake sale. $3.50 (half ), $5 (whole), Maroa Firehouse [Maroa] 6a-12p Whitmore Park Spring Classic Half marathon and 5-mile run. $30-35, Whitmore Park [4318 Birch Church Rd, www.decaturrunningclub.com, 620.4835] 8-11:30a

Pamper Me! Ladies Brunch and Health Fair Mothers Day Wine Tasting Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 6-8p Free health screenings, Q&A with the area's top health experts, free spa treatments, inspiring talks, vendors, and giveaways. $10 (brunch), $20 (gala), Heartland Community Church - Grand Palace [3253 N Brush College Rd, 855.4747] 8:30a-1:30p

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

Hercules Challenge 1 mile, 5K. Enjoy a pancake and sausage breakfast after. $10 (single), $25 (family), Fletcher Park [Mt Zion] 9a

finals at the MLB All-Star Game!

Rotary Park #2 [2450 US 51 Business, www.decatur-parks.org, 429.3472] 10:30a-3p

Car Show $10 (car entry), Main Hangar Restaurant [910 S Airport Rd, www. cruisinroosters.org, 692.2875] 4-8p

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

Saturday Book Club Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, barclay.lib.il.us, 672.3621] 11a

Oakwood Street Festival Kentucky Knife Fight, Sunshine Daydream, Noah's Back Alley Blues, Millikin Latin Jazz Project, West End Boogie Project. Oakland & Main [oakwooddecatur.com] 5p-12a

Animal Crackers-Marvelous Mammals What has hair, breathes air, and drinks milk? Mammals do! Children aged 3 – 5 will read a story about a mammal’s journey, meet a few of the zoo’s mammals, and make a fuzzy craft to take home. $9-10, Scovill Zoo [71 S Country Club Rd, www.decatur-parks. org, 421.7435] 9:30-10:15a & 11-11:45a Dulcimer Club Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 10a-12p

Rock Hounds Bring your trowel or rock hammer to unearth some prehistoric fossils or other rock forms from a glacial kame. Search for and identify some animals that survived in Illinois millions of years ago. No specimens may be removed from the site.

Ages 6+. $5 (person), Griswold Conservation Area [Blue Mound, www.maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 1-4p Zippy Zoo Day with Mom Celebrate Mother's Day with balloon animals, face painting, and animal presentations! Moms enter free with paying child. Scovill Zoo [71 S Country Club Rd, www.decatur-parks.org, 421.7435] 1-4p

Coming Together Gala Come out for an elegant evening of fellowship, music, and great food.

Enjoy music from local musicians including Evangelist Frankie Woods, Women Of Praise, and many more! Formal attire. $20, Heartland Community Church - Grand Palace [3523 N Brush College Rd, 855.4747] 6-9:30p GLAD Social Container gardening and plant exchange. Location TBD [gladdecatur. com] 6:30p

Haunted History Tour From lost burial grounds to haunted How Does Your Garden Grow? theaters, the Haunted Decatur Tour is Learn about the many herbs and Fletcher Park Kids Club much more than just a run-of-the-mill everlastings and their uses. Weather Seuss Day. Featuring Doodles the ghost tour! $30, Departs from The permitting, you will also take a walk Dragon, Granny Giggles, and The Gary Avon [426 N Water, haunteddecatur. through the gardens. Space limited.

Strong Marionette Show. Concessions, com] 7p Call to reserve your spot. Free, Marilive entertainment, old time movies, Mann Herb Farm [1405 Mari-Mann Ln, classic cartoons, and prizes. $4 (adult), Night Fever - The Bee Gees Tribute Capturing a full history of the Bee 429.1555] 10a-12p $1 (child), Fletcher Park [Recreation Gees, includes songs from "To Love Center, Mt Zion, mtzion.com, Preschool Peepers: Ribbits & Hops 864.5424] 2-3:30p Somebody," "I Started A Joke," "Jive Come ponder what life must Talking," "More Than A Woman," "Nite be like for a frog in a pond, or Jazz Bash V Fever," "You Should Be Dancing," imagine what it’s like to dig yourself MU Jazz Band I, Jazz Band II, jazz "Tragedy," "Stayin' Alive.," and many underground like a toad. Study the combos, One Voice, and the Latin Jazz more. $10-$30, Kirkland Fine Arts life of our local amphibians and visit Project. Free, Lock Stock & Barrel [129 Center [1184 W Main, www.millikin. their homes! Ages 3-5 with adult S Oakland] 2-6p edu, 424.6318] 7:30p companion. Free, Rock Springs Paint Like Me Party - Pretty Girl Sally Edwards Comedy Concert Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www.maconcountyconservation.org, A beautiful canvas created in varying Dessert/appetizer reception followed shades of pink, cream, grays, and even by the comedy. $25, The Lampstand 423.7708] 10a a bit of lace. This canvas is absolutely Church [655 S Airport Rd, www.

Pitch, Hit & Run Competition gorgeous. The canvas size is 16x20. goodsamaritaninn.org, 429.1455] Boys and girls aged 7-14 have the $50 (person), The Perfect Pair [266 N 8-10p opportunity to showcase their St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] 3-5p Escaping Neverland baseball and softball skills. You may Pop's Place [4335 W Main St, 330.6546] advance to the team championships 360 Band Sliderz [5995 E Route 36] 4p 9p-1a at Busch Stadium during a Cardinals game and may qualify for the national Prince Night Sliderz [5995 E Route 36] 9:30p

May 2014 | 23

May Events

Sunday, 11 Blue Grass Music Jams Bring your instrument, learn a new tune or simply enjoy the musical talents of our volunteers. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www.maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 1-4p Mother's Day Mothers and grandmothers receive free admissions on Mother's Day. Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, cmofil.org, 423.5437] 1-5p Family Science Sunday This month, we will create solarpowered ovens and race cars and build and fly kites, plus create a sustainable flower pot with a flower from Richland Farms to take home to your mom or grandmother for Mother's Day! Free with general admission, Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, cmofil.org, 423.5437] 2-4p

different settings of the "American Girl" stories and enjoy fun activities and crafts. No doll required! Ages 7+, please register. Mt Zion District Library [115 W Main, Mt Zion, www.mtzion. lib.il.us, 864.3622] 4:30-5:30p Sweet Repeats Presented by Decatur IL Moms. The mother of all kid sales. Over 30 tables of gently used baby and kid items. $2, Decatur Civic Center Arena [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza] 5:30-8:30p Open Mic Night with Antone & Friends Whether you play an instrument, sing, or just like to listen, join us for our open mic night with Antone & Friends. It's a great time for the whole family. Antioch Christian Church [5409 E US Rt 36, 864.3444] 6-9p

Fabulous Hoedads Elmer's Old Time Inn [2550 E William St] 8-11p

Friday, 16 Gil Lebois Photographic Exhibition Texaco Gas Station [266 W Main St, www.leboisgil.com] 5p Joshua Scott Jones Sliderz [5995 E Route 36] 9p Oakhill Recording Artist Jenny Campbell Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 9p-1a

5.16-5.17 Mt Zion Town Sale [Mt Zion, www.mtzion.com]

Shannons Gospel Rally Doug Anderson (Fr), Declaration Trio (Sa). Both nights include Rachel Taylor, OPUS 24 "Of Thee I Sing" $10 (adult), $5 (child), Central Christian Lori Jonathan Trio, State Of Grace, Church [650 W William, decaturopus. New Covenant, Masters Own, The Jubilees and The Mattingly Family. com] 7:30p Free, love offering, Salem Baptist Church [2650 S Taylorville Rd, sbc4me.

Thursday, 15 org] 6p Book Club Biscuit Miller & the Mix Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn. Decatur Chicago blues band. Pop's Place [4335 Public Library [Board Room, www.

Comedy Hour W Main St, 330.6546] 3-6p Gabe Kea, headlined by Brian decaturlibrary.org, 424.2900] 1p Aldridge. $10-12, Main Hangar [910 S Monday, 12 Greater Decatur Chamber Business Airport Rd, mainhangarrestaurant.net, Kickin Ribs Cooking school 421.7452] 8:30p After Hours Summer cabbage slaw, baby back Come out for refreshments and pork ribs with blackberry or peach Saturday, 17 appetizers at this casual networking sauce. Molten mac & cheese, cowboy event. Free, SCORE/Millikin University DMH Wellness Center 5K beans, open pit baked peach cobbler. [Kirkland Fine Arts Center] 5-7p All ages and ability levels are Pre-payment required. $26, Mariwelcome. This event helps celebrate Mann Herb Farm [1405 Mari-Mann Ln, Kaijudo at the Library the success of our members and 429.1555] 6-8p patients who have achieved success Join us as we learn how to play in moving toward a healthier lifestyle.

Kaijudo. Each new participant will Tuesday, 13 DMH Wellness Center [2122 N 27th receive a starter desk. Everyone American Girl Club St] 9a receives hand-on 'how to play'.

Join us for our American Girl Club Must register. Pizza, chips, and drink where we introduce the history Garden Tea Party provided. Ages 8+. Mt Zion District and culture of America during the For kids. Cedar Lake Gardens Library [115 W Main, Mt Zion, www. & Gifts [3231 E Mound, www. mtzion.lib.il.us, 864.3622] 5:30-7p cedarlakegardens.com] 10:30a

NOW OPEN IN FORSYTH

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

Family Fun: Untraveled Trails Discover the forest with a naturalist as we immerse ourselves in the bounty of nature off the beaten path. For all ages. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 1:30p

Feed the Animals To the animals in residence, Rock Springs is a five-star hotel! Come help serve our guests lunch and then visit their natural habitats. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www.maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 2p

Four Other Brothers Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 3:30-5:30p

Hurricane Ruth Blues/classic rock/original. Pop's Place [4335 W Main St, 330.6546] 3-6p

Nicole Horvath Memorial Festival Richland Dancers (5p), refreshments (5-9:30p), children's activities - hula hoop lessons, face painting, balloons and magic (5:30-7:30p) Marc Thomas and the Moose Show (6p), MU Children's Choir (7p), Backyard Theatre showing: Annie (8:15p). Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, barclay.lib.il.us, 672.3621] 5p

Couples/Singles Dance Live band. $10, Knights of Columbus Hall [520 E North St, dancingdates. com, 875.3090] 5-8p

Karaoke Supa Star Decatur Conference Center & Hotel [4191 US 36 W] 6:30p Johnny T Sliderz [5995 E Route 36] 9p

Tuesday, 20 All About Bees The Amazing Honey Bee includes the life cycle, pollination and colony collapse disorder. Learn how we, as local gardeners, can help close the "Bee Gap" by utilizing gentle-natured Mason Bees. Free, Decatur Public Library [Madden Auditorium, www. decaturlibrary.org, 424.2900] 1p

Wednesday, 21 Decatur Young Guns Seminar Patrick Hoban, topic is professional Johnny Vodka Classic rock. Pop's Place [4335 W Main branding. Free, Doherty's Pub & Pins [242 E William] 5-7p St, 330.6546] 9p-1a Your Villain My Hero Sliderz [5995 E Route 36] 9p

Greg Bickers Sliderz [5995 E Route 36] 6:30p

Fireside Relics & Illinois Nationals Lock Stock & Barrel, 9:30p-1a

Billy Galt On the patio. Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 7-9p

5.17.18 CIGS Rebels Shootout 10U, 12U, 14U Open. Borg Warner Sports Complex [Rt 51 South, www. cigsrebels.net] Sunday, 18 Adult Birding Camp Learn how to use and care for binoculars; use identification guides by practicing on setup scenarios with the IRC's live birds of prey. Birders will then hike into the Sangamon River floodplain to try their hand at wild bird sightings. $35, Illinois Raptor Center [5685 W Hill Rd, www. illinoisraptorcenter.org, 963.6909] 8-10a

Friday, 23 Scovill Zoo Golf Outing You’ll enjoy a great day of golf, lunch on the patio, a surprise animal visitor, prizes, and reception (5p). $600 (team), Hickory Point Golf Course [727 W Weaver Rd, www.decatur-parks.org, 422.2211] 12:15p Refresh Jr Conference & Lock-In Girls in grades 6-12 are welcome.

Dinner, snack, and breakfast provided.

Rachel Wilson, Diva Samuels, and Pastor Brenda will speak. Food, games, giveaways, makeovers, t-shirt, gift bags, and lock-in. $15, GT Church [500 S 27th St, www.gtchurch.com/events, 233.8400] 5:30p(Fr) -12p (Sa)

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

Rum Tasting Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 6-8p Family Night Live This month, we are having an outdoor movie. Bring your blanket, lawn chair, or whatever you need to be comfy.

We will also have hamburgers and hot dogs. Great family activity, snacks, and fellowship. Great for young families to connect. Movie 7p. Antioch Christian Church [5409 E US Rt 36, 864.3444] 6:30p

Saturday, 24 T7 Reunion Rounding up members for a family or class reunion can be a daunting task.

Theatre 7 hopes to find many of those who have moved from the Decatur area, through its network of current members, patrons, and information volunteered by the community.

Decatur Conference Center & Hotel [Backyard, theatre7.net, 423.2107] Time TBD Airport Fun Day View a display by the Army National Guard, climb aboard the Park District’s Striker emergency vehicle, and enjoy a pancake breakfast sponsored by the Experimental Aircraft Association.

Decatur Airport [910 S Airport Rd, www.decatur-parks.org, 428.2423] 8-11a Dash to the Bash 5k/10k After party with live music, food and drinks. $35 includes entry to the race, t-shirt, beer glass, a beer ticket and entry to the after party. Sliderz [5995 E Route 36, www.juniorwelfare.com] 9a Toe the Line - Bring Jin Home 5K run/walk. $30, Forsyth Park [700 W Weaver Rd, Forsyth, www. decaturrunningclub.com] 9-11:30a Dulcimer Club Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 10a-12p

(217) 330-9552

www.dalesrx.com May 2014 | 25

May Events

VanGogh 101 Learn the ins and outs of creating fabulous Shabby Chic finishes. This technique is easy and fun! Learn how to layer colors, distress and wax on samples to reproduce on your own furniture pieces, picture frames, garden ornaments, etc. $125, The Perfect Pair [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] 12-4:30p Pinewood Derby Macon Speedway [205 N Wiles St, Macon, www.maconracing.com] 1p Rock Springs Ground Squirrels vs. St Louis Perfectos Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 1p Birds of a Feather Hike Listen to the birds chirp and watch them chow down on their favorite seeds. Then go out to the trails with open eyes and ears for a bird watching hike. For all ages.

Reservations required. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www.maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 2p Dixie Daredevils Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 3:30-5:30p Evening Campfire Hear stories, play games, and roast marshmallows. Travel back to another time listening to traditional Native American lore, and enjoy the heat and light from a blazing fire. For all ages. Reservations required. $2

(person), $10 (family), Friends Creek Conservation Area [Cisco, www. maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 5-7p Paint Like Me Party - Skyline Couples work together to create an abstract cityscape painting. Texture techniques, metallic foil and collage work are used to create a mixed media, 2-part artwork with some color customization of couples' choice. $80 (couple), The Perfect Pair [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822] 6:30-8:30p Haunted History Tour From lost burial grounds to haunted theaters, the Haunted Decatur Tour is much more than just a run-of-the-mill ghost tour! $30, Departs from The Avon [426 N Water, haunteddecatur. com] 7p Copper Canyon Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 8p-12a Drag Show Hosted by Ceduxion. Katz [112 N Merchant St] 10p Nerd Noize Mike and Olivia, Tom Johnson.

Free, Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland, www. donnieshomespunpizza.com, 424.4344] 10p

5.24-5.25 Cookin' with the Chorale Picnic in the park and enjoy music In the Good Ol’ Summertime by the Greater Decatur Chorale! Concessions and hot grills for cooking will be available at 5p. Free, Fairview Park [Pavilion #1, www.decatur-parks.org, 422.5911] 6p

Sunday, 25 Casey Williams Sand Volleyball Tournament Live (5p) & silent (11a-4:30p) auctions. $75 (team), Timbuktu [5843 E US Rt 36, www.caseywilliamsfoundation.org, 820.9759] 10:30a Chuck Robb Memorial Rockathon Chuck Robb was iconic in the Decatur music scene. He was a true entertainer and loved by many. It is only fitting that we remember him by having the biggest...most bad ass... music event to come to Decatur! $7, AIW Hall [2882 N Dinneen Ave] 2p-12a James Millikin Homestead Open House $2 (adult), $.50 (child), Millikin Homestead [125 N Pine] 2-4p Shape Note Singing Experienced singers from the Charleston-Mattoon Sacred Harp Singers will delight the public with their unique music. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www.maconcountyconservation.org, 423.7708] 2-4p Tracking Tracks Hike We will head to the pond and maybe even the wetland to see whose tracks were left behind as they squished along the water’s edge. For all ages.

Reservations required. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www.maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 2p Black Magic Johnson Pop's Place [4335 W Main St, 330.6546] 3-6p Summer Movie Club It's similar to a book club but with movies. You watch the movie at home and then join a webinar from the comfort of your own home to discuss it with your partner and other couples. [www.connectedpairs.com, 638.5545] 8p

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

Riverbottom Sliderz [5995 E Route 36] 9p

Monday, 26 Memorial Day at the Zoo Veterans will enjoy free admission and train rides on Memorial Day at Scovill Zoo! Scovill Zoo [71 S Country Club Rd, www.decatur-parks.org, 421.7435] 10a-7p Night of NASCAR Stars I Macon Speedway [205 N Wiles St, Macon, www.maconracing.com] 7p

Tuesday, 27 Non-fiction Book Club The End of Illness by David Agus.

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

Fabulous Hoedads Elmer's Old Time Inn [2550 E William St] 8-11p

Friday, 30 Grillin' in the Garden: a traditional Louisiana-style Low Country Boil Down home culinary evening. Dress to get messy. Bluegrass music, live auction, micro brews sampling.

Pulled pork sliders, fried okra, grits, cornbread, pound cake bar, pralines, low country peach tea. $75 (single), $125 (couple), Baby Talk [500 East Lake Shore Dr, www.babytalk.org, 475.2234] 6-9p Bachelor/Bachelorette Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 7-10p Ashley Riley Call for reservations! Paco's Sol Bistro [237 N Main St, 330.6483] 8-11p

Night Hike Venture into the darkness at this remote conservation area. Experiment Open Game Night with your five senses and see how Family friendly group playing board, they can play tricks with your mind. card, and role-playing games. Games This hike is highly recommended available or bring your own. Mancinos for all outdoor adventurers. For all Pizza and Grinders [2805 N Main, ages. Reservations required. Free, www.decaturgamers.com] 5:30p Ft. Daniel Conservation Area [www. maconcountyconservation.org, Wednesday, 28 423.7708] 9-11p National Senior Health & Fitness Day 5.30-5.31 Enjoy health screenings courtesy Comedy Hour of DMH, exercise activities, fitness Kate Brindle, headlined by Vince demonstrations, and giveaways. DISC Morris. $10-12, Main Hangar [910 S [1295 W Wood, www.decatur-parks.

Airport Rd, mainhangarrestaurant.net, org, 429.3472] 8-11a 421.7452] 8:30p Billy Galt On the patio. Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 7-9p

Thursday, 29 Greater Decatur Chamber Business After Hours Come out for refreshments and appetizers at this casual networking event. Free, Newell's Auto Body [996 W Harrison] 5-7p

5.30-6.1 CIGS Rebels Shootout 10U, 12U, 14U A. Borg Warner Sports Complex [Rt 51 South, www. cigsrebels.net] Times Vary

Saturday, 31 Scrap 'n Craft Day Bring your scrapbooking or crafts projects and work on them with other crafty people. Light breakfast and lunch provided. Call for more information. $15, Barclay Public Library [220 E Main St, Warrensburg, 672.3621] 9a-4p Finders Flea Market Come and enjoy shopping and exploring lots of unique one-of-akind finds, styles for you and your home, the best of old and new and some yummy treats, too. Lions Center Pavilion [1595 W Main St, Mt Zion, www.jumpjiveproductions.com, 454.6365] 10a-4p Diversity Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 3:30-5:30p West End Boogie Project Sliderz [5995 E Route 36] 4p Canoe the Sangamon Lake Decatur drains into the beautiful waterways of Illinois via the Sangamon River. Paddle a canoe along this winding river on a surprisingly beautiful three-hour trip.

All equipment provided. $20, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, www.maconcountyconservation. org, 423.7708] 5-8p Final Authority West Decatur Church of God [4500 W Main] 6p Upshot Sliderz [5995 E Route 36] 9p

MidState Cup Tournament Cheer on your favorite athletes, featuring U8 - U14 boys and girls club teams from Illinois and surrounding states. Soccer Complex [1 Educational Park, midstatesoccer.com, 429.3472] Times Vary

May 2014 | 27

Decatur Gamers Build Skills & Friendships

by Angela Parson Myers “The popular stereotype of a gamer is a guy sitting alone in front of a screen in his parents’ basement,” admits Steve Sanders.

Not so with Decatur Gamers, he says. While many of them also enjoy playing electronic games, members of the club have been getting together face to face to play board games for the last five years, and their relationships have grown beyond simple interest in gaming.

REGISTER NOW for

Summer/Fall 2014

SEARCH OUR COURSES

ONLINE!

richland.edu/registration

One College Park | Decatur, Illinois 62521 | 217.875.7200, Ext 267 | richland.edu/registration 28 | May 2014

ers com/DecaturGam http://www.meetup. image captured from

“Gamers are social animals,” he says, noting that even electronic gaming involves much more social interaction than many people realize. “We all had the common interest of gaming at the start. Then we talked over our games and developed friendships.”

Those friendships have endured, and members of Decatur Gamers will celebrate

their club’s fifth anniversary during Game Camp 2014, three days of non-stop gaming sponsored by the club on May 2-4 at Camp Warren. Game Camp has been held by Decatur Gamers for three years, but this is the first year it will fill the entire weekend.

The organizers expect 25 or 30 people to attend, some spending the entire three days and others only one or two. continued ON page 30

Main Hangar Comedy Hour

- PRESENTED BY -

Limited seating-only 100 tickets sold each show!

$10 in advance, $12 day of show Shows begin at 8:30; 6:30 reservations recommended.

Seating is determined on a first-come, first-served basis.

For tickets visit the Main Hangar Restaurant, mainhangarrestaurant.net, or call 217-421-7452

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

Brian Aldridge with Gabe Kea Friday, May 16 & Saturday, May 17

Vince Morris with Kate Brindle Friday, May 30 & Saturday, May 31

Decatur Gamers continued FROM PAGE 29

Decatur Gamers started with a group of five people who came together because Matt Williams and Chris Baker were trying to find people to play Settlers of Catan.

Steve joined at the second meeting, held in The Decatur Club, one of 20 people who showed up. Since then, the club has grown to include 235 members.

The gamers play a wide variety of board games. When most people mention gaming clubs, they’re thinking of role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons, fantasy games like Munchkin, miniature war games like Warhammer or collectible card games like Magic: The Gathering and Pokemon.

Decatur Gamers play all these and more, like the “classic” games Monopoly, Yahtzee, and Scrabble and popular games like Bananagrams and Apples to Apples. These are just a sample, and if you don’t see your favorite game listed on the club’s website at www.meetup.com/DecaturGamers, you can post it to find out if others are interested in playing.

“We welcome anybody who likes to roll the dice,” says Steve. “We want the whole gaming community to play together and have fun.”

The critical thinking and social skills learned in gaming have benefits that go beyond the game table. Members of Decatur Gamers take these skills back to their jobs, making them better employees. Member Kevin Callarman went a step farther when he literally took gaming to work by opening Board Knight, a gaming store in downtown Decatur.

Also, about a year and a half ago a few members of the club, including Steve, started Games for Troops, a not-for-profit charity to send board games to troops overseas, and have filled a number of requests already. They have fundraisers a couple of times a year and take donations of money or new board games.

Club members are now organizing HeroiCon, a new gaming convention in “If you can dream it,” says Steve, “you Decatur May 15 through 17, 2015. Games for Troops plans to sponsor the event to can play it.” help raise funds. The next five years promise The membership is as diverse as the to be even more exciting for Decatur selection of games. Most fall between Gamers than the first five. teens to middle-aged, but also included are children as young as Steve’s five-year-old Find out more about Game Camp and daughter and a few retired folks, he says. the scheduled events on the website at And a good many of them are women. www.meetup.com/DecaturGamers/ Most meet-ups are family friendly, and if events/147067992. Those who wish one isn’t, members are warned in advance. to attend must register in advance.

Members also come from all professions.

Steve is an IT professional with Decatur schools. His wife is an attorney, and another member is a college teacher. Others work at a correctional facility, a philanthropic organization, a hospital, and in banking, retail and manufacturing. You don’t even have to live in Decatur.

If you’d like to attend a regular meet-up, you can find a schedule at www.meetup.com/ DecaturGamers/?scroll=true. If you don’t find your favorite game listed, message the webmaster to ask if it can be made available.

Get There: Decatur Gamers www.meetup.com/DecaturGamers/ events/147067992 30 | May 2014

MAY ACTIVITY PAGE Find the 20 hidden words

Game On!

P B G R Y I I B M M B F E C H H G J R G A I Q Q C R M E I S A I K O O N B E S Y D E C A T U R J N E P E C R I M N L F Q S E S K K S I P I A E K T N K G P J B B A T R V L M K O G A E B N E H I F E A P R A E A S E Y O O Y Z U S V S I M L T T C L M G C Y B L L D R O E I S J L M U E H E V L R E P A F O H V P R R E C C O S E W Y S I A I Q L D X I E H L F C N R R R D N M C U T C G L N I L T G A M E S M Y B L T L X J Y E G W B C J R I G J F E H R H A I O B S P M K T Y J V Y P K R V N H I I N H B O N B M Z C I G K B O Z F E D U R B G N I P M U J I T J V C D X T G J F E D G P I E R O F B U W S E O R V ARCHERY BAT BICYCLE COMPETE

DECATUR FORE FRISBEE GAMES

HOCKEY JUMPING MINI GOLF PICKLEBALL

PING PONG POOL RACE RUNNING

SCORE SOCCER TARGET TEAM

May 2014 | 31

M

A

Y

MARTINI ON MERCHANT

Throughout the month of MAY

Ultra Violet

Saturday, 5/3, 9p-1a

$5

Biscuit Miller & The Mix

Blues Expressions Sunday, 5/4, 3-6p

Escaping Neverland

Saturday, 5/10, 9p-1a

Sunday, 5/11, 3-6p

Johnny Vodka

Saturday, 5/17, 9p-1a

Hurricane Ruth

Sunday, 5/18, 3-6p

Black Magic Johnson Sunday, 5/25, 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 | May 2014

Pickleball photo: Elizabeth Highcock

In A Pickle Pickleball is kind of a big dill in Decatur

by Troy Hayes

It has a funny name, leading one to think all sorts of odd things about the game Pickleball. But given a chance, it quickly grows on all who try it. Sherry Plain has the Pickleball fever, and she’s spreading it around town.

She visited her mother in Florida last year and saw people playing the game, which looks a little like giant Ping-Pong or mini tennis. She immediately fell in love with the game.

“I played it for three or four hours that first day,” she says, “and every day after that.” Now, in Decatur, there are multiple opportunities to do just that.

Plain has Pickleball leagues set up at the YMCA to play indoors and with the Park District to play outdoors once the weather becomes consistent.

The game is similar to tennis but incorporates some badminton rules as well. It’s played with wooden or composite paddles that are in limited availability at the Y (paddles can be bought online and cost anywhere from $20 to $80) and what looks like an oversized, hard whiffle ball. Points are scored by the serving side only and occur when the opponent faults (fails to return the ball, hits the ball out of bounds, steps into the 'kitchen' area [the first 7 feet from the net, also known as the non-volley zone] in the act of volleying the ball). A player may enter the non-volley zone to play a ball that bounces and may stay there to play balls that bounce.

The player must exit the non-volley zone before playing a volley. The first side scoring 11 points and leading by at least two points wins.

It’s a smaller court than tennis, making the game attractive for all fitness levels and for all ages. Participants so far range from early 20s to seniors.

“It can be as athletic as you want it to be,” says Sherry. “You can run and dive after balls and try to make a crazy shot. Knock yourself out, but you don’t have to do that. On a court the size of Pickleball, you usually don’t have to run far.”

Since she started playing Pickleball here on Wednesdays and Fridays from 1:30 to 3:30 pm and Sundays from 8 to 10 am, she says the interest has really grown.

“We have to rotate through on Sundays because of only having two courts, which is good,” she says. “I personally don’t like sitting out, but I am thrilled that we have the interest to have to do that.”

Once the weather stabilizes, leagues will move outdoors to Kiwanis Park, where they will be offered Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 8 pm and again on Sundays from 8 to 10 am.

Pickleball courts will be lined on the tennis courts for outdoor play.

It’s a game that is easily learned but difficult to master and, by nearly all accounts, is incredibly fun.

“I tell people, ‘come out and just watch,’” Sherry says. “They always come back to play.”

Get There: Decatur Pickleball League www.facebook.com/DecaturPickleball www.usapa.org

Troy Hayes is s freelance writer.

May 2014 | 33

SATURDAY, MAY 10, 2014

Kirkland Fine Arts Center

Night Fever

The Bee Gees Tribute tkts

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

kirklandfinearts.com 34 | May 2014

SPOT THE

DIFFERENCES For a chance to win:

A FREE Color Consultation ($75 value) & FREE Room Makeover ($150 value) Makeover includes: 1 gallon of ceiling paint, 2 gallons of wall paint and supplies.

2705 N Water, Decatur IL | 876.0108 | sherwin-williams.com

original

2 WAYS TO WIN:

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