March 2015 Thrive Entertainment Guide

S POT THE DIFF E R E N C E C H A L L E N G E : Fleet Feet

FREE

Mar 2015

SPOTLIGHT// Penguin in the Park ART SPEAK// Immersed in the Arts FOOD DUDE// Casa Fuentes Q&A// Paco Greenwell

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS List your event for FREE! Send your information by the 15th to events@thrivedecatur.com THRIVE is a free, monthly entertainment guide serving as your guide to events in Macon County. 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 @THRIVEDecatur Publisher: Katrina Smalley publisher@thrivedecatur.com The Eventor: Stephanie Zimmerman events@thrivedecatur.com Editor and Senior Writer: Joli Hohenstein Copy Editor: Teena Zindel-McWilliams Photography Coordinator: Sarah Jane Contributors: Jo Caulkins Jerry Johnson Kim Mangan Rachel Peabody Robin Walters Photographers: Sarah Jane Kim Mangan Robin Walters Layout Design: Showcard Studio Printing: Wood Printing Special thanks to the Macon Resources CAPS Program (Community Awareness, Possibilities & Supports) and ECNO Group (Empowering Community Network Opportunities) for all your help with delivering THRIVE each month!

Disclaimer: The contents of this magazine are covered by copyright. Reproduction in-part or in-full is forbidden, without the express permission of the publisher. It is not our intention to print any matter that discriminates on the grounds of race, sex, age, sexual orientation or disability.

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

02 | March 2015

Decatur Downtown • All Things Beautiful Collectibles and Gifts • Allen Chiropractic Clinic • Ameren Illinois • Avon Theater • Be Yoga Decatur • 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 Cafe • Downtown Fitness Club • Earthen Pottery • Embroidered Expressions • Fringe Salon • G-B’s CDs • Giggles • Goodfellas • Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce • Haines & Essick Co. • KC Hall • Lockhart’s Barbershop • Madden Arts Center • Merle Norman • Millikin Bank Building • Neuhoff Media • Never Forgotten Thymes • Nova Framing/Gallery 510 • Novel Ideas • One Main Place • Paco’s Sol Bistro • Park District • Pastabilities • Rack's • Regions Bank • Robbies Outlet • Salon 402 • Shear Learning Academy • Sloan’s Calzones • Soy Capital Bank • Speed Lube • Speed Lube Total Care • St Nicholas Grille • Studio 7 Salon & Day Spa • Taproot • The Decanter Fine Wine & Spirits • The Decatur Club • The Newsstand • Tournesol • Victory Pharmacy • Wabash Depot Antique Center • Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe • Zips Flowers by the Gates • Decatur East • ADM • Archers Alley • Beach House • Boys & Girls Club of Decatur • C&K Custom Signs • Caterpillar • Cedar Lake Gardens & Gifts • Children’s Museum of Illinois • CrossFit Enhanced • Culver’s • Debbie’s Diner • Decatur Earthmover Credit Union • Decatur Surf Club • DMH Family Medicine • Exsalonce Studio & Day Spa • Healing Arts Boutique & Studios • Jan’s East End Grill • Kroger • La Gondola • Land of Lincoln Credit Union • Linda’s Music • Loretta's Work Boots • Macon County Health Department • Monical’s Pizza • New Look Salon • Park City • Pride Coin Laundry • RC Shack • Reflection Salon • Rendezvous Bar & Grill • Renew Total Wellness • Richland Community College • Schaub Floral Display Center and Greenhouse • Signature Salon • Solar Tan • Soy Capital Bank • Star Silkscreen • Sunrise Bakery • Tate & Lyle • 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 • Caldwell Banker Honig-Bell • Cancer Care Center of Decatur • Cartridge World • Casa Fuentes • Central Illinois Hand Center • Chicago Title Insurance Company • Coffee Connection • Corley Family Dental • Culver’s • Curly’s Bar • DaVita Macon County Dialysis • Decatur Animal Clinic • Decatur Back & Neck Center • Decatur Family YMCA • Decatur Memorial Hospital • 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 • Larry Paul Tanning Salon • 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 Murphy's • Party Warehouse • Pho Golden Noodle Bowl • Pla-Mor Lanes • Play It Again Sports • Poage Auto Mall • Pride Coin Laundry • Priority Health Family Medicine • Regions Bank • Sleep Inn • Smith Tire Co. • Soy Capital Bank • Spare Time Lanes • Speed Lube - Pershing • The Secret Garden • The Teacher’s Lounge • The Wagon • Up N’ Runnin’ • Decatur South • Billingsley BP Service Station • Dale’s Southlake Pharmacy • Decatur Athletic Club • Guadalajara • Kids-N-Fitness • Lockhart’s Barber College • Mari-Mann Herb Co. • Personal Medical Supply • Rock Springs Nature Center • Solar Tan • Speed Lube • The Reserve • The Wharf • Tried & True Tattoo • Decatur West • Advanced Disposal • Blue Spoon of Oakwood • Bottoms Up • Bourbon Barrel • Cafe Brio • Casey’s General Store • Cherry Berry • Decatur Conference Center & Hotel • Decatur Indoor Sports Center • Decatur Jewelry & Pawn • Decatur Mutual Insurance • Donnie’s Homespun Pizza • Famous Wine & Spirits • First Wok • Fleet Feet • Garcia’s Pizza • It’s Just a Little Prick Tattoo Co. • Jeffrey’s Meat Market • Keystone Gardens & Meadows • Kirkland Fine Arts Center • Krekel's • Kroger • Land of Lincoln Credit Union • Leo H. Berger Insurance • Lock Stock & Barrel • Lyle Campbell & Sons Realty • Macon County Farm Bureau • Mi Pueblito • Millikin University - Alumni House • Mom's Place • Mystic Tan • Pop’s Place • Pride Coin Laundry • Richland Fairview Park Plaza Center • Secret Garden Express • Sound Check Music Center • Speed Lube • Subway • Swartz Properties • Tasty’s Chicago Grille • The Drive-In Antique Mall • The Glass House • The Winery • University Dogs • Wethington Fresh Flowers & Gifts, Inc • Whitestar Home Healthcare Services • Argenta • Gerber State Bank • Village Hall • Blue Mound • Village Hall • Dippin’ Merv’s • P&G Quickstop • Forsyth • Applebee’s • Architectural Expressions • Area 51 Salon • Aspen Dental • Bard Optical • Baymont Inn & Suites • Cohn Furniture • Colee's Corner Drugs • Country Inn & Suites • Coziahr Harley Davidson • Kids N’ Fitness • Old Book Barn • Petals • Quality Inn • Ramada Limited • Roots Salon • Speed Lube • St Mary's Family Medicine • Texas Roadhouse • The Fabric Cobbler • Welcome Hotel & Suites • Harristown • Sanders Harristown Antique Depot • Macon • The Bullet Trap • Maroa • Casey’s General Store • Freedom Gas • Main Street Café • Mt Zion • 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 • Heroic Age Art Studio • Krave • Krekel's • M3 Salon • Mt Zion District Library • Mt Zion Village Hall • Neil Tire & Auto Service • Pizza Hut • Priceless Smiles/ Styles & Smiles • Russ Proesel DDS • Spa Villa • 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 #70 | March 2015 www.thrivedecatur.com

BEHIND THE THRIVE

February Out & About

SPOTLIGHT: Penguin in the Park

Party Crashers' Crash of the Month

ART SPEAK: Immersed in the Arts

Publisher's Pick of the Month

FOOD DUDE: Casa Fuentes

Country Legend Joe Diffie March Events Calendar SpringStock '15 Q&A: Paco Greenwell Spot the Difference Challenge

THRIVE

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04 05 08 09 10 11 12 14 18 28 32 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 following organizations

March 2015 | 03

BEHIND THE

CONGRATS TO OUR February WINNER:

Ellen Hearn

February Answers: 1. Star pattern missing 2. Driftwood branch is shorter 3. Rings on pot are missing 4. Green pot appears 5. Necklace changes 6. Red scarf turns blue

Play the March Contest on p.35

THRIVE

As I write this, Mother Nature’s got her wintry teeth in us good, showing her lioness-like tendencies just so we know who’s boss. Here’s hoping that as you’re reading this she’s doing her Bo Peep impression, tame as a lamb.

Either way we’ve got the good on what’s fun ‘round here, rain, shine, warm or cold!

Start with a night to remember at the American Red Cross’ Heartland Heroes event. If you haven’t heard, they’re putting a little shimmer in their atmosphere with a featured performance from the pick-up man himself, country music star Joe Diffie.

Then later in the month the South rises again at SpringStock '15, showcasing southern music, southern food, fun and drinks – good stuff, y'all.

You can shake off some of the southern fried at Penguin in the Park.

Whether you’re walking or running, shimmy over for a chance to meet the race’s namesake, and whatever you do, don’t miss the post-race party!

Ever-ready to make food our focus (you’re welcome), we’re continuing the theme with Food Dude’s look at Decatur’s newest delicioso destination, Casa Fuentes, and a quick Q&A with Paco Greenwell, the culinary genius behind Paco’s Sol Bistro (the state’s first Delicious Destination award winner, we might add).

Whatever direction you take, fun is never far away!

04 | March 2015

Out & About

A look back at last month’s happenings

Pokemon's Place The Hidden Lair in Mount Zion hosts a Pokemon tournament every Saturday from 11am - 1pm. Players of all ages can bring their own deck or receive a deck when they arrive. Pairings face off during an afternoon full of fun, snacks and prizes. Don't know how to play?

Stop by for training or partner up with an experienced player to learn.

Rock the Woof Rock the Woof 2015, a benefit for Homeward Bound Animal Shelter, was held at the AIW Hall on February 15.

The event featured smooch-a-pooch, a silent auction and live music.

March 2015 | 05

Out & About

A look back at last month’s happenings

Not So Newlywed

The Bob Eubanks Not So Newlywed Game, held on Valentine's Day, featured eight local couples from the audience at Kirkland Fine Arts Center.

Hilarious commentary combined with witty couples created a fun evening full of laughs and prizes!

Blue & Gold Ceremony

Local Cub Scout Packs celebrated Scouting Anniversary Week in February during their annual Blue & Gold Banquets. Cakes were raffled off as a fundraiser for the packs, and individual boys received awards and achievement pins during the ceremony.

PERFORM! Presents 2705 N Water, Decatur Illinois

In-Home Color Consultations Receive a $50 Sherwin-Williams gift card with your $95 color consultation to get you started.

To learn more about color consultations call: 217.876.0108

06 | March 2015

March 13, 14 & 15

Decatur Civic Center Tickets available by calling 429-5911 or online at decatur-parks.org

LHP@Paco's

Love was in the air at Paco's Sol Bistro on February 14 - Valentine's Day - as couples took to the dance floor. LHP (Lourash Hursh Peoples) serenaded the crowd as a few guest performers joined them on stage including a young guitar student.

Speed Dating The Decatur & Macon County Animal Shelter Foundation hosted Speed Dating on Valentine's Day, complete with a Smooch the Pooch booth. People were lined up around the building when the event opened its doors at noon that day. Over 30 animals were adopted to their forever homes thanks to the countless volunteers and staff members.

March 2015 | 07

08

SPOTLIGHT

Making a Run for It

by Rachel Peabody Penguin in the Park 2014 photos: Kim Mangan

An enthusiastic crowd. After starting with 135 participants at the first race 10 years ago, the event is expected to draw a crowd upwards of 950 people.

An awesome post-race party. The good times continue once you cross the finish line. Just make your way over to Millikin’s Griswold Gym Wait, There’s a Penguin? for food, awards and inspirations from this year’s As in John “the Penguin” Bingham, the featured speaker – the man, myth and legend – inspiration behind the event, beloved Millikin John Bingham himself! alum and former Runner’s World columnist who for the past 10 years has supported this annual All for a Good Cause event that gets local running enthusiasts out “All event proceeds are split between the John and moving.

Bingham Millikin scholarship program and Bingham uses the penguin as his personal funding for youth athletic programs at the moniker and brand. Starting his running journey DISC,” says Race Director RJ Podeschi. “Perhaps at age 43, the story goes that during Bingham’s the neatest thing about this race is that it has first run, all bundled up from the January cold, become a way for a Millikin alum to be able to he noticed his reflection and it struck him that give back, and we love seeing the event grow he looked like a giant penguin. Fueled to carry each year.” on with the resolution to get in shape, Bingham Race organizers are also proud of the developed a passion for running and has opportunity to host events like Penguin in the inspired many over the last 20 years to lace up Park that promote health and wellness and their running shoes and give it a try. encourage families, friends and neighbors to get active together by running.

What to Expect An assortment of weather conditions. Over the 10-year history of the event, runners have Get There: experienced frigid, below-zero lows and highs Penguin in the Park 5K Run/Walk in the 70s. Late March weather in Illinois is a bit unpredictable, as we all know too well, but Saturday, March 28, 9 am Fairview Park, Decatur embrace the challenge!

What better way to kick start your running season than a brisk and lively 5K in Fairview Park? Behold the Penguin in the Park 5K Run/ Walk, one of Decatur’s signature running events, welcoming runners and walkers of all ages and speeds. Join the fun on Saturday, March 28, at 9 am.

Get yourself in gear and check out penguininthepark.com to register online.

Rachel Peabody is a freelance writer

08 | March 2015

r u t a DecRASHERS C PARTY

CRASH of the Month Sunday, March 29th

Band Together to Save Oasis

$10, Knights of Columbus Hall [520 E North St] 2-8p. Cash bar, food, live and silent auction.

Music includes Expedition: Lewis & Clark 3-3:45p 360 Band 4-4:45p The Fabulous Hoedads 5-5:45p West End Boogie Project 6-6:45p BAM! 7-7:45p

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

March 2015 | 09

10

ART SPEAK

by Jerry Johnson

Immersed in the Arts—and Loving It I’ve served as the Executive Director of the Decatur Area Arts Council for over three years now. I am so grateful, and often excited, to be where I am. The two biggest reasons are that I am smack dab in the middle of the arts in Decatur and I get to meet and work with many of Decatur’s most enthusiastic and creative people.

Though the arts have always been a major part of my life, as the Executive Director of the Arts Council, I am now totally immersed in it.

I get to stay on top of the latest art exhibits, concerts or theatrical productions. Because the Arts Council’s mission is to increase the access to and impact of the arts in our community, we do what we can to make local art groups thrive. We have long-standing relationships with many of the principal arts groups in town, like the Barn Colony Artists, Gallery 510, Symphony Orchestra Guild of Decatur, Decatur Municipal Band, Theatre 7, Opus 24 and Juvae Jazz Society.

We provide space for them to meet or rehearse, connect them to people with the talent of skills they need or just get the word out that another awesome arts event is happening soon. We get to be a part of it all and, speaking for myself, I think that’s pretty cool.

The really exciting part is that once people learn about how the Arts Council can help, they contact us! They ask if they can talk to us about an idea they have, and the answer is always, “Yes, what’s your idea? Maybe we can help.”

Over the past year or so, the Arts Council has had a wide range of people connect with us. A couple of local actors wanted to stage small one-person shows, so we arranged for them to perform on the third floor of the Madden Arts Center. A local musician wanted to give kids a chance to experience their own rock ’n roll dreams, so we suggested whom he might collaborate with and gave his project a little financial boost, and he made it happen. Two

artists, relatively new to our country, looking for an opportunity to display their talents, were offered an exhibit in the Anne Lloyd Gallery.

Some of the more recent ideas that have crossed our path... A musician wants to open his own music studio. A businessman wants to create a public art project. A festival organizer wants to add other art forms to the event. A community agency wants to create a brand new, creative annual event.

The Decatur Area Arts Council is here to try and help make as much of that happen as possible.

Yes, it’s part of the organization’s mission, but I have to admit that I’m a little selfish when I say that I want to be a part of it all. I want to brainstorm, plan, paint, sing, dance, listen and learn.

You know where to find me.

What’s your idea? Maybe we can help.

photos courtesy of the Decatur Area Arts Council

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

10 | March 2015

ing Back

lcom Join us in We

Publisher's

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

Musee Bath Balms $7 each Tournesol 134 N Merchant St, Decatur

Michael Shultz,‘14 March 6 • 5:00-7:30 pm 117 N. Water Street 217-428-0112 www.millikin.edu/blueconnection

Photo: Kat Smalley

Winter is cold, hot baths are delightful, and Musee bath balms are super-fun!

The Musee company sums it up pretty well online at www.museebath.com.

"Musee bath balms remind us to enjoy the simple pleasures in life that serenade the heart and comfort the soul - good books and long naps, fireflies and bonfires, handwritten letters and unexpected presents, a spring rain or the first snowflake of winter, owls on fences and wise people - and especially....hot baths and cool tunes."

These bath balms are hand pressed with natural ingredients formulated to soothe the soul. Plus, some of them have surprises in the middle!

I picked up one of each available at Tournesol this season which includes: Amazing Grace (wooden cross inside), Happy Birthday (candle inside), Tupelo Honey (made with Mississippi honey), Go to Sleep Baby (with real lavender buds), and Lucy in the Sky (diamond inside).

March 2015 | 11

12

THE FOOD DUDE

by T. F. DUDE

¡Bienvenidos Casa Fuentes!

Nobody likes a “Case of the Mondays,” so to avoid the first-day-of-the-week blues, I asked my fiancé to join me for dinner at Decatur’s newest Mexican restaurant, Casa Fuentes. With a name like that, I immediately thought, “Mi Casa Es Su Casa,” which translates to “My House Is Your House.” Casa Fuentes certainly did feel like a humble abode with its inviting layout, spacious design and warm décor. And lo and beyond, “Mi Casa Es Su Casa” was carved into a decorative wood panel hanging in the foyer.

the Especial Entrees section. Each slice was filled with flavorful bites, and the chorizo only added to the authenticity of the Mexican meal.

After devouring our savory dinner, we somehow managed to find room for dessert. I went for the traditional Mexican custard—Flan. The rubbery texture with its slightly jiggly appearance may be an acquired taste to some, but it was definitely served to perfection. I thoroughly enjoyed this bit of caramelized goodness, which was served cold. Plus, it was topped with my favorite garnishment since childhood, a maraschino cherry. Meanwhile, my fiancé enjoyed the Chango Mexicanos—fried cheesecake. The breading consisted of a fried flour tortilla with cinnamon and sugary sprinkles on top as cheesecake oozed from its insides—sabroso.

The wooden signage proved to be a sign of delectableness to come as the hostess promptly placed a basket filled with freshly baked, colorful tortilla chips along with a perfectly mild side of salsa on our table. A friendly waitress immediately followed, welcoming us to Casa Fuentes, and asked for our drink order. We opted to try Casa Fuentes’ signature drink: The In The Wizard of Oz Dorothy famously said, Cantarito, comprised of Squirt, tequila, two “There’s no place like home…” and for us, Casa limes and a touch of salt. All of the ingredients Fuentes was all that and more! combined proved to be a successful mixture, with smooth and alluring taste.

The menu offered a variety of meal options, catering to any restaurant-goers’needs. I selected the 12” Grande Burrito with steak and chicken sin poblano peppers. The burrito was gigante and smothered in queso blanco—muy delicioso.

My fiancé opted for the Pizza Mexicana—grilled steak, chicken and chorizo with beans—from

Get There: Casa Fuentes Cocina Mexicana & Cantina 2930 N. Main Street, Decatur 330-8004 Find them on Facebook!

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

12 | March 2015

March 2015 | 13

//HAPPENSTANCE// Thrive Photography Coordinator Sarah Jane discovered that the Imaging 2015 conference in Nashville would bring her within minutes of Joe Diffie in concert at the Grand Ole Opry just before our March deadline.

The media team at the American Red Cross went to work and before she knew it, Sarah was face to face with Joe himself, in a fast and furious shoot to bring you this image!

14 | March 2015

Joe Diffie http://www.joediffie.com/music/

American Red Cross event spotlights local bravery Written by Joli A. Hohenstein Joe Diffie Photo by Sarah Jane American Red Cross wanted a way to put a spotlight on the new Heartland Heroes recognized every year for good deeds, when it hit them: Why not bring in one of the Heartland’s favorite sons to serenade local bravery?

On March 7 they’ll do just that, when they feature country music legend Joe Diffie at the Heartland Heroes evening of celebration.

“It’s the first time we’ve ever done an event like this, and it looks like it’s going to be four times the size compared to years past,” says Kim Amsalem, chair of the event and co-chair of the Mid-Illinois Chapter Red Cross Board.







Each year, Heartland Heroes recognizes community members for heroic acts, from collecting food items for the local pantry or shoveling sidewalks for  elderly neighbors to using CPR training to save a life. Heroes are nominated in four categories: youth (under 18); armed forces & public service; good citizen/everyday; and Red Cross volunteer.





Joe Diffie can relate to the drive to recognize humble acts, as he celebrates the extraordinary ordinary in his songs every day. “I worked with

// continued on page 16

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  

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     

// Joe Diffie from page 15 factories, foundries, oil fields,” he says. His songs reflect that everyman nature—he’s the hitmaker behind favorites like Pickup Man, Bigger than the Beatles and Third Rock from the Sun, and his lyrics were recently spotlighted in country star Jason Aldean’s hit 1994.

the most excited. “We go however the spirit leads us at the time,” Diffie says. “John Deere Green seems to elicit the biggest response.”

In fact, just about anyone can find a song to relate to in Diffie’s library—his music continues to touch the hearts of country music fans. “We’re really excited to bring He’s a multi-platinum-selling artist with 13 Joe Diffie to town,” says Kim. “You’d typically albums and more than 20 Top 10 singles to have to travel to a major metropolitan area his credit, but playing the favorites gets him to see an artist of his caliber.”

American Red Cross Heartland Heroes featuring Joe Diffie Saturday, March 7 Tickets are $75 and include cocktail hour, dinner, awards ceremony and concert – tables of 10 are $750. Concert-only tickets - $25 each

2015

thursday march 26 5:00pm

shilling center

learn about

College Costs • Campus life • finanCial assistanCe eduCational expeCtations • dual Credit What’s neW on Campus • sCholarships • degrees • CertifiCates

Who should attend richland icon?

anyone interested in college.

don’t knoW What to do? don’t knoW What to ask?

You Will find the evening a valuable resourCe in planning for College.

For more inFo call 875-7211, ext. 267 richland.edu 16 | March 2015

It’s a testament to Diffie’s popularity, and his draw, but you’d never know it by talking to him. For him, it’s all about the good time.

“If we’re havin’ fun on stage, by and large the audience is havin’ fun, too,” he says.

“People get into it—it becomes symbiotic.”

And the extra is being able to benefit a local charity that’s there when its residents call. The first to respond after fires, floods and storms, Red Cross volunteers are

still deployed in the tornado-ravaged communities of Gifford and Washington, Illinois.

“It’s a nice bonus to go do a show and promote such a worthwhile group,” says Diffie.

GET THERE

Doors open at 5:30 pm with a cash bar available. Dinner begins at 6:30 pm, awards ceremony at 7 pm and concert at 8 pm. Doors for the concert open at 7:30 pm.

Purchase tickets online: www.redcross.org/news/event/il/decatur/Heartland-Heroes. Or call 428-7758, ext. 7478. Tickets are available at Neuhoff Media, 250 North Water Street, Suite 100, Decatur, or mail checks to Heartland Heroes, American Red Cross, 2674 North Main Street, Decatur, IL 62526. Checks may be made out to American Red Cross with “Heartland Heroes” in the memo section.

March 2015 | 17

March Events EVERYDAY March Art in Decatur Each with a unique art exhibit.

Decatur Airport. Decatur Area Arts Council. Decatur Public Library. Gallery 510. MU: Blue Connection. MU: Perkinson Gallery. RCC: Erlanson Gallery.

Rock Springs Nature Center.

Wildflour Artisan Bakery. Various [Decatur] »

Lance Merry Photography (thru 4.30) Explore the detailed images of nature and wildlife photos.

Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org]

Junior Golf Spring Training (thru 3.30) Juniors ages 10-16 . Participants will have their swings analyzed with the V1 coaching software and learn more about rules and course management. $50-60, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, decatur-parks.org] 5:30-6:30p

Little Hoopsters (3.31-5.5) Children ages 5-12 learn new skills each week, focusing on teamwork, dribbling, passing, and shooting. $45-54, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, decatur-parks.org] 5:30-6:30p

Vegetable & Herb-Growing (thru 4.20) Registration required. Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, 620.9077, www. decaturlibrary.org] 5:30p

»

»

»

Magic the Gathering $15, Hidden Lair [320 N State Hwy 121, Mt Zion] 6p

»

SleepyTime Tales (thru 3.24) Storytime for the whole family!

Enjoy stories, crafts, and more!

Mt Zion District Library [115 W Main St, Mt Zion, www.mtzion. lib.il.us] 6:30-7:30p »

Jujutsu Kung Fu Ages 13+. $25-50, Decatur YMCA Ages 13+. $25-50, Decatur YMCA [220 W McKinley] 6:30-8p » » [220 W McKinley] 7-8:30p » Virginia Kickle (thru 4.30) Country Line Dance EVERY WEDNESDAY Take notice of birds and Come join in for a fun evening, ToddlerTime wildlife in nature. Rock and learn to country line dance.

Story time for children 18 Springs Nature Center Knights of Columbus Hall [520 E months to 3 years. An adult must [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, North St, 764.3070] 7-9p remain in the building during maconcountyconservation.org] » » EVERY MONDAY, program. Mt Zion District Library EVERY MONDAY WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, [115 W Main St, Mt Zion, www.

Preschool Activity: FRIDAY & SUNDAY mtzion.lib.il.us] 9:30-10a » Discover Your World (thru 4.6) Pickleball Story Time This class will highlight different $5 (non-member), Free Story time for children 2 and aspects of the world including (member), Decatur YMCA [220 W up. Stories, crafts, and food. Blue nature, animals, and oceans.

McKinley, www.facebook.com/ Mound Memorial Library [213 N Children will take part in hands- DecaturPickleball] 1-3p (Mo & St Marie, Blue Mound, 692.2774, on activities to discover the We), 7-9p (Th), 8:30-10:30a (Fr), www.bluemoundlibrary.lib.il.us] beauties of the world. Children 10a-12p (Su) » 10:45a-12p ages 18 mo-4 yrs. $30-35, » EVERY TUESDAY Decatur Indoor Sports Center Music for Meditation Storytime (thru 4.28) (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, www. (begins 3.11) Storytime for 2-5 year olds decatur-parks.org] 11:15a-12p Lunch time concert. Free, First » includes a craft and snack.

Baptist Church [1320 Arbor Dr, Caregivers must participate.

875.8034, www.decaturfbc.com] Barclay Public Library [220 S 11:15a-12:30p Main St, Warrensburg, 672.3621, » barclay.lib.il.us] 10:30a »

EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY Wine Tastings The Decanter Fine Wines [215 N Main St, 422.9463, www. thedecanterfinewines. com] 4-7p (Fr), 1-6p (Sa)

Tai Chi Maroa Public Library [305 Garfield St, Maroa, 794.3005, www.maroa.lib.il.us] 9-10a

Dice Masters $5, Hidden Lair [320 N State Hwy 121, Mt Zion] 3p

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Karate Ages 5+. $25-50, Decatur YMCA [220 W McKinley] 6:30-8p »

DJ David Lee Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 10p »

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EVERY FRIDAY Holy Family Fish Fry (3.13-3.20) All you can eat – fish, salad and baked potato bar.

Non-alcoholic beverages included. $9 (adult), $7 (high school), $5 (grade school), Free (under 4), Holy Family Catholic School [2400 S Franklin St] 4-7:30p »

Magic the Gathering Casual (5p), Standard Khans of Tarkir (6:30p). $5, Hidden Lair [320 N State Hwy 121, Mt Zion] 5p »

Friday Night Magic Standard-constructed. $6, Board Knight [228 W Main St, 706.5373, boardknight. com] 6:30-11p »

EVERY SATURDAY Pokémon $5, Hidden Lair [320 N State Hwy 121, Mt Zion] 11a »

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Search ALL Macon County entertainment online at www.ThriveDecatur.com

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

D&D Casual EVERY THURSDAY Storytime Board Knight [228 W Main St, 706.5373, boardknight.com] 5-9p For children ages 3-5 and » includes stories, crafts, and more.

YuGiOh An adult must accompany. Mt $5, Hidden Lair [320 N State Hwy Zion District Library [115 W Main 121, Mt Zion] 5p » St, Mt Zion, mtzion.lib.il.us] 10-11a » EDH: Winter League Y-Toddler Time $6, Board Knight [228 W Main (begins 3.19) St, 706.5373, boardknight.com] Structured activities could 6-10p » include arts and crafts, cooking Wine, Beer, and "Pot" Party projects, games and so much Bring your own wine or beer to more. $2 (non-member child), CenterEarth Studio and drink Free (member), Decatur YMCA from our handmade goblets or [220 W McKinley] 10a-12p » mugs. Try your hand at throwing Music Around the Museum a pot and at the end of the Sing along with Michael Scherer evening take home the goblet or and Zach Garrett and tinker with mug as our gift to you. Limited different musical instruments at to 8 people. $28, CenterEarth a new location in the Museum Studio [135 N Henderson St, Mt each week. Great for families Zion, 520.7582] 7-8:30p » with children ages 0-7! Free (with Open Mic admission), Children's Museum Free, Donnie's Homespun Pizza of Illinois [55 S Country Club [126 S Oakland] 9p Rd, 423.5437, www.cmofil.org] » 11:30a-12:15p Pong & Karaoke » Open Gaming Lock Stock & Barrel Come on in and raid our demo [129 S Oakland] 10p » shelf and have some fun. Free, EVERY WEDNESDAY Hidden Lair [320 N State Hwy & FRIDAY 121, Mt Zion] 5p Volleyball » Legacy Pauper Open to players of all skill $6, Board Knight [228 W Main levels. $5 (non-member), Free (member), Decatur YMCA [220 W St, 706.5373, www.boardknight. com] 6-10p McKinley] 8-10p

March Events EVERY SUNDAY Crusader 40K: Escalation League Join us, Knights of the Board, in this epic 10-week escalation league! Games can be played at Board Knight on Mondays, Tuesdays with Dan Ham, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays – whenever tables are available. Sundays will be the official league day. Board Knight [228 W Main St, 706.5373, www. boardknight.com] 12-8p »

Spring Training Baseball & T-Ball Clinic (begins 3.8) Players ages 4-14 are divided into age groups at various skillbuilding stations in the full gym and batting cages. Instructors cover fielding, hitting, throwing, catching and running. Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 1:304:45p

Millikin University Bands Traditional and contemporary music for winds, brass and percussion. Feat. faculty, student » and guest soloists, the university D&D Expedition bands perform music that WPN sanctioned event. Board will appeal to of all ages. Free, Knight [228 W Main St, 706.5373, Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W www.boardknight.com] 3-7p » Main St, 424.6318, www.millikin.

Sunday, 1 edu/kirkland] 4p » Decatur Blaze Monday, 2 vs Soo Firehawks. Decatur Civic High School Band Festival Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza] Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W 11:30a » Main St, millikin.edu] 12:30p » In Like a Lamb Jazz Wild spring weather is arriving!

Lock Stock & Barrel Find out what causes its [129 S Oakland] 7-9p » temperature swings and how extreme weather like tornadoes Wednesday, 4 Book Discussion occurs. Register online by 2.27.

Free, Rock Springs Nature Center We get the books and you read them! Barclay Public Library [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, 672.3621, barclay.lib.il.us] 10:30a 2-3p

of whatever we’ve got at the shop and let’s draft! $15, Board Knight [228 W Main St, 706.5373, www.boardknight.com] 2-7p

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The Ladies Man In an attempt to cover "one, tiny, little, hardly noticeable lie," a sequence of escalating situations » explodes and whirls into frenzied YuGiOh $5, Hidden Lair [320 N State Hwy deceptions, misunderstandings, and mistaken identities. $12-14, 121, Mt Zion] 2p » MU: Albert Taylor Theatre [1184 You Pick Three W Main St, 424.6318, www.

Let’s face it! There are no drafts millikin.edu/kirkland] 2p going on in D-town!! So, let’s get » them rolling again! Pick 3 packs Mary Jo & Tombstone Bullet Pop's Place [4335 W Main St] 3-6p »

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Books Between Bites Harry Truman's Excellent Adventure: The True Story of a Great American Road Trip by Matthew Algeo. Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, www.friendsdpl.org] 12:15-1p »

Wednesday Women Stop in after 5p. New members always welcome. Get your Irish on early! Check us out on FB. RSVP to jccaulkins@aol.com.

Doherty's Pub & Pins [242 E William St, 330.6365] 5p »

Thursday, 5 Open Gaming at Board Knight Bored with nothing to do? Join us for an evening of board game fun! Board Knight [228 W Main, www.decaturgamers.com] 5:30p »

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

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Gabriel Iglesias One of America's most successful stand-up comedians. $25, Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main St, www.millikin.edu] 8p »

3.5-3.30 Salvage & Selvage Fiber artwork by The Fiber Artists Coalition featuring non-traditional, salvaged waste materials. 8:30a-4:30p (Mo-Fr), 10a-2p (Sa). Madden Arts Center [125 N Water, decaturarts.org] »

Friday, 6 Kids Movie School is out early! Join us for a movie and popcorn. Free, Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, 672.3621, barclay. lib.il.us] 1:30p »

First Friday Gallery Walk Visit the three downtown Decatur galleries (Gallery 510, Blue Connection, Madden Arts Center) to see great art, enjoy live music, munch tasty hors d’oeuvres, and sip a complimentary beverage. Meet the artists; thrive on the energy!

Free, Various [Decatur] 5-7:30p »

School Carnival & Spaghetti Supper The Senior Class will be hosting the spaghetti dinner and will also have a dessert auction, and the Junior Class will be hosting the carnival. Dinner: $7 (adult), $5 (student), $5 (seniors), Free (under 4), Decatur Christian School [137 S Grant St, Forsyth, 877.5636] 6-10p »

African Children's Choir Heartland Community Church [3253 N Brush College Rd, 877.9529] 7p »

3.6-3.7 Spring Craft Show Craft and vendor fair. 70+ vendors. Mt Zion Convention Center [1400 Village Parkway, Mt Zion, 864.5424, www. mtzionconventioncenter.com] 7-9p (Fr), 9a-3p (Sa) »

Anything Goes $7 (door), $10 (reserved), St Teresa High School Gymnasium [2710 N Water St] 7:30p »

3.6-3.8 The Glass Menagerie Amanda’s son Tom brings home a gentleman caller for his sister Laura in this touching classic American tale of lost dreams, family bonds and survival. RCC: Shilling Center [One College Park, theatre7.net] 7:30p (Fr, Sa), 2p (Su) »

3.6-3.11 Adopt-a-Pet Art Competition Madden Arts Center [125 N Water] »

Saturday, 7 Pancake Breakfast Lion's Club [1595 W Main St, Mt Zion]

into the frigid waters of Lake Decatur. $75 (min donation), Nelson Park [2475 E Pavillion Dr, 428.9255, www. plungeillinois.com] 12-1p »

Battletech Relaunch Hidden Lair [320 N State Hwy 121, Mt Zion] 2p »

Decatur Big Band Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 3:30p »

Heartland Heroes Featuring Joe Diffie.

Recognizes local heroes and funding for local Red Cross services. $75, Decatur Conference Center & Hotel [4191 US Hwy 36 W, 428.7758] 6:30p »

Jason Bordeaux Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 8-11p »

3.7-3.8 3D Target Shoot 30-target course. $6 (member), $12 (nonmember), Decatur Archery Club [1335 N Country Club Rd, 358.3033] 8a-3p »

Sunday, 8 Bluegrass Music Jams » Bring your instrument, Build a Wren House learn a new tune or House wrens provide safe, simply enjoy the musical organic pest control. Build and talents of our volunteers. take home your own wren Open to the public. Free, house. Register online by 3.6.

Rock Springs Nature Free, Rock Springs Nature Center Center [3939 Nearing Ln, [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcounty maconcountyconservation.org] conservation.org] 1-4p » 10-11a »

Polar Plunge A unique opportunity to support Special Olympics athletes by taking a flying leap – a leap

March 2015 | 21

Search ALL Macon County entertainment online at www.ThriveDecatur.com

American Girl Club Maroa Public Library [305 Garfield St, Maroa, 794.3005, www.maroa.lib.il.us] 6-7:30p

March Events Art in Nature Create unique items using natural materials. Take home your own masterpiece inspired by nature. Register online by 3.6. $2, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 2-3p »

Family Science Sunday: Frozen Join Decatur Science Investigations for fun, handson science stations. Free (with admission), Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, 423.5437, www.cmofil.org] 2-4p »

Magic the Gathering $10, Hidden Lair [320 N State Hwy 121, Mt Zion] 2p

3.10 & 3.12 Weather or Not: Wind Wind is all around us! Explore this unseen force through our senses and fun activities. $10, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 1-2p (ages 3-5, Tu), 9:30-10:30a (ages 1-5, Th) »

Thursday, 12 Book Discussion All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr. Argenta Public Library [100 East Water, Argenta, www.aopld.lib.il.us] 1:30p »

Warmahordes: Highlander Format $6, Board Knight [228 W Main St, 706.5373, www.boardknight. com] 6-9:30p »

Mt Zion Foundation Annual Auction Mirror, mirror on the wall, who will be the most giving of all.

Friday the 13th is the day this will fall. Come one, come all. Silent auction, band, cash bar. Please bring your smartphone in order to participate in mobile bidding. $40, Mt Zion Convention Center [1400 Mt Zion Parkway, Mt Zion, 864.2366] 7p »

Overnight Ghost Hunt Have you ever wanted to spend the night in a haunted location?

Here's your chance! Lincoln Square Theatre [145 N Main, www.newageparanormal.com] 8p-3a »

3.13-3.14 Comedy Hour Carl Johnson with Mike Staney. $10 (adv), $12 (day), Main Hangar Restaurant [910 S Airport Rd, 421.7452, mainhangarrestaurant. net] 8:30p

Book Club The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty. Everyone welcome. » Mt Zion District Library [115 W Tuesday, 10 Main St, Mt Zion, 864.3622, www. » Open Mic Night 3.13-3.15 mtzion.lib.il.us] 6:30-7:45p » with Antone & Friends Perform! Presents Friday, 13 Whether you play an instrument, Fiddler on the Roof sing, or just like to listen, join us. The Best of Books In conjunction with the Presented by Ann Adkesson, It’s a great time for the whole Millikin University Preparatory former librarian for Barclay Public family. Free, Antioch Christian Department, Decatur Youth Library.

RSVP by 3.9.

University of Church [5409 E US Rt 36, Symphony Orchestra and Dr. Illinois Macon County Extension 864.3444, accdecatur.org] 6-9p Neal Smith. $7, Decatur Civic » Office [3351 N Howard Brown Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, Garden Club: Blvd, 877.6042] 12p » 422.5911, decatur-parks.org] 2p Conservation or Wildlife (Sa & Su), 7p (Fr & Sa) Illinois Raptor Center»[5695 West Rock of Ages » Timbuktu [5843 E State Rt Hill Road] 6p The Glass Menagerie » 36, www.roaband.com] Amanda’s son Tom brings home 8:30p-11:30p » a gentleman caller for his sister Laura in this classic American tale of lost dreams, family bonds and survival. RCC: Shilling Center [One College Park, theatre7.net] 7:30p (Fr & Sa), 2p (Su) »

Noah & the Back Alley Blues Pop's Place [4335 W Main St] 3-6p

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You will step off the concrete and back into nature. Register online by 3.13. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcounty conservation.org] 2-3p »

Kids Club Animal Friends Doodles the Dragon, Granny Giggles and the Gary Strong Marionette Show. Concessions, live entertainment, old time movies, classic cartoons and prizes. With a focus on pet adoption, children are asked to bring photos of their pets for a special prize. $4 (adult), $1 (child), Fletcher Park: Recreation Center [400 S Henderson St, Mt Zion, 864.5424] 2p

Animal Crackers: You Eat What?

Children ages 3-5 will learn about the food chain and that some animals eat only plants, some only eat meat, and some eat both. They will also tour the zoo's diet kitchen and help a zookeeper prepare an animal's lunch. $9-10, Scovill Zoo [71 S » Country Club Rd, 421.7435, www.

Saturday Standard decatur-parks.org] 9:30-10:15a & $5, Hidden Lair [320 N State Hwy 11-11:45a » 121, Mt Zion] 2p » Dulcimer Club Who Said That?

Bring your instrument, learn a Bird Songs of the Midwest & new tune or simply enjoy the Exploring Nature in Illinois musical talents of our volunteers.

Bird Study (2p). Exploring Open to the public. Free, Rock Nature in Illinois: Birds, Blooms Springs Nature Center [3939 and Butterflies (2:30p). Learn Nearing Ln, maconcounty about Illinois's prairies, lakesides, conservation.org] 10a-12p » river bottoms, and woodlands.

Run to LSB Refreshments served. Decatur Lock Stock & Barrel Public Library [130 N Franklin, [129 S Oakland] 10:45a www.decaturlibrary.org] 2p »

Book Discussion We get the books and you read them! Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, 672.3621, barclay.lib.il.us] 11a »

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Annual Chili Night Fundraiser Come and enjoy a bowl or two of chili and fun. Silent auction, raffles. Decatur Gun Club [61 Faries Parkway, 855.1027] 5-7p

St Patrick's Day Parade » Environmental Film Marching bands, leprechauns, and lots of green. Free, Downtown Series: Cowspiracy Limited seating. Fresh popcorn Decatur [853.6361] 11a » and drinks available for purchase.

Family Fun: Nature Walk Free, Unitarian Universalist After winter enjoy a relaxed Fellowship of Decatur [3773 N family walk through the woods.

MacArthur] 7p »

Karaoke DJ Jeff spins your favorite songs to sing! American Legion 105 [1535 Legion Dr, 423.1411] 7-11p »

Smash Brothers Project M $10, Hidden Lair [320 N State Hwy 121, Mt Zion] 7p »

LHP Paco's Sol Bistro [237 N Main] 830-1130p. »

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3.14-3.15 Home, Lawn & Garden Show Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, 422.6161, www. decaturciviccenter.org] 10a-6p (Sa), 11a-4p (Su) »

Sunday, 15 Destination Forsyth!

Burnout show at noon.

Coziahr H-D [150 W Marion Ave, Forsyth, coziahrhd.com] 12p »

Pork Pie & The North End All-stars Pop's Place [4335 W Main St] 3-6p »

Couples/Singles Dance Band: BAM! $10, Knights of Columbus Hall [520 E North St, 875.3090, dancingdates.com] 5-8p »

Chris Himmel Elwin United Methodist Church [1260 W Elwin Rd, Elwin] 6p »

Homecoming Gospel Choir Maranatha Assembly of God [555 W Imboden Dr] 6p »

Search ALL Macon County entertainment online at www.ThriveDecatur.com

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

Saturday, 14 Open House Come in and try our new Xercise Lab classes. Try our pools, wellness center or indoor walking track. This is a great time to see why the Y is so much more! Open to the public. Free, Decatur YMCA [220 W McKinley] 8a-1p

March Events Woodcock Courtship: A Magical Dance The American Woodcock has a unique mating dance. Uncover their habits on an evening hike.

Ages 10+. Register online by 3.13.

Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 6:30-7p

Millikin Men St Patrick's Day Concert Free, MU: Richards Treat University Center [1184 W Main St, www.millikin.edu] 6p »

Thursday, 19 Book Club Black Girl/White Girl by Joyce Carol Oates. Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, www. decaturlibrary.org] 1p

3.20-3.21 The Sound of Music Garfield Montessori production. $5 (student), $7 adult. Hope Academy [Auditorium, 955 North Illinois St] 7p »

Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson Rock musical tells the story of America's seventh president, who invented the Democratic » Party, doubled the size of our » Game Night at Mancino's nation, and signed the Indian Monday, 16 Pizza & Grinders Removal Acts that started Cooking Show We will be playing games the Trail of Tears. A blend of Includes recipes for you. Take based upon the theme, Worker outrageous comedy, anarchic notes, ask questions, and enjoy Placement Games. Feel free to theatricality and infectious emo a full meal. Space is limited. bring any game that fits the rock. $12, Pipe Dreams Studio Mari-Mann Herb Farm [1405 theme, or try something new!

Theatre [1099 W Wood St, Mari-Mann Ln, 429.1555, Mancino's Pizza & Grinders [2805 424.6318, www.pdtheatre.com] www.marimann.com] 6-8p N Main, www.decaturgamers. » 7:30p » com] 5:30p Jazz » Saturday, 21 Lock Stock & Barrel Friday, 20 Pancake Breakfast [129 S Oakland] 7-9p MU Softball » $6 (adult), $3 (child 5-12), Free Stephen Decatur Rose Society Double Header (3p & 5p) vs. (under 5), Our Lady of the Holy Open to the public. Topic: University of Wisconsin-Eau Spirit Catholic Church [400 West rose pest identification and Claire. Borg Warner Sports Woodland Lane, Mt Zion] 7-11a control. Free, Firehouse #1 Complex [2201 S Rt 51, athletics. » Maple Syrup Programs [1415 N Water St] 7p millikin.edu] 3p » » Discover how maple syrup is Tuesday, 17 Family Night Live's Kids Only produced from sap. We’ll tap Garden Club: Parents, do you need a date a tree, collect sap, and boil it Reflections on Water night? Drop your kids off and down over an open fire. Register Multimedia show demonstrating go have some fun. We will online by 3.20. Free, Rock Springs the importance of water to all provide all kinds of activities Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, life. First Lutheran Church [250 for your children and also have 423.7708, maconcounty West Decatur St] 11a (meeting), pizza and snacks. Free, Antioch conservation.org] 8a-12p 12p (lunch), 1p (program) » Christian Church [5409 E US Rt » LEGO Club 36, 864.3444, www.accdecatur.

MU Baseball For boys and girls of all ages! org] 6-8p vs. Washington University. » Includes story, snack, and Sunnyside Park [1590 N Family Fun Night creative play. Blue Mound Sunnyside Rd, athletics.millikin.

Free (member), $5 (prospective Memorial Library [213 N St edu] 5p member), Decatur YMCA [220 W » Marie, Blue Mound, 692.2774, McKinley] 6:30-8p » www.bluemoundlibrary.lib.il.us] 9:30-11a »

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Taste of Mt Zion Mt Zion Convention Center [1400 Mt Zion Parkway, Mt Zion, mtzionchamber.org] 11a-2p »

Party Crasher Bash Doc McStuffins, Jake, Ninja Turtle, Elsa will be attending for meet and greet with children. Vendors, games and crafts. Reserve your spot by 3.16.15. $10, ASP n More [2926 N Oakland St, 358.5228] 12-3p »

SpringStock 2015 Southern music, southern food, fun, and drinks. Featuring Corey Stevens and Davina & the Vagabonds. Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, 422.6161, www. decaturciviccenter.org] 7p »

RUNA with special guest: Socks in the Frying Pan RUNA offers a contemporary, refreshing approach to traditional and more recently composed Celtic material. $5 (school age), $15-25 (adult), Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main St, 424.6318, www.millikin. edu/kirkland] 7:30p

MU Baseball » Double Header (1p & 4p) vs.

Dragons of Tarkir Dominican University. Sunnyside Hidden Lair [320 N State Hwy Park [1590 N Sunnyside Rd, 121, Mt Zion] » athletics.millikin.edu] 1p » MU Men's Golf Jerry's Jaunts Red Tail Run Golf Course [520 W Discover native spring Grove Rd, athletics.millikin.edu] » wildflowers and photography 3.21-3.22 techniques on a hike with local Little Blue photographer Jerry Sievers.

Basketball Camp No registration required. Free, Directed by Coach Matt Rock Springs Nature Center Nadelhoffer and the MU Men's [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, Basketball Team, players in maconcounty grades K-6 learn new skills in conservation.org] 2-3p » this two-day camp focusing on KirkOut: Theatre Works teamwork, dribbling, passing, Free, Decatur Public Library and shooting. $42-50, Decatur [130 N Franklin, 424.6318, www.

Indoor Sports Center (DISC) millikin.edu/kirkland] 2p » [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, 10th Annual Soup Supper decatur-parks.org] 12-2p » Price includes a sample of each 3.21-3.23 soup plus a bowl of your favorite State Dart Tournament soup, dessert, and a beverage.

Decatur Conference Center & Tickets available at the door. $6 Hotel [4191 US Hwy 36 W] » (adult), $4 (children 6-12), Free (5 and under), Christ United Methodist Church [1503 N Summit] 4-6p

Sunday, 22 Native American Games Construct and play a Native American game, which you can take home to share with friends and family. Ages 5-12.

Register online by 3.20.

Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcounty conservation.org] 2-3p »

Return of the Bling Launch Weekend $5, Hidden Lair [320 N State Hwy 121, Mt Zion] 2p »

Illini United Junior High Volleyball Club Tryouts Register at the DISC by 3.20. $20, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 2:30-5p »

Alex Jenkins & The Bombers Pop's Place [4335 W Main St] 3-6p »

State of Grace Elwin United Methodist Church [1260 W Elwin Rd, Elwin] 6p »

Tuesday, 24 Non-Fiction Book Club Partners of Fortune in the Making of the New South

by Michele Gillespie.

Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, www. decaturlibrary.org] 1p »

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March 2015 | 25

Search ALL Macon County entertainment online at www.ThriveDecatur.com

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

Paint Like Me Party-Kids Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, 672.3621, barclay.lib.il.us] 10:30a

March Events

who invented the Democratic Party, doubled the size of our nation, and signed the Indian Poly Clay Art Faux Antique Poly clay pendants Removal Acts that started shows students how to sculpt a the Trail of Tears. A blend of outrageous comedy, anarchic gorgeous costume pendant or pin using polymer clay and glass. theatricality and infectious emo Ages 12+. $17 (person), Fletcher rock. 12, Pipe Dreams Studio Theatre [1099 W Wood St, Park: Recreation Center [400 S Henderson St, Mt Zion, 864.5424] 424.6318, www.pdtheatre.com] 7:30p (Th & Sa), 11:55p (Fr) 6:30p »

3.24 & 3.26 Weather or Not: Rain Get ready to get a bit drippy! Discover how rain is important to both plants and animals. Ages 1-5. $10, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 9:30-10:30a (ages 1-5, Tu), 1-2p (ages 3-5, Th) »

Thursday, 26 Lady Palooza Mt Zion Convention Center [1400 Mt Zion Parkway, Mt Zion] 4-8p »

Warmahordes: Highlander Format $6, Board Knight [228 W Main St, 706.5373, www.boardknight. com] 6-10p »

3.26-3.28 Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson Rock musical tells the story of America's seventh president,

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Friday, 27 The Leonas and Mt. Thelonious Original indie folk music. $7, Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe [256 W Main] 8p »

Frog Music Hike Venture into the darkness!

You’ll search for many species of frogs by sight and sound.

Bring your flashlight to scope for shining eyes! Register online by 3.26. $3 (person), $10 (family), Griswold Conservation Area [9896 Meridian Rd, Blue Mound, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 9-11p »

MU Baseball vs. Wheaton College. Sunnyside Park [1590 N Sunnyside Rd, athletics.millikin.edu] 6p »

3.27-3.28 Comedy Hour Todd Thomas with Christie Stedman. $10 (adv), $12 (day),

Main Hangar Restaurant [910 S Airport Rd, 421.7452, mainhangarrestaurant.net] 8:30p

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3.27-3.29 Bowl for Kids' Sake Spare Time Lanes [2870 N Jasper, www.bbbscil.org] 5:30-10p (Fr & Sa), 1:30-3:30p (Su) »

Saturday, 28 Friends of Argenta Breakfast Donation, Old Grade School [275 N Kenwood St, Argenta] 7:30-10a »

Penguin in the Park A race for the speedy and for those who want to take their time and enjoy the course! $23 (before 3.1), $25 (3.1-3.25), $30 (after 3.25), Fairview Park [1455 W Fairview Park Dr, penguininthepark.com] 9a »

Dulcimer Club Bring your instrument, learn a new tune or simply enjoy the musical talents of our volunteers.

Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, maconcounty conservation.org] 10a-12p »

MU Men's Tennis vs. Greenville College. Fairview Park: Tennis Center [1640 W Monument Hill Dr, athletics. millikin.edu] 10a »

LEGO Club For boys and girls of all ages! Includes story, snack, and creative play. Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, 672.3621, barclay. lib.il.us] 10:30a »

Easter Egg Hunt At Illini Park. Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, 672.3621, barclay. lib.il.us] 1p »

Karaoke DJ Jeff spins your favorite songs to sing! American Legion 105 [1535 Legion Dr, 423.1411] 7-11p

MU Softball Double Header (1p & 3p) vs.

University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Borg Warner Sports Complex [2201 S Rt 51, athletics. millikin.edu] 1p

Prairieland Punishers Roller Derby Bout Double header. Backlash vs McLean County Miss Fits, All-stars vs. Twin City -Plan B. Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, punishersderby. com] 7p

»

»

Wildflower Walkabout Bring your hiking boots and binoculars to Sand Creek Conservation Area. We’ll scour the forest floor for beautiful native wildflowers. Register online by 3.27. Free, Sand Creek Consevation Area [4314 S Franklin St, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 1-3p

»

Fabulous Hoedads (55:45p), West End Boogie Project (6-6:45p), BAM! (7-7:45p). $10, Knights of Columbus Hall [520 E North St] 2-8p

»

Maurice John Vaughn Blues Band Pop's Place [4335 W Main St] 3-6p »

Mark & Pam Fisher Elwin United Methodist Third Shift Church [1260 W Elwin Rd, Pop's Place [4335 W Main St] 9p-1a Elwin] 6p »

»

Sunday, 29 MU Women's Tennis vs. Dominican University.

Fairview Park: Tennis Center [1640 W Monument Hill Dr, athletics.millikin.edu] 1p

»

Monday, 30 Jazz Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 7-9p »

3.30-4.3 Spring Break Camp » Out Like a Lion Take a break from the Dragons of Tarkir Mountain lions no longer cross classroom and step into $10, Hidden Lair [320 N State central Illinois, but they once the sunshine! Ages 6-12 Hwy 121, Mt Zion] 2p » lived in this area. Discuss how can make crafts, play Walk with Jesus + human activity impacted this games, and do plenty Easter Egg Hunt species. Register online by 3.28. of outdoor activities.

Free, First Church of the Nazarene Free, Rock Springs Nature Center Bring a sack lunch. Dress [1177 W Hickory Point Rd, [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, for hiking and weather.

875.0616, firstnazarene.org] 3-5p maconcountyconservation.org] Register online for one » 1:30-2:30p day or all five by 3.27.

MU Men's Tennis » $25, Rock Springs Nature Tour the vs. Fontbonne University.

Center [3939 Nearing Ln, Oglesby Mansion Fairview Park: Tennis Center 423.7708, maconcounty Tour the restored home of Illinois [1640 W Monument Hill Dr, conservation.org] Governor Richard J. Oglesby. athletics.millikin.edu] 4p » 8:30a-4:30p » Encounter the lives of family Chris Himmel Tuesday, 31 members, discover their late Decatur Sunnyside Seventh Day MU Men's Tennis nineteenth-century lifestyle, Adventist [530 N Sunnyside Rd] vs. Illinois College. and soak up its architecture. $2 7p » Fairview Park: Tennis (donation), Oglesby Mansion Environmental Film Series: [421 W William, 429.9422, www. Center [1640 W GMO OMG Monument Hill Dr, oglesbymansion.org] 2-4p » Limited seating. Fresh popcorn athletics.millikin.edu] Band Together and healthy drinks available for 3:30p to Save Oasis purchase. Unitarian Universalist Cash bar, food, live and silent Fellowship of Decatur [3773 N auction. Music includes MacArthur] 7p » Expedition: Lewis & Clark (33:45p), 360 Band (4-4:45p), The »

Search ALL Macon County entertainment online at www.ThriveDecatur.com

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

MU Baseball vs. Wheaton College. Sunnyside Park [1590 N Sunnyside Rd, athletics.millikin.edu] 1p

Bourbon street hits decatur SpringStock ’15 Showcases Southern Music

Not able to make it down to the Big Easy for Mardi Gras this year? Or maybe you aren’t ready to explain to the kids what Mommy (or Daddy – hey, I don’t judge!) had to do to get all of those cool, colorful beads? Well, worry not, as the Decatur Civic Center is ready to bring Bourbon Street to you for this year’s annual minimusic festival, SpringStock.

The event, which is in its second year, will be held on Saturday, March 21, with doors opening at 7 pm and first musical act beginning at 8 pm.

Last year’s SpringStock focused on the Bluegrass genre, with artists Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band and Harpeth Rising making appearances.

Of course, this event is family-friendly, so don’t expect parades, fancy costumes or other adultthemed activities that just cannot be mentioned here! Rather, what you can expect is something far more simple – good ol’ fashioned Southern music (and eats).

“First we decided what we wanted the theme of the show to be, which we’ll do every year,” says Tyler. “And then we figure out the artists who fit that theme.”

According to Tyler Smith, marketing, sales, and event manager for the Civic Center, this year’s attendees will be exposed to a healthy dose of Southern blues, rock and jazz.

Once the Civic Center’s marketing staff chose this year’s theme, they were able to decide on

Davina and the Vagabonds photo from http:// davinaandthevagabonds.com/

Corey Stevens www.youtube.com/user/CoreyStevensBlues Davina and the Vagabonds www.youtube.com/user/DavinaVagabonds

28 | March 2015

written by beth DeBouck

two extraordinary musical acts: Corey Stevens, a local musician who hails from Centralia, and Davina and the Vagabonds, a five-member jazz/ blues band that’s toured across the US, Canada and Europe.

With eight albums under his belt, Corey Stevens has been touring nationally since his first album, Blue Drops of Rain, was released in 1995. Corey’s official website (coreystevens.com) says his musical talents range from “being a blues-based rock singer and an amazing songwriter to a skilled guitarist.” Inspired by rock music since an early age, Corey’s music shares a likeness to artists such as Jimi Hendrix, Albert King, Buddy Guy and Muddy Waters.

// continued on page 30

Corey Stevens

photo from http://www. coreystevens.com/photos

March 2015 | 29

// springstock continued from page 29

The band’s website (davinaandthevagabonds. com) describes their shows as being filled with “New Orleans charm, Memphis soul swagger, dark theatrical moments that evoke Kurt Weill and tender gospel passages.”

Of course, people who already appreciate the culture and variety of Southern music should definitely check out SpringStock 2015, but what about those who don’t know Chuck Berry from Chuck Norris?

My advice: Check these two acts out online if you need convincing. They’re awesome!

Despite my own musical preferences, which swing toward obscure British-Alternative-Indie bands, I’ve always had an appreciation for all genres of music (Confession: One of my favorite songs in the world is The Animals’ “House of the Rising Sun” – just ask anyone who’s ever gone with me to the Lincoln Lounge on karaoke night).

Davina and the Vagabonds photo from http:// davinaandthevagabonds.com/

30 | March 2015

GET THERE

From a little bit of rock, we transition to jazz and blues with second opening act Davina Sowers and the Vagabonds. Vocalist Davina Sowers has been compared to iconic singers like Etta James, Janis Joplin and Billie Holiday. The band has influences ranging from Fats Domino and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band to Aretha Franklin and Tom Waits. If you listen to their track, “Sunshine,” you could almost swear you’re hearing the late, great Amy Winehouse crooning.

It took me paying a visit to both artists’ websites (and YouTube channels) to realize just how talented and truly unique they are. But, as LeVar Burton of Reading Rainbow used to say, “You don’t have to take my word for it.”

However, if you’ve been in Decatur long enough, you know that this city has seen some tremendous musical acts pass through thanks to special events like SpringStock, Decatur Celebration and this year’s Heartland Heroes celebration featuring Joe Diffie. (Editor’s note: featured on page 15.)

It’ll be a good night to spend quality time with friends while listening to some genuinely good music. Or, if you’re frightened by your pre-teen’s attachment to Justin Bieber, maybe a chance for an introduction to something new?

Besides getting a taste of Southern rock, you’ll also be treated to a taste of Southern food. The catered event will serve Jambalaya and red beans & rice, y’all. A “surprise” cocktail is also in the works, and its concoction will be related to the theme of the evening.

Tickets are $18, but discounted tickets ($2.25 off each ticket) are available to those who reserve a table of eight. You can purchase tickets by visiting decaturciviccenter.org or calling the Box Office at 422-6161.

SpringStock Saturday, March 21 Southern Music | Southern Food Fun | Drinks Doors open at 7 p.m.

First musical act begins at 8 p.m.

FOR TICKETS decaturciviccenter.org 217.422.6161

March 2015 | 31

32

THRIVE Q&A

PACO GREENWELL

Most unexpected thing to do in Decatur Shooting pool at the Sundown Lounge.

What surprises people most about Paco’s Ryan (l) and Paco (r) Greenwell. Photo: Sarah Jane

When Decatur native Paco Greenwell received the state’s first Delicious Destination award for his creative cuisine at Paco’s Sol Bistro, we THRIVE-ers weren’t the least bit surprised. But it did get us thinking, if you create a destination, you must have some talent for sussing out the best destinations around. We asked Paco to share his secrets.

Favorite guilty pleasure in Decatur Chicken wings from Aloha.

Most requested food to add to the menu Chicken tacos.

Favorite Decatur date night plan Sushi at Fuji.

Favorite Decatur place to chill with friends when you’re not at Paco’s The Winery if we are out but mostly at our house. We entertain a lot.

32 | March 2015

The diversity of the menu.

We always knew Paco’s was a Delicious Destination.

How’s it feel now that the Illinois Office of Tourism made it official?

It is very surreal. The fact that others would choose us to represent not just Decatur, but the state, is amazing. The best part is how proud our staff is. If I had one goal when we started this business, it was to give people a place to work that they could be proud of.

The award truly validates all of their hard work and dedication.

Seriously, what’s the secret behind those amazing jalapeno cornbread muffins, not to mention the strawberry butter?

Good try, but I can't give you the secret to those. I will say that the recipes to both are very simple. When I came up with the idea, it was meant to be a two-bite preview of what our food was really all about. Fresh ingredients with a sweet and spicy flavor.

C’mon, throw us a bone: What’s the next thing coming to Paco’s menu?

I don't have anything finalized but I am working on a new Asian-inspired dish. That is all I can say.

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Join us for

Music Around the Museum Thursdays from 11:30-12:15 starting in March!

Sing along with Michael Scherer & Zach Garrett and tinker with different musical instruments at a new location in the Museum each week.

Great for families with children ages 0-7!

This introductory month is free with admission.

Learn more on our website: CMofIL.org.

55 S. Country Club Rd. 217-423-KIDS CMofIL.org March 2015 | 33

Do you want to start your own business?

What’s your idea?

Mary Jo & Tombstone Bullet - Sun, Mar 1, 3-6p Noah & The Back Alley Blues - Sun, Mar 8, 3-6p Pork Pie & The North End Allstars Sunday, March 15, 3-6p

SCORE can help with FREE business counseling.

CONTACT US TODAY!

Alex Jenkins & The Bombers - Sun, Mar 22, 3-6p Maurice John Vaughn Blues Band Sunday, March 29, 3-6p Third Shift - Sat, Mar 28, 9-midnight

34 | March 2015

1184 W. Main Street Decatur, IL 62522 217-424-6297 www.decatur.score.org

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2 WAYS TO WIN:

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

Thrive Online at www.ThriveDecatur.com Search ALL Macon County entertainment, and find just what you're looking for!

www.ThriveDecatur.com Your guide to events in Macon County, Illinois