March 2017 Thrive Entertainment Guide

S P O T T H E D I F F E R E N C E C H A L L E N G E : S l o a n's C a l z o n e s

STAND UP FOR YOGA AT THE DAC Richland’s Culinary Arts Institute Makes Good Food Entertainment

FREE

Mar 2017

SPOTLIGHT// Decatur Brew Works Trivia Nights FOOD DUDE// Chinese Tea Garden ART SPEAK// After School Art with the Masters Q&A// Nathan Pierce - Macon County History Museum

02 | March 2017

#B E H I N D THE

THRIVE

It was a dark and stormy night, and Stephen Decatur sweated through his uniform as he suffered under the relentless questioning of what was surely the toughest interview he’d ever undertaken… OK so an interview with THRIVE’s writing team isn’t quite so high-pressure.

You don’t even have to be a great gumshoe to join our glorified ranks.

For those who imagine a partially darkened room with only a bare bulbed-spotlight in your face, the only sound the low scratch of a tape recorder capturing your every move and breath… it’s much simpler than that, and we’re so much more low-key! In fact, the age of technology has taken so much pressure off of today’s writers.

The five W’s (who, what, when, where, why) still reign supreme—after all, they’re the building blocks of any great story. But much of what we do can be snapshotted in a phone interview, a casual in-person sit-down, or if all else fails, an e-mail (though we eschew its lack of emotion).

Make no mistake—no less planning goes into today’s storytelling, and we writers have no less curiosity than the Sherlocks of yore; we’re just more efficient about how we get the words on the page. So when you read about SUP yoga, Richland’s creative culinary escapades, trivia at Decatur Brew Works or our fair city’s not-sosecret gem Chinese Tea Garden, remember, no subjects were harmed in the interviews for these stories, not even a little bit.

If you'd like to write for Thrive shoot an email to editor@thrivedecatur.com #behindthethrive issue #94 | March 2017 | www.thrivedecatur.com Cover image by Stephanie Gagnon

Macon County events at www.thrivedecatur.com Events submitted by the 10th of the month are considered for inclusion in the next print edition of the Thrive Entertainment Guide.

THRIVE is a free, monthly entertainment guide serving as your guide to events in Macon County.

Published by Showcard Studio and distributed to over 300 locations in Macon County on the first of the each month.

PO Box 6195 • Decatur, IL 62524 217.791.5653 @THRIVEDecatur Publisher: Katrina Smalley publisher@thrivedecatur.com The Eventor: Stephanie Zimmerman events@thrivedecatur.com

IN THIS ISSUE

SUBMIT + SEARCH

BEHIND THE THRIVE

February Out & About

SPOTLIGHT: DBW Trivia Nights

FOOD DUDE: Chinese Tea Garden

ART SPEAK: Afterschool Art

PUBLISHER'S PICK

Stand Up for Yoga at the DAC

Richland's Culinary Arts Institute

Q&A: Nathan Pierce - MCHM

Spot The Difference Challenge

March EVENTS

02 05 08 10 12 13 14 18 28 32 35

Editor and Senior Writer: Joli Hohenstein Copy Editor: Teena Zindel-McWilliams Photography Coordinator: Sarah Jane Contributors: Jenny Shields Cowgill Beth DeBouck T.F. Dude Kim Mangan Angela Myers Katie O'Riley Robin Walters Photographers: Sarah Jane Stephanie Gagnon Kim Mangan Robin Walters Layout Design: Showcard Studio Printing: Dynagraphics/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.

04 | March 2017

THRIVE

is created and printed locally, in Decatur, IL.

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.

Out & About

A look back at last month’s happenings

Love in Bloom Just in time for the Valentine's Day holiday, Pier 1 Imports hosted Love in Bloom, a floral arrangement how-to event. Participants were entered into a gift card raffle and were given an opportunity to engage with Pier 1's floral experts.

Ninja Training

Mount Zion District Library kicked off Bedtime Math's Crazy 8s Club on February 8. The first week's theme was Ninja Training. Kids learned how to be a ninja by sneaking through shapes made by a maze of yarn "laser beams." This club meets weekly through the end of March.

Call or stop in to join the fun!

March 2017 | 05

Out & About

A look back at last month’s happenings

Stories Within a Story

February's First Friday Gallery Walk featured local photographer Kathy Locke at the Decatur Area Arts Council.

Kathy Locke's exhibit featured photographs of families who participate in one of Baby TALK's 12 local programs including KinderMusic, Come Sign With Me, and Foundations. The exhibit was on display for the whole month of February.

Argenta Icefest

February 11, the Argenta IceFest brought fans from all around the world for a one-of-a-kind winter experience. The event featured carvings by Olympic Gold Medalist Aaric Kendall and his team of fellow carvers, a vendor fair, wine tastings and ice games.

06 | March 2017

Women for Women

The South Side Country Club hosted a fundraiser for Dove, Inc. on February 3. Women for Women, Shopping for a Cause brought local vendors together, offering great deals while collecting funds and supplies for Dove, Inc.

Spelling Bee Spellers from across Macon County gathered for the District-wide Spelling Bee at Richland Community College on February 15. Nine regional qualifiers will move on to the State level competition, but on this day Rabya Hasnain has been named County champ.

Science Entrepreneurship Ken Myszka, Owner of Epiphany Farms Hospitality Group, was the guest speaker at Millikin University's Institute for Science Entrepreneurship Speaker Series in early February. Prior to the public speaking event, Epiphany Farms provided a farm to table dinner for special guests of the university.

March 2017 | 07

08

SPOTLIGHT

by Katie O'Riley

Drink While You Think!

Decatur Brew Works Presents Trivia Nights Just a few months after opening its doors in early 2016, Decatur Brew Works (DBW) started hosting Trivia Nights. The idea was formed by the DBW team and their beer buddies, as May 4 was approaching, and what better way to celebrate Star Wars Day (May the 4th Be With You)? A night dedicated to drinking beer and playing against others in a trivial pursuit about Star Wars, of course! Since then, the trivia nights have been a hit within the community.

DBW hosts two trivia nights a month, every other week on Tuesday evenings. If you want to participate, make sure you get there early because the brewery fills up fast! Starting this year, every other trivia night is General Trivia, where there is no particular theme, and questions can come from a variety of different categories or genres. Teams consist of two to four members, and the entry fee is usually one beer per team member. Teams can earn points throughout the year and can participate in the end-of-the year tournament.

On the second trivia night of the month, the brewery hosts a themed trivia. The themes come from general pop culture, and past events have included Game of Thrones, Gilmore Girls, Friends, Indiana Jones, Seinfeld and a very popular Harry Potter night!

Do they get any requests? “Absolutely!” says Micah Koll. A brewer and DBW co-founder, Micah says the trivia nights have been a huge success. Anyone can volunteer to host the event, especially if the person is an avid fan and 08 | March 2017

knowledgeable on the topic. The questions are made up by researching the topics and rewatching the television series or movies.

Brian Bell, a regular at the brewery, says he enjoys participating as much as he enjoys rewatching the different series to develop questions to host an event. His advice to those who have yet to attend a trivia night is just to go. It’s an opportunity to test knowledge, drink some good beer, have fun with friends and maybe make a new friend or two.

Of course it’s not a contest without a prize! Prizes can vary from Decatur Brew Works merchandise to something like memorabilia related to the theme that evening.

Not a big beer drinker? No problem. They offer meads, ciders, Belgians and wheats, with over two dozen taps to choose from. Make sure to follow Decatur Brew Works’ Facebook page so you don’t miss the next trivia night! They post all of the events, and you can invite your friends to join in on the fun. It’s an opportunity for anyone to visit Downtown Decatur, try some delicious beer and meet crazy fans and unite (and maybe dispute) over their favorite topics!

GET THERE Decatur Brew Works Trivia Nights Two Tuesdays per month 101 N Main St, Decatur, 330-8683 facebook.com/decaturbrewworks Katie O'Riley is a freelance writer based in Forsyth.

Rotten EaStEr EgG HuNt ApRiL 7 • 6:30 p.m.

ScOvIlL GoLf CoUrSe BaNqUeT FaCiLiTy

Be a kid again! This adults-only event includes music, pizza, adult beverages, games, an optional Easter basket contest, and an outdoor hunt with thousands of eggs redeemed for cash prizes, gift cards, and more!

Registration deadline is April 6, unless sold out.

Get your tickets early!

429-3472 oR dEcAtUr-pArKs.oRg

Campus Visit Nights Health Professions night

March 20 - 5:30pm

Career Ready Programs Night

March 21 - 5:30pm

Schrodt Health Education Center

Mueller Student Center

(Main entrance next to the flag pole)

Transfer Programs night

March 23 - 5:30pm Mueller Student Center

(Main entrance next to the flag pole)

chooserichland richland.edu/visit

10

THE FOOD DUDE

As the owner will tell you, the Chinese Tea Garden has been around for a “long, long time” and even made an appearance in the movie The Informant!. Forget Matt Damon. Yes, you too can sit in the same booth as Quantum Leap’s Scott Bakula.

Lately, I’ve been going to lunch here just about every week. I’ve become a pusher, too, always trying to bring along friends who haven’t been yet. In The Food Dude’s opinion, the best things about this place are that it’s cheap, it’s fast, big portions, friendly owners, free cookies and relaxing atmosphere.

Not many restaurants can provide filling lunch portions for under $5, but you can get it here.

Most of the specials are priced right around $4.50, and there are 45 from which to choose.

by T. F. DUDE

Besides the entrée, the meal includes an egg roll, fried rice and a cup of egg drop soup. ALL FOR UNDER $5.

And guess what? It’s good! The egg drop soup isn’t nearly as oily or heavy as you might find elsewhere. It’s light and simple, a great starter. I get hot tea ($1.50) because it adds to the soothing experience. Traditional Chinese instrumental music plays through the speakers. Decorations are Chinese-inspired, and there’s wood paneling on the walls. It’s not the interior you’d expect based on the outside.

The day I went with friends, I ordered Garlic Chicken ($4.49). The chicken is sautéed in a garlic sauce with broccoli, bamboo shoots, onions, carrots and snow peas. You get a large serving of fried rice and an egg roll that is so good when dipped in either the (what I call) spicy mustard sauce or the sweet ‘n’ sour sauce.

I don’t necessarily consider this a turn off to any establishment, but keep in mind that if you go, Chinese Tea Garden is cash only. That should be easy given you can get a meal and a drink for about $7 + tip. They also offer dinner specials, most of which are under $10. You can eat in or do take out. Enjoy!

GET THERE: CHINESE TEA GARDEN 105 N. Main St., Decatur (next to Decatur Brew Works) 429-9621 Monday-Friday: 11 am-9 pm Saturday: 12-9 pm

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

10 | March 2017

FLY DECATUR

travel plans?

Mary Jo Curry Band Sun, Mar 5, 3-6p Johnny Vodka Sat, Mar 11, 9p-1a King T'z Sun, Mar 12, 3-6p Joey Tenuto Band Sun, Mar 19, 3-6p Lady Luck Sat, Mar 25, 9p-1a David Lumsden and Friends Sun, Mar 26, 3-6p

Take off and travel from Decatur Airport, your link to great destinations!

Featuring daily flights to Chicago O’Hare and Lambert-St. Louis International on Air Choice One. Free parking, roomy seats, and prices so low, you can’t afford NOT to fly!

Call 1-866-I-FLY-VIP to schedule your trip today!

March 2017 | 11

ART SPEAK

Grab Your Paintbrushes for Afterschool Art with the Masters

Need more art? Well, the Decatur Area Arts Council has you covered! The arts can have a profound effect on learning and mental health, and most kids and parents would say they don’t get enough of it in school. Whether due to time or budget constraints, art is often infrequent or absent in many schools, and that’s where afterschool arts programs fill a need.

A new series at the Decatur Area Arts Council, Afterschool Art with the Masters, gives kids and adults the chance to explore a wide variety of materials, cultures and artists as they look at art, talk about it, learn new techniques and vocabulary and create their own masterpieces.

Students can try out clay, papier maché, printmaking, weaving, painting and collage in classes led by highly qualified teachers.

These projects may span several days and take several steps, offering artists the time they need to create substantial works of art.

All materials are included, but they are also inexpensive enough and easily obtained so students can explore the project or techniques further after the end of the class. Our goal is to help people find their passion in art so that their experience goes far beyond our studio walls.

by Jenny Shields Cowgill We have an exciting lineup of projects for our Afterschool Art with the Masters series this spring, including a mix of famous artists we all know as well as new artists working today. Art techniques like weaving, papier maché, collage and clay building give students the chance to learn techniques that can be used to inspire them to branch out and let their imagination push them to create new and exciting works of art with their own unique style.

As you can see, we have something for everyone: • Contemporary French artist Mélanie Bourlon’s charming papier maché busts of realistic animals • Hand-built clay cottage or castle candle holder or container • Pop artist Andy Warhol printmaking • Japanese design concept, notan, the art of paper cutting using light and dark and positive and negative shapes • Modern artist Henri Matisse painting and collage • Wall weaving or bag or satchel using a variety of yarns and textile materials Our afterschool series appeals to adults as well as kids, so don’t think you have to be in school to participate. In fact, any one of these would be a perfect parent/child class, and multi-generational arts experiences can be rewarding for everyone! We also have scholarships available for those who may need financial assistance.

GET THERE: AFTERSCHOOL ART WITH THE MASTERS 8 week series (ages 8-adult), Tuesdays through April 18, 4-5:30 pm, Fee: Members $96/Non Members $112 Decatur Area Arts Council 125 N. Water Street, Decatur, 423-3189 decaturarts.org, facebook.com/DecaturArts

Jenny Shields Cowgill is Education Coordinator for the Decatur Area Arts Council.

CC image courtesy of J. Michel Carriere on Flickr

12

Publisher's

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

Harley-DavidsonÂŽ Women's Notch Neck Tee $31.99 Coziahr Harley-Davidson 150 W Marion Ave, Forsyth

New or Used Vehicle Loans from Earthmover

The first rule of Harley-Davidson merch is you don't have to own a Harley!

I usually get caught up in the front half of the showroom with all the cool bikes when I stop by Coziahr, but now I know what I'm missing. I should start by saying this awesome jersey tee photo is a little misleading. In reality, there are TONS of awesome tees—not just this one. They are back with the jackets, gloves, hats, sunglasses, boots, home decor, glassware, purses, wallets, kids clothes and really just about everything else you could think of. Don't have a Harley yet? Well, maybe you'll have one someday so start getting geared-up now!

March 2017 | 13

STAND UP FOR YOGA AT THE DAC

SUP Yoga challenges with yoga, water and paddleboards

By Beth DeBouck How about an exercise routine that isn’t so routine? In January, the Decatur Athletic Club (DAC) began offering SUP Yoga classes every Wednesday night. SUP yoga is yoga performed while standing up on a paddle board. Numerous SUP yoga classes are established across the country, some of which take place on lakes, rivers or oceans.

“Standing on the water is a great vantage point to observe nature and wildlife,” says Abi McIntosh.

Abi is the DAC’s SUP Yoga class instructor, a certified personal trainer and co-owner of Standing Paddle Co., which opened this past summer on Lake Decatur. She’s been practicing yoga for eight years and stand-up paddle boarding for five, and she teaches at The Studio Yoga (www. thestudioyogadecatur.com). It was a SUP yoga class she took on Lake Michigan that inspired her to want to teach her own class.

“From a health standpoint, it is wonderful for core engagement,” she says. “It works all of your small stabilizing muscles and is effective as low-impact cross training for any other sport.”

After hearing about Standing Paddle Co., the DAC reached out to Abi about offering a SUP yoga class locally. But how does it work? Instead of being on the lake, you’ll be in a pool. Six paddle boards are lined up in the center lane and secured on both sides to two lane dividers. Of course, being secured doesn’t mean you might not faceplant into the water (as happened the night I attended), but for the most part you’ll be relatively stable on top of your board. During the 45-minute class, Abi leads you through various poses, starting with warm-ups and ending with a relaxing cool down.

“You don’t have to be proficient in yoga or in SUP to enjoy a SUP yoga class,” she says. “I try to offer amplifications for more advanced participants and modifications for those that need to take it down a notch or two.” As in, if you can’t do a full plank (like a push-up), you can always go down on your knees.

MORE ON PAGE 16

Photos by Stephanie Gagnon

March 2017 | 15

SUP YOGA FROM PAGE 15 On the evening I went to observe, Decatur resident Cristina Greenwell was one of the more flexible participants. She would be, though, as she’s been a yoga enthusiast for four years and is also an instructor. Cristina, who’s taken Abi’s Buti Sculpt class before, says she signed up for SUP Yoga because of the challenge it adds to practicing yoga and the way it helps to increase stability.

If you would like to sign up, you’ll need to call the DAC on Tuesday morning to reserve a board for Wednesday evening’s class. If the class is already full, you’ll be added to a waitlist.

“I would dare people to try something new,” says Abi. “If you are always on the treadmill, in the weight room, in the studio, swimming laps – try some variation to your routine. You might like it.”

It’s recommended you wear something comfortable that dries quickly, so either a swimsuit or yoga pants and a tank top. Cost is $15 for non-members and $10 for members.

Also, if you’re interested in kayak and SUP rentals this summer, Standing Paddle Co. (www.facebook.com/standingpaddleco) is planning to open again in May at Nelson Park.

GET THERE: SUP YOGA Wednesdays 6:45-7:30 pm Decatur Athletic Club 1010 W South Side Dr, Decatur 423-7020 decaturathleticclub.com facebook.com/decaturathleticclub

Beth DeBouck is a freelance writer based in Decatur.

16 | March 2017

MILLIKIN UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF THEATRE & DANCE

By Teresa Rebeck Thursday, March 23, 7:30 PM Friday, March 24, 7:30 PM Saturday, March 25, 2:00 & 7:30 PM Sunday, March 26, 2:00 PM

After their mother's death, two estranged half-sisters discover a book of rare stamps that may include the "crown jewel" for collectors. In this gripping tale, a seemingly simple sale becomes dangerous when all the characters are willing to do anything to claim the rare find as their own.

TICKETS: $10 - Kirkland Box Office West Towne SPEC 1099 W. Wood St.

millikin.edu/theatre

U P C O M I N G AT K I R K L A N D F I N E A RT S C E N T E R

WOMEN OF IRELAND Saturday, March 11 • 7:30 pm

Women of Ireland is not just another Irish dance show! Join us as Ireland's leading female performers showcase the next generation of Irish & Celtic music, song, and dance. The outstanding dance and vocal content of the show is superbly augmented with a fervent fiddler leading the vastly talented instrumentalists, and an awesome aerialist. This magnificent show features an-all female lineup of today’s leading Irish step dancers, including lead dancers from Riverdance and Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance. Women of Ireland brings together all the most adorned elements associated with Irish & Celtic music. Lovers of Celtic music and dance are in for a special treat when Women of Ireland takes to the stage!

Tickets: $30 - $50 School Age: $5

217.424.6318 • kirklandfinearts.com

March EVERY DAY March Art in Decatur EXHIBITS: Each location with a unique art exhibit. Specific dates and times determined by each location. Blue Connection [117 N Water St], Decatur Airport [910 S Airport Rd], Decatur Area Arts Council [125 N Water St, 423.3189], Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin St], RCC: Erlanson Gallery [One College Park], Gallery 510 [160 E Main St, 422.1509], MU: Perkinson Gallery [1184 W Main], Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln], Wildflour Bakery [256 W Main] Times Vary

Country Line Dance Come join a fun-filled evening, meet new people and learn to country line dance. $6, Knights of Columbus Hall [520 E North St] 7-8p (Class), 8-9 (Dance) EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY Baby Talk Times Babies, toddlers (birth to 3) and their parents/caregivers meet for conversations, playtime, stories, fingerplays & songs. Free, DPL: Children's Auditorium [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, decaturlibrary. org] 10a (Th), 6p (Tu)

Adult Coloring Night Coloring pages, colored pencils, crayons and markers, light refreshments and background music provided! Ages 18+.

Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, 424.2900, decaturlibrary.org] 5-7p Karaoke Stop by early for dinner and stay late for karaoke. Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland, 424.4344, donnieshomespun.com] 9p

WEDNESDAY, 1 Chamber Business Breakfast EVERY TUESDAY-SATURDAY $15 (adv/member), $20 (door/nonmember), The Decatur Club [158 W Aviation Exhibit Features the Moody Brothers, who Prairie, 422.2200, decaturchamber.

OUTDOOR ART INSTALLATIONS: broke the endurance flight record com] 7-8a Scovill Sculpture Park [71 S Country in 1939. History of the Decatur Club Rd], Commodore Steven Airport, a section on the 106th Books Between Bites Decatur Mural [145 S Water St], Aviation National Guard unit in A Great Reckoning by Louise Penny, Decatur Staley & Chicago Bears Decatur, and prominent pioneers Speaker: Rosemarie King-Grindy.

Mural [111 E Main St], Bob Marley in aviation from the area as well as Free, DPL: Madden Auditorium Mural [702 Eldorado St] military pilots. $2, Macon County [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, History Museum [5580 North Fork, decaturlibrary.org] 12:15-1p EVERY MONDAY 422.4919, mchmdecatur.org] 1-4p Monday Night Fun Run Wednesday Women 1- and 3-mile fun run/walk.

EVERY WEDNESDAY Tis time for the wearin' of the Visibility gear required. Free, Fleet green. Join John Hawkins for an Open Mic Night Feet Sports [1090 W Wood St, Jam session with Woody Clements, evening of food & fun! Bring a fleetfeetdecaturil.com] 4-5p friend or come alone and make Bill Cunningham and Mike Lewis. some new ones! RSVP jccaulkins@ VFW Post 99 [3915 N Cowgill St] Barn Colony Artists (thru 3.20) aol.com. Doherty's Pub & Pins 7-10p 3.6 - Jim Spaniol, presentation [242 E William St] 5-9p on composition. 3.13 & 3.20 EVERY THURSDAY Mike Delaney, watercolor; bring Storytime Member+Event: watercolor supplies. Decatur Area Why They Call Me Chef Maroa Public Library Arts Council [125 N Water] 7-9p [305 Garfield St, Maroa] 10-11a Presented by Brian Pehr. Learn about the difference between a chef and a cook and the journey to those titles. Free light refreshments.

Free, Decatur Area Arts Council [125 N Water, 423.3189, decaturarts. org] 6:30-7:30p

18 | March 2017

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

Ukulele Jam A limited number available to borrow during the jam. Decatur Brew Works [101 N Main St, 330.7376, rmd522@yahoo.com, decaturbrewworks.com] 7-9p

Connection (Madden Arts Center) and Gallery 510 (160 E. Main St).

Artists speak at 6pm (Madden Arts Center) and 6:30pm (Gallery 510).

Madden Arts Center [125 N Water, 423.3189, decaturarts.org] 5-7:30p

3.1-3.3 President Grant's Visit to Decatur For school children. Free, Oglesby Mansion [421 W William, 877.0879, williamhorton979@hotmail.com, oglesbymansion.org] 10a

Soul Purpose VFW Post 99 [3915 N Cowgill St] 8:30-11:30p

THURSDAY, 2 MU Institute for Science Entrepreneurship Speaker Series Dr. James Wade, Medical Oncologist and Founder, Cancer Care Specialists of Illinois. Open to the public, no tickets or reservations required. Free, MU: Richards Treat University Center [1184 W Main St, 424.6392] 7:30-9p FRIDAY, 3 Music at the Museum Dancing, singing, learning about beat, tempo, and rhythm, and making instruments to create music at home. Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, childrensmuseumofil.com] 1010:45a

3.3-3.4 Mt Zion Spring Craft Show 70+ vendors. Concessions by the Kitchen of Doris Yoder. Free, Mt Zion Convention Center [1400 Mt Zion Parkway, Mt Zion, 864.5424, mtzion.com] 7-9p (Fr), 9a-3p (Sa) 3.3-3.5 DYHA's Tournament of Friends Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, 620.4803, decaturciviccenter.org] SATURDAY, 4 Hangover Run 1- & 3-mile run followed by donuts & drinks. Fleet Feet Sports [1090 W Wood, 330.9904] 8a Illini United Minis Volleyball League Begins Grades 1-6 learn and improve basics during practices and tournament-style games. Times vary by age. Saturdays thru April 22. $130, DISC [1295 W Wood, 422.5911, decatur-parks.org] 9a-3p

Customer Appreciation Day Samples from Decatur Brew Works, Reinstone Brewery and The Decanter Fine Wines & Spirits. Door prizes. Shoe and bike reps available.

2-mile brew run (6p) Fleet Feet Maple Syrup Programs Sports & Spin City Cycles [1090 W Tap a tree, collect sap, and boil it Wood, 330.9904] 4-8p down over an open fire. Sample real maple syrup. Register online

by March 3. Programs held 10am, First Friday Gallery Walk 11am, and noon. Free, Rock Springs Evening of varied art, live music, tasty hors d'oeuvres and beverages. Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708] 10a-1p Anne Lloyd Gallery and Blue

PUBLISHER'S PICK Decatur Polar Plunge

SATURDAY, 4 Support Special Olympics athletes by taking a flying leap - a leap into the frigid waters of Lake Decatur. Attire: Anything but a wet suit.

Shoes are recommended and costumes are encouraged.

No head-first diving is allowed! Beach House [2301 E Lakeshore Dr, 355.1750, soill.org] 12p Sign Language Club Learn basic sign language.

Everyone welcome. Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, barclay.lib.il.us] 10-11a Theatre 7 Game Night Enjoy Cards Against Humanity, Trivia, Uno, Pie in the Face and other games or bring your own.

BYOB and a finger food to share.

3rd Floor. Free, Theatre 7 [131 N. Water, theatre7.net] 4-7p Bluesmattic Blues Band Free, Feeling Lucky [3775 N Woodford] 4-8p 4th Annual Culinary Cookoff Evening of entertainment and great food as we watch Team Richland compete against Team Good Samaritan Inn. $30, Decatur Conference Center & Hotel [4191 US 36 W, 429.1455] 6-8p

March Environmental Film Series Emptying the Skies. Refreshments available. Discussion following.

Free, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Decatur [3773 N MacArthur Rd, Uufd.org] 7-9p Masterworks IV Shostakovich's Symphony No. 15 (his last) is a surreal exposition where nothing is quite as it seems.

Features winners from Young Artists Competition. $13-16.50, Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main, millikin.edu/kirkland] 7:30p Rock of Ages VFW Post 99 [3915 N Cowgill St] 8:30p-12a SUNDAY, 5 Recovery Yoga Free, Fleet Feet Sports [1090 W Wood, 330.9904] 12p Rock Club Meeting Open to the public! Children welcome and activities available.

Free, Clare's Restaurant [2502 E William St, 433.9585, rmkapta.wix. com/cigmc] 12p (lunch), 12:30p (meeting), 1p (program)

Mary Jo Curry Band Pop's Place [4335 W Main, 330.6546] 3-6p Wind Ensemble Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main, millikin.edu/kirkland] 4-6p MONDAY, 6 Calendar Kids Preschool Activity: Lucky Leprechaun Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with fun games and crafts! Children ages 2-5 play a golden coin toss game, make a marshmallow shamrock stamp, a pot 'o gold rainbow chain, and a shamrock man. Eat green Jell-O as a snack! $7, Johns Hill Center [601 S Jasper, 422.5911, decatur-parks.org] 10-10:40a Cookie Decorating with Ms. Alicia Make cut-out cookies with homemade icing and decorate them. Of course, enjoy what we created! Ages 6+. $12, Fletcher Park: Recreation Center [400 S Henderson St, Mt Zion, 864.5424, mtzion.com] 10-11:30a

TUESDAY, 7 Lacrosse League Begins Ages 7-18 compete in the Central Illinois Lacrosse League (CILAX).

Practices held during the week (Tu, Th), with games played on Spring Training Baseball Saturdays and Sundays. Times & T-Ball Clinic Begins vary by age/gender. South Shores Get ready for baseball season!

Park [429.3472, decatur-parks.org] Fielding, hitting, throwing, catching 5:30-7:30p and running. DISC [1295 W Wood, 422.5911, decatur-parks.org] 1:302:30p (ages 4-6), 2:45-4:45p (ages 7-14)

20 | March 2017

WEDNESDAY, 8 Movies @ the Library!

Classic - William Shakespeare's Julius Caesar. Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, 424.2900, decaturlibrary.org] 5:30-8p THURSDAY, 9 Grand Opening Free, Made By Me [231 N Main St, 330.6184, madebyme231@gmail. com] 8a-5p Book Club The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom. Argenta Public Library [100 E Water, Argenta] 1:30-2:30p Postiche Grand Opening Meet Decatur's newest spa and skincare service provider and best choice for wash and wear wigs! Postiche [2604 N Main St, posticheforyou.com] 5-7p Prairieland Friends of NRA Annual Fundraiser Banquet Guns, prizes, and dinner. $30-300, Infusion Bar & Banquet Center [2882 N Dinneen St, 706.7306, info@plfnra.com] 5:30-9p Open Gaming Bring a game you'd like to share, or join someone else in their game! Board, card, and dice games welcome! All are welcome to attend, so bring a friend! The Decatur Club [158 W Prairie, facebook.com/thedecaturgamers] 5:30-9:30p Millikin Men Irish/Celtic Salute Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main, millikin.edu/kirkland] 6 & 7:30p

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

West End Boogie Project VFW Post 99 [3915 N Cowgill St] 7-10p FRIDAY, 10 Pokemon Go Family Event Come play Pokemon Go, trade cards and do all sorts of fun Pokemon Go activities! Make your own little Pikachus and other arty activities, play Pokemon games with prizes like bingo, Pictionary and trivia, buy handmade Pokemon goods at the craft booth, watch videos, eat Pokemon-themed food and more! Activities for all ages, even teens and adults! $20, Decatur Area Arts Council [125 N Water, 423.3189, decaturarts.org] 5-8p Pizzazz VFW Post 99 [3915 N Cowgill St] 8-11p 3.10-3.11 Stand Up Comedy Ages 21+ Eric Scott & headlined by Brian Aldridge. $10 (adv), $12 (day of ), Main Hangar Restaurant [910 S Airport Rd, mainhangarrestaurant. net] 8:30-10p SATURDAY, 11 "Egg"stravaganza Craft & Vendor Bazaar Unique crafted items and direct sales to choose from, including baked goods and cookie walk.

Breakfast and lunch served. Decatur Wesley United Methodist Church [3800 E Cerro Gordo St] 8a-3p Friends of the Library 2nd Saturday Book Sale Book Sale Room. Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, 424.2900, decaturlibrary.org] 9:30a-12:30p

Dulcimer Music Enjoy live music. Free, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 10a-12p Yoga at the Brewery Guided by Chuck Beck. $15 (pint/flight) with yoga, Decatur Brew Works [101 N Main St, decaturbrewworks.com] 10:3011:30a Run to LSB Starts near the courthouse, LSB holds a special post-race party for all racers with free green beer and food! Pre-registration only. $30, Downtown Decatur [Merchant St] 10:45a-12p EVENTOR'S FAV! St. Patrick's Day Parade

Spirits of the Prairie Guest speaker Inge Henderson shares a slideshow presentation about her hike on the Appalachian Trail. Register online by March 10.

Free, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 2-3p Heroes in Training $5 (member), $10 (non-member), Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd] 6-8p Women of Ireland Join us as Ireland's leading female performers showcase the next generation of Irish & Celtic music, song, and dance. Lovers of Celtic music and dance are in for a special treat! $30-50, $5 (school age), Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main, 424.6318, millikin.edu/ kirkland] 7:30-9:30p Pizzazz Port Royal Gastropub [2880 N Oakland] 8:30p

SATURDAY, 11 Downtown Decatur 11a-12p Kids Club: Star Wars Bring your Star Wars collectibles for a display. Games, two classic cartoons, music, a puppet show and two grand prizes. Preschool-6th. $1 (child), Fletcher Park: Recreation Center [400 S Henderson St, Mt Zion, fpkidsclub. wixsite.com/mtzionil] 2-4p

West End Boogie Project VFW Post 99 [3915 N Cowgill St] 8:30-11:30p Johnny Vodka Pop's Place [4335 W Main, 330.6546] 9p-1a Bones Jugs: Live Americana Jug Band!

Frank Zappa meets Spike Jones; it's Looney Tunes meets Nintendo.

Seriously silly. It's a party. It's for dancing, for listening, for enjoying.

It's for everyone. $5, Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland, 424.4344] 9p (doors), 10p (show)

March

MONDAY, 13 Storybook Adventure Preschool Activity: Pete the Cat & His Four Wreckless Whiskey Band Groovy Buttons $5, Lock Stock & Barrel Children ages 2-5 spend the [129 S Oakland] 9p morning on an adventure with their friend Pete the Cat! Activities Escaping Neverland Sliderz [5995 E Route 36] 9:30p-12a include listening to the story, decorating a shirt cutout with buttons, and playing a button 3.11-3.12 stack game. Enjoy tasty "button" Home, Lawn & Garden Show cookies. $7, Johns Hill Center [601 S Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary Jasper, 422.5911, decatur-parks.org] K Anderson Plaza, 429.0774, 10-10:40a metrodecaturhomebuilders.com] 9a-6p (Sa), 11a-4p (Su) TUESDAY, 14 Mini Camp: Beavers SUNDAY, 12 Children ages 3-5 with an adult Bluegrass Music Jam buddy learn about beavers Bring your instrument to play or through stories, activities, and just enjoy the music. For all ages. outdoor exploration. Check out Free, Rock Springs Conservation beaver fur, teeth, and even a log Area [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, chewed by this aquatic plant eater. maconcountyconservation.org] Register online by noon on March 1-4p 13. $6, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, Mini-Market Basket Weaving Learn the basics of basket weaving, maconcountyconservation.org] 9:30-10:30a filling a base, start/stop weaving, rimming, lashing and inserting a Graphic Novel Club handle. Ages 12+. $22, Bonnie's City of Glass by Paul Karasik & David Baskets [2330 S 70th Street, Mazzucchelli. Free, DPL: Staley 864.5424, mtzion.com] 1-4p Room [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, decaturlibrary.org] 6:30-7:30p King T'z Pop's Place [4335 W Main, Trivia Night 330.6546] 3-6p See Facebook for details. Cost to play is purchase of liquid Just Flicks: Sherpa Refreshments provided. Discussion refreshment at Decatur Brew Works.

Decatur Brew Works [101 N Main follows film. Central Christian St, 330.8683, decaturbrewworks.

Church [650 W William] 6-8p com] 7-9p

22 | March 2017

WEDNESDAY, 15 Mini Camp: Beavers Children ages 1-5 with an adult buddy. Register online by noon on March 13. $6, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 9:30-10:30a Adult Bingo Free, Fletcher Park: Recreation Center [400 S Henderson St, Mt Zion, 864.5424, mtzion.com] 10-11a Movies @ the Library Drama - Ides of March. Free, DPL: Madden Auditorium [130 N Franklin St, decaturlibrary.org] 6-8:30p The Decatur Vegetarian Society Please bring a vegetarian or vegan dish to share (with ingredients written down) and your own table service and drink. Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, 424.2900, decaturlibrary.org] 6-7p THURSDAY, 16 Book Club Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J. D. Vance.

Free, DPL: Board Room [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, decaturlibrary. org] 1-2p Disney Night Disney-themed food, drinks, games, trivia, prizes, and special guests who are visiting and taking pictures. Adult Disney drinks along with kid-friendly beverages available and you can participate in Disney Trivia for a chance to duel with other Disney super fans. Seating limited. $12.99 (adult), $7.99 (4-10), Free (3 and under), Main Hangar Restaurant [910 S Airport Rd, 421.7452, mainhangarrestaurant.net] 6-8p

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

Not in My Garden!

Learn about what invasives may be lurking in your backyard and what you can and should do about.

Registration required by March 14. Free, U of I Extension, Macon County [3351 N President Howard Brown Blvd, 935.5764, mille116@ illinois.edu, go.illinois.edu/dmp] 6-8p

FRIDAY, 17 Music at the Museum Dancing, singing, learning about beat, tempo, and rhythm, and making instruments to create music at home. Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, childrensmuseumofil.com] 1010:45a

Pre-K Art Adventures: Kandinsky Musical Watercolor Paintings Outside the Lines Adult Coloring Club Get ready to get messy! Story, games, hands-on stations, art Just color, chat, and relax! Barclay projects and snack based on Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, barclay.lib.il.us] 6-7p famous works of art. Ages 2-5, Parent must accompany child. $15 Our Resources - Where to Use Them, (members), $17 (non-member), Decatur Area Arts Council [125 N How to Share Them Water, 423.3189, decaturarts.org] Join us for a look at the complex 10-11:30a and controversial issue of school funding and learn about what you can do to advocate for your Movies @ the Library community. The evening features Documentary - March of the a short keynote from State Senator Penguins. Free, DPL: Madden Andy Manar (District 48), followed Auditorium [130 N Franklin St, by small-group discussions and decaturlibrary.org] 2-5p a closing assembly, all of which will focus on school funding St Pats Day Party from statewide policy to its local, Corned beef and cabbage, everyday impact. Stephen Decatur green beer, beads, drink specials, Middle School [1 Educational Park] giveaways. Pizzazz Band 6-10.

6:30-7:30p Feeling Lucky [3775 N Woodford] 3-10p Stargazing 101: Part 1 Discover how easy it is to find PUBLISHER'S PICK constellations and planets in the Macon Speedway Car Show night sky. Participants receive a star finder to guide them through the night sky. Discover some useful field guides to the universe. A brief PowerPoint program followed by stargazing outdoors. Dress for the weather. We meet cloudy or clear.

Ages 10+. Register online by March 15. Free, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, 3.17-3.19 maconcountyconservation.org] Drivers and teams 6:30-7:30p throughout Central Illinois are ready to show off their newly painted rides. Free, Hickory Point Mall [1146 Hickory Point Mall, Forsyth, 764.3000, maconracing.com] 10a-6p

3.17-3.19 Decatur Park District's Perform! presents Guys and Dolls Actors in grades 1-12! $8 (adv, reserved), $10 (door, reserved), Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, 422.5911, decaturparks.org] 7p (Fr, Sa) & 2p (Sa, Su) SATURDAY, 18 Basic Fermentation Learn the science behind the fermentation process for preserving foods and juices and how to make a simple wine and ginger ale soda.

Samples of ginger ale provided. $10, U of I Extension, Macon County [3351 N President Howard Brown Blvd, 877.6042, go.illinois. edu/dmp] 8:30-10:20a Cheese Making Cheese is a popular food to eat and cook with. Learn how milk is turned into cheese, and try your hand at making fresh mozzarella. $15, U of I Extension, Macon County [3351 N President Howard Brown Blvd, 877.6042] 8:30-10:20a Clean to Bling Spring Fling Join us for shopping, prizes, food, games and more! Decatur Masonic Temple [224 W William St, 433.8365, facebook.com/clean2bling] 9a-3p Birds of a Feather Join a naturalist for a bird identification hike. Learn about a variety of bird species and their songs. Dress for the weather.

Register online by March 17.

Free, Ft Daniel Conservation Area [7977 Fort Daniel Rd, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 10-11a Backyard Bees How to get started raising bees, the clothing and equipment needed, building a hive, collecting honey plus common bee diseases and pests. After this taste of honey making, you can decide if you're ready to enter the world of beekeeping. $5, U of I Extension, Macon County [3351 N President Howard Brown Blvd, 877.6042, go.illinois.edu/dmp] 10:30-11:20a

Search ALL Macon County events at www.ThriveDecatur.com

March

Prairieland Punishers Roller Derby Bout Come and enjoy an evening Home Hydroponics of family-friendly, hard-hitting Hydroponics, a method of growing derby action. Home vs Cedar plants in water instead of soil, is Rapids Roller Girls. Decatur Civic becoming increasingly popular Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, for growing food indoors. Learn punishersderby.com] 5-10p how easy making an at-home hydroponic system can be, how Environmental Film Series hydroponics works, the materials Unbranded. Fresh popcorn and needed to build a system and the healthy drinks available. Discussion maintenance required. Participants following film. Free, Unitarian make their own system to take Universalist Fellowship of Decatur home. $10, U of I Extension, Macon [3773 N MacArthur Rd, 875.5442, County [3351 N President Howard Uufd.org] 7-9p Brown Blvd, 877.6042, go.illinois. edu/dmp] 10:30a-12:20p It's a Concert! It's a Dance!

When you add Ron Stockert you Wee Bit O' The Irish Tea Party can dial it up a notch! This is always A lovely program about Irish in a fabulous night of music! $5, America and what it was like to VFW Post 99 [3915 N Cowgill St, be in service in an upper class 358.9273, thefabuloushoedads.

Victorian home. Light refreshments com] 8-11:30p and traditional English tea served.

Limited seating. Registration 3.18-3.19 required. Barclay Public Library [220 Little Blue Basketball Camp S Main St, Warrensburg, barclay.lib. Players ages 5-13 learn new skills il.us] 11a-12p focusing on teamwork, dribbling, passing, and shooting. $50, DISC Preserving Food: Dehydration [1295 W Wood, 422.5911, decaturDried foods are a common snack parks.org] 10a-12p and ingredients in cooking.

Whether from your garden or SUNDAY, 19 foods you bought, learn about Preschool Peepers: ways to dry fruits, vegetables and Symbols of Our State meats safely in this lecture-style Did you know that school lesson. Samples of different dried children chose most of our foods available for tasting. $5, U of state symbols? Take a look at I Extension, Macon County [3351 the natural history of Illinois N President Howard Brown Blvd, through symbols like the state 877.6042, go.illinois.edu/dmp] bird, mammal, and amphibian.

11:30a-12:20p Register online by March 17.

Free, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 2-3p

24 | March 2017

Joey Tenuto Band Pop's Place [4335 W Main, 330.6546] 3-6p Couples & Singles Dance Keep ballroom dancing alive with a live band! Our house band, BAM! can play almost any song requested. $10, Knights of Columbus Hall [520 E North St, 875.3090, gui.dance.jwl@gmail. com] 5-8p Cheer Tumbling Begins Learn cheers, jumps, and tumbling in a fun, safe environment. Basic skills including arm motions, jumps, dance movement, cheers and basic tumbling skills. Build confidence and teamwork. Held on Mondays. $42, DISC [1295 W Wood, 422.5911, decatur-parks.org] 5:45-6:45p TUESDAY, 21 Garden Club Meeting Spring Fling by designer Rae Roberts-Griffith. Economical, everyday designs. Reservations due

by March 10. South Side Country Club [1650 Cottage Dr, facebook. com/gardenclubofdecatur] 9:30a (business meeting), 11a (social time), 11:30a (program), 12:30p (lunch) WEDNESDAY, 22 DPL Film Noir Club The Big Heat (1953). Directed by Fritz Lang starring Glenn Ford, Gloria Grahame, Lee Marvin, and Jeanette Nolan. Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, 424.2900, decaturlibrary.org] 5-8p

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

THURSDAY, 23 Cocktails & Creations: Painted Cups on Canvas Use vibrant acrylics to paint simple patterned cups. Don't forget your snacks and cocktails! Adults only. $17 (members), $20 (non-member), Decatur Area Arts Council [125 N Water, 423.3189, decaturarts.org] 6-8p Faculty Recital Join ISU and MU faculty members Tuyen Tonnu, David Collier, Chung-Ha Kim and Jeremy Brunk for a performance of Bartok's masterpiece: Sonata for Two Pianos and Percussion. Includes brief lecture on the composer and the piece. Free, MU: Kaeuper Hall [1184 W Main St] 6-7p

3.23-3.26 Mauritius After their mother's death, two estranged half-sisters discover a book of rare stamps that may include the "crown jewel" for collectors. In this gripping tale, a seemingly simple sale becomes dangerous when all the characters are willing to do anything to claim the rare find as their own. $10, Pipe Dreams Studio Theatre [1099 W Wood St] 7:30p (Th-Sa) & 2p (Su)

FRIDAY, 24 Early Explorers Preschool Activity: Fun on the Farm Youth ages 2-5 learn about the fun world of farming! Participants make a fingerprint sheep craft and a popsicle stick tractor, play a round the sheep game, and snack on chicken feed (Chex mix). $7, Johns SCORE Business Book Club Living Forward: A Proven Plan to Stop Hill Center [601 S Jasper, 422.5911, decatur-parks.org] 10a-10:40a Drifting and Get the Life You Want

by Michael Hyatt & Daniel Harkavy.

Free, DPL: Staley Room [130 N Hello Mr. Lincoln: An Evening of Franklin St, 424.2900, decaturlibrary. Music and Discovery org] 6-7p Macon County Historian Mark Sorensen presents Lincoln's Illinois Photographs - Portraits of a Prairie The Masters and Merlot Learn to paint a masterpiece while Lawyer. Music provided by the 1st Pres String Band. Free, Rock having a great time. Open to all Springs Conservation Area [3939 skill levels! All supplies and light Nearing Ln, hfteach@att.net, snacks provided, including wine! maconcountyconservation.org] (21+). Space limited. Registration 7-8:30p required. $30, Gallery 510 [160 E Main, 422.1509, gallery510.org] 6-8p Shades of Gray Band VFW Post 99 [3915 N Cowgill St] 8-11p Shades of Gray Band VFW Post 99 [3915 N Cowgill St] 7-10p Robbie Mitchell Band Feeling Lucky [3775 N Woodford] 9p-1a MU Institute for Science Entrepreneurship Speaker Series Mark Matlock, Senior Vice President 3.24-3.25 Food Research, ADM Co., and Dan Stand Up Comedy Tegel, Think.Eat.Live. Open to the Ages 21+ Adam Degi & Headlined public, no tickets or reservations

by Nathan Timmel. $10 (adv), required. Free, MU: Richards $12 (day of ), Main Hangar Treat University Center [1184 W Restaurant [910 S Airport Rd, Main St, 424.6392, millikin.edu/ mainhangarrestaurant.net] 8:30p InstituteForScience Entrepreneurship] 7:30-9p

3.24-3.26 Bowl for Kids' Sake Fun and easy way for you and your company, friends, or family to support the life-changing work of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Illinois. Pla-Mor Lanes [2121 N 22nd St, 428.4240, bfksil2017.kintera.org] 5:30-10p (Fr, Sa), 1:30-3:30p (Su) SATURDAY, 25 Mt Zion Expo & Taste Over ten taste booths showcasing local restaurants offering tastes in exchange for a ticket. Free (expo), $6 (taste), Mt Zion Convention Center [1400 Mt Zion Parkway, Mt Zion, 864.2526, mtzionchamber. org] 9a-2p Penguin in the Park Embrace the Penguin in all of us–a race for the speedy, and those who want to take their time and enjoy the course! Post-race party at MU's Griswold Gym for awards, warm food, and inspiration. 300-meter penguin dash (kids) and 5K. Tot Trot $15 (3.1-3.17), $20 (after 3.17), 5K $25 (3.1-3.17), $30 (after 3.17), Fairview Park [1640 W Monument Hill Dr, penguin5k.com] 9-11a Shop for MS 75 crafters and direct sales vendors, raffles, giveaways, 50/50, bake sale, event t-shirts, and more. Hickory Point Mall [1146 Hickory Point Mall, Forsyth] 9a-3p Dulcimer Music Enjoy live music. Free, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 10a-12p Robert Chumbley Voice & Piano Masterclass One of America's celebrated classical composers, pianists, and conductors. Open to the public.

Free, MU: Kaeuper Hall [1184 W Main St, millikin.edu] 10a-12p

Search ALL Macon County events at www.ThriveDecatur.com

March Runway Paws A spring fashion show benefit for PawPrint Ministries. Door prizes/light refreshments. $10, The Decatur Club [158 W Prairie, 422.2674, legsrlng@yahoo.com] 10a-12p MU Women's Tennis vs Knox College Fairview Park: Tennis Center [1640 W Monument Hill Dr, athletics. millikin.edu] 11a-2p

12th Annual Soup Supper Price includes a sample of each soup (20 varieties) plus a bowl of your favorite soup, dessert, and a beverage. Enter on the north side of the church; handicap accessible. $6 (adult), $4 (ages 6-12), free (ages 5 and under), Christ United Methodist Church [1503 N Summit, christchurchhome.com] 4-6p Rise Up Decatur Christian School banquet and auction. Tickets may be purchased in the school office until March 21. $25 (person), $40 (couple), $150 (table), Tabernacle Baptist Church [650 N Wykles Dr, 877.5636, decaturchristian.net] 5-8p

Vietnam Era Veteran (1962-1975) Recognition Keynote speaker Stan Taylor.

Food and beverages served. Free, Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Richland Culinary Anderson Plaza, decaturciviccenter. Scholarship Dinner org] 1-2p Join us as the Shilling Salons are transformed into a Tuscan Movies @ the Library village for one night only. This Family - Happy Feet. Free, DPL: extraordinary dinner features ten Madden Auditorium [130 N courses of taste-tempting Italian Franklin St, decaturlibrary.org] 2-5p cuisine prepared by Chef Brian Tucker and the talented Richland Season's Changes Hike Culinary Arts students. Cocktails Find out what's changing in the (6p), multi-course dinner (6:30p), spring. Go on a hike and explore live & silent auction. $125 (indiv), the woods to locate clues. Register $1000 (table of 10), RCC: Shilling

by March 24. Free, Sand Creek Center [One College Park, richland.

Conservation Area [4000 S Franklin edu] 6-9p Street Rd, 423.7708] 2-3p St Valentinos Murder Theatre Come and figure out whodunnit at the St. Valentinos Massacre! Theme is 1920s, so come out in your best flapper dresses and pinstriped suits! Dinner provided by the Beach House. Purchase tix by March 17th. $35, Infusion Bar & Banquet Center [2882 N Dinneen St, 875.2416, nichole@infusiondecatur.com] 6:30-9:30p (doors open 6p)

Environmental Film Series A Sea Change. Fresh popcorn and healthy drinks available. Discussion following film. Free, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Decatur [3773 N MacArthur Rd, 875.5442, Uufd.org] 7-9p The Willis Clan Family of amazing musicians, dancers, athletes, writers, and artists. They merge their Irish roots with other music and dance genres to create a unique blend of the old and new. $25-40, School Age $5, Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main, 424.6318, millikin.edu/ kirkland] 7:30-9:30p Pizzazz VFW Post 99 [3915 N Cowgill St] 8:30-11:30p Lil Boosie Performing Live In Concert

SATURDAY, 25 Doors open 8p/show 9p.

General Admission $61(adv), $75 (door), VIP $90(adv), $115(door), Decatur Masonic Temple [224 W William St, Showclix.com/lilBoosie] 9-11p Lady Luck Pop's Place [4335 W Main, 330.6546] 9p-1a Mammoth Cannon $5, Lock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 9p SUNDAY, 26 MU Softball vs MacMurray College First game of softball on the new

26 | March 2017

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

MU field! MU: Workman Family Softball Field [1184 W Main St, athletics.millikin.edu] 1 & 3p David Lumsden and Friends Pop's Place [4335 W Main, 330.6546] 3-6p Faculty Recital Series: Amy Catron Millikin faculty cellist Amy Catron performs solo cello works by J.S. Bach and Robert Chumbley (world premiere of Particle I). Pianist Silvan Negrutiu joins in Beethoven's Cello & Piano Sonata No. 3. Open to the public. Free, MU: Kaeuper Hall [1184 W Main St, millikin.edu] 4-5:30p MONDAY, 27 5 Ingredient Fix Make a meal with only a few ingredients and talk about ways to use healthy convenience foods in your cooking. Advance registration required by March 20. $10, U of I Extension, Macon County [3351 N President Howard Brown Blvd, 877.6042, go.illinois.edu/dmp] 5-7p MidState Youth Soccer League Begins Non-travel league for grades K-8.

Practice times vary by age (Mo, Tu, Th). $85, Decatur Soccer Complex [1 Educational Park, 422.5911, midstatesoccer.com] 5:30-8:15p TUESDAY, 28 Essential Oils 101 All supplies provided. Call to register. The Perfect Pair [266 N St Rt 121, Warrensburg, 672.8822, theperfectpairantiquesandsalon. wordpress.com] 8:30a Non-Fiction Book Club The Grid: The Fraying Wires Between Americans and Our Energy Future by Gretchen Bakke. Free, DPL: Board Room [130 N Franklin St, 424.2900, decaturlibrary.org] 1-2p

Open Gaming Bring a game you'd like to share, or join someone else in a new game! Board, card, and dice games are welcome! All are welcome to attend, so bring a friend! Coz's Pizza (Mt Zion) [1405 E Village Parkway, Mt Zion, facebook.com/ thedecaturgamers] 5:30-9:30p Raptor Focus Series Turkey Vultures. $10, $5 (students), MU: Leighty-Tabor Science Center (Room 001) [1184 W Main St, 877.6042, go.illinois.edu/dmp] 6:30-7:30p Trivia Night See Facebook for details. Cost to play is purchase of liquid refreshment at Decatur Brew Works.

Decatur Brew Works [101 N Main St, 330.8683, decaturbrewworks. com] 7-9p WEDNESDAY, 29 Mini Camp: Raccoons Children ages 3-5 with an adult buddy learn about raccoons through stories, activities, and outdoor exploration. Register online by noon on March 28. $6, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 9:30-10:30a MU Softball vs Illinois College MU: Workman Family Softball Field [1184 W Main St, athletics.millikin. edu] 3 & 5p

THURSDAY, 30 Mini Camp: Raccoons Children ages 1-5 with an adult.

Register online by noon on March 28. $6, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708] 9:30-10:30a Casas for CASA Move-In Unveiling of two new Playhouses (March 30). March 30-April 30.

Raffle tickets for sale each day. Free, Hickory Point Mall (Center Court) [1146 Hickory Point Mall, Forsyth, 428.8424, maconcountycasa.org] 10a-9p It's Dance Time Put on your dancing shoes and bring us your requests. We keep it going all night long. $5, VFW Post 99 [3915 N Cowgill St, 358.9273, thefabuloushoedads.com] 7-10p FRIDAY, 31 MU Baseball vs Wheaton College (IL) Sunnyside Park [1590 N Sunnyside Rd, athletics.millikin.edu] 6-9p 3.31-4.1 Music Man, Jr Featuring over 40 talented actor/ singers ranging in age from 6 to 14, costumes, a colorful set, Garfield continues its tradition of presenting a broadway classic for your entertainment! $7 (adult), $5 (student) MacArthur High School [1 Educational Park] 7-8:30p

3.31-4.2 The Marvelous Wonderettes Little Hoopsters Begins Off-Broadway's hit musical featuring your favorite hits from the Teaches teamwork, dribbling, 50's and 60's! $10-20, Decatur Civic passing and shooting in a noncompetitive environment. Held on Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, decaturunderground.com] Wednesdays. $54, DISC [1295 W Wood, 422.5911, decatur-parks.org] 7p (Fr, Sa), 2p (Sa, Su) 5:30-6:30p 3.31-4.2 & 4.7-4.9 Movies @ the Library Antigone Sci-Fi - Guardians of the Galaxy. Free, Tragedy inspired by Greek DPL: Madden Auditorium [130 mythology. RCC: Shilling Center N Franklin St, decaturlibrary.org] [One College Park, richland.edu] 5:30-8p 7:30p (Fr, Sa) & 3p (Su)

Search ALL Macon County events at www.ThriveDecatur.com

Photos by Sarah Jane

Richland’s Culinary Arts Institute Makes Good Food Entertainment Eat your way through Italy and see chefs throw down in March

By Angela Myers From dueling chefs to a virtual trip to Italy, culinary arts students at Richland Community College are having a busy March.

First, teams from Richland and the Good Samaritan Inn will compete in the 4th Annual Culinary Cook-off, and then students from Richland will introduce guests at their Culinary Scholarship Dinner to dishes they discovered in the Italian countryside last summer.

For the cook-off, teams from Richland and the Inn compete by preparing a meal using a secret ingredient, while guests enjoy a meal from the kitchens of the Decatur Conference Center and Hotel. A panel of judges will decide the winner.

“This year they’ll be using fresh ingredients to parallel the food preparation training, which will be field to table,” says Julie Lakshmanan, advancement coordinator at the Inn. Most of the fresh ingredients used in training this summer will come from the 5 1/2 acres of urban plots farmed by volunteers, employees and gardening trainees at the Inn. All proceeds from the cook-off go to the Inn. Other than some food from the USDA, the Inn, originally a soup kitchen that now also teaches job skills, is mostly privately funded by the community. An average of 300 people—homeless, unemployed, underemployed— no one asks—eat at the Inn every day. Those who feel they can contribute leave a donation.

Chef Brian Tucker, director of the Culinary Arts Institute at Richland, has an interest in both teams at the cook-off: “We have a program called Mercy Kitchens, and we teach skills to some of those who attend programs at the Inn in the hope they can come on to Richland.”

The Culinary Scholarship Dinner is an opportunity for Chef Tucker’s students at Richland to learn to organize a big event. Although the students run a restaurant and a coffee shop in the college, for this

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millikin.edu/adult • 217.420.6771 • adult@millikin.edu 30 | March 2017

dinner they will serve 10 courses to about 150 guests, including sponsors, donors and perhaps some potential employers.

“As a donor, you seldom have the opportunity to see the hands-on impact of your gifts,” says Julie Melton, executive director of the Richland Foundation.

This year, the Shilling Salons will be transformed into an Italian Village setting for the dinner.

“Last summer, 18 students went to Italy,” explains Chef Tucker. “We stayed in a small town and experienced the culture and the cuisine. The students gave input for dishes to try to replicate.”

It wasn’t easy to choose, he admits. The food was amazing and nothing like the Italian food most of us experience in the U.S.

Proceeds from the dinner are used for culinary scholarships, some of which cover the cost of the trip, actually a social sciences class that fulfills program requirements.

GET THERE The 4th Annual Culinary Cook-off at the Decatur Conference Center and Hotel, 4191 W. US Hwy 36, will start at 6 pm.

March 4. Seats are $30 each. Tickets may be purchased at goodsamaritaninn.org, or by calling Julie Lakshmanan, 429-1455.

Celebrate Italia! in the Shilling Salons at Richland Community College, 1 College Park, Decatur, will start at 6 pm on March 25. Seats are $125 each. Contact Debbie Ellison, 875-7211 x6350, for tickets.

Angela Myers is a freelance writer based in Decatur.

Purchase your ZooMu Pass for Great Benefits!

Where can you find wild animals, interactive exhibits, education, and fun? In Scovill Park! The new ZooMu Pass offers exciting perks at Scovill Zoo and the Children’s Museum of Illinois.

Cost is just $155 for one full year for BOTH facilities! Visit Scovill Zoo or the Children’s Museum of Illinois to purchase your pass today!

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THRIVE Q&A

NATHAN PIERCE

WHY THE MACON COUNTY HISTORY MUSEUM IS A GREAT IDEA FOR MACON COUNTY

It’s important to preserve and protect the history of the county. It affords people the opportunity to see and get in touch with the past in the county/city they reside.

Without an organization to take in and preserve the important pieces of local history, so much of it would be lost.

MOST EXCITING PART OF THE MACON COUNTY HISTORY MUSEUM

Photo: Sarah Jane

How can you get a window into the past while equally enjoying the present? Who better to answer than Nathan Pierce, Executive Director of the Macon County History Museum? We asked him to share his favorite ways to straddle two centuries.

FAVORITE WAY TO TAKE IN HISTORY IN MACON COUNTY (OTHER THAN MCHM OF COURSE)

New exhibits are always interesting. My favorite would probably have to be attending larger events that offer a variety of different presenters showing how certain skills or tasks were done in the 19th century.

MOST UNEXPECTED THING TO DO IN MACON COUNTY

I just found out last fall that you could check out sailboats at the yacht club after becoming a member. I went with a friend in October before it got too cold. Next year I’m getting my certification and wish I would have realized this when I first moved here. I grew up on the Mississippi River and spent a lot of time boating, but I had never sailed until a few months ago.

MORE INFO AT MCHMDECATUR.ORG 32 | March 2017

For me, when staff members go through our archives and collections to organize them and come across unique documents or items that have been stashed away in a room and probably not seen for decades.

For the typical visitor who would not see these types of behind-the-scenes things, it would really depend on what type of history they are most interested in, but I would imagine the Lincoln/Civil War/ Grand Army of the Republic Room would probably be the area many visitors would find the most interesting.

SOMETHING ABOUT THE MACON COUNTY HISTORY MUSEUM THAT WOULD SURPRISE THE AVERAGE DECATURITE

The number of items stored in the archives and collections rooms. There is only so much exhibit space, so many artifacts cannot be displayed at all times.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE MACON COUNTY HISTORY MUSEUM

We are currently doing renovations in the lower part of the museum that we didn’t have time to get to two years ago when we renovated a large part of the building. We will reopen with a new women’s clothing and hat exhibit on February 28, and I hope to have a sports exhibit done by then or shortly after depending on how long it takes get items on loan from outside sources.

2017 Mt. Zion EXPO & TASTE

Mt. Zion Convention Center Saturday, March 25, 2017 Expo 9:00 - 2:00

Taste 11:00 - 1:00

Stage Show 11:00 - 1:00

Visit Businesses & Area Organizations Booths

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