June 2011 Thrive by THRIVE Entertainment Guide

Locker Room: Troy Hayes Talks PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP p.12

ROCK SPRINGS GROUND SQUIRRELS VINTAGE BASE BALL AT ITS BEST

Ribbon Ride

Come Together, Youth Advisory Board Fillipo’s Pizza and Pasta The area’s handiest FREE Events Calendar June2011

THRIVE is a FREE, monthly entertainment guide featuring the handiest events calendar for the Decatur, IL area. THRIVE IS ALSO ... a state of Being. To THRIVE is to Flourish. It’s Prosperity. It’s Success. It’s Positivity at all cost. It’s finding the Fun in all you do. It isn’t always easy, but to persevere against those who would have you believe “there’s nothing to do here” is to THRIVE. THRIVE is a publication of Showcard Studio PO Box 6195 • Decatur, IL 62524 • 217.791.5653 www.thrivedecatur.com www.issuu.com/thrivedecatur Publisher: Katrina Smalley publisher@thrivedecatur.com Managing Editor: Jennifer Hendricks The Eventor: Stephanie Zimmerman events@thrivedecatur.com Senior Writer: Joli Hohenstein Contributors: T. F. Dude Ruthie Gergeni Todd Hauser Troy Hayes Katrina Smalley Photographers: Travis Lickey Alida Duff Sullivan Layout Design: Showcard Studio Printing: Wood Printing

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 | june 2011

AND CAN BE FOUND AT ALL OF THESE LOCATIONS! ADM • Aloha • America’s Best Value Inn • An Affair to Remember • Applebee’s • Architectural Expressions • Attitudes Salon • Baker Law Office • Bellasara • Blue Connection • Blue Eggs & Ham • Bourbon Barrel • Brinkoetter & Associates • C&K Custom Signs • Carlos O’Kelly’s • Cartridge World • Caterpillar • Children’s Museum • CITC • Clockwork Pizza • Coffee Connection • Cohn Furniture • Collect Them • Coney McKane’s • Coziahr Harley Davidson • Curly’s • Da Franco’s Pizza • Dale’s Southlake Pharmacy • Days Inn • Debbie’s Diner • Decatur Animal Clinic • Decatur Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau • Decatur Athletic Club • Decatur Beach House • Decatur Civic Center • Decatur Conference Center • Decatur Dental Care • Decatur Mutual Insurance • Decatur Professional Plaza • Decatur Public Library • Decatur Earthmover Credit Union • Del’s Express • Diane’s Mane Strategy • Different by Design • DMH Express Care - Fairview • Doherty’s Pub & Pins • Donnies Homespun Pizza • Dragon Buffet • Dreamers Diner • Dynagraphics/FastImpressions • Earthen Pottery • El Matador • Endless Summer Tanning • Famous Liquors • Fillipo’s Pizza • Firewater Cafe • First Wok • Fox’s Hound • Fringe • Fuji • Garcia’s Pizza • Gerber State Bank • Giggles • Good Naber Specialty Foods • Goodfellas • Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce • Greater Decatur Y • Guadalajara • Haines & Essick Co. • IHOP • It’s a Girl Thing • It’s Just a Little Prick • Jan’s East End Grille • Jimmy Ryan’s • Katz on Merchant • KC Hall • Krekels • Kroger • La Gondola • Lana’s Cakewalk • Land of Lincoln Credit Union • Leo H. Berger Insurance • Linda’s Music • Lock Stock & Barrel • Love at First Sight • Macon County Farm Bureau • Madden Arts Center • Main Hangar • Mari Mann Herbs Co. • Maustell’s Pizza • McGorray’s Golf & Grille • Melisty Mart • Merry Maids • Mi Pueblito • Mike’s Hairstyling • Miles Chevrolet • Millenium Tan • Millie & Bo’s Barkery • Millikin University/Kirkland • Monical’s • Mt. Zion Chamber of Commerce • Neuhoff Media • Nissan • Nola’s Hair Salon • Northgate Pet Clinic • Nova Framing / Gallery 510 • Old Book Barn • One Main Place Building • Oreana Public Library • Orthopaedic & Rehabilitation Specialists of Central IL • Paco’s Sol Bistro • Pastabilities • Petals • Pizza Hut • Pla-Mor Lanes • Play it Again Sports • Porter’s on Merchant • Priceless Smiles/Styles & Smiles • Pride Coin Laundry • Promax Construction • Ramada Limited • Regions Bank • Renew Total Wellness • Richland Community College • Richland Extension Office • Robbies Outlet • RUSH Wireless • Salon 402 • Shear Learning • Shop on Main • Sloan’s Calzones • Solar Tan • Sound Check Music Center • Soy Capital • Soy Capital • Spa Villa • Spare Time Lanes • Speed Lube • Speed Lube Total Care • Star Silkscreen • Studio 7 • Subway, West End • Swartz Properties • Tasty’s Chicago Grille • Texas Roadhouse • The Chili Bowl • The Decanter • The Decatur Club • The Fox’s Den • The Secret Garden • The Wharf • The Winery • Timbuktu • Touch Design • Tournesol • Triple Dog Dare Ya • Tropix Salon and Spa • Unique Boutique • Up N’ Runnin’ • Veolia Environmental Services • Wabash Crossing Antiques • Whitestar Home Healthcare Services • Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe • Yoga Hound • Zips Florist by the Gates

WANT TO SEE YOUR NAME HERE? Give us a call if you have a great place for THRIVE at your business! 217.791.5653

in this issue

05 12 26 34

14 on the cover A look at Base Ball Clubs from the 1800’s and the Rock Springs Ground Squirrels Club of today. cover photo: Travis Lickey

30 Ribbon Ride Coziahr Harley Davidson and The Ribbon Ride fight cancer one mile at a time with a stream of ribbons and a few sucker punches! photo: Alida Duff Sullivan

BEHIND THE THRIVE

Out and About

SPOTLIGHT: Youth Advisory Board

The Food Dude: Fillipo’s Pizza and Pasta

The Locker Room: Players Championship

June Events Calendar

Spot the Difference (answers p.32)

Club 501

Visual Guide to Container Gardening

THRIVE 3Way: Three Ways to Add a Little Vintage

issue #25 | june 2011 thrivedecatur.com | issuu.com/thrivedecatur

THRIVE

is created and printed locally, in Decatur, IL.

WE RECYCLE!

Do You? Hand THRIVE to a friend or put it out in your bin!

june 2011 | 03

BTEH EHIND

THRIVE

Recently, I was asked to gather a set of all our back issues and man, did I have a chuckle flipping through our first issue. Now, I’m not saying our first issue was funny, we’ve just done a whole lot of growing since then, particularly in this past year of Thrive. It’s always good fun to look back at where you’ve come from and to ponder how you managed to get where you’re at. Much of our progress can be attributed to the fantastic teamwork that has propelled us forward. We’ve also had the pleasure of working with Jayson Albright, a deeply creative soul, who has helped push and pull at the fabric of Thrive to see what more it can become. His unique perspectives and unyielding positive energy have been invaluable. Jayson has left the role of Managing Editor, but he’ll always be a part of the Thrive Team. Hats off to Jay and all the great work he’s done for us so far! As you flip through this copy of Thrive I hope you enjoy the new names and voices including our new Managing Editor who I’m sure you’ll be hearing from very soon!

Publisher 04 | june 2011

Out & About A look back at last month’s happenings

Take a Quack at it!

Flocks of supporters made a splash at the 2011 Greater Decatur Duck Derby.

photo: Amy Blackburn

Quacker Jack (right) gave big hugs before and after the race. He can be spotted at a number of Museum events or you can be friends on facebook. Just look up “Quacker Jack”!

derby photos and words: Katrina Smalley

The Children’s Museum of Illinois hosted their annual fundraiser on May 7, with ducks on sale for $5 each, a flock of 11 for $50 or a pack of quackers for $100. In a mad splash to the finish, the lucky winner scored their prize and everyone had lots of laughs.

Quacker Jack and friends just after the Duck Derby

Sometimes the ducks need just a little help.

Annie, Jr.

Gabriella Tortorice (6th grade) played Orphan Annie in Garfield Montessori’s production of Annie, Jr. which ran May 13-14th at the Lincoln Square Theatre.

june 2011 | 05

Out & About

A look back at last month’s happenings words & photo: Ben Hurley

Opus 24 drew a full house to its spring concert. The concert, themed “How Can I Keep from Singing,” was a treat for the ears and included a variety of works both new and familiar.

Boy, Oh Boy!

Richland Community College sold all 3,000 mixed variety pepper plants by 11:30 on their Plant Sale opening day Friday, May 6th. Their 6,000 tomato plants were quick to go too including all of their Big Boy’s.

words & photo: Katrina Smalley

06 | june 2011

Master Gardener’s Plant Sale The Macon County Fairgrounds were awash in color May 7th at the 2011 Master Gardener’s Plant Sale. The annual (pun intended) event, an extension of the U of I Master Gardener Program, featured a variety of plants grown by certified master gardeners, as well as vegetables, baked goods, and garden items.

words & photo: Ben Hurley

words & photos: Katrina Smalley

$13 tattoos at It’s Just A Little Prick Tattoo Co.

Kate (left) and Jennifer (right)

Jennifer’s “13” tattoo, just one of the 426 inked that day at the shop.

photo: Sarah Jane

Jennifer Voelker, manager at Millie & Bo’s Barkery braved a tattoo on Friday the 13th accompanied by her friend Katie C a r d e r. T h e r e were a slew of “13” tattoos for $13 to pick from and a line out the door.

Softball Showcase

The Maroa-Forsyth Trojans snuck in more than just this strike in their 6-0 win against Danville-Schlarman at the High School Softball Showcase hosted by Central Illinois Girls Softball. Twelve area teams showed what they’re made of out at the Borg Warner Complex.

From the

Heart

The 2011 Heart Gala proved to be a festive, high-energy black tie event which raised over $100,000 in just one night for the American Heart Association. Co-chairs Dr. Lee and Pam Endsley agree this is yet another testament to our communities’ giving spirit and kindness.

Get a move on! Maddie and her handler soared through the agility course with leaps and bounds in the AKC Dog Agility Trial at Progress City. The trials ran May 13-15 and was sponsored by the Decatur Obedience Training Club.

june 2011 | 07

SPOTLIGHT

by Joli Hohenstein

Youths Come Together to Fight Cancer “No matter how old they are, they can certainly still learn about breast, ovarian and cervical cancer.” Out of the mouths of babes! St. Teresa Senior Molli Boles, a member of the newly formed Youth Advisory Board for Come Together - Let’s Walk! (formerly Race for the Cure), has been raising awareness as long as she can remember. And you’re never too young to learn, she says. “My mom has been on the committee since before I was born so I’ve always helped out,” says Molli. “A lot of the younger girls have no idea the things they face.” It was that attitude that got walk Coordinator Cindy Deadrick-Wolfer thinking. “The idea came when we were notified that three girls would do a birthday party and instead of gifts ask for donations that would go to us,” she says. “Then the MacArthur girls’ softball team gave $900 and presented it to us at one of their games, so that got the other team involved and aware, too.” That’s when it hit: “It seems obvious now; it just makes sense to have youths’ perspective and input on the best avenues to pursue to reach all ages,” says Cindy. The new Youth Advisory Board will bring together girls and boys ages 10-18 to brainstorm, inform and share knowledge on how to reach their age groups with the important messages about preventing, spotting and treating breast, ovarian and cervical cancer. “We’re looking for ways to reach the kids and educate them,” says Cindy. That involvement can’t start too young, as Molli can attest. She’s been raising funds, volunteering and participating in the walks since before she could walk. And she never loses sight of why these events happen. “I like the race day event,” she says. “Seeing the survivors and their families and people walking for others is really a great thing.”

Understanding the importance of youth connecting with their cause, walk organizers will charge the Youth Advisory Board with finding the best ways to reach their peers. “We know the impact that youth can have in the fight against these diseases,” says Cindy. “This is about getting the message to youths so girls are prepared and aware.” At press time the Youth Advisory Board had six members; Cindy would like to see 12-15. If you are interested or know a youth who would be, call Cindy Deadrick-Wolfer at 433-4206.

Come Together - Let’s Walk! When organizers found out the Komen Foundation wasn’t renewing the Decatur race’s contract, and that meant locally raised funds may not go to local programs, they knew they had to act. Come Together - Let’s Walk! is the next evolution of the long-running race. An event to fight breast, ovarian and cervical cancer, Come Together - Let’s Walk! is set for Saturday, June 25, in Decatur’s Fairview Park, with Decatur Memorial Hospital and St. Mary’s Hospital as the presenting sponsors. The event will feature food, exhibits and activities for women, men and families, with 100% of the net revenue staying with local breast, ovarian and cervical cancer programs. The event includes a self timed 3 mile run and a 1 mile and 3 mile walk. Cost per adult is $25 from June 1 to June 23. Children 10 and under are $10 through June 24. On June 25, all participants are $30. Free tee shirts are included as part of registration, with special shirts for survivors. Sponsorship and pledge opportunities are available. For more info or to register, call 233-3391 or visit http://cometogetherletswalk.com

Joli Hohenstein is a senior contributor to THRIVE. She is an award-winning freelance writer, marketer, and editor. Contrary to popular belief, she does fight like a girl but throws a wicked sucker punch. Get more Joli at jolihohenstein.com. 08 | june 2011

From seed to market,

you just can’t get anything fresher. SATURDAYS

JUNE 4 - OCTOBER 15 8:00AM - NOON

MANAGED BY THE RICHLAND STUDENT FARMS

RICHLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE SHILLING PARKING LOT

FOR INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 217.875.7211, ext. 562 | richland.edu

june 2011 | 09

THE FOOD DUDE

by T. F. DUDE

Filippo’s Pizza and Pasta Long ago, when I was just a wee little food dude, I would ride along with my big brother to pick up our most favorite pizza; thin crust sausage and cheese. This simple task that I speak of is not to be taken lightly, though. Every couple of months we would embark upon the twenty-two and a half mile pilgrimage to Filippo’s Pizza in Monticello.

pizza sauce comes into play both on the pizza and with the breadstick options! You can choose from nacho cheese, spaghetti sauce or pizza sauce. I think it’s clear which way I lean on this one...pizza sauce all the way, especially when enjoying their Stuffed Sticks, which are mozzarella stuffed breadsticks. It’s a no-brainer for this foodie.

I was old enough to know that the trek would mean good music, lots of laughs and most of all I would get to snitch some pizza before anyone at home got a bite. Piece by piece, I would divvy out our portions, starting with the little baby corner pieces of course. As the passenger, this was my super important job.

Over the years, I’ve learned that I have a lot of favorite pizza joints. Each one has their own recipes and proportions. Plus, every pizza place I frequent has a very specific topping combination that I think is in perfect harmony with their unique recipes.

Years and years later, I’m sure you can imagine my excitement when I found out we had a Filippo’s Pizza in Mt. Zion. It’s hard to top the childhood memories, but now I go back for the pizza. It seems they held true to the recipes, too. Filippo’s always served up authentic Italian recipes their family brought with them from Sicily back in 1970 and our Mt. Zion Filippo’s seems spot on. Specifically, the pizza crust and sauce have always stood out to me as unique. They’re both just a little bit sweeter than most. Not too much, but just enough that I’m pretty sure I could pick it out of a lineup. A good crust is always important, but their

At Filippo’s, I’ve really latched onto the veggie pizza for one main reason: It comes with tomatoes! They manage to pile the veggies on high without skimping on the cheese or sauce. The best part is the play between the slightly sweeter pizza sauce and the black and green olives. It teeters on the line of too salty, but as soon as you catch the fresh tomato flavor it’s the perfect level of savory. The veggie pizza also has mushrooms, onions and green peppers which all contribute to its wonderful balance. I shouldn’t forget to mention the pastas. The last time in, I had a chance to taste the Chicken Parmesan and I was pleasantly surprised! Often, with Chicken Parmesan I’m left thinking that the breading was good, but the chicken was nothing special. In this case, either the seasoned breading was so amazing it won me over all by itself, or the chicken breast was well seasoned, too because I was never left with a boring bite. This food dude is ready to move out of my pizza comfort zone and dig into more Filippo’s pastas.

photo: T.F. Dude

Filippo’s Pizza and Pasta Open Tuesday - Sunday, 4-11pm. (cash only) 435 N. State Highway 121, Mount Zion, IL 62549 217.864.4467

Agree? Disagree? Join the discussion at: Facebook.com/DecaturFoodDude. The Food Dude is not a professional critic. He just really, really likes food. 10 | june 2011

june 2011 | 11

THE LOCKER ROOM

by Troy Hayes

FRONT NINE For more than 25 years, the Tate & Lyle Players Championship has been a fixture on the Decatur summer calendar. The Futures golf event has become an annual affair for the rabid and casual fan alike. This year, the faithful have marked June 16-19 at Hickory Point Golf Course as their pilgrimage date to watch as 156 players from the United States and around the world compete to earn their spot on the LPGA Tour.

to fund the annual tournament. Deadrick-Wolfer is also looking to the mothership of women’s golf for ideas.

Familiar names like Lisa Ferrero, Nicole Jeray, Jessica Shepley and former Decatur winner Jenny Gleason will be back to try and grab some of the $125,000 in prize money. Ferrero and Gleason both sit toward the top of the tour’s money list this season.

She also said the tourney planning committee is working to get a three-year deal signed with the tour to ensure the tournament stays in Decatur at least through 2014.

A familiar tradition also returns this year. The event, after a year of charging admission, will again be free to all who want to come. Sponsors will also have many more passes to the hospitality tent to distribute as they see fit. Those passes had been reduced as another way to make the tournament viable, though the event still sits on some shaky ground as far as viability goes.

So the show will go on, at least this year. And if the hundreds of workers and volunteers that make this such an enjoyable event have anything to say about it, it will continue for a long time to come.

BACK NINE When Tate & Lyle signed on as the title sponsor a year ago, the company promised just a year of support in that role. Many fans worried just how long the event could survive without some sort of long-term commitment from a major sponsor.

“We’re going to be working hand-in-hand with the LPGA Tour to develop a strategic plan for the future of the tournament,” Deadrick-Wolfer said. “The LPGA tour will begin taking a hands-on approach with most of the Futures tourneys.”

PLAYOFF

“It would be hard to imagine not having it each year,” Deadrick-Wolfer said. “It’s part of the fabric of the community.” For more info check out: www.tateandlyleplayerschampionship.com

Unfortunately, the worry continues as the tournament director Cindy Deadrick-Wolfer and everyone else involved in putting on the muchanticipated event still looks for that promise of support for multiple years. This year, Tate & Lyle stepped up again to provide title-sponsor money for the event, and the long-time contributor to local happenings is considering a multi-year deal Troy Hayes is a former sportswriter at the Herald & Review and currently is a co-host of “The Aric Lee Show,” heard each weekday from 3-6 p.m. on ESPNDecatur 1050 AM “The Fan” (WDZ). Troy enjoys haircuts, puppies and food from a can. 12 | june 2011

The hurler, John “Backbone” Taylor, swats away a gnat as I step up to the dish and raise the willow off my shoulder. The tallykeeper raises his pencil. Backbone, a tall, lanky gent, wipes the apple on his blouse and with a nod to the behind makes his pitch. I know the cranks are shouting their encouragement, but I hear nothing. I see the scouts are looking for a sky ball, and I offer a quick prayer that is what they will receive. SMACK! Contact! Not a sky ball this time, but I do deliver a stinger just out of range of the rover. Turning toward first base, I dig in and leg it, as the rover surely has a lot of sand. I now hear cranks and the club shouting, “Leg it, sir! Leg it!” Leg it I do and reach the base just ahead of the basetender. Cries of “Huzzah!” fill the air, and I receive a hearty slap on the back from the basetender, a handsome young gent with quite the reputation for being a vim. 14 | june 2011

the ROCK SPRINGS GROUND SQUIRRELS VINTAGE BASE BALL

{WHAT BASEBALL USED TO BE} words: Ruthie Gergeni

photos: Travis Lickey

So in case you haven’t noticed, there are a few differences between the game we know and love as baseball, and vintage base ball (circa 1858). Differences in terminology are just the beginning. Balls that are hit can be caught either in the air or on one bounce (or “one bound”) for an out. There is no stealing of bases, and basemen (or “tenders”) generally stay close to their base. This makes the position of “rover” (shortstop) more important, as the rover will “rove” to the right side of the field for a left-handed hitter.

image: Ralph “Poco Loco” Graczyk batting vs. “Pig” the Long Nine’s captain.

Bats are heavier than a typical baseball bat, and they are, of course, wooden. The ball may be pitched underhanded, and there are no called balls or strikes. And did I mention that no one uses gloves? The ball used is slightly larger and softer than a regulation baseball, but vintage base ball is known as a hitter’s game. That means hand and finger sprains and broken bones are a fairly common occurrence. Gloves began to be used in the 1880s, and by the 1890s, they were more widely accepted. Just so no one gets any sneaky ideas, 1858 rules strictly prohibit the use of hats as gloves. Adding to the fun are the players themselves who develop their own 19thcentury personas, complete with creative nicknames. “I absolutely find myself wishing I had a glove!” noted Robert “Paydirt” Grindy, the Right Scout (right fielder) for Decatur’s very own Rock Springs Ground Squirrels Vintage Base Ball Club, as he displays the permanently crooked ring finger on his right hand. According to Grindy, one thing that is foremost is sportsmanlike conduct. “We take that very seriously,” he commented. “You don’t complain, you don’t argue, you don’t curse. Everyone likes to win and play well, but no one is

uptight about it. If we are playing a team that does not have those same values, we simply don’t play them again.” Grindy went on to explain that when done right vintage base ball can be likened to historical theatre. Vintage base ball offers an elegance simply not seen in ultracompetitive city softball leagues, and rarely seen as the pros play America’s pastime. The teams actually respect each other, encourage each other, and definitely enjoy putting on a show, while remaining goodnaturedly competitive. Ground Squirrels owner Joseph Trobaugh (aka Lee Slider) is quick to point out that the Rock Springs Ground Squirrels Vintage Base Ball Club is an educational program of the Macon County Conservation District. Trobaugh carefully keeps track of hours played by each player, as all players receive volunteer hours for the Macon County Conservation District. The Ground Squirrels were founded in 1993. Trobaugh, an employee at the Decatur Conservation and Nature Area, received an invitation from the Ohio Historical Society to play vintage base ball in a tournament in Ohio. They gathered a team of eight or nine and made the trip to Ohio. Upon their arrival, the team was assigned a player who was a reporter for continued on next page

continued from page 15

the Wall Street Journal. The team lost the game, but the reporter wrote a story about the team and his experience, and so Trobaugh needed to come up with a name for the team. Rock Springs had a ground squirrel mascot at the time, so the Rock Springs Ground Squirrels were born.

image: Spencer foreground; background: Jim “Weedeater” Knoblauch, founder and captain of the Vermilion Voles, and April “C’mon Mamma” Prasun, co-captain GS

The team enjoyed nationwide recognition after being featured in the Wall Street Journal (“above the fold”) pointed out Trobaugh. Trobaugh then fielded a call from CNN, and the team was also featured in Southwest Airline’s in flight magazine. For many years, the Ground Squirrels were the only vintage base ball team in Illinois, and their closest competitors were the Deep River Grinders in Indianapolis. Today, the Ground Squirrels play their home games at “BeautifulTrobaughField”, at Rock Springs Center in Decatur, and their season runs from May through October. It’s a busy season, and they may play as many as 30 games. That is quite a commitment, but where else can you be reborn as a gentleman ball player complete with a new name?

GS co-captain Shawn “Zunie” Prasun and umpire Jim “Moonshine” Spencer below: “Droopy Drawers” at bat

The slowest man in vintage base ball, Bob “Droopy Drawers” Sampson, hurling below: Long Nine

16 | june 2011

Vintage Base Ball Key Pitcher = Hurler Bat = Willow Score keeper = Tallykeeper Ball = Apple Fans = Cranks Fielders = Right Scout/Left Scout Shortstop = Rover Fly ball = Sky ball Hard hit ball = stinger Fearless players have a lot of “sand” Team = Club Run! = Leg it! Infielder = Basetender Hurrah! = Huzzah! “Vim” describes an energetic player.

june 2011 | 17

June Events EVERY DAY Alan Perry Photography Show Photographs of native flowers, wild animals and scenic wonders from across the country for years. Rock Spring Nature Center

Mobile Soundz Karaoke AIW Hall, 8p

Saturday Afternoon Blues The Bourbon Barrel, 4-8p

Open Mic Night with Tom Johnson Donnie’s Homespun Pizza, 8:30p

Wednesday, 6.1 Chamber Business Breakfast 7-8a

EVERY MONDAY Decatur Municipal Band Central Park, 5-10p

Lookin’ Good Wednesdays Thursday, 6.2 Cornerstone Tavern (1190 Southside Dr), El Guapo 972.6663, 9p Great old & new rock n roll. Sliderz Bar & Grille, 8p Let’s Get Fit! (Thru 6.20) EVERY WEDNESDAY-SATURDAY Walk/Run, Fairview Park, 5:30p Docta LD DJ/Karaoke Friday, 6.3 Curly’s Bar & Pizza, 875.9800, 9p-2a 24th Annual Chamber Golf EVERY TUESDAY Outing Sleepy Time Tales EVERY THURSDAY Hickory Point Golf Course, For Info: Mt Zion District Library, 6:30p Game Night 422.2200. Lunch 11a - Shotgun Start Play games & have fun. Wildflour 12p - 19th Hole Luau Reception 5p Knit Night Artisan Bakery and Cafe, 5-7p Decatur Area Arts Council, Madden Arts Golden K Kiwanis Center, $3 non-members, 7-9p Bike Nite Club Golf Outing Stop in at Coziahr H-D® to pick up a Maury Doawne Memorial Golf Outing, DJ Stevie Ray Kelton schedule of Bike Nite locations. 6-8p Scovill Golf Course. For info 876.8041. 1p Jabroni’s, 9p shotgun start, 5:30 dinner DJ Karaoke with EVERY WEDNESDAY Big Daddy Frank Opening Cultural Event Basic Digital Photography Applebee’s, Forsyth, 875.0281, 9p PURA VIDA: Life in Costa Rica $55 members, $60 non. Decatur Area “Latin Connection” music, salsa demo/ Arts Council, Madden Arts Center, DJ Stevie Ray Kelton audience participation, taste of Costa 5:45-7:15p Timbuktu, 9p Rica. From intimate close-up pictures of flora and fauna to images of the people Family Golf Night/Pro Tips DJ David Lee and landscape, experience the country Family Night provides a low-key Lock Stock & Barrel, 429.7411, and culture of Costa Rica in brilliant instructional environment for golfers lockstockdecatur.com, 10p-2a photographic detail. Free. Madden Arts of all skill levels. Park District pros; plus Center, 423.3189, 5-8p all the range balls you can hit! $9 per EVERY SATURDAY adult/child combo. Red Tail Run Learning Saturday Produce Market Let’s Come Together Evening! Center (520 W Grove), 422.2211. 6-8p Richland Community College, 8a-12p Join us at downtown eateries for a fun evening. 50/50 raffle & souvenir glasses. Beginning Photoshop Elements Native American Animal 5-10p $55 members, $60 non. Decatur Area Legends: Drawing Class Arts Council, Madden Arts Center, $35 members, $40 non. Decatur Area Culver’s (Mt Zion) Car Show 7:30-9:30p Arts Council, Madden Arts Center, 5-9p, The STILL at 6p 10-11a Comedy Shop (1st & 3rd Wed) Sports Zone - Decatur Conference Center Native American Animal & Hotel. Cover charge: $5. For info, Legends: Painting Class 422.8800, 8-9:30p $35 members, $40 non. Madden Arts Center, 11-12p

find club 501 on facebook! 18 | june 2011

To view even more events go to: www.thrivedecatur.com

Grillin’ in the Garden Baby Talk’s Annual outdoor fundraising event which includes an evening of live entertainment, dancing, and delicious offering provided by The Beach House. $75/single or $125/couple. 475.2234 for info. 6-9p Crosstown unplugged Long Creek Vineyard, 6-8p “Free Music Fridays” on the Patio: Billy Galt Drink Specials - $2 domestic bottles & $3 margaritas. There’s no place you’d rather be than the patio at Jimmy Ryan’s. Join us every Friday for free music, great food & drink specials and an atmosphere that can’t be beat. www.jimmyryans.com for more details. 6:30-8:30p DJ Philbilly Sliderz Bar & Grille, 9p Johnny Vomit, Eye Gouger Cornerstone Tavern, 9p

Curlyfest! Escaping Neverland & Inside Out Friday, $5 cover. Riverbottom Nightmare Band & Rosetta Stone - Saturday, $7 cover. Curly’s Sports Bar & Pizza (2683 N Water St), 875.9800. 7:30p 6.3-6.5 CIGS Rebels Shootout! Open Tournament for teams 10U, 12U and 14U. Borg Warner Field, Times Vary 6.3-6.12 Macon County Fair For times and schedule: maconcountyfair.net 6.3-7.30 PURA VIDA: Life in Costa Rica Photography of Juan Mata-Lorenzen. From intimate close-up pictures of flora and fauna to images of the people and landscape, experience the country and culture of Costa Rica in brilliant photographic detail, Madden Arts Center, 423.3189 (125 W Water St), 8:30a-4:30p (Mo-Fr), 10a-4p (Sa)

KJay Decatur Masonic Temple, 224 W William, Saturday, 6.4 9p CONO Neighborhood Street Festival Chris Bradley & Jennifer Hood Enjoy entertainment on center stage Donnie’s Homespun Pizza, 9:30p and visit the many booths. Purchase food items, such a hotdogs and brats, 6.3-6.4 popcorn and soda, baked goods and Mt Calvary Rummage candy bars. Brought by the Coalition of & Bake Sale Neighborhood Organizations, Central BBQ/hot dog plate & homemade pies Park, 10a-2p served 10:30a-1p. Mt Calvary Lutheran Church (2055 S Franklin),7a-5p (Fr), Preschool Peepers7a-2p (Sa) Something Fishy Did you know that the bluegill is our Debbie’s Dance state fish? Youth ages 3-5 will discover Decatur Civic Center, 6:30p (Fr) & 12:30p the life of a fish by viewing skeletons, (Fr/Sa)

learning fish anatomy, and making fish prints with paint. Afterwards the group will venture to the cattail ponds. Fee $1. Reservations required. Rock Springs Nature Center. 10-11a Father’s Day Craft Ages 5-13, Mt Zion District Library, Please Register, 10a Todd Streibich Poker Run Sign up at Coziahr H-D, 12-1p Oakwood Block Party Oakland Ave (Decatur) - near Lock Stock & Barrel, 3-10p A Chocolate Affair Enjoy Chocolate delights and Chocolate Entrees along with specials all afternoon and evening at participating businesses! Retail stores 2-5p, Restaurants 5-9p Project 51 Your favorite classic rock music at Long Creek Vineyards, 4-8p The Blues Deacons Barbs Place/Adams Apple, 411 N 22nd St, 429.2112, 4-9p The STILL Sliderz Bar & Grille, 4p

Land of Lincoln Credit Union is the official sponsor of Club 501. Club 501 is a committee of the Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce.

June Events Kick-N-Asphalt for Autism Run Find food, friends, drinks and entertainment on the course through the streets of Downtown Decatur! 3mi route, but with our 1 mile loop, you pick your distance. Run, walk or stop at the first restaurant! $30 Race Reg., $10 Tent Party only. For info: Easter Seals 429.1052 x110. Run, 5p. Tent Party featuring Imagine That Band, 7p L Win Motel Lock Stock & Barrel, 8-11:30p Brushfire Playing great new country & some 80’s pop hits. Sliderz Bar & Grille, 9p The Veggies Timbuktu, 9p-1a Sunday, 6.5 Dove 40th Anniversary Celebration Open House begins at 1p, Decatur Park Singers & Young Park Singers begin at 2p. Anna B Millikin Home (302 S Union). 1p Car & Bike Show Timbuktu, 1-5p From Slavery to Freedom: The Underground Railroad in Illinois Jacksonville historian and newspaper columnist Art Wilson will speak on the “underground railroad” in IL. Rock Springs Nature Center, 2-4p Monday, 6.6 19th Annual Macon Resources Charity Golf Tournament Charity golf tournament to benefit Bright Start and Kid’s Connection, two programs that help children and families. South Side Country Club. 11:30 lunch, 1p Shotgun start. Dinner & prizes following. For info: 875.1910 or www.maconresources.org

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6.6-6.9 Realistic 3-D Effects: Drawing $35 members, $40 non. Decatur Area Arts Council Madden Arts Center (125 N Water). 1-2p Tuesday, 6.7 Summer Reading Program: Knight for Hire, Karl Kindt III Dressed in authentic shining armor, real knight Karl Kindt III helps kick off A Midsummer Knight’s Read with an afternoon of medieval fact and fancy. Forsyth Public Library (301 S Rt 51). 2-3p New Beginnings Banquet & Auction Auction and live entertainment. VIRTUE House is a transitional home for young women, ages 18-25. Grand Palace Banquet Hall at Heartland Community Church ,424.8808, $30. 6p

Thursday, 6.9 Summer Reading Program: A Royal Invitation Young princes and princesses from across the kingdom are invited to gather at the Forsyth Public Library for stories and fun. The king and his court await your arrival! 10-11a Gardening Program Ages Toddler - Teen, Please Register. Mt Zion District Library, 11a DJ Philbilly Sliderz Bar & Grille, 9p 6.9,6.10 Celebrating Milestones, Embracing New Frontiers 2011 Walking the Walk of Diversity Conference. diversity.richland.edu, Pre-conference sessions and reception on 6.9. General Sessions throughout 6.10. Richland Community College.

Women’s Golf Clinic Designed for ladies of all skill levels. Red Tail Run Learning Center (520 W Grove), 6.9, 6.11 $30 ($25 res), 422.2211. 6:15-7:15p MidState Soccer Club Tryouts The Decatur Park District’s MidState Wednesday, 6.8 Soccer Club is hosting tryouts for the World Ocean Day at Scovill Zoo 2011/2012 U10 – U14 boys and U10 Celebrate the wonder of our oceans and U18 girls soccer teams. Decatur Soccer enjoy Dr. Seuss’“One Fish Two Fish…”. Complex, For info 429.3472. 7p (Th), Scovill Zoo. All Day 10a (Sa) Summer Reading Program: Youth Garden 2011 Help create a beautiful flower garden in front of the library. Plants provided; the Garden Club will provide the expertise. Just bring is your enthusiasm. Forsyth Public Library, 10a-12p Mt Zion Chamber Luncheon Appreciation Lunch, Lions Center. 11:30a Archaeologist extraordinaire, Larry Kinsella! Mt Zion District Library, All Ages. 1p

Friday, 6.10 Ashley Riley - unplugged Long Creek Vineyards, 6–8p “Free Music Fridays” on the Patio Drink Specials - $2 domestic bottles & $3 margaritas. Join us every Friday for free music, great food & drink specials and an atmosphere that can’t be beat. jimmyryans.com for more details. 6:30 - 8:30p

To view even more events go to: www.thrivedecatur.com

Soul Purpose The Beach House, 8-11p

Signed Story Times Decatur Public Library, 11a

The Dirty Clergy Cornerstone Tavern, 8p

Victorian Tea Come and share the timeless love for dolls and bears and all items related to childhood at a tea party for grownups and children. Bring a favorite doll or teddy bear and enjoy talking with other collectors. James Millikin Homestead (125 N Pine St), Donations $8 adult/$4 child, 422.3184. 11:30a & 1:30p

Chicago Farmer and the Great Waltz Donnie’s Homespun Pizza (126 S Oakland), 9p The “Gemini” Princess/Baller Black & White Affair Celebrity Nites (2555 N 22nd St), $10 cover. 9p-2a Whiskey and a Pickle 80’s & 90’s Rock n Roll, Sliderz Bar & Grille, 9p Saturday, 6.11 2nd Saturday Book Sale Decatur Public Library, 9:30a 24th Annual Fairy Garden Tea Party The magic and wonder of “Make-Believe” make this a most enchanting morning in the Fairy Garden. Stories, chimes and ‘fairy dust’ precede a full English High Tea. Space is limited, reservations needed. $24. Mari-Mann Herb Farm (1405 Mari Mann Lane), 429.1404. 10a-12p Dulcimer Club Rock Springs Nature Center, 10a

Relay for Life Poker Run Sign up at Coziahr H-D, 12-1p Kids Fishing Clinic Fishing can put a mind at ease. Spend quality time with loved ones and experience the excitement of catching a fish! Youth 6-10 years of age will learn safe and fun fishing techniques at the cattail ponds. Res req’d, Rock Springs Nature Center 2-4p

Final Drawing for St Teresa Mega Raffle Featuring Rock of Ages. St Teresa High School, 7p Extreme Midget Wrestling Federation Cornerstone Tavern, 8p Jury’s Out Timbuktu, 8p Chris Bradley & Jennifer Hood Lock Stock & Barrel, 9p-1a Trash Martini Chicago’s Hottest 80’s Band, Sliderz Bar & Grille, 9:30p Sunday, 6.12 Bluegrass Music Jams Rock Springs Nature Center, 1-4p

Computer Genealogy Fair Hands on help for Genealogy tree Doug Finke and The West Market programs, web research and Ancestry. Street Stompers com. Learn how genealogists organize Six piece Dixieland Band in concert from their own genealogy, write and publish Louisville, KY. $20, food available. For their own research, and much more. info: 877.4527, www.juvaejazz.com. Decatur Genealogical Library (1255 W The Decatur Club (158 W Prairie). 5-8p South Side Dr), 429.0135. 1-4p Rock the Lawn Ivan Parker Family community concert featuring Maranatha Assembly of God (555 W Sanctus Real, Day 40, and Love On Imboden Dr). For Info: 423.2452. 6p Pages. Antioch Christian Church (5409 E Route 36), 864.3444. 6p

Tent Camping in Illinois Mt Zion District Library (115 W Main St), Soul Purpose 864.3622, 10a Classic rock! Long Creek Vineyards, 4–8p Car & Bake Show Dairy Queen (North) in Decatur, 11a-4p

Highlonesome, Owen Mays & Hellwater $6, VFW Hall Post 99 (925 N Water St). 7p

Did you know? Listing your event with THRIVE is absolutely FREE! Send your info by the 15th to: events@thrivedecatur.com

june 2011 | 21

June Events Pat Bowe Band Pop’s Place, 3-6p Monday, 6.13 Walk a Healthy 18 1mi walk. The first 500 people will get a t-shirt, low fat dinner from Olive Garden, entry into prize drawings, blood pressure screening, and an opportunity to meet LPGA FUTURES players for autographs. Proceeds benefit DMH Heart & Lung Institute. $10. Hickory Point Mall, 876.2850, 5:15p 6.13-6.17 The OZ in Me! VBS Lampstand Presbyterian Church (665 S Airport Rd). Ages 3yrs.- 6th grade. Contact church office 217.428.8839 or visit www.lampstand.net. 9a-12p Tuesday, 6.14 Summer Reading Program: Serengeti Steve’s Reptile Experience Serengeti Steve’s Reptile Experience returns to Forsyth with an entourage of creature pals. Steve’s friends range from the small and lethal (tarantula) to the large and ugly (anaconda). Forsyth Public Library, 2-3p The STILL FUTURES Kick-Off Partee, 5:30p

Thursday, 6.16 Sumer Reading Program: Royal Nursery Rhymes From Old King Cole to the Queen of Hearts, nursery rhymes are full of royal characters. Bring your merry old soul to the library for some Mother Goose fun. Forsyth Public Library, 10-11a Blues in Central Park: Lionel Young Band Enjoy a free outdoor Blues concert on the Central Park Stage! Bring your lawn chairs and your appetite for great BBQ and Blues. Downtown Decatur. Vendors open at 6p, Music 7-10p Mexican Cooking on the Grill Learn how to turn a typical night at the grill into an exciting Mexican Fiesta with La Fondita Chef, Raul Sustaita! Discover Raul’s secret to fabulous fajitas. RSVP by calling Benjamin F. Edwards & Co. at 876.0649. Paulin’s Cabin, BYOC, 5:30p The Sugar Prophets Doherty’s, 7:30p DJ Philbilly Sliderz Bar & Grille, 9p LHP Head to Paco’s for the show after the show...music begins after Blues in the Park! Paco’s Sol Bistro, 9p-12a

Wednesday, 6.15 Swords and Roses 6.16-6.19 Singing, sword-swinging show. All ages. Tate & Lyle Mt Zion District Library, 1p Players Championship For more info see p.12 Mt Zion Chamber Business After Hours Friday, 6.17 Collect Them (425 W Main). 5-7p Live music at Wildflour Somebody’s Daughter - Ashley Riley and Decatur Gamers Jessica Jolly - folk/acoustic. $5 cover. The Decatur Club, 5p Wildflour, 6-8p

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“Free Music Fridays” on the Patio: Billy Galt Drink Specials - $2 domestic bottles & $3 margaritas. Join us every Friday for free music, great food & drink specials. www. jimmyryans.com, 6:30-8:30p Rock Kandy Sliderz Bar & Grille, 9p 6.17-6.18 Family Fest Weekend Forsyth 18th Annual Juneteenth Gospel Festival Celebration Central Park Fr 6-10p, Sa Parade 11a Saturday, 6.18 Golf Ball Drop A hot air balloon will drop numbered golf balls from its basket to the ground. The ball closest to the target wins the prize. $10/ball, $25 for 3. Hickory Point Golf Course, Forsyth. Time TBA Harley’s Heroes Veterans Run If you are a vet, if you know a vet, and you love the red white and blue please join us in honoring them. We will have DAV reps to assist vets with benefits, in addition to the Veterans Run. Coziahr H-D, Time TBD Family Fest 5K Run Forsyth, Registration 7a Family Fest Parade Forsyth, 9a Perfect for Pop! Kindergartners through sixth graders can make a gift for their father. Decatur Area Arts Council, Madden Arts Center, $20 members, $25 non. 9-10:45a

To view even more events go to: www.thrivedecatur.com

Woofstock Tons of dog-gone fun for the entire family with pooch parade, pet art, face painting, vendors, demonstrations, Fido Fotos, and more to benefit Homeward Bound Pet Shelter, a no-kill pet shelter and job training program for people with disabilities. At Macon Resources (2121 Hubbard Ave). For Info: 875.1910 or www.homewardboundpetshelter. com. 9a-2p Art Program - Illumination Ages 2nd-8th grade. Please Register, Mt Zion District Library, 9:30a Father’s Day Canoe Trip Dads, experience something new with your children as we paddle through shallow waters and wetlands. Launch from Sportman’s Park on Lake Decatur. Youth must be 8 or older, and with an adult. Res req’d by 6.15. For Info: 423.7708, $10, 10a–12p & 1–3p

RSPromotions Cornerstone Tavern, 9p

Summer Reading Program: Midsummer Celebration Summer solstice, the longest day of the year, has been celebrated throughout history and in medieval times was often marked with festivals and fairs. Come welcome summer at our Midsummer Celebration featuring a variety of activities. Forsyth Public Library, 2-3p

Shay “The Piano Man” Thiele Lock Stock & Barrel, 9p-12a Soul Creek Pop’s Place, 9p-1a Sunday, 6.19 Pikes Peak or Bust: The Colorado Gold Rush Join volunteer Rocky Fuller as he presents a living history portrayal of Captain J. W. Morton. Captain Morton will give advice on the best way to get to the gold discoveries in the western Kansas Territory in the late 1850s. Homestead Prairie Farm Stage, 2-4p

Composting for Beginners Class Attendees will learn how to turn landscape waste and select food scraps into a beneficial soil amendment for use in the yard and garden. Classroom session followed by a tour of the Scovill Zoo compost demonstration area. $5, Scovill Zoo (71 S Country Club Rd), 421.0291. 5:30-6:30p

Singles/Couples Dance 875.3090, Knights of Columbus Hall, 5p

Monday, 6.20 Wildflour Book Club Barnyard Bash at Scovill Zoo Book: Hotel at the Corner of Bitter & This exciting new event that features your Sweet, Wildflour Artisan Bakery and favorite barnyard animals, baby goat Cafe, 5:30p bottle races, farm animal encounters, and horseshoe games! Scovill Zoo, 11a-3p Bluegrass Jam Donnie’s Homespun Pizza, 8p Mt. Zion Le Femme Fundraiser Long Creek Vineyards, 12–8p 6.20-6.24 International Arts Camp Family Fun- Vintage Base Ball For kindergartners through sixth Bring the family and learn how base ball graders. Decatur Area Arts Council was played in the 1800s with different Madden Arts Center (125 N Water), rules, uniforms, cheers and without 423.3189. $65 members, $70 non. gloves. We will even play a few rounds! 9a-12p Huzzah! Huzzah! Rock Springs Nature Center, 1:30-2:30p Tuesday, 6.21 Oglesby Mansion Open House Poprocks 421 W William St, 2-4p Sliderz Bar & Grille, 9p

6.21-6.25 Violence/Outreach Health Fair Festival Central Park, 5-9p 6.21-6.30 Blue Connection Artist Residency with Kari Thornton Blue Connection welcomes Kari Thornton as their Summer Artist-in-Residence. Visit the gallery throughout the day to observe Thornton’s creation of ceramic vessels and paintings. Blue Connection Downtown (117 N Water St), 428.0112, blueconnection@millikin.edu. 11a-2p

Did you know? Listing your event with THRIVE is absolutely FREE! Send your info by the 15th to: events@thrivedecatur.com

june 2011 | 23

June Events Wednesday, 6.22 The Amazing Dudley Comedy magician. All ages, Mt Zion District Library, 1p Thursday, 6.23 Summer Reading Program: Midsummer Freeze This week is midsummer, with the longest day of the year, so of course we will be talking about … snowmen? That’s right – we are enjoying a Midsummer Freeze, with stories of snowmen that don’t know what season it is! Forsyth Public Library, 10-11a Summer Reading Program: Chocolate Extravaganza It’s the treat fit for a king (or queen!). Chocolate lovers are invited to enjoy all things chocolate at our Chocolate Extravaganza. Discover your inner chocolate snob at a chocolate tasting and win KING sized candy bars while playing chocolate bingo. If you like chocolate, you will love this event. Reg req’d, Ages 13+, Forsyth Public Library, 2-3p Old Fashioned BBQ Phred X Playing. Take-Home Box Available. Reservations Required. $10, RCC Shilling Center. For Info: 875.7211, x740. 5-7p 411 with 501 Buffalo Wild Wings, 5:01-7p DJ Philbilly Sliderz Bar & Grille, 9p Friday, 6.24 Ladies Only Golf Outing To benefit Children’s Museum of Illinois. Hickory Point Golf Course, $75 (includes entry, cart, game, breakfast, lunch). Reg Deadline 6.10, 423.5437. Reg 7a, Shotgun Start 8:15a

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Connecting Youth and the Community Conference Key Note Speaker: Michael W. Stuttley (Retired Judge, Supervising and Cook County 6th Municipal Juvenile Court Chairman, SSDMC Foundation Speaker: Angela Green For info or RSVP by 6.10, contact: Gwen Riddle, DMC Coordinator Decatur Macon County, 972.5274. Free to Attend, Decatur Club. 8a-3p Fashion In The Garden Join Shop on Main for an informal fashion show, featuring modeling, specials and refreshments. Earthen Pottery (201 N Main St), 422.2674. 11a-1p “Free Music Fridays” on the Patio: Chris Bradley Drink Specials - $2 domestic bottles & $3 margaritas There’s no place you’d rather be than the patio at Jimmy Ryan’s. Join us every Friday for free music, great food & drink specials and an atmosphere that can’t be beat. www.jimmyryans.com for more details. 6:30-8:30p One After 909 Sliderz Bar & Grille, 9p Illinois Nationals Lock Stock & Barrel, 9:30p

2nd Annual Bill Horve Save A Life Poker Run Rain or Shine. $10/hand. Free Door prizes, 50/50 raffle. Prizes for top three hands and the worst hand. No bike needed. 201.0661. Sign up at Coziahr H-D. 12-1p Creek Walk Families will enjoy this exciting “off trail” hike to discover the wildlife that live in local creeks. Meet at Rock Springs Nature Center. Wear long pants and shoes that can get wet. 2–4p Annual Warrensburg Fireman’s Cruise-In All you can eat fried chicken, baked potato, vegetable, drink and dessert. $8, Warrensburg Firehouse (420 E Main), 853.3595. 3-8p Summer Solstice Splash Fundraiser for Gallery 510. Silent Auction, Artist Exhibit & Sale, The STILL. $10, Long Creek Vineyards, 12-6p Merchant St Street Party 4p-12a Minute to Win It! Girls Only Sleepover!! An overnight for girls ages 5-11. Join us for a night filled with activities perfect for every girl! Meet new friends, enjoy a yummy snack and watch a movie! $25 pre-reg/pre-pay req’d. Children’s Museum of Illinois, 423.5437. 7:30p-7:30a

Saturday, 6.25 Come Together, Let’s Walk Join the fight against Ovarian, Breast and Cervical Cancer! For Info: 876.2140. $25 before 6.23, $30 Race Day, Fairview Park, Reg 7a, Race 8:15a Riverbottom Nightmare Band Sliderz Bar & Grille, 9p Art Program-Pottery Ages 2nd -8th grade. Please Register, Mt Full Circle Zion District Library, 9:30a Lock Stock & Barrel, 9p-12:30a Dulcimer Club Rock Springs Nature Center, 10a

To view even more events go to: www.thrivedecatur.com

6.25-6.26 James & the Giant Peach (Discovery Theatre) Auditions The Discovery Theatre project is part of Richland Discover featuring 12-18 year old students who are participating in a hands-on theatre laboratory experience. Shilling Auditorium, Richland Community College, 2-4p

Master Gardners 2011 Garden Walk Gardens in Rock Springs, Near West, and West End neighborhoods. Music by The West End Trio, $8 advance, $10 day of. For Info: 877.6042, 3-7p Corpus Christi Parade & Event From St. Patrick’s Church to 300 Block of N Water St. 3:30-5:30p

Summer Reading Program: A Little Knight Reading Prepare yourself for adventure as we take a light-hearted look at the brave knights of yesteryear. Join us on this quest for fun, heroism, and shining armor. Forsyth Public Library, 6:30-7:30p

Thursday, 6.30 Summer Reading Program: Hip Hop Harry Dragon Tales Live Children’s Show. Decatur Civic Jazz in June Dragons come in all shapes, sizes and Center, 422.6161. 3&7p Dinner buffet with music by the Millikin temperaments. We’ll go on a dragon Faculty Jazz Quartet. $40, Tickets hunt and meet some of the friendly Sunday, 6.26 Available at Decatur Area Arts Council, ones. Our very own library dragon is Family Breakfast 424.0721. The Beach House, 6:30-9:30p expected to drop by for pictures so you Knights of Columbus, K of C Hall, $8 can prove you met one of these mystical under 4 free. 8a-12p Outdoor Concert creatures. Forsyth Public Library, 10-11a Central Park, 7-8p Independence Day 1860 Robert Erdmann - Puppetry What were celebrations like during Tuesday, 6.28 All ages. Mt Zion District Library, 1p the Civil War era? Enjoy free ice cream, Summer Reading Program: a music concert and other fun family Richard Landry’s Touch of Magic Bar Bingo On the Patio activities. A concert from the Goosenest Forsyth favorite Richard Landry and With 30% Bingo and 70% trivia, it’s Prairie Players from Charleston 2:30p. his white rabbit Snowball present “The bingo like you’ve never played before! Rock Springs Conservation Area, 12-4p Librarian King and The Lost Dragon.” You It’s free and open to the public. Play for won’t want to miss a moment of this as little or as long as you like. Win great Annual Community Wide Block comedy-magic program starring prizes from Jimmy Ryan’s, Fox/CW and Party/Bring a Friend Day magician Landry and his furry pal. be entered to win an iPad2 at the end of Inflatable’s, free food and drinks, pony Forsyth Public Library, 2-3p the Bar Bingo series. www.jimmyryans. rides, carnival games, entertainment, com for more details. Jimmy Ryan’s the sowing and reaping ministry in Decatur Gamers Patio, 6-8p which we have many great items to Godfathers Pizza, 5p giveaway and more. Invite your friends, LHP join us for church services at 9am or Pirates of the Museum Acoustic. Sliderz Bar & Grille, 8p 10:45am and then stick around for the Ahoy mateys! Children ages 3-11 party afterwards. Heartland Community can come dressed in pirate gear for a Church (3253 N Brush College Rd - across night of games and a quest to find a from RCC), 877.9529, 1-4p hidden treasure. Children ages 6 and under must be accompanied by a Blues Jam paying adult. $6, pre-reg/pre-pay reqd. Bring your own cooler and kick back Children’s Museum of Illinois, 423.5437. with the Decatur Blues Society. Coziahr 6-8p H-D®(150 W Marion Ave), Forsyth, 3-6p

Did you know?

Listing your event with THRIVE is absolutely FREE! Send your info by the 15th to: events@thrivedecatur.com

june 2011 | 25

This Maroa-Forsyth runner was nearly picked off by Danville-Schlarmann

26 | june 2011

Life Here is Pretty Sweet By Jody Cox, Club 501 Vice Chairman

My husband, who is also a part of Club 501’s Executive Committee, is always telling me that I don’t stop to enjoy life enough. Coincidentally, I happened to catch a well-known movie on TV the other day and the main character’s infamous line hit home. You guessed it: “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” Okay, Ferris, I get the message. Life in Decatur has a lot to offer and I plan on taking advantage. When 4:00 hits and the sun is barely setting, I’m going to force myself to pack up early, turn off my cell and hit one of Decatur’s acclaimed golf courses for a few holes. Or I might hit up one of my lucky friends who owns a boat and invite myself to take a spin on Lake Decatur and end the night on the deck at the Beach House. And live music and outdoor festivals are definitely on my summertime short-term bucket list. Club 501 is all about bringing people together and highlighting what’s cool in Decatur and I’ll be the first to admit that I need to start taking our own advice. So when the opportunity to have a little fun presents itself throw out that To Do List and just say “yes”. Attend an outdoor charity event, enjoy some locally grown wine at Long Creek Vineyards, get your bingo on at Jimmy Ryan’s, or go to an upcoming 411 with 501 and meet some new people. There is fun to be had and it’s up to you to start having it. To plan your fun, go to the Events section in this issue of Thrive or catch one of Club 501’s weekly videos (published every Wednesday on YouTube – search club501decatur).

LOOKING FOR A LITTLE FUN? Upcoming 501 Events: - Unofficial Happy Hour - every Friday on the patio at Jimmy Ryan’s | 5-8:30p - 411 with 501 - Thursday, June 23 | 5:01-7p – Buffalo Wild Wings (a laid back opportunity to meet a few new faces and kick-back after work). Check out Club 501’s weekly video updates published every Wednesday on YouTube. You can subscribe to Club 501’s YouTube Channel at: www.youtube.com/club501decatur.

Land of Lincoln Credit Union is the official sponsor of Club 501. Club 501 is a committee of the Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce.

find club 501 on facebook! june 2011 | 27

Visual Guide to

Container Gardening words and photos:

Joli Hohenstein

Containers don’t have to stand alone. Pair two statement pots together to really make, well, a statement. Here two thick Asian stoneware pots with glossy glazes set each other off. Plants can pick up your pot’s tones or completely contrast for a shot of color. This grouping is unified with Coleus—a greenand-gold selection in the grass green pot and a green-and-fuchsia variety potted up in the orange. (Caution: Coleus comes in both sun and shade varieties so reading the tag is essential to finding the right plant for your spot.) The orange pot also gets texture from white Alyssum plus more color from yellow upright Calibrachoa, while the green adds vibrant orange trailing Calibrachoa.

Here’s a different take on the combo, courtesy of Cedar Lake Gardens & Gifts. That center beauty is a blue Duranta tree. Around the base you’ll find the perfect combination of color and class. Centradenia (annual here, perennial elsewhere) nestles around the stem, while pure white Alyssum frames the pot edges.

Get creative with your combos, and think outside the gardening box. Here the wizards at Cedar Lake Gardens & Gifts paired a terracotta-colored Calla Lily with variegated leaves to make a showpiece surrounded by bronze-toned Ipomea (sweet potato vine). A pop of contrast comes from Isolepsis (fiber optic grass or salt marsh bulrush), with its long, fine green foliage tipped in silver nubs. 28 | june 2011

Keep it fun and festive, whether with pots or plants. This one’s the best of both worlds: A colorful mix of Lantana sets off equally bold Mexican Talavera pottery in a quirky tipped over design. Lantanas are sun and heat lovers (they’re perennials in hotter climates), so choose your spot accordingly.

Take gardening to new heights with a big, bold architectural container. This black clay piece is nearly 3 foot high and (even better) frost resistant so it doesn’t have to come in for the winter. (Who’d want to lift it anyway?!) Tall, solid pots need plants that can hold their own. This gardener paired striking scarlet red Calibrachoa with Rubrum (purple fountain grass). The Calibrachoa’s cascading, trailing habit works well with Rubrum’s upright clumping form. Plus Rubrum adds great texture with its fine green and rich burgundy foliage and tufted blooms.

Traditional doesn’t have to equal boring. A classic combo gets an update when planted in this oversized red-toned pottery accented with a simple woven rope design. The perfect pair here: A glossy upright Dracaena spike plus the gardener’s favorite: geraniums. Show the love with an American flag.

Looking for a more subtle effect with no less impact? Go monochromatic like this shot, pairing a unique Dragon Wing Begonia with a chunky Mexican clay pot. The pottery’s interwoven design and terracotta color are the perfect foil for the plant’s glossy green leaves and muted red flowers.

june 2011 | 29

The

Ride

of a Lifetime The Ribbon Ride fights cancer one mile at a time written by Joli A. Hohenstein photos by Alida Duff Sullivan

Nine years ago a group of women riders wondered how they and their fellow bikers could contribute to the fight against breast cancer. More than one thousand miles later, The Ribbon Ride (formerly The Pink Ribbon Ride) is still going strong and now taking on ovarian and cervical cancer too. “Vicki McGorray originally had the idea, and we were all for it,” says Gayla Mattingly, a co-founder with Vicki, Lisa Smith, Renee Stivers, and Susan Daum. “We all had friends or family affected by it—my grandma passed away from breast cancer.” Searching for a way to contribute to the fight, they hit on a ride. “The whole biking community is amazingly bighearted, and these people give from the heart,” says Vicki. “You wouldn’t believe how many poker runs there are from spring to fall and even into winter. We thought, ‘We need a ride for women.’” The first year, less than 50 riders participated; this year they’re expecting more than 500 at the July 9 poker run. “One of the first years we had a guy from Clinton come down,” Vicki says, 30 | june 2011

choking up. “He doesn’t ride, but he’d lost his wife to breast cancer and he said this just made him feel free. He left a nice size donation.” Moments like that are why they started the Ride, she says. “This is a cancer that strikes close to home. This is the one that hits our sisters, our mothers, our friends, our daughters…it surrounds us.” As their conviction strengthened, so did the Ride. “The support from the bikers grew astronomically, and by the third or fourth year, we had to move to Coziahr because the library parking lot [where the Ride first started] wasn’t big enough,” says Vicki.” Sponsors like Coziahr Harley-Davidson, Geo. A. Mueller Beer Co./Miller Lite, Cromwell Group and Zips Flowers by the Gates quickly came on, and they’ve never looked back. “When we started nine years ago, the awareness wasn’t there,” says Debbie Coziahr, a sponsor since the early days. “It’s telling people, knowing you can go and do pre-screenings and maybe catch it. We’ll use anything to have a ride or a poker run, but we prefer to do

something to help someone else. This was a natural.” Previously supporting breast cancer efforts through Race for the Cure, this year the Ride has evolved to The Ribbon Ride supporting breast, ovarian and cervical cancers, much like Come Together – Let’s Walk!. (Editor’s note: See more on Come Together – Let’s Walk! on page 08.) With the Komen Foundation moving Decatur’s Race contract to Peoria, there was no guarantee the funds will go to local organizations. Like Come Together – Let’s Walk!, The Ribbon Ride’s expansion to support three gynecological cancers ensures the Ride’s dollars will stay local. All proceeds raised will go to support programs at both Decatur Memorial Hospital and St. Mary’s Hospital. Organizers are doing everything they can to make the change count in every way. “We’re making our own t-shirts with this year’s new slogan: Sucker Punch Cancer,” says Gayla. “Every year Mueller donates all of our signage and buys our t-shirts, so 100% of what we sell in t-shirt goes to the cause.” The Ribbon Ride kicks off at Coziahr’s Forsyth location. “We put ribbons on everyone’s taillights and handlebars, so in the past it’s just been a sea of pink ribbons when they leave,” says Debbie. As the Ride has grown, so has the impact of that takeoff. “It’s one of the most heart-stopping things I’ve ever seen,” says Vicki. “It’s a half hour with people leaving in a constant stream of pink ribbons.” continued on p.32 june 2011 | 31

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The 120-mile route changes every year and won’t be revealed until Ride day. But riders can count on the traditional Pink Party at the last stop—this year at Timbuktu on East Route 36 in Decatur. Expect raffles, a silent auction for a special handmade cancer awareness quilt, 50/50 tickets, a band, food and naturally, more fun. “You see these big, tough, macho guys come in pink t-shirts,” says Vicki. “They dye their hair pink, dye their beards. One guy came in with a long goatee, and his girlfriend had tied a pink ribbon in it.” Of course for the Coziahr team part of the fun is in getting to the starting line. The whole team has sported pink t-shirts every year. They bring in ribbons, and each department competes to sell the most. The winning department gets a free dinner at the restaurant of their choice. “It’s just a great cause. If you have a little bit more than someone, or even if you don’t, you can always do something,” says Debbie. “It’s evolved from just women, to women and men.” That in itself speaks volumes to Vicki: “It just shows how strong we are when we pull together for a common cause. We can make a difference.”

The Ribbon Ride is July 9, beginning at Coziahr Harley-Davidson. Sign-in begins at 11 am. Cost to participate is $10 a hand. Riders collect a card at each stop, and the top three hands win prizes. 32 | june 2011

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