September 2015 Thrive Entertainment Guide

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE CHALLENGE: TapRoot Restaurant

Downtown decatur does deliciousness right DOWNTOWN DECATUR RESTAURANT GUIDE INSIDE!

FREE

Sep 2015

Lend MDSO Your Ears SPOTLIGHT// 1912 Bridal Fair ART SPEAK// Arts in Central Park FOOD DUDE// Einstein's Bagels Q&A// Katrina Smalley

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS List your event for FREE! Send your information by the 15th to events@thrivedecatur.com THRIVE is a free, monthly entertainment guide serving as your guide to events in Macon County. Published by Showcard Studio and distributed on the first of the each month.

PO Box 6195 • Decatur, IL 62524 217.791.5653 www.thrivedecatur.com @THRIVEDecatur Publisher: Katrina Smalley publisher@thrivedecatur.com The Eventor: Stephanie Zimmerman events@thrivedecatur.com Editor and Senior Writer: Joli Hohenstein Copy Editor: Teena Zindel-McWilliams Photography Coordinator: Sarah Jane Contributors: Stella Carnahan Kim Mangan Heather Meadows Katie O'Riley Rachel Peabody Robin Walters Photographers: Sarah Jane Kim Mangan Robin Walters Layout Design: Showcard Studio Printing: Wood Printing Special thanks to the Macon Resources CAPS Program (Community Awareness, Possibilities & Supports) and ECNO Group (Empowering Community Network Opportunities) for all your help with delivering THRIVE each month!

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

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

02 | September 2015

DECATUR-DOWNTOWN • All Things Beautiful Collectibles and Gifts • Allen Chiropractic Clinic • Ameren Illinois • Avon Theater • Be Yoga Decatur • Bizou • Blue Connection • Board Knight • Central Illinois Title Company • Child’s Play Photography • Citizens Barnes Building • Cohn Furniture • Coney McKane’s • Decatur Area Convention & Visitors Bureau • Decatur Civic Center • Decatur Professional Plaza • Decatur Public Library • Doherty’s Pub & Pins • Downtown Cafe • Downtown Fitness Club • Embroidered Expressions • Fringe Salon • G-B’s CDs • Giggles • Good Samaritan Inn • Goodfellas • Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce • Haines & Essick Co. • KC Hall • Lockhart’s Barbershop • Madden Arts Center • Merle Norman • Millikin Bank Building • Neuhoff Media • Never Forgotten Thymes • Nova Framing/Gallery 510 • Novel Ideas • One Main Place • Paco’s Sol Bistro • Park District • Pastabilities • Rack's • Regions Bank • Robbies Outlet • Salon 402 • Shear Learning Academy • Sloan’s Calzones • Soy Capital Bank • Speed Lube • St Nicholas Grille • Studio 7 Salon & Day Spa • Taproot • The Decanter Fine Wine & Spirits • The Decatur Club • The Newsstand • Tournesol • Victory Pharmacy • Wabash Depot Antique Center • Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe • Zips Flowers by the Gates • DECATUR-EAST • ADM • Archers Alley • Beach House • Boys & Girls Club of Decatur • C&K Custom Signs • Caterpillar • Cedar Lake Gardens & Gifts • Children’s Museum of Illinois • CrossFit Enhanced • Culver’s • Debbie’s Diner • Decatur Earthmover Credit Union • Decatur Surf Club • DMH Family Medicine • Elmer's Ol'e Time Inn • Exsalonce Studio & Day Spa • Healing Arts Boutique & Studios • Jan’s East End Grill • Kroger • La Gondola • Land of Lincoln Credit Union • Linda’s Music • Loretta's Work Boots • Macon County Health Department • Monical’s Pizza • New Look Salon • Park City • Pride Coin Laundry • RC Shack • Reflection Salon • Rendezvous Bar & Grill • Renew Total Body Wellness • Richland Community College • Schaub Floral Display Center and Greenhouse • Signature Salon • Solar Tan • Soy Capital Bank • Star Silkscreen • Sunrise Bakery • Tate & Lyle • The Main Hangar Restaurant • Timbuktu • Tri Manor Motel • DECATUR-NORTH • Accelerated Rehabilitation Centers • Aloha • Area One Realtors • Benny’s Grill • Bob Brady Dodge • Brinkoetter & Associates • Caldwell Banker Honig-Bell • Cancer Care Center of Decatur • Cartridge World • Casa Fuentes • Central Illinois Hand Center • Chicago Title Insurance Company • Coffee Connection • Corley Family Dental • Culver’s • Curly’s Bar • DaVita Macon County Dialysis • Decatur Animal Clinic • Decatur Back & Neck Center • Decatur Family YMCA • Decatur Memorial Hospital • Diane’s Mane Strategy • Dynagraphics/Fast Impressions • Fox & Hounds • Fuji • George’s Skate Center • Glenda Williamson Realty • Golden Glaze Donuts • Grace’s Dancewear • Gyro King • Homeward Bound Pet Shelter • Humane Society of Decatur and Macon Co. • Il Forno • Krekel's North • Land of Lincoln Credit Union • Larry Paul Tanning Salon • Macon Resources • Melanie Schelling-State Farm • Miles Chevrolet • Miles Nissan • Millie & Bo’s Barkery • Monical’s Pizza • My Shipping Place • Northgate Pet Clinic • Orthopaedic & Rehabilitation Specialists of Central IL • Papa Murphys • Party Warehouse • Pho Golden Noodle Bowl • Pla-Mor Lanes • Play It Again Sports • Poage Auto Mall • Pride Coin Laundry • Priority Health Family Medicine • Regions Bank • Sleep Inn • Smith Tire Co. • Soy Capital Bank • Spare Time Lanes • Speed Lube • Starship Billiards • The Teacher’s Lounge • The Wagon • Up N’ Runnin’ • DECATUR-SOUTH • Billingsley BP Service Station • Dale’s Southlake Pharmacy • Decatur Athletic Club • Guadalajara • Kids N’ Fitness • Lockhart’s Barber College • Mari-Mann Herb Co. • Personal Medical Supply • Rock Springs Nature Center • Solar Tan • Speed Lube • The Reserve • The Wharf • Tried & True Tattoo • DECATUR-WEST • Advanced Disposal • Blue Spoon of Oakwood • Bottoms Up • Bourbon Barrel • Cafe Brio • Casey’s General Store • Cherry Berry • Decatur Conference Center & Hotel • Decatur Indoor Sports Center • Decatur Jewelry & Pawn • Decatur Mutual Insurance • Donnie’s Homespun Pizza • Famous Wine & Spirits • First Wok • Fleet Feet • Garcia’s Pizza • It’s Just a Little Prick Tattoo Co. • Jeffrey’s Meat Market • Keystone Gardens & Meadows • Kirkland Fine Arts Center • Krekel's • Kroger • Land of Lincoln Credit Union • Larry Paul Tanning Salon • Leo H. Berger Insurance • Lock Stock & Barrel • Lyle Campbell & Sons Realty • Macon County Farm Bureau • Mi Pueblito • Millikin UniversityAlumni House • Mom's Place • Mystic Tan • Oakwood Tattoo • Pop’s Place • Pride Coin Laundry • Richland Fairview Park Plaza Center • Secret Garden • Sound Check Music Center • Speed Lube • Subway • Swartz Properties • Tasty’s Chicago Grille • The Drive-In Antique Mall • The Glass House • The Winery • University Dogs • University Gas Station • Wethington Fresh Flowers & Gifts, Inc • Whitestar Home Healthcare Services • ARGENTA • Gerber State Bank • Village Hall • BLUE MOUND • Village Hall • Dippin’ Merv’s • FORSYTH • Applebee’s • Architectural Expressions • Area 51 Salon • Aspen Dental • Bard Optical • Baymont Inn & Suites • Colee's Corner Drugs • Country Inn & Suites • Coziahr Harley Davidson • Kids N’ Fitness • Old Book Barn • Petals • Quality Inn • Ramada Limited • Residence Inn • Roots Salon • Speed Lube • St Mary's Family Medicine • Texas Roadhouse • The Fabric Cobbler • Welcome Hotel & Suites • HARRISTOWN • Sanders Harristown Antique Depot • MACON • The Bullet Trap • MAROA • Casey’s General Store • Freedom Gas • Main Street Café • MT ZION • Bliss Salon • Collect Them • Corona’s • Coz’s Pizza • Decatur Jewelry & Pawn II • Del’s Express • Filippo’s Pizza • Good Naber Specialty Foods • Hawthorne Suites by Wyndham • Heroic Age Art Studio • Krave • Krekel's • M3 Salon • Mt Zion District Library • Mt Zion Village Hall • Neil Tire & Auto Service • Pizza Hut • Priceless Smiles/ Styles & Smiles • Russ Proesel DDS • Spa Villa • Temmen Advanced Eyecare • The Fisherman’s Quarters • Unique Boutique • OREANA • Gerber State Bank • Nola’s Hair Salon • Oreana Public Library • WARRENSBURG • Barclay Library • Da Burg • The Perfect Pair Antiques & Salon

FLY DECATUR

in this ISSUE issue #76 | September 2015 www.thrivedecatur.com

travel plans?

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!

BEHIND THE THRIVE

August Out & About

SPOTLIGHT: 1912 Bridal Fair

ART SPEAK: Arts in Central Park

Volunteer Spotlight

FOOD DUDE: Einstein's Bagels

Downtown Does Deliciousness Right Downtown Decatur Restaurant Guide September Events Calendar

Lend MDSO Your Ears

Q&A: Katrina Smalley

Spot the Difference Challenge

THRIVE

is created and printed locally, in Decatur, IL.

04 05 08 10 11 12 14 14 19 29 32 35

WE RECYCLE!

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

THRIVE is printed using 10% Post Consumer Waste, SFI, FSC, Green-eCertified papers.

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

September 2015 | 03

#B E H I N D THE

THRIVE

Much as we’d love you to think this beautiful work of art we call THRIVE comes out this way every month, we must confess‌ We have a secret weapon, in the form of our typo-fighting copyeditor/warrior, Teena Zindel-McWilliams. RCC Curriculum and Grants Coordinator by day, she fights the good fight for THRIVE in any spare time she has left over. Comma splices and noun-verb disagreement, beware!

CONGRATS TO OUR August WINNERS:

Pat Tippit & Ashley Petty

August Answers:

1. Red Solo cup is gone 2. Bass player's socks turn black 3. Bass guitar head turns red 4. Last window disappears 5. Top of lamp is gone 6. C turns to O on tshirt

Play the September Contest on page 35 04 | September 2015

While we can only assume there's a flurry of flying papers at home while proofing our copy, Teena is calm and collected as she points out all that we've missed. Sometimes, she and the Publisher even meet at a fun establishment, like this month, at the Blue Spoon near Millikin.

Out & About

A look back at last month’s happenings

30th Anniversary of Decatur Celebration Thanks to a birthday gift from ADM, Celebration organizers were able to increase the entertainment budget for the 30th Anniversary of Decatur Celebration. Thousands of people crowded Downtown Decatur during the 3-day event to see concerts including Deana Carter, Blues Traveler, Vanilla Ice, Blackberry Smoke, En Vogue, and Kool & the Gang.

Memorial Mural During Decatur Celebration weekend, a mural in memory of Mayor Mike 'Tuna' McElroy was painted by local artists Shani Goss and Jerry Johnson. The mural, located on a building near Central Park, memorializes Mayor McElroy's commitment to the City of Decatur.

September 2015 | 05

Out & About

A look back at last month’s happenings

Tour de Paws The Decatur & Macon County Animal Shelter Foundation and Scovill Zoo presented Tour de Paws August 15 at the lakefront in Nelson Park. Bikers and guests enjoyed canine demonstrations, the mobile zoo, Beach House catering and prizes.

Razzle Dazzle The Razzle Dazzle Parade kicked off Decatur Celebration activities on the morning of August 8. Several bands, cheerleader squads, dance troupes, and area clubs marched in the parade, which also included large parade balloons shaped like a birthday cake, Caliou and an eagle.

Welcomed Redo

Generous volunteers and area companies joined forces with Beautify Decatur Coalition to see that the welcome signs at the City's corridors are getting some overdue attention. To learn more about this and other Beautify Decatur Coalition projects, visit its Facebook page.

NEW!

Introduction to

at Millikin University

Decatur Park District is a proud member of US Lacrosse

September 19 & 20 • 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. • Ages 8 - 16 South Shores Park • $40 ($35 with resident discount) Register at decatur-parks.org or visit the DISC! 06 | September 2015

Vintage Base Ball Decatur's own Rock Springs Ground Squirrels vintage base ball club rallied a win against the Lafayette Park Cyclones of St Louis on August 8. Playing with the rules, equipment and uniforms from the 1860's era, the team pulled off its first win for 2015.

The Brothers Odd A local group of friends who created a dream at last year's Pony Express Days made it a reality at the same show by debuting The Brothers Odd on August 13.

The band came together to kickoff Pony Express Days with classic rock on family night.

September 2015 | 07

08

SPOTLIGHT

by Heather Meadows

Party Planning Time at The 1912 Bridal Fair Brides-to-be and lovers of rustic chic, take note!

The 1912 Bridal Fair is about to take the Bridal Experience to the next level! Set for September 20, the showcase is the next generation of this past April’s Bridal Experience, an event to remember hosted by Aissa North of the 1912 Barn, Jennifer Lange of Hidden Gem Photography and Rachel Wooters, makeup artist.

This first-time event will take place on September 20, 2015, from 1 to 5 pm at the 1912 Barn, located just outside of Decatur in Niantic. They’ll host one or two Central Illinois vendors in several categories, including florists, photographers, bakers, DJ services and tent rentals. At press time, Jennifer reports dozens of vendors confirmed, with more expected. The women are enthusiastic and hope to make this an annual event that grows each year.

Attendees will have the opportunity to win a grand prize (announced at 4 pm), which includes a two- hour bridal shower hosted at the 1912 Barn and photography by Hidden Gem Photography. Vendors will also offer door prizes.

Expect live music and a live remote from Toby Tucker from 1 to 3 pm.

A ticket to the 1912 Bridal Fair is only $2.50 if purchased online at www.1912bridalfair.com or $5.00 at the door. What a great way to explore a unique venue, meet vendors and discover new ways to make your wedding, shower, party or event unique and memorable.

A Bit about the Venue The 1912 Barn is just what it sounds like: a historic 150-year-old property that transports you back in time. Once a working 240-acre farmstead, the estate now treats guests to 103-year-old postand-beam design and architecture surrounded by sprawling fields and shade trees. The 1912 Barn (and vendors) aren’t exclusive to weddings, either – they’re also perfect for baby and bridal showers, family reunions, and all types of parties.

08 | September 2015

Photos: Hidden Gem Photography

Get There The 1912 Bridal Fair 1912 Barn, Niantic September 20, 1-5 pm Tickets $2.50 online or $5 at the door www.1912bridalfair.com Heather Meadows is a freelance writer.

WE’RE TAKING A FRESH APPROACH TO STUDENT LEARNING Join us for Lunch or Dinner on Tuesdays and Thursdays for a student masterpiece.

Reservations Preferred

217.875.7211,Ext. 537

One College Park | Decatur, Illinois | 62521

September 2015 | 09

10

ART SPEAK

by Stella Carnahan

Photo courtesy of the Decatur Area Arts Council.

Get Your Art on in the Park Arts in Central Park is just around the corner!

Come and enjoy this juried fine arts fair on Saturday and Sunday, September 19 and 20. Artists from five states will be in Central Park to sell their artwork: pottery, wood, jewelry, watercolors, oils, acrylic, blown glass, photography, sculpture, fiber arts and more.

Strolling musicians, special guests, kids' art activities presented by Striglos Just for Kids, a special ArtShop for Kids, face painting by The Zoo Crew and local caricature artist Ed Lozano round out this family friendly event.

Decatur has been host to a juried arts fair since 1962 when Barn Colony Artists created and produced an art show in downtown Decatur called the Downtown Art Fair. Later, through a collaboration with the Downtown Decatur Council, it became known as Art on Main. In 1995 Decatur Area Arts Council and Gallery 510 took over the show and renamed it Arts in Central Park. The tradition of a strong visual arts fair remains.

While many of the artists return each year, we strive to attract new artists to add to the flavor

10 | September 2015

of the show. Great weather, interesting special guests, musical entertainment, and fun activities for kids help create a place where we hope you want to come and bring your family and friends to shop, browse, visit, and enjoy a relaxing experience that offers something for all ages.

If shopping for original artwork is your interest, take part in our VIP (Very Important Person) program. All it takes is a promise to purchase something, no matter how large or small the dollar amount, from one of the participating artists. This promises sales for the artists, which in turn brings in new artists each year and retains many of our good artists.

On Friday evening, our VIPS enjoy a preview party complete with Craig Russo’s Latin Jazz Project playing soft jazz in the background, a tent with food and drink and the opportunity for first pick of the artists’ work. A majority of the artists set up and participate in this special Friday evening preview event, and all are set up and ready for the weekend by 10 am on Saturday morning.

We hope you make Arts in Central Park part of your weekend plans. Remember to bring the family! And if you want to be a Very Important Person, call the Decatur Area Arts Council at 4233189 or Gallery 510 at 422-1509.

Stella Carnahan is Arts in Central Park Coordinator for the Decatur Area Arts Council.

Volunteer SPOTLIGHT Terrence ‘TAT’ Taylor Need a mid-day boost? He’s on it. Mr. DJ turn the music up? He’s on it. Need a volunteer? He’s on it. Meet Terrance ‘TAT’ Taylor. When he’s not behind the mic, he’s volunteering with the United Way, Boys and Girls Club, Decatur Park District and at the Annual WSOY Community Food Drive. Giving back to the community is rewarding, and he’s looking forward to his next role as a Family Support Coordinator for Decatur Public Schools. His passion for helping others and improving our community goes beyond the studio and onto the streets.

The 4-day super sale

September 18-21

40

% Off

Paints & Stains

“Why do I love volunteering for the Community Food Drive on October 9th? Because it’s a blessing to be able to bless others… with your time, your money, or your joy!”

- TAT, Morning Show Host/Brand Marketing Executive at Neuhoff Media and City Limitless Ambassador

To learn more about opportunities to volunteer and the United Way Volunteer Portal, visit decaturcitylimitless.com/live

2705 N Water, Decatur Illinois

(217) 876-0108

Monday - Friday Saturday Sunday

7:00 am - 8:00 pm 8:00 am - 6:00 pm 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

September 2015 | 11

12

THE FOOD DUDE

Einstein Bros Bagels:

A Student Secret No More!

by T. F. DUDE

decided to sink teeth into one of their signature sandwiches, affectionately known as the Turkey Bat, on a honey wheat bagel, that was toasted then stacked generously with turkey, bacon, avocado, tomato and a drizzling of a creamy chipotle sauce. I ordered a caramel macchiato (with an extra shot of espresso please) to go with, hoping it would give me an afternoon pickme-up. While waiting to pay and take my things, the delicious cakes and muffins in the small case by the register all seemed to be whispering, “Pick me!” (I always have a soft spot for the blueberries.)

Any college campus can feel like a maze, especially when you aren't familiar with it.

Buildings all begin looking the same and when you're in a rush, and perhaps even hangry, the whole journey can become frustrating. My latest adventure was well worth the struggle, though. My meandering around Millikin University brought me to Nevertheless, I paid, thanked the lady and sat at one some might tasty selections at the eatery of the small tables off to the side. I opened up the tucked in Shilling Hall. brown paper and took a bite that exploded with flavor.

My attention was immediately pulled by The zesty chipotle sauce kicked it up a few flavor delicious aromas of coffee beans and baked notches and made it a sandwich this Dude would put bread. To my left, I happily discovered trays his signature on, too. The macchiato was bold and of bagels and rows of coffee flavorings and delicious. ingredients arranged behind the Einstein After these delicious finds, I couldn’t help but snag a Bros Bagels counter. I looked at the digital blueberry muffin on my way out, (It was giving me screens overhead filled with shmears, puppy dog eyes!) With quick and friendly service, sandwiches and drink options and felt two Einstein Bros serves up bagels in a whole new way, things: hungry and indecisive. and that‘s just part of their menu. This Shilling Hall After some deliberation (who knew there secret is too good not to share, but I think I’ll hold on to were so many kinds of bagels!) your Dude my muffin.

Get There: Einstein Bros Bagels

1184 W Main St, Decatur, 420.6647

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

12 | September 2015

MILLIKIN UNIVERSITY® DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE & DANCE Albert Taylor Theatre Wednesday, September 30 Thursday, October 1 Friday, October 2 Saturday, October 3 Sunday, October 4

By Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa Directed by Tom Robson

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

Admission $12-$14 217.424.6318 millikin.edu/theatre

Shakespeare and comic books collide in this darkly funny action comic fantasy from playwright Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa (TV’s Glee, Broadway’s Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark, Marvel Comics). Good and evil clash in this exciting and boldly magical play.

MILLIKIN MBA Accelerate your career with a Millikin MBA. Real faculty.

Real experience.

Real learning.

Classes start January 2016

millikin.edu/mba · 217.424.3503

September 2015 | 13

Downtown decatur does deliciousness right Coney McKane's the latest to leverage urban refresh Upping the urban appeal comes naturally to Coney McKane's, the downtown Decatur staple that's made a name for itself with its clever, kitschy cityesque vibe and menu. With downtown thriving after embarking on a renewal of its own, Coney's knew the time was right to write its next chapter, says General Manager Bunny Thomas.

"We knew we needed more space—during the lunch rush we'd always have folks waiting," she says. Still, any expansion had to be Coney's-style at the heart. "When you come in, you should feel like you're surrounded by friends."

Located in the heart of downtown Decatur at the corner of E. Prairie Ave. and N. Water (Route 51), Coney McKane's (into the space previously occupied by Jimmy John's) took capacity from 42 to 100, with an additional 14 on the patio.

Warm, dark wood floors and exposed brick walls welcome you, and the newly renovated side has booths, tables, a bar and upstairs seating. The original side of the restaurant boasts additional seating and a coffee bar. Thirty employees (up from 10) stand ready to serve you.

"Pretzel� remains one of their signature menu accessories, as are the sweet potato fries. The Southwest Grill, a personal favorite, is a melted

Downtown Decatur Restaurant Guide Here at Thrive, we couldn't agree more with Bunny.

Currently weighing in with 20 downtown restaurants and more to come, we feel the potential is still growing.

Downtown Decatur will be a destination sought by hungry visitors from far beyond our county limits.

To help us all rediscover our local eateries like a tourist might, here's a list of downtown restaurants from our very own Food Dude.

14 | September 2015

Written by by Katie O'Riley Photo by Sarah Jane medley of deliciousness (and sort of messy as well). Also not to be missed: Flo's legendary homemade biscuits and gravy.

Of course, at Coney's you have to save room for dessert, whether pie or my kryptonite on my last visit, fresh, warm blackberry cobbler with a scoop of ice cream.

As the menu of downtown restaurants keeps growing, so does the potential business for each and every one, says Bunny. "If the place you wanted to go for lunch is busy, you can just walk to another restaurant and get in."

In short, you'll always leave with your bellies full and plates empty!

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 Anna Thai Cuisine 1

Bizou 2

Monday-Friday: 11 am-3 pm, 4.30 pm-9 pm Saturday: 11 am-10 pm Sunday: 12 pm-9 pm facebook.com/AnnaThaiRestaurant FD Fave: Mussamon curry (We hear sushi is

Monday-Thursday: 11:00 am-2:00 pm, 5:00 pm-9:00 pm Friday: 11:00 am-2:00 pm, 5:00 pm-10:00 pm Saturday: 5:00 pm-10:00 pm www.bizoudecatur.com/ facebook.com "Bizou" FD Fave: Tapas Tuesday (Bacon wrapped

253 N. Main St., 542-5972

now available. Food Dude has some work to do!)

259 N. Main St., 422-7000

almond stuffed dates), Sangria (any flavor)

Chinese Tea Garden 3

105 N. Main St., 429-9621, cash only Monday-Saturday: 11:00 am-9:00 pm FD Fave: Anything hot & spicy,

authentic Chinese tea

Coney McKane’s 4 104 E. Prairie Ave., 475-1111

Monday-Saturday: 7:00 am-8:00 pm coneymckanes.com facebook.com "Coney McKane's" FD Fave: Sweet potato fries with a side of

marshmallow fluff (if available), chicken salad

The Decatur Club 5 158 W. Prairie Ave., 429-4200

Monday-Friday: 7:00 am-2:00 pm Thursday-Saturday: 5:00-9:00 pm thedecaturclub.org FD Fave: Spinach & artichoke dip

Dilly’s Bakery 6

231 N. Main St., 791-6128

Tuesday-Friday: 10:00 am-3:00 pm Saturday: 10:00 am-2:00 pm www.facebook.com/Dillysbakery FD Fave: Pecan-caramel twist

Doherty’s Pub & Pins 7 242 E. William St., 428-5612

Monday-Thursday: 11:00 am-9:00 pm Friday-Saturday: 11:00 am-11:00 pm dohertyspubandpins.com facebook.com/dohertys.pubandpins FD Fave: Roasted red pepper with smoked Gouda soup

Downtown Café 8 217 N. Main St., 428-1120

Monday-Saturday: 6:30 am-2:00 pm Sunday: 8:00 am-2:00 pm thedowntowncafe.net/ FD Fave: Coconut cream pie

Jimmy John’s 9

154 N. Merchant St., 423-8323

Monday-Saturday: 10:00 am-8:00 pm FD Fave: #12 Beach Club

Lincoln Square Lounge 10 121 N. Main St., 423-2180

http://lslounge.com facebook.com " Lincoln Square Lounge" FD Fave: The flaming cheese

Paco’s Sol Bistro 11 237 N. Main St., 330-6483

16 | September 2015

Tuesday-Thursday: 11:00 am-8:00 pm Friday-Saturday: 11:00 am-9:00 pm solbistro.com facebook.com/Pacos.Sol.Bistro FD Fave: Burrito burger, seared tuna steak

Downtown Decatur Restaurant Guide continued Pastabilities 12

Subway 17

Tuesday-Thursday: 11:00 am-9:00 pm Friday-Saturday: 11:00 am-10:00 pm Sunday: 11:00 am-7:00 pm hotpastanow.com facebook.com "Pastabilities Italian Grill" FD Fave: Breadsticks

Monday-Friday: 8:00 am–5:30 pm Saturday: 10:00 am–3:00 pm FD Fave: Cold cut combo

134 E. Main St., 422-7278

248 N. Park St., 330-7198

Taproot 18

170 N. Merchant St., 330-6365

Monday-Friday: 11:00 am-2:00 pm, 4:00-11:00 pm Saturday: 4:00-11:00 pm www.taprootdecatur.com/ facebook.com/TaprootRestaurant FD Fave: Strawberry shortcake,

Rack’s Bar 13

112 N. Merchant St., 330-7802

Kitchen open Tuesday-Saturday 11:00 am-2:00 pm & 4:00-9:00 pm facebook.com "Racks" FD Fave: Redneck surf & turf

garden veggie stack

The Gin Mill 19

Robbie’s Grille/Robbie’s Outlet 14

124 E. Prairie Ave., 330-8073

122 N. Merchant St., 423-0448

Monday-Friday: 11:00 am-11:00 pm Saturday: 4:00-11:00 pm http://ginmilldecatur.com facebook.com/ginmilldecatur FD Fave: Swiss hammer (lunch), beef blackstone

Monday-Friday: 11:00 am-10:00 pm Saturday: 11:00 am-3:00 pm robbiesgrill.com facebook.com "Robbies Grille" FD Fave: Bread pudding, tortilla soup

Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Café 20

Sloan’s Calzones 15

256 W. Main St., 422-3300

190 N. Merchant Ave., 422-4940

Tuesday-Saturday: 8:00 am-4:00 pm wildflourartisanbakery.com/ facebook.com/Wildflour256 FD Fave: Dill egg salad sandwich

Monday-Thursday: 11:00 am-8:00 pm Friday-Saturday: 11:00 am-9:00 pm sloanscalzones.com facebook.com "sloan's calzones" FD Fave: Calzone (with your favorite fillings)

St. Nicholas Grille 16 101 S. Main St., 422-4700

Monday-Friday: 11:00 am-9:00 pm Saturday&Sunday: 4:00 pm-9:00 pm facebook.com/stnicholasgrille FD Fave: Provolone cheese log

5

N Water

2 1 11 6 8

N Main

N Church

W William

4

10 3

N Merchant

W Prairie

20

N Franklin

7 E William

19 15 18 9 14 13

E Prairie

S Park

12 E Main

W Main

16

17 N Park

EVERY MONDAY Acting Through Animals (begins 9.14) Actors ages 3-5 will learn basic character development through animals. Activities will help participants work on character development and their motor skills. Field trip to Scovill Zoo. $40 ($35 with resident discount), Poage Arts & Recreation Center [2020 N Oakland] 10-10:45a Fun Run Social run and every pace welcome. 1-mile & 3-mile route options beginning and ending at the store. Visit Facebook for cancellation information. Free, Fleet Feet [1090 W Wood St, www. fleetfeetdecaturil.com] 4-6p & 6-8p

EVERY WEDNESDAY DIGG/Mercy Gardens Farm Stand Come get local sustainably raised fresh produce, and support a nonprofit in the process. Greens and lettuces along with broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and more!

Weather permitting. Free, Macon County Health Department [1221 E Condit St, www. maconcountyhealth.org/] 11a-3p Adult Flag Football League (begins 9.23) 5-on-5. Ages 16+. $170 per team ($20 maximum non-resident fee included); $30 late fee added after Sept. 8, South Shores Park [Decatur] 6-8p

Little Hoopsters (begins 9.16) Children ages 3-12 learn the basic Minecraft Mania (begins 9.21) fundamentals of basketball in a Learn the tricks of Minecraft while non-competitive environment. building your world with a team of Players learn new skills, focusing 8-12 year olds. Register in advance. on teamwork, dribbling, passing and shooting. $48 ($39 with Space limited. Free, Decatur resident discount); add $5 afte Public Library [130 N Franklin, 9.8, Decatur Indoor Sports Center web.extension.illinois.edu/dmp/] (DISC) [1295 W Wood] 5:30-6:30p 5:30-6:30p

Open Bead Night Bring your projects.

Beading Hearts Club [2645 N Oakland Ave, Ste A, beadingheartsclub.com] 2-8p Nine After 5 If you don't know the first thing about golf or haven't played in years, come hang out on Thursday nights and play just a little! 9 holes with cart (clubs available) appetizers, tips from pros, and drink coupon: $20.

Weekly drawings for golf.

Register online or show up at the door. Scovill Golf Course [3909 W Main, 429.6243, golfdecatur.org] After 5p Farmers Market Fresh local produce, herbs, flowers, honey, dog treats, local art. Heroic Age Art Center [135 S Henderson, Mt Zion] 3:30-7p MidState Little Kritters Soccer Story book provided highlighting animal characters who possess unique soccer skills. Learn soccer skills through fun activities. Ages 3-4. $56 ($50 with resident discount), Decatur Soccer Complex [1 Educational Park, www. midstatesoccer.com] 5-5:30p

Search ALL Macon County events at www.ThriveDecatur.com

September

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

Youth Volleyball Skills (begins 9.14) Improve volleyball fundamentals and techniques for participants in grades 2-8. $57 ($48 with resident discount), Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood] 5:30-6:30p (grades 2-3), 6:30-7:30p (grades 4-5), 7:30-8:30p (grades 6-8)

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

Country Line Dance (begins 9.14) 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)

Genealogy with Gail Leonard Getting Started (9.3), Local & EVERY THURSDAY County Records (9.10), State & Storytime Federal Records (9.17), Computer Enjoy art activities, playtime, storytime, and snacks! Do not miss & Internet (9.24). $25, Decatur Genealogical Society [1255 W out on the fun! Ages 2-6. Maroa South Side Dr, www.rootsweb.

Public Library [305 Garfield St, ancestry.com~ildecgs/] 7-8p Maroa, 794.3005, www.maroa.lib. il.us] 10-11a EVERY FRIDAY (thru 9.18) DJ Danimal Friendly's Bar [1935 S Tailorville Rd] 9p-1a

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

September 2015 | 19

September EVERY SATURDAY Farmers Market Central Park [Decatur] 8a-12p Saturday Produce Market Richland Community College [One College Park] 8a-12p Actors' Playground (begins 9.19) Explore improvisational techniques, theatre games and short scenes that help with confidence, timing, and teamwork.

Ages 7-10. $65 ($60 with resident discount), Poage Arts & Recreation Center [2020 N Oakland] 9a-10a Play.Write (begins 9.19) Fun, interactive games; learn how to develop characters, setting and dialogue. Perform your own plays!

Ages 11-18. $90 ($80 with resident discount), Poage Arts & Recreation Center [2020 N Oakland] 1-3p Macon Speedway Racing Doors (5p), racing (7p). $12 (general), free (ages 11 and under), Macon Speedway [205 N Wiles St, Macon, 764.3000, www. maconracing.com] 7-9p EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY Homestead Prairie Farm Tour a restored 1860s farm house.

Free, Homestead Prairie Farm [3939 Nearing Ln] 1-4p EVERY DAY September Art in Decatur Each location with a unique art exhibit. Specific dates and times to be determined by each location.

Decatur Airport [910 S Airport Rd],

20 | September 2015

Decatur Area Arts Council [125 N Water St, 423.3189], Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin St], Gallery 510 [160 E Main St, 422.1509, www.gallery510.org], Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln]

Tuesday, 1 Line Dancing Beginning (1p), Intermediate/ Advanced (2p). Free, The Salvation Army [229 W Main St] 1-3p MU Tennis vs Monmouth College. Fairview Park: Tennis Center [1640 W Monument Hill Dr] 3:30-5p

Books Between Bites Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, www.friendsdpl.org] 12:15-1p Wednesday Women Take a trip to Margaritaville by joining us on the patio! Let your cares melt away as you share an evening with fun ladies!

RSVPÂ jccaulkins@aol.com. La Hacienda [1475 Village Parkway, Mt Zion] 5-9p

Craig Morgan in Concert With Eric Burgett as opening act.

Purchase tickets:Â http://www. etix.comticket/v/6437/richlandcommunity-college-east-lawn.

MU Women's Soccer $25, Progress City [E 6th Progress vs Westminster College (MO).

MU: Frank M Lindsay Field [1184 W St] 6-9p Main St] 4-6p Senior & Retiree Raptor Camp Raptor identification, natural MU Men's Soccer vs Westminster College (MO). MU: history, mortality, populations, intelligence, instincts, habitat, Frank M Lindsay Field [1184 W rehabilitation, falconry, equipment, Main St] 6-8p and handling. Senior citizens & retirees only. Seating limited.

MU Women's Volleyball Illinois Raptor Center [5685 W Hill vs Greenville College - 4p, vs Dominican University (IL) - 8p. MU: Rd, www.illinoisraptorcenter.org] Griswold Center [1184 W Main St] Thursday, 3 4-10p All States Club Interesting speakers and other 9.1-9.3 outstanding programming, as Farm Progress Show well as door prizes and a 50/50 Progress City [E 6th Progress St, drawing. $10 salad or meal, Scovill farmprogressshow.com] Banquet Facility [3909 W Main St, Allstatesrsvp@hotmail.com] 12-1p Wednesday, 2 Chamber Business Breakfast $15 (adv), $20 (door), The Decatur Business After Hours 50 years in business. Brinkoetter Club [158 W Prairie, business. & Associates [1610 E Pershing Rd, decaturchamber.com] 7-8a www.brinkoetter.com] 5-7p Book Discussion American Girl Club We get the books and you read Maroa Public Library [305 Garfield them! Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, 672.3621, St, Maroa, 794.3005, www.maroa. lib.il.us] 6-7:30p barclay.lib.il.us] 10:30a

Bike Night Pop's Place [4335 W Main St] 6-8p Friday, 4 First Friday Gallery Walk Visit the three downtown Decatur galleries (Gallery 510, Blue Connection, Madden Arts Center) to see great art, enjoy live music, munch tasty hors d'oeuvres, and sip a complimentary beverage.

Free, Various [Decatur] 5-7:30p Swing Night Jim Markum's New Vintage Band, 7-9p. Free, Nelson Park [2475 E Pavillion Dr] 6-6:45p (instruction), 7-9p (dance) Friday Night Horror Movie Come see a classic scary movie, “Alice, Sweet Alice�, in a place known as the most haunted theater in America. Doors (7p); movie (8p). $5, Lincoln Square Theatre [145 N Main St, www.lincolnsquaretheatre. com#!movies-/ckur] 7-10p Saturday, 5 NFT Flea Market Never Forgotten Thymes [726 E Cerro Gordo St] 9a-4p Into the Wild: Wonderful Wetlands Hike to the ponds and wetlands for aquatic critter collecting!

Identify samples and learn the value of these water habitats.

Collection tools provided. Register online by 9.4. Free, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, maconcountyconservation. org] 10a Tour Historic Bethel School Tour this historic one-room school house and discover what school was like at the turn of the century. Free, Friends

Creek Conservation Area [13734 Friends Creek Park Rd, Argenta, maconcountyconservation.org] 1-4p

3D Archery Use our equipment or bring yours.

Rotate through life-like animal targets. Basic instruction provided for new or less experienced archers. Ages 10+. Register online by 9.4. $7, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, maconcountyconservation. org] 2p 9.5-9.6 Archery Shoot Monthly club shoot and club championship. Registration (8a-3p) both days. Anyone can participate. $6, North Lake Park [1335 N Country Club Rd, www.facebook. comthedecaturarcheryclub] Sunday, 6 Community Yoga Free, Nelson Park [2475 E Pavillion Dr] 10-11:30a The Search for Ice Age Mammals Dr. Dennis Campbell discusses the search for fossils of Ice Age mammals and various discoveries in Central Illinois. No registration required. Free, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, maconcountyconservation. org] 2p Car Show 50/50 drawing. Dash plaques to first 75 entrants. Door prizes. Rain date 9.7. $5 (car entry fee), Four Star Restaurant & Diner [1100 N St Hwy 121, Mt. Zion] 4-8p

9.6-9.7 Labor Day Book Sale Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, www.friendsdpl.org] 11a-5p (Su), 9a-3p (Mo) Monday, 7 Labor Day Parade Downtown [Decatur] 10-11a MDSO Labor Day Pops Concert Free, Nelson Park [2475 E Pavillion Dr, 424.6318, www. millikin.edu/kirkland] 6p Tuesday, 8 10th Annual Tomato Taste Panel Taste a variety of heirloom and hybrid tomatoes along with creative tomato-based recipes! $2 (donation), U of I Extension, Macon County Office [3351 N President Howard Brown Blvd, web. extension.illinois.edu/dmp/] 1-6p Wednesday, 9 Cover Crop Planting Plan for Success!

See field demonstrations on the different ways that cover crops can be planted. Watch a strip-till rig in action and learn what benefits there are to using it. Have a conversation with farmers who are using cover. Free, Field Demo Plots - North of Progress City [1 College Park, web. extension.illinois.edu/dmp/] 5:30-7:30p

Search ALL Macon County events at www.ThriveDecatur.com

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

The Fabulous Hoedads Labor Day weekend fun. Nellie's Tavern [2717 N Main St, www. thefabuloushoedads.com] 7-10p

Ride for Habitat Restoration 27 September 2015 maconcountyconservationfoundation.org

September 9.9 Real Encounter (feat. on America's Got Talent) Featured on season 9 of America's Got Talent, this ministry of professional athletes, who have perfected skills in Moto, Street Bike and BMX stunting, advance the Gospel by combining their captivating performances of extreme sports and the life transforming message of Jesus Christ. Free. All welcome.

First Christian Church [3350 N MacArthur, 875.3350, www. firstdecatur.org/realencounter] Doors open at 6p. 6:30-8p 9.9-9.10 Mini Camp: I Spy Leaves Take a closer look at leaves through crafts, stories, and an outdoor walk as you explore the textures and colors of the fall foliage. Register online by 9.8. $10, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, maconcountyconservation.org] 1-2p (We, Ages 3-5), 9:30-10:30a (Th, Ages 1-5)

Walk to End Alzheimer's Drive Thru Lasagna Dinner To purchase tickets call Jenelle Hockaday 423-6550 or email: jhockaday@maconcountyhealth. org. $10, First Christian Church [3350 N MacArthur Rd] 5-7p Bike Night The Pourhouse [3925 E Faries Parkway, thepourhousebar.net] 6-8p Shades of Gray Moose Lodge #684 [3190 N Woodford St] 7-10p Friday, 11 Seniorama Free admission, entertainment, prizes, and a parking lot shuttle! Over 80 informational booths for seniors and caregivers.

Free, Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, www. decaturciviccenter.org/] 9a-1:30p Great Dates Free child care with RSVP. First United Methodist Church [201 W North St] 6-7p (Proverbs for relationships), 7-10p (plan your date)

Thursday, 10 Book Discussion The Martian by Andy Weir. Argenta Saturday, 12 Public Library [100 E Water, Argenta, www.aopld.lib.il.us] 1:30p Fido Scurry 5K or 1-mile run/walk with or without a pet partner. Pet Parade, Business After Hours Decatur Earthmover Credit Union dog demonstrations, activities, South of the Border, costume [260 W Marion Ave, Forsyth] 5-7p contest. Fairview Park [1640 W Monument Hill Dr, dmcasf.org/] 8-11a

Alz Fitness Palooza Get your dance on with a live DJ. Zumba, piloxing, piyo, cize, yoga, silent auction baskets. $10 (adv), $15 (door), St Teresa High School [2710 N Water St, www.st-teresahs. org/] 9a-12p Health Fair & Customer Appreciation Day Visit vendors in and outside the store. In-store specials and drawings. Free food and refreshments. Fun for everyone!

Free, Mt. Zion Sav-Mor Pharmacy [1410 Village Parkway, Mt. Zion] 9a-1p Animal Crackers Black, White, and Striped! Our zebras, Chad and Zoe, are the stars of this show! $11 ($10 with resident discount), Scovill Zoo [71 S Country Club Rd, www.decaturparks.org/scovill-zoo/] 9:30-10:15a Argenta Street Festival Third annual art and animal celebration. Downtown Argenta [N North St, Argenta] 10a-2p Dulcimer Club Playing live music. Free, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, maconcountyconservation.org] 10a-12p Book Discussion Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, 672.3621, barclay. lib.il.us] 11a Annual Mel & Amy Memorial Ride Register at Coziahr HarleyDavidson. Coziahr H-D [150 W Marion Ave, Forsyth] 11:30a-12:45p

Twisted Shifters Car Show Pop's Place [4335 W Main St] 12:30-4p

Shades of Gray Moose Lodge #684 [3190 N Woodford St] 7-10p

Fletcher Park Kids Club Super hero games, cartoon festival & prizes. $1 (child), $4 (adult), Fletcher Park: Recreation Center [400 S Henderson St, Mt Zion] 2-4p

The Fabulous Hoedads Nellie's Tavern [2717 N Main St, thefabuloushoedads.com] 7-10p

Gift for Grandparents’ Day Show your love for your grandparents by making a gift, a nature-themed picture frame.

Supplies provided. Register online by 9.11. $1 (frame), Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, maconcountyconservation. org] 2p Special Olympics Outdoor Sports Festival Opening Ceremony Entertainment, torch run and lighting of the cauldron. Central Park [Decatur] 6:15-8p

Brass Transit $25-40 & School age $5, Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main, 424.6318, www.millikin.edu/ kirkland] 7:30-10p 9.12 & 9.13 Special Olympics Outdoor Sports Festival Softball (10a-4p, Sa & 8a-4p, Su), Golf (9a-3p, Sa & 9a-2p, Su). Rotary Park & Hickory Point Golf Course.

Sunday, 13 Cruise 11 Car/bike show to Remember 9-11. $11 (entry fee for bikes/cars), Central Park [Decatur] 8a-3p

Monarch Madness Observe caterpillars and butterflies up close, have an opportunity to assist in tagging monarchs and learn how to help them on their migratory journey. For questions call 877.6042 or email vallhand@illinois.edu. Free, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, maconcountyconservation. org] 2-4p Hurricane Ruth Blues band. Pop's Place [4335 W Main St] 3-6p Ann Downing Harristown Camp Wilson Foursquare Church [7570 W Main] 6p

Search ALL Macon County events at www.ThriveDecatur.com

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

Tuesday, 15 Line Dancing Beginner (1p), Intermediate/ Advanced (2p). Free, The Silas Martin Memorial Concert Bluegrass Music Jams Concert featuring Matt Vollmar Bring your instrument, learn a new Salvation Army [229 W Main St] 1-3p & the Great Romance (also Nick tune or simply enjoy the musical Bifano & the Innocents; Point talents of our volunteers. Open Garden Club 5) with free youth rally prior. to the public. Free, Rock Springs Concessions available before Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Business meeting 10:30a, "How to Create a Table for concert. $12, Decatur Civic Center Ln, maconcountyconservation. a Garden Club Luncheon [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza] 6:30-9p org] 1-4p Without Panicking" 11a, salad luncheon 12p. Visit 2nd Annual Mouse Races Grandparents’ Day us on Facebook at Garden Join us for a night at the at Scovill Zoo Club of Decatur. First races! Race every 20 minutes.

Activities include an oldAdults only. Beer and wine fashioned fall festival with animal Lutheran Church [250 W available. advance or at the door presentations, cake walks, games, Decatur St] 10:30a-1p tickets. Doors open (6p), first race and more! Free (Grandparents with (7p). $20 (entry, food, drink), Holy Thursday, 17 paying child), Scovill Zoo [71 S Family Catholic School Gymnasium Country Club Rd, www.decaturBook Club [2400 South Franklin Street Road, Decatur Public Library [130 N parks.org/scovill-zoo/] 1-4p hfcschool.org, 423.7049] 7-11p Franklin, www.decaturlibrary.org] 1p Family Science Sunday Back on Top Tour Bell Ringing Harvest the Garden Macon Country Fairgrounds [3700 Join us as we pick vegetables Daughters of the American N Westlawn Ave] 7-9p Revolution will ring bells to and talk about their many uses! celebrate the signing of the $5 (Ages 2+), Children's Museum Constitution in 1787. All are of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, welcome to bring a bell to ring. Free, www.cmofil.org] 2-4p Central Park [Decatur] 3p

September 2015 | 23

September 9.17 & 9.24 Technical Theatre Have you wondered how things are made or done behind the scenes? Learn the basics of carpentry, lighting and painting. Ages 12-18. $65 ($60 with resident discount), Poage Arts & Recreation Center [2020 N Oakland] 6-7:15p Bike Night Coziahr H-D [150 W Marion Ave, Forsyth] 6-8p Friday, 18 Family Camp Outs: Fossils Rock!

Dinner around the campfire, an evening tour, animal encounters, train ride and light breakfast. Bring your tent and sleeping bag. $25 (person), $100 (family up to 6), Scovill Zoo [71 S Country Club Rd, www.decatur-parks.org/scovillzoo/] 6p-9a Shades of Gray Elmer's Ol'e Time Inn [2550 E William St] 8-11p Midnight Fishing Bring your equipment to fish at night. Fishing licenses required ages 16+. For ages 8+. Register online by 9.17. $5, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, maconcountyconservation.org] 10p-12a

blown glass, fiber arts, paintings, and more. Kids art activities, Central Park [423.3189] 5-7p (Fr), Saturday, 10a-5p (Sa) 10a-4p (Su)

Saturday, 19 NFT Flea Market Never Forgotten Thymes [726 E Cerro Gordo St] 9a-4p 4th Annual Peanuts 5K Run/Walk 5k walk/run, refreshments provided, entertainment, raffles/ silent auction. Come out and support our little buddies. $10, Fairview Park [1640 W Monument Hill Dr] 10a-2p Making Paper Beads Only pay for grommets. Free, Beading Hearts Club [2645 N Oakland Ave, Ste A, www. beadingheartsclub.com] 10a Super Kids Club Star Wars games, cartoons and comedy short subject and prizes. Free (adult), $3 (children under 12), Lincoln Square Theatre [145 N Main St, www. lincolnsquaretheatre.com] 2-4p Oakwood Street Festival Music, food, and fun. Oakland & Main [126 S Oakland, oakwooddecatur.com] 5p-12a School of Music Collage Concert $9, Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main, 424.6318, www.millikin. edu/kirkland] 7:30p

9.18 -9.20 Arts in Central Park Approximately 80 exhibiting artists Shades of Gray from several states provide a variety of artwork for sale including Elmer's Ol'e Time Inn [2550 E jewelry, pottery, metal sculptures, William St] 8-11p

24 | September 2015

Adult Raptor Camp Raptor identification, natural history, mortality, populations, intelligence, instincts, habitat, rehabilitation, falconry, equipment, and handling. Seating limited.

Illinois Raptor Center [5685 W Hill Rd, www.illinoisraptorcenter.org] Family Fun Day and Chili Cookoff Free shoot to celebrate the end of the year. Chili cook-off during this event. Free, North Lake Park [1335 N. Country Club Rd, Decatur Il, www.facebook.com/ thedecaturarcheryclub] 9.19-9.20 Decatur Train Fair Model trains will be on display and available for purchase! Bring the kids, too, because this is a family-friendly event! $5 General Admission | Children 12 and under are FREE, Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, www. decaturciviccenter.org/events/26/ decatur-train-fair] 10a-4p (Sa), 11-4p (Su) Introduction to Lacrosse Learn the fastest game on two feet! College players and coaches will teach participants ages 8-16 about passing, catching, shooting, cradling and scooping, along with teamwork, scoring and fun!

Equipment provided. $40 ($35 with resident discount), South Shores Park [Decatur] 11a-12:30p Prairie Celebration Tour an encampment of trappers and traders as they demonstrate the skills, crafts, and techniques for creating goods and services during the 1700s and 1800s.

Items for sale, wagon rides, and games for children. Food available

9.22-9.23 Mini Camp: I Spy Deer Feel deer fur and antlers as you learn about Illinois’ largest plant eater. Crafts, stories, and an 9.19 & 9.26 outdoor walk. Register online by 9.21. $10, Rock Springs Park Players Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Participants ages 9-14 will create the set, props and costumes, and Ln, maconcountyconservation.org] 1-2p (Tu, Ages 3-5), 9:30-10:30a then present the one-act show, Laffin School. Vocal work, character (We, Ages 1-5) creation, and ensemble building. $90 ($80 with resident discount), Tuesday, 22 Poage Arts & Recreation Center Non-Fiction Book Club [2020 N Oakland] 10a-12p Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, www.decaturlibrary.org] Sunday, 20 1p Shoreline Classic Spectacuar 15K, 5K, and Tot Trot Thursday, 24 run. $35, Nelson Park [2475 E Business After Hours Pavillion Dr, www.shorelineclassic. Free, Hickory Point Bank [225 N com] 7:30a-1:30p Water St] 5-7p for a fee. Free, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, maconcountyconservation.org] 11a (Sa), 12p (Su)

Alley Tones Blues band. Pop's Place [4335 W Main St] 3-6p Couples/Singles Dance Live band. $10, Knights of Columbus Hall [520 E North St, 875.3090, www.dancingdates. com] 5-8p

Bike Night Bike Nite Sponsors choice announced at Coziahr H-D® Bike Nite. TBD [, coziahr-hd.com] 6-8p

Coloring for Grown Ups (Cocktails & Creations - Adults Only) We'll have coloring crayons, markers, colored pencils and oil pastels that you can use as you Extreme Hunter Challenge learn about color theory, and 15-target course. Registration ways to shade and enhance your (8a-1p). $10, North Lake Park [1335 coloring pages. $15 (member), N. Country Club Rd, ww.facebook. $17 (non-member), Madden com/thedecaturarcheryclub] Arts Center [125 N Water, www. decaturarts.org/] 6-8p Monday, 21 Shades of Gray LSA Golf Outing Moose Lodge #684 [3190 N $150 (golf and dinner), $30 Woodford St] 7-10p (dinner only), Country Club of Decatur [135 N Country Club Rd, ccofdecatur.com] 12:30-7p Friday, 25 Salute to Our Heroes for Summer Restaurant Run Special Olympics You can run, jog, walk, skip, crawl, Central Park [Decatur] 8:30a-3:30p or do cartwheels if you'd like but you can't whine! Free, St Nicholas Friday Night Horror Movie Grille [101 S Main St] 6-8p Come see White Zombie, a classic scary movie in a place known as

the most haunted theater in America. Doors (7p), movie (8p). $5, Lincoln Square Theatre [145 N Main St, www.lincolnsquaretheatre. com#!movies-/ckur] 7-10p

Homespun Reggae: Volume III The Driftaways [STL] + Trent Giger. $5, Donnie's Homespun Pizza [126 S Oakland, www.facebook. comSwiftAgencyMO/ events] 10p-12a 9.25-9.26 Finders Market More than 70 vendors offering fabulous Antiques, Vintage, Handcrafts, primitives, art, boutique, produce, foods, drinks and fun! $5 (Fr), Free (Sa), Progress City [E 6th Progress St] 3-7p (Fr), 9a-3p (Sa) Saturday, 26 The Betsy Run 5K run/walk. Flat out and back runs around Lake Decatur. St Mary's Hospital [1800 E Lake Shore Dr, www.thebetsyrun.com] 8-9a Dulcimer Club Playing live music. Free, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, maconcountyconservation. org] 10a-12p

Search ALL Macon County events at www.ThriveDecatur.com

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

Pumpkin Palooza Special agriculture-based activities will teach children the science behind this harvest season. Annual pumpkin throwing contest! $6 (person), $1 (member), Free (under 2), Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, www.cmofil.org] 10a-4:30p

Ride for Habitat Restoration 27 September 2015 maconcountyconservationfoundation.org

September Family Movie A movie for the whole family the Wizard of Oz. Doors (11a), movie (12p). $5, Lincoln Square Theatre [145 N Main St, www.lincolnsquaretheatre. com#!movies-/ckur] 11a-1:30p Radio Station Kick-Off Music by Tracy Osbome, local performers, speakers and more.

Door prizes. Free, Christ Tabernacle Church [401 W Prairie Ave] 11a-6p Vintage Base Ball: Douglas Cup Tournament No gloves. No fear. Cheer on your home team, the Rock Springs Ground Squirrels, as they play vintage base ball with authentic 1858 rules at Beautiful Trobaugh Field. Free, Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, maconcountyconservation. org] 11a Canoe the Sangamon All equipment provided for this leisurely exploration of the Sangamon River. Register online by 9.25. $25 (canoe), Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, maconcountyconservation. org] 1p Harvest Festival Great food, friends, and entertainment. Bags tournament (4p), Rosetta Stone (6-11p). Come out and join us! Downtown [Maroa] 4-11p Kickin' It Country Boot-kickin' finger-lickin' fun for the whole family! Bags tournament, honky-tonk games, delicious grub, and some good ol' fashioned line dancin' lessons.

Rock of Ages will be performing. $15 (adults), $10 (children), $40 (family fun pack), Decatur Conference Center & Hotel [4191 US 36 W, www. maconresources.org] 4-7p

Prairieland Punishers Roller Derby Bout Double header. Backlash vs Dupage Derby Dames-Onslaught, All-stars vs. Dupage Derby DamesUproar. Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, www. punishersderby.com] 5-9p PUBLISHER'S FAV! Brew Ha Ha 2015

Saturday, 9.26 Enjoy ethnic food and beverages along with great music and games! German food, complimentary draft beer, live music, cash bar of German craft beers, vote for Brew Ha Ha mayor, Bavarian costume contest.

Madden Arts Center [125 N Water, 423.3189, www.decaturarts.org/] 6-11p

Bellies for Bellies Featuring Christina King of Blue Lotus and members of the Midwest Belly Dance Community.

Shopping, henna (6p), showcase (7p). $7 (student), $8.50 (adult), RCC: Shilling Center [One College Park] 6-8p

Voo Doo Lake Pop's Place [4335 W Main St] 9p-1a Sunday, 27 Prairie Pedal Choose from a 20-, 40-, or 62-mile route along country roads as you ride your bike to protect wildlife and natural areas in Macon County. Enjoy a homemade chili lunch and raffle prizes after the ride. $25 (before 9.10), $30 (after 9.10), Rock Springs Conservation Area [3939 Nearing Ln, maconcountyconservation/ foundation.org] 7a-1p Putt Putt Golf Event To benefit the Mt Zion Foundation for Quality Education. Overlook Adventure Mini Golf [2501 E Nelson Park Rd] 1-5p Scrapbooking and Honoring Your Family Heritage Program (1p), meeting with refreshments (2p), research time (4p). Decatur Genealogical Society [1255 W South Side Dr, www. rootsweb.ancestry.com~ildecgs/] 1-4p James Millikin Homestead Open House $2 (adult), .50 (child), Millikin Homestead [125 N Pine] 2-4p

Tour the Oglesby Mansion Encounter the lives of its family members as you discover late nineteenth-century lifestyles and architecture. $2 (donation), Brian Shartzer as Garth Brooks Oglesby Mansion [421 W William, With the "Ropin the Wind" band Decatur .429.9422, and Hillbilly Hangover opening. www.oglesbymansion.org] 2-4p $10 (adult), $6 (< 16), Decatur Civic Center [1 Gary K Anderson Plaza, Peter Harper & www.decaturciviccenter.org] 7-10p The Midwest Kind Pop's Place Haunted History Tour [4335 W Main St] 3-6p Discover the spirits, scandals and sins of haunted Decatur!

9.30 -10.3 $30, Lincoln Square Theatre Rough Magic [145 N Main St, www. $13-16.50, MU: Albert Taylor Lincolnsquaretheatre.com] 7-9p Theatre [1184 W Main St] 7:30 MDSO - Andrea Pope Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main, 424.6318] 7:30-9:30p

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

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

September 2015 | 27

OVER 40 CRAFT B E E R S O N TA P

Friday, October 9

from 5-8 pm, Doherty’s Pub

to benefit Homeward Bound Pet Shelter

$20 PER PERSON Includes (4) 4-oz. samples of beer, unlimited appetizers and soda, commemorative glass

50/50 RAFFLE

SILENT AUCTION

ONLY 350 TICKETS

Buy tickets at Homeward Bound Pet Shelter, Macon Resources, and Doherty’s Pub, or call 217.875.1910

28 | September 2015

Lend MDSO Your Ears

By Rachel Peabody

…& we’ll play you a song as the MillikinDecatur Symphony Orchestra (MDSO) prepares to kick off its upcoming season.

There’s a melody for every ear in the 2015-2016 MDSO performance lineup… and a few surprises along the way!

September is a glorious month for Decatur music lovers with the start of the Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra Program’s new season. Kicking off with a Labor Day Pops Concert in Nelson Park, the 2015-2016 musical selections have been carefully chosen with the end goal – “to make every concert exceptional,” says Michael Luxner, Music Director and Conductor of MDSO.

Continued on page 30

MDSO from page 29

One of Decatur’s many gems, the MDSO is a unique and talented group, combining the talents of community members and Millikin Never Been to students. A trip to an MDSO performance an MDSO Performance? is reflective of the caliber of a metropolitan Here’s what to expect: symphony production but with the convenience of being here at home.

With a more laid back feel, the September 7 Labor Day Pops Concert in Nelson Park will “As with every year, we try to strike a balance feature lighter musical selections. Theatre between what we’ve done and the styles productions are more formal, with the musical we know people love, while also trying new selections chosen from a broad range of styles. things and increasing the level of difficulty,” says Michael.

For all theatre performances, Michael encourages those with a curiosity to come Also in September, plan on attending the experience orchestra for themselves. opening concert of the season on Saturday, September 26, at 7:30 pm. This event will “I was awestruck by the power of orchestra feature Andrea Frakes Pope, mezzo-soprano, at an early age – its power, its sublimity and along with Bloch’s Concerto Gross No. 1 and the variety of the orchestra repertoire – it’s a Mahler’s Symphony No. 4. beautiful art form,” he says.

Other exciting offerings for the 2015-2016 season include a special featuring violinist Rachel Barton Pine and a fall musical production of The Addams Family.

Twenty years at the helm of MDSO have only deepened his love for the art: “Orchestra is up there with Shakespeare plays and romantic poetry, being of some of the finest things the human spirit has produced.”

In Luxner’s final season as Maestro of MDSO, the winter concerts will offer a unique setting Let orchestra strike a chord within you this for new conductor candidates to showcase season – experience the Millikin-Decatur their talents in front of the community.

Symphony Orchestra.

“The guest conductors at the two winter shows certainly add an interesting element,” Michael says. “Along with some planned pieces, they will each get to choose an additional performance of their own, and it will be exciting to see a showcase of their style.”

Adding to the grandeur of the winter shows, Millikin students who are named winners in the October Concerto Competition will perform their winning pieces for all of the community to enjoy. The winter shows are scheduled for Saturday, February 6, and Saturday, March 5.

30 | September 2015

Get There Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra 2015-2016 September 7 Labor Day Pops Concert, Nelson Park Opening Concert of the Season, September 26, Kirkland Fine Arts Center Tickets: Millikin.edu/Kirkland

Twisted Shifters Car Show Saturday, September 12, noon-4p Hurricane Ruth Blues Band Sunday, September 13, 3-6p Alley Tones Blues Band Sunday, September 20, 3-6p Voo Doo Lake - Saturday, September 26, 9p-1a Peter Harper & The Midwest Kind Sunday, September 27, 3-6p

September 2015 | 31

32

THRIVE Q&A

Katrina smalley

Photo: Sarah Jane

Best Decatur food to eat with beer

When Thrive Owner and Publisher Katrina (Kat) Smalley was challenged to run for Mayor of Brew Ha Ha, the Decatur Area Arts Council Bavarian-style fundraiser, she couldn't say no. Her appreciation and support for the arts is strong and her German roots run deep. We asked a few questions to learn more before we all cast our votes on September 26th.

what is your campaign slogan I wanted to go with a strong, proven slogan, with Central Illinois roots. Abraham Lincoln always said "Don't swap horses in the middle of the stream," or so I hear. I pondered this slogan for a minute, but as it turns out, I have no idea what this means. I am now actively searching for a campaign manager.

what platform are you running on Easy question. More art, more beer. Not in any particular order, mind you.

what makes you think you're qualified to be mayor of brew ha ha What everyone probably knows about me is that I love art. Many don't know I'm half German. My mom was born and raised in Germany, and her entire side of the family still lives there. I've visited four times and absolutely love the culture, food and especially the beer drinking! When it comes to celebrating Octoberfest style for a great cause like raising money for the arts, I'm all in.

32 | September 2015

When in Germany, I think beer tended to go with about everything. Here in the States, I'm a little more clichĂŠ. I really dig pizza with beer. My favorite right now is the Bavarian pizza (kraut, bratwurst, onion and mozzarella) paired with an Old Rasputin Imperial Stout at Donnie's Homespun Pizza.

If I'm not in the mood for pizza, my runner up is the Dawg House (bacon wrapped smoked sausage piled with honey Dijon slaw & jalapeno on a pretzel roll) from TapRoot.

Most unexpected way to enjoy beer Although it takes a little patience, beer candied bacon is a shockingly awesome way to enjoy beer. Some say it's alcohol abuse. Some say you can't make bacon any better than it already is. I disagree!

Something people would be surprised to learn about you I can swing a hammer with the best of 'em! My dad and brothers were in the construction business, and growing up I spent as much time on the job site building houses as possible. I loved it! In college while taking a slew of studio art classes, I took to Blacksmithing. It was a natural fit, and I hope to find my way back to the craft one day.

favorite german phrase I'm not sure I have a favorite phrase. I certainly have a favorite word, though!

Here's one my mom learned as a tongue-twister in grade school and passed along: Constantinopolitanischerduddelsackpfeifermachergeselle. If you see me out and about, feel free to ask for the pronunciation and definition.

EARN REWARDS. September 2015 | 33

KIRKLAND FINE ARTS CENTER

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34 | September 2015

SATURDAY, SEPT. 12, 2015 7:30P.M.

SPOT THE

DIFFERENCES for a chance to win 3 Winners will receive:

A $30 Gift Certificate And TapRoot T-Shirt

ENTER BY

Sept. 15

170 N Merchant St, Decatur | 217.330.6365 | taprootdecatur.com

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2 WAYS TO WIN:

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

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