Welcome to Decatur 2024

RECREATION

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EDUCATION

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YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING I N D E C AT U R I L L I N O I S

Greetings!

We write today to welcome you to our community. Decatur truly is a hybrid, mixing sincere Midwestern values with modern urban experiences. As residents, both of us are thankful for our strong Decatur roots, and for the warmth and enthusiasm on display in our community every day. There is so much to discover here!

There's the rich history — from serving as the site of Abraham Lincoln's first political speech to being the original home of the Chicago Bears. And there's the way that history enriches the quality of life and work enjoyed by Decatur's 70,000 residents today.

Decatur is home to world-class businesses, including agribusiness giant Archer Daniels Midland, mining equipment manufacturer Caterpillar Inc., Mueller Water Products and our regional hospitals HSHS St. Mary's and Memorial Health.

Decatur also boasts a wealth of retail shops, restaurants and entertainment options, as well as the recreational fun found on Lake Decatur and more than 4,700 acres of park space, golf courses and ball fields. Each year, our community hosts more than 130 festivals and entertainment events, including outdoor concerts at the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater and theater performances at Kirkland Fine Arts Center and the new Virginia Rogers Theatre, both located on Millikin University's campus.

Millikin University has been a vital part of the community for over 120 years offering state-ofthe-art facilities, excellent faculty committed to teaching and a quality educational experience sought after by thousands of college students. Consistently listed in the top tier of national university rankings, Millikin's strong link to our community provides valuable opportunities for students in all disciplines.

We hope you enjoy reading about the unique places and personalities in our community and take the time to discover all that Decatur has to offer. We're sure you'll like what you see.

Sincerely,

JULIE MOORE WOLFE

DR. JAMES M. REYNOLDS

Mayor, City of Decatur, Ill.

President, Millikin University

Decatur continues to be a hotbed of agricultural research and advanced industrial technologies that feed and fuel our world. New companies are establishing themselves in Decatur and existing companies are expanding their footprint – all with a focus on sustainability and green initiatives.

A lively downtown and other urban areas offer fresh living spaces mixed in with premier dining, craft beer & cocktails, and stellar entertainment.

Over 2000 acres of parks and trails and easy lake access give residents the chance to get outside to play. Add in top-notch education facilities and a very affordable cost of living and you will quickly see Decatur's appeal as a well-rounded community poised for the future. There is no better time to live in Decatur and experience our City's growth!

ENJOY DECATUR!

CITY INFORMATION 217-424-2700 | DECATURIL.GOV

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Owner and publisher Beth E. Stringer Contributing Editor Julie Collins Bates Cultural Arts Editor Terrie Potter Graphic Design Shani Goss, Goss Advertising Web Design Tronnie Goss, Goss Advertising

M A G A Z I N E

Welcome to Decatur is published annually by Decatur Magazine and is distributed through local business and industry to aid in their recruitment and relocation efforts.

For more information about moving to the Decatur area contact the City of Decatur Resident Information at 217-424-2700 or go to www.decatur.il.gov.

For advertising inquiries or to direct questions and comments about the magazine, contact Decatur Magazine at 217-423-0422 or email publisher@decaturmagazine.com.

Copyright© 2024 Decatur Magazine™ All rights reserved.

Reproduction is whole or in part without written consent is prohibited.

Decatur, Illinois is a unique place. Geographically, we're located smack dab in the middle of things. With our acres of farm fields and prairie, we typify the nation's heartland. New products and innovative technologies are developed here, and a vast network of roads and rails efficiently link our products to global destinations that feed and fuel the world.

But there's a softer side to our city, too, and it's defined by the spirit of the people who live and work here. Their energy, optimism, talent, vision, and just plain hard work form the true heart of Decatur, and guide our city's future.

Browse these pages for a compelling snapshot of our community that creates a visual portrait of who we are and where we're going. Much like the uplifted gaze captured on Commodore Stephen Decatur's statue, we look forward to the future, too, and want to welcome you to our wonderful city.

YOUR FRIENDS IN DECATUR It has been said that moving day can be one of those times that make or break friendships. A true friend will help. The City of Decatur is here for you, too. Call or visit the official city website for all the tools you need to make your move a little easier. To learn more about the city and schedule municipal services, go to www.decaturil.gov or call resident information at 217-424-2700.

DIGITAL EDITION Easily browse the pages of this guide online with shared links to popular local websites at www.decaturmagazine.com

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10 Fun Central

14 Creative Climate

44 Centered On Each Other

Miles of Lake Decatur shoreline and waves of water recreation; acres of parks and green space; and sports scenes played out on soccer fields, golf courses, tennis courts and ball fields – make Decatur the center for fun.

The entire city is our stage, where art galleries host rare exhibits right along with the bright splashes of student watercolors; curtains rise on internationally-known performers and local thespians; and cultural heritage is celebrated in song, dance, and sculpture.

We put words into action. Decaturites show philanthropy through the collaborative ways we team up to donate time, talent and treasure today in the spirit of our community's health and wellbeing in the future.

18 Preserving Our Past We walk the same blocks tread by Abraham Lincoln, and surround ourselves with the successes of Decatur's founding families. Experience history through our eyes, and you'll see homesteads restored to their original grandeur and museums brimming with yesteryear treasures.

22 Walk Through Time Experiencing part of Decatur's past can be as simple as a walk around the block. The stately homes in Millikin Place take a bow to historic architecture that is beautifully preserved.

36 Calling All Kids Learn to play is our motto. Whether your children want to take up a musical instrument, dance on stage, master a sport, or discover the world around them, after-school programs offer them the chance to grow.

48 Good Neighbors Look at a map of the Decatur area and you'll see a patchwork quilt of communities – neighborhoods with a history, a personality, and a story to tell.

Home to historic bungalows, stately mansions, lakeside retreats and new suburban expansion, they weave the fabric of an appealing place to live.

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DECATUR AT A GLANCE PARKS & RECREATION ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT HISTORY & MUSEUMS AREA MAP - CENTER SPREAD EVENTS, FAIRS & FESTIVALS EDUCATION HEALTH & WELLNESS HOMES & GARDENS CITY LINKS

2024 EVENTS

DINING

Craft Beer Festival

Anna Thai Exotic cuisine 253 N. Main

Central Park May 10-11

Arts in Central Park September 13-15

Tree Lighting Ceremony Decatur Civic Center November 23

Lights of Christmas Parade November 30

Christmas Walk December 4

Jimmy John's Freaky Fast 154 Merchant Street

Back Home Boutique Clothes & Accessories 124 Merchant Street

Gallery 510 Art gallery/frame shop 160 E. Main

Bobbie Lanes BBQ 445 N. Franklin St.

Lincoln Lounge It’s All Greek 121 N. Main

Bella & Ro Boutique Clothing for Women & Kids 151 N. Water St.

Giggles Fun and games card shop 112 Merchant Street

Caddy Shack Golf & Grub 231 N. Main

Napoli's Italian Food 134 E. Main

Brass Horn Men’s Clothier 108 E. Prairie

gK9 wine & spirits 225 N. Water St.

Coney McKanes All-American Eatery 104 E. Prairie

River Coffee Company Coffeehouse & Café 101 N. Main

Brass Horn Kids Kid’s Clothier 116 E. Prairie

Linenwood Boutique Womenswear & accessories 117 N Main

Decatur Brew Works 102 E. William

Robbies Grille Unique relaxed atmosphere 122 Merchant Street

Brass Horn Too Women’s Clothier 112 E. Prairie

Madden Arts Center Anne Lloyd Gallery Blue Connection Gallery 125 N. Water

TapRoot American Cuisine 170 Merchant Street

Dali Bliss Salon & Boutique 159 W. Main

SHOPPING

Decatur Coin & Jewelry Coin Collections and Vintage Jewelry 104 N. Main

Penelope Boutique Women's Clothing 135 E. Prairie

Del’s Popcorn, Popcorn & Sweets 142 Merchant Street

Raupp's Shoes Footwear for Men & Women 139 N. Water

Flora Gems Custom Designs & Estate Jewelry 101 N. Water

Shop on Main Women’s Clothier 407 N. Main

Doherty's Pub & Pins Irish Food & Spirits 242 E. William Donnie’s Homespun Pizza 190 Merchant Street Downtown Café Down home delicious 217 N. Main The Gin Mill Prime steaks & cocktails 124 E. Prairie The Hall at Five-Twenty (AKA KC Hall) 520 E. North St. 217-422-2624

202 E. NORTH ST. | 217-423-7000

All Things Beautiful Collectibles & Gifts 225 N. Main The ArtFarm Handmade Gifts & Home Goods 252 N. Park

Murphy Co. Kitchen & Home Decor 163 N. Water

Tournesol Gifts inspired by nature 134 Merchant Street

decatur at a glance

DEMOGRAPHICS POPULATION (2022 US CENSUS EST.) 101,483 Macon County 69,646 Decatur 3,683 Forsyth 5,920 Mt. Zion

HOUSING Households Macon County Median Home Value Average Apartment Rent Median HH Income Cost of Living Index

43,264 $105,900 $719/month $55,954 82.7 (low, US avg. 100)

TOP EMPLOYERS Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) Caterpillar (CAT) Decatur Memorial Hospital (DMH) Decatur Public Schools (DPS 61) HSHS St. Mary's Hospital Millikin University The Kelly Group Primient Ameren Illinois Norfolk & Southern Mueller Company Bodine Electric

LOCATION Positioned at the junction of Interstate 72 and Route 51, Decatur offers convenient access to major metropolitan areas and other central Illinois communities within easy driving distance.

TRAVEL Distance from Decatur in miles Bloomington-Normal 45 Champaign-Urbana 42 Springfield 36 Chicago 179 Indianapolis 165 St. Louis 120 Kansas City 344 Average commute time in Decatur is 18 minutes.

CLIMATE Average Temperature

Winter 31 F Summer 75 F

Average Annual Precipitation

Rainfall 40 inches Snowfall 13 inches

Comfort Index 7.2/10

Sunny Days 219

HEALTH CARE FACILITIES Hospitals Total Beds Doctors Dentists

Decatur Memorial Hospital St. Mary's Hospital 382 478 73

COMMUNITY FACILITIES 7 Art Galleries 8 Antique Centers 7 Museums 8 Performance Venues 46 (2,000 acres) City Parks 5 (3,600 acres) Conservation Areas 6 Public Gardens 16 miles Bike Trail 2 Dog Park 2 Disc Golf Course 2 public/2 private Golf Courses 2 Miniature Golf Course Climbing Wall/Ropes Course 2 1 Water Park 1 Children’s Museum 1 Zoo 25 public/2 private Tennis Courts 1 Bowling Facilities 1 skate park Skateboarding 10 public, 2 private Pickleball Courts 1 indoor rink Ice Skating 18 Football/Soccer Fields 34 Ball Diamonds 20 Lighted Ball Diamonds 3 outdoor/1 indoor Sports Complex Lake Decatur Water Access Sangamon River Lake Shelbyville Clinton Lake

To learn about business opportunities, available resources and incentives contact the Economic Development Corporation of Macon County at 217-422-9520 or go to www.decaturedc.com .

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FUN CENTRAL Acres of parks and nature trails; miles of Lake Decatur shoreline and waves of water recreation; and sports scenes from youth hockey to tennis and golf — make Decatur the center for fun.

Lake Decatur Much of Decatur's story links to our lake.

Created in 1922, Lake Decatur established itself as the state's largest artificial body of water with a total of 2,800 acres and a 30mile shoreline.

Today, roles as the city's primary water source, recreational hub, and wildlife haven reflect a unique partnership between the City of Decatur, which owns the Lake, and the Decatur Park District, principal owner of its 2,000-acre shoreline. Generous public access affords plenty of boating and fishing, parks, wildlife vistas, and flyway observation decks.

Boating is a popular pastime on Lake Decatur for sailing, cruising or fishing. Home to over twenty fishing tournaments each year, the lake draws visitors from across the country. The Commodore Decatur Yacht Club and a host of other boat clubs provide private boat slips and organized events for members. continued on next page

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The community shares a vested interest in this vital and historic resource, and plans for continued development include a proposed $35 million lake enhancement project that includes a rejuvenated new lakefront with retailers, restaurants, amphitheater and condominiums.

The first phase, completed in summer 2011, includes a dog park, adventure trail, disk golf and other fitness amenities in Nelson Park.

The Beach House promenade and new marina on the lakefront are complete. Overlook Adventure Park includes the mini-golf complex, ropes course, batting cages and new aquatic center. Plans for a revamped marina with additional boat slips and amenities are underway.

Great Outdoors Decatur presents a panorama of “green space:” Over 5,000 acres fit for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, sledding, golfing, horseback riding, camping, birding, picnicking — or simply relaxing. And with two dog parks, there's even ample play space for man's best friend!

Six community and 30 neighborhood parks — a total of 2,000 green acres — comprise the Decatur Park District's outdoor recreation system. Friendly neighborhood “pocket parks” sport sandboxes and swings, while longtime favorites like Fairview Park, where nostalgia is among nature's gifts, have charmed residents for decades. Restored to its 1950's glory, Fairview's Dreamland Lake transports many Decaturites to summer days spent fishing with Grandpa and feeding the ducks or winter afternoons ice-skating with a sweetheart. New memories are made here every day, too, as the “rolls” from Fairview's most recent addition — a Skate Park built to spec for local skateboarders with banked wedges, pipes and ramps — and the shouts of wintertime sledders on Cannonball hill attest.

Sixteen miles of trail way connect nature's landscapes and beckon outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Park paths follow terrain ranging from abundant woodlands and rolling meadows to unspoiled prairie and lush greenways bordering the Sangamon River and Stevens Creek. A ten-foot wide, handicapped accessible bikeway spans 3.2 miles and connects Fairview and Kiwanis parks and the Rock Springs nature area. A new bikeway extension was completed in the fall that extends north from the Fairview Park trail to connect to Forsyth.

Protecting nature's bounty is a priority for our community as well, and much of its guardianship lies with the Macon County Conservation District, whose mission to acquire, maintain, and restore natural areas and cultural sites embraces 3,200 acres of nature, wildlife, and outdoor recreation.

Five tracts — each with unique geography, habitat, history, and recreational opportunities — fall under the District's auspices in Macon County, including Rock Spring Nature Center, and Friends Creek, Sand Creek, Fort Daniel and Griswold Conservation Areas.

Sporting Life Complementing this relatively spontaneous side of the great outdoors is the community's invigorating array of organized athletic activities — a range well suited to participants or spectators. In addition to one of the nation's premiere park systems, the Decatur Park District also manages 58 baseball diamonds, dozens of tennis and basketball courts, fourteen soccer fields, and two public golf courses.

Decatur's complexes and sports facilities host competitive events ranging from swim, hockey, and gymnastics, to cheerleading, cross country, soccer, disc golf and pickleball.

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Golf Rated 18th in the nation by Golf Digest Magazine for accessibility and affordability, Decatur is right on par with two award-winning public golf courses. The flat, wide fairways of Hickory Point Golf Course, situated on Decatur's north side, challenge both beginner and experienced golfers. Designed by Roger Packard, Hickory Point features a lighted driving range and a special, six-hole short course.

The newest star in our golf galaxy is Red Tail Run, designed by the legendary Raymond Floyd. With large, undulating greens, wide rolling fairways, and native prairie grasses and plants, and serving as Decatur's Audubon-sanctioned golf course, Red Tail Run is in synch with the environment — and with enthusiastic golfers.

Two private clubs in Decatur, the Country Club of Decatur and South Side Country Club, offer championship golf for members on their manicured 18-hole courses managed by PGA professionals.

Play Ball With five lighted softball/baseball diamonds and four illuminated volleyball courts, Rotary Park, the city's premier sports complex, sees its fair share of competitors, too. Ideal for large tournaments, Rotary Park hosts teams from throughout the region and state, as well as just for fun leagues for locals during the summer.

Take it indoors Take a look at recreation from the inside out, and you'll find spaces as expansive as our great outdoors. Decatur's Civic Center, host to meetings and expositions by day, gets “cool” on evenings and weekends, when families and friends take to its indoor ice arena. The rink also is headquarters for the Decatur Flames, a competitive hockey league comprised of more than 200 area youth ages four through high school, and part of the Decatur Youth Hockey Association.

With 87,000 square feet of space, the Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) has indoor recreation covered under one impressive roof — from two gymnasiums, a four-lane competitive grade track, dance studios, and batting/pitching cages to a climbing wall, indoor golf center and weight room.

On the city's north side is the recently expanded Greater Decatur YMCA, with racquetball courts, indoor swimming, Wellness Center, personalized training programs, a wide array of fitness classes, and on-site childcare.

College and Prep Sports Spectators find action, too, with Decatur-area teams providing plenty to watch. At the college level, we cheer on the Big Blue of Millikin University, whose men's and women's teams compete in football, basketball, baseball, softball, cross-country, golf, soccer, swimming, tennis, track and field, volleyball, and wrestling as part of the CCIW (College Conference of Illinois-Wisconsin.) Whenever the "Big Blue" brings home another national championship, cheers echo throughout the city.

And whether it's decades-old high school bragging rights between the Eisenhower Panthers and the MacArthur Generals, or a spirited game between the past Illinois High School Association Class 2A State Champions St. Teresa Bulldogs and Maroa-Forsyth Trojans, bleachers are packed and loyalties run deep.

More Places to Play Take a walk on the wild side at Scovill Zoo, home to wild and domestic animals from around the world. The Z.O. & O. Express Train winds through the 15-acre site and no visit is complete without a ride on the Endangered Species Carousel. The Zoo hosts special family events (like Boo at the Zoo in October) and educational programs at the Shilling Environmental Center year round. Annual family memberships are available.

Another long-time favorite, the Children's Museum of Illinois, bills itself as a place where “children play to learn, and adults learn to play.”

Ranked among the top 25 children's museums in the country by Child magazine, the facility spans two floors of interactive exhibits and 10,000 square feet of exhibit space. Situated throughout the Museum, interactive stations encourage youngsters to be whoever they imagine — pilot, builder, banker, or scientist. Ten permanent exhibits complement traveling exhibits and special projects.

Windows to other worlds also open at Rock Springs Nature Center, a 1,350-acre site situated in the midst of Rock Springs Conservation Area.

The Children's Awareness Room acquaints youngsters with residents of prairie, forest, and aquatic environments, and encourages them to “spy” on new friends through the Room's expansive window. Interpretive staff members are always on hand to help translate local critter dialogue.

At Overlook Adventure Park, you’ll find a new 36-hole miniature golf complex designed for all skill levels, along with a ropes course and batting cages. Splash Cove, the new family aquatic center includes slides, zip lines and lazy river.

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CREATIVE CLIMATE Our venues are a lively mix, where art galleries host rare exhibits right alongside bright splashes of local students' watercolors; curtains rise on internationally-known performers and local thespians; and cultural heritage is celebrated in song, dance, and sculpture. Throughout the Decatur area, talent radiates and spotlights shine on artists and performers of all ages.

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First Friday Art Walk Downtown Decatur is home to five art galleries, all within easy walking distance of each other. This close proximity inspired gallery walks on the First Friday of every month where you'll find displays of original art, entertaining musicians, and culinary delights year round. Take a stroll through Gallery 510, Blue Connection and the Madden Art Center where creativity takes center stage.

Sounds of Music If you love music the way we do, tune in. From small intimate recitals to music halls filled to capacity, Decatur's eight performance venues offer everything from opera to rock and roll.

One of the region's most cherished annual traditions is Vespers, where 300 Millikin University student voices and instrumentalists come together in song to celebrate the sounds of the holiday season. For the schedule of performances go to www.decaturmagazine.com/calendar.

Take A Tour Take to the streets for a creative spin on history. Go on a walking tour of Decatur's historic architecture or drive past stunning displays of public art, like the original sculpture created by Preston Jackson as a tribute to African American Civil War soldiers, or the downtown painted wall murals depicting significant moments in Decatur’s history.

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Curtain Calls Thousands of patrons are drawn to the annual Kirkland Performing Arts series, which typically includes music, comedy, and dance performances with appeal for the entire family. Nationally acclaimed musical tours have included Rent, Grease, Evita, Cats, Jesus Christ Superstar, and many others. Located on the Millikin University campus, Kirkland Fine Arts Center is joined by Albert Taylor Theatre, Virginia Rogers Theater and Pipe Dreams Studio as the perfect venues for University student performances ranging from comedy to drama, and musicals to dance.

Another talented troupe are the Decatur Community Dancers, whose performance “home” is Richland’s Shilling Auditorium. In addition to theatre productions, this 325-seat venue also hosts lectures, film series, annual business meetings, and community stage productions. Theatre 7, Decatur's all-volunteer community theater troupe, performs in the Decatur Civic Center theater. More than 150 Theatre 7 members perform on-stage and assist behind the scenes, and are supported by hosts of local businesses — and enthusiastic audiences.

Perfect Harmony Ours is a musically gifted community, where the local composite of talent — ranging from Millikin University instrumental faculty to high school jazz bands — is literally music to our ears. Hitting a particularly high note within this musical range is the Decatur Municipal Band — formed in 1857 and believed to be the nation’s oldest non-military band in continuous service.

Residents count on the sounds of their Municipal Band at parades, special events, and summertime concerts in Central Park. Another rewarding experience for musicians and audiences alike is the Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra (MDSO), an ensemble comprised of Millikin University instrumental faculty, students, and freelance musicians.

Opening receptions unveiling new exhibits.

Anne Lloyd Gallery 125 North Water Blue Connection 117 North Water Gallery 510 160 East Main

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PRESERVING THE PAST It's no stretch to say history surrounds us, and the legacy of those who came before is easy to find. It's carved in building facades, and etched on street signs. We invest, visit, volunteer, and support museums and restorations to honor, remember, and learn from those early pioneers.

We walk the same blocks tread by Abraham Lincoln, and surround ourselves with the successes of Decatur's founding families.

Experience history through our eyes, and you'll see homesteads restored to their original grandeur; museums brimming with yesteryear treasures; and monuments built to pay tribute to fallen heroes. continued on next page

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Lincoln in Decatur At age 21, our nation's 16th president first laid eyes on Decatur in March 1830, his first home in Illinois. Through the next three decades, the fledgling attorney – and the young city – would continue to intersect, with Decatur ultimately playing a pivotal role in Lincoln's political destiny. Today, you can trek “Honest Abe's” path at 16 Wayside Exhibits throughout the community that tell the story of his journey to the White House. Ten of the exhibits are located in downtown Decatur for a convenient selfguided walking tour.

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Explore & Learn Our region has a culturally rich heritage of thinkers, dreamers, inventors and leaders, and you can understand why when you come here. You, too, can experience the influence of our forefathers by visiting lovingly restored mansions, museums and antique centers brimming with treasures that preserve the past for future generations. The James Millikin Homestead and Richard Oglesby Mansion offer monthly tours and open houses. The Macon County Museum Complex is home to a prairie village, Lincoln Courthouse and historical artifacts and the Homestead Prairie Village at Rock Springs Nature Center tell the story of the region's early settlers.

When Hieronymus Mueller emigrated to the U.S. from Germany, his brothers who lived in Freeport, Illinois, advised him to “pick a good town with a railroad and grow with it. Decatur, a town south of here, is at the junction of two railroads. Go there and grow up with the town.”

A gunsmith and machinist, Mueller became an inventor — answering practical needs of a world entering the industrial age. Mueller Company retained its family ownership until 1986, and the company remains a thriving enterprise today. Located on the Mueller Company grounds along Eldorado Street is the Hieronymus Mueller Museum, just the place to meet Decatur’s “unsung genius” and holder of over 500 patents. This eclectic spot shows how Mueller and his descendents invented and manufactured everything from the first sanitary drinking fountain to fire hydrants. There’s even an example of one of the first Mueller-Benz automobiles.

The restored mansion at 361 N. College Street is home to the Staley Museum that preserve the history of the A. E. Staley Family, The Staley Historic Home and the A. E. Staley Mfg. Co., especially as it pertains to the history of the city of Decatur and the larger agricultural community. The Museum serves as a repository of information, historical documentation and memorabilia, as well as a cultural and educational contributor to the community of Decatur.

To learn more about the impactful history of the Decatur area including museums, antique centers and sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places, go to www.decaturcvb.com

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by jan mathew photography by curt knapp & gary sebens

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Developed and built from around 1909 to 1921 and anchored by the Millikin Homestead, this small but spacious seven-lot residential area was home to families that walked its street and shaped our city: The Millikins, Muellers, Gradys.

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But within the broad context of local history, #5 Millikin Place — surrounded by lush greenery and tucked along the street's cul-de-sac — tells its own sweet circle-of-life story.

Splash a bit of water on the front walkway cement, and you'll see “1934” and the hint of an infant handprint belonging to artist and sculptor Lucien Kapp, who has lived at #5 for 80 of his 86 years.

Considerably more visible are the small handprints of Kapp's grandchildren, Lilly and Oliver, dated 2009 and preserved in cement near the side door.

“This house told me what it wanted,” says Kapp of the intricate restoration process that returned the family home to its 1920's roots.

When his parents moved out in 1971, they gifted the house to Kapp and his wife, Brigitta. “At first I thought living here would be transient,” Kapp admits. “But I grew into a creature of sentiment.”

Memories best describe his deep feelings for Millikin Place. An only child whose mother died when he was two, Kapp had plenty of playmates and was considered a Millikin Place “mascot” of sorts. He learned to play Monopoly in the library of #2 with friends Bill and Betty Funk, the grandchildren of original owners Edward and Florence Irving. Perhaps a predictor of his celebrated artistic career, Kapp intuitively appreciated “something very different” about this house compared to its neighbors.

“It was theatrical by design,” he recalls. “The entryway was shallow and opened into a vast, open space. I also remember the pleasant aroma of fumed oak, which permeated everything.”

Boyish escapades occasionally resulted in being “escorted” off by homes' groundskeepers: Rippling the water and disturbing the fish in Mrs. Adolph Mueller's goldfish pond; trying to squeeze as many boys as possible into the birdbath of the Homestead's sunken gardens; playing basketball at #4 and taking shots that “destroyed” the stained glass lanterns on the side of the garage.

Another chapter opened in Kapp's circle of life story when his daughter and son-in-law moved into #4. Throughout their nine years on Millikin Place, Kapp assisted the couple with dozens of restoration projects. Most unique, he recalls, was the yard's ten-foot bat house, constructed from brick and roofed with a 1,500-pound limestone slab.

It was installed by Adolph Mueller as an ill-fated “insect zapper,” circa 1920s. “Tiny cubicles were partitioned with slate,” Kapp says, “and when we removed the top, it was obvious that the bats had completely ignored it for decades!”

A passionate preservationist, Kapp, who also taught in Millikin University's Department of Art for three years in the 1960s, grew from neighborhood mascot to its champion. He salvaged bricks from pillars that originally marked the Homestead drive entry on West Main Street to construct the planter in Millikin Place's circle. And in the early '70s, when #7 was acquired by a real estate firm through an estate settlement and plans were announced to convert the structure into a duplex residence — allowable at the time under R-6 zoning — Kapp led the “ransom” charge. Residents united to buy the home and, ultimately, successfully down-zoned Millikin Place to R-2, or single residence only. With local restrictions in place, along with designations on the National Register of Historic Places and Decatur's historic district, Kapp is optimistic about the future of his “past.”

“It's been a battle at times,” he admits. “But I see Millikin Place as a valuable island — one that is valuable to the history and beauty of Decatur.

“In 50 years, I hope it looks exactly as it does today.”

Founding Fathers Millikin Place traces its history to the 1880s, when two commanding Italianate mansions — one owned by James and Anna B. Millikin (the present-day Millikin Homestead), the second by Hugh W. Hill — stood on the west side of Pine Street between William and Main Streets. In 1909, the 4.3-acre Hill estate was sold for just under $12,000 and subdivided into large lots to create a high-end residential enclave.

The estate's new owners, Edward and Florence Irving, were backed by some of Decatur's wealthiest businessmen, including William J. Grady, Robert and Philip Mueller, William M. Wood and Frank Cruikshank. Each owner was required to hire a residential architect.

According to Kapp, Frank Lloyd Wright's segue to the scene is “somewhat of a mystery.” It's not recorded how the Irvings knew of Wright or why they selected him for #2. And, without realizing that Wright had left for a year-long European jaunt and turned his practice over to Marion Mahony, the Irvings also had recommended him to the Mueller and Wood families — a fortuitous word-of-mouth that gave Millikin Place Wright's indelible footprint.

Source credit: “Marion Mahony and Millikin Place: Creating A Prairie School Masterpiece,” by Paul Kruty and Paul E. Sprague.

Contributor Jan Mathew enjoyed several springtime strolls through Decatur's Millikin Place.

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golf Hickory Point Golf Club 727 Weaver Rd, Forsyth, IL 62535 217-421-7444 for tee times Hickory Point Golf Course is truly a course for the beginner, as well as, the competitive golfer. The flat, wide fairways are perfect for learning, while long distances and the ever present wind provide challenge for more experienced golfers. Designed by Roger Packard, the course features a lighted driving range. A special six-hole short course, opened in 1999, is designed specifically for beginning and youth golfers.

Course information: Yardage: 6848 Slope: 127 Par: 72 Course Rating: 72.3

Red Tail Run Golf Club by Raymond Floyd 520 West Grove Road Decatur, IL 62521 217-422-2211 for tee times.

Designed by legendary hall of fame player Raymond Floyd, this signature course features large undulating greens, wide rolling fairways and native grasses. Located on Decatur’s south side, the Park District’s newest course is designed for players of all skill levels. From five tee locations and multiple angles, this signature Floyd course is truly designed for the championship to the novice golfer. ! Multiple Tee Locations from Championship to Junior ! Driving Range with Double Tees ! Golf Academy Programming ! First Tee Learning Center Course information: Yardage: 6713 Slope: 125 Par: 72 Course Rating: 72.0

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727 Weaver Rd., Forsyth, IL • 217-421-7444 Host of the IHSA Class AA Girls’ State Tournament Yardage: 6848 | Par: 72 | Slope: 127 | Course Rating: 72.3 • Larry Packard design • Traditional parkland style

520 W. Grove Rd., Decatur, IL • 217-422-2211 Host of IHSA Class A Girls’ State Tournament Yardage: 6713 | Par: 72 | Slope: 125 | Course Rating: 72.0 • Designed by Raymond Floyd • Prairie-style, Scottish links

HOMEWOOD SUITES

by Hilton 333 West Marion Ave. • Forsyth, IL 62535 217-877-0887 www.decaturforsyth.homewoodsuites.com Golf Package Rate: $129.00 per day (per person - single occupancy)

RESIDENCE INN 230 Lucile Ave • Forsyth, IL 62535 217-872-6600 • www.marriott.com Golf Package Rate: $159.00 per day (per person - single occupancy)

RAMADA 355 Hickory Point Rd • Decatur, IL 62526 217-876-8011 • www.ramada.com Golf Package Rate: $84.00 per day (per person - double occupancy)

DECATUR CONFERENCE CENTER & HOTEL 4191 US Highway 36 • Decatur, IL 62522 217-422-8800 www.hoteldecatur.com Golf Package Rate: $115.00 per day

FAIRFIELD INN

(per person - double occupancy)

1417 Hickory Point Dr. • Forsyth, IL 62535 217-875-3337 • www.faireldinn.com Golf Package Rate: $94.00 per day

BAYMONT BY WYNDHAM

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5100 Hickory Point Frontage Rd Decatur IL 62526 - 217-875-5800 www.wyndhamhotels.com Golf Package Rate: $79.00 per day

HAMPTON INN

by Hilton

COUNTRY INN & SUITES

BY RADISSON

4855 E. Evergreen Court Decatur, IL 62521 217-864-3297 www.hampton.com Golf Package Rate: $155.00 per day

5150 Hickory Point Frontage Rd. Decatur IL 62526 217-872-2402 www.choicehotels.com Golf Package Rate: $95.00 per day

(per person - double occupancy)

(per person-double occupancy

QUALITY INN 134 Barnett Ave. Forsyth, IL 62535 217-875-1166 www.qualityinn.com Golf Package Rate: $89.00 per day (per person - double occupancy)

(per person - double occupancy)

Rates effective through December 2024

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Mt. Zion Village Hall

1. Downtown Decatur (see inset above) 2. Fairview Park Plaza 3. South Shores Center 4. Oakwood 5. Brettwood Village 6. Mound Plaza 7. Hickory Point Mall

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©Copyright 2018 Decatur Magazine

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1. Decatur Conference Center & Hotel 2. America’s Best Value Inn 3. Homewood Suites 4. Fairfield Inn 5. Hampton Inn 6. Quality Inn 7. Residence Inn 8. Country Inn & Suites 9. Baymont Inn 10. Ramada Limited 11. Welcome Hotel & Suites

12. Holiday Inn & Suites 13. Sleep Inn 14. Tri-Manor Motel 15. Sandy’s Motel 16. Decatur Inn 17. Country Hearth Inn 19. Younker House B & B 20. Intown Motel 21. Soy City Motel 22. Lakeview Motel 23. Hawthorn Suites 24. Hampton Inn

1. Progress City, USA 2. Richland Community College / Shilling 3. Macon County History Museum 4. Children’s Museum of Illinois 5. Scovill Zoo 6. Hieronymus Mueller Museum 7. Mari Mann Herb Farm 8. Rock Springs Conservation Area 9. Millikin University / Kirkland 10. James Millikin Homestead 11. Gallery 510 12. Madden Arts Center 13. Macon County Fairgrounds 14. African American Cultural Museum 15. Oglesby Mansion 16. Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum 17. Staley Museum

1. Preston Jackson Park 2. Fairview Park 3. Fairview Tennis Complex 4. Decatur Skate Park 5. Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) 6. Greater Decatur YMCA 7. Hickory Point Golf Course 8. Forsyth Village Park 9. Red Tail Run Golf Club 10. Nelson Park 11. Sportsmans Park, Schaub Center 12. Rotary Park 13. Sand Creek Conservation Area 14. Decatur Soccer Complex 15. Lake Decatur 16. Borg Warner Sports Complex 17. Sunnyside Park 18. Overlook Adventure Park 19. Devon Amphitheater 20. Pier 36 Marina

by HILTON

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January - December 2024 May 10 - 11 Decatur Craft Beer Festival

September 13 - 15 Arts in Central Park

November 30 Lights of Christmas Parade

VIP event downtown on Friday. Saturday event at Central Park, 213 N. Franklin St. Includes craft beers from across Illinois and beyond, live music and food trucks. Tickets, 217-4233189, www.decaturarts.org

Central Park, Downtown Decatur.

Art festival featuring the works of over 50 artists, live music, sponsored by Decatur Area Arts Council and Gallery 510, $ for food and beverage, Friday night Preview Party with musical entertainment, F 5-7pm, Sa 10am-5pm, Su 10am-4pm, free admission, 217-423-3189, www.decaturarts.org

Downtown Decatur parade route. Annual Lighted Christmas Parade celebrates the season with festive floats, steps off at 4:30pm, Santa takes up residence in the historic Transfer House in Central Park. For hours, 217-422-7300, www.decaturcvb.com

June 8 - 9 Hardy's Highway: Race for the Lake Twelve classes of hydro and flat bottom boats will compete in sanctioned boat racing on Lake Decatur. Racing from 11am to 5pm each day.

Food vendors, arts and crafts, music and fun activities for the kids. More info at www.decatur-parks.org or call 217-422-5911.

July 4 Independence Day Celebration Nelson Park, 2301 E. Lakeshore Dr. Community celebration on the lakefront with live music, food and fireworks display at dusk, free, 217-422-5911, www.decatur-parks.org

September 2 Labor Day POPS on the Lake Devon Amphitheater Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra performs their annual end of the summer concert on the shores of Lake Decatur. Boats anchor offshore.

6:00 pm. For tickets go to www.devonamphitheater.com

October 6 Annual Shoreline Classic Nelson Park Premier road race draws thousands of runners and spectators from across the country. The 5K and 15K races are run along the shores of scenic Lake Decatur in a colorful fall setting. To register go to www.shorelineclassic.com

November 23 Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony Decatur Civic Center Christmas in downtown Decatur officially kicks off with the tree lighting in the circle drive of the civic center at 6:00 pm, www.decaturciviccenter.net

December 4 Christmas Walk Downtown Decatur. Festive trolley rides, music and carolers, delicious goodies, and Santa's House in Central Park, extended retail hours and art galleries open, 5-8pm, free, 217-423-3189, www.decaturarts.org

December 7 - 8 Vespers Kirkland Fine Arts Center Cherished annual tradition brings the sounds of Millikin University students together in song as they present “evening prayers” to adoring audiences. For tickets call 217-424-6318, www.millikin.edu/kirkland

For details on other events in the Decatur area, go to www.decaturcvb.com/events

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EDUCATION: the foundation of progress

Teach your children well has always been a song to celebrate in Decatur.

From the early beginnings of one-room country schools to the present day computerized classrooms, our community has deemed education the foundation of progress. Going to school isn't merely a destination in Decatur — it's a life-long process of improvement. Our citizens have opportunities to learn at every life stage, with programs available for those taking their first tentative baby steps to adults long past retirement.

Excellent Choices Primary and secondary education is synonymous with choice. Families can select from public, private, and religious schools based on individual needs. Area school districts such as Maroa-Forsyth, Mt. Zion, WarrensburgLatham, and Meridian offer a small town atmosphere for students, while fostering academic excellence.

Decatur Public School System — better known as DPS No. 61 — has reinvented itself several times in the 140 years since the first school bell rang. The district continues to offer the most varied and enriched programs in the region, including a wide range of music and professional development courses.

Five district schools are classified as “magnets.” These schools present a full curriculum, but also focus on specific topics or styles of teaching. For example, Garfield Montessori Magnet School is one of only five public Montessori schools in the state and the first public Montessori middle school in Illinois. This hands-on teaching method mixes ages in the classroom, focuses on learning by doing, and emphasizes respect for others. Decatur is fortunate to have two Montessori schools – Prairie Flower Montessori is a private school offering classes for pre-school through primary grades.

Christian education in our community encompasses Catholic, Lutheran, and non-denominational schools. These options provide a well-rounded education that centers on development of the whole child, combining religious doctrine with high academic standards and an attitude of service to others. Some 17 private schools add to the choices in our educational community, and names such as

Holy Family, Saint Patrick Elementary, Our Lady of Lourdes School, and Northwest Christian Campus reflect curricula that combine teaching the mind and reaching the heart. continued on next page

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The history of St. Teresa High School — known to locals as “St. T.” — stretches over a century to 1866. What was once strictly a girls' boarding school now has a co-ed enrollment of over 370 students that draws largely from three local Catholic schools.

In 2000, the Lutheran School Association, now known as Unity Christian School, expanded its facilities to include a high school. And, under one roof at Decatur Christian School are about 300 K-12 students, an enrollment which represents about 80 area churches.

With three dedicated homeschooling organizations — Decatur Area Homeschool Network, Greenhouse, and Greater Decatur Area Catholic Home Schoolers — it's estimated about 450 children from 150 to 200 families in our community are home educated. Besides an active co-op teaching math, drama, art, Spanish, music, science, and sign language, many local organizations such as the YMCA, Decatur Area Arts Council, and Rock Springs Nature Center provide programs specifically designed for home educated students.

A Rich Environment Decatur is surrounded by higher learning opportunities.

Over 76,000 students are served each year by Richland Community College (RCC), located amid some of the richest farmland in the nation on the city's northeast corner. The college serves residents of Macon County and parts of Christian, DeWitt, Logan, Moultrie, Piatt, Sangamon, and Shelby counties. RCC's open door policy allows admittance to anyone within the district that would benefit from a higher education.

More than 30 areas of concentration are available for students, and those earning degrees in any of these areas can transfer to a four-year college or university. Lifelong learning programs and non-credit classes span topics from computers, investments, and fine arts, to auto mechanics and dance.

The regional Heartland Technical Academy, teaches practical and work-related skills to high school students in subjects such as agriculture, childcare, criminal justice, and fire-fighting — often partnering with business and industry to get on-the-job training that will prepare students for life beyond the classroom.

Big Blue James Millikin would be proud. He dreamed of a four-year university that would embrace the “practical” side of learning along with the “literary and classical.” With a combination of community support and private philanthropy Millikin built one of the nation's first small, comprehensive universities. Over a century later, the college continues to thrive — with three professional schools and one liberal

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arts and sciences school serving a diverse student body of about 2,400 and offering over 50 undergraduate majors. Within six months of commencement, 99 percent of Millikin's graduates are employed or pursuing additional studies.

Business played an early role in MU's history. Now, highly motivated professionals have the option of pursuing MU's Masters of Business Administration degree within the Tabor School of Business.

Designed as a unified curriculum rather than a collection of courses, the program is meant to prepare students for leadership in today's complex business world.

Millikin's Professional Adult Comprehensive Education (PACE) program is designed for working adults — students at least 24 years old with three years of work experience and 45 credit hours under their belts. Majors are available in Organizational Leadership, Criminal Justice, and Accounting. A nursing program is offered for those with an RN degree who wish to complete their BSN by going to night school.

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WELCOME TO DECATUR 2024

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CALLING ALL KIDS Learn to play is our motto. Whether your children want to take up a musical instrument, dance on stage, master a sport, or discover the world around them, after-school programs offer them the chance to grow. continued on next page

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Explore the World of Music Early experiences in music can have a dramatic impact on a child's potential. For over 100 years, Millikin University's School of Music has provided quality music lessons for students of all ages from Decatur and surrounding communities.

Today, that tradition continues with the programs and private lessions offered by the Millikin Community Arts Academy.

Summer Camp Our public education trend is right in line with a national movement towards experiential and exploratory learning. Summer School at District 61 took a new approach in 2011 – planners invited families to enroll their kids in a camp-like setting utilizing Decatur Park District facilities. Fewer desks for chalkboard lessons translated to more interactive and engaged kids. Traditional on-site schools were used primarily for accessing technology, such as Promethean Boards and computer labs.

“Our intent was to create an atmosphere where the community becomes the classroom,” says Director of Special Programs Bobbi Williams. “We continue to encourage students to become good digital citizens in an increasingly technology-based culture.”

Excursions to different “continents” at Park District sites prompted kids to recognize academic principles applied to the world around them.

The response to this paradigm shift? More than 1,000 applications for roughly 800 spots. Students in need of catch-up time worked alongside higher-achieving peers in a collaborative format. Earlysummer evenings were marked by frequent sightings of the orange camp tee-shirts. To register, call Decatur Public Schools at 217-4243000.

In Step Hundreds of local dancers take the stage during the year in Decatur to adoring audiences – and showcase the results of their hard work during classes offered across the community.

The Decatur Community Dance (DCD) program is committed to providing the highest quality dance training in a professional but personal and friendly environment for children (starting at age two) to adult.

With over 30 years of experience teaching dance, The Dance Centre specializes in a unique dance program for pre-school age students and offers a variety of classes for ages two through adult.

Debbie's Dance Studio has almost 40 years of experience teaching young dancers and offers classes beginning with the Wiggles and Giggles class for ages 18 months to four years to specialized classes for boys and girls through adult.

After School Sports Golf Nearly on par with the professionals are their protégés —more than 350 junior golfers, ages four to 21, who compete in Decatur's Junior Open, the Midwest's top-ranked junior tournament. Beginning at an early age, young golfers in Decatur learn the skills of the game during junior golf programs offered at all our golf facilities.

Soccer Youth soccer has found a home in Decatur as well, hosting indoor soccer leagues at the Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) and games for all ages on manicured fields scattered throughout the city. The Midstate Soccer Club, a developmental program administered by the Decatur Park District, provides league and tournament play for youth ages 5-18 at the Decatur Soccer Complex on the city's north side.

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flathead catfish - crappie freshwater drum - white bass - largemouth bass

To obtain permits and schedule tournaments, call the City of Decatur Lake Office 217-424-2837

WELCOME TO DECATUR 2024

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

For more than a century, advanced healthcare has had a home — and a heart — in Decatur. Through the decades, the focus of local healthcare has shifted from treating diseases to prevention and wellness, and from hospital stays spanning weeks to hosts of procedures performed on an outpatient basis.

Decatur's role and reputation as a regional healthcare hub has evolved as well, with its facilities, programs, services, and technologies building on the commitment and foresight of our community's medical pioneers. continued on next page

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In the course of its 103-year history, Decatur Memorial Hospital (DMH) has grown from a humble facility serving a handful of patients to an extensive medical complex offering the latest in healthcare diagnosis and treatment techniques to the people of central Illinois.

A not-for-profit, private hospital, Decatur Memorial Hospital's mission — to improve the health of the people and communities we serve — is made possible thanks to the hospital's more than 2,300 caring, dedicated employees. With more than 300 physicians representing a large variety of medical and surgical professions, DMH's care extends throughout Macon County and into neighboring counties.

In October 2019, DMH became an affiliate of Springfield-based Memorial Health System, enabling patients to benefit from the strength of a regional healthcare organization.

DMH is a licensed and fully accredited 208-bed facility that offers a wide range of general and specialized diagnostic, surgical and treatment services. DMH encompasses 12 state-of-the-art Centers of Excellence which focus on proven, quality healthcare and include a Level II trauma center, orthopaedics, molecular medicine, cardiopulmonary and vascular care, gastroenterology, neurosciences and oncology.

DMH is committed to making it easy for the community to access health and wellness services. Two DMH Express Care locations offer convenient care for illnesses that are urgent, but not life-threatening.

Those locations also provide required school physicals year-round.

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DMH Health and Wellness is a venture of Decatur Memorial Hospital designed to improve the health and fitness of the Decatur community and DMH employees. The facility utilizes an integrated approach involving nutrition and fitness coaching to help patients and members adopt healthy behaviors and make lasting lifestyle changes. DMH Health and Wellness offers a wide range of services, from gym memberships and personal training to sports enhancement, weight management, nutrition and diabetes education.

Founded in 1878 by three Hospital Sisters of St. Francis, HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital is an all-private room health care facility that combines modern technology with the caring spirit of the original founders. HSHS St. Mary’s is situated on a 21-acre campus overlooking Lake Decatur and offers a broad spectrum of comprehensive health services, including the latest diagnostic equipment, interventional cardiology, surgical and medical intervention, emergency medical care, outpatient radiation therapy, pain management a sleep center and also offers a variety of community education and wellness programs. HSHS St. Mary's Hospital's approach to health care combines the compassion and human touch of more than a century of caring with the modern technologies available today and remains grounded by the mission of its founding Hospital Sisters.

Radiating from Decatur's hospitals is a system focused on community health — from wellness centers designed to maintain fitness and prevent disease, to facilities targeted to active seniors or those needing rehabilitative care. The result? Decatur residents are never more than a few miles from the services — or the facility — they need.

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CENTERED ON EACH OTHER We put words into action, which is why Decaturites show philanthropy through the ways they run, walk, swing a golf club or team up to donate their time and talents. The collaborative nature of our social service agencies is visible, too, with programs to meet diverse needs and wellsprings of support from residents of every age.

Abraham Lincoln, one of Decatur's favorite sons, probably said it best.

As the story goes, Lincoln was leaving church on Sunday when he was asked his opinion of the pastor's sermon.

“He had a strong voice, and a good delivery,” Lincoln replied. “But he forgot the most important part of the sermon: to ask us to do something great.”

Chances are Honest Abe would smile on Decatur residents – a group that rarely waits to be asked. We apply “great” to every endeavor, whether it's delivering a meal or running a 10K race. Volunteers are attracted by a plethora of opportunities, including arts/culture, community development, conservation/environment, animals/wildlife, education, health, scholarships, and youth. Our social service agencies are drawn together as well, working in a spirit of collaboration and cooperation to assure no need goes unanswered. continued on next page

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Nearly 250 social service agencies operate in Decatur and Macon County, a total that represents more than 400 programs and about 40 support groups. Services span our communities spectrum of needs, from Baby Talk, which engages Decatur's tiniest residents, to Meals on Wheels and similar programs that assist seniors to live independently.

Decatur is home to approximately 300 churches, which form a vibrant, growing, and inspirational segment of our population.

Alliances transcend diverse denominations, and the influence of our churches radiates from inner-parish programs and services to the community as a whole.

Resources such as the Community Foundation of Macon County help pave residents' philanthropic paths. Under the Foundation's umbrella is Decatur Legacy, a group of more than 60 local professional firms and non-profit organizations that encourages residents from all walks of life to designate charitable gifts in their wills or estate plans. Annually, foundation donors and endowment funds result in over $6 million being directed in community grants.

United Way of Decatur and Mid-Illinois also provides an opportunity for every resident and business to impact our community.

Hundreds of volunteers fuel annual campaigns, which result in over $1.6 million directed back to United Way-endorsed organizations representing youth development, community basics, and access to healthcare.

Whether we run, walk, golf or donate food, our deeds often define how we support – and remember each other.

Every year, thousands of participants and volunteers unite for community events that memorialize those whose lives have touched our city, and to support the causes they hold dear. The USTA/Ursula Beck Pro Tennis Classic has drawn more than 150 players from around the world, as well as thousands of spectators each year since 1998. A tribute to Decatur's former junior tennis champion and Millikin University tennis coach Ursula Beck, funds raised benefit adult and junior tennis through the Decatur Community Tennis Foundation.

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For over four decades, the Fred Copeland Scholarship Golf Tournament has raised money for junior golf in memory of former Nelson Park golf pro Fred Copeland, who was passionate about involving youth in the sport he loved. And the annual ALZ Wiffle Ball Classic is a fundraiser dedicated to finding a cure for Alzheimer's, increasing awareness, and supporting local and national programs.

In early fall, hundreds of participants take their marks at the start line of the Shoreline Classic – and wish for the ability to walk on water. Tackling the rolling terrain around Lake Decatur, this competitive 15K run and 5K run/walk debuted in 1990 as downstate Illinois' premier road race to raise money for high school track and cross-country programs.

When it comes to energy, Decatur's youth bring vitality to volunteerism as well. Youngsters from preschool to high school learn about leadership and community service through organizations such as local scouting troops, Macon County 4-H, and Young Leaders in Action and Decatur Andreas Ag Academy, both award-winning programs. Encouraging these groups' efforts are a wide network of business and community sponsors. For every child who participates on local youth league baseball, softball, soccer, football, or basketball teams, there's very likely a caring adult on board, too, serving as a coach, booster or team sponsor.

The common thread? Decaturites answer the call – whether the need comes from a city here in the States, a country far away, or from the family across the street. For the fourth grader who contributes a crumpled $1 bill and the local businesses that boost philanthropy by thousands of dollars, to the family that volunteers to ring bells during the holidays, Decatur area residents contribute time, talent and treasure today in the spirit of our community's health and wellbeing in the future.

To learn more about all the ways to get involved in the Decatur area community, call the Community Foundation of Macon County at 217429-3000 or go to www.maconcountygives.org

$22 Million Paid to People Just Like You in the Past Few Years!

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GOOD NEIGHBORS We lend a hand to each other in times of need — sharing a warm hearth during snowstorms and hanging out with youngsters needing help with homework.

Look at a map of the Decatur area and you'll see a patchwork quilt of communities. About 75 individual neighborhoods make up our town — a number capable of expanding exponentially as we embrace new growth.

Each pocket has a history, a personality, and a story to tell. Together, they weave the fabric that is Decatur.

Within our city limits are cottages, condominiums, and colossal lakeside mansions. We host authentic Frank Lloyd Wright gems, quaint Victorian-era cottages, and brand-new Colonials. Our residents live in country settings and climb to city lofts.

Neighbors may be a mile away or close enough to chat over the backyard fence.

We're developing housing to meet the interests and needs of aging baby boomers, and building our first new downtown urban neighborhood in 50 years.

Almost two-thirds of our residents live in single-family dwellings, but we love to gather. You'll find us closing off streets for block parties and choosing up sides to shoot hoops. We celebrate by walking in our own parades. We lend a hand to each other in times of need — sharing a warm hearth during snowstorms and hanging out with youngsters needing help with homework. Our hammers and hearts come together to build for Habitat for Humanity. Togetherness has a history here. continued on next page

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DOWNTOWN'S DOMESTIC SIDE

SUBURBAN LIFE

Although the downtown business map has changed a bit over the years, local life still revolves around the original city boundaries.

Brick streets that hearken to yesteryear tie the city's historic west side to the downtown district. Improvements along this West Main Street corridor also include a new multipurpose, paved hiking and biking trail that passes through the Millikin University campus and connects to our popular bike trail through Fairview Park and beyond.

Our revitalization drive connects to quality of life, too. Residents want to live affordably and still be within minutes of work, school, shopping, and restaurants. To this end, Decatur is determined to create a mixed-use, 24-hour living environment in its downtown.

Reinvestment is enticing homeowners to our city's core, with increasing numbers of young professionals and empty nesters moving on up to the upper floors of downtown buildings converted to “soft lofts.” With open floor plans and exposed brick and duct work, these renovated spaces exude a quintessential urban feeling.

Southeast to Mt. Zion The southern boundaries of Decatur are home to established neighborhoods in South Shores where you'll find an eclectic mix of grand homes ranging from those nestled among stately trees on Allen Bend to the Wildwood subdivision that borders the famed Red Tail Run Golf Club designed by legendary golfer Raymond Floyd.

Heading southeast on Lost Bridge Road you'll arrive at the Home of the Braves - prep sports is a popular pastime in Mt. Zion. You'll discover the focus is on family with sprawling new subdivisions and country homes in this bedroom community just minutes from Decatur.

The Estates at Ashland, Silver Leaf, Parkside East and Carrington offer new construction convenient to schools and village amenities.

Buck Head lies to the east offering new building lots with sweeping views of the rolling prairie. In the planning stages is Summerfield, a new development of affordable homes in the Long Creek area.

These neighborhoods border Fletcher Park, a recent village recreation area development, offering a covered amphitheater, park pavilion, and wide open spaces perfect for family fun and entertainment. And, Spitler Woods State Park, a 202-acre state natural area with hiking trails, picnic areas and camping.

WEST END HISTORIC DISTRICT .

Exploring our many neighborhoods is easy. Most of Decatur's historic gems reside just west of downtown — roughly bounded by Hayward, Eldorado, Church, and Lincoln Park Drive. Street lights have replaced the hitching posts in the historic district, but many of these stately dwellings stand today restored to their former glory.

You'll find homes designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and other architectural marvels located next door to renovated Victorian mansions built by Decatur's founding families including Millikin, Oglesby, and Powers.

Just west of Millikin University in the West End neighborhood, the cozy 1920's and 1930's-era homes are so popular they often trade by word of mouth alone. Street strolling is a daily constitutional in this neighborhood, a fact made even more popular by the area's network of paved trails through nearby parks. On July 4, Cobb Avenue residents stage their very own parade — an event that enjoys a 50-year plus neighborhood history.

LAKEFRONT LIVING The south and east sides of Decatur enjoy close proximity to the shores of Lake Decatur. Stately homes offering panoramic lake views in Southmoreland, Bayshore, Lake Pointe and The Reserve mingle with lakefront cottage and bungalow neighborhoods in Homewood Fishing Club and Lake Grove Club, all designed for life on the water.

Follow Country Club Road north to Airport Road where you'll find new homes in Country Club Estates mingling with sprawling lakefront property on both sides.

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North to Forsyth Built in the 60's and 70's, the northern boundaries of Decatur include Shadow Lane and Cresthaven subdivisions boasting large treed lots and walkable neighborhoods with easy access to shopping and entertainment. Added in the 90's, new subdivisions were built with sweeping views of Hickory Point Golf Course, an award winning public course.

The Village of Forsyth offers small town living in the country.

Stevens Creek and other new subdivisions have grown out of the surrounding prairie with new homes in Grayhawk and Shadow Ridge Estates. The Forsyth Village Park hosts family picnics, reunions, annual festivals and league sports, and a trail system offers hiking and biking opportunities that connects to Decatur's bike trail system.

Room To Grow While lofty apartments and new subdivisions attract young professionals and families, assisted living centers are being constructed in every corner of the city. Our older residents now have the advantages of assistance with everyday needs while enjoying the company of friends and family in a home-like setting. Other developments throughout our community are planned subdivisions targeted to “active seniors.”

There's a home for everyone in Decatur, and the spirit of “togetherness” that initially characterized our neighborhoods still defines these areas today. New housing developments, along with renovations of historic homes, are our welcome mats to a city known for hospitality.

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by meredith jackson | photography by julie scheuler

NICHE FARMING “We have neglected the truth that a good farmer is a craftsman of the highest order, a kind of artist.” – Wendell Berry It takes a pioneering spirit to become a farmer, particularly a specialty farmer. Many such farmers exchange successful careers in other fields for a life they hope will be simpler and more rewarding. Others simply fall into the business, growing more produce than their families can consume and selling the excess.

Andrew Zeaman of Zeaman Farms in Maroa had a taste of farming life as a child, growing strawberries on his parents' farm in Cowden. When he and his wife bought a house with 10 acres, it was only natural for him to grow food crops for his family. continued on next page

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“The transition into a business happened because I grew all this stuff and had more than I knew what to do with,” Andrew says. “I started going to farmers markets in Decatur and Bloomington, and then I quit my job of 17 years and decided to make a go of farming.”

Andrew has indeed made a go of it, specializing in wholesale pumpkin farming and supplying thousands of pumpkins to The Great Pumpkin Patch in Arthur for a season. Now, he supplies Rader Family Farms in Bloomington.

Along with their pumpkin crop, Andrew and his family grow flowers (including dahlias and lavender), strawberries, cantaloupe and vegetables — all using organic processes. Though Andrew's wife, Leslie, and his two stepchildren, Braden and Ryanne, help him as needed, it's not unusual for Andrew to spend 60 hours a week or more working the farm, in addition to time spent selling produce and flowers at the farmers markets.

“I think that's the best part of it for me, making people feel happy about what they are consuming,” Andrew says. “I like seeing people's faces when they tell me they enjoyed the strawberries or cantaloupe — things I grew myself.”

Mariah Anderson is of the same mind. She and her husband, Greg, enjoy serving and conversing with customers at their farm, Triple M Farm: Mariah's Mums & More, in Clinton.

“We have seen kids grow up as they've come out here with their families each year,” Mariah says. “I think we really understand our customers and what they want. That's what has helped us provide such variety and diversity in what we do.”

Of course, the Andersons' farm is most famous for its namesake mums, which the couple began selling in 2009.

“We grew 300 mums just for fun and then sold them at the Apple and Pork Festival in Clinton that fall,” Mariah says. “Then we reached out to other farms and our local grocery store to see if they would get mums from us, and that's how it all started.”

This year, Triple M Farms is growing more than 20,000 mums to sell — and not just any mums, either. They offer 30 to 35 unique mum varieties, beyond what one might see in a big-box store. In 2022, 15,000 customers stopped by to purchase the flowers.

Throughout the growing season, the Andersons offer zinnias, vegetables, melons and — perhaps most delicious of all — hydroponic strawberries, available to pick June through October. The strawberries are grown in tiered towers in a protected area, allowing anyone of any age or ability to pick in comfort.

Carrie Stephens of Prairie View Farm in Oakley also began her farming enterprise in a small way: by selling 320 pies. About 14 years ago, she needed extra money to travel so that she could see her son graduate from boot camp before he left for Iraq.

“My daughter suggested I could make and sell pies to raise the money,” Carrie says. “I made 320 pies, just apple caramel pecan, in six weeks. And I made $3,000.”

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The Stephens' son returned safely from Iraq, and a new business was born for Carrie and her husband, Rick.

After a move from Indiana to central Illinois, the Stephens family purchased a five-acre hobby farm in Oakley. There, they established an orchard, beehives, raised garden beds and chickens. They opened Prairie View Farm about a year and a half ago. Carrie also became state and county certified as a cottage baker. Her recipes are approved and tested by health department officials.

“A lot of (the certification process) is practical and deals with safety and cleanliness in the kitchen,” she says. “It takes time to do it, but if you want to sell your goods, it's a great opportunity.”

Carrie sells her products, including her now-famous apple caramel pecan pie with a crunch topping, at markets in Decatur, Argenta, Forsyth and Warrensburg. Through these markets, she has met kindred spirits and encouraged them in pursuing their own cottage industries.

“Don't undersell yourself,” she says. “If you have a skill that other people do not have or have a product to offer, there are those who would love to have your product. You'll have to work hard, but that's okay! It gives you a reason to get up every day.”

One of these kindred spirits is Leslie Kapper of The Homeplace Flower Farm in Niantic. Needing a mental and physical break from her nursing career, Leslie undertook preparations in fall 2021 to begin selling flowers the following spring. With advice from Indiana flower farmer friend Amanda Wilderman, Leslie and her husband ran water lines, planted bulbs, and started perennial and annual flowers from seed indoors.

“That first year, I offered my flowers on social media, letting people know I had bouquets,” Leslie says. “From there, I started doing bouquets for markets, including The Perfect Pair in Warrensburg.”

From The Homeplace Flower Farm, Leslie also sells buckets of flowers in coordinating colors and creates table decor for events.

Currently, she is growing flowers to use in her two sons' upcoming weddings. The addition of a two-year-old foster son to the Kapper household this year has altered some plans for her flower farm — but it is all for the best, she says.

“His coming has extended my time away from nursing, and I can be at home with him,” she says. “As much time as I spend with it, probably 40 to 50 hours a week, the farm is secondary to family life.”

Leslie has been surprised at the joy she finds in the creativity and vitality of being a flower farmer. “I thought I would be more of a grower, but I really enjoy creating bouquets, something that people will take into their own homes. Bringing joy to other people is fun to do.”

“And I've learned some interesting life lessons,” Leslie adds. “The more you cut flowers, the more growth you will get from them. I've learned about that, about cutting away to grow and enjoy life.”

Meredith Jackson thoroughly enjoyed following along on the heartfelt journey with all these wonderful farmers.

gK9 wine & spirits

A new shop & tasting experience. pour your heart out behind the red doors

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city links

Important contact information to help get your home and office move-in ready.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES

NON-EMERGENCY NUMBERS

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

CITY OF DECATUR 217-424-2700 www.decaturil.gov

DECATUR FIRE DEPARTMENT 217-429-5201

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF MACON COUNTY 217-429-3000 www.maconcountygives.org

VILLAGE OF MT. ZION 217- 864-5424 www.mtzion.com VILLAGE OF FORSYTH 217-877-9445 www.forsyth-il.gov MACON COUNTY OFFICE BUILDING www.maconcounty.illinois.gov

UTILITIES Gas/Electric Service AMEREN ILLINOIS 800-755-5000 www.ameren.com/illinois City Water/Sewer Service DECATUR WATER DEPARTMENT 217-424-2841 www.decaturil.gov/departments

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CABLE/INTERNET/WI-FI/ PHONE

REGIONAL OFFICE OF EDUCATION 217-872-3721 www.maconcounty.illinois.gov/departments/e ducation-office/

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MILLIKIN UNIVERSITY 217-424-6211 www.millikin.edu

AT&T 855-950-1681 www.att.com

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CITY/COUNTY SERVICES

MACON COUNTY EMERGENCY ALERT NOTIFICATION SYSTEM www.maconcounty.illinois.gov

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For answers to your questions, call the City of Decatur Resident Information at 217-424-2700, or go to www.decaturil.gov

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