SPOT THE DIFFERENCE CHALLENGE: Wildflour Café
Entertainment Guide
The Bullet Trap
WJMU
The QUAD Ralph’s West End Market
Skywalker International Sports Complex
FREE
Nov 2011
University Dogs The Decatur area’s handiest Events Calendar
is a FREE, monthly entertainment guide featuring the handiest events calendar for the Decatur, IL area. THRIVE IS ALSO
... a state of Being. To THRIVE is to Flourish. It’s Prosperity. It’s Success. It’s Positivity at all cost. It’s finding the Fun in all you do. It isn’t always easy, but to persevere against those who would have you believe “there’s nothing to do here” is to THRIVE. THRIVE is a publication of Showcard Studio PO Box 6195 • Decatur, IL 62524 • 217.791.5653 www.thrivedecatur.com www.issuu.com/thrivedecatur Publisher: Katrina Smalley publisher@thrivedecatur.com Managing Editor: Jennifer Hendricks editor@thrivedecatur.com The Eventor: Stephanie Zimmerman events@thrivedecatur.com Senior Writer: Joli Hohenstein Contributors: T. F. Dude Jentry Grader Todd Hauser Troy Hayes Michelle Stephens Photographers: Sarah Jane Travis Lickey Layout Design: Showcard Studio Printing: Wood Printing Special thanks to the Macon Resources CAPS Program (Community Awareness, Possibilities & Supports) for all your help with THRIVE deliveries! 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 | november 2011
ON THE FIRST OF THE MONTH LOOK FOR THRIVE AT ALL OF THESE LOCATIONS! ADM • Aloha • America’s Best Value Inn • An Affair to Remember • Applebee’s • Architectural Expressions • Area One Realtors • Aspen Dental • Attitudes Salon • Baker Law Office • Baymont Inn & Suites • Beautiful Beginnings • Bliss Salon • Blue Connection • Blue Eggs & Ham • Blue Mound Village Hall • Bourbon Barrel • Brinkoetter & Associates • C&K Custom Signs • Carlos O’Kelly’s • Cartridge World • Casey’s General Store-Maroa • Casey’s General Store-West Mound • Caterpillar • Cedar Lake Gardens and Gifts • Central Illinois Hand Center • Children’s Museum • CITC • Citizens Barnes Building • Clayton Sales • Coffee Connection • Cohn Furniture • Collect Them • Comfort Inn • Coney McKane’s • Corona’s • Country Inn & Suites • Coziahr Harley Davidson • Curly’s Bar • Dale’s Southlake Pharmacy • Days Inn • Debbie’s Diner • Decatur Animal Clinic • Decatur Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau • Decatur Athletic Club • Decatur Beach House • Decatur Civic Center • Decatur Conference Center • Decatur Dental Care • Decatur Jewelry & Pawn • Decatur Jewelry & Pawn II • Decatur Memorial Hospital • Decatur Mutual Insurance • Decatur Professional Plaza • Decatur Public Library • Decatur Surf Club • DECU-North • Del’s Express • Diane’s Mane Strategy • Different by Design • DMH Express Care-Fairview • Doherty’s Pub & Pins • Donnies Homespun Pizza • Downtown Cafe • Dragon Buffet • Dynagraphics/FastImpressions • Earthen Pottery • El MatadorNorth Decatur • Embroidered Expressions • Endless Summer Tanning • Exsalonce Studio & Day Spa • Famous Liquors • Filippo’s Pizza • First Wok • Fox & Hounds • Freedom Gas-Maroa • Fringe Salon • Fuji • G-B’s CD’s • Garcia’s Pizza • George’s Skate Center • Gerber State Bank-Argenta • Gerber State Bank-Oreana • Giggles • Golden Glaze Donuts • Good Naber Specialty Foods • Goodfellas • Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce • Greater Decatur Y • Guadalajara • Gyro King • Haines & Essick Co. • Hawthorne Suites by Wyndham • Holiday Inn Express • Homeward Bound Pet Shelter • Humane Society of Decatur and Macon Co. • IHOP • It’s a Girl Thing • It’s Just a Little Prick Tattoo Co. • Jan’s East End Grill • Jimmy Ryan’s • JJ’s Uptown Resale Botique • Katz on Merchant • KC Hall • Krekels-Mt. Zion • Krekels-Oakland • Krekels North • Kroger • La Gondola • La Petite Salon • Lana’s Cakewalk • Land of Lincoln CU-Mound • Land of Lincoln CU-Oakland • Leo H. Berger Insurance • Linda’s Music • Lock Stock & Barrel • Love at First Sight • Lyle Campbell & Sons Realty • Macon County Farm Bureau • Macon Resources Main Building • Madden Arts Center • Main Hangar • Main Street Cafe-Maroa • Mari Mann Herbs Co. • Mary Belle’s • Maustell’s Pizza • McGorray’s Golf & Grille • Merle Norman • Merry Maids • Mi Pueblito • Miles Chevrolet • Millenium Tan • Millie & Bo’s Barkery • Millikin University-Kirkland • Monical’s • Mt. Zion Chamber of Commerce • Mt. Zion Library • Mt. Zion Village Hall • Mystic Tan • Neil Tire & Auto Service • Neuhoff Media • Nissan • Nola’s Hair Salon • Northgate Pet Clinic • Nova Framing / Gallery 510 • Novel Ideas • Old Book Barn • One Main Place • Oreana Public Library • Orthopaedic & Rehabilitation Specialists of Central IL • P&G QuickstopBlue Mound • Paco’s Sol Bistro • Party Warehouse • Pastabilities • Perkins • Personal Medical Supply • Petals • Pho Golden Noodle Bowl • Pizza Hut • Pla-Mor Lanes • Play it Again Sports • Pop’s Place • Porter’s on Merchant • Priceless Smiles/Styles & Smiles • Pride Coin Laundry • Pride Coin Laundry • Ramada Limited • Ray Eldridge Jewelry • RegionsDecatur Main • Regions-Northtown • Rendezvous Bar & Grill • Renew Total Wellness • Richland Community College • Richland Extension Office • Robbies Outlet • Rock Springs Nature Center • RUSH Wireless • Russ Proesel DDS • Salon 402 • Salon Zen • Shear Learning • Shop on Main • Signature Salon • Sleep Inn • Sloan’s Calzones • Smith Tire Co. • Solar Tan • Sound Check Music Center • Soy Capital • Spa Villa • Spare Time Lanes • Speed Lube • Star Silkscreen • Studio 7 Salon & Day Spa • Subway, West End • Sun & Fun • Swartz Properties • Tasty’s Chicago Grille-West Eldo • Texas Roadhouse • The Decanter • The Decatur Club • The Fox’s Den • The Secret Garden • The Teacher’s Lounge • The Wharf • The Winery • Timbuktu • Tournesol • Triple Dog Dare Ya • Tropix Salon and Spa • Unique Boutique • University Dogs • Up N’ Runnin’ • Veolia Environmental Services • Village of Mt. Zion • Wabash Crossing Antiques • Whitestar Home Healthcare Services • Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe • Yoga Hound • Zips Florist by the Gates
WANT TO SEE YOUR NAME HERE? 217.791.5653
in this issue
10 18 28 35
14 on the cover Shotguns take a back seat; it’s all about the bullet at Macon’s newest business The Bullet Trap Indoor Shooting Range. cover photo: Sarah Jane
30
BEHIND THE THRIVE
04
October: Out and About
05
SPOTLIGHT: Ralph’s West End Market
08
The Food Dude: University Dogs
10
2 WAYS TO WIN: 1. Find all 6 differences and earn 2
12
The Locker Room: Skywalker contests@thrivedecatur.com that includes your name and the 6 differen Visit THRIVE Decatur on Facebook on Nov15th to see the password. Em to earn 1 entry. Winners will be drawn on Calendar Nov 16th and notified v November Events
18
20
Visual Guide to Assassins
28
WJMU: the QUAD
30
20 Three Ways to Spice Up Thanksgiving 33 WJMU: the QUAD Streaming music and news from Seaney Studio in the lower level of Richard-Treat Center, the Millikin studentrun radio station WJMU transcends the “Millibuble”. WJMU photos: Travis Lickey
Spot the Difference: Wildflour
35
issue #30 | november 2011 thrivedecatur.com | issuu.com/thrivedecatur
THRIVE
is created and printed locally, in Decatur, IL.
WE RECYCLE!
Do You? Hand THRIVE to a friend or put it out in your bin!
november 2011 | 03
BTEH EHIND
THRIVE
It’s that time of year again. My husband is giddy, has a twinkle in his eye and is showering me with gifts for bribery. He has set aside his antisocial personality and is constantly on the phone talking or texting. Is he calling or texting me? Nope. Is it our anniversary? Nope. My birthday? Nope. That’s right folks. Hunting season is upon us. My fall candle aromas of apple cinnamon and pumpkin spice have been replaced with the smell of deer urine and dirt. Every time our kids see their dad in camouflage, they automatically tell him that he stinks. It’s amazing to me how my husband and his hunting buddies will hunt for several hours during the morning and evening, and still manage to talk and text endlessly about the thrill of their daily hunts and their upcoming strategies. I know men hunt and women nest, however this is ridiculous! We are very excited about the opening of the Bullet Trap in Macon. This place is super cool for gun and shooting enthusiasts! Check it out in this month’s issue!
04 | november 2011
Out & About
A look back at last month’s happenings
Voices of the Past History buffs, curious locals and friends of the cemetery visited Greenwood this October in record numbers for the Voices of the Past Walking Tour. There were over 400 tickets pre-sold for the three tours. More than 60 volunteers spent nine months of preparation to tell various civil war stories relating to people who either had strong ties to the cemetery or were actually buried there. Visitors met Civil War heroes, a governor, a doctor, a chaplain, a nurse and, President Lincoln. Photos: Jeff Hendricks and Bill Horton as Dr. Ira Barnes and Reverend William Crissey (top), Dick Togerson as Sheridan Wait and Paula Cross as Mrs. Wait (middle left), Marcus Brown as Archie Ward (middle right) and Jody Byers as Mary Winegardner (bottom).
Voices photos: Friends of Greenwood Cemetery
november 2011 | 05
Out & About
A look back at last month’s happenings
Big Blue Homecoming Millikin pride came through strong at this year’s homecoming themed “Make it Last Forever”. The Big Blue Spirit Crew was even on hand to “paint you up” for the big game. The entire weekend was packed with games for all and tons of entertainment!
Homecoming photos: Millikin University Alumni and Development Office
Buds & Suds photos: Katrina Smalley
Buds & Suds There were lots of Suds and lots of Buds at this fundraiser for the Humane Society of Decatur and Macon County! For a donation, pups got a good wash and dry to get the “summertime” out. Owners and pets alike enjoyed complimentary treats.
See all of the November events for the Decatur area on pages 18-27! 06 | november 2011
Off to the Derby The Corporate Pinewood Derby Challenge gave local businesses a chance to support the Lincoln Trails Council Boy Scouts of America plus vie for fastest and most importantly, coolest looking car.
Pile-Up photos: Katrina Smalley
Hunnert Car Buds & Suds photos: Katrina Smalley
The tenth and final Hunnert Car Pile-Up was a huge success, drawing literally hundreds of hot rods and classics to Progress City. Hunnert Car was the place to be for inspiration, vintage parts and Rockabilly music.
Pinewood photos: Katrina Smalley
november 2011 | 07
08
SPOTLIGHT
by Joli Hohenstein
Ralph’s West End Market: Where the Meat Is Where’s the beef (and pork and poultry)? Thanks to Nate McKean, it’s back in the West End of Decatur. The recently opened Ralph’s West End Market offers high end, fresh cut, all natural and organic meat, plus tasty gourmet deli sandwiches, deli meats and cheeses, sauces, Amish jams and jellies and a full range of grocery products. Your true neighborhood market, back in the neighborhood. “The west side of Decatur is really becoming its own little community again,” says Nate, the entrepreneur who recently opened Decatur’s newest neighborhood grocery and butcher shop. “We’re more of a throwback to the old communities of having a small town grocer.” And welcome they are. As the granddaughter of a butcher and a former West Ender myself, this writer was thrilled to hear of a real old-school butcher shop conveniently located in the old ‘hood. Plus milk, organic produce and all the other essentials you need? Perfection. But it gets better. This isn’t just any meat. “We try to offer a lot of variety, and things you can’t find just anywhere,” says Nate. It’s local, natural, organic and most of it is MSG and gluten free. Their fresh meats come from local sources, including free range chickens from Arthur and pork and poultry from Pana. They hang and age all the beef themselves. Many of the Boar’s Head deli meats in the case are even recommended by the American Heart Association. And the selection includes mouthwatering offerings like Londonport roast beef (marinated in port), Cajun turkey breast, cracked pepper turkey or spicy chicken. On top of that, they make and smoke a selection of meats in house, from jerky and beef sticks to ribs and Polish sausage.
Of course, they’re still refining their selection, so expect to see changes on the shelves as they feel out customer preferences. (They offer organic baby food but may be transitioning to another offering for example.) And soon they’ll be offering monthly nutrition classes hosted by a registered dietitian and nutritionist. The intent: to share ideas for cooking with organic items, eating healthier and quicker, how to buy the food you need for a few days at a time. They’ll post details, along with weekly specials and a newsletter signup, on their web site and Facebook page soon. As Nate sees it, there’s no end to the West End’s possibilities. “We’ve got lots of great ideas; we’ll be offering smoked hams for the holidays and we want to eventually add fresh fish,” he says. “The more retail establishments that come to the West End, the more it becomes a destination.”
Get There: 135 S. Oakland Ave. 217.330.8001 Mo-Sa 8a-9p Su 8a-4p www.ralphswestendmarket.com Or find them on Facebook!
Joli Hohenstein is a senior contributor to THRIVE. She is an award-winning freelance writer, marketer, and editor. Get more Joli at jolihohenstein.com. 08 | november 2011
richland dance presents
Friday/Saturday, December 2/3, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. Sunday, December 4, 2011 at 2:30 p.m. SHILLING AUDITORIUM Admission - $10.00. No Refunds or Exchanges
A MUSICAL ABOUT PRESIDENTIAL ASSASSINATION
N O T A P P R O P R I AT E F O R C H I L D R E N
JOHN WEIDMAN Music and Lyrics by STEPHEN SONDHEIM Book by
November 11,12,13,18,19,20 Fri 路 Sat at 7:30pm & Sun at 3pm Shilling Auditorium for more info check the website www.richland.edu/theatre ASSASSINS is based on an idea by Charles Gilbert, Jr. | Playwrights Horizons, Inc. New York CityProduced ASSASSINS Off-Broadway in 1990 Assassins is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatrical International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY10019 phone | 212.541.4684 fax | 212.397.4684 | www.mtishows.com
10
THE FOOD DUDE
by T. F. DUDE
University Dogs: The Frank Truth Hot diggity -- there’s a new dog in town. Or to be more precise: dogs. Regular dogs. Jumbo dogs. Chili dogs. Since University Dogs opened last April in a small strip mall just south of Millikin’s campus, their dogs have become this Dude’s best friends. There has been a dearth of quality dogs in town since Mr. G’s closed shop. UDogs fills this void with a wide selection of Vienna Beef hot dogs, polish sausages, and brats – served steamed or charred. And fries. OMG – the fries! Their fresh-cut, lightly salted fries are like Irish crack. You can get them with Cajun seasoning, cheese, or as “Disaster Fries” with chili, cheese, and chopped or grilled onions, but IMHO, it would be sacrilege to sully these perfect spud specimens with anything other than malt vinegar. University Dogs allows you to order up your red hot Chicago style, with yellow mustard, relish onion, tomato, pickle, sport peppers, and celery salt, Maxwell Street, with yellow mustard, grilled onions and sport peppers, or – for a buck more – New York style, with all beef chili, chopped onions, and yellow mustard. Prices range from $2.35 for a regular to $3.55 for a jumbo. For lunch in a crunch, you can get a fully trimmed regular dog with fries and a drink for under 5 bucks. Not into teeny wienies? Try the Big Dog on Campus challenge, which earns you the coveted BDOC title if you can eat two half-pound footlongs and a large Disaster Fry in under 25 minutes. UDogs also serves up seasonal specialties, like the Oktoberfest charred brat soaked in a dark lager beer. November’s special is sweet potato fries, served with brown sugar and marshmallow fluff. While I generally prefer a tube steak to a rib eye, when I crave something heartier, University Dogs meats my cravings with a great selection of Italian beef, chicken breast sandwiches, and char-
Photo: Sarah Jane
burgers. (They even have veggie-burgers for my non-carnivore companions.) The char-burgers are exceptionally good – and quite a surprise since the wiener gets top-dog billing. Thick and juicy with a home-style taste, this burger is now my number one D-town favorite. (Sorry Krekel’s, but you still win my thin and crispy vote.) Although you can’t wash down a UDogs meal with a brew, you can top it off with some delicious desserts. I was torn between a WünderBar (chocolate-dipped cheesecake on a stick), chocolate chip cookies, and brownies. The made-from-scratch quarter-pound cookies and brownies are from Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe in Decatur. Open Monday through Saturday 10:30a to 7:30p, UDogs also caters to the college crowd with latenight hours on popular party nights. Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, the store re-opens from 11p to 3a to catch hungry patrons leaving nearby haunts, including Lock Stock, the Winery, and Donnie’s.
Get There: 1135 West Wood St., Decatur 217.422.2288 www.universitydogs.com
Agree? Disagree? Join the discussion at: Facebook.com/DecaturFoodDude. The Food Dude is not a professional critic. He just really, really likes food. 10 | november 2011
KIRKLAND FINE ARTS CENTER
ENGAGE THE ARTS
2011-2012 SEASON
Give the Gift of Entertainment with a Kirkland Gift Certificate! Visit the Kirkland Box Office or call 424-6318
Holiday Jazz
KFAC-5x3_875ThriveAd-1111
Saturday, December 17 7:30 p.m. TICKETS: adult $10-16 children $6-10 Tickets available at www.kirklandfinearts.com or call (217) 424-6318.
november 2011 | 11
12
THE LOCKER ROOM
by Troy Hayes
Skywalker International Sports Complex If you like boxing or dodgeball, or are trying to find a way to get your child into basketball, then Skywalker International Sports Complex is the place for you this month. Rodney Walker and Joe Flies, co-owners of the gym located in the former armory on Eldorado, will host local Golden Glove boxing champions Jordan Maxey and Martez Jones as they headline the Thanksgiving Massacre on November 19th at Skywalker. Fight nights are always a fan favorite at the complex, and Walker promises this one will be no different.
Also on tap at Skywalker in November, is the always popular caged dodgeball event to be held on November 12th. Flies and Walker set up a 60 x 60-foot cage on the gym floor for six-man teams to square off. There’s also a fundamental basketball league offered. Participants practice for ten weeks with fun exercises to better their basics of basketball all the while tutored by some of the best players in and around Decatur. Then they split into agespecific teams to play games to round out the sessions.
“This is our third boxing event here and it’s going to be a good one,” Walker said. “We have some really good fighters from Central Illinois coming in, and Jordan and Martez always put on a good show.”
The league has grown from 40 kids the first year Skywalker was open (2007) to more than 200 in 2010. Walker and Flies expect even more this year. Both say all participants leave better from the experience.
For Maxey, it marks a return to the ring after a long hiatus. He says he has rededicated himself to the sport after considering giving it up and expects his opponent, Marcellus Williams, will put him to the test. “Make no mistake. I’m looking to make a statement,” said the former Golden Gloves super heavyweight title holder. “But he (Williams) can hang around a minute. It won’t be easy, but I will be ready.”
“It’s neat. We have kids come here that are afraid of the ball and they end up being able to play a little bit.” Flies said. “It’s fun to watch the little kids get it. They come thinking they can’t get the ball to the rim and they are making shots on the big goals when the league is finished.” The fundamental league runs on Wednesdays for three months.
With the Golden Gloves title and a successful run in the amateur world championships, Maxey has the skill to make the sport a career.
Thanksgiving Massacre $10 - $25
“It’s what I want to do,” he said. “I just have to do it.”
Dodgeball cage tournament $50 team
There will be at least ten fights on the card in November, featuring fighters from all over Illinois. “The boxing shows are always a lot of fun, and always worth the price of admission,” Walker said. Seat prices start at $10 and go to $25 for the event.
3-on-3 Over 35 Basketball Tournament $125 team Fundamental Basketball League $100 Individual
TROY HAYES is a former sportswriter at the Herald & Review and currently is a co-host of “The Aric Lee Show,” heard each weekday from 3-6 p.m. on ESPNDecatur 1050 AM “The Fan” (WDZ). Troy Troy enjoys Breaking Away, Quicksilver and the Tour de France. 12 | november 2011
Then... Now that the holiday season is almost upon us, we are asking Ron and Kim Trump of Greentree Christmas Tree Farm how to spend a late fall evening. “Ron used to be quite the dancer,” says Kim. The Trumps used to boogie at local Decatur bars like The Light Company, which meant running into Honest Pod, who was a famous local used car salesman. “He must have been in his sixties, and doing the splits on the dance floor,” says Kim, “and Ron stepped on him.” You could also dance at Times Square, which had four different themed bars under one roof and always had at least three bands playing at the same time.
Now... Now between pruning in the summer, and running Trump Bros. Grain in the fall, and back for tree sales in early winter, they don’t get much time to boogie. But they still cut a rug, by following the Throttle Junkies and The Greg Bickers Band when they can. The Electric Playground is gone. The Kmart Plaza is now Rural King. But Pate is still active and impressed with Decatur’s giving. “Decatur is so willing to get behind a good cause,” says Pate. Pate’s weekends are a constellation of local charity events from the Samuelson/ Yelovich benefit and Bid for Bark, to the Rick Jones golf outing.
What’s Your Story? Send us an email! editor@thrivedecatur.com november 2011 | 13
The Bullet Trap
Top: Owner Dan Cooley proudly poses before the “now open “ banner at the Bullet Trap. Above: a look at the indoor range. Right: targets and ear protection - just a few of the items for sale or rent on site.
14 | november 2011
Targeting Sports & Fun words: Joli Hohenstein | photos: Sarah Jane
This is no mere shoot ’em up. This is recreational shooting sports showcased in a premium high end atmosphere designed for anyone from novices to marksmen. This is The Bullet Trap. “We’re not just about guns. This is a family oriented business for shooting sports. It’s about education, safety and the competition involved,” says Owner Dan Cooley, who built Macon’s newest business for love of the sport and lack of space. Simply put, he saw a need and filled it.
Of course hitting the target is never as easy as it sounds. It took Dan and a crew of volunteer laborers 90 days, 8 hours a day, 7 days a week to get it up to snuff. They renovated an existing building, pouring solid concrete block walls around all sides of the eight-lane pistol-rifle range and putting in an extensive ventilation system to meet Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards.
After spending the last year traveling and researching ranges online, he was ready to aim and fire, working with the National Rifle Association (NRA) Shooting Range Services Division and Action Target out of Utah to build the perfect range for opening in September. Looks like he’s hit it dead on, as shooters are coming from miles around to fire on the 50 foot lanes.
The range accommodates any caliber “The air inside is cleaner than the air we pistol, plus has one rifle lane for take in,” says Dan. “We empty the entire firearms up to .223 during normal building of all air once a minute, and we hours, and for larger by appointment. don’t receive any air—it’s all clean.” Competitive shooting leagues are coming soon (call or watch their All that also adds up to superior sound reduction and a superior experience for Facebook page for details). They’ll have contests like best scores on targets, shooters, something that was crucial bowling pin shoots, poker shoots. for Dan as he planned the range. “I’ve And for birthday parties and other participated in shooting sports for celebrations, The Bullet Trap is the years, and I wanted people to be able place—they’ve already had several to have a nice range around here,” he families reserve a block for their big day. says. “It should be an option for a five county area based on the number of continued on p.16 gun owners in my research.”
The Bullet Trap, continued from p.15 A fully equipped lounge and canteen area lets shooters relax or family and friends wait in comfort with satellite TV, a range camera, coffee and vending machines. The facility also features a new retail store offering ammo, targets, eye and ear protection, shooting supplies and firearm sales and rental. “We buy, trade and sell firearms; we have a vault area for store and storage,” says Dan. “It’s well protected and has a complete camera system. We watch the range at all times.”
Getting Started Getting started takes minutes if you’re a FOID card holder. (You must have a FOID card whether you bring your own gun or rent a gun, unless you are with an instructor or taking a class.
16 | november 2011
Need a FOID card? You can register on site.) Register, sign a waiver, watch an 8 minute safety video, get your range card, and you’re good to go. Never held a gun, or want to brush up, get your NRA certification or Florida concealed carry license? On-staff Bullet Trap instructors offer regular mixed classes or courses for women only several times a month. Learn gun handling, gun safety, range etiquette and more. In fact more is the key word for Dan, who’s loaded with ideas for the range. Future plans include three archery lanes coming by January 1, as well as possibly a locker room for added convenience.
“This range just makes sense with the growing field of shooting sports, increased interest in female protection and the concealed carry probability in Illinois,” he says. “We simply want to offer people a place for recreational shooting sports—and there’s no place local you can do that.” The Bullet Trap hits the spot.
A few upcoming courses:
Ladies Only NRA Basic Pistol Course - Nov 12 NRA Basic Pistol Course - Nov 26 NRA Basic Pistol Course (men and women) - Dec 10
Get There:
279 N. Front St., Macon 764-5678
Times:
Tu-Th: 10a-7p, Fr: 9a-8p, Sa: 9a-6p, Su: 12-5p
Prices:
Daily rate $14, monthly unlimited $35, yearly unlimited $399, yearly family unlimited $499. $7 for an additional shooter on the lane (two max per lane). Minimum age 12. Reloads allowed. Owner, Dan Cooley, at the Bullet Trap
Call the range for more details, or find them on Facebook.
november 2011 | 17
November Events EVERYDAY Barn Colony Art Show North Wing Gallery (Rock Springs Nature Center) Macon County 4Hers Artwork Decatur Public Library
next level with assistance from the Park District golf pros! Intermediate Junior Golf is designed for youth aged 9 - 16 who have successfully completed Junior Golf. $45 w res discount, 429.3472. DISC, 5:30-6:30p
EVERY WEDNESDAY Storytime (thru 11.16) Ages 2 and up. Stories, crafts, food (includes lunch for children). 692.2774, Blue Mound Memorial Library, 10:45a
Adult Indoor Soccer Open Play Toddler Time (thru 11.16) Adult soccer players can enjoy casual Storytime for children 18mo - 3yrs. Mt matches during this friendly open play Zion District Library, 9:30-10a session. $6 per week, DISC, 9-10p Rae Nell Spencer Artwork Kids Art Classes (thru 11.16) Decatur Airport EVERY MONDAY & THURSDAY Free after-school watercolor painting Walk & Talk (except 11.24) classes for 6th-8th grade students. Annual High School Art Show Beat the weather by walking indoors! Registration Required, 672.3621. Area high school students showcase Then join us for an optional book Barclay Public Library (220 S Main St, their talent and gain real-world discussion and coffee. Mt Zion District Warrensburg), 4p gallery experience. Perkinson Gallery Library (115 W Main, Mt Zion), 8-9a (Kirkland Fine Arts Center) Mobile Soundz Karaoke EVERY TUESDAY AIW Hall (2882 N Dineen St), 8p EVERY MONDAY 3-on-3 Basketball (Begins 11.8) Pre-School Soccer Showcase your basketball skills and DJ’s Lookin Good Good Lookin Children aged 3-4 will learn the basic take on two teams each week to Cornerstone Tavern (1190 Southside fundamentals of soccer and work fight for bragging rights! $100/team, Dr), 9p-2a on motor skills, coordination and 429.3472, DISC. 6-10p teamwork. Adults learn ways to help DJ Stevie Ray Kelton-aoke children practice and continue the Chess Club Jabroni’s, 9p development of these skills. $39 w www.decaturchessclub.com, res discount, 429.3472, DISC (1295 W Doherty’s Pub & Pins, 6p Open Mic Night Wood), 5-5:30p Donnie’s Homespun Pizza (126 S Sleepy Time Tales (thru 11.15) Oakland Ave), 9p-12a MidState Youth Indoor Soccer Mt Zion District Library, 6:30-7:30p Youth aged 5-12 will learn fundamentals Karaoke on the Stage and improve their soccer skills in Water Pong Tournament Lock Stock & Barrel, 429.7411, these fun, instructional sessions led Lock Stock & Barrel (129 S Oakland), lockstockdecatur.com, 9p-12a by MidState Soccer Club’s experienced 429.7411, lockstockdecatur.com, 10p coaches. Thirty-minute training EVERY WEDNESDAY-SATURDAY sessions are followed by 20-minute EVERY TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY Docta LD DJ/Karaoke games. 429.3472, DISC. $48 w res Indoor Junior Golf Curly’s Bar & Pizza (2683 N Water), discount, Times vary from 5:30-8:30p Kids aged 5-7 will learn hitting and 875.9800, 9p-2a putting fundamentals, golf rules, Indoor Intermediate and etiquette from Park District pros. Junior Golf Clubs are provided for those who need Juniors can take their swing to the them, $45 w res discount, 429.3472. DISC (1295 W Wood), 5-5:45p Dan Modzelewski Gallery 510 (160 E Main), 422.1509
18 | november 2011
To view even more events go to: www.thrivedecatur.com
EVERY THURSDAY Story Time (except 11.24) Story and a craft for ages 3-5. Mt Zion District Library, 10-11a Pre-School Golf Children aged 3-4 will learn the basics fundamentals of golf by focusing on coordination, simple techniques and motor skills. Adults also learn ways to help their child practice and develop these skills. $31 w res discount, 429.3472, DISC (1295 W Wood), 5-5:45p or 6-6:45p DJ Stevie Ray Kelton Timbuktu (5843 E State Rt 36), 9p EVERY FRIDAY Big Daddy’s Frank’s DJ and Karaoke Rocco’s, 9p-1a EVERY FRIDAY-SATURDAY Wine Tastings The Decanter Fine Wines (215 N Main St), 422.9463. Fr 4-7p, Sa 1-6p EVERY SATURDAY U9-U14 Boys & Girls Indoor Soccer Leagues Soccer players aged 8-13 can extend their season with a 7-week indoor soccer league at the DISC! Teams play two 24-minute halves each weekend, with 7 players and a goalie. $51 w res discount. DISC (1295 W Wood), 429.3472
Classical Guitar Live on the Patio, Donnie’s Homespun Pizza, 7-9:30p Ronnie’s DJ Benny’s Grill, 9p 10.31-11.23 After All These Years: Works by Bob Donderville Bob Dondeville shares his rarely seen artwork embodying personal, mind scaring memories and emotions from his life-changing Vietnam experiences. Incorporated tangible objects including shrapnel, mosquito netting, and a small prayer book visually weave a story of a young soldier’s life...affected by war. Erlanson Gallery (Richland Community College), 10a3p (Mo-Fr) 11.1-11.2 Seedy Exploration We are going nutty for seeds during this camp! We will investigate the variety of fall seeds and learn why they are so special. 9a (Tu: Ages 1-4 w/adult); 1p (We: Ages 3-4 w/adult) Wednesday, 2 Greater Decatur Chamber Business Breakfast Annual Meeting The Decatur Club (158 W Prairie), 7a Book Discussion Group We get the books and you read them. Barclay Public Library, 10:30a
Books Between Bites “Mark Twain in the News” with Dr. Michael O’Conner, Associate Professor of English at Millikin University and Hardy Distinguished Professor of English chair, and a Mark Twain scholar. Madden Auditorium, 12:15p 11.2-11.28 The Art of Ray George Decatur Area Arts Council presents prints by the late master printmaker, Ray George. A visionary in his formal abstractions, George breathed life, pathos, surprise, and humor into geometry. From collographs to etchings, monoprints to intaglio prints, he produced unlimited expression with a rich visual appeal. Madden Arts Center (125 N Water St), 8:30a-4:30p (Mo-Fr), 10a-2p (Sa) Thursday, 3 Bored Night Relieve the boredom with board games at Wildflour. Bring a group or come by yourself and join one! Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe (256 W Main), 5p wildflourartisanbakery.com
Did you know?
Listing your event with THRIVE is absolutely FREE! Send your info by the 15th to: events@thrivedecatur.com
november 2011 | 19
November Events 11.3-11.5 Pride of the Prairie Marble Show Free Admission. Displays, trading, buying and selling, 872.2402. Country Inn & Suites (5150 Hickory Point Frontage Rd). 9a-2p 11.3-11.6 Almost, Maine Pipe Dreams Studio Theatre, 9p (ThSa), 2p (Su) Friday, 4 BC Studios Grand Opening Come celebrate the grand opening of BC Studios, Millikin University’s new arts and business incubator in the lower level of Blue Connection. Current tenants range from handmade bag, earring, and bow makers to custom t-shirt designers and screen printers. Lower Level, Blue ConnectionDowntown. 5-8p First Friday Gallery Walk Gallery 510, 5-8p Downtown Gallery Walk Featuring Alexa Snyder, Paintings. Music by Second Wind. Blue Connection-Downtown. 5-8p Star Gazing Party Join us as we take a look at groups of stars known as constellations. We will see the Andromeda Galaxy, Pegasus, and the Big Dipper. Cookies and hot chocolate will be served. Reservations required. Rock Springs Nature Center, 6:30p
20 | november 2011
Trials & Tribulations A one-man performance reflecting on the life and legal career of America’s greatest trial attorney, Clarence Darrow, by Kevin Bry, an Oak Park attorney and professional actor. Open seating tickets $15; students and seniors (60+) $10 Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe (256 W Main) www. wildflourartisanbakery.com, 6:30p Black n Blue Band Sliderz Bar & Grille, 9p Kung Fu Dynamite Lock Stock & Barrel, 9p-1a Tympanic Blues Band AIW Hall (2882 Dineen St), 9p DJ Slacker dubstep Donnie’s Homespun Pizza, 9:30p-12a 11.4-11.5 Bazaar Crafts, gifts, candy, baked goods, peanut brittle. Gospel Chapel Annex (1585 N Woodlawn), 8a-5p Decatur Underground Theatre in Concert A night of cocktails, fine dining and DUT’s finest, performing a selection from Broadway shows. For tickets, 791.1966. The Decatur Club, $40. Cocktails 6p, Dinner 6:30p
Saturday, 5 Rummage Sale Proceeds will benefit St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Clothing, household goods, sporting good, electronics/computer, furniture, craft items. AIW Hall, 8a-4p Photo Glass Mosaics Turn a favorite photo into a glass mosaic keepsake. Grades 2-6. Decatur Area Arts Council, $20, 423.3189, 9-10:45a Preschool Peepers: Turkey Talk Youth ages 3-5 are invited to learn about turkeys with skulls, feathers, and more! Afterwards we will search for sights and sounds of turkeys on the trails. Rock Springs Nature Center, 10a Paint to Wear Design and paint your own lightcolored, cotton T-shirt, jeans, cap or canvas shoes. $25, 423.3189, Grades 2-6, Decatur Area Arts Council, 11a-1p Holiday Express Vendor Show Scensty, Mary Kay, Lia Sophia, Pure Romance, Beach Body, homemade crafts and other vendors. Open to the public, 521.7297. Sliderz Bar & Grille Warehouse, 11a-3p
Lee Slider aka Professor Phineas Fairhead: Having Your Head Examined by Phrenology A huge fad in Mid-Nineteenth Century Mt Zion Swingsations Fall Show America, phrenology, a method of Lincoln Square Theatre determining ones abilities by the size of the bumps or depressions on ones Northeast Community skull, became a method for individual Fund Food Drive Mt Zion Lutheran Church (1475 W Main St Mt Zion). 1-6p (Fr), 8a-2p (Sa)
To view even more events go to: www.thrivedecatur.com
and social reform. Madden Auditorium 11.5-11.6 (Decatur Public Library), 1p Holiday Open House Wabash Depot Antiques Center (780 E Dixie Daredevils Cerro Gordo), 233.0800, 10a-5p(Sa); Lock Stock & Barrel (129 S Oakland), 12-5p(Su) 429.7411, lockstockdecatur.com, 4-6p Sunday, 6 The STILL Autumn Spectacular Cross Sliderz Bar & Grille, 4-7p Country Meet Ages 7-14, who are interested in Hungrytown distance running.$10, 423.3472, Seating is limited, so please come to Fairview Park, Registration 12:30p, the Reference Desk for your free ticket. Course Walk 1p, Race 1:30p Decatur Public Library, 7p Falling Back Hike Frost Yer Knuts Poker Run Time to set your clocks back one hour. Bring three toys and a full tank of gas. If you don’t, you will be early for this Run begins (11a) at Hooter’s in Peoria leisurely fall hike along the Discovery and includes three stops to drop off Trail. Rock Springs Nature Center, 2p toys. Ends at Pop’s Place. 11a-6p Monday, 7 DJ Monday Night Jazz Lock Stock & Barrel (129 S Oakland), Lock Stock & Barrel (129 S Oakland), 429.7411, lockstockdecatur.com, 8p 429.7411, lockstockdecatur.com, 6-8p The Sugar Prophets Pop’s Place, 8p
Tuesday, 8 Bluegrass Jam Lock Stock & Barrel (129 S Oakland), 429.7411, lockstockdecatur.com, 7p
Thursday, 10 Story hour Children ages 5 and younger and their caregivers. We’ll read stories, make crafts, sing songs, and more! Oreana Library, 10-11a Native Americans in Illinois Did you know that the Kickapoo and Potawatomi are intertwined with the history of Decatur and the surrounding area? Melody Arnold will present Native American history and lore during this intriguing volunteer training. Genuine and reproduced artifacts will also be displayed. Rock Springs Nature Center, 1p Bob Dondeville Reception Erlandson Gallery (Richland Community College) 12-1p Greater Decatur Chamber Business After Hours Center for Sustainability and Innovations Rotunda Room (Richland Comm. College), 5-7p
Smoothtimes Band Mt Zion Chamber Come get your funk/jazz/blues on and Business After Hours help Abby celebrate the big 3-0! Paco’s Wednesday, 9 Decatur Jewelry & Pawn, 5-10p Sol Bistro, 9p-12a Dove Community Breakfast Dean Simcox Conference Center (302 S YungWorld, K.O.fficial Union), 7:30-8:30a Cornerstone Tavern, 9p Mt Zion Chamber Luncheon Your Villain My Hero Main Hanger, 11:30a Sliderz Bar & Grille Warehouse, 10p Matt Walker DJ Philbilly Kirkland Fine Arts Center, 6:30p Sliderz Bar & Grille Main Bar, 10p Listing your event with THRIVE is absolutely FREE! Send your info by the 15th to: events@thrivedecatur.com
Did you know?
november 2011 | 21
November Events ARTini & Potato Bar Gallery 510 Fundraising event featuring art, martinis, and a potato (and mac n cheese) bar. Music by Manley Mallard, $30, Paco’s Sol Bistro (237 N Main), 5:30-8:30p Vocal Jazz Concert One Voice & Blu-Bop, Westminster Church, 7:30p
LHP Make your dinner reservations early, Lourash, Hursh and Peoples always pack the house! Paco’s Sol Bistro, 8-11p
Mt Zion Gettin’ on Track 5K Run/Walk Drawings, Awards, Refreshments. Mt Zion High School, 9-11a
Black Magic Johnson Lock Stock & Barrel (129 S Oakland), 429.7411, lockstockdecatur.com, 9p-12a
2nd Saturday Book Sale Decatur Public Library, 9:30a-12:30p
Brushfire Live Karaoke Band Sliderz Bar & Grille, 9p Yes you sing with the band! Sliderz Bar & Grille,8p Paranormal Workshop Tour Adam White, 972.8606 for ticket info Friday, 11 Book Discussion 11.11-11.12 To register for book club, contact Guys & Dolls the library. 692.2774, Blue Mound Maroa-Forsyth Middle School Music Memorial Library, 1:30p Department, $5, 794.3463, MaroaForsyth HS Cafetorium. 7p Bronze Man Books Poetry reading and celebration 11.11-11.13 of Bronze Man’s 5th Anniversary. Sweet Smell of Success: Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe Fall Musical www.wildflourartisanbakery.com, 6p Kirkland Fine Arts Center (Millikin University), $12-19.50, 424.6318, TWI-HARD Trivia Night 7:30p (Fr, Sa), 2p (Su) Jimmy Ryan’s is throwing an all out Twihard Trivia Night. Watch past 11.11-11.13 & 11.18-11.20 Twilight movies on the big screens, Assassins test your Twilight trivia skills and drink Shilling Auditorium (RCC), 7:30p (Fr, Jacob & Edward inspired cocktails. Sa); 3p (Su) Prizes awarded to top winning teams/ tables! $20 or table $150. Seating Saturday, 12 limited to 8 tables, so reserve your 7th Annual “Old Fashioned” seat now! Jimmy Ryans. Ticket price Holiday Bazaar includes complimentary appetizers Handcrafted and handmade arts, from 6:30-7:30p Trivia starts 7p crafts, baked goods, candies, cards, jewelry, doll clothes, dry mixes & dips, Annual Veteran’s Day Show trinkets, floral arrangements, purses, Lincoln Square Theatre, 7p fleece items and much much more. First Church of the Nazarene (1177 W Hickory Point Rd), 8a
22 | november 2011
Dulcimer Club Rock Springs Nature Center, 10a Animal Crackers: Remarkable Reptiles Children aged 3 – 5 will listen to a story, meet an animal, create a craft with their adult guests, and snack on animal crackers! $8 w res discount, Scovill Zoo (71 S Country Club), 9:3010:15a or 11-11:45a Book Discussion Group We get the books and you read them. Barclay Public Library, 672.3621. 11a National Gaming Day Come play board games and video games at your library! We will participate in the largest, simultaneous national video game tournament ever held! Madden Auditorium (Decatur Public Library), 1-3p Soul Purpose Sliderz Bar & Grille, 4-7p Harley’s Heroes We celebrate all veterans and current military personnel. DAV representatives will be on hand to help veterans with benefits they may not know they are eligible for. Coziahr H-D
To view even more events go to: www.thrivedecatur.com
Candlelight Tour Tour Homestead Prairie Farm by candlelight and lamplight while learning about life in 1860s Illinois from guides in period costume. Free. Rock Springs Conservation Area. 6:30-8:30p Celebrate! The Legacy of Learning Celebrating the accomplishments of Decatur Public School Alumni, proceeds benefit students of Decatur Public Schools through grants to teachers, evening wear. Reservations Required, 424.3300. Richards Treat University Center (Millikin University) Reception 6p, Dinner 7p
Sunday,13 Bluegrass Music Jams Rock Springs Nature Center, 1-4p
Fall Jazz Concert MU Jazz Band I & II, Westminster Church, 7:30p
Christmas Basket Workshop Looking for a home-made Christmas present for a loved one? Join experienced basket maker, Trish Handel, for this hands-on workshop for ages 13 and up. Fee $15/ basket. Reservations required by 11.4. Rock Springs Nature Center, 1-4p
11.15-11.16 I’m Piney for You The pine forest is a stimulating place year round. We will use our senses to explore the magic that is found in our pine forest. Rock Springs Nature Center. 1p (Tu: Ages 3-4 w/adult), 9a (We: Ages 1-4 w/adult)
Decatur Blues Society Jam Lead Band - Blue Buddha. Doherty’s Pub & Pins, 3p
Wednesday, 16 Decatur Gamer’s Club The Decatur Club, 5p
Organist Dale Rogers in Concert Decatur Genealogical Society Central Christian Church (650 W Annual Dinner Meeting GLAD Social and Potluck Dinner William), 4p Speaker Kent Newton presents Gather for conversation, dinner, and the history of the Decatur Brewing program activity. GLAD socials are held Monday, 14 Company including its growth, in a safe, accepting environment for all Monday Night Jazz products, its connection to Pabst people. For more info, GLADDecatur. Lock Stock & Barrel (129 S Oakland), Brewery, and its struggle to stay in com. Gather at 6:30p, dinner at 7p 429.7411, lockstockdecatur.com, 6-8p business against local temperance efforts and during nationwide Texas Hippie Coalition Tuesday, 15 Prohibition. $18, Scovill Banquet Bunkers Bar (Old Rt 36, Illiopolis), 7p Manley Students Facilities (3909 W Main St). 6p Donnie’s Homespun Pizza, 12-1p RockKandy Cornerstone Tavern, 8p Children’s Author Speaks Jim Aylesworth has written at least Autumn Zero 35 children’s books. He will give a AIW Hall, 9p memorable rendition of some of his favorites, and talk about the Thin Ice art of writing in a presentation Pop’s Place, 9p-1a recommended for children 5yrs & up, parents, teachers and anyone with an Trash Martini interest in children’s literature. Decatur Sliderz Bar & Grille, 9:30p Public Library, 7p
Did you know?
Listing your event with THRIVE is absolutely FREE! Send your info by the 15th to: events@thrivedecatur.com
november 2011 | 23
November Events H-D Motorcycle Boot Camp Basic training for guys who are ready to ride. Learn about everything from the headlights to the tailpipes, and find the perfect bike for you. Bring a buddy, and get ready to kickstart some good times. 877.7115, Coziahr H-D (150 W Marion Ave), 6:30-9p Decatur History Club Children’s Auditorium (Decatur Public Library), 7p University Bands Concert Featuring University Symphonic Wind Ensemble and University Concert Band. Albert Taylor Theatre, 7:30p Thursday, 17 DPL Book Club Board Rm (Decatur Public Library), 1p Escaping Neverland Sliderz Bar & Grille, 8p Friday, 18 Latin Jazz Lock Stock & Barrel (129 S Oakland), 429.7411, lockstockdecatur.com, 5:30-7:30p Rebel Yell $5, Wildflour Artisan Bakery & Cafe (256 W Main) www. wildflourartisanbakery.com, 6-8p Symphony Holiday Cabaret Decatur Club Ballroom, 6p Careful What You Wish For: Episode 2 Pipe Dreams Studio Theatre, 9p
24 | november 2011
808 Band Sliderz Bar & Grille, 9p Eric Burgett Lock Stock & Barrel (129 S Oakland), 429.7411, lockstockdecatur.com, 9p Saturday, 19 Hunter Breakfast Biscuits & gravy, sausage, pancakes and eggs. Orders to go available. Tabernacle Baptist Church, 4-10a Fused Glass Ornaments Create one-of-a-kind holiday ornaments made of glass! Grades 2-6, $20, 423.3189, Decatur Area Arts Council. 9-10:45a 2nd Annual Fall Bazaar French Academy (520 W Wood St), 9a-2p Christmas Bazaar Crafts, vendors, and bake sale. Holy Family School, 9a-2p Turkey Trot Road Race 5K Run, 10K Run or 5K Walk. $22, Fairview Park. 429.3472. Check-in 8-8:45a, Race 9a Lego Club Play and learn with LEGOs at the Blue Mound Memorial Library! For boys and girls of all ages! Activities include a story, snacks and creative play! The creations the children make will be on display at the library. 10:30a-12p Cut it Out! Enjoy creating yourself from colored paper! Grades 2-6, $25, 423.3189, Decatur Area Arts Council. 11a-1p
Family Fun-Wild Goose Chase Honk if you like nature! Pick up a pair of binoculars and join the naturalists on an informational hike to the wetland. You will learn about migrating birds along your journey and hopefully spot a few ducks. Rock Springs Nature Center, 1p Diversity Lock Stock & Barrel (129 S Oakland), 429.7411, lockstockdecatur.com, 4-6p The Sugar Prophets Sliderz Bar & Grille, 4p Lighted Decatur Jaycees Christmas Parade 413.0990, Downtown Decatur, 5:30p Lita Ford with Riverbottom Nightmare Band Bunkers (220 Old Rt 36, Illiopolis), $27 adv/$30 day of. 7-10p Escaping Neverland Cornerstone Tavern, 8p DJ Philbilly Sliderz Bar & Grille Main Bar, 9p Feudin Hillbillys Sliderz Bar & Grille Warehouse, 9p Rhythm Method Lock Stock & Barrel, 429.7411, lockstockdecatur.com, 9p-12a The Sugar Prophets Wild Dog Saloon, 9:30p
To view even more events go to: www.thrivedecatur.com
11.19-11.20 Midwest Open Taekwondo Championship $5 at door, Decatur Conference Center & Hotel. Registration 8a-2p; Tournament 10a St. John’s Journey to Bethlehem Living Nativity Featured are 80 characters, live animals, including camels, llamas, donkeys, cows, sheep and goats .St. John’s Lutheran Church (2727 N Union Blvd), 875.3656. Walk-thru 4:305:15p, Drive-thru 5:30-8p Game Camp 2011 Two days of non-stop gaming. We will have the whole camp to ourselves – including several gaming areas. Camp Warren (Long Creek), www.decaturgamers.com
State of Grace Argenta Baptist Church, 6p
Friday, 25 Elf Workshop Parents, drop the kids off at the Singles/Couples Dance Museum and hit up the Black Friday with live band sales! Children are invited to this Proceeds to New Life Pregnancy Center Elf Workshop where we will make our & Heritage Behavioral Center. $10, own presents to give at Christmas! Knights of Columbus. 5-8p We will have a snack and explore the Museum. Please provide a sack lunch. Tuesday, 22 $15, Children’s Museum of IL, 9a-1p For This We Give Thanks 59th Annual Greater Decatur Chamber Shawn Schollenbruch of Commerce Thanksgiving Luncheon, Schollenbruch performs blues Decatur Civic Center, $20, 11:30a-1p instrumentals on acoustic guitar. Stop by Wildflour for lunch before Nonfiction Book Club Heritage & Holly. Wildflour Artisan “Cadillac Desert”by Marc Reisner. Board Bakery & Cafe (256 W Main) www. Room (Decatur Public Library), 1p wildflourartisanbakery.com, 2-4p Greater Decatur Chamber Business After Hours McKinley Court Care Center (500 W McKinley Ave), 5-7p
Sunday, 20 Sports Card & Collectibles Show Wednesday, 23 Decatur Conference Center (4191 US LHP Acoustic Hwy 36), 9a Sliderz Bar & Grille, 8p Hibernating Herps The weather is getting colder and our cold blooded friends, the amphibians and reptiles, are digging in for the winter. Join us to discover more about the life of amphibians and reptiles. Rock Springs Nature Center, 2p MU Faculty Woodwind Quintet Decatur Public Library, 2p
Flat Land Pop’s Place, 7p-1a
Chris Bradley Lock Stock & Barrel, 8p-12a Escaping Neverland Sliderz Bar & Grille, 9p Saturday, 26 Dulcimer Club Rock Springs Nature Center, 10a
Thursday, 24 Matt Carter Band The perfect way to entertain the family after Thanksgiving dinner! Sliderz Bar & Grille, 9p
Did you know? Listing your event with THRIVE is absolutely FREE! Send your info by the 15th to: events@thrivedecatur.com
november 2011 | 25
November Events Turkey Trot Hike Eat too much for Thanksgiving? Who didn’t? Burn a few calories and look for wildlife on a brisk hike at Rock Springs Conservation Area. 10a Kevin Hart Lock Stock & Barrel (129 S Oakland), 429.7411, lockstockdecatur.com, 4-6p Kidd Kadillac Sliderz Bar & Grille, 4p Blue Expression Lock Stock & Barrel, 429.7411, lockstockdecatur.com, 8-11p RIverbottom Nightmare Band Sliderz Bar & Grille Warehouse, 9p DJ Philbilly Sliderz Bar & Grille Main Bar, 9p
New Creation Trio West Decatur Church of God, 6:30p Monday, 28 Decatur Youth Symphony Orchestra Central Christian Church, 7:30p Tuesday, 29 Holiday Decorating We are looking for some jolly elves to help decorate the nature center for the holidays. Volunteers will assist in decorating two Christmas trees and the area around the Information Desk. Lunch and laughter will be provided. Rock Springs Nature Center, 10a-1p Decatur Gamer’s Club Godfather’s Pizza, 5p
11.30 Art Bazaar and Celebration Juried art for sale, portfolio reviews, gallery exhibits, onstage performances, and student presentations. Mueller Student Center, Erlanson Gallery, and Board Room (Richland Community College). 10a-3p 12.1 CD Release Party Kilborn Alley Blues Band sponsored by Decatur Blues Society. Club Room (Decatur Club), 7p 12.2-12.3 The Nutcracker A Holiday Tradition at Richland Community College. Shilling Auditorium, 7p (Fr&Sa), 2:30 (Su)
Opus 24 St Patrick Catholic Church (407 E Eldo), 12.3 11.26-11.28 429.5363, 7:30p Christmas Gala H-D Food Drive & The Nutcracker Christmas season kick off and food 11.29-11.30 Decatur Civic Center, drive. Celebrate the season Harley Auditions for Bathroom Humor $6, 972.5696, 1 & 7p style! Coziahr H-D. “Bathroom Humor” is a hilarious farce with a novel setting: the play takes Sunday, 27 place in the bathroom of a home Sacred Madrigal Singers Dinner during a party; a handy place for $20, First United Methodist Church, gossip and hanky panky, where we 12:30p learn of the wild and crazy things going on at the party. Theatre 7 Winter Woods Hike (131 N Water), 7p Old Man Winter is just around the corner! Join the naturalist on a hike to explore the changes in the forest as winter approaches. Rock Springs Nature Center, 2p
Did you know?
Listing your event with THRIVE is absolutely FREE! Send your info by the 15th to: events@thrivedecatur.com
26 | november 2011
november 2011 | 27
Visual Guide to:
ASSASSINS
The Musical
with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by John Weidman
Based on an idea by Charles Gilbert, Jr., Assassins portrays men and women who attempted (some successfully, in fact) to assassinate Presidents of the United States in a revue-style, spring boarding from a murderous carnival game premise.
LEATHER JOURNAL Hiding out in the barn after assassinating President Lincoln in 1865, John Wilkes Booth asks David Herold to take down his “indictment” of Lincoln and write out a justification of his acts to counterbalance the speculations in the media that he was insane.
ABOUT THE MUSIC:
JODIE FOSTER PHOTO John Hinckley’s obsession with Jodie Foster was the driving force behind his attempted assassination of Ronald Regan in 1981. The photo of Foster in Taxi Driver was his ideal vision of her and he believe that he would save her and they would be together.
BOW TIE This brown and simple bow tie is worn by David Herold, friend of and accomplice to John Wilkes Booth. Only 23 and impressionable, he helped Booth to the barn where the final standoff would take place and surrendered to authorities. He was later executed by hanging along with 3 other accomplices to the assassination.
Sondheim uses a variety of musical styles as well as dissonance, spoken word, and intense, unpredictable harmonies to weave together the stories of 9 individual assassins. By contrasting styles of music Sondheim displays the tragedy, absurdity and horror of the events surrounding the assassinations.
28 | november 2011
CANE The Proprietor, who operates like a circus ringmaster, complete with red and white striped jacket and cane, acts as the instigator to the assassins as he sells them their guns in Act 1 and returns throughout the show to propel the action forward.
1899 COCA-COLA BOTTLE Leon Czolgosz, assassin to President William McKinley worked in a glass factory and gives a heartbreaking monologue about the brutality of his work after John Hinckley accidentally breaks one of the bottles.
MANNLICHER-CARCANO 6.5 MILLIMETER This is the rifle that Lee Harvey Oswald used to assassinate President John F. Kennedy from the window of the Texas School Book Depository.
words: Michelle Stephens | photos: Sarah Jane
9MM DETECTIVE SNUB-NOSE This revolver is used by Samuel Byck to hijack the plane he intended to fly into the White House to assassinate President Richard Nixon. Byck would later use the gun to commit suicide after being mortally wounded by an officer firing through the door window from the jetway.
See Assassins! You can see Assassins at Richland Community College’s Shilling Auditorium November 11-13, & 18-20. (Not appropriate for children.) For more info: www.richland.edu/theatre
november 2011 | 29
WJMU The Quad: Making ‘Waves’ in the Decatur Community For many Millikin University students, the school’s community does not extend much farther than Donnie’s Homespun Pizza on Oakland, and the First Presbyterian Church on the other side of the university grounds; this area in between is frequently referred to as the “Millibubble” and tends to keep students out of theknow, and vice-versa with the Decatur locals.
WJMU “The Quad” is Millikin’s radio station, where students come together to share their knowledge of music, sports, and topical news, both local and global, with a variety of listeners. Their broadcast programs prove efficient when it comes to ‘bursting’ the Millibubble! I had the opportunity to sit down with the WJMU crew to discuss how the university’s team has new and developing programs, which aim to strengthen the social and professional network between students and locals. WJMU broadcasts from inside Seaney Studio in the bottom of Richard-Treat University Center on campus. During the interview, I met with the four members of the executive team to get the low-down on how they affect Millikin and Decatur residents, plus how they’re “broadening” their audience via the internet. Newest to the team and the Millikin faculty is Sam Meister. Along with assuming the title as general manager, he has helped create the latest addition to the program list: a sports talk show. Aptly called “This is The Sports Show”, the discussions cover college level and pro-
words: Jentry Grader photography: Travis Lickey Left to Right; Jake Ray, Justin Vanderlaan, and Ali Oremus inside Seaney Studio.
30 | november 2011
league sport topics, as well as spread the word about Millikin’s athletes, give game time play-by-plays, and disclose any upcoming sports events. Another development for Millikin is the concentration in ‘sports communication’ now being offered by the communications department. “Sports commentary is in high demand right now,” says Meister, “Plus, it contributes to the diversity Millikin has to offer.” As for the musical selection streaming out of WJMU, listeners enjoy an assortment of alternative and indie sounds compiled by the music director, student Justin Vanderlaan. Aside from promoting the lesser-known groups of the alternative and indie genres, Vanderlaan and the team spoke of their support for student artists, such as the groups Dari, The Great Waltz, and Krishna. Ali Oremus and Jake Ray are the students in charge of the programs that are aired on WJMU. They divulged excitedly on their current shows and projections being set in motion. “We try to address topics and news that not only is relevant to students, but all listeners. Every half-hour, we have a special ‘campus news’ feature, but also we keep informed on involvement opportunities and fun events in the community,” says Oremus. Jake Ray said, “We actually receive a lot of support from the Decatur community—restaurants like Paco’s and Jimmy John’s play our station at work, and I’ve had a lot of feedback from the local high school kids that they really love our music.” continued: p.32
november 2011 | 31
from: p.31
Ray then revealed how the internet has helped them further their public connection. “Our latest undertaking in the advancement of WJMU is a constant streaming of our broadcasts, music, and programs on the internet. It is on the Millikin University website, in the WJMU section. We hope that this development gains Millikin, the students, and even Decatur recognition in all their efforts and achievements.” “We are now available internationally,” says Oremus, “We even have a fan of the station who lives in Russia! And, of course, social networks like Facebook added a major boost to the station’s connection with people. Students
SPECIAL PROGRAMS LINE-UP:
International Night:
Wednesdays @ 8-10p (Programs in Spanish & a Bollywood segment)
Classic Rock
Tuesdays @ 10p-12a
“This Is The Sports Show” Fridays and Mondays @ 7-8p
“Movies On The Radio” Fridays @ 5-6p
Photo: Justin Vanderlaan at the mic.
32 | november 2011
who have radio shows or work for the station will also post about when to stay tuned for different programs, and simply promote WJMU in that way.” Things at the station are unquestionably going well for the WJMU team. Fresh voices and ideas, a positive role in the community, and an innovative approach to circulating their message - the one thing that WJMU does look to build upon is their connection and sponsorship through downtown businesses. Their contact information is also found on the Millikin University website, listed as “WJMU”. Stay tuned to 89.5 WJMU- The Quad!
november 2011 | 33
34 | november 2011
SPOT THE 6 DIFFERENCES For a chance to win a $50 Gift Card from
Wildflour Artisan Bakery and CafĂŠ 256 West Main Street - Decatur | 422.3300 | wildflourartisanbakery.com
2 WAYS TO WIN: 1. Find all 6 differences and earn 2 entries!
Send an email by Nov 15th to contests@thrivedecatur.com that includes your name and the 6 differences. 2. Couldn’t find all the differences? Visit THRIVE Decatur on Facebook on Nov15th to see the password. Email us the word along with your name to earn 1 entry. Winners will be drawn on Nov 16th and notified via email. One entry per email address. november 2011 | 35
TRY OUT OUR NEW
SPOT THE DIFFERENCE CHALLENGE FIND ALL 6 DIFFERENCES FOR A CHANCE TO WIN:
SPOT
THE
6 DIF F Wildflou nce to win a $50 E R E N C E S r G A r tisan B ift Card from 256 Wes t Main St reet - De a ke r y a n catur | 42 2.3300 | d C a fé wildflour ar tisanba kery.com For a cha
$50 Gift Card from Wildflour Artisan Bakery and Café See page 35 to play 2 WAY
TWO WAYS TO WIN:
S
TO W contests@ Visit THRI thrivedecatur.co IN: 1. Find al to earn VE Decatur on Fa m that includes yo l 6 differences an 1 entry. Winners cebook on Nov1 ur name and the d earn 2 entries 5th ! Se will be dr 6 awn on to see the pass differences. 2. Co nd an email by wo Nov 16th ul No and notif rd. Email us the dn’t find all the di v 15th to word ied via em ffe ail. One along with yo rences? ur entry pe r email name address. no ve m be r 20
11 | 35
1. Find all 6 differences and earn 2 entries! Send an email by Nov 15th to contests@thrivedecatur.com that includes your name and the 6 differences. 2. Couldn’t find all the differences? Visit THRIVE Decatur on Facebook on Nov15th to see the password. Email us that word along with your name to earn 1 entry. Winners will be drawn on Nov 16th and notified via email. One entry per email address.