READiculous

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE CHALLENGE: Mowry Baking Co.

F R E EJa n 2 015

Freeze Your Butt OffCamping Trip

SPOTLIGHT// The Fabric CobblerART SPEAK// What's Your Thing?

FOOD DUDE// Raspberry Tea Room

Q&A: Chuck Beck

THRIVE is a free, monthly entertainment guide published by Showcard Studio and distributed on the first of the each month.PO Box 6195 • Decatur, IL 62524217.791.5653 www.thrivedecatur.com

Listing your entertainment event with THRIVE

is absolutely FREE! Send your information by the 15th to events@thrivedecatur.com

02 | January 2015

Disclaimer: The contents of this magazine are covered by copyright. Reproduction in-par t 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. Ever y effor t has been made to present all information accurately; however, no liability is accepted for any inclusions or omissions from the publication.

Publisher: Katrina Smalley publisher@thrivedecatur.com

The Eventor: Stephanie Zimmerman events@thrivedecatur.com

Editor and Senior Writer: Joli Hohenstein

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Contributors: Jo Caulkins Jerry Johnson Kim Mangan Rachel Peabody Robin Walters

Photographers: Sarah Jane Gil Lebois Kim Mangan Alida Duff Sullivan Robin Walters

Layout Design: Showcard Studio

Printing: Wood Printing

Special thanks to the Macon Resources CAPS Program (Community Awareness, Possibilities & Supports) and ECNO Group (Empowering Community Network Opportunities) for all your help with delivering THRIVE each month!

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Berger Insurance • Lock Stock & Barrel • Lyle Campbell & Sons Realty • Macon County Farm Bureau • Mi Pueblito • Millikin University - Alumni House • Modern Furniture Showroom • Mom's Place • Mystic Tan • Pop’s Place • Pride Coin Laundry • Richland Fairview Park Plaza Center • Secret Garden Express • Sound Check Music Center • Speed Lube • Subway • Swartz Properties • Tasty’s Chicago Grille • The Drive-In Antique Mall • The Glass House • The Winery • University Dogs • Wethington Fresh Flowers & Gifts, Inc • Whitestar Home Healthcare Services • ARGENTA • Gerber State Bank • Village Hall • BLUE MOUND • Blue Mound Village Hall • Dippin’ Merv’s • P&G Quickstop • FORSYTH • Applebee’s • Architectural Expressions • Area 51 Salon • Aspen Dental • Baymont Inn & Suites • Cohn Furniture • Colee's Corner Drugs • Country Inn & Suites • Coziahr Harley Davidson • Kids N’ Fitness • Old Book Barn • Petals • Quality Inn • Ramada Limited • Roots Salon • Speed Lube • St Mary's Family Medicine • Texas Roadhouse • The Fabric Cobbler • Welcome Hotel & Suites • HARRISTOWN • Sanders Harristown Antique Depot • MACON • The Bullet Trap • MAROA • Casey’s General Store • Freedom Gas • Main Street Café • MT. ZION • Bliss Salon • Collect Them • Corona’s • Coz’s Pizza • Decatur Jewelry & Pawn II • Del’s Express • Filippo’s Pizza • Good Naber Specialty Foods • Hawthorne Suites by Wyndham • Krave • Krekel's • M3 Salon • Mt Zion District Library • Mt Zion Village Hall • Neil Tire & Auto Service • Next of Kiln • Pizza Hut • Priceless Smiles/Styles & Smiles • Russ Proesel DDS • Spa Villa • Temmen Advanced Eyecare • The Fisherman’s Quarters • Unique Boutique • OREANA • Gerber State Bank • Nola’s Hair Salon • Oreana Public Library • WARRENSBURG • Barclay Library • Da Burg • The Perfect Pair Antiques & Salon

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS

January 2015 | 03

in this ISSUEi ssue #68 | Januar y 2015w w w.thr ivedecatur.com

O n T H E c O V E RS usan Bishop ( lef t)

and Al issa Henkel ( r ight) , co - creators

of READ ic ulous.Photo: Al ida

D uff S ul l ivan

THRIVEis created and printed locally, in Decatur, IL.

THRIVE is a proud member of the MICRO BUSINESS NETWORK

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

THRIVE is pr inted us ing 10% Post Consumer Waste, SFI , FSC, Green- eCer t i f ied papers.

BEHInD THE THRIVE 04 December Out & About 05 SPOTLIGHT: The Fabric Cobbler 08 Party crashers' crash of the Month 09 ART SPEAK: What's Your Thing? 10 Publisher's Pick of the Month 11 FOOD DUDE: Raspberry Tea Room 12 READiculous-ly Good Fun 14 January Events calendar 18 Freeze Your Butt Off camping Trip 28 Q&A: Chuck Beck 32 SPOT THE DIFFEREncE cHALLEnGE 35

04 | January 2015

CONGRATS TO OURDecember WINNER:

Paula Marley

Play the January Contest on p.35

December Answers:1. Window becomes one pane2. Painting becomes a Van Gogh3. Brown blanket gets longer4. Middle lamp base is inverted5. New pillow appears6. Headboard gets longer

B E H I N DTHRIVET H E

Cold weather doesn’t have to freeze out all of your action for the winter months. Au contraire, for some diehard Decatur-area campers it’s merely a challenge to be taken. The Freeze Your Butt Off Camping Trip falls every year during the frigid Super Bowl weekend. Snow, blizzard or freezing rain, they’re pitching tents, sparking fires and telling tales.

Of course there’s always something to be said for a good book, and a couple of Decaturites are making them even more interesting – READiculous-ly so. Bringing tall tales to life, Susan Bishop and Alissa Henkel are acting out fan favorites for kids.

When winter’s got you all twisted up, unwind with a little yoga. Release the stress. Harness your energy. Or in Chuck Beck’s case, Be Decatur!

If all else fails, tuck into some good old-fashioned comfort food. This month, Food Dude graciously took one for the team with a stop in at Raspberry Tea Room to review for you. We hear it was a real trial trying to make room for the pie after the croissant.

Let it snow,

January 2015 | 05

A look back at last month’s happeningsOut & About

Blazing HockeyThe Decatur Blaze, Midwest Junior Hockey League members, took on the Traverse City Hounds in a three-game series December 12-14. Catch them on ice through March: see decaturblaze.com for game schedule. All home games are played at the Decatur Civic Center.

06 | January 2015

A look back at last month’s happeningsOut & About

SantaconDecember 13 marked the 3rd annual SantaCon Decatur, a charitable pub crawl that kicked off at Doherty's Pub and Pins, moved to LSB and The Winery, ultimately ending at Lincoln Square Lounge. Participants donned their most festive Santa and elf outfits for a good cause! Proceeds from the event were donated to Leading the Way Foundation.

Local business and residents displayed holiday trees at Eagle Ridge of Decatur in December. Each tree was created with a theme, many highlighting healthcare.

A christmas carolMidSummer Moon Productions presented A Christmas Carol at Heartland Community Church's Grand Palace on December 12 and 13. The adaptation was a children's community theatre production.

Festival of Trees

January 2015 | 07

More than 250 singers and instrumentalists performed during Millikin University's 56th annual Vespers concert held at Kirkland Fine Arts Center. Songs ranged from traditional Christmas hymns to musical pieces written by Millikin faculty. The audiences during all four performances were also encouraged to sing along.

Art in Decatur took over many local venues last month. Holiday or winter-themed art was on display across town from the Decatur Airport to Rock Springs. Local talent makes the perfect gift!

Vespers

Art Freezes Over

The Dance Centre held two charity performances at the Masonic Temple on Saturday, December 13, to benefit the Salvation Army Angel Tree. Santa Claus made an appearance during the show and read Twas the Night Before Christmas to audience members.

Dance centre

2705 N Water, Decatur Illinois

To learn more about color consultations call: 217.876.0108

Purchase a $75 Sherwin-Williams gift card and get a Free in-home consultation!

January 24Hickory Point Banquet Facility

Ladies aged 5-12Dinner 5 - 6 • Dancing 6 - 9

RSVP: By Wednesday, Jan. 21

FATHERdaughter DANCE

For reservations, please call 422-5911decatur-parks.org • Find us on Facebook!

08 | January 2015

SPOTLIGHT08

Step inside The Fabric Cobbler’s storefront in Forsyth, and one thing is for certain—this isn’t your Grandma’s fabric store.

Hip, modern and trendy are all words that immediately come to mind when soaking in owner Scarlett Wells’ expansive inventory. With shelves of popular patterns and themes, including chevrons, quatrefoil, ombrés, it’s your Pinterest board come to life in fabric form.

Scarlett is certainly putting a new face on an old industry, whereas most quilt shops are still very traditional. She’s carving her niche with modern inventory and the sheer volume of material that she carries.

Recently moving from an etsy.com/out-of-her-home business, the shift to storefront, although daunting, has been successful for The Fabric Cobbler. Scarlett’s business is a good fit for anybody in the market for fabric, with her collection having something for just about every taste. She’s even working on her own original fabric designs, some of which are already featured in her inventory and sure to give you that one-of-a-kind result you’re looking for. And chenille, that baby-soft, warm and fuzzy feeling fabric that’s typically hard to find? Well, she has that, along with stretch lace, both popular items with her customers.

Besides her well-laid out and plentiful inventory, perhaps The Fabric Cobbler’s other secret weapon is her attentiveness to each individual customer.

“I had a great-grandma just in the store looking for fabric to make 16 pillowcases for her great-grandchildren. We spent two hours talking and getting to personally understand each person’s

interests,” she says. “Before she left, I felt like they were my family, and the result was a very personalized order that the customer loved.”

To Scarlett, there’s a special place for handmade sewn items. “They’re priceless, they’re unique and it’s a lost art,” she says. “Anything handmade is also higher quality and definitely made to last.”

Scarlett’s mother taught her to sew at a young age starting with quilting blocks and then moving to a machine by the time she was 6. Sewing is in her blood and now is her livelihood as she supports her family through her passion turned business endeavor. Sewing allowed her to become a stay-at-home-mom after the birth of her children, but with the popularity of Scarlett’s work and with the momentum-building power of Facebook, her “therapeutic pastime” has developed a life of its own, bringing us to her present-day storefront.

Just spending 10 minutes in The Fabric Cobbler will make you wish you spent more time in that 4-H sewing class, and her 12,000+ Facebook page fans would certainly agree. Sewing is cool again, and you can see for yourself at The Fabric Cobbler in Forsyth.

by Rachel Peabody

Rachel Peabody is a Freelance Writer.

Get There: The Fabric Cobbler324 E. Ruehl Street, Forsyth

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 10 am-5 pm, Wednesday: 10 am-6:30 pm

thefabriccobbler.com, 853-4629

Find them on Facebook & Etsy!

Not Your Grandma’s Fabric Store

January 2015 | 09

CRASH of the Month

facebook.com/groups/DecaturPartyCrashers

jccaulkins@aol.com

DecaturPARTY CRASHERS

1.9 -1.11

A Little Dinner Music: Up, Close, and Personal. Cash bar 6p, Dinner 6:30p, concert 7:30p. $23 (dinner, show), $10 (show only)

Scovill Golf Course3909 W Main St422.5911, www.decatur-parks.org6p (Fr & Sa), 12:30p (Su)

Winter Greater Decatur Chorale Concert

10 | January 2015

ART SPEAK10 by Jerry Johnson

Jerry Johnson is the Executive Director of the Decatur Area Arts Council and may be spotted pretty much anywhere art is happening.

Just about all of us have our “thing.” The thing that interests us, that we read about, devote our time to and spend our money on. Often it’s an activity where we work with our hands and produce something tangible like woodworking, knitting, painting, gardening, photography, beekeeping, video, robotics or cooking. We’re often called enthusiasts, hobbyists or even tinkerers.

If we’re lucky, we know people with the same passion, and there’s even a club or organization for us. Being part of a group with a common interest is the easiest way to learn a new or better way to do our “thing.” It also gives us chance to share our knowledge and creations with others.

But what if you’re looking for something new, or you’d like to share your “thing” with people who aren’t familiar with it? Well, mark your calendar for an exciting new community event coming in April 2015! The University of Illinois Extension Office is hosting Make•Explore•Share Day on Saturday, April 11, 2015, from 10 am-4 pm on the Richland Community College campus. It’s an event for people who tinker in the garage, want to get back to basics, want to see where technology can take us or just want to learn more about new ideas.

This gathering of fascinating, curious people is free for exhibitors ($1 for attendees). Exhibitors must be willing to demonstrate part of their craft during the event and have a handout or web link with instructions so that participants can replicate what they see. It’s all about sharing! If you’d rather keep your process and ideas top secret, then Make•Explore•Share Day may not be for you. In addition to demonstrating your craft, exhibitors are welcome to have items for sale on display.

For more information on Make•Explore•Share Day, call University of Illinois Extension at 877-6042 or e-mail maconcountyextension@illinois.edu.

If you think your “thing” might be in the arts, you have so many options to explore your creative side throughout the Decatur area. Here are just a few…

So, take a class, join an organization, plan to be a part of Make•Explore•Share Day or do all three. Whether you’re an enthusiast, hobbyist or tinkerer… whatever your “thing” is… it’s always more fun when you have the chance to learn from and share your enthusiasm with other creative people.

What's Your Thing?FIND YOUR THING

Decatur Area Arts Council offers arts classes for all ages or skill levels, including drawing, watercolor and mixed media, in addition to fun arts events.

The Barn Colony Artists invite everyone to join them at their weekly meetings in the Madden Arts Center to paint and learn.

Richland Community College has a wide variety of hands-on learning opportunities like digital photography, cooking and writing.

Theatre 7, Decatur’s community theatre, always needs folks to help with costumes, props and set construction and painting.

The Decatur Park District has terrific dance and drama programs, particularly for kids.

Heroic Age Arts Center in Mt. Zion houses a collection of artists who offer lots of classes and creative activities.

January 2015 | 11

Publisher'sPick of the Month

Alice in WonderlandBook Puzzle$15.99 novel Ideas Books - Gifts480 East Main Street, Decatur

Just a little something we ran across and wanted to share.

Backyard birds and various mountain ranges are always pretty. And then, there are the canals of Venice, or maybe a majestic castle from somewhere in Europe. They all make great puzzles.

This year, though, we're really kicking it up a notch! When the weather outside is frightful, we'll be sitting around the dining room table at my parents' house, putting this awesome work of art back together — piece by piece.

Oh, and did I mention it's a book? Well, the box looks like a book, which is cool. Also available were Snow White, Goldilocks, and Beauty and the Beast.

Photos: Kat Smalley

12 | January 2015

by T. F. DUDE

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

THE FOOD DUDE12

Whether comfort food is your thing or you just love good food, then Elwin’s Raspberry Tea Room is the place for you!

Soups, sandwiches and pie abound, and situated right next door is a cute little antique mall so you can walk off the undoubtedly full stomach you’re going to leave with.

The first thing you spy right by the door is a cooler filled with Grandma-worthy homemade pies to suit anyone’s palate. The perfect way to encourage saving room for dessert – that is, until you see the menu. Filled with homestyle favorites with a creative flair, you’ll have your pick, whatever your mood. I went for the Quiche of the Day, Spinach and Bacon, and boy was my mouth happy – pretty sure the quiche has the same crust as the pies! Light, airy and full of deliciousness and flavor.

My gal pal opted for a Raspberry Room signature, the chicken salad. A creamy delight loaded with walnuts, grapes and bacon, stuffed inside a flaky croissant. She had it served alongside the soup of the day, a hearty, flavorful cheesy vegetable and pasta recipe.

Of course dessert is top of mind at the Tea Room, and the choice was not an easy one, let me tell you. After much – and I mean much – deliberation, we committed to splitting two. First, the Sawdust, an oddly named yet heavenly blend of oatmeal, pecans and coconut that

tasted like pecan pie on steroids. Next, a delectable homemade pie with a chocolate brownie crust. Sure enough, we decided if someone made pudding out of hot chocolate, then filled the inside of a hollowed out brownie and set it on a bed of homemade caramel sauce, this would be it. To die for!

One thing’s for sure, you’ll leave with your mouth happy and your belly full – guaranteed!

Get There: Raspberry Tea Room5025 US 51 Business, Elwin

865-2916

We’re Sweet on Elwin’s Raspberry Tea Room

January 2015 | 13

HAVING TROUBLE applying for financial aid ? We can help!

TuesdaysJan 20, 27, Feb 3, 10 | 10:30am – Noon in W142Wednesdays Jan 21, 28, Feb 4, 11 | 3:00pm – 4:30pm in W142Thursdays Jan 22, 29, Feb 5, 12 | 5:00pm– 6:30pm in the Workforce Development InstituteFAFSA FrenzyFeb 7 | Noon – 2:00pmat Fairview Park Plaza Extension Center

FAFSA WORKSHOPSFree Application for Federal Student Aid

Please contact Financial Aid@richland.edu or call 875.7211 ext. 288 or 274

READiculous-ly Good Fun

14 | January 2015

Written by Beth DeBouck | Photos by Alida Duff Sullivan

READiculous-ly Good FunSome of us might remember Book It from our grade school days and how it encouraged children to read, to sign up for a library card, and certainly not as important, but I do recall that the reward for participation might have included a lot of family trips to Pizza Hut.

More recently, though, another local program has taken up the reins of getting children excited about reading by providing a much more interactive experience. Coordinated by two Decatur Public Library Children’s Department employees, READiculous offers students in Grades K-6 the opportunity to see live performances of some beloved children’s books, including Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss, Elephant and Piggie by Mo Willems and Once Upon a Cool Motorcycle Dude by Kevin O’Malley.

Since its first show in November 2011, READiculous has performed for over 16,000 readers and has been invited to perform at 46 grade school assemblies, 18 area library programs, eight public performances at the library and several other children and adult venues. And amazingly, it’s completely FREE!

Susan Bishop and Alissa Henkel, co-creators of READiculous, founded the program as a means to continue reaching out to Decatur students despite the library having lost its Extension Division due to budget cuts.

Alissa, who has a master’s degree in Library and Information Science and a background in literature and history, says it wasn’t until the last seven years that she even considered the idea of acting.

“I perform in the occasional skit at church,” says Alissa, “and I actually have a Theatre 7 play under my belt now. But if you had asked me 10 years ago if I would ever do something like this, I would have said no. Maybe – absolutely not.”

She gives props to her partner Susan for encouraging her to perform. “She supports me, and we have so much fun together,” says Alissa. “We trust each other to carry the show come rain or shine.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

January 2015 | 15

16 | January 2015

Not exactly an acting novice, Susan recalls taking drama with Mr. Waller at MacArthur High School and Lonn Pressnall at Richland Community College.

“I didn’t do much with theater work after that until I taught drama and improv for a home school cooperative for a couple of years while I was raising my kids,” says Susan. “I have also done some church drama with my husband, Doug. He has also been very involved with Theatre 7 since 1999, and I get to learn a lot from the people in that organization.”

Although they anticipate creating a fifth show after the beginning of the New Year, READiculous currently offers four unique shows, each of which lasts approximately 45 minutes and includes seven to 11 “books, stories, poems or chapters.” The selected stories, which often revolve around a theme, are acted out with the help of various props, audience participation and even live volunteers.

“The kids giggle and laugh, and the teachers and parents do, as well. It is so exciting to see our audience enjoying themselves. It makes us act even sillier,” says Alissa.

Certainly the shows are on the fun and silly side, but one fact remains: READiculous is having great success at drawing students to the library, sometimes even for the first time.

“We have had kids come in and get Elephant and Piggie books, or the You Read to Me, I Read to You books and act them out in the department like we do,” says Susan. “We keep statistics about how many kids and families come in as a result of seeing READiculous...We know if we can get them here once, them coming back is easy!”

While getting kids to visit the library is definitely part of the program’s goal, Alissa and Susan say they’ve both experienced other positive reactions after performing at schools.

“When we performed at Harris School,” says Alissa, “A blind girl talked to Susan afterwards

January 2015 | 17

and said it was the best show she had ever seen! We have also performed for deaf children with an interpreter. We noticed that the children never took their eyes off of us. I even got a marriage proposal at Macon Resources. Which reminds me, one of the residents there, the second time we performed, got up in the middle of Green Eggs and Ham and wanted to act it out with us!”

On December 30, READiculous performed its 100th show in the children’s department at the Decatur Public Library. Find other performance dates on the READiculous Facebook page, and if you sign up for the library’s monthly newsletter, you’ll receive alerts about upcoming programs.

Book ItIf you’re a part of a school or institution within the Decatur City limits, you can book READiculous or see more about them:

Email: ReallyREADiculous@live.com

Phone: 424-2900, ext. 141

www.facebook.com/ReallyREADiculous

www.youtube.com/userreallyREADiculous

www.decaturlibrary.org

EVERY MONDAYJujutsuAges 13+. $25-50, Decatur YMCA [220 W McKinley] 6:30-8p

Country Line DanceCome join in for a fun-filled evening, meet new people, and learn to country line dance. Great exercise. Knights of Columbus Hall [520 E North St, 764.3070] 7-9p

Miniatures MondayBoard Knight [228 W Main St, 706.5373, www.boardknight.com] 5:30-10p

MidState Indoor Little Kritters Soccer (thru1.26)In this 5-week program for players ages 3-4, a story book is provided that highlights animal characters who possess unique soccer skills. $42-50, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 5-5:30p

MidState Youth Indoor Soccer (thru1.26)Soccer players U6-U14 learn fundamentals and improve their soccer skills in these fun, instructional sessions. $51-60, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 5:30-8p

Adult Basketball Leagues (thru 3.24)Sign up for our intense, fast-paced basketball leagues! Teams play 10 games and an end-of-the-season tournament. Ages 16+. $435-455 (team), Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 6-10p

Intermediate Junior Golf (1.12-1.26)Juniors can take their swing to the next level with assistance from the Park District golf pros! Ages 10-13. $50-60, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 5:30-6:30p

EVERY MONDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SUNDAYPickleballOpen for all skill levels. $5 (non-member), Free (member), Decatur YMCA [220 W McKinley, www.facebook.com/DecaturPickleball] 1-3p (Mo), 7-9p (Th), 8-10a (Fr), 10a-12p (Su)

EVERY TUESDAY Board Game Gauntlet & Magic the GatheringHidden Lair [320 N State Hwy 121, Mt Zion] 5p (BGG), 6p (MTG)

Kung FuAges 10+. $25-50, Decatur YMCA [220 W McKinley] 7-8:30p

Adult Indoor Soccer Open Play (1.12-1.26)Enjoy casual matches during this friendly open play session. Ages 18+. No pre-registration is required. $6, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 9-10p

Stained Glass (1.20-3.17)The Glass House [2895 N Oakland, 875.7077] 6:30-9p

EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAYWrestling (begins1.20)Amateur wrestlers (ages 7-14) will learn basic fundamentals, rules, and skills necessary to gain the winning edge. Sessions are offered by experienced area wrestling coaches. $30-35, Mueller Park Frontier Building [745 E Riverside, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 5:30-6:30p

EVERY TUESDAY & WEDNESDAYJunior Golf (1.12-2.28)Pros offer youth ages 5-12 an introduction to golf, teaching hitting and putting fundamentals, golf rules and etiquette. $50-60, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 5:15-7p

January Events

EVERY WEDNESDAYD&D CasualBoard Knight [228 W Main St, 706.5373, www.boardknight.com] 5-9p

League Night & YuGiOhHidden Lair [320 N State Hwy 121, Mt Zion] 5p (Leagues), 6p (YuGiOh)

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

EVERY THURSDAY Tactical Thursdays & Open GamingHidden Lair [320 N State Hwy 121, Mt Zion] 5p (miniature gaming and painting), 7p (open gaming)

Preschool Golf (begins 1.8)Children ages 3-4 will learn the basic fundamentals of golf by focusing on coordination, simple techniques and motor skills. Adults also learn ways to help children practice and develop these skills. $37-42, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 5:15-6:45p

Warhammer & Yu-Gi-OhBoard Knight [228 W Main St, 706.5373, www.boardknight.com] 5:30-10p (Warhammer), 6-9p (Yu-Gi-Oh)

Karate (begins1.8)Ages 5+. $25-50, Decatur YMCA [220 W McKinley] 6:30-8p

Evening Storytime (1.8-1.31)Maroa Public Library [305 Garfield St, Maroa, 794.3005, www.maroa.lib.il.us] 7-8p

Storytime (begins1.8)Enjoy art activities, playtime, story time and snacks! Don't miss out on the fun! Ages 2-6. Maroa Public Library [305 Garfield St, Maroa, 794.3005, www.maroa.lib.il.us] 10-11a

Adult Co-ed Indoor Volleyball Leagues (1.15-3.19)Grab your friends and sign up. Teams play once a week with a schedule of 8 self-officiated games. $180 (team), Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 6-10p

EVERY FRIDAYMagic the GatheringHidden Lair [320 N State Hwy 121, Mt Zion] 5p

Friday Night MagicBoard Knight [228 W Main St, 706.5373, www.boardknight.com] 6:30-11p

EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAYWine TastingsThe Decanter Fine Wines [215 N Main St, 422.9463, www.thedecanterfinewines.com] 4-7p (Fr), 1-6p (Sa)

EVERY SATURDAY Pokémon & Dice MastersHidden Lair [320 N State Hwy 121, Mt Zion] 11a (Pokémon), 2p (Dice Masters)

Super Saturday RecessYouth ages 4-11 will enjoy an active morning with inflatables, scooters, basketball, tumbling, and more! Parent must be present. Need not be a member of the DISC to participate. $3.75, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 10a-12p

Baseball Instructional Clinic (1.17-1.31)Millikin University coaches and players assist participants ages 8-14 with throwing, hitting, catching, fielding and base running. Players are divided into age groups and use the batting cages and full gym. $45-54, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 1-2:30p

MidState Indoor Soccer Co-ed 3v3 League (1.17-1.31)Soccer players ages 7-14 can extend their season with MidState’s new co-ed 3v3 league. $54-64, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] TBD

EVERY SUNDAY YuGiOh & HeroClixHidden Lair [320 N State Hwy 121, Mt Zion] 2p (YuGiOh), 5p (HeroClix)

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

January 2015 | 19

January EventsD&D ExpeditionBoard Knight [228 W Main St, 706.5373, www.boardknight.com] 3-7p

Wednesday, December 31Happy Noon Year!Perfect for those who don't stay up late, the confetti will fly at our balloon drop at noon! Enjoy a dance party, fun photo booth and festive crafts! $1 (member), $6 (non-member), Free (under 2), Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club, www.cmofil.org] 10a-2p

2 Miles to Miles 5KThe race starts at the Y, winds through the neighborhood and in front of DMH and then on to Miles Nissan on an out-and-back course. 5k and 2k option. $18/23 (adv), $23/28 (day), Decatur Family YMCA [220 W McKinley] 2p

Kidd KadillacSliderz [5995 E Route 36] 5p

New Year's Eve PartyRibeye dinner (6-8p), Mike Lewis Band (9p-12a). $15, American Legion [1535 Legion Dr] 6p-12a

New Year's Eve PartyJoin us as we ring in the New Year. Ages 21+.$109-260, Decatur Conference Center & Hotel [4191 US 36 W, 422.8800, hoteldecatur.com] 6-7:30p (Dinner), 8-9:30p (Josh McVicar "The Trickster" Hypnotist), 9:45p-12:45a (Dueling Pianos)

Great Gatsby Casino Night Gala & FundraiserWhen the gin was cold and the piano was hot! Come ring in the New Year while stepping back in time to the 1920's! Ticket price includes casino, $50 of free chips, band, piano bar, all you can eat appetizer and dessert bar, cash bar, raffle and more! $60, Mt Zion Convention Center [1410 Mt Zion Parkway, Mt Zion, 864.5424] 6:30p

Pop's ConcertFree, Central Christian Church [650 W William St] 7:30p

Hipbone Sam$5 cover, DAV Club [1700 N Lake Shore Dr, hipbonesam.com] 9p-1a

X-KrushSliderz [5995 E Route 36] 9p

AnticsElmer's Ol'e Time Inn [3350 E William St] 9:30p-12:30a

Thursday, 1 MU Men's Basketballvs. University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. MU: Griswold Center [1184 W Main St, athletics.millikin.edu] 3p

Open GamingBored with nothing to do? Join us for an evening of board game fun! Board Knight [228 W Main, www.decaturgamers.com] 5:30p

Friday, 2Winter Break Day CampYouth ages 5-13. Olympics at the DISC. $32-37, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 6:30a-6p

1.2 -1.3Comedy HourMike Brody with Brent Trehune. $10 (adv), $12 (day), Main Hangar Restaurant [910 S Airport Rd, 421.7452, mainhangarrestaurant.net] 8:30p

1.2-2.28 Decatur Camera ClubEnjoy photographs of flowers, animals and scenic views of central Illinois. North Gallery. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 8a-5p (Mo-We, Fr), 8a-8p (Th), 9a-5p (Sa), 1-5p (Su)

Monday, 5Kids Archery ShootEnjoy archery in our indoor shooting range. Free (kids under 15), Archers Alley [3113 N 22nd St, 853.5961]

1.5-1.9Winter Break Day CampYouth ages 5-13. George's Skate Center (1.5), movie at the Strand (1.6), bowling (1.7), Children's Museum (1.8), Next of Kiln (1.9). $32-37, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 6:30a-6p

1.6-1.31 Young Artists Showcase 2015Exemplary juried art in varied media by area students in grades 5-8, presented by Gallery 510 Artists Guild, Ltd. Madden Arts Center [125 N Water, www.decaturarts.org] 8:30a-4:30p (Mo-Fr), 10a-2p (Sa)

Wednesday, 7 Book DiscussionWe get the books and you read them! Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, 672.3621, barclay.lib.il.us] 10:30a

Books Between BitesOn Immunity: An Inoculation by Eula Biss. Book reviews and book talks presented by various members of the community. Feel free to bring a sack lunch; coffee will be provided. Registration is not necessary. Free, Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin, www.friendsdpl.org] 12:15p-1p

MU Men's Basketballvs. North Central College. MU: Griswold Center [1184 W Main St, athletics.millikin.edu] 7p

Thursday, 8 Book DiscussionBeautiful Ruins by Jess Walter. Argenta Public Library [100 East Water, Argenta, www.aopld.lib.il.us] 1:30p

Book ClubThe Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman. Everyone welcome. Mt Zion District Library [115 W Main St, Mt Zion, 864.3622, www.mtzion.lib.il.us] 6:30-7:45p

Fabulous HoedadsFree, Elmer's Ol'e Time Inn [3350 E William St] 8-11p

Friday, 9 First FridayGallery 510: Hua Nian's paper tearing, pen & ink, abstracts. Madden Arts Center: Young Artists Showcase. Free, 5-7:30p

Family Night LiveTired of this cold weather? Bring the whole family for a fun beach night. We are turning up the heat, so wear your beach attire. We will also have sand, games, and snacks. Come and meet some new families! Antioch Christian Church [5409 E US Rt 36, 864.3444] 6-8p

1.9 -1.10Decatur Bridal ExpoDecatur Conference Center & Hotel [4191 US 36 W, decaturbridalexpo.com, hoteldecatur.com] 5-9p (Fr), 12-4p (Sa)

Julie Carter & Gil LeboisView fine art photography of the Midwest. South Gallery. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 8a-5p (Mo-We, Fr), 8a-8p (Th), 9a-5p (Sa), 1-5p (Su)

Saturday, 3DISC Open HouseDecatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 9a-12p

Dulcimer ClubBring your instrument, learn a new tune or simply enjoy the musical talents of our volunteers. Open to the public. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 10a-12p

Making Tracks: Who's WhoWinter snows provide a great way to discover who’s been walking through your yard. Wildlife leave evidence behind in the form of tracks and other clues. Help track them and discover who’s who. Each family receives a track book. Refreshments served. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 10a-12p

Dixie DaredevilsLock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 3:30p

Jesse & the Hogg BrothersPrairieland A.B.A.T.E. [1901 N Railroad Ave] 9:30p

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

January 2015 | 21

1.9 -1.11Winter Greater Decatur Chorale ConcertA Little Dinner Music: Up, Close, and Personal. Cash bar 6p, Dinner 6:30p, concert 7:30p. $23 (dinner, show), $10 (show only), Scovill Golf Course [3909 W Main St, 422.5911, www.decatur-parks.org] 6p (Fr & Sa), 12:30p (Su)

1.9-1.11 & 1.16-1.18 The Hallelujah GirlsA feisty group of women decide to shake up their lives at the Spa-Dee-Dah!, an abandoned church-turned day spa, where they gather every Friday afternoon to talk about how they’re going to change their lives and achieve their dreams. RCC: Shilling Center [One College Park, theatre7.net] 7:30p (Fr & Sa), 2p(Su)

Saturday, 10 Animal Crackers: Deserts are HotChildren ages 3-5 listen to a story, meet an animal, create a craft with their adult guest(s) and snack on animal crackers! $9-10, Scovill Zoo [71 S Country Club Rd, 421.7435, www.decatur-parks.org] 9:30-10:15a & 11-11:45a

Book DiscussionWe get the books and you read them! Barclay Public Library [220 S Main St, Warrensburg, 672.3621, barclay.lib.il.us] 11a

A Living Symbol: The American Bald EagleLearn about our national symbol, the bald eagle, and its incredible attributes. View a live bald eagle, closer than you ever could in the wild. Register online by 1.2. $5 (person), $20 (family), Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 2-3:30p

Kids Club - The Wonderful World of DisneyDoodles the Dragon, Granny Giggles and the Gary Strong Marionette Show. Concessions, live entertainment, old time movies, classic cartoons and prizes. Includes Disney games, music, and a big screen classic cartoon festival. $4 (adult), $1 (child), Fletcher Park: Recreation Center [400 S Henderson St, Mt Zion, 864.5424] 2p

DiversityLock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 3:30p

MU Women's Basketballvs. Elmhurst College. MU: Griswold Center [1184 W Main St, athletics.millikin.edu] 5p

KaraokeDJ Jeff spins your favorite songs to join in and sing! American Legion 105 [1535 Legion Dr, 423.1411] 7-11p

MU Men's Basketballvs. Elmhurst College. MU: Griswold Center [1184 W Main St, athletics.millikin.edu] 7p

Hot Bag O' DoughnutsLock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 8-11p

The Pearl Handle BandBottoms Up [4380 W Main St] 9p-1a

Sunday, 11 Blue Grass Music JamsBring your instrument, learn a new tune or simply enjoy the musical talents of our volunteers. Open to the public. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 1-4p

January Events

Wednesday, 14 MU Women's Basketballvs. Illinois Wesleyan. MU: Griswold Center [1184 W Main St, athletics.millikin.edu] 7p

1.14-1.15Weather or Not: SnowIt's time to discover the weather! We will use our senses to investigate the ins and outs of snow. Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 9:30-10:30a (Tu, Ages 1-5), 1-2p (We, Ages 3-5)

Thursday, 15 Book ClubThe Hurricane Sisters by Dorothea B Frank. Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin] 1p

The Greater Prairie Chicken in Illinois: A Story of Persistence and RarityLearn about the history and beauty of this wildlife species and the peril it faces today. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 7-8p

1.16 -1.17Midwest Show Choir Invitational$8-20, Mt Zion High School [455 Elm St, Mt Zion, www.swingsations.com]

Comedy HourMatt Holt with Stefan Davis. $10 (adv), $12 (day), Main Hangar Restaurant [910 S Airport Rd, 421.7452, mainhangarrestaurant.net] 8:30p

Saturday, 17 Cross Country Ski WorkshopLearn the basics of cross country skiing. This activity is a great way to observe wildlife and explore the outdoors. At least 4" of snow required. $12 (person), Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 10a

Dulcimer ClubBring your instrument, learn a new tune or simply enjoy the musical talents of our volunteers. Open to the public. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 10a-12p

Central Illinois Chili and Salsa Cook-OffHickory Point Mall [1146 Hickory Point Mall Dr, Forsyth, 620.8012] 10:30a-4:45p

14th Annual Barstool OpenFour courses from AIW Hall; 4 courses from KC Hall. Pre- and post-party available at both locations. Ages 21+ to play. $140 (team), Knights of Columbus Hall & AIW Hall [www.ucpll.org] 11a

AnticsFree, Elmer's Ol'e Time Inn [3350 E William St] 8-11p

Family Science Sunday: FrozenJoin Richland Community College professors for a free workshop creating science crafts based on the movie Frozen! Free (with admission), Children's Museum of Illinois [55 S Country Club Rd, 423.5437, www.cmofil.org] 2-4p

Hurricane RuthPop's Place [4335 W Main St] 3-6p

Monday, 12 Winter Break Day CampYouth ages 5-13. $32-37, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 6:30a-6p

Tuesday, 13 American Girl ClubJoin us as we learn about history and culture by using the American Girl stories. Each meeting includes activities or crafts that bring history to life. Ages 7-6th grade. Mt Zion District Library [115 W Main St, Mt Zion, 864.3622, www.mtzion.lib.il.us] 4:30p

Open GamingBored with nothing to do? Join us for an evening of board game fun! Diamonds Restaurant [2959 N Oakland, www.decaturgamers.com] 5:30p

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

January 2015 | 23

Sunday, 18 Blues DeaconsPop's Place [4335 W Main St] 3-6p

Couples/Singles DanceBand: Kevin Turner Trio (from Springfield). $10, Knights of Columbus Hall [520 E North St, 875.3090, www.dancingdates.com] 5-8p

Collegiate Chorale Tour FinaleFree, Central Christian Church [650 W William St, 424.4336, www.millikin.edu] 7:30p

Monday, 19 School's Out Day CampAges 5-13. Indoor pool party. $32-37, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 6:30a-6p

Cheer CampShow your spirit! Enhance your cheer and stunt skills during this fun, one-day camp led by Millikin University's Cheerleading Squad. Show off your new cheers at one of Millikin's men's home basketball games. $36-43, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 10a-3p

Kids Archery ShootEnjoy archery in our indoor shooting range. Free (kids under 15), Archers Alley [3113 N 22nd St, 853.5961]

Wednesday, 21 MU Men's Basketballvs. Wheaton College. MU: Griswold Center [1184 W Main St, athletics.millikin.edu] 7p

Friday, 23 MU Men's Swimmingvs. Illinois Wesleyan University. MU: Griswold Center [1184 W Main St, athletics.millikin.edu] 6p

MU Women's Swimmingvs. Illinois Wesleyan University. MU: Griswold Center [1184 W Main St, athletics.millikin.edu] 6p

Night at the Nature CenterVisit the EcoCenter at night. This unique opportunity comes around very rarely! We will play games, hear stories, and make crafts. Snacks provided. Be prepared to go outside. Ages 6-12. $15 (person), Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 7-10p

Fireside RelicsLock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 8-11p

Saturday, 24 Friends of Argenta BreakfastDonation, Old Grade School [275 N Kenwood St, Argenta] 7:30-10a

Beer Brewing 101Think craft brewing is reserved for professionals? Think again. With a few simple ingredients and microbiology basics you can be well on your way to enjoying your own homebrew in as little as a month. $5, University of Illinois Extension Macon County [3351 N President Howard Brown Blvd, 877.6042, web.extension.illinois.edu] 9-11:30a

Snowman Building CompetitionBuild your most creative snowman! Join us on the West Lawn to build and judge. Hot cocoa provided! Snow is a prerequisite. Dress for being outside for the fun. Register online. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 2p

Decatur Big BandLock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 3:30p

Father/Daughter DanceThe perfect special occasion for young ladies ages 5-12 and their dads. $25, Hickory Point Golf Course [727 W Weaver Rd, 422.5911, www.decatur-parks.org] 5-6p (dinner), 6-9p (dance)

January Events

MU Women's Basketballvs. Augustana College. MU: Griswold Center [1184 W Main St, athletics.millikin.edu] 5p

KaraokeDJ Jeff spins your favorite songs to join in and sing! American Legion 105 [1535 Legion Dr, 423.1411] 7-11p

MU Men's Basketballvs. Augustana College. MU: Griswold Center [1184 W Main St, athletics.millikin.edu] 7p

360 BandFree, Elmer's Ol'e Time Inn [3350 E William St] 8-11p

Coming Out FightingLock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 8-11p

Sunday, 25 Unnatural Trail HikeTest your observation skills along a trail. Do you see what doesn’t belong? Don’t give away the answers by pointing! We’ll guide you through at the end to see if you found everything! Register online by 1.23. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 2p

HarperPop's Place [4335 W Main St] 3-6p

Christian Classics Lecture SeriesThe Man Who Was Thursday by G. K. Chesterton. Free, Westminster Presbyterian Chuch [1360 W Main St, 428.6603] 6:30-8p

University Choir Tour FinaleFree, St Patrick Catholic Church [407 E Eldorado St, 424.4336, www.millikin.edu] 7:30p

Monday, 26 Preschool Activity: Young ArtistInspire your child's imagination and self-expression with a world of hands-on art activities. Children ages 18 mo-4 yrs, accompanied by their caregiver, will create masterpieces through painting, sculptures, and drawing. $30-35, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 11:15a-12p

1.26-1.27Youth TumblingAge-appropriate instruction for youth in grades Pre-K to 6th. Beginners focus on flexibility and coordination, while intermediate tumblers enhance their skills. $32-38, Decatur Indoor Sports Center (DISC) [1295 W Wood St, 429.3472, www.decatur-parks.org] 4:30-6:30p

Tuesday, 27 Non-Fiction Book ClubSpectrums by David Blatner. Decatur Public Library [130 N Franklin] 1p

Sky's the LimitA powerful way to engage kids that is fun and fulfilling. The activities in this program involve experiments, investigation, discussion, and reflection while centering around STEM learning. Ages 7-6th grade. Mt Zion District Library [115 W Main St, Mt Zion, 864.3622, www.mtzion.lib.il.us] 4:30p

Open GamingBored with nothing to do? Join us for an evening of board game fun! Mancino's Pizza & Grinders [2805 N Main, www.decaturgamers.com] 5:30p

Garden-Fresh Vegetable Garden PlanningFew things taste better than garden-fresh vegetables. Find out how to keep those fresh vegetables coming throughout the growing season. Learn how to plan and plant to get the most out of your vegetable garden no matter what size it is! Free, University of Illinois Extension Macon County [3351 N President Howard Brown Blvd, 877.6042, web.extension.illinois.edu] 6-8p

Wednesday, 28 MU Women's Basketballvs. North Central College. MU: Griswold Center [1184 W Main St, athletics.millikin.edu] 7p

Thursday, 29 Fabulous HoedadsFree, Elmer's Ol'e Time Inn [3350 E William St] 8-11p

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

January 2015 | 25

Friday, 30 JukehouseLock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 8-11p

Plan BFree, Elmer's Ol'e Time Inn [3350 E William St] 8-11p

1.30-1.31 Comedy HourSteve Iott with Jeff Arcuri. $10 (adv), $12 (day), Main Hangar Restaurant [910 S Airport Rd, 421.7452, mainhangarrestaurant.net] 8:30p

1.30 -2.1Central Illinois Jazz FestivalFriday: get acquainted party, gala New Orleans style umbrella parade, small combo dance sets led by Bob Draga & Dave Tatrow. Saturday: ragtime pianorama, banjorama, sit down dinner & dinner show (“Le Jazz Hot” by Anderson Quintet) & late night jam session (all musicians welcome). Sunday: jazz, gospel service (Marilyn Keller w/Rivermen), jazz brunch w/several bands & clarinet clambake (multiple venues under one roof ). $20 (Sunday Brunch), $30 (Sunday), $35

(Friday & Saturday-per session), $65 (Saturday dinner/show & events on Saturday), $165 (patron package), Decatur Conference Center & Hotel [4191 US Hwy 36 W, 454.2709, www.juvaejazz.com] 4p-12a (Fr), 10a-2a (Sa), 10a-5p (Su)

Saturday, 31 Dulcimer ClubBring your instrument, learn a new tune or simply enjoy the musical talents of our volunteers. Open to the public. Free, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, 423.7708, maconcountyconservation.org] 10a-12p

Saturday Scrappin Scrapbooking CropBring your scrapbooking stuff, your lunch and dinner. We will provide snacks and drinks. Each person will have their own table. $20, Fletcher Park: Recreation Center [400 S Henderson St, Mt Zion, 864.5424] 10a-10p

MU Men's Swimmingvs. Knox College. MU: Griswold Center [1184 W Main St, athletics.millikin.edu] 1p

MU Women's Swimmingvs. Knox College. MU: Griswold Center [1184 W Main St, athletics.millikin.edu] 1p

Snake & Turtle ShowLearn about these fascinating reptiles at Rock Springs Nature Center. We will discuss what makes them special and important in nature. We will then look at and touch some live animals. Register online. All ages welcome. $2, Rock Springs Nature Center [3939 Nearing Ln, maconcountyconservation.org] 1p-2:30p

Kevin Hart & the VibeLock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 3:30p

MDSO: Young Artists ConcertEnescu's TORRID "Romanian Rhapsody" caps off an evening featuring Millikin student soloists in concertos and arias to be announced. $13-16.50, Kirkland Fine Arts Center [1184 W Main St, 424.6318, www.millikin.edu/kirkland] 7:30p

West End Boogie ProjectFree, Elmer's Ol'e Time Inn [3350 E William St] 8-11p

Westcott, Dennison & CoLock Stock & Barrel [129 S Oakland] 8p-12a

January Events

26 | January 2015

Search ALL Macon County entertainment, and find just what you're looking for!

Your guide to events in Macon County, Illinoiswww.ThriveDecatur.com

Thrive Online at www.ThriveDecatur.com

Freeze Your Butt Off Camping Trip By Joli A. Hohenstein

28 | January 2015

CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

When the mercury dips so far you can’t see it on the thermometer, and everyone but the polar bears is hunkered down under five yards of down, you might think the only fun is some Yahtzee and hot tea (possibly spiked) by the fire. But you’d be wrong – and you’d be missing the eighth annual Freeze Your Butt Off camping trip.

That’s right, camping, like in tents, on the ground, in the snow. True? Yes. Crazy? Maybe. Started by the Decatur-area Corn Desert Hiking and Adventure Group, Freeze Your Butt Off probably started as a challenge, says co-organizer Bonnie Wyatt. And believe it or not, it’s grown from there. “It was, ‘hey we’ve all gotten pretty good at camping in the spring and summer and even fall, but what about winter?’” she says. The event typically draws around 15 people, and Bonnie says more would like to come (provided there’s room around the fire).

The trip typically involves a hike – they always hope for snow to make it more interesting – a lot of food (preferably of the junk food variety), good times, tall tales and great friends. “We eat, sit around the campfire, tell stories and reminisce over past meetups,” Bonnie explains. The group’s primary rendezvous method for hikes and campouts is meetup.com (the gathering site, not the dating site). There, adult hikers and outdoor enthusiasts congregate over shared interests and love of the outdoors.

After all, you’d better be on Mother Nature’s good side if you’re intending to spend the night in a tent in a potential snowstorm. “Part of the fun is that it IS sort of crazy,” says Bonnie. “There aren’t a lot of people who do it, so you’ve earned that ‘I survived a night in 16 degree weather’ claim.”

A core group of camping lovers typically carries the campout, with others joining as schedules and weather permit because not just anyone is fit to brave winter nights outdoors. “It’s all about the right clothing and the right gear and knowing how to use them,” she says.

January 2015 | 29

30 | January 2015

Interested in the Freeze Your Butt Off camping trip (this year January 31) or perhaps just some winter hiking? Check out the Corn Desert Hiking and Adventure Group at www.meetup.com/hiking-326.

T i p s to Not Freeze Your Butt OffDon’t wear cotton – it absorbs sweat, stays against your skin, and you stay cold.

Stay hydrated – that’s a big key to keeping warm.

Get the right sleeping bag – check the temperature rating.

Lay down a base – you lose more body heat to the ground than the air.

Keep your tent cozy – smaller tents stay warmer and hold in body heat better.

They’re good about working with new people and helping them know what they need for campouts, and this trip is no different. After all, hypothermia is very real and not something to kid about.

Unless you’re one of their veteran campers, who one year took the ultimate challenge during Freeze Your Butt Off – and slept all night outside by the fire wrapped in a buffalo skin. The only thing that woke him? Snowflakes hitting his face, but he recovered and dozed back off.

Through the years, they’ve seen it all on the frigid foray, from 7 inches of snow to temperatures in the teens to Park Rangers questioning their sanity, but they still keep coming back for more. The one concession they’ve made? Choosing a campground with a shower house and a flush toilet that stays open year-round.

It’s a challenge for a hardy few but an experience that gets in the blood. “It’s such an enjoyment seeing snow on the tents and fresh snow in the campground when you come out of your tent in the morning,” says Bonnie. “There’s nothing like it.”

January 2015 | 31

32 | January 2015

WHY BE DECATUR? (IE WHY DECATUR FOR YOUR BUSINESS?) Downtown Decatur is thriving. The cost of living is low, space is available and thoughts are free. A yoga and meditation studio is something I expect to find when I travel, and I want to find a good studio in our city.

CUSTOMERS' FAVORITE THING ABOUT BE YOGA DECATUR? Windows. Wonderful light, and looking out to see Decatur as a handsome city.

FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SUNDAY IN DECATUR? Walking under the trees in Fairview Park with my dogs. Sunday is my favorite day to deliberately avoid the path.

MOST UNExPECTED THING TO DO IN DECATUR?Drive around looking at storied buildings and imagine the Decatur without the voice of a narrator. What can we learn by noticing architectural details and neighborhood layout?

FAVORITE HEAlTHY SNACk IN DECATUR? The granola and fruit from the Blue Spoon. You feel light and substantially satisfied from it.

THING THAT SURPRISES PEOPlE ABOUT YOGA? People are surprised at how challenging moving slowly and intentionally can be. You will find all kinds of muscles from moving, stretching and especially breathing practices.

FAVORITE MOVE TO RElIEVE STRESS? Legs up the wall pose relieves stress in a short time. Set an alarm for 6 minutes and sit against a wall sideways, lean your arm against the floor and scoot your feet up the wall as you roll onto your back. Close your eyes and pay attention to what is immediately apparent. Give it time to subside. The alarm will ring when it is time.

FAVORITE DECATUR THING TO DO IN WINTER? Yoga practice and building furniture are my favorite winter activities. I have been focusing on a couple deep or challenging poses each winter and changing my body to learn their lessons. Designing and building things out of trees helps me create content from the substance of my meditation.

THRIVE Q&A32With a name like Be Yoga Decatur, our interest was piqued! We sat down with owner Chuck Beck to see why Decatur and learn a little about what makes him tick.

CHUCk BECk

Photo: Gil Lebois

January 2015 | 33

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