in this issue: April-May 2017

features Building BlocksWhat would it take to re-build and rejuvenate Decatur’s blighted neighborhoods? The City of Decatur’s revitalization plan, slated to roll out later this spring, proposes incentives for developers and residents. Cover Illustration by Tronnie Goss Happy EndingsNo matter how the story starts, adopting a “best friend” from a breed-specific rescue league or local […]
Blues in Central Park Ending

Decatur, Illinois, February 8, 2017 – Decatur Magazine publisher Beth Stringer announced today that the Blues in Central Park concert series will not return this summer. “We’ve had a great run over the past 16 years and have thoroughly enjoyed bringing talented blues musicians to the Central Park stage in downtown Decatur,” said Stringer. “After […]
Party Pix – UCP Miller Lite Barstool Open

UCP Miller Lite Barstool Open – January 14 Recognized as the largest Barstool Open in the country, Decatur’s event is still growing and anticipates raising $100,000 for necessary programs and services. Over 2200 golfers and 51 bars participated this year, with 4-man teams testing their putting skills on elaborate holes created at each location. Creative […]
Here & There – Lincoln Nebraska

Lincoln, Nebraska Located 475 miles northwest of Decatur, Lincoln is the capitol of Nebraska and county seat of Lancaster County and home to the Cornhuskers of the University of Nebraska. Government and education are the largest employers followed by the health and service industries, including a growing high-tech sector. The region makes up part of what […]
Calendar – February / March 2017

February / March 2017 Art Concerts & Live Music Comedy & TheatreHistory & Museums Nature & Gardens Events for Children & Families Sports, Health & Fitness Festivals & Expositions Special Events Charity Datebook ART Peace, Love, Posters – through February 24 Millikin University, Kirkland Fine Arts Center, Perkinson Gallery, 1184 W. Main St. Exhibition viewing M-F 12-5pm […]
in this issue: February-March 2017

features Retail MattersBefore re-locating to Tinley Park, Illinois, former economic development officer Patrick Hoban reflected on Decatur’s progress, as well as the urgent challenge to fill gaps left by retailers exiting for “greener pastures.” Cover Illustration by Tronnie Goss Barber’s ChairHaircuts and hot lather straight razor shaves are making a comeback in Decatur, as more […]
Here & There – North Pole, Alaska

North Pole, Alaska “Where the spirit of Christmas lives year-round.” North Pole, Alaska, is a scenic small town of approximately 2,000 people that serves as the commercial hub of the “Greater North Pole” area of over 30,000 residents. With the magic of Christmas in its name and the great Alaskan outdoors for its backyard, North […]
Calendar – December / January 2017

December / January 2017 Christmas in Downtown DecaturHoliday Events Art Concerts & Live Music Comedy & Theatre Nature & Gardens Events for Children & Families Sports, Health & Fitness Festivals & Expositions Special Events Christmas in Downtown Decatur Christmas Kick-Off – November 19Downtown Decatur. An entire day of festive events to kick-off the holiday season in […]
in this issue: December-January 2017

features Hometown Salute Our celebrations are as unique as our city, so join us as we explore the festive ways residents herald the holidays in Decatur. Season’s Greetings! Cover Illustration by Tronnie Goss Red Kettle RingersThere are many reasons volunteers sign up for a shift during the holidays, but the local Guns ‘N Hoses competition […]
Here & There – Monticello, IL
Monticello, IL The county seat of Piatt County, Monticello has a population of 5516. The majority of Monticello’s residents work in the neighboring cities of Decatur or Champaign, both 20 miles in either direction on I-72. Over 60% of the city’s residents commute to other cities for work every day. Proud to put a positive […]