in this issue: April-May 2016
features
ON THE COVER – Signs of Life
Spring is busting out all over Decatur with new projects, innovative connections and enthusiastic residents who believe our city is on the upswing and their own efforts can speed up the trend.
Wishes Granted
Ask and you shall receive. Since we last polled Decatur Magazine readers on their recommendations for new businesses, eight out of the Top 10 most requested have set up shop here. Find out what’s next.
Young and Motivated
Created to help retain employees in Decatur, members of the ADM Young Professionals Group are establishing valuable local connections. Their successful model is catching on among other area employers, too.
A Little Kiss
Local restaurant veteran Karen Hawkins adds a touch of Southern influence as the new owner of Bizou, starting with fresh décor and a revamped menu. Contributor French MacLean checks out the changes.
Weekend Wine Tour
Shake off the winter doldrums along Central Illinois’ newest wine trail — a trek that connects a trio of unique family-owned wineries just down the road from Decatur. Discover charming places to stay the night, too!
Six Simple Gardens
Decaturites love to grow things. Local experts offer a half-dozen ways to dig in the dirt, with ideas ranging from raised vegetable beds to whimsical fairy pots.
columns
business
Blogosphere
If they think it, they blog it. Just about anything goes among local bloggers, whose creative self-expressions link them to each other and to growing numbers of followers.
History Comes Home
Decatur’s proud historical community welcomes a newcomer in April, when the mansion bought by A.E. Staley in 1912 opens as the Staley Museum — a tribute to one family’s global impact.
arts & entertainment
Sounds of Music
Even though digital downloads are the most popular, LPs are making a comeback with Millennials and compact discs offer superior technology. Find out which medium offers the best listening quality.
It’s All Greek
“We bring you into our world — you can be Greek for the night,” says “Stars Over Athens” organizer Amy Chiligiris. This popular Greek festival celebrates its 55th anniversary in May.
travel & leisure
Hitting the Road
Our contributors share their favorite spring road trip destinations — parks, beaches, cities and festivals that draw them back year after year.
Back on the Bike
The return of warm weather is the perfect time to re-charge your pedal power, and Decatur’s range of beginner-friendly trails makes the ride worthwhile.
home & garden
Open Air Living
Local experts offer creative ways to turn the great outdoors into a living room, dining room, social spot or sanctuary. The sky’s the limit, so breathe easy…
Nature’s Delicacy
A welcome sign of spring, freshly picked asparagus spears are a nutritious treat. Contributor Pam Smith shares tips for savoring this vegetable’s short, sweet season.
departments
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