in this issue: December-January 2016
features
ON THE COVER – Cool Yule –
In this issue, you’ll find out how to bring a laid back vibe to the holidays with smooth tunes, hip ideas for a party and even groovy tips for cold weather cooking on the grill. Keep it real for an unforgettable holiday season with family and friends this year. Can you dig it?
Top Ten Tunes
Contributor Randall Reyman’s poll of favorite holiday music ranges from jazz to classical to rock, with songs you can groove to all season long. Download, hit “play” and enjoy…
Party On!
Faced with changes in the local party scene, Decaturites are getting creative and finding fun ways to ring in the New Year — even if that means just hanging out at home.
Brews on Tap
The wait is almost over! Opening soon at the corner of Main and Main, Decatur’s newest craft brewery will feature 24 taps and one of the widest selections of drafts in town.
Grillin’ & Chillin’ Out
Even during the winter, everything still tastes better from the grill. Contributor Glenn Tiede shares nifty cold weather tips and techniques for maximum flavor with minimum effort.
American Pie
Illinois’ official state pie is pumpkin, and Decatur does it proud. Intrepid sampler French MacLean discovered local bakers who create delicious desserts from this humble gourd.
columns
business
For This We Give Thanks
Meet John Wasem. Since 1953, over 33,000 people have tried, but he still holds the record that no one in Decatur will ever be able to beat.
Santa’s List
Local merchants have been busy little elves, stocking their shelves with unique gifts to please everyone on your list.
arts & entertainment
North Pole Express
All aboard! Hosted by Decatur IL Moms, this popular holiday movie event gets bigger every year, complete with an enchanting tunnel, hot chocolate and even Santa himself.
30 Christmas in the City
Stroll through the streets of downtown the night of December 2, and enjoy the sights, sounds and seasonal treats that make Decatur’s Christmas Walk a cherished annual tradition.
travel & leisure
At Home on the Gulf Coast
Flocking to the familiar is a welcome connection for many of Decatur’s snowbirds, as they discover their favorite places down south remind them of home.
Happy Trails
When cabin fever hits with a vengeance, there’s a cure right around the corner. Decatur’s nature trails offer a ready-made retreat that’s sure to make you feel better.
home
Tastes of Home
When kids of all ages come home for the holidays, many head straight for Decatur flavors they’ve left but never forgotten. Find out what keeps them coming back for more.
Mantle Masterpieces
This season, make your fire even more delightful by dressing up the mantle in holiday finery. Local decorators say anything goes — from sweeping swags to mixed metals.
departments
CONTRIBUTORS*
HERE & THERE*
PARTY PIX
CALENDAR OF EVENTS*
HOLIDAY DATEBOOK*
DINING OUT*
REFLECTIONS
*Available Online