February 2018 Community Calendar (2024)

If you would like your event considered for the Calendar, please email your request as early as possible to Events@wics.com. Please include the following details within the body of the email, not as an attachment.

• event date
• event time
• event location (street address and city)
• event cost (if applicable) and who benefits from the fees/donations
• a brief description
• public contact information if our community has further questions (phone number, website, email address, Facebook page)

Tip: How to search this calendar of events: Use 'Ctrl + F' and type a key word or date (i.e. "fireworks" or "July 4") into the search box. This function should find and highlight corresponding events in your browser.

February 1
African-American History Month Kickoff (12:00 - 1:30pm; A. Lincoln Commons., LLCC, SPRINGFIELD) featuring LLCC alum Kenneth Humble with the Kenny Humble Trio.
Lincoln Land Community College is celebrating African-American History Month during February with various events. The theme for this year’s observance is “Celebrating Our Strengths While Overcoming Our Challenges.”

Now through March 2
OSCARS at the Library (555 Buckeye Rd., PLEASANT PLAINS or 125 W. Editor, ASHLAND) Starting Jan. 29 visit either location, Ashland or Pleasant Plains, for a chance to win movie tickets! Fill out a ballot of your Oscar picks in each category. Ballots are available at each location. The person who picks the most winners will receive movie tickets to a nearby theater. There will be one winner at each location. One Ballot per person; in case of a tie, we will draw the winning name. Winners will be announced on March 6. For more information on the movies nominated, go to http://oscar.go.com/nominees

Now through March 8
“Animal Architecture/Landscape Empathy: LaDawna Whiteside” (MthruF 8:00am - 4:00pm; James S. Murray Gallery, upper level of Menard Hall on the LLCC campus, 5250 Shepherd Road, SPRINGFIELD) LaDawna Whiteside’s projects are based in abstraction. Pursuing an alternative sublime, Whiteside chronicles this place and time, focusing on landscape topography and animal architecture. Line by line, she considers space and layers within a ritual in making marks. Her drawings reflect the transformation from individual fibers into cloth. Read more about Whiteside, LLCC’s James S. Murray Gallery and its exhibits at www.llcc.edu/james-s-murray-gallery.

NOW THROUGH MARCH 31
Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest (Veterans of Foreign Wars Post, 2349 Stockyard Rd., SPRINGFIELD) The Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest is open to students in grades 9 thru 12, public, private, parochial or home schooled. And a U.S. citizen or U.S. national. It is a national scholarship contest sponsored by Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary. For full contest and eligibility rules go to vfwauxiliary.org/scholarships
Deadline is March 31, 2018 | 217-789-4725

January 29 - March 26
Cancer Companions: Bringing Hope to the Journey (6:30 - 8:00pm; Our Savior’s Lutheran Church & School, Meeting Room 2, 2645 Old Jacksonville Rd., SPRINGFIELD) www.oursaviors-church.org and register online. A ministry to current or former cancer patients, their loved ones, friends, and co-workers - Cancer Companions is beginning a 9 week session on Monday, January 29, beginning at 6:30 pm, at Our Savior's Lutheran Church. This unique Christian group is open to the public and to all denominations and examines many of the tough issues Christians dealing with cancer face. For more information or to register, please contact Kim Meyer, RN, PN, CLLM by calling 217-546-4531. kimmeyerrn@hotmail.com

February 1
Artist Reception: “A Fire Within: New Work by Michelle Coakes” (4:00 - 6:00pm; LLCC, SPRINGFIELD) The James S. Murray Gallery at Lincoln Land Community College will feature the exhibit “A Fire Within: New Work by Michelle Coakes” Jan. 16-Feb. 1. The public is invited to view the exhibit weekdays from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. and attend a closing reception with the artist on Feb. 1 from 4-6 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.
Coakes is professor of art and the ceramics expert at LLCC, having taught and managed the college ceramics lab since 2002. She has created ceramic pieces for more than 40 years and taught at schools throughout the country including the University of Louisville, Western Kentucky University, Juniata College (Penn.) and two other community colleges in Illinois. In 2013, she founded Bad Wolf Pottery, a pottery shop and studio producing handmade, functional pottery and sculptural clay objects. She is the author of the book “Creative Pottery: A Step by Step Guide and Showcase” and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts, Master of Arts and Master of Fine Arts from Northern Illinois University.
Coakes is best known for her functional and quasi-functional vessels in stoneware, most of which are finished in a wood-fired kiln. Almost all of her work is wheel-thrown and manipulated. The rich, variable wood-fired surfaces add greatly to the illusion and references she sets up between old and new. "A Fire Within" is the culmination of a project started in the summer of 2017, when she and others constructed a wood-firing kiln on her property north of Taylorville.
Read more about Professor Coakes, LLCC’s James S. Murray Gallery and its exhibits at www.llcc.edu/james-s-murray-gallery.

February 1
Preschool Open House (6:00 - 7:00pm; Our Savior’s School, 2645 Old Jacksonville Rd., SPRINGFIELD) We invite you to learn more about our Preschool through 8th grade education during Our Savior’s Open Houses. See how Our Savior’s children receive the Three Daily Essentials: living Christ-Centered lives, building Timeless Relationships, and learning in a Culture of Excellence. Our Savior’s prepares students for leadership relationships in the church and community, their next steps in education, and life-long faith and learning success. Experience your child’s potential to soar with an “Education on Eagle’s Wings!” Please call (217) 546-4531 with questions or go to www.oursaviors-school.org.

February 2, 9, 16, 23
Homemade Soup & Salad Fundraiser (5:30 - 7:00pm; Trinity Nazarene church, 1108 Daniel, SPRINGFIELD) Every Friday during the month of February, Trinity Nazarene Church will be hosting the benefit. A choice of 2 homemade soups, fresh homemade salad (varies each week), dessert, coffee or water. All this for only $5 | Children under 12 eat free. All proceeds go to Children's Ministry. Any questions, please contact buzymillie2@yahoo.com

February 2
K of C Fish Fry (4:30 - 7:00pm; K of C, 335 S. 4th St., RIVERTON) Menu: Walleye Sandwich, Walleye, Shrimp, Catfish, Baked Fish Dinners, coleslaw, choice of fries, baked potato or potato salad. Carry-out orders, call 629-7202; more information at www.kofc3914.com
Future Dates: Feb 16, Mar 2, 16 2018

February 2
Chili & Soup Supper (4:00 - 7:00pm, Community Building, PLEASANT PLAINS) Adults $7, Children 12 & Under $3, hosted by Pleasant Plains Masonic Lodge No. 700

February 2 & 3
Listen LIVE to the Illinois Symphony Orchestra at Star Wars & Beyond, The Best of John Williams (7:30pm Friday; Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts, BLOOMINGTON & 7:30pm Saturday; Sangamon Auditorium, UIS, SPRINGFIELD) Friday, Join us after the concert for a reception hosted by the Illinois Symphony Guild of Bloomington-Normal. Saturday, Join us prior to the concert for a variety of family friendly activities. Experience the Illinois Symphony Orchestra for Yourself! Tickets may be purchased in Bloomington through the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts Ticket Office at 309-434-2777 and in Springfield through the Sangamon Auditorium Ticket Office at 217-206-6160. Single ticket prices range from $20 to $60 for premium seating. Student tickets available for $5 (6 years +). Senior discounts are also available. Tickets may also be purchased the night of the concert. Tickets prices do not include auditorium processing and/or ticketing fees. Additional information about the Illinois Symphony Orchestra is available at www.ilsymphony.org.

February 3
Boys CS8 Conference Swimming & Diving Meet (9:00am; Sacred Heart-Griffin HS, SPRINGFIELD) Diving beings at 9am, Swimming at 1pm. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for students (k-12). Heat sheets will be available for $2. For more info, contact bobbarrett@springfieldparks.org or 217-525-8847

February 3
Suit Up! at JC Penney (8:00am - 12:00pm; JCPenney, 1201 S. Dirksen Pkwy) JCPenney has partnered with the Career Service Centers at the University of Illinois at Springfield and Lincoln Land College for a college Suit Up event designed to help students dress for success and jump start their careers. The event will take place at the JCPenney in Springfield on Saturday, Feb. 3, to accommodate students looking for advice on what to wear for job interviews. Faculty, staff and alumni from these schools, along with members of the JCPenney team, will be on-hand to offer insights into the latest career fashion trends, how a suit should fit, what size to buy, how to tie a tie and more.

JCPenney will offer a special 40 percent discount to all University of Illinois at Springfield and Lincoln Land College students with a valid ID during this event. Through this substantial discount, men can easily purchase a Stafford suit jacket and pants, shirts, ties, belts and shoes for under $200. Women can buy a Worthington suit jacket, skirt, shirt and shoes for under $100.

Students will also have a chance to receive a free mini makeover at Sephora Inside JCPenney, and receive a free salon consultation and xpress bar hair touch up at the JCPenney Salon. Additionally, the JCPenney Portrait Studio will offer University of Illinois at Springfield and Lincoln Land College students the chance to have their business headshots taken with packages starting as low as $29.99.

February 3
Practice Climb for Fight For Air Climb Springfield (2:00 - 3:00pm; Wyndham Springfield City Centre, 700 E Adams St., SPRINGFIELD) Must be registered for the Fight For Air Climb Springfield
Train in the stairwell! Join us at the Wyndham Springfield City Center for a Practice Climb before event day. You must be a registered participant with your $100 fundraising minimum complete to attend. You may turn in donations at the Practice Climb. American Lung Association staff will be downstairs on the Concourse level to check everyone in. A FitClub trainer will lead us in a warm up before we take to the stairwell. Experienced climbers will be available for questions and climbing tips. You can climb at your own pace as much as you want during the hour.
Visit our website at www.ClimbWyndham.org or contact staff at 217-787-5864 or via email at EventsIL@Lung.org.

February 3
Pancake and Whole Hog Sausage Meal (7:00am - 1:00pm; Zion Lutheran School PTL, 1600 Woodlawn Road, LINCOLN) Adult tickets are $7.00 and Children tickerts are $4.00 (3yrs.-12yrs.) Children under 3 eat free! ). There will be a meat room, a bake sale, and a silent auction. Thank you in advance for your support.

February 3
Adults Only Owl Prowl at the Anita Purves Nature Center and Busey Woods (7:00 - 9:00pm; Anita Purves Nature Center, 1505 N Broadway Ave, URBANA) Sign up by Jan 20 for the early price of $7R/$11NR.Explore Busey Woods at night in search of owls with Illinois Natural History Survey Avian Specialist Tara Beveroth. Start with a native Illinois owls multimedia presentation. Then head outside to listen for them calling. After the hike, meet the Anita Purves Nature Center’s resident screech owls and warm up with hot chocolate. Fees for this hike support the care of the nature center’s education animals. Dress for wet, cold and slippery conditions. Hikes are on non-paved or boardwalk trails.
Age Day Date Time Deadline |Cost Code
Age 15+ Sat Feb 3 7-9pm Jan 27$9R/$14NR | XXXX

February 3
9th Annual Trivia Night (4:30pm; Bank of Springfield (BOS) Center, SPRINGFIELD) $10 per person.
Crime Stoppers of Sangamon and Menard Counties will hold its 9th Annual Trivia Night on Saturday, February 3, 2018, at the Bank of Springfield (BOS) Center located in downtown Springfield, IL. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. with live music by Dave Littrell starting at 5:00 p.m. The trivia game starts at 7:00 p.m. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever by working to beat last year’s record of 103 tables. You can sign-up your team up by accessing the Crime Stoppers website at www.cashfortips.us. Or, call 622-9547 to register by phone.
Crime Stoppers is offering some of the largest prizes in the Midwest. The first-place team will receive $500, second place $300 and third place $200. The event will feature a variety of activities including live music by Dave Littrell, a wall of wine, 10 for 10 raffle, 50/50 drawing and the ever-popular heads or tails game which provides trivia aficionados the chance to win additional prize money.
This year’s event will, again, feature Emcee John Spalding from WFMB-FM and Joe Crain from News Channel 20. It will also showcase a “live music round” performance by none other than Dave Littrell. Questions are prepared by Russ Friedewald of Trivia Workshop, so you know they will be challenging. You can bring your own food and snacks and there will be plenty of refreshments available for purchase at the BOS center.
Now is the time to get your team of ten together and register for Crime Stoppers 9th Annual Trivia Night. Your tax-deductible support is critical in helping us make a difference. The cost is $10 per person (10-person maximum table/team). 217-622-9547

February 3
Illinois Presidents Super Saturday (11:00am - 3:00pm; Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring Street, SPRINGFIELD) Free with admission | Museum Admission: $5 for adults ages 19-64; free admission for Members, youth, seniors, military, and veterans | President’s day is celebrated every February. In honor of the State Bicentennial, come learn about the four Presidents who have called Illinois home: Lincoln, Grant, Reagan, and Obama. Visitors will enjoy fun facts, crafts, and activities.
Super Saturdays offer free, thematic activities recommended for children ages 5 and up each month. Activities take 30-40 minutes to complete and feature crafts and educational games. Parents and families are encouraged to participate. For additional information, please contact Elizabeth Bazan, events@illinoisstatemuseum.org or (217) 558-6696 or (217) 782-7386.

February 3
Adopt-a-Pet (12:00 - 4:00pm; Petco, 2721 S Veterans Pkwy, SPRINGFIELD) Benld Adopt-A-Pet, a non-profit, no-kill animal shelter, will hold a Pet Adoption. All of our pets are spayed/neutered, micro-chipped and up to date on shots. For more information call 217.835.2538 or visit our website at www.benldadoptapet.org .

February 3
Get it Wright Trivia Night 2018 (7:00pm; Panther Creek Clubhouse, 3001 Panther Creek Drive, SPRINGFIELD) Sponsored by the Dana-Thomas House Foundation.
Reservations at $10 per person available on www.Dana-Thomas.org | $100 per Table (seats 8-10) | Doors open at 6 PM / Trivia begins at 7 PM | 2 ten-minute stretch breaks
Games | Prizes | Mulligans | Cash Bar | Drinks & Snacks available for purchase | Please no outside food or beverages
Contact Celeste Pankey at 217-416-4955 or dthf@sbcglobal.net
Proceeds benefit the Dana-Thomas House Foundation to promote public awareness of the architectural significance of the Frank Lloyd Wright designed Dana-Thomas House.

February 3, 10
NEW! Animal Care Helpers (9:00 - 11:00am; Anita Purves Nature Center, 1505 N Broadway Ave, URBANA) Caring for wildlife in captivity is a big job. You can help nature center staff take care of the education owls, turtles and snakes during this exclusive opportunity. Help clean cages, feed and water, exercise the animals and other related tasks. All proceeds help fund the ongoing care of these animals. Group size is limited to four people on each date, and pre-registration is required. Children age 14 and under must attend with a registered adult. Ages 6 through adult (under 15 must attend with a registered adult) Register by the early deadline for a price break!
Date E.B. Cost | Deadline Cost | Deadline Code
Jan 13 $14R/$21NR |Dec 30 $15R/$23NR | Jan 11 xxxx
Jan 20 $14R/$21NR |Jan 6 $15R/$23NR | Jan 18 xxxx
Jan 27 $14R/$21NR |Jan 13 $15R/$23NR | Jan 25 xxxx
Feb 3 $14R/$21NR |Jan 20 $15R/$23NR | Feb 1 xxxx
Feb 10 $14R/$21NR |Jan 27 $15R/$23NR | Feb 8

February 4
Concert: Mark Gifford (7:30pm; Central Christian Church, 650 W William St., DECATUR) You are invited to a concert with Mark Gifford, presenting Silent Movie/Streamboat Bill Jr.. Free admission to the public. Mark Gifford has been performing on the Barton Theatre Pipe Organ in SHS since Spring ’93.

February 4, 5
AUDITIONS: “Revenge: Treasure Island” (7:00 - 9:00pm; Sangamon South Room 0015, LLC, SPRINGFIELD) “Revenge: Treasure Island” is a world-premiere sequel to “Treasure Island,” which was performed by LLCC in 2016. This new script is written and directed by Mark Hardiman, professor of theatre. It features leading roles for women and men and exciting sword fights throughout. The outdoor production will run May 11, 12, 13, 19 and 20 at 8 p.m. in the Helen Hamilton area near the campus lake.
Following up on the original story in Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale in which a young Jim battles with and outwits pirates, “Revenge: Treasure Island” takes place some years after Jim and crew return to England. Adventure ensues, featuring kidnapping, double-crosses and a ship-to-ship battle.
College students and community members are encouraged to audition. Those interested in backstage duties or stage management should drop by auditions for a brief conference with Professor Hardiman or contact him directly at mark.hardiman@llcc.edu. More information on specific roles can be found at www.llcc.edu/theatre.

February 4, 6
MOLLY SCHLICH INDEPENDENT & INTERNATIONAL FILM SERIES: Polina (1:00pm & 4:00pm Sunday, 7:00pm Tuesday; AMC Parkway 8, 3025 Lindbergh Boulevard, SPRINGFIELD) $8 adults | $4 students with ID. All films during the MSIIFS are played at 1 & 4 PM on Sundays, and again on Tuesdays at 7PM. Single tickets are available for purchase at the door. The Film Series has been entertaining and challenging movie lovers for over 25 years by bringing independent and international films to Springfield. Proceeds from the series benefit the Michael Victor II Art Library.

February 3, 10, 17, 24
Single and Parenting Classes (6:30pm; Trinity Lutheran School, 515 S. MacArthur, SPRINGFIELD) According to U.S. Census Bureau single-parent families accounted for about 12 million families in 2014. As more of today's children are raised by single parents, primarily by their mothers, there is a need for single parents to meet to talk about the issues that affect single parent households. A 4-week mini session of Single & Parenting will begin on Saturday evening, February 3, at 6:30 pm. Sessions will be held in the Parish Center at Trinity Lutheran School, 515 S. MacArthur. There is no fee to attend and childcare will be provided.
Participants will discuss practical strategies on grace-centered parenting, communication, and conflict resolution. Since this is a mini-session, class members will select the topics to be discussed each week; possible topics could include discipline, communication, and conflict resolution. Each two-hour class utilizes a video presentation, group discussion and personal Bible study about relationships and parenting.
For more information, call 217.685-8099 or e-mail at trinitysingleandparenting@gmail.com. Visit the Single & Parenting website at singleandparenting.org.

February 3-28
University of Illinois Press Public History Exhibit (All Day; The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1st Floor North-South Corridor, Main Library, 1408 W. Gregory Drive, URBANA) : In honor of 100 years of printing and publishing history, the University of Illinois Press will have a public history display in the North-South Corridor of the Main Library of the Champaign-Urbana campus throughout February 2018. The six display cases and the wallboards above them will contain a wealth of materials selected by UIP staff from the University Archives and their own archival materials related to the Press history of design and printing, award-winning scholarship, Illinois history publications, their outstanding series Music in American Life and Working Class in American History, their commitment to social justice issues, and much more.
For more information, please visit https://www.press.uillinois.edu/press_centennial.html.

February 5
Memorial Center Support Group (4:00 - 6:00pm; Memorial Center, SPRINGFIELD) For more information, call 217-788-3461 or 788-3300.

February 6
Millikin University Piano Club (6:00pm; Perkinson Music Center, Room 110, DECATUR) Dr. Rochelle Sennet, associate professor of piano at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, will present a lecture-recital on Tuesday, Feb. 6, entitled "African-American composers and Eclecticism: The Music of James Lee III" in Perkinson Music Center, Room 110, on Millikin University's campus. The recital will start at 6 p.m. followed by a masterclass for Millikin piano students at 7:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. For more information contact Dane Lisser, Millikin University Media Relations Coordinator, at 217.420.6636 or dlisser@millikin.edu.

February 6 - April 26
Bistro Verde (11:00am - 1:00pm; LLCC, SPRINGFIELD) Bistro Verde, Lincoln Land Community College’s student-run café, will be open during the spring 2018 semester on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. beginning Tuesday, Feb. 6. The community is invited to experience food prepared and served by LLCC culinary arts, baking and pastry, and hospitality students.

Bistro Verde will operate through Thursday, March 8 as a casual bistro and from Thursday, March 29 through Thursday, April 26 with fine dining service. Reservations are encouraged, and can be made by emailing bistroverde@llcc.edu, calling 217-786-2821 or stopping by the café during hours of business. Cash and debit or credit cards are accepted.

The café’s dining room is staffed by students from the Dining Room Operations class, and food is prepared by students in the Food Production IV class. Desserts are created by students enrolled in the Advanced Baking and Pastry and Restaurant Desserts classes, while bread is supplied by the Artisan Breads class. Students gain practical hands-on experience and learn about providing diners with high quality food and service to create a memorable dining occasion. They are taught and supervised by an experienced team of professional culinary instructors.

LLCC offers an associate in applied science degree in culinary arts and also in hospitality management and services. Certificates offered include culinary manager, first cook, and baking and pastry. LLCC also offers non-credit cooking and baking classes, as well as Bistro Verde dinners through the Culinary Institute.

More information is available at www.llcc.edu/bistro-verde.

February 6
Kindergarten Preview Night (6:00pm; Springfield Christian School, 2850 Cider Mill Ln., SPRINGFIELD) Springfield Christian School (SCS) at 2850 Cider Mill Ln. is hosting a Kindergarten Preview Night at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 6, for the 2018-2019 school year. A tour of the school and visit to the classrooms will follow the 30-minute presentation. Parents and in-coming kindergarteners interested in the school are encouraged to attend. Refreshments will be provided. Questions? Call the school office at 217-698-1933 ext. 3450 or visit www.springfieldchristianschool.org.
Springfield Christian School, an award-winning K-8 educational system located in Springfield, Illinois, offers low class sizes, instruction tailored to individual needs, and the latest educational technology to facilitate student engagement and excellence. SCS’s experienced and professional staff utilizes a rigorous Christ-centered curriculum and differentiated instruction methods to encourage students to reach their full potential. SCS challenges students to aspire to lives of character, service and leadership. SCS is fully recognized by the Illinois State Board of Education.

February 7
Wednesday Afternoon at the Movies (2:00pm; Westville Public Library, WESTVILLE) Westville Public Library will host Wednesday Afternoon at the Movies on February 7 at 2 PM. The film stars Don Ameche and Betty Grable in Moon Over Miami. Call the library at 267-3170 to reserve your seat for this classic romantic comedy just in time for Valentine's Day.

February 7
HIV/AIDS Awareness and Testing (9:00 - 11:00am; A. Lincoln Commons, LLCC, SPRINGFIELD) Participants will be provided information concerning HIV/AIDS and can also be tested

February 7
Soup & Stories “Adversities Are Your Ally” (11:45am - 1:00pm; Robert H. Stephens Room, Menard Hall, LLCC, SPRINGFIELD) Presented by Casandra Austin, consultant, speaker and author of “Unclothed: Memoir of a Naked Soul," The event is free to students with a student ID and $3 for non-students. Register for this event by calling 217-786-2241.

February 8
Understanding the University Press Ecosystem: Savvy Researcher Workshop (2:00pm; The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 106 Main Library, 1408 W. Gregory Drive, URBANA) In order to get published, first you need to find a publisher. But how do you find the right one? James Engelhardt, Acquisitions Editor at the University of Illinois Press, will give an overview of the University Press ecosystem and provide helpful hints about finding the right publisher, submitting proposals, dealing with editors, and more. For more information, please visit https://www.press.uillinois.edu/press_centennial.html.
Contact: uipress@uillinois.edu, 217-333-0950

February 8
Music at the Museum Series: Michael Johnathan (7:00pm; Michael Johnathan, Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring Street, SPRINGFIELD) Fee: $10 adults, $8 Museum Members and Children under 12 | Michael Johnathon is a folksinger, songwriter, concert performer, and author who created and hosts the worldwide broadcast of the WoodSongs Old-Time Radio Hour with a radio audience with over a million listeners each week on 500 public radio stations, PBS-TV coast-to-coast plus American Forces Radio Network in 173 nations. He is also a consummate performer of traditional, contemporary and original folk songs.
Music at the Museum is a monthly concert series produced by Chris Vallillo featuring the best in contemporary and traditional folk and acoustic music of all styles. Concerts are held the second Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Museum auditorium. Tickets are available at the door. For more information on the featured acts and a full series schedule, visit museumconcerts.com.
For additional information, please contact Elizabeth Bazan, events@illinoisstatemuseum.org or (217) 558-6696 or (217) 782-7386.

February 8
Champaign-Urbana Astronomical Society Club Meeting (7:00 - 8:30pm; William M. Staerkel Planetarium, 2400 West Bradley Avenue, CHAMPAIGN) Doug Rokke will talk on his backyard observatory construction and we will use the planetarium's projector to view interesting upcoming events happening in the night sky. A short club business meeting will precede the talks. http://cuas.org/events-page/

February 9
From Russia With Love (7:30pm; Hoogland Center for the Arts, Theatre 3, SPRINGFIELD) Featuring Saxophonist Shayla Logan. Stirring, colorful, and passionate: nothing warms the heart quite like the music of the Russian greats! Join the Sangamon Valley Civic Orchestra in its winter concert “From Russia With Love” to enjoy an evening with Russia’s masterful composers and their most enduring works.

From the delicate beauty of Rachmaninoff’s famous Vocalise and Tchaikovsky’s Waltz from Sleeping Beauty to the power and majesty of Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, this concert explores the gamut of Russian expression through music. And, don’t miss the chance to see local saxophone soloist Shayla Logan as she performs Glazunov’s Concerto for Alto Saxophone in collaboration with the orchestra.

Experience the concert yourself on Friday, February 9th at 7:30pm in Hoogland Center for the Arts' Theatre 3. Tickets are available for purchase in advance by contacting 217-523-2787 or visiting www.hcfta.org. $10 for adults, $5 for students, free for children 12 and under.

February 9
Homemade Soup & Salad Fundraiser (5:30 - 7:00pm; Trinity Nazarene church, 1108 Daniel, SPRINGFIELD) Every Friday during the month of February, Trinity Nazarene Church will be hosting the benefit. A choice of 2 homemade soups, fresh homemade salad (varies each week), dessert, coffee or water. All this for only $5 | Children under 12 eat free. All proceeds go to Children's Ministry. Any questions, please contact buzymillie2@yahoo.com

February 9
Black History Month: Celebration of African American Art: Paint & Sip (6:30pm; Millikin University Commons, 3rd Floor Banquet Room, DECATUR) Free and open to the public

February 9
Mardi Gras Party with Springfield Junior Blues (6:00pm; 1601 N. Fifth St, SPRINGFIELD) Come out for Happy Hour from 6:05-6:45 | Enjoy $1 Draft during Happy Hour | Free Beads | Selfie Photo Booth with Masks | Special Guest Gracia Harrison from Season 3 of The Voice (Team Blake) Singing the National Anthem | Gumbo from Cooper's Alleyside

February 9, 23
LOVE Yourself: Positive Esteem & Body Image Workshop (4:30 - 6:30pm; Kreative Lounge, White Oaks Mall, 2501 Wabash Ave., SPRINGFIELD) $25 registration fee. Free tee. 2 sessions, 1 fee. Preteen/Teen edition. Fashion Show Finale. Free Food. Lots of fun!
This is a fun, 2-part, hands-on workshop for preteen and teenage girls. The workshops are designed to encourage, increase and foster positive self-esteem! Participants will learn many skills to help promote and maintain positive self-esteem and body image confidence! There will be free food at each session and a free t-shirt to all participants. We will have a fashion show finale that will demonstrate what the participants learned over the sessions! To register contact us today or email us curvycloset217@gmail.com

February 10
Coach Mac's "The Works" Spaghetti Dinner (4:00 - 7:00pm; Oakwood United Methodist Church, Corner of Oakwood and East Collett Streets, OAKWOOD) A freewill donation will be taken. All proceeds will go to support the "Appalachia Service Project Group" mission trip this summer. Contact Pastor Legg, 217-354-4950, for more info.

February 10
Valentines Day with Springfield Junior Blues (1601 N. Fifth St, SPRINGFIELD) Couples' Meal Deal | Selfie Photo Booth | Free Beads | Selfie Booth for Photos | Dinner for Two Give-Aways | Post Game Party with the Team at Cooper's Alleyside

February 10
Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast (7:00 - 11:00am; American Legion Post #73110 W. Franklin, TAYLORVILLE) All you can eat. $5 per person. More information call 217-287-1212.

February 10
Cybersecurity Workshops (1:00 – 2:00pm; Logan Hall Room 1133, LLCC, SPRINGFIELD) Lincoln Land Community College’s computer networking faculty will be hosting two workshops on cybersecurity. These events will take place on the LLCC Springfield campus, 5250 Shepherd Road, and are free and open to the public. LLCC instructors will be presenting ways to secure your computer from viruses and discussing current cyberattacks. Attendees will learn how to protect themselves from outside hackers.
FUTURE DATE: On May 1, from 6-7 p.m., LLCC instructors will present “Is Your Wireless Safe?” also in Logan Hall Room 1133. They will share tips on how to protect home wireless systems and discuss safety when out using the public Wi-Fi at your favorite coffee shop.
To register for workshops and learn more about LLCC’s cybersecurity program, please visit the LLCC Cyber Center webpage at www.llcc.edu/cyber-center.

February 10
Elwin Church Pancake and Biscuits & Gravy Day (7:00 - 11:00am; ELWIN) $7 adults, $3 children 6 to 12, FREE under 6. There will also be a United Methodist Women Bake Sale.

February 10
Montgomery Gentry “HERE’S TO YOU” Tour (Boondocks, SPRINGFIELD) Montgomery Gentry, will be coming to Springfield, IL, February 10th. Eddie is currently touring in support of the much-anticipated album, Here’s to You, out February 2, 2018. This emotional return to the stage is the first time member Eddie Montgomery will be touring without the late Troy Gentry. Eddie and his band, The Wild Bunch, are back out on the road to play new music for the fans and continue Troy’s and the band’s legacy. This year mark’s Montgomery Gentry's 20th Anniversary.
In honor of Gentry and their nearly two decades-worth of chart-topping country music, fans can expect to hear their greatest hits mixed with anticipated Here’s to You tracks. Doors open at 7pm and tickets start at $25 for ages 21 and up. For additional information visit https://www.boondockspub.com/event/1608953-montgomery-gentry-springfield/.

February 10
Great Gatsby themed dance and membership drive (7:00 - 10:00pm; VFW, 2211 Old Jacksonville Rd., SPRINGFIELD) If you are looking for something fun and different to do with your Sweetie for Valentines Day this event is for you! The Springfield Ski Club is offering free to the public a Great Gatsby themed dance and membership drive. The evening includes contests, door prizes and a Great Gatsby themed photo booth. New members incentive dance night only is 3 free months of membership PLUS half off your first-year membership dues. Invite your friends! Put on your best Flapper and Gangster gear and come join us for a roaring good time! Note we want this to be a fun night for everyone so other varieties of music will be offered as well.

February 10
Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday Party (10:00am - 2:00pm; Christian County Historical Society & Museum, Rte 48 & Rte 29, TAYLORVILLE) Learn more about our 16th president and enjoy some birthday cake made with Abe’s favorite recipe. The cost is $3.00 per person (ages 4 & under free). Abe has a birthday wish list of office and cleaning supplies to help the museum to run smoothly throughout the year. Gifts brought for Abe may be wrapped or unwrapped. Lunch will be available for purchase. There will be activities for all ages including crafts, old time photo booth, hands on Civil War activity table, coloring contest, face painting and more). The first 24 children ages 5 and up will receive a special item from President Lincoln. For more info call 217-824-6922 or go to https://www.facebook.com/Christiancountyhistoricalsociety/

February 10
SAA Collective's Dancing with the Starz (5:00 - 10:00pm; Wyndham Springfield City Center, 700 E. Adams St., SPRINGFIELD) Tickets can be purchased until February 2 online at springfieldart.org/dwts. Tickets are $65 per person or $600 for a table of ten. Area personalities have been rehearsing with their dancing partners since November in preparation for an amazing show. "This year's starz are really going to bring a great show. They are coming with some lively routines and techniques we have never brought to the DWTS stage," says gallery director Corrin McWhirter. This year’s theme is En Plein Air, a reference to the art tern for act of painting outdoors. For the first time at the event an artist will be live painting. Carolyn Owen Sommer, an SAA Collective Artist, will produce a watercolor painting over the course of the night that will be auctioned off as part of the silent auction. "We are very excited about this addition," remarks McWhirter, "Guest will see one of our talented local artists create in front of their eyes." The event boosts great food, live music by the Tim Holl Quartet, an art filled silent auction, open dancing and of course a not-to-miss dance competition. Pre-votes can be made online now at www.springfieldart.org/dwts.

February 10, 11
Prairie State Orchid Society Show and Sale (12:00pm; Washington Park Botanical Gardens, 1740 W Fayette, SPRINGFIELD) Free admission. Saturday show and sale noon to 4pm, Sunday show noon to 4pm, sale noon to 3pm. Orchids, pots, bark and other growing supplies. Will also provide help with repotting, raffle prize drawings on Sunday. Experience growers will be on hand to answer questions. Handouts on orchid culture and care will be available.

February 11
Kilbourne Volunteer Firemen Spaghetti Dinner (11:00am - 2:30pm; Kilbourne Community Center/Fire Department, 200 Block of West Walnut, KILBOURNE) Adults: $7 | Children 4-10: $3 | 3&under: FREE
Any questions you may contact Captain Steve Grim at 217-415-6404 or kfd301@@hotmail.com

February 11, 13
MOLLY SCHLICH INDEPENDENT & INTERNATIONAL FILM SERIES: Loving Vincent (1:00pm & 4:00pm Sunday, 7:00pm Tuesday; AMC Parkway 8, 3025 Lindbergh Boulevard, SPRINGFIELD) $8 adults | $4 students with ID. All films during the MSIIFS are played at 1 & 4 PM on Sundays, and again on Tuesdays at 7PM. Single tickets are available for purchase at the door. The Film Series has been entertaining and challenging movie lovers for over 25 years by bringing independent and international films to Springfield. Proceeds from the series benefit the Michael Victor II Art Library.

February 12
Movie Review and Discussion of “Marshall" (10:30am/1:00pm; Robert H. Stephens Room, Menard Hall, LLCC, SPRINGFIELD) The movie features the story of Thurgood Marshall, the American civil rights leader who helped change the landscape of American society.

February 12 - March 27
The ART of Illustration (M-Th 10am-7pm; Sat 12pm-2pm. Giertz Gallery at Parkland College, 2400 Bradley Avenue, CHAMPAIGN) For The ART of Illustration, curator Liza Wynette selected 10 contemporary U.S. illustrators known for their innovative work, personal style, and varying methods of creating their originals from paintbrush and gouache through digital manipulation. The exhibition will also feature books, packaging, and animation.
Wynette, a practicing illustrator and owner of Esoterra Studio, currently teaches graphic design classes at Parkland College. Her goal in curating the exhibit was to give visitors a glimpse into the wide range of styles, techniques, mediums, and formats illustrators work in today.
Gallery visitors will encounter the illustrations of Anna and Elena Balbusso, Ed Binkley, Chris Buzelli, Marcos Chin, Tatsuro Kiuchi, Miriam Martincic, Bill Mayer, James Prosek, Ralph Steadman and Matt Wiley. Their works have been published throughout the world on such varied media as book jackets, children's books, classic novels, magazines, and newspapers including The New Yorker, The New York Times, National Geographic, Time, Rolling Stone, GQ, Sports Illustrated, The Village Voice, and The Wall Street Journal.
Gallery is closed February 22 and March 17-24 | artgallery.parkland.edu | giertzgallery@parkland.edu

February 12
10th annual Lincoln Lecture (9:00am; Robert H. Stephens Room of Menard Hall, LLCC, 5250 Shepherd Rd., SPRINGFIELD) James M. Cornelius, Ph.D., curator of the Lincoln Collection at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, will speak on the topic, “Abraham Lincoln: Nature Boy or Science Drone.” Dr. Cornelius, a native of Minneapolis, worked for 10 years as an editor in New York City at Doubleday, Random House and Collier’s Encyclopedia, then for eight years in the University of Illinois Library’s Illinois History and Lincoln Collections. In 2007, he became curator of the Lincoln Collection at the most-visited presidential library and the premier repository in the world of Lincoln manuscripts, family possessions, published works, and fine or popular art. He has written or edited several books, mainly on American and British history, especially Lincoln. Most recently he co-authored the official commemorative guide to the Presidential Museum; oversaw publication and introduced ”Gettysburg Replies,” a showcase of original short essays by 100 famous people, including five former presidents, writing about Lincoln or a related current topic; and co-authored “Under Lincoln's Hat: 100 Objects that Tell the Story of His Life and Legacy.” He is currently serving as a member of the 2018 Illinois Bicentennial Commission.
Also on Lincoln’s birthday, representatives from the Lincoln Home National Historic Site will sponsor an informational display in A. Lincoln Commons on the Springfield campus.
LLCC-Litchfield will live stream the movie “Lincoln” at 1 p.m.
On Feb. 13, LLCC-Taylorville will sponsor a presentation on President Lincoln at 1 p.m. in the South Building, Room 1115.
On Feb. 14, LLCC-Jacksonville will host Pam Brown as Mary Todd Lincoln in “Taking Leave,” written by Ken Bradbury, at 10 a.m. followed by a Q & A session. The Gettysburg Address will also be read.
The public is invited to all events without charge. In addition, LLCC-Beardstown will sponsor a student trip to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum in Springfield on Feb. 12.

February 13
Environmental Meeting (6:00 - 7:30pm; Decatur Public Library, Madden Auditorium, 130 N Franklin St., DECATUR) Interested in promoting conservation, preservation, restoration, and environmental awareness in Macon County? Join us for an informational meeting for a better understanding of the Community Environmental Council and its role in the community. We will discuss our current projects, such as the Friends of Lincoln Trail Homestead State Park and the “Stop the Logging” campaign, and ask for suggestions for new ones! Open to interested citizens who want to make a difference. Contact: Judy Parrish jparrish@millikin.edu / Refreshments provided

February 13
16th Annual Education Career Day (9:00am - 12:00pm; A. Lincoln Commons, LLCC, 5250 Shepherd Road, SPRINGFIELD) The public is invited to attend. Students and community members interested in education as a career, including individuals who already have a bachelor’s degree, are encouraged to attend the event. The event provides attendees the opportunity to learn about LLCC’s associate degrees in education and transfer opportunities to various four-year institutions, ask questions of representatives from participating colleges and universities, and compare programs.
Nine four-year institutions with teacher education/training programs will participate in the event: Blackburn College, Eastern Illinois University, Greenville University, Illinois College, Indiana West University, Quincy University, Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, University of Illinois-Springfield and Western Illinois University.

February 14
“Evolution of Music” Flashback Wednesday and Voter Registration Day (11:00am - 1:00pm; A. Lincoln Commons., LLCC, SPRINGFIELD) co-sponsored by the African-American History Month Committee and the LLCC Black Student Union

February 14
Director's Panel: Reflections on the University of Illinois Press at 100 (3:00 - 5:00pm; The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 106 Main Library, 1408 W. Gregory Drive, URBANA) A Director’s Panel on February 14, 2018 will be chaired by Dean James D. Anderson, Dean of the College of Education and a long-time member of the University of Illinois Press Faculty Board, to kick-off the centennial celebrations at U of I. Laurie Matheson will engage in a mediated conversation with two previous Press directors, Willis Regier and Richard Wentworth, to discuss the Press’s decades-long commitment to supporting scholarship on social justice issues and publishing underrepresented voices and histories. The panel will be followed by a reception. Attendees will also have the opportunity to view the public history exhibit in the Main Library’s North-South Corridor and talk with the University of Illinois Press staff and library staff who helped bring the exhibit to life. For more information, please visit https://www.press.uillinois.edu/press_centennial.html.

February 15
Preschool & K-8th Open House (6:00 - 7:00pm; Our Savior’s School, 2645 Old Jacksonville Rd., SPRINGFIELD) We invite you to learn more about our Preschool through 8th grade education during Our Savior’s Open Houses. See how Our Savior’s children receive the Three Daily Essentials: living Christ-Centered lives, building Timeless Relationships, and learning in a Culture of Excellence. Our Savior’s prepares students for leadership relationships in the church and community, their next steps in education, and life-long faith and learning success. Experience your child’s potential to soar with an “Education on Eagle’s Wings!” Please call (217) 546-4531 with questions or go to www.oursaviors-school.org.

February 15
Springfield Rail Improvements Project: Public Open House (4:00 - 7:00pm; Bank of Springfield Center, 1 Convention Center Plaza, SPRINGFIELD) Come anytime. There is no formal presentation. Interested citizens and business people will be able to talk with project team members to learn about the project activities. Informational stations will be staffed by team members who will share updates on the project's current construction segment at Ash and Laurel Streets, Carpenter St. archeological site, land acquisition, and funding.

February 15
Designed, Displayed, & Discarded: Ephemeral Printing in Alton, Illinois, 1835-1855 (9:00 - 5:00pm; The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, The Ellen and Nirmal Chatterjee Exhibition Gallery in the Rare Book & Manuscript Library, 346 Main Library, 1408 W. Gregory Drive, URBANA) This exhibition features a selection of items from the Alton Telegraph Printer’s Scrapbooks, now in the collection of the Rare Book & Manuscript Library. These two workaday scrapbooks are filled with extraordinarily preserved examples of job printing produced by the Alton Telegraph newspaper for local businesses and organizations in the mid-nineteenth century. Ballots, advertisem*nts, product labels, concert programs, posters, and other items immerse the viewer in the everyday life of Alton, Illinois, a city located fifteen miles north of St. Louis on the Mississippi River. At the same time, these items illustrate the creative use of typefaces, type ornaments, and borders by the printer. Additional contextual materials, including daguerreotypes, have been drawn from the Illinois History and Lincoln Collections.
On view for the bicentennial of Illinois statehood, this joint venture between the Rare Book & Manuscript Library and the Illinois History and Lincoln Collections examines the role of print and design in the everyday life of early Illinois.
For more information, visit http://www.library.illinois.edu/rbx.

February 15
Business After Hours (4:30 - 7:00pm; Hope, 15 East Hazel Dell Lane, SPRINGFIELD) Hors d’oervers and beverages | $5 Chamber members | $15 for guests

February 15 - 17
Gateway Gas & Advertising Show (Doubletree Hotel & Conference Center, 1000 Eastport Plaza Dr., COLLINSVILLE) Free Admission; February 15th 2pm -10pm | February 16th 9am-10 pm | February 17th 9am – 1pm
The Gateway Gas & Advertising Show, held in Collinsville IL, is an amazing opportunity to find Antique petroliana and advertising pieces you know, love, and perhaps never knew existed. Explore the outdoor vending, survey unique items for sale in the ballrooms, and discover relaxed hotel room to room trade. All areas have quality dealers with exceptional items. From early oil tins, signs, store displays, and more, you’re sure to find something you want for your man cave or home. Surrounded by great atmosphere, fine dealers, and a wide variety in petroliana and antique advertising, it can become the picker’s dream.
For more information go to www.getwaygas.com, or contact Northstar Collective at P.O. Box 530, Park Falls, WI 54552, or by phone 906-250-1618, or by email admin@gatewaygas.com.

February 16
K of C Fish Fry (4:30 - 7:00pm; K of C, 335 S. 4th St., RIVERTON) Menu: Walleye Sandwich, Walleye, Shrimp, Catfish, Baked Fish Dinners, coleslaw, choice of fries, baked potato or potato salad. Carry-out orders, call 629-7202; more information at www.kofc3914.com
Future Dates: Mar 2, 16 2018

February 16
Firefighters Fish Fry (5:00 - 7:30pm; Firefighter's Postal Lake Club, 940 W Lake Dr., SPRINGFIELD)
Walleye Dinner (fried) - All you can eat is dine in only: $8 | Walleye Dinner Ticket 2016 - 6 walleye dinners anytime during lent: $40 | Orange Roughy Fillet Dinner - cooked to order: $9 | Orange Roughy/Shrip Combo - cooked to order: $12 | Shrimp dinner - cooked to order - cajun or battered: $9 | Kid's Walleye dinner: $4 | Kid's chicken tenders: $4 | Hot dog dinner: $4
Dinners include choice of baked potato or fries with cole slaw, dessert & coffee.

February 16
Marvel Studios' Black Panther Private Screening (7:00pm; The Avon Theater, 426 N. Water St., DECATUR) $5 at the door. The African Student Organization is excited to offer Millikin students, faculty and staff the opportunity to watch a private screening of Marvel Studios' Black Panther on premiere night at the Avon Theater in downtown Decatur.

February 16
Youth Service Bureau Annual Trivia Night (Doors at 6:00pm; Christ the King Community Center, 1930 Barberry Dr., SPRINGFIELD) Doors open at 6:00 pm, competition at 7:00 pm. There will be a silent auction, wine wall and a 50/50 raffle. Food and drink available to purchase. The annual fundraiser is being held to raise funds to help provide services to at risk youth and their families in our community. Prizes for competition will include: First Place Prize of $250, Second Place Prize of $150, and Third Place Prize of $100. Cost is $10 per person, tables of 8 -10 participants. To register, contact Jeanette McDermith at 529-8300 ext. 203.

Ice Jamz: Teen Night (7:00 - 9:00pm; The Nelson Center, 1601 N 5th St., SPRINGFIELD) Spend a Friday Night ice skating with your friends at the Nelson Center Ice Rink! Enjoy the light show, music, games, giveaways and more! For ages 13-17. Call 217-753-2800 for more information. $11 with skate rental, $9 without.

February 16 & 17
The Midwest Tribute to the King (7:00pm; Route 66 Hotel and Conference Center, 625 E. Joseph St., SPRINGFIELD) Tickets starting at $23. tix.extremetix.com/webtix/1642
Join us for a special Elvis Tribute Artist Meet, GReet, and Eat at BURGER BAR (2765 S. 6th St., SPRINGFIELD) on Saturday, February 17 12:00pm to 2:00pm

February 16-18
Trinity Alumni & Friends Reunion (Trinity Lutheran School, 515 S. MacArthur Blvd., SPRINGFIELD) All alumni of Trinity, whether graduated or just attended the school but didn’t graduate, are invited back to re-establish friendships, to visit with former teachers, and to tour the campus to see the many changes to the school.
Activities will include a Trinity Trivia contest; a video/slideshow of Trinity through the decades; Kids Corner; a History Corner of artifacts and documents about Trinity; a school-wide Selfie Scavenger Hunt; and a “Minute to Win It” game. Refreshments and a light lunch will be served. Participants will also be involved in a “Trinity National Service Day” to collect needed items for Basket of Hope Springfield Branch.
There is a $10 registration fee; please call to reserve your luncheon spot. A complete schedule and a registration form is available online at www.trinity-lutheran.com or on Trinity’s Facebook page under “Trinity Alumni and Friends”. For more information, call 217.787.2323.

February 16, 23
KC/CDA Fish Dinner at Knights of Columbus (Fridays during LENT, 5:30 - 7:00pm; Knights of Columbus, 320 East State Street, JACKSONVILLE) Catfish, Walleye, Baked Potato, Baked Beans, Cole Slaw, Dessert and Drink
Adults $9 | Students $5

February 17
Adopt-a-Pet (12:00 - 4:00pm; PetSmart, 3183 S. Veterans Pkwy; SPRINGFIELD) Benld Adopt-A-Pet, a non-profit, no-kill animal shelter, will hold a Pet Adoption. All of our pets are spayed/neutered, micro-chipped and up to date on shots. For more information call 217.835.2538 or visit our website at www.benldadoptapet.org .

February 17
Cabin Fever Days (7:30p - 11:00pm; VFW Post 755, 2211 Old Jacksonville Rd., SPRINGFIELD) Buddy Poppy Benefit (all proceeds to benefit disabled Vets)
Admission: $5.00/person at the door | Entertainment: Carl Bopp at the keyboards (sounds like a band!) Carl is an incredible musician providing an eclectic range of music--in all genres and styles from CLASSIC to COUNTRY, MODERN to MOOD and just about anything you request. Plan to DANCE, SING ALONG or even take the mic. There will be plenty of talent to enjoy, and you might even be part of it. (bring an instrument if you play, and jam with "the man.").Food: Munchies and hors d'oeuvres compliments of your hosts Cash Bar (can't beat VFW prices) Invite Your Friends and please RSVP: (we'd like an estimate on how to prepare for you so there's plenty of room, food and drink for all) Please email to: jay.kennerly@gmail.com (the sooner I hear, the better!)

February 17
Vocal Jazz Festival (8:00am - 5:00pm; Kirkland Fine Arts Center, Millikin University's campus, DECATUR) Free and open to the public

February 17
2018 Adopt-a-Senior for Valentine's Day (9:30am - 12:00pm, Danville Care Center, 1701 N. Bowman Ave., DANVILLE & 2:30pm - 5:00pm, Colonial Manor, 620 Warrington Ave, DANVILLE) Imagine if you were a senior citizen in a nursing home and had no friends or relatives to visit or contact you. ANY holiday would not be that pleasant. THIS Valentine’s Day weekend Neighbor Love wants to brighten the day of a WHOLE BUNCH of valuable seniors. Neighbor Love is delivering gift bags and hosting a Valentine’s party for the residents of these homes. Looking for a total of 120 gift bags. In our gift bags, we will be placing: - Lip Balm - Socks-Athletic-Reg. or XL (white or gray) - A Carnation- A Piece of fruit - A Hand Made Valentine Card - A Stuffed Toy/LARGE Print WORD Search. Puzzle Book. (exact contents of the gift bag are subject to the availability of merchandise and the amount of donations received) We need volunteers to distribute the cards and gifts to the residents. All volunteers are asked to RSVP at: www.adoptasenior.net
If you would like to donate merchandise, you can drop it off at St. Paul church. For more information, to DONATE and VOLUNTEER visit: www.adoptasenior.net or call Tom Sargeant at 765-400-0315
DEADLINE for Adopting-a-Senior Valentine is Tuesday, February 13th, 2018.

February 17
Feed the Birds (10:00am; Westville Public Library, 233 S. State St., WESTVILLE) Our fine feathered friends have difficulty finding enough food in the winter. Participants will be able to choose how they want to make their peanut butter feeder. Those with allergies must be aware that this program does include the use of nuts. This is a fun activity for all ages. Please register to attend by calling the library at 267-3170.

February 17
Natural Area Management Seminar (8:30am - 4:30pm; Garfield Farm Museum, 3N016 Garfield Rd., CAMPTON HILLS) Learn how to restor and manage prairie, woodlands, and wetlands. Reservations required. $55 includes lunch. www.garfieldfarm.org | 630-584-8485

February 17
FREE! The Great Backyard Bird Count (9:00am - 4:00pm; Anita Purves Nature Center, 1505 N Broadway Ave, URBANA) Help with bird conservation by counting birds. Anyone can participate—count for as little or as long as you wish! Record the birds you see through the windowed Wildlife Observation Room and during guided hikes. Instruction in bird identification will be provided. Dress for the weather, and bring binoculars if you have them or borrow a pair at the nature center. Free activity stations will also be available. To learn more about this annual four-day-long nationwide event, visit gbbc.birdcount.org/.

February 18
Heads Up Groupfor those with traumatic brain injury. (2:00 - 4:00pm; Springfield Center for Independent Living, 330 S. Grand Ave. West, SPRINGFIELD) For more information, contact DAVE via 217-523-2587

February 18
Two Centuries to Celebrate: Illinois at the Bicentennial (2:00 - 4:00pm; Illinois State Museum Auditorium, 502 S. Spring Street, SPRINGFIELD) Free and open to the public. Dr. Wheeler’s program will focus on the ways our state has celebrated milestone anniversaries from statehood in 1818 through the centennial in 1918, as well as the sesquicentennial in 1968. The discussion will include the ongoing bicentennial celebration plans, what makes our state unique, which events are truly worthy of celebration, and the many admirable Illinoisans.
This program is part of the “The Culture and Heritage of Illinoisans” series held on the third Sunday of every month through October, 2018. The series is presented by the Academy of Lifelong Learning at Lincoln Land Community College in collaboration with the Illinois State Museum and will feature several Road Scholar Speakers offered by Illinois Humanities. For more information, please call the Illinois State Museum, (217) 782-0979, or the Academy of Lifelong Learning at Lincoln Land Community College, (217) 786-2477.

February 18
Adopt-a-Pet (12:00 - 4:00pm; Petco, 2721 S Veterans Pkwy, SPRINGFIELD) Benld Adopt-A-Pet, a non-profit, no-kill animal shelter, will hold a Pet Adoption. All of our pets are spayed/neutered, micro-chipped and up to date on shots. For more information call 217.835.2538 or visit our website at www.benldadoptapet.org .

February 18
Percussion Ensembles' Synergy concert (4:00pm; Kirkland Fine Arts Center, DECATUR) The concert is free and open to the public. Millikin percussion students will blare sirens, crank ratchets, ring alarm bells and tune radios at Synergy to celebrate a century of futuristic, mechanical music for percussion. Classic works like Edgard Varèse's "Hyperprism" and John Cage's "Radio Music" reflect these composers' hopeful experimentation with new sounds, where Leo Orenstein's "Suicide in an Airplane" and Ivan Trevino's "Space Junk" use evocative imagery to highlight more fearful attitudes toward technological innovation.
For more information about Kirkland Fine Arts Center, please visit kirklandfinearts.com. Events at Kirkland Fine Arts Center are partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency, and the Midwest Arts Council.

February 18, 20
MOLLY SCHLICH INDEPENDENT & INTERNATIONAL FILM SERIES: Faces Places (1:00pm & 4:00pm Sunday, 7:00pm Tuesday; AMC Parkway 8, 3025 Lindbergh Boulevard, SPRINGFIELD) $8 adults | $4 students with ID. All films during the MSIIFS are played at 1 & 4 PM on Sundays, and again on Tuesdays at 7PM. Single tickets are available for purchase at the door. The Film Series has been entertaining and challenging movie lovers for over 25 years by bringing independent and international films to Springfield. Proceeds from the series benefit the Michael Victor II Art Library.

February 19
Campus Visit Day (10:00am - noon & 5:00 - 7:00pm; LLCC, 5250 Shepherd Rd., SPRINGFIELD) Lincoln Land Community College invites high school students and their parents, along with others interested in returning to school.
“Campus Visit Day is a special event designed for individuals interested in starting or finishing a college degree or certificate, and families are welcome to attend,” explains LLCC President Dr. Charlotte Warren. “It is a great way to explore the academic and career programs that we offer, become more familiar with the campus and get important information on becoming a successful college student.” Both morning and evening sessions feature presentations that include comments from current students and information on how to get started with the enrollment process and pay for college. In addition, tours are offered of Menard and Sangamon halls as well as the Workforce Careers Center.
Visitors can view exhibits and speak with LLCC representatives of academic programs and student services. Those unsure of which program area to study are invited to take a short career assessment. Prospective students can apply for admission and get FAFSA assistance during the event.
Refreshments are provided and feature baked goods from LLCC Culinary Arts. Registration for Campus Visit Day is available at www.llcc.edu/campus-visit-day or by calling 217-786-2577.

February 20
“A Tribute to Our Heroes" (5:00 - 7:30pm; A. Lincoln Commons, LLCC, SPRINGFIELD) an open mic event sponsored by the LLCC Black Student Union.

February 20
A Look Inside the Toy Box (7:00 - 8:00pm; Illinois State Museum, 502 S Spring St., SPRINGFIELD) Free and open to the public. Join curator John Lustig on a walking tour of the exhibition "Toy Box Inspiration Through Play." Toys are an opportunity to play, learn and ultimately serve as a repository for memory. The history of toy manufacturing in Illinois is rooted deeply in the culture, as are artists who source toys and games as a means for their expression. The talk will highlight the intersections between creative industry and artistic expression. For additional information, please contact events@illinoisstatemuseum.org or (217) 558-6696.

February 21
ISM Brown Bag Lecture Series: "The Springfield & Central Illinois African American History Museum" (12:00 - 1:00pm; ISM Research & Collections Center, 1011 E. Ash St., SPRINGFIELD) presented by Doris J. Bailey, AAHM Museum Coordinator, and Nell Clay, AAHM Museum Board Member | This program will focus on African American historical pioneers and figures from Central Illinois and the activities and exhibits that have helped to tell the authentic stories told at the Springfield & Central Illinois African American History Museum. Doris Bailey will talk about the history of the Museum and Pioneer William “Billy the Barber,” his grandson George Richardson (falsely accused in 1908 Race Riot), and his great-grandson Major Otis B. Duncan (highest ranking African American soldier during World War I). Nell Clay will discuss the many activities and exhibits presented by the Museum; especially their newest exhibit on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The King Exhibit commemorates the 50th anniversary of his assassination on April 4, 1968.
Bring your lunch and join us for a different speaker and topic on the third Wednesday of each month. Brown Bag Lectures are held at the ISM Research & Collections Center at 1011 E. Ash St. in Springfield.* For additional information, please contact events@illinoisstatemuseum.org or (217) 558-6696 or (217) 785-0037.
*The Collections Center cannot currently be reached from Ash St. due to construction. You can access the facility's entrance on 10 1/2 St. from Laurel St.

February 21
SCHEELS TaylorMade Golf Custom Fitting Day (2:00 - 7:00pm; SCHEELS Golf Shop, 3801 S. MacArthur Blvd, SPRINGFIELD) All ages welcome. Pre-registration is recommended. Call SCHEELS Event Office to register: 217.726.6330
Get the Perfect “Fit” at the SCHEELS TaylorMade Golf Fitting Event. Join SCHEELS Experts and TaylorMade Representative for a custom club fitting. See what’s NEW with TaylorMade Golf for 2018!

February 21
"Let's Party!" Luncheon (11:00am - 12:45pm; The Northfield Conference Center, 3280 Northfield Dr., SPRINGFIELD) Special Feature: 'Tea for Two -- or More' by Dona Wedle of Trevelin' Teacups LLC will do a presentation on the history of tea from its origina in China to the Victorian era when tea became more popular. She will tell us how "tea time" was an important aspect of daily life.
Special Speaker: 'It's a Block Party!' by Lori Boruff from Aledo, IL. She meets women at the corner of Worry and Wonderful for a humorous and revealing walk down Worry Lane; but that is not their destination. Lori is like a GPS guiding women from "worry" to "a forever wonderful!"
Invite a friend, she'll be glad you did! Reservations and cancellations are essential by Friday, February 16. Call Judy at 217-303-9768 or email jluttrellfirst@gmail.com

February 22
Take Down Heart Disease (6:00 - 8:00pm; Brick House Bar and Grill, 920 W. Lincoln Ave., CHARLESTON) Enjoy a free men's-only event with keynote speaker Mark Briggs. From law enforcement to military police, Briggs was a founding coach for Beachbody and appears in numerous Tony Horton fitness videos. Men can also learn about the latest in cardiac research and other ways to improve their overall health. Hosted by Sarah Bush Lincoln. To reserve a seat call 217 258-2420. For more information call Chris Kessler - 217 821-0426.

February 22
“Through a Different Lens: Cultural Perspectives through Film” (6:00 - 9:00pm; LLCC, SPRINGFIELD) The Lincoln Land Community College Arts and Humanities Department invites the public to a free film and discussion series this spring entitled, “Through a Different Lens: Cultural Perspectives through Film.” The first film showing will be Feb. 22: “Masaan” (2015) – Set in the holy city of Varanasi, this film tells a story of four lives that intersect along the Ganges — a low caste boy hopelessly in love, a daughter ridden with guilt, a hapless father with fading morality and a spirited child yearning for a family, longing to escape the moral constructs of a small town. Masaan means “crematorium,” symbolically significant as the sacred waters of the Ganges witness the cycle of death and rebirth.
The film series will be held on select Thursday evenings from 6-9 p.m. in the Trutter Center on the LLCC Springfield campus, hosted by Ashley Green and Paul Van Heuklom, professors of English and Joseph Hoff, professor of Spanish. In addition, the Trutter Museum will have culturally relevant artifacts from the Trutter collection on display in the reception area. Film series attendees are encouraged to come early to enjoy the art and history prior to the film showings.

February 23
“Work as Worship Retreat” (7:30am - 2:30pm; . Savoy United Methodist Church, 3002 W. Old Church Rd., CHAMPAIGN) Sign up at: workasworshipretreat.org
God has a purpose for us on this earth. We spend most of our waking hours at work, so we need a plan for putting our faith into action. Savoy United Methodist is hosting the “Work as Worship Retreat” simulcast on February 23. This is Paul Taylor, your host. We promise a great meal and great company for just 25 bucks. We have a fantastic lineup of speakers including Patrick Lencioni, Joel Manby and Phil Vischer. Sign up at Workasworshipretreat.org. Enter Savoy in the search box. Hope to see you there.

February 23
Firefighters Fish Fry (5:00 - 7:30pm; Firefighter's Postal Lake Club, 940 W Lake Dr., SPRINGFIELD) Walleye Dinner (fried) - All you can eat is dine in only: $8 | Walleye Dinner Ticket 2016 - 6 walleye dinners anytime during lent: $40 | Orange Roughy Fillet Dinner - cooked to order: $9 | Orange Roughy/Shrip Combo - cooked to order: $12 | Shrimp dinner - cooked to order - cajun or battered: $9 | Kid's Walleye dinner: $4 | Kid's chicken tenders: $4 | Hot dog dinner: $4
Dinners include choice of baked potato or fries with cole slaw, dessert & coffee.

February 23
A Tribute to the great Nina Simone featuring song stylist Ramona Renea (7:30pm; Perkinson Music Center, Kaeuper Hall, DECATUR) Ramona Renea's spectacular vocal talents emerged naturally while singing in a musical family. Renea has performed nationally and internationally for such events and ensembles as Amen! A Gospel Celebration with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, the Joy of Jazz Festival in Johannesburg, South Africa, the first ever Capital Jazz Cruise, for the legendary Muhammad Ali's Tribute Celebration in Louisville, Ky., the BET ON JAZZ Music Festival in Durban, South Africa, and many more. For more information about Millikin's celebration of Black History Month, please contact Tonya Hines, assistant director of inclusion and student engagement and director of the Long-Vanderburg Scholars Program, at thines@millikin.edu.

February 23
UNTITLED: Invasion of the Arts (Orpheum Theatre, 346 N Neil St, CHAMPAIGN) Guests of this late-night sci-fi themed event can indulge in retro snacks including fondue and a 50s diner slider bar, complimentary co*cktail bar, and specialty coffee drinks, all from Michaels’ Catering. An interactive, custom screen-printed t-shirt sale from Weiskamp Screen Printing will be on hand for guests to select from unique designs to support art and creativity in Champaign County. Additional fundraising opportunities include a mobile escape room by CU Adventures in Time and Space, an original art sale featuring local artists, interactive wall display, and a Whiskey-Wine Wall raffle!
You can also bid on amazing silent auction items including Disney World passes, St. Louis and Chicago overnight packages, dinner for a year from Zybell House, Krannert Center flex package, local craft beer package, Virginia Theatre movie passes, and much much more!Anyone looking to attend the event can purchase tickets by visiting 40north.org/tickets or by contacting 40 North at 217-351-9841. Tickets in advance are $45 per person, $80 per couple, or can be purchased day-of at the door for $50 per person.

February 23
Trivia (7:00pm; Parkway Christian Church, 2700 Lindbergh Blvd., SPRINGFIELD) There will be Cash prizes, Silent Auction, Raffle and refreshments. No Alcohol. $10.00 per person. For information call 815-762-5543.

February 23
Little Flower Men's Club 21st Annual Lenten Fish Frys (5:00 - 7:30pm; Little Flower Parish Center/Gym, 900 E. Stevenson Dr., SPRINGFIELD) Every Friday in Lent except Good Friday. $8 Adults/ $4 kids
Includes Springfield's only fish taco bar | Soft serve Ice cream and fresh-made Donuts available for purchase. More details: http://lfmc.little-flower.org

February 23
Lenten Fish Fry (4:30 - 7:00pm; Williamsville United Methodist Church, 128 E. Jones St., WILLIAMSVILLE) Dinner Includes (all you can eat): Walleye | Baked Potato or Potato Salad | Cole Slaw | Applesauce | Dessert | Drink
COST: Adults—$8.00 | Children 12 & under—$4.00 | Hot Dog Dinner—$3.00 (Future dates: March 9, 23)

February 23
Homemade Soup & Salad Fundraiser (5:30 - 7:00pm; Trinity Nazarene church, 1108 Daniel, SPRINGFIELD) Every Friday during the month of February, Trinity Nazarene Church will be hosting the benefit. A choice of 2 homemade soups, fresh homemade salad (varies each week), dessert, coffee or water. All this for only $5 | Children under 12 eat free. All proceeds go to Children's Ministry. Any questions, please contact buzymillie2@yahoo.com

February 23
LLCC Chemistry Club Trivia Night (7:00-9:30 pm; Student Union, LLCC, 5250 Shepherd Road, SPRINGFIELD) The Lincoln Land Community College Chemistry Club will host a trivia night in the student union, located in the lower level of Menard Hall on LLCC’s main campus. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Funds raised at the event will help support club activities and events, such as trips to science labs and museums. Trivia topics will include general science, history, English and more. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place winners. Participants can sign up as part of a team or join a team when they arrive. Each team can have up to 10 members. The cost is $10 per person, payable at the event by cash or check made out to LLCC. Reservations are being taken online at www.llcc.edu/chemistry-club. The LLCC Chemistry Club is an official student chapter of the American Chemical Society. The club has hosted the popular Halloween “Haunted Lab” for area children for the past five years and regularly presents chemistry demonstrations in local elementary and middle schools and at campus events. More information is available at 786-2383 or jennifer.ramm@llcc.edu.

February 23, 24
Rock Me Amadeus (7:30pm; First Presbyterian Church, SPRINGFIELD & Second Presbyterian Church, SPRINGFIELD) Friday, join us after the concert for a post-concert chat with Music Director Ken Lam and Cellist Ruth Marshall. Saturday, experience it all by joining the Illinois Symphony Guild of Bloomington-Normal for a special pre-concert dinner and then join us after the concert for a post-concert chat with Music Director Ken Lam and Cellist Ruth Marshall. Go to ilsymphony.org to find out how you can make your reservation for dinner. Tickets may be purchased in Springfield through the Sangamon Auditorium Ticket Office at (217) 206-6160 and in Bloomington through the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts Ticket Office at (309) 434-2777. Tickets may also be purchased the night of the performance. General admission is $20. Student tickets available for $5 (6 years +). Senior discounts are also available. The ISO is celebrating 25 years of LIVE music by offering a special Buy One Ticket, Get one Ticket 25% OFF. (Special offer available by phone or in person ONLY. Senior, group, musician, and student priced tickets do not qualify for this special offer.) Tickets prices do not include auditorium processing and/or ticketing fees. Additional information about the Illinois Symphony Orchestra is available at www.ilsymphony.org.

February 23, 24, 25
2018 Home Expo (Bank of Springfield Center, 1 Convention Center Plaza, SPRINGFIELD) Visit the 2018 Home Expo at the Bank of Springfield Center, brought to you by the Springfield Area Home Builders Association! Come learn about the latest trends in home building and remodeling from over 120 local vendors! Friday, February 23 - 3-8pm | Saturday, February 24 - 9am-6pm | Sunday, February 25 - 10am-5pm
Industries represented include: builders/remodelers, flooring, windows, doors, garages, roofing/siding, home furnishings and many more! Admission is $6. Children 12 and under free. Senior Day - Friday, February 23rd; Visitors 65 and older receive $1 off admission. Hero's Day - Saturday, February 24th; Firefighters, police officers and military service personnel receive $1 off admission. Educator's Day - Sunday, February 25th; All educators receive $1 off admission.

February 24
Owl Prowl for Kids (6:00 - 8:00pm; Anita Purves Nature Center, 1505 N Broadway Ave, URBANA) Age 6-15 (Parents are free with a registered child) This program is a special opportunity for kids to explore Busey Woods at night in search of wild owls. We will start with a short presentation indoors then hit the trails! After the hike, meet the nature center’s resident screech owls, dissect an owl pellet, and warm up with hot cocoa. Dress for wet, cold and slippery conditions. Hikes are on non-paved or boardwalk trails–please no strollers. Fees for this hike support the care of the nature center’s education animals. Up to two adults may attend for free with each registered child. A minimum of one adult is required for every three children.
EB Cost | Deadline Cost | Deadline Code
$9R/$14NR |Feb 10 $11R/$17NR | Feb 17 xxxx

February 24
"Big Blue Revue" (6:30pm; Bob and Debi Johnston Banquet Rooms on the 3rd floor of the University Commons, Milikin, DECATUR) The Big Blue Revue, a benefit variety show to support Millikin's new Center for Theatre and Dance, was created by Millikin student Katherine Viviano, a senior musical theatre major from Overland Park, Kan., as part of her James Millikin Scholar (JMS) senior project. The variety show will feature comedy, singing, dancing and more, all performed by Millikin alumni, faculty and current students, with all proceeds going to support the Center for Theatre and Dance. General admission tickets for Big Blue Revue are $15. VIP tickets are $50 per person or $400 per table of 10, which includes reserved seats, table service and drinks. For more information about the event, visit millikin.edu/mevents/big-blue-revue.

February 24
Beef and Noodle Dinner (4:00pm - 6:30pm; Riverton United Methodist Church, 429 E. Lincoln, RIVERTON) You can eat in or carry out a meal for $8.00. Ticket price includes a hearty serving of Beef and Noodles, Green Beans, Biscuit, Dessert and Drink. Family-sized servings of Beef and Noodles are also available to carry out (while supplies last) for $10. For more information, contact the church at 629-9721.

February 24
Holy Dormition Orthodox Parish LUNCH TO GO (11:00am - 3:00pm; 300 N 4th St., BENLD) Dinners $9: Cabbage roll or beef stroganoff servied with two sides. Boscht (Russian soup), Nut rolls or poppy seed rolls (frozen, ready-to-cook), stuffed crepe (Russian Blinchikie), Perogies (Varenikie), & Pelmenie. If you would like to pre-order anything please call or text Debbie at 217-313-6522 or Tatyana at 217-720-5099

February 24
Cinderella: A Children's Ballet (1:00pm, 3:00pm, 6:00pm; Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. 6th St., SPRINGFIELD) www.sypg.org

February 24
12th annual Springfield Area Fifth Grade Rube Goldberg Competition (9:00am - 3:00pm; lower level of Menard Hall on the LLCC-Springfield campus, 5250 Shepherd Road, SPRINGFIELD) A Rube Goldberg device, such as the board game “Mousetrap,” is an outlandish machine designed to complete a certain task through a number of complex steps. Area fifth graders are currently developing their own unique Rube Goldberg devices for this year’s competition. They receive assistance from engineer volunteers, coordinated by the area Engineer in the Classroom Board. The engineer volunteers visit classes and provide instruction on machines and engineering in general, along with suggestions for their “secret” Rube Goldberg.
The purpose of this event is to introduce children to the idea of pursuing a career in engineering or closely related field. It is the only Rube Goldberg program in the nation specifically aimed at elementary age school children.
This year, 12 teams are participating from Dubois Elementary, Fairview Elementary, Graham Elementary, Our Savior Lutheran, Owen Marsh Elementary, Rochester Intermediate, Springfield Christian and Trinity Lutheran-Springfield.
Last year’s task entailed building a Rube Goldberg that would fill a cereal bowl. Teresa Wolter’s fifth grade class from Springfield Christian, with engineer volunteers Adam Pallai from Martin Engineering and Al-Barrae Shebib from the Illinois Department of Transportation, took home the top prize. This year’s competition involves building a Rube Goldberg that will “have one object orbit another object at least three times.”

February 24
Pet Adoption (12:00pm - 4:00pm; PetSmart, 1570 W US Highway 50, O'FALLON) Benld Adopt-A-Pet, a non-profit, no-kill animal shelter, will hold a Pet Adoption. All of our pets are spayed/neutered, micro-chipped and up to date on shots. For more information call 217.835.2538 or visit our website at www.benldadoptapet.org.

February 24
Cosmic Bingo (6:00pm; Knights of Columbus Hall, 217 Limi St., LINCOLN) Doors open at 6:00pm, Bingo starts at 7:00pm. $20 advance, $25 at the door. Price includes 6 bingo cards, glow hat & glow dauber. ($5 per additional 6 cards). 50/50 Drawing and cash bar. Bring your own food/snacks. Questions: Jennifer Craig at 217-871-9820

February 24
Gardening Insights 2018: A Macon County Master Gardener Event (9:00am - 4:00pm; Richland Community College, 1 College Park, DECATUR) Gardening Insights is day about all things horticulture and gardening. Whether you are just starting to dabble in gardening or are an experienced gardener, we have something for you! Join the Macon County Master Gardeners for a unique and fun day of horticulture programs. With 13 classes to choose from, beginning and expert gardeners will find topics of interest.
Class topics include: Farm to Table | Arranging with Fresh Cut Flowers | Native Illinois Shrubs for the Urban Landscape | Freezing and Drying Safely | Water Gardens | Beneficial Insects and Bio Pesticides | Edible Flowers | Tree Care and Urban Soils | Secrets of Growing Great Tomatoes | Create a Fairy Jar Glow | Lantern | Kokedama String Gardening | Urban Vegetable Gardening | Choosing the Perfect Tree
Cost is $30 and lunch is included. Coffee and tea will be provided. Some classes have an additional fee. Register by February 20 at go.illinois.edu/dmp or call 217.877.6042 | vasthis@illinois.edu

February 24
All Out A Cappella (5:00pm & 8:00pm; Unity High School, Polly Anderson Auditorium, 1127 County Rd 800, TOLONO) All Out A Cappella is the biggest a cappella event in downstate Illinois featuring six top contemporary a cappella groups: No Comment A Cappella, The Xtension Chords, Illinois Rip Chords and The Other Guysfrom the University of Illinois; On the Brink of Normal Illinois State University; Blue Harmony MU from Millikin University; and Surreal Soundfrom Unity High School. New for this year's concert is reserved seating for both shows! Advance tickets: $15/adults and $10/students.
Order online by clicking this link: http://unitymusicboosters.seatyourself.biz/
Tickets also available at Unity High School and Junior High: at the door (if available): $18/adults and $13/students
Sponsored by Unity Music Boosters with proceeds going toward enhancing music in Unit 7 schools. Additional questions: 217-239-9995.

February 24
Researching your Family Tree (11:00am; Westville Public Library, 233 S. State Street, WESTVILLE) Please join the Westville Library as they host the Illiana Genealogical and Historical Society in presenting Researching your Family Tree. It will be held Saturday, February 24 at 10 AM. Everyone is invited to attend from the beginners to the more experienced. Bring your questions. Please register for this event by calling the Westville Library at 267-3170.

February 24
Black History Month Ebony Dance (9:00pm - 12:00am; Trutter Center, LLCC, SPRINGFIELD) The event is co-sponsored by the African-American History Month Committee and the Open Door Mentorship program.

February 24
BEST "Becoming Empowered and Successful Teens" and Parent Transition Support Group (8:00am - 12:30pm; Springfield Southeast High School, 2350 E. Ash St., SPRINGFIELD) 10th Annual Disability to POssibility, free conference. Tegister online at http://www.sps186.org. For more information, please contact Linda at SCIL, 217-523-2587

February 24
Quarter Auction Fund Raiser (5:00pm; Lincoln PArk District, 1400 Primm Rd., LINCOLN) The Quarter Auction is a cross between an auction and a raffle...it's fun for the whole family! A variety of items and services are auctioned off for 1-4 quarters per item. Auction begins at 6:00pm. Proceeds to support Jefferson Street Christian Church Haiti Mission TRip Team. Bring quarters. Concessions available. For questions of to make donations, call Cindy Bivin at 217-737-9899.

February 24
Workshops on Affordable Home Ownership (9:30am; Habitat for Humanity of Champaign County, 119 E University Ave., CHAMPAIGN)Home ownership within your grasp! Hear about affordable home ownership opportunities and down payment assistance in Champaign County. Learn how to review your credit report to determine your options. Free workshops will be held at Habitat for Humanity at 9:30 am on the following Saturdays: February 24, April 28, June 23, August 25, October 13, December 8
Call Michelle to register at 217-819-5113

February 24
35th Annual Insect Fear Film Festival Featuring Ticks (6:00pm - 12:00am; Foellinger Auditorium, 709 S. Matthews St., URBANA) The 35th Annual Insect Fear Film Festival will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2018, hosted by the Department of Entomology at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
The theme for this year’s festival is “Ticks”. These 8-legged arthropods (which are not insects, despite what some screenwriters seem to think) are convenient film antagonists that inspire fear and loathing because they feed on human blood and spread diseases, including Lyme disease. The night starts with “The Big Tick” (2006), an episode of the animated television series “Ben 10” about an enormous tick-like alien bent on destroying Earth, followed by “Bite of the Ruby Red” (1955), an episode of the television series “Soldiers of Fortune” featuring a scientist’s search for a cure for a deadly tick-borne fever in Central America. Our feature film Ticks (1993) follows a group of teenagers on a wilderness retreat that encounter super-sized ticks mutated by agricultural runoff from an illegal marijuana-growing operation. “The Big Tick” and “Bite of the Ruby Red” are family-friendly while Ticks is rated R for violence, gore, and language.
Doors open at 6 pm in Foellinger Auditorium on campus, with film introductions starting at 7:30 pm. Admission is free. We will feature a live insect petting zoo, along with live ticks to compare to the movie versions, exotic insect displays from around the world, face-painting, balloon-insects, a raffle with arthropod-themed prizes, many hands-on activities, and a display of entries from local schools for the annual IFFF art contest, with prizes to be announced at 7:00 pm. Entomologists will take over the UIUC Snapchat channel for the festival, with a filter allowing people to take a selfie with a giant tick.
We look forward to seeing you on February 24! For more information, please visit the IFFF website, our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter or contact Todd Johnson at tdjohns2@illinois.edu.
6:00 pm Doors open: Activities, displays, exhibits in Foellinger lobby | 7:00 pm Welcome, award and raffle winners, introduction to films | 7:30 pm Big Tick (23 min) | 8:00 pm Bite of the Ruby Red (30 min) | 8:30 pm Ticks (85 min)
Website: http://bit.ly/2E2fCwy

February 24, 25
LEGO Contest (1:00pm; 11:00am | Bank of Springfield Center, 1 Convention Center Plaza, SPRINGFIELD) Kids can put their LEGO building skills to the test during the LEGO Contest at the 2018 Home Expo! Registration begins 30 minutes prior to start time for ages 5-12. Participants will have 30 minutes to build, and judging will follow. LEGO kits will be provided, and prizes will be awarded in the 5-8 and 9-12 age categories.
Saturday, February 24th: Event 1 at 1pm | Event 2 at 4pm
Sunday, February 25th: Event 3 at 11am | Event 4 at 3pm
Children under 12 are free to attend the Home Expo. Adults must pay for entrance into the Home Expo and provide adult supervision during the LEGO contest. Register today by contacting the Springfield Area Home Builders Association office at (217) 698-4941.

February 25
Adopt-a-Pet (12:00 - 4:00pm; PetSmart, 3183 S. Veterans Pkwy; SPRINGFIELD) Benld Adopt-A-Pet, a non-profit, no-kill animal shelter, will hold a Pet Adoption. All of our pets are spayed/neutered, micro-chipped and up to date on shots. For more information call 217.835.2538 or visit our website at www.benldadoptapet.org .

February 25
Fight For Air Climb Springfield (8:00am - 1:00pm; Wyndham Springfield City Centre, 700 E Adams St., SPRINGFIELD)
Registration fee $25 with a Fundraising Minimum: $100. Register before January 13 and save $10!
Join us for the 2018 Fight For Air Climb sponsored by CEFCU at the Wyndham Springfield City Centre on Sunday, February 25, 2018! The Climb is a unique athletic and fundraising challenge where participants stair climb 532 steps to the top of the tallest building in Springfield. The Climb is open to all ages and fitness levels. Register as a team of friends, family and co-workers or as an individual climber. Your participation helps the American Lung Association raise life-saving funds to help those affected by lung disease and lung cancer.
Step up to the challenge and register for the climb of your life today at www.ClimbWyndham.org! Contact us with any questions, 217-787-5864 or EventsIL@Lung.org.

February 25
Honor Flight: Soup Supper and Dessert [silent] auction (4:00 - 6:30pm; Winchester American Legion, 24 S. Hill, WINCHESTER) Hosted by NEighborhood Guys and Gals 4-H Club. All proceeds will be donated to Great Rivers and Land of Lincoln Honor Flights. Menu: Potato Soup, Chicken Noodle Soup, Chili, Hot Dogs, PB&J Sandwiches, Tea, Coffee, Water. Free will donation. Lots of homemade desserts will be available to bid on. For more info: Pam Hembrough at 217-473-6427

February 25, 27
MOLLY SCHLICH INDEPENDENT & INTERNATIONAL FILM SERIES: Frantz (1:00pm & 4:00pm Sunday, 7:00pm Tuesday; AMC Parkway 8, 3025 Lindbergh Boulevard, SPRINGFIELD) $8 adults | $4 students with ID. All films during the MSIIFS are played at 1 & 4 PM on Sundays, and again on Tuesdays at 7PM. Single tickets are available for purchase at the door. The Film Series has been entertaining and challenging movie lovers for over 25 years by bringing independent and international films to Springfield. Proceeds from the series benefit the Michael Victor II Art Library.

February 27
Sangamon Valley Youth Symphony presents our Winter Concert (7:00pm; the Hoogland Center for the Arts, SPRINGFIELD) Our Sinfonia Orchestra brings to the stage one of Bach’s most well-known and beloved pieces, “Brandenburg Concerto No. 5.” Our Youth Symphony will present Bizet’s well-known “Carmen Suite No. 2,” as well selections from “Peer Gynt” and Sibelius’ “Belshazzar’s Feast.” We hope you can be a part of this fantastic event! Admission to the concert is $10 for adults, $5 for students, and free to children aged 12 and under. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.hcfta.org or by calling 217-523-2787.

February 28
African-American Food and Vendor Day (10:00am - 2:00pm; A. Lincoln Commons, LLCC, SPRINGFIELD) The event features free samples of African-American food, displays exhibiting the wares of African-American entrepreneurs and “Saxophone and African-American Poetry Improvisations” performed by LLCC retired business law professor and jazz musician Virgil Rhodes, J.D.