EVENTS: November 2015 (2024)

If you would like to have any events added to the Calendar, please email your request, along with event details (including date, time, a brief description and public contact information) to Events@wics.com.

Nov 1
Archaeological Institute of America Lecture Series (3:00pm; Spurlock Museum, 600 S Gregory St, URBANA) "Stories of Stuff from Pompeii" by Ted Pena These events are organized by the Central Illinois Society of the Archaeological Institute of America and hosted by the Spurlock Museum. Visit www.archaeological.org/societies/ centralillinoisurbana or contact Jane Goldberg at jgoldber@illinois.edu for more information. All lectures are located in the Knight Auditorium.

Nov 1
Baked Turkey Dinner (3:00 - 6:30pm; MORRISONVILLE) St. Maurice Catholic Church in Morrisonville, IL will hold its annual Baked Turkey Dinner on Sunday November 1, 2015 in the Knights of Columbus Hall. Serving will be held from 3:00pm to 6:30pm. The menu consists of Baked Turkey, Dressing, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Green Beans, Cole Slaw, Cranberry Salad, Cake and Homemade Ice Cream, Tea, Coffee and Water. The cost is $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for children. The public is cordially invited. Carry-outs available. Any questions may be made to the following person: Marietta Dunkirk 217.526.4426

Nov 1
2015 GMIS Illinois Annual Networking Symposium and Training (GIANTS) (5:00pm; NORMAL) We are pleased and excited to invite you to participate in the 15th Annual. This year the conference will begin on Sunday evening, November 1, with a Welcome Reception and conclude Wednesday at noon, following our wrap-up presentation. As in past year,s you will have ample opportunities to network with your colleagues and visit with state- of-the-art IT vendors. Submit your registration today! Registration Rates: GMIS Illinois Member Registration 250.00 GMIS Illinois Secondary Member Registration 200.00 One Day GMIS Illinois Member Registration 100.00 Speaker Registration Complimentary Business Attendee (Reserved for Current Corporate Members Only) Complimentary GMIS Illinois Non-Member Registration (Government Employees Only) 800.00
Hotel Information: Bloomington-Normal Marriott Hotel & Conference Center 201 Broadway Avenue Normal, Illinois 61761 MAP Room Rate: $128 per night, plus 12% tax Reservations: Please call 1-888-236-2427 and reference our group information, GMIS Illinois Annual Symposium.
Reservations Deadline: October 10, 2015
Billing Information: If you plan to travel without the credit card that was used to book your room, please make sure to have your purchasing department process the authorization form available here.
How to Attend on a Limited Budget: We know public sector budgets are stretched, and with that in mind, this year's conference affords you numerous cost effective options for attending. Here are several ideas to minimize the cost of attending this year's conference: First time member agencies of GMIS Illinois can apply for a $250 Scholarship to cover the conference registration or apply to housing costs within their first year of membership. (This is for new agency members only and not agencies where the membership has lapsed. Agencies that have had budget issues can apply for a scholarship of $250. Only one scholarship is available to any single agency.) Bring two or more people from your agency. First member registration is $250, second and subsequent member registrations are only $200 each. Sign up for a One Day Registration for only $100, eliminating the rooming cost entirely. For just $100 you get up to five educational sessions, continental breakfast, lunch, and breaks. On Tuesday, you can also participate in the Vendor Appreciation Reception. For additional information, please visit the GMIS Illinois website at www.gmisillinois.org.

Nov 1
Informal Symphony of the Cells Workshop (2:00pm, Fitzjarrald Home, 170 HillCrest Blvd. DECATUR, IL) Symphony of the Cells is an easy hands-on technique for applying essential oils. Eleven protocols provide support to a variety of body systems. Maura Marksteiner will be sharing the hand movements as well as information shared by Boyd Truman at his most recent St. Louis training. Workshop price includes SOC booklet and Body Systems chart and snacks. PLEASE NOTE: -SOC is NOT a massage. -Participation in this workshop does NOT lead to certification. This is an informal training only. Maura is NOT certified in SOC. She is sharing information she learned after the workshop that was held in St. Louis from a paticipant in the workshop. -No oils will be provided and attendees will not need to bring their own as we will be demonstrating ONLY. No direct training will be given to participants.

Nov 1
Calligraphy Workshop with Shozo Sato: Chinese Ideograms (2:00pm;2000 S. Lincoln Ave, URBANA)
Join Professor Emeritus Shozo Sato for a Sunday afternoon calligraphy class based on Chinese ideograms. This will be a hands-on class and is open to beginners. Space is limited to fifteen students. All materials will be supplied.

Throttle Time (Diesel) (8:30am; MONTICELLO) Ever wanted to operate a diesel locomotive? Our Throttle Time program lets you try your hand at being a locomotive engineer using a vintage diesel locomotive. MRM's Throttle Time sessions are offered on the last weekend in April, the first weekend of November, and on most Saturdays between May and October.The Throttle Time participant will first spend 45 minutes observing and learning how to operate one of the Museum's diesel locomotives. The Throttle Time participant will then spend 30 minutes at the throttle of the locomotive on the Museum's main line, under the supervision of a Museum engineer. (The locomotive used for the sessions will be one of: Canadian National FPA-4 #6789 built in 1959. Illinois Central GP11 #8733 rebuilt in 1980 from a GP9 originally delivered in 1958. Milwaukee Road NW-2 #1649 built in 1947. Wabash F7 #1189 built in 1953.)
Equipment used is always subject to change due to availability.In order to participate in Throttle Time, you must be at least 18 years old, physically able to climb up to and enter the locomotive cab, and able to operate the locomotive controls.Happy railroading!
LOCATION: Monticello Railway Museum; 992 Iron Horse Place, Monticello, IL
For additional information, contact John Downing by email at throttle.time@mrym.org or by phone at (217) 762-9357.

Nov 1
Christ. Community. Coffee. (9:00am - 10:00am; SPRINGFIELD) A Worship Service with a Unique Flavor, For whoever you are and wherever you're at in life: the new worship experience at Springfield First starting Sunday, October 25, at 9:00am in the Community Life Center (2941 South Koke Mill Road in Springfield) is for you. In addition to getting to know more about Jesus, meeting others, and having some great coffee, the worship experience will also lead you to grow, engage, and make a difference in the world. So, if you have been looking for something but not sure what, if you have lots of questions and need some answers, if you want to make a difference, this experience is just what you need. Feel free to bring children, as Springfield First has an incredible children's program available. More information: Springfieldfirst.org or call (217)793-9760

Nov 3
Yukatas and Matcha Tea for University of Illinois Students: Join us for a chance to be dressed in a traditional Japanese Yukata. Participants will also learn about the differences between kimono and yukata, get etiquette tips for wearing a yukata, and enjoy a bowl of freshly whisked matcha tea with a Japanese sweet. Participants are limited to 12 and must be current University of Illinois students.
LOCATION: Japan House, 2000 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL

Nov 3, 5, 7
Brunch - A Welcome Option (time varies by date; 1001 Ford Avenue, EFFINGHAM) Enjoy a demonstration class in our beautiful new Education Center kitchen. Learn how to prepare the recipes, taste the flavorful dishes and take home a product to make the recipe at home. *Insta-Bake Sausage Quiche *Blueberry Almond Crumb Muffins *Almond Meal Pancakes *Mini Sausage Bites
November 3rd - Tuesday 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM November 5th - Thursday 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM November 7th - Saturday 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Not only will we send you home with some great knowledge and recipes, but also with one of the main Hodgson Mill Products used in the recipes. FAQsCan I register in person? Sure! Visit us at The Mill during business hours, 9am-5pm Mon-Fri or 9am-3pm Sat. (Closed Sunday.) Bonus: No payment processing fee if you register in person! Online registration will end 48 hours before class starts, but please check with us and register in person for any remaining space!
Can I reserve my space in the class and pay when I get there? Sorry, all classes are first come, first serve. We can't guarantee you a spot if you haven't registered.
Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event? This class is recommended for ages 18 and up. What is the refund policy? Refunds are available as long as you cancel 24 hours before the event begins. We apologize, but we can't refund after the 24-hour mark. We'll do our best to work with you and get you into another class though!
What are my transport/parking options getting to the event? Plenty of parking in our lot!
Where can I contact the organizer with any questions? For any questions re classes, please call us at 217-347-MILL (6455).

Nov 2, 4, 9
CSE Simulink Workshop (12:00 - 2:00pm; CHAMPAIGN) A Short Course for Engineers Simulink is a popular and powerful systems language developed by Mathworks. It also features tight integration with MATLAB. This short course is designed to introduce you to the fundamentals of the interface and a variety of modeling techniques through engineering exercises and physical models. This course will be offered in November 2015 by Computational Science and Engineering for a fee of $50, intended to recover costs of course development and delivery. Registration will be handled via Eventbrite. The course will consist of four workshops on November 2, 4, 9, and 11 from noon-2 pm in 1001 MEL.
fightingillini.collegesports.com/ (217) 333 - 3630
LOCATION: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Memorial Stadium (200 E. Florida Ave., Champaign, IL)

Nov 4
Fall Education Job Fair: Fall Education Job Fair is happening on 04 Nov 2015 at Eastern Illinois University Charleston, (600 Lincoln Avenue). It's premier event in Business Services industry. Book a stall at 10times.com! All day event.

Nov 5
ECSE/Pre-K Teacher Day (9:00 AM) Trans-Disciplinary Play Based Assessment: ECO Outcomes: LRE Codes: IEP Goal Writing Data Please bring 1 activity you use in you classroom to share with the group. Lunch is on your own.
LOCATION: 105 East Hamilton Rd., Bloomington, IL

Nov 5
Volusia County Fair at Volusia County Fairgrounds De Land, Illinois. It's a premier event in Household Consumables industry. Book a stall at 10times.com! All day event.

Nov 5
C-U Fold and Roots Festival (5:00 PM) The Champaign-Urbana Folk and Roots Festival is an all-volunteer-run, grassroots festival that brings together national, regional and local artists and folk organizations for over 80 high-quality folk performances and participatory activities throughout downtown Urbana. The festival includes performances, dances, instructional sessions, jams, song-circles, family activities, storytelling, instrument-making and much, much more! The festival has a particular interest in evolving and unique forms of folk music and art, especially forms that break down barriers between audience and performers, while also providing the occasion to preserve local traditions and histories.
LOCATION: Urbana Landmark Hotel (210 South Race Street Urbana IL 61801) TICKET PRICE: $35.00

Nov 5
Cedric Watson, Turino's Cornstalkers Cajun Band (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM) One of the most noted young talents to emerge in Cajun or Creole music in the past few years, Cedric Watson is a fiddler, vocalist, accordionist and songwriter of seemingly unlimited potential. LOCATION: Krannert Center for the Performing Arts (500 S. Goodwin Ave. Urbana, IL 61801) CONTACT: (217)333-6700 or www.krannertcenter.com TICKET PRICE: FREE

Nov 6
36th Annual Chris Cringle Arts and Crafts Show (3:00 PM - 9:00 PM; CHAMPAIGN) The Illinois Heartland Decorative Artists presents The 36th Annual Chris Cringle Arts & Crafts Show on November 6 & 7, 2015 (Friday 3-9pm Saturday 9am-5pm) It will be at Fluid Events Center 601 N. Country Fair Drive, Champaign, IL. The Chris Cringle show is one of the largest craft shows in central Illinois! There will be over 85 vendors with handcrafted items all on one level. $5 admission, children 12 & under free, strollers allowed. Proceeds from our show support our many projects, including art student scholarships, Memorial 4-H Camp, Decorative Arts Collections, memory boxes for hospitals, sponsoring families through the Department of Children and Family Services and area food banks. Visit our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ChrisCringleIl?ref=hl or website: www.ihda.us

Nov 6
CSD Speaker Paul Roumeliotis (12:00 PM; NORMAL) The CSD Department and the Stuttering SIG of NSSHLA are sponsoring Paul Roumeliotis, a web producer/writer at Comcast SportsNet Chicago and chapter leader of the Chicago West NSA Chapter. If you will need special accommodation, please contact the event sponsor. LOCATION: Illinois State Univeristy (North and School Streets in Normal, IL 61761)

Nov 6
Informal Physics Seminar Series: Prof. Jamie Wieland (12:00 PM; NORMAL) Prof. Jamie Wieland (Technology) presents "Monte Carlo simulations, experiments, and analysis" If you will need special accommodation, please contact the event sponsor.LOCATION: Illinois State University (North and School Street in Normal, IL 61761)

Nov 6
Mindful Eating Presentation (12:00 PM; NORMAL) Mindfulness is focusing your attention only on the present, experiencing thoughts, feelings, and sensations while not judging them. Justine Seymour, B.S., staff member with Health Promotion and Wellness, will guide you through how to apply this concept to food and eating as well as review the benefits of mindful eating and how to practice this daily. Contact Shanna McDaniels at slcasey@ilstu.edu or (217)438-WELL (9355) to reserve your space. If you will need special accommodation, please contact the event sponsor. LOCATION: Illinois State University (North and School Street in Normal, IL 61761)

Nov 6
6th Annual Mystery Dinner (6:00 PM; BLOOMINGTON) Attention all spies and villains! His name is Bond, and he's on a mission to save the world from another evil mastermind. Come as yourself or your own secret identity for a night of comedy that's guaranteed to be shaken, not stirred. LOCATION: Lakeside Country Club (1201 Croxton Ave., Bloomington, IL 61701) TICKET PRICE: FREE

Nov 6
Thunder Funder (6:30 PM; BLOOMINGTON) With Jury's Out, Leah Marlene, this is the 6th annual Bloomington Youth Hockey, Inc. fundraising event. Each year our organization coordinates this event to support our over 120 local youth hockey players. Bloomington Youth Hockey, Inc. (BYHI) sponsors travel hockey programs at all levels, including Mite, Squirt, Peewee and Bantam, spanning ages 6 to 15. These young athletes and the many volunteers who operate, coach and coordinate the organization spend countless hours and significant resources providing an incredible travel hockey experience for local kids and the community. This is your chance to not only support a great youth sports organization but to have an incredible evening of entertainment, along with chances to win prizes via Raffle, Live Auction and Silent Auction. For more information visit, www.bloomingtonyouthhockey.com LOCATION: The Castle Theatre (209 E. Washington Street Unit One, Bloomington, IL 61701) TICKET PRICE: $25.00

Nov 7
Prairie Central High School Event Day: Join Prairie Central High School for a day of events! LOCATION: Barnes & Noble Booksellers (1701 E. Empire in Bloomington, IL 61701)

Nov 7
Antique & Craft Show at IWHS (9:00 AM; GILMAN) Dozens of vendors of antiques and crafts in the IWHS Gym. Live music, tasty concessions and free admission! Sixth annual event. Proceeds benefit the Iroquois West Music Boosters. Support Band & Chorus in our schools! LOCATION: Iroquois West High School (529 E. Second St in Gilman, IL 60938)

Nov 7
Regional Office of Education Bookfair (9:00 AM; CHAMPAIGN) Join us as we celebrate the Regional Office of Education for their bookfair! Events will be held throughout the day, along with bookmark making, storytime and face painting.
LOCATION: Barnes & Noble Booksellers-Champaign (65 East Market View Drive in Champaign, IL 61820)

Nov 7
Catholic Women United Annual Fall Bazaar (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM; PAWNEE) at KC Hall on the square in Pawnee, IL. Baked Goods, Luncheon, Raffle and Vendors. LOCATION: KC Hall on the square in Pawnee, IL 62558.

Nov 7
Heavenly Handcraft Fair and Bake Sale (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM; DANVILLE) This bazaar has a large variety of handcrafted Christmas decorations featuring lots of snowmen, bears, painted items, wreaths, gift items and much more. Also a great selection of baked goodies. Saturday, November 7, 2015 9:00a.m. till 1:00p.m. Bethel Lutheran Church 901 W. Fairchild St., Danville, IL Held in church basem*nt, please use East entrance.

Nov 7
Pet Adoption (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM; SPRINGFIELD) Benld Adopt-A-Pet, a non-profit, no-kill animal shelter, will hold a Pet Adoption at Petco, 2721 S Veterans Parkway in Springfield, from 12 noon to 4 p.m.,, Saturday, November 7th. All cats and dogs are spayed/neutered, micro-chipped and up to date on shots. For more information please call 217.835.2538 or visit our website at www.benldadoptapet.org .

Nov 7
Jupiter String Quartet (2:00 PM; CHAMPAIGN) Winner of the prestigious Cleveland Quartet Award, this engaging young Boston based quartet demonstrate a maturity and unity well beyond their years. LOCATION: Krannert Art Museum (500 E. Peabody Dr in Champaign, IL 61820) CONTACT: (217)333-1861 or www.kam.uiuc.edu

Nov 7
Fisher House Fundraiser (2:00 PM - 11:00 PM) VFW Post 10302, Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 534, and Chapter 21 of 173d Airborne Brigade Association are hosting a fundraiser to benefit Fisher House Foundation. The fundraiser is being held at the VFW Post located at 2349 Stockyards Rd, Springfield, IL 62702 from 2 pm until 11 pm. The cost of admission is $10 and includes food. Entertainment is being provided by White Lightning. There will be several fundraising events throughout the day, including a charity auction. All the profits from the event will be donated to the Fisher House Foundation. Bobby Edwards, Commander of VFW Post 10302 stated "This is a great opportunity for three veteran organizations to come together and raise funds for the Fisher House Foundation. They are doing so much to help the families of veterans while the veteran is being treated at a military medical center or VA facility. We are a group of veterans helping veterans" The Fisher House Foundation is a non-profit, charitable 501 (c)(3) organization. The Fisher House Foundation is best known for a network of comfort homes where military and veterans' families can stay at no cost while a loved one is receiving treatment. These homes are located at major military and VA medical centers nationwide, close to the medical center or hospital they serve. Since inception, the program has saved military and veterans' families an estimated $282 million in out of pocket costs for lodging and transportation. There are currently 65 Fisher Houses located in the Unites States and Germany, which can house up to 848 families per day. A Fisher House is "a home away from home" for the family members of military patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. Families DO NOT pay to stay at a Fisher House, which helps to relieve stresses on the family as they deal with a sick or injured loved one. Emile Bouvet, Vice President of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 534 adds "The Fisher House Foundation does so much to help the veterans and their families. The services provided by Fisher House means the family has one less thing to worry about while they deal with the treatment of their loved one" In addition to the Fisher House locations throughout the US and Germany, the Fisher House Foundation operate the Hero Miles Program and Hotel for Heroes Program. The Hero Miles Program provides round-trip airline tickets to wounded, injured, and ill service members and/or their families who are undergoing treatment at a military or VA medical center; or who are attending an authorized event. Flights are made possible through frequent flyer mile donations made by individual airline passengers. The Hotels for Heroes program provides hotel rooms to the families of wounded, injured, and ill military service members who are undergoing treatment at authorized medical centers when a Fisher House is not available. Rooms are made possible through the donation of rewards points by the hotel's rewards members."The Fisher House Program is doing so much to support our veterans and their families and so much of their funding comes from donations and fundraisers like this one. I'm proud of 173rd Airborne Brigade Association, the VFW, and VVA working together to support this important program" concludes Kaiser Sterbinsky, President 173d Airborne Brigade Association, Chapter 21.

Nov 7
German Sausage Supper (4:30 PM - 7:00 PM; PANA) Bratwurst, Knockwurst, Sauerkraut, Sweet/Sour Red Cabbage, German Potato Salad, Applesauce, Green Beans, Dessert and Drink LOCATION: United In Faith Church (609 Fairgrounds Rd in Pana, Illinois 62557) TICKET PRICE: Adults - $9.00

Nov 7
A Landmark Dinner Evening (6:00 PM - 8:30 PM; PETERSBURG) Gourmet dinner, barbershop quartet, silent auction, door prizes. Proceeds to be used for restoration of Greenview's 1850 Marbold Farmstead, one of Landmark Illinois' 2012 Most Endangered Historic Places. LOCATION: The Oaks Bed and Breakfast (510 W. Sheridan Rd Petersburg, IL 62675) CONTACT: (217)632-3144 or historic-marbold-farmstead.org TICKET PRICE: $50.00

Nov 7
20th Anniversay Celebration Appreciation Concert featuring Karen Clark-Sheard (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM; DECATUR) The Program Ministry of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church has been blessed to sponsor an Appreciation Concert celebrating Rev. Dr. and Mrs. C.D. Stuart's 20 years of service to the church. A concert featuring gospel artist, Karen Clark-Sheard, will be Saturday, November 7, 2015 at 6:00 pm. Concert will be held at Maranatha Assembly of God, 555 West Imboden Drive in Decatur. Advance tickets are $15. For more information call 217.520.7879, 217-454.7933, or 217.875.1730. www.antiochdecatur.org

Nov 7
Downtown Champaign Historic Walking Tour - Morning (10:00am; CHAMPAIGN) Join local historian and Museum Board President T.J. Blakeman on an hour and half walking tour of Downtown Champaign. Tours will begin at the Champaign County Historical Museum (102 E University Ave., CHAMPAIGN, IL) and proceed through Downtown Champaign to West Side Park and back to the museum. Along the way you will learn about the history of many great Downtown buildings and have opportunities to ask questions along the way. 100% of the proceeds from the event go to supporting the Champaign County Historical Museum. Tickets for this event are $15 per person however, those that sign up for an individual museum membership or higher at the event will be given complimentary tickets (see below). Museum Membership Rates - Individual - $35 (1 Ticket) - Family - $50 (2 Tickets) - Centennial - $100 (4 Tickets)

Nov 7, 8
T-REX PLANET at Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave. Springfield, IL 61201. This is an indoor event, the dinosaur exhibit and the bounce houses are all indoors. Saturday November 7th: 10am-9pm. Sunday November 8th: 10am-7pm. Beginning November 7th- T-REX PLANET will land at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, IL. There will be a range of fun and engaging activities designed to appeal to and engage all members of the family. This event simulates what it would be like to experience the Jurassic, Triassic, and Cretaceous periods first hand. "Tracey" (a young T-Rex) greets guests once every 3 hours and can be found walking and playing around the exhibit. The main exhibit features life size ultra-realistic animatronic dinosaurs; over 40 life size dinosaurs in all with the rides and the skeletons. Visitors can interact with these creatures, learn about them and even ride a few. It features realistic scenes, enormous dinosaurs, cute baby dinosaurs, a Dinosaur band, and lots of fun activities for children of all ages. There's even a fossil dig where young paleontologist can dig up ancient bones, a "Dino Bounce" area with dinosaur theme inflatable bounce houses, and much more! -General admission for Adults is $17/adult and for Children ages 1 and older is $19/child and it includes tour of the Dino exhibit plus you get unlimited access to our Fossil Dig and to our basketball and Dinosaur Band, and unlimited access to our Dino Theatre and unlimited access to our Dino Bounce Castles area. It also includes a free game: Dino Soar!, which can be downloaded from the Apple Store and Google Play Store. * (Separate tickets for the optional dinosaur rides can be purchased at the event at $5 each. There is additional cost for face painting.) -Kids under the age of 1 get in for free. General Admission for Adults - $17.00 General Admission for Kids ages 1 & Up - $19.00

Nov 7
Mini Maker Faire: Make Workspace (11:00am; SPRINGFIELD) Join us to see demonstrations and experience some of the latest products in 3D printing, robotics, coding, programming and more at Barnes & Noble Bookstore Cafe (3110 West White Oaks Dr, SPFLD, IL). Join us in the Make & Collaborate space for these highly collaborative and interactive activities for a variety of ages. Featured materials included in the sessions: Ages 5+ - LEGO BIONICLE, Snap Circuits & Think fun Wheels & Gadgets Ages 8+ - littleBits Electronic Building Blocks & Cool Paper Machines Adults (13+) -- LEGO Architecture Studio and Extraordinaires Design Studio Pro

Nov 7
Family Bowling (NORMAL) Ninety minute time slots are available at 1, 2:30 and 4 p.m. One family per lane. Space is limited and registration is required. Reserve your spot online at Wellness.IllinoisState.edu. If your timeslot is full, call (309) 438-WELL (9355) to be placed on the wait list. Please bring your ISU ID the day of the event.

Nov 7
McLean County MissFits Roller Derby Home Bout (4:00 - 7:00pm; BLOOMINGTON - Skate N Place, 1704 Morris Ave.)
Last "Bout" of the 2015 Season!! Come see the McLean County Missfits play in their last game of the season against the MidState Mayhem at the Skate n Place! Doors open at 4pm! First whistle at 430! Our beneficiary will be the Miracle League. The Miracle League of Central Illinois provides physically and mentally challenged children a safe and spirited program in which they can play on a baseball field just like other kids. Miracle League baseball offers a unique and memorable opportunity these children would not otherwise have. Get your tickets online, or you can always buy them from a MissFit! Tickets are $5 pre-sale, and $8 at the door, kids 5 and under are free! Check us out on Facebook!

Nov 7
Hasia Diner Talk (6:00pm; SPRINGFIELD) The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum presents a discussion of American Jewish history with Hasia Diner, Director of the Goldstein-Goren Center for American Jewish History at New York University.Diner will be signing, Roads Taken: The Great Jewish Migrations To The New World And The Peddlers Who Led The Way Museum will open at 6:00pm. Book Signing at 6:00pm. Talk at 6:30pm. Museum journeys and galleries will be open.E-TICKET MUST BE PRESENTED FOR ENTRY (printed or on digital device).

Nov 7
A Landmark Dinner Evening (6:00 -8:30pm; PETERSBURG, The Oaks Bed & Breakfast, 510 Sheridan Rd.) Gourmet dinner, barbershop quartet, silent auction, door prizes. Proceeds to be used for restoration of Greenview's 1850 Marbold Farmstead, one of Landmark Illinois' 2012 Most Endangered Historic Places. historic-marbold-farmstead.org

Nov 7
20th Anniversay Celebration Appreciation Concert featuring Karen Clark-Sheard (6:00 - 9:00pm) The Program Ministry of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church has been blessed to sponsor an Appreciation Concert celebrating Rev. Dr. and Mrs. C.D. Stuart's 20 years of service to the church. A concert featuring gospel artist, Karen Clark-Sheard, will be Saturday, November 7, 2015 at 6:00 pm. Concert will be held at Maranatha Assembly of God, 555 West Imboden Drive in Decatur. Advance tickets are $15. For more information call 217.520.7879, 217-454.7933, or 217.875.1730. www.antiochdecatur.org

Nov 7
Speed Dating from Spark (6:30pm; Swingers Bar & Grille, 1304 Cross Creek Dr, BLOOMINGTON) We are creating an environment for that "spark" between two people who are looking to make a connection with someone special! What you will get with your tickets: 2 drinks and the bios of 20 single men or women with the potential to be person you've been waiting for. Click the link below to fill out the questionnaire and send a pic! You are more than welcome to come early and enjoy Swingers menu for dinner or stay after for a co*cktail and listen to the band. We want you to have a great night and meet some great people in a safe and fun environment.

Nov 8
CUSR Cupcake 5K (8:00am; Parkland College Campus, 1307-1315 N. Mattis Ave., CHAMPAIGN) All Ages What's better than a cupcake with friends? Or a fundraiser that supports kids and adults with disabilities who just want to have fun? Why not have both! The CUSR Cupcake 5K is going to be one sweet time! This is a timed, accessible race ending with a delicious cupcake. Funds raised will go into CUSR's scholarship fund, which supports individuals who need financial assistance to access CUSR programs and services. Runners, walkers, and registrants who use a wheelchair are welcome. All registrants must provide a valid email address in order to receive crucial pre-race information. Updated information will also be posted on CUSR's Facebook page. The event will go on rain or shine unless the weather poses unsafe conditions. No refunds will be given in the event of cancellation due to unsafe weather conditions. Remember, all proceeds go directly to CUSR's scholarship fund.Register Here!Wednesday, October 21 to get a t-shirt Wednesday, November 4 (no t-shirt) On-site registration, 8-8:30a (no t-shirt)Participant check-in from 8-8:45a; Race starts at 9aQuestions: 217-239-1152

Nov 8
Tie a Yellow Ribbon at UIS (12:00pm, TRAC Parking Lot, University Drive, SPRINGFIELD) An opportunity for UIS students to show their respect to those who serve our country by tying a yellow ribbon around the trees on UIS campus.

Nov 8
Steve Sabo Benefit (12:00 - 5:00pm, Firefighters/Postal Club, 940 W Lake Shore Drive, SPRINGFIELD) Steve Sabo, 49, was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia on January 15, 2015. Since the diagnosis, he has been hospitalized for over 4 months. Steve received 5 rounds of chemotherapy which culminated in a stem cell transplant in late July in an attempt to eliminate the disease. He is currently traveling to Barnes Hospital in St. Louis for weekly follow-up exams. Steve resides in Pawnee with his wife, Cindy, and their daughters Holly and Emily. Please join us for Silent Auction, DJ, and Refreshments to help this Husband/Dad/Friend!

Nov 9
MCN Open House for B.S.N. Program (1:00pm; NORMAL) Mennonite College of Nursing at ISU (North and School Streets, Normal, IL) invites prospective undergraduate students who are interested in a career as a nurse to attend an open house on Monday, November 9 at the Bone Student Center in the Circus Room, which is on the lower level. Reservation Required on Admissions Office web page.

Nov 15
Dave Landau - Live Stand Up! (8:00 PM; CHAMPAIGN) Dave Landau (Last Comic Standing, Comedy Central, HBO Comedy Festival) will be at Soma Ultralounge for ONE SHOW ONLU on Sunday, November 15th! Limited seating is available. Tickets are first come/first serve. If you would like to reserve a table at no extra fee, please contact jesse@cucomedy.com LOCATION: Soma Ultralounge (320 N Neil St in Champaign IL 61820)

Nov 15
Machine Head (8:00 PM; BLOOMINGTON) Bay Area Metal Titans MACHINE HEAD, will release their eighth full-length album and Nuclear Blast Entertainment debut, Bloodstone and Diamonds. The record was once again produced by Robb Flynn himself and Juan Urteaga (TESTAMENT, VILE), and like the last 7 out of 8 albums, was masterfully mixed by Colin Richardson (FEAR FACTORY, SLIPKNOT, BEHEMOTH, DEVILDRIVER). "Bloodstone and diamonds represent two of the hardest materials on earth, it is also a lyric from the opening track of the album 'Now We Die' . In many cultures the bloodstone has been used as an amulet to protect against evil, and is the symbol of justice. Diamonds are the hardest natural material on earth (which is how we feel about our music), and it also represents the diamond logo I drew 22 years ago (in my wife's apartment on Dover St. In Oakland) that has become the symbol for the band." Robb Flynn LOCATION: The Castle Theatre (209 E Washington Street Unit One in Bloomington, IL 61701) TICKETS: $22 (Advance) / $25 (Day of Show)

Nov 16-23
Operation Christmas Child Collection Week (Nov 16-23) Join Central Illinois volunteers impacting the lives of those in need around the world NOW by preparing for the collection of 16,566 gift-filled shoe boxesCentral Illinois' target contribution to the world's largest Christmas project of its kind, Operation Christmas Child. Throughout Nov 16 - 23, 2015 collection sites in Central Illinois will be bustling with activity as thousands of shoe boxes packed full of goodies for needy kids overseas are dropped off by local individuals and families. Then, using whatever means necessarytrucks, trains, boats, bikes and even elephantsthe shoe box gifts will be hand-delivered to hurting children in 100 countries around the world. For information on your closest collection site and what to put in a shoebox check out www.Samaritanspurse.org. For the location of your nearest location to drop off y our shoebox, see http://www.samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmas-child/drop-off-locations . You can also build a shoebox through an online tool offering a personalized and convenient way to send a gift to a child in one of the hardest-to-reach countries. Using special tracking technology, participants can follow their boxes online and discover the country to which their gifts will be delivered to children in need. To register a shoebox gift, use the online donation form at samaritanspurse.org. For more information about OCC in Central Illinois, contact Loretta Auvil, 217-352-5963, loretta44@gmail.com LOCATION: Meadowbrook Community College (1902 S Duncan Rd in Champaign IL 61822) CONTACT: (217)351-3019 WEBSITE: www.Samaritanspurse.org

Nov 16
International Week Kick-Off Breakfast (8:30AM; NORMAL) Join the Office of International Studies and Programs for coffee, tea, fruit and donuts as we introduce you to our new space and kick off International Education Week! If you will need special accommodation, please contact the event sponsor. LOCATION: Illinois State University (North and School Streets in Normal, IL 61761)

Nov 16
International Gala Night (5:30 PM; NORMAL) United International Association invites you to attend a night of international food, music and presentations hosted by Illinois State University's various International Student Organizations. Tickets will be on sale starting Monday October 26th and run until Friday, November 6th. Tickets can be purchased at the Braden Box Office in the Bone Student Center, all ticketmaster outlets, online at Ticketmaster.com or order by phone at (800)745-3000. Ticket price is $15.00 per individual and includes dinner and admission to the event. For special accommodations, please contact the Braden Box Office at (309)438-5444. LOCATION: Illinois State University (North and School Streets in Normal, IL 61761)

Nov 16
CEP Film Screening - Hard Earned by Kartemquin Films (6:00 PM; SPRINGFIELD) On Monday, November 16th, CEP will be hosting a Volunteer Engagement event at our tax site host, Family Service Center. In 2015, we put $30+ million back into the pockets of 17,662 Illinois families. Please join us for 2016 tax season as we aim to reach 20,000 families! We will be screening a documentary titled Hard Earned. It follows five low-income families fighting against all odds to thrive, when it takes everything they have simply to survive. New and returning volunteers are welcome to attend and learn more about the impact of our services and your role in making it happen, and to meet CEP staff and fellow volunteers! We will be serving light snacks and beverages. Feel free to bring a friend and RSVP today. LOCATION: Family Service Center (730 East Vine Street in Springfield, IL)

Nov 17
Inhaa Convention and Trade Show (SPRINGFIELD): It's a premier event in Household Consumables industry. Book a stall at 10times.com! LOCATION: Crowne Plaza Hotel - Springfield (3000 South Dirksen Parkway in Springfield, IL 62703)

Nov 17
Big Moustache Santa @ Lock Stock & Barrel (6:30PM; DECATUR) Since we have a limited number of seats to offer we ask you to give us as much notice as possible if you need to cancel. This provides us an opportunity to fill the space. Cancellations should be made by email @ paintlikemeparty@gmail.com. If it is 48 hours or more prior to class, you can request a refund (minus processing fee). If it is under 48 hours, you can transfer the reservation to another person. Loss of payment will occur if you do not show up. Classes may be subject to cancelation based on the number of enrollments. Paint Like Me Party disclaims any and all liability for alcohol-related accidents or injuries arising out of its activities, or arising out of the activities of its customers. Therefore, in consideration of participating in the activities of Paint Like Me Party, attendees do hereby agree to indemnify and hold harmless Paint Like Me Party, its proprietors and employees, and any guest speakers, instructors or artists for any loss, cost and expense incurred as the result of their conduct, whether on or off the premises. LOCATION: Lock Stock & Barrel (129 S Oakland in Decatur, IL 62522)

Nov 17
Illinois Modern Ensemble (7:30pm; URBANA) The experimental environment fostered by the members of the Illinois Modern Ensemble allows students to explore diverse works as well as their own creative impulses. LOCATION: Krannert Center for the Performing Arts (500 S. Goodwin Ave. Urbana, IL 61801) CONTACT: (217)333-6700 WEBSITE: www.krannertcenter.com/

Nov 18
SCHEELS Blaze Days (9:00am - 9:00pm; SPRINGFIELD) Make SCHEELS your last stop before the deer opener! We will offer one-time deals on essential gear as you head out on your hunt! The FIRST 300 customers will receive a FREE hat and hand warmers starting at 9AM. Register to win a Tikka T3 Forest gun, Vortex Viper HD 10×42 Binoculars, Danner Pronghorn Hoots, and a $100 SCHEELS gift card. LOCATION: Scheels (3801 South MacArthur Blvd in Springfield, IL 62711) CONTACT: (217)726-6330 WEBSITE: scheels.com/events

Nov 18
Douglass Branch Trivia Bowl! (4:00 - 5:00pm; CHAMPAIGN) Come test your knowledge and compete with your friends. Bring your brain and see who comes out on top! LOCATION: Douglass Branch Library Meeting Room (504 E Grove St Champaign, IL 61820) CONTACT: (217)403-2090 WEBSITE: www.champaign.org

Nov 18
Dear Santa @Alto Vineyards (6:30pm; CHAMPAIGN) Since we have a limited number of seats to offer we ask you to give us as much notice as possible if you need to cancel. This provides us an opportunity to fill the space. Cancellations should be made by email @ paintlikemeparty@gmail.com. If it is 48 hours or more prior to class, you can request a refund (minus processing fee). If it is under 48 hours, you can transfer the reservation to another person. Loss of payment will occur if you do not show up. Classes may be subject to cancelation based on the number of enrollments. Paint Like Me Party disclaims any and all liability for alcohol-related accidents or injuries arising out of its activities, or arising out of the activities of its customers. Therefore, in consideration of participating in the activities of Paint Like Me Party, attendees do hereby agree to indemnify and hold harmless Paint Like Me Party, its proprietors and employees, and any guest speakers, instructors or artists for any loss, cost and expense incurred as the result of their conduct, whether on or off the premises. LOCATION: Alto Vineyards (8515 HWY 127 in Champaign, IL)

Nov 18
Urbana-Champaign (6:30pm; CHAMPAIGN) Explore the deep-rooted origins, sentiments, and meanings of Diwali and share a unique perspective to what Diwali is all about. Experience all aspects of Diwali in a homey, comfortable, and enjoyable environment through the music, the sights, the people and the food. LOCATION: U of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; Asian American Cultural Center (1210 West Nevada Street)

Nov 18
Patch Theatre Company: Me and My Shadow (7:00pm; URBANA) In a playground of paper, light, music and color, a whimsical story about childhood friendship comes to life when one young girl meets a particularly sly and silly fellow: her shadow. LOCATION: Krannert Center for the Performing Arts (500 S. Goodwin Ave in Urbana, IL 61801) CONTACT: (217)333-6700 WEBSITE: www.krannertcenter.com TICKET INFO: $24; $19 seniors; $15 students; $10 children

Nov 18
Fall Dance Concert (7:30pm; NORMAL) Come Celebrate spring with the Illinois State Dance Theatre Company as they perform works of Jazz, ballet and modern dance. Tickets for the performances are $17.00 for adults, $12 for students and seniors, and $14 for Illinois State faculty and staff. Tickets can be purchased at the College of Fine Arts Box Office, located in the Center for the Performing Arts, from 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, or by calling (309)438-2535. Tickets are also available through ticketmaster.com. Free parking is available in the School Street Parking deck for all performances. If you will need special accommodation, please contact the event sponsor. LOCATION: Illinois State University (North and School Streets in Normal, IL 61761)

Nov 18
William Heiles, Pianist (7:30pm; URBANA) William Heiles has a repertoire that spans the early Baroque to the present with special emphasis on Bach, Chopin, Schumann, and the music of recent decades. He has presented local premieres of major works by Pierre Boulez, Elliott Carter, and Gyorgy Ligeti and has been a member of the paino faculty at the U of I since 1968. LOCATION: Krannert Center for the Performing Arts (500 S. Goodwin Ave. in Urbana, IL 61801) CONTACT: (217)333-6700 WEBSITE: www.krannertcenter.com/ TICKET INFO: $10; $7 seniors; $4 students

Nov 18
Pi Sigma Epsilon: Family Feud! (7:30pm; NORMAL) Pi Sigma Epsilon is hosting Family Feud! Gather your "family" for a bracket-style tournament and compete to win awesome prizes! The winning "family" will have the opportunity to compete in Fast Money for the chance to win a cash prize!! "Families" consist of 5 people and registration cost $25 a "family". "Families" can register in advance or at the door. PSE members will be doing registration November 10, 11, 12, 16 and 17 from 9-4 PM outside the CAT auditorium. Visit website for more information. So are you going to pass or play..? For special accommodation please contact Josh Ashley at pse.isu.president@gmail.com. LOCATION: State Farm Hall of Business @ Illinois State University in Normal, IL 61761 WEBSITE: www.psedeltaomega.com

Nov 18
Wind Symphony (8:00pm; NORMAL) Dr. Martin H. Seggelke, conductor Rolf Rudin - Das Verstromen der Seele - eine Totenkalge, op. 48 Jose Suner - Oriola - Canticum Lunaris Thomas Trachsel - Symphony No. 3 'The Apocalyptic' For additional information contact the Band Office (309)438-2166. If you will need special accommodation, please contact the event sponsor. LOCATION: Illinois State University (North and School Streets in Normal, IL 61761)

Nov 18
Sean Danielsen (8:00pm; BLOOMINGTON) With Nicotine Poetic Sean Danielsen, smile empty soul, world fire brigade, singer, guitar player, songwriter. LOCATION: The Castle Theatre (209 E Washington Street, Unit One in Bloomington, IL 61701) TICKET PRICE: $10.00

November 19
Undying Words in the Plaza: Gettysburg Address (10:00am - 12:00pm; SPRINGFIELD) Only 272 words and 10 sentences long, the Gettysburg Address is perhaps the shortest and best known of Lincoln's speeches. Using a giant puzzle, kids and adults alike will have the opportunity to assemble the Gettysburg Address in the Museum's Plaza. Do you know what comes after "Four score and seven years ago"? LOCATION: Abraham Lincoln Presidential museum and Library (212 N 6th St Springfield, IL 62702)

November 19
International Education Week Closing Celebration (4:00pm; NORMAL) Come celebrate a successful week of international education events and meet other globally-minded colleagues. If you will need special accommodation, please contact the event sponsor. LOCATION: Illinois State University (North and School Streets in Normal, IL 61761)

November 19
Festival of Trees - Friends Night Out (6:00 - 8:00pm; MATTOON) Get a first look and opportunity to purchase the beautiful holiday creations at the Festival of Trees preview event and enjoy this year's signature drink. LOCATION: Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center (1000 Health Center Dr in Mattoon, IL) CONTACT: (217)238-4765 WEBSITE: www.sarahbush.org TICKET PRICE: $10.00

November 19
Becoming Empowered and Successful Teens and Parent Transition Support Group (6:00 - 7:00pm; SPRINGFIELD) Support group for teens with a disability and their parents. Being held at SCIL this month. For more information contact Carolyn at 217 523-2587 v/tty LOCATION: Springfield Center for Independent Living - SCIL (330 S. Grand Ave., West in Springfield, IL 62704) CONTACT: (217)523-2587 WEBSITE: http://www.scil.org

November 19
Take Flyght with Tap In (6:30pm; URBANA) Tap In Leadership Academy will host its inaugural fundraiser, Take Flyght with Tap In at Flyght Bar and Lounge on Thursday November 19, 2015, and featuring Grammy Considered R&B artist, Dante Hall. Flight boarding will begin at 6:30 pm with appetizers being served until 7:30 pm. The flight will take off at 7:45 pm with a live performance by Grammy Considered R&B artist, Dante Hall. In-Flight services include raffles and prizes from various community sponsors. LOCATION: Flyght Bar & Lounge (142 Lincoln Sq. in Urbana, IL)

November 19, 20, 21
The Snow Queen: A New Musical (2:00pm; 7:00pm; CHAMPAIGN) 5th-8th graders and parents of enrolled students, you loved "Frozen" and now you can be amazed at the Fantastical Musical based on the original Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersen. A coming of age adventure featuring kooky characters, scary plotting, and potent rock numbers make this an unforgettable production. Be spirited away by this new musical adaptation of the fantastical coming-of-age adventure that inspired the hit Disney movie Frozen. Join Gerda on a dangerous an dwhimsical quest to save her best friend Kai before he is trapped forever in the Snow Queen's palace. Dare to enter a world where flowers sing, animals talk, and riddles yearn to be solved. With an original pop rock score, alluring ballads, and the enigmatic Snow Queen, you'll soon see this is not your average bedtime story. Winner of the 2014 Stage Rights/NYMF Publishing Award, a program of The New York Musical Theatre Festival. Tickets will be available at thevirginia.org Performances are November 19, 20, 21 at 7pm and November 21 at 2 pm. LOCATION: Virginia Theatre (203 W. Park Ave. in Champaign, IL 61820) CONTACT: (217)356-3053
WEBSITE: www.thevirginia.org/

November 19
Fall Dance Concert (7:30pm; NORMAL) Come Celebrate spring with the Illinois State Dance Theatre Company as they perform works of Jazz, ballet and modern dance. Tickets for the performances are $17.00 for adults, $12 for students and seniors, and $14 for Illinois State faculty and staff. Tickets can be purchased at the College of Fine Arts Box Office, located in the Center for the Performing Arts, from 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, or by calling (309)438-2535. Tickets are also available through ticketmaster.com. Free parking is available in the School Street Parking deck for all performances. If you will need special accommodation, please contact the event sponsor. LOCATION: Illinois State University (North and School Streets in Normal, IL 61761)

November 19
VOICE Reading Series (7:30pm; CHAMPAIGN) University of Illinois Creative Writing MFA students share their poetry and fiction. LOCATION: Krannert Art Museum (500 E. Peabody Dr. in Champaign, IL 61820) CONTACT: (217)333-1861 WEBSITE: www.kam.uiuc.edu/

November 19
UI Percussion Ensemble (7:30pm; URBANA) The versatile members of this group showcase percussion traditions from across the globe. LOCATION: Krannert Center for the Performing Arts (500 S.Goodwin Ave. in Urbana, IL 61801) CONTACT: (217)333-6700 or (217)333-6280 WEBSITE: www.krannertcenter.com/ or www.music.illinois.edu TICKET PRICE: $10; $7 seniors; $4 students

November 20 - 28
Memorial's Festival of Trees A nine-day holiday event featuring more than 200 trees and wreaths decorated with exquisite creativity. Features and elaborate hand-crafted Gingerbread Village and entertainment featuring dozens of musical performances. Please visit website for prices. LOCATION: Orr Building at the Illinois State Fairgrounds on 8th St in Springfield, IL 62702 WEBSITE: www.MemorialsFestivalofTrees.com

November 20
Mulberry School Event Day (9:00am; BLOOMINGTON) Join Mulberry School for a day of fun! LOCATION: Barnes & Noble Booksellers (1701 E Empire in Bloomington, IL 61701)

November 20
Festival of Trees (10:00 am - 8:00 pm;Sarah Bush - Mattoon, IL) Enjoy the glitter and glitz of the holiday season with fully decorated 7-foot trees, 4-foot trees, wreaths and centerpieces; specialty items, live greenery and trees, entertainment, live and silent auction, and much more. LOCATION: Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center (1000 Health Center Dr in Mattoon, IL) CONTACT: (217) 238-4765 WEBSITE: www.sarahbush.org TICKET PRICE: $3 for adults, children under 12 free

November 20
Kenney Festival of Trees (Kenney, IL) The Kenney Heritage Association will host their 20th "Festival of Trees" at the Kenney Community Center. The dates and times are Friday, November 20 from 1-8 pm, Saturday, November 21 from 10 am - 8pm and Sunday, November, 22 from noon - 5pm. Santa is coming on Saturday from 1-8 pm and Sunday from 1-5 pm. He will be on the second floor in the ballroom.
The trees are decorated by area businesses, organizations, families and individuals. Also there are decorated wreaths and table settings. Always a favorite are the vintage Aluminum Christmas Trees in the ballroom.
Enjoy homemade cookies and punch in the snowmen theme north room. Come and get in the Christmas Spirit with the Kenney Heritage Association. Admission is free and the center is handicapped assessable.
LOCATION: Kenney Community Center in Kenney, IL CONTACT: Janet at (217)935-3513 or Debbie at (217)944-2433

November 20
8th Annual Foundation Harvest Gala (5:30pm; CHAMPAIGN) The Foundation Harvest Gala supports Ag Education through two programs. Our Scholarship Program provides scholarships to over 50 students annually that are pursuing a field of study in an AG related curriculum. Our Earth Partners Ag Literacy Program provides educational resources and various field trips to primary school children to explore the world of agriculture. This program impacts 8-9,000 students a year. LOCATION: Pear Tree Estates (2150 County Road 1000 E in Champaign, IL 61822)

November 20
Slow Food Springfield: Heritage Pork Dinner (6:30pm; SPRINGFIELD) Join us for this traditional fall feast! The menu created is a collaboration between Chef Michael Higgins of Maldaner's Restaurant and, pork farmer, Blaine Bilyeu of Papa's Pasture. Berkshire hog is the selected heritage breed. The meat is valued for it's savory flavor, superior texture, and excellent marbling. There will be a "Meet the Farmer" portion of the evening to hear Blaine's story about the history of Papa's Pasture, what daily life on the farm is like, how to purchase her pork products and a brief Q & A session. We will start with Pork Terrine. Followed by Roasted Sweet Potato Salad with Mixed Greens and Arugula, topped with Shaved Lardo. The main course is Porchetta. For dessert, Chocolate Pecan Torte. A cash bar is available at this event. Bon Apetit! LOCATION: Maldaner's Restaurant (222 South 6th Street in Springfield, IL 62701)

November 20
Fall Dance Concert (7:30pm; NORMAL) Come Celebrate spring with the Illinois State Dance Theatre Company as they perform works of Jazz, ballet and modern dance. Tickets for the performances are $17.00 for adults, $12 for students and seniors, and $14 for Illinois State faculty and staff. Tickets can be purchased at the College of Fine Arts Box Office, located in the Center for the Performing Arts, from 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, or by calling (309)438-2535. Tickets are also available through ticketmaster.com. Free parking is available in the School Street Parking deck for all performances. If you will need special accommodation, please contact the event sponsor. LOCATION: Illinois State University (North and School Streets in Normal, IL 61761)

November 20
Magic and Other Nonsense (7:30pm; CHAMPAIGN) 4th annual Magic and Other Nonsense! Coming to you for our fourth year, magic and Other Nonsense is the C-U's only annual magical variety show. This year we will be featuring the talents of author, historian and magician, William Pack. The incredible slieght of hand artistry of Tony Dowell. The zany antic of Toto, and more to be announced soon! Starring, and hosted by local magician Markus Clegg. Friday Nov. 20, and Saturday, Nov. 21 at 7:30 pm. LOCATION: Fluid Event Center (601 N Country Fair Dr, Champaign, IL) TICKET PRICE: $10 in advance; $15 at the door

November 20
The Wild Side Benefit Concert - Fiona Way, Merge (8:00pm; BLOOMINGTON) The Wild Side Benefit Concert. Children's Hospital of Illinois invites you to a night full of live entertainment, food, premier prizes raffles, and more! Featuring live music from Fiona Way and Merge! The proceeds from this event will go directly to benefit the Children's Hospital of Illinois. LOCATION: The Castle Theatre (209 E. Washington St, Unit One in Bloomington, IL 61701) TICKET PRICE: $30 (Advance) / $40 (Day of Show) / VIP Available / All Sales to the Children's Hospital of Illinois

November 21
Junior Fall Slam Tennis Tournament (CHAMPAIGN) Guaranteed at least two matches. Entry Deadline: 11/17, Register online at usta.com. Tournament number is 856122215. Divisions: Boys 16 & under singles, Girls 16 & Under singles, Boys 12 & under singles and Girls 12 & Under singles. LOCATION: Dodds Tennis Center (2802 Farber Dr in Champaign, IL)

November 21
DeLand Fall Festival of the Arts at museum of Art DeLand, Illinois. It's a premier event in Gifts and Handicrafts industry. Book a stall at 10times.com!

November 21
Memorial's Festival of Trees (7:00am; SPRINGFIELD) A nine-day holiday event featuring more than 200 trees and wreaths decorated with exquisite creativity by designers; a centerpiece and gingerbread structure silent auction; an elaborate hand-crafted Gingerbread Village; the Candy Cane Express train; the Little Elves' Workshop craft area; Snapshots with Santa; a boutique full of unique gift items; hand-decorated gingerbread cookies; and entertainment featuring dozens of musical performances. The annual event raises money for health-related projects and programs at Memorial Health System and in the Springfield community. LOCATION: Orr Building at the IL state Fairgrounds on Sangamon Ave in Springfield, IL 62702
CONTACT: (217)788-4301 WEBSITE: https://www.memorialmedical.com/Memorial-Medical-Center-Foundation/Festival-of-Trees TICKET PRICE: Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children ages 3-12. Children 2 under are free.
Senior Day, Tuesday, Nov. 24, $3 for adults 65 years old and older.

November 21
One Girl Can Really Change the World (8:30am; SPRINGFIELD) Mighty Strong Girls is hosting a special event, One Girl Can Really Change the World, featuring: Worship and concert recording artist SHUREE Katie Wolfe, found of Get Real Inc. Sharlotte Lynn, former NFL cheerleader Amy Denney, found of Might Strong Girls Tina Schmitt with Claire and Cassandra Schmitt of Might Strong Girls Linda O'Toole, writer with Might Strong Girls The event will include real talks, Biblical truths, audience participation, interactive games, multi-media, a full SHUREE concert and a black light concert. Inspiring girls and women to put their gifts into action and change the world. Romans 12:1-2 LOCATION: Calvary Temple Christian Center (1730 W Jefferson St in Springfield, IL 62702)

November 21
Kiddie Korner Preschool Holiday Shopping Extravaganza (9:00am; NORMAL) 21 Vendors will be available to help you shop for that perfect Christmas gift or a little something for yourself! All proceeds benefit Kiddie Korner Preschool! LOCATION: Our Savior Lutheran Church (1510 N Main St in Normal, IL 61761)

November 21
November Meeting of Sherlock Holmes Society (9:00am; SPRINGFIELD) Pondicherry Lodge, the Sherlock Holmes Society of Springfield and the west central Illinois area, will meet on Saturday, November 21, 2015 at 9AM in the conference room at Scheels, 3801 S MacArthur Blvd. The public is invited to attend. There will be a discussion of The Boscombe Valley Mystery. For more information, or more detailed directions, please call 546.8387. To learn more about Pondicherry Lodge, go to sherlock.lolopop.org LOCATION: SCHEELS (Legacy Pointe Town Center in Springfield, IL 62711)

November 21
Festival of Trees (10:00am - 2:00pm; Sarah Bush - Mattoon, IL) Enjoy the glitter and glitz of the holiday season with fully decorated 7-foot trees, 4-foot trees, wreaths and centerpieces; specialty items, live greenery and trees, entertainment, live and silent auction, and much more. LOCATION: Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center (1000 Health Center Dr. in Mattoon, IL) CONTACT: (217)238-4765 WEBSITE: www.sarahbush.org TICKET PRICE: Adults $3; Children under 12 Free

November 21
Post Polio Group (10:00am - 2:00pm; SPRINGFIELD) Support group for those who have had polio. For more information contact Susanne at 217 523-2587. LOCATION: Springfield Center for Independent Living - SCIL (330 S. Grand Ave., West in Springfield, IL 62704) CONTACT: (217)523-2587 WEBSITE: http://www.scil.org

November 21
Tallula Christian Church Chili Supper (11:00am - 7:00pm) The Tallula Christian Church will have a Chili and Vegetable Soup Supper on Saturday, November 21, at the church. The menu will include chili or soup, sandwich or hot dog, dessert, and coffee, iced tea, or milk. Serving will be from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm. In addition to our annual Cookie Walk, we have added a "Themed Gift Basket Raffle" to our bazaar room. Tickets may be purchased and used as a chance (or chances) of winning one (or more) of our fun baskets. A second raffle will be held for a 20 lb turkey. All winners will be drawn at the end of the evening. You need not be present to win either drawing. The public is invited. LOCATION: Tallula Christian Church (309 N Elm Street in Tallula, IL 62688)

Nov 21
C-U Rise Together (11:00am-4:00pm; CHAMPAIGN) A public community substance abuse and mental health awareness event doubling as a fundraiser for C-U At Home. The goal is to bring the community together to raise awareness and start talking about the issues and challenges surrounding substance abuse and mental health in Champaign-Urbana. C-U At Home is a local non-profit resource who's mission is to "engage and mobilize our community to house and support the most vulnerable homeless on their journey of healing and restoration." They have very little in terms of financial resources and are entirely dependent upon volunteers. They have an incredible team who is passionate about our community, and need all the help they can get in order to continue helping those who need it the most. We need to come together as a community to open our eyes to what is happening in our own backyards. It is to the point where everyone knows someone who is struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues. And yet, we have VERY LITTLE in terms of resources for those struggling the most. Many have nowhere to turn, and end up getting arrested instead of getting the help they need, only because our only options are to arrest them or leave them in their current state. The event is Saturday November 21 from 11:00am to 4:00pm at the Fluid Events Center located at 601 N. Country Fair Dr. in Champaign. There will be several speakers, a catered lunch, and a raffle. There will also be T-Shirts available for purchase. All funds raised will go directly to C-U At Home. Please attend this event to learn more about the substance abuse and mental health issues occurring in our community, to support a local non-profit who needs our community to survive, and to learn more about what you can do to join in our fight. Let's C-U Rise Together.

Nov 21
Signing With Author Kevin Kmitta - Curveballs & Changeups (1:00pm; CHAMPAIGN) Join us for an author signing event from 1:00 to 3:00PM. Kevin Kmitta will be signing copies of his book, Curveballs & Changeups. "Based on real life events, Curveballs & Changeups navigates through the hazard-filled world of split family loyalties, by birth and by marriage... Both Cub and Cardinal fans will relate to the humorous portrayal of this famous rivalry". We hope to see you then! LOCATION: Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 65 East Market View Drive, Champaign, IL

Nov 21
Tango at KAM (1:00 - 4:00pm; CHAMPAIGN) Krannert Art Museum (500 E. Peabody Dr.) hosts an afternoon of tango dancing in the Rosann Gelvin Noel Gallery. All levels of experience welcome. www.kam.uiuc.edu/ CONTACT: (217) 333-1861

Nov 21, 22
St Frances Cabrini Craft and Bake Sale (1:00 - 7:00pm; SPRINGFIELD) St Frances Cabrini is having a Craft and Bake Sale also featuring Christmas Decorations. This event will be held in the Parrish Center at 1020 N Milton is Springfield, IL: Saturday Nov 21, 2015 from 1-7 pm and continuing on Sunday Nov 22, 2015 from 10:30 am and closing at 12:30pm.

Nov 21
Day/Night Investigation at Ashmore Estates (2:00pm; ASHMORE) Best of Both to Investigate There is no better time to investigate than all the time. Investigate one of what has been rated one of the top 3 most haunted buildings in Illinois as well as listed in the top 50 most haunted locations in America. Ashmore Estates has been seen nationally on Ghost Adverntures, Ghost Hunters, or in a film by the Booth Brothers - Children of the Grave II. This is your chance, up to 10 people will have the opportunity to wander the halls of this 1916 Poor Farm where the inmates called this home and later patients from the pyschiatric care facility stayed to get help. With over 200 reported deaths at Ashmore Estates we know some have never left the property. You will be given a tour of the property and some of the history behind Ashmore Estates. Bring your cameras, recorders, EMF meters, or just bring yourself and open your mind for an evening of fun. No equipment no problem we have equipment you can use. If you want to bring a zip/flash drive we will save what you may have acquired during the evening and you can take it home with you to review later as seen on TV. You will have a chance to investigate the building when it was the busiest - daytime, and then investigate when it is the creepiest - at night. You can investigate or tour during the day, go grab a bite to eat and come back for the night investigation. This will be a great opportunity for a limited number of people. SPECIAL REBATE OPPORTUNITY If we sell all 10 tickets you will be given a $25 refund when you show up. You can use the money to maybe take a break from investigating and go in to grab a bite to eat, purchase souvenoirs, or just put it in your pocket to go home with you. A waiver will be required to be signed, if you are under age 18 a parent must sign this in advance, unless they are coming. You can contact info@hauntedashmoreestates.net for a copy of the waiver to be signed. Do you have what it takes to do a 12 hour "lock down"? THIS IS LIMITED TO 10 PEOPLE ONLY. Unlike other tour companies that pack the place for their own financial gain we want to give you each an experience you will not forget. You do not have to stay the entire 12 hours. The building will open 15 minutes prior to the investigation time. You should park on the West side of the building by the overnight bunk houses. Check us out on Facebook under Ashmore Estates or on our website at www.ashmoreestates.net TICKETS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.

Nov 21
Read to the Dogs (3:00 - 3:45pm; CHAMPAIGN) Practice reading aloud with some of the best listeners around. Read to the Dogs will visit the library for a howling good time. We'll have some great dog stories with some wonderful guest dogs with which you can share them. Library: Main Library, 200 W. Green St. Location: Robeson Pavilion Room A & B Contact: Children's Services Contact Number: 217/403-2030

Nov 21
Gibson City Lighted Holiday Parade (4:00 - 8:00pm; DOWNTOWN GIBSON CITY) Please join us for the 21st annual Gibson City Lighted Holiday Parade on Saturday, November 21st! The festivities start at 4pm with holiday music by the Sugar Tree Band, children's activities in Santa's Village, and various food and craft vendors. The parade kicks off at 6:30pm.

Nov 21
Decatur Underground Theater: Irving Berlin's White Christmas (7:00pm; DECATUR) Decatur Underground Theater presents a stage adaptation of the classic Paramount Pictures film. LOCATION: Decatur Civic Center Arena, 1 Gary K Anderson PLZ., Decatur, IL

Nov 21, 22
The Polar Express™ 2015 ( MONTICELLO) Read along with the story as the train makes its round-trip journey to the North Pole. Meet Santa and enjoy caroling, hot chocolate, surprises and a treat. And, for those who believe, a special gift for each child. Children are encouraged to wear their pajamas! The Polar Express™ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Who needs a ticket? Anyone 2 and older will need a ticket. Those under 2 are required to sit on a lap. Where are my tickets? Your tickets will be ready for pickup at the Museum's Wabash Depot in downtown Monticello at 4 PM the day of your train. Tickets will not be mailed. Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your departure to ensure time to pick up tickets and board the train. All seats on the train are assigned. Where is the Wabash Depot? 200 E. Livingston, Monticello, IL. Why should my children dress in their pajamas? In the story The Polar Express™, all the children taking this magical train ride are awakened from their beds on Christmas Eve. Join the fun by bringing your children in their pajamas too. Adults are also welcome to join the PJ party fun. If I haven't read the book or seen the movie will I still have a good time? Yes, you can read along or just listen as we read the storybook on our train ride to the North Pole. If you have read the book or seen the movie, you will feel like you've just stepped off the pages as we recreate the story with your child as a part of the cast. How long is the train ride? The train ride is one hour long. Will I get to meet the conductor of the train? Yes, he will call "All Aboard" when the train is ready to leave the station, and he will punch your train ticket during the trip. Will my child get to meet Santa personally? Yes. Santa will board the train at the North Pole and give a sleigh bell to each child during the return trip. Will there be other things to do at the train station? Yes, at the VFW Hall next to the Wabash depot where the trains board, you will find children's games and activities, food and drinks available for purchase at Mrs. Claus' Kitchen, and holiday gift ideas at Santa's Gift Shop. Are there hotels in town? There are two hotels in Monticello. The Best Western Gateway Inn is located on the frontage road near the Market Street (IL 105) exit on I-72. The Best Western can be accessed via the chain's website at www.bestwestern.com, or by calling 217-762-9436 The Foster Inn is a family-owned motel located about a half-mile north of downtown on IL 105. The Foster Inn's website is www.fosterinn.com, and can be reached by phone at 217-762-9835. Do you keep a wait list for sold-out trains? Sorry, we do not keep a wait list. What is the refund policy in the case of inclement weather? Our policy regarding refunds is that if the State Police close the highways, we will issue refunds. Otherwise, the trains will run. ™ and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Based on "The Polar Express" book and characters ™ and 1985 by Chris Van Allsburg. Used by permission of Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. LOCATION: Monticello Railway Museum, 992 Iron Horse Place, Monticello, IL

Nov 21
Snowgirl and Deer @ Mahomet Studio (7:00pm; MAHOMET) Since we have a limited number of seats to offer we ask you to give us as much notice as possible if you need to cancel. This provides us an opportunity to fill the space. Cancellations should be made by email @ paintlikemeparty@gmail.com. If it is 48 hours or more prior to class, you can request a refund (minus processing fee). If it is under 48 hours, you can transfer the reservation to another person. Loss of payment will occur if you do not show up. Paint Like Me Party disclaims any and all liability for alcohol-related accidents or injuries arising out of its activities, or arising out of the activities of its customers. Therefore, in consideration of participating in the activities of Paint Like Me Party, attendees do hereby agree to indemnify and hold harmless Paint Like Me Party, its proprietors and employees, and any guest speakers, instructors or artists for any loss, cost and expense incurred as the result of their conduct, whether on or off the premises. Bathroom is not wheelchair accessible. Click here for all of our open parties!

Nov 21
Holiday Pops in the Heartland (7:30 - 9:30pm; SPRINGFIELD) Kick off the holidays with festive music and traditional songs to celebrate the season. This truly is a community affair, as the ISO is joined by the Illinois State University Concert Choir, Bloomington-Normal Youth Symphony, Sangamon Valley Youth Symphony, Springfield Ballet Company, Springfield Youth Performance Group, and the Twin Cities Ballet Company. Great fun for the entire family, young and old! LOCATION: Sangamon Auditorium, 1 University Plaza Springfield, IL 62703 WEBSITE: http://www.ilsymphony.org/ TICKETS: $60/$40/$20

Nov 21
Gospel Singers, The Ball Brothers, Present Concert on Vinegar Hill (7:00 - 9:00pm; MT. PULASKI) The award winning Gospel Quartet, The Ball Brothers, will be presenting their Christmas Concert during Christmas on Vinegar Hill. This groups close, smooth harmony and traditional gospel songs catch the attention of our older generation, while their contemporary upbeat music attracts the younger. Come join us for a night of great music. For those who want a front row seat, come early. LOCATION: Mt. Pulaski Christian Church Family Life Center, 114 N. Lafayette St., Mt. Pulaski, IL WEBSITE: theballbrothers.com CALL: (217) 792-5417

Nov 22
Theta and Kappa Turkey Trot 2015 (10:30am; BLOOMINGTON) Theta Chi and Kappa Kappa Gamma of Illinois Wesleyan will be hosting a 5k walk or run through the Illinois Wesleyan's (1312 N Park St., Bloomington, IL) campus. The run/or walk route will occur throughout the campus starting at Eckley Quad and ending at Theta's fraternity house. At Theta following the race, "Thanksgiving lunch" will be served. The event includes a prize for the best "fall" costume associated with the upcoming holiday Thanksgiving. $15- include tshirt, admission and lunch $10- admission and lunch Proceeds will be distributed to both chapters choice of philanthropy, Susan G. Komen and the Wounded Warrior Project.

Nov 22
Big Moustache Santa @ Elm Street Grill, Argenta (2:00pm; ARGENTA) Since we have a limited number of seats to offer we ask you to give us as much notice as possible if you need to cancel. This provides us an opportunity to fill the space. Cancellations should be made by email @ paintlikemeparty@gmail.com. If it is 48 hours or more prior to class, you can request a refund (minus processing fee). If it is under 48 hours, you can transfer the reservation to another person. Loss of payment will occur if you do not show up. Paint Like Me Party disclaims any and all liability for alcohol-related accidents or injuries arising out of its activities, or arising out of the activities of its customers. Therefore, in consideration of participating in the activities of Paint Like Me Party, attendees do hereby agree to indemnify and hold harmless Paint Like Me Party, its proprietors and employees, and any guest speakers, instructors or artists for any loss, cost and expense incurred as the result of their conduct, whether on or off the premises. Bathroom is not wheelchair accessible.

Nov 16-23
Operation Christmas Child Collection Week (CHAMPAIGN): Join Central Illinois volunteers impacting the lives of those in need around the world NOW by preparing for the collection of 16,566 gift-filled shoe boxesCentral Illinois' target contribution to the world's largest Christmas project of its kind, Operation Christmas Child.Throughout Nov 16 - 23, 2015 collection sites in Central Illinois will be bustling with activity as thousands of shoe boxes packed full of goodies for needy kids overseas are dropped off by local individuals and families. Then, using whatever means necessarytrucks, trains, boats, bikes and even elephantsthe shoe box gifts will be hand-delivered to hurting children in 100 countries around the world.For information on your closest collection site and what to put in a shoebox check out www.Samaritanspurse.org. For the location of your nearest location to drop off y our shoebox, see http://www.samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmas-child/drop-off-locations/ You can also build a shoebox through an online tool offering a personalized and convenient way to send a gift to a child in one of the hardest-to-reach countries. Using special tracking technology, participants can follow their boxes online and discover the country to which their gifts will be delivered to children in need. To register a shoebox gift, use the online donation form at samaritanspurse.org. For more information about OCC in Central Illinois, contact Loretta Auvil, 217-352-5963, loretta44@gmail.com

Nov 23
Movin' and Groovin' (4:00pm - 5:00pm) With guidance from SNAP educators with the U of I Extension Office, kids will take part in nutrition lessons and physical activities to promote healthy lifestyles.
Library: Douglass Branch Library, 504 E. Grove St. Location: Meeting Room Contact: Douglass Branch Library Contact Number: 217/403-2090

Nov 23
Rustic Reindeer @ Mahomet Studio (6:30pm; MAHOMET) Since we have a limited number of seats to offer we ask you to give us as much notice as possible if you need to cancel. This provides us an opportunity to fill the space. Cancellations should be made by email @ paintlikemeparty@gmail.com. If it is 48 hours or more prior to class, you can request a refund (minus processing fee). If it is under 48 hours, you can transfer the reservation to another person. Loss of payment will occur if you do not show up. Paint Like Me Party disclaims any and all liability for alcohol-related accidents or injuries arising out of its activities, or arising out of the activities of its customers. Therefore, in consideration of participating in the activities of Paint Like Me Party, attendees do hereby agree to indemnify and hold harmless Paint Like Me Party, its proprietors and employees, and any guest speakers, instructors or artists for any loss, cost and expense incurred as the result of their conduct, whether on or off the premises. Bathroom is not wheelchair accessible.

Nov 24, 28
Hmm...Snack or Breakfast (10:00am; EFFINGHAM) Enjoy a demonstration class in our beautiful new Education Center kitchen. Learn how to prepare the recipes, taste the flavorful dishes and take home a product to make the recipe at home. *Gourmet Savory hot dish w/Spinach plus Bacon and Parmesan *Baked Quinoa & Oatmeal *Blueberry Oat Bars *Easy Apple Oatmeal Muffins November 24th - Tuesday 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM November 28th - Saturday 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Not only will we send you home with some great knowledge and recipes, but also with one of the main Hodgson Mill Products used in the recipes. FAQs Can I register in person? Sure! Visit us at The Mill during business hours, 9am-5pm Mon-Fri or 9am-3pm Sat. (Closed Sunday.) Bonus: No payment processing fee if you register in person! Online registration will end 48 hours before class starts, but please check with us and register in person for any remaining space! Can I reserve my space in the class and pay when I get there? Sorry, all classes are first come, first serve. We can't guarantee you a spot if you haven't registered. Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event? This class is recommended for ages 18 and up. What is the refund policy? Refunds are available as long as you cancel 24 hours before the event begins. We apologize, but we can't refund after the 24-hour mark. We'll do our best to work with you and get you into another class though! What are my transport/parking options getting to the event? Plenty of parking in our lot! Where can I contact the organizer with any questions? For any questions re classes, please call us at 217-347-MILL (6455).

Nov 24
Community Thanksgiving Luncheon (12:00-1:30pm: DECATUR) Since 1953 the Chamber of Commerce for Decatur & Macon County has called the community together annually to offer thanks for the blessings of the year. New community leaders and social service clubs are honored, and foreign exchange students are recognized and introduced to the American Thanksgiving tradition. The luncheon has drawn a capacity crowd each year. LOCATION: Decatur Civic Center Arena, 1 Gary K Anderson PLZ, Decatur, IL business.decaturchamber.com

Nov 27
Chambanacon is happening on 27 Nov 2015 at Marriott Hotel & Conference Center Normal, United States Of America. Its a premier event in Sporting Goods, Toys & Games industry. Book a stall at 10times.com!

Nov 27
Day After Thanksgiving Shopping at SCHEELS (6:00 -7:00am) Join SCHEELS to kick off a day full of shopping with hot chocolate, live music, and the FIRST 300 people in line will receive a FREE $10 SCHEELS Gift Card. WEBPAGE: scheels.com/events CONTACT: (217)726-6330

Nov 27, 28, 29
THE POLAR EXPRESS PAJAMA PARTY Friday, November 27 - Party at 5:30 pm, Film at 7:00 pm; Saturday, November 28 - Party at 1:00pm, Film at 2:00 pm* Saturday, November 28 Party at 5:30 pm, Film at 7:00 pm; Sunday, November 29 - Party at 3:00 pm, Film at 4:30 pm *Sensory friendly event Everybody in their jammies (you too, grownups!) as The Polar Express steams off on a journey to the North Pole. Entering the theatre, you'll be greeted by our train conductors, and receive your special train ticket. Our dining car servers will welcome you to the preshow cocoa party, where our young travelers will enjoy some crafting and cocoa before embarking on their journey, a special screening of the film "The Polar Express." THE STORY: Does Santa Claus exist? For one doubting boy, an astonishing event occurs. Late on Christmas Eve, he lies in bed hoping to hear the sound of reindeer bells from Santa's sleigh. Suddenly, he instead hears the roar of a steam engine outside his window. The conductor welcomes him aboard the train for an extraordinary journey to the North Pole. There, he receives an extraordinary gift only those who believe in Santa can experience. Rated PG The cocoa party is set up as an open house; guests may arrive within the window of 5:30pm - 7:00pm for the evening events, or 1:00-2:00pm for the November 28 early event. Our special guest from the North Pole will greet guests after the show; a photo is included with your ticket. ALL SEATS ARE RESERVED: $15 in advance - $20 at the door LAP PASSES: For young children who will sit on the lap of an adult, purchase the adult ticket in advance, and then purchase a $5 "lap pass" at the door. ABOUT THE SENSORY-FRIENDLY EVENT - NOVEMBER 28 at 1pm For guests with Autism or other sensory challenges, at this screening the theatre lights are left low, and the sound is reduced. A quiet space is available in the lower level lounge for guests who may need a break during the film. The Preshow Cocoa Party is held in the lower level Legacy Lounge. Accessibility is limited for the physically challenged (stairs). Please call the theatre to discuss your unique needs.

November 27
LIVE Reindeer at SCHEELS (10:00am - 5:00pm; SPRINGFIELD) Join SCHEELS and Morning Star Reindeer Production for a chance to meet one of Santa's LIVE reindeer at SCHEELS. Come see one of Santa's reindeer before they are called back to the North Pole! While you are at SCHEELS take advantage of writing a letter to Santa (located by Ginna's Cafe). Cost: Photos will be available for purchase! 1-8×10 or 2-5×7's for $20 LOCATION: Scheels (3801 South MacArthur Blvd. Springfield, IL 62711) WEBPAGE: scheels.com/events CONTACT: (217)726-6330

November 27
Fun Frosty Friday (10:00am - 1:00pm) Experience a presidential tree lighting, crafts, entertainment and hot chocolate. Greet Santa at 10:00 AM See a Presidential Tree Lighting Ceremony Crafts and movies Donate hats and gloves to Sojourn Shelter Holiday Themed Quilt Show Quilting Demonstration Stamped "Fun Frosty, Friday Passports" receive a "Black Friday" admission to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum for $10 per Family (redeemable Only on 11/27/15) LOCATION: Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library (212 N 6th St Springfield, IL 62702)

November 28
Relax, Refresh, Recharge! Shop Small Business Saturday (10:00am) FREE Food, Beer* & Wine* FREE Massages FREE Gift Wrap on anything from anywhere compliments of Soroptimist International of Bloomington-Normal noon-4pm $50 off $250 or more in-store purchase 2 years interest free financing available with approved credit. We are so much more than just Billiards & Barstools! Check out our full lines of furniture at www.ShopAltmans.com *21 and over LOCATION: Altman's Billiards & Barstools (2036 Ireland Grove Rd Bloomington, IL)

November 28
Cookies 'N Canvas - Free Event for K-5th Graders (2:00pm; PARIS) Cookies 'N Canvas is sponsored by Dimond Bros. Insurance and is just one of many free activities taking place in Paris, Illinois on November 28th during our Christmas in Paris Festival. Participants will be given a canvas and a palate of colors to make their own special work of art. Cheryl Redman will be instructing the class and is an avid painter and instructor. Please show up 5-10 minutes early for your session so you can be ready to start on time. Please wear appropriate clothing. Appropriate ages: K-5th Grade Session Length: Approx 35 minutes Class Size: Limited to 25 participants per class - Must have a "ticket" to attend. LOCATION: Lobby of First Farmers Bank (110 W Court Street in Paris, IL)

November 28
Springfield Art Association to Hold 84th Beaux Arts Ball (5:30pm) The 84th Beaux Arts Ball themed "The Jewel Ball", will be held on Saturday, November 28, 2015, beginning at 5:30 p.m., at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Springfield, Illinois. King Alexander Remington Kane, Queen Christine Elizabeth Rolf and the Royal Court will preside over this year's Ball. The premiere sponsor of this elegant evening is the Lowery-Muller Group at Wells Fargo, and will feature the introduction of the Jewel Ball Court, dinner, silent auction, a $100 Golden Ticket opportunity, Jewels on Ice by Denny Jewelers and dancing to the music of DK Money. Christine Elizabeth Rolf is the daughter of David and Alice Rolf. She is currently a junior and Honors College member at Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama, majoring in Interior Design and minoring in International Studies and Business. Christy is a Student Ambassador for the College of Human Sciences and was the Vice President of Communications for the Delta Sigma Chapter of Delta Gamma. She recently completed an internship with Meridy King Interiors in Atlanta and studied abroad in Italy. Christy, along with her sisters Debbie, Kathy and Carrie, has grown up with the Springfield Art Association (SAA). Over the years they have participated in classes and summer art camp and assisted the organization whenever possible for exhibition openings, ground maintenance work days, Fine Art Fair logistics and other SAA events. Christy's fondest memories from growing up with the SAA are playing with her sisters on the buffalo statue while her parents volunteered, and participating in the Beaux Arts Ball. The Springfield Art Association will always be a very special place for Christy and she is honored and thrilled to represent her family as Queen.Christy's parents, David and Alice, have been active members of the Springfield Art Association for nearly 25 years serving in many capacities including Committee Chairs, Board members, and Executive Board members. David is the current President. The SAA is special to them because it provides the community extensive programs including the MG Nelson Gallery exhibits, the Art Outreach programs in local schools, and the historic Edwards Place preservation. The Beaux Arts Ball is a favorite of theirs having become a Rolf family tradition over the years for their four daughters and the major fundraiser for SAA's community programs.Alexander Remington Kane is the son of Drs. Sandra Yeh-Kane and Gregory Kane. He is a senior at the University of Missouri, St. Louis, majoring in biology. He has been a proud member of the Tenth Illinois Volunteer Calvary (which is a nonprofit Civil War reenactment group dedicated to education) since age 14 and is presently a First Sergeant. Alexander has presented numerous educational programs for area schools with first person impressions of both Union and Confederate soldiers including Colonel John Mosby ("The Gray Ghost"). He rides into battle with his noble steed Dakota, a 12 year-old Missouri Fox Trotter. Over the years, he has participated in numerous historic events, Civil War Haunted Houses and fashion shows, ice cream socials and Lincoln Funeral fundraisers. The Regiment was part of the honor guard for the historic Lincoln Funeral that was held in May. He is honored to serve the Edwards House with its rich history and to be this year's King. Alex's parents, Greg and Sandy are both so proud of the SAA and its great and noble work in educating the future and preserving the past. Their involvement has mainly been promoting and renovating the Edward's House, which they feel is a National Treasure, and helping promote it to National prominence during the Lincoln Funeral Reenactment. The Beaux Arts Ball raises funds for the SAA's operating expenses and provides an exciting venue to honor the families and volunteers who generously support the SAA with their time and talents. Proceeds from the Ball help serve more than 100,000 people in Sangamon County and surrounding communities with first rate art outreach programs, classes, special events, lectures and camps. The SAA's newest addition, the M.G. Nelson Family Gallery, hosts brilliant exhibits from local, national and international artists. The SAA also preserves and maintains the historic Edwards Place, the oldest home in Springfield and the Michael Victor II Art Library. For more information, visit the Springfield Art Association website at www.springfieldart.org.Tickets for the Jewel Ball are $125 for adults and $50-$75 for children. They must be purchased in advance by calling 217-523-2631. The deadline for dinner tickets is November 13, 2015. Tickets for the dancing portion featuring music by DK Money may be purchased at the door for $5 beginning at 9 p.m. Plan now to invite your family, friends and neighbors to be a part of this exciting traditional gala!
LOCATION: Crowne Plaza Hotel (3000 South Dirksen Parkway Springfield, IL 62703) WEBPAGE: http://www.springfieldart.org/ CONTACT: (217)523-2631 TICKET PRICE: Tickets for the Jewel Ball are $125 for adults and $50-$75 for children.

November 29
3rd Annual Nativity Tour (4:00 - 6:00pm; DECATUR) Over 400 Nativity displays, the largest Nativity display in Illinois, with live music and refreshements. LOCATION: First Baptist Church (1320 Arbor Drive in Decatur, IL)

November 30
Holiday Card Photo Op (5:00 - 8:00pm; CHAMPAIGN) Reservations available starting Friday, August 21, 2015 (at the box office only) We're opening up the Virginia's beautifully decorated Mezzanine Lobby for family photographs! Call our box office (356-9063) and reserve your 15 minute slot. Free to attend. Bring your own camera or arrange to have a professional photographer meet you at the theatre. LOCATION: Virginia Theatre (203 W. Park Ave. in Champaign, IL 61820)
WEBSITE: www.thevirginia.org/ CONTACT: (217)356-3053

ONGOING EVENTS -

Trivia Night (Sundays at 7:00pm; CHAMPAIGN) Drop in every Sunday evening for a fun-filled session of trivia, hosted by Big Dave. www.cowboy-monkey.com/ LOCATION: Cowboy Monkey, 6 E Taylor St., CHAMPAIGN Contact: (217) 398-2688

Monday Storytime (11:00am; CHAMPAIGN) Join us every Monday morning at Barnes & Noble Booksellers (65 East Market View Drive, Champaign, IL) 11:00 am for Storytime!Blue Monday (8:30pm; SPRINGFIELD) At this weekly event, local and national blues artists will perform at the Alamo II (115 N. Fifth St, Springfield, IL). www.icbluesclub.org/ (217) 523-1455 Entry: $2

Grief Support Group - Healing Grief, Finding Peace (Fridays, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM; SPRINGFIELD) a weekly seminar/support group sponsored by Staab Funeral Home for people grieving the death of someone close. At this healing place, you'll learn valuable information that will help you through this difficult time in your life. Fridays, September 18 - November 20, 2015. 10:00 - 11:30 am, Westminster Presbyterian Church, 533 South Walnut Street, Springfield. People of all faiths are welcome. For more information call 217-483-1224. No cost or obligation.

October 16 - December 4:
Art Exhibition Series
The Springer Cultural Center (301 N Randolph St., Champaign, IL 61820) offers local and regional artists a professional venue in which to display their work. These exhibits bring new life and vitality to the facility and expose patrons to new techniques and ideas. Artists will have the opportunity to give a brief talk about their work and the inspiration behind it at the artist reception. Exhibition applications are accepted on an ongoing basis and we are currently seeking artists for the 2016 Spring and Summer Seasons. Applications are available at Springer Cultural Center or online at champaignparks.com/art-exhibits.
FALL ART EXHIBIT - "Sibling Rivalries": A Brother & Sister Show
Featured Artists: Nick Cragoe - ink, gouache, and cut paper
Katie Cragoe - watercolor and cut paper
LOCATION: Springer Cultural Center
Questions: michelle.olden@champaignparks.com or 217-819-3909 or visit champaignparks.com

Lincoln Home Tour (8:30am - 4:30pm; SPRINGFIELD) A ranger will lead this guided tour of the Lincoln Home at 413 S. Eighth St., Spfld, IL
More information: www.nps.gov/liho/ or call (217) 492-4241

Peoples of the Past (8:30am - 5:00pm; SPRINGFIELD)
Life-sized dioramas and finely crafted artifacts bring to life Illinois' rich Native American heritage at the Illinois State Museum (502 S. Spring St., Springfield, IL)
More information: www.museum.state.il.us or call (217) 782-7386; FREE

A Place for Discovery (8:30am - 5:00pm; SPRINGFIELD) Touch, explore, listen and create in this hands-on children's gallery. Children of all ages can investigate and discover the mysteries of art and nature at the Illinois State Museum (502 S. Spring St., Springfield, IL)More information: www.museum.state.il.us or call (217) 782-7386.

Morton D. Barker Paperweight Collection (8:30am - 5:00pm; SPRINGFIELD) Over the course of twenty years, Morton D. Barker (1888-1967) of Springfield, Illinois, amassed a large and prestigious collection of paperweights, most of which were created in post-Napoleonic era France. Highlights from this stunning collection have been reinstalled in new cases designed by Joe Hennessy and built by Paul Countryman of the ISM staff. (502 S. Spring St., Springfield, IL)
More information: www.museum.state.il.us or call (217) 782-7386.

Changes: Dynamic Illinois Environments (8:30am - 5:00pm; SPRINGFIELD) At 'Changes' visitors will see, hear and touch Illinois' natural history through engaging hands-on interactive displays, audio and video effects, thousands of authentic fossils and more. Marvel at all the strange and intriguing species that once inhabited Illinois through a multitude of life-size dioramas. Touch a beaver's fur or the skull of a Giant Short-Faced Bear. Travel through a mine, a glacier tunnel and a cave. Push buttons to light up different species on display and pull out the illuminated drawers to test your own scientific knowledge and skills. Learn how human actions affect the environment and gain a deeper understanding of how evolution has affected life on earth since the beginning of time. People of all ages can see the changes for themselves as they travel through time and Illinois' ever-changing environments.
More information: www.museum.state.il.us or call (217) 782-7386.

Anthropology Exhibit (8:30am - 5:00pm) These case exhibits focus on archaeological and ethnographic topics and artifacts such as Native American pottery, basketry, weavings, weapons and tools.
More information: www.museum.state.il.us or call (217) 782-7386.

Transient Journeys: The Life and Music of Harry Partch (ALL DAY at 236 Harding Band Building, 1103 South Sixth Street, Champaign, IL)
Harry Partch (1901-1974) was a composer, music theorist, instrument maker, and performer whose vagabond nature inspired him to explore the musical roads less travelled by his contemporaries. Alex Ross wrote in 2005, "Of all the triumphantly weird characters who have roamed the frontiers of American art, none ever went quite as far out as the composer Harry Partch." Partch's maverick tendencies and his rejection of traditional Western-European performance practices inspired his experimental music creations which often integrated ancient Greek, African, and Japanese theatrical arts with innovative uses of human speech and musical pitch, harmony and rhythm. This exhibit explores through photographs, music and words the musical choices that mattered most to Harry Partch.
More information: http://archives.library.illinois.edu/sousa

Lincoln: From History to Hollywood (4:00pm - 12:00am) features key sets, props and costumes from the DreamWorks film "Lincoln." The exhibit is on display at Historic Union Station, just across the street from the presidential museum. The station serves as an annex to the presidential museum, where visitors can tour the exhibit and see video presentations about the movie. Location: Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library (212 N 6th St, Spfld, IL)
More information: call (217) 558-8844

At Home in the Heartland (8:30am; SPRINGFIELD) Listen to the stories of real people who lived in Illinois. Immerse yourself in the dramatic changes in household life over the past 300 years. A powerful look at Lincoln's greatest words and how they helped end slavery in America. "Undying Words" explores the most important speeches of Lincoln's career, showing how his views on slavery evolved as he sought to hold the country together. One hundred fifty years after the Civil War ended and Lincoln died, this exhibit shows what was at stake for the slaves, soldiers and families caught up in the crisis Lincoln devoted himself to ending. Visitors will see more than 120 documents and artifacts related to Lincoln and his biggest speeches. The items on display include a copy of the constitutional amendment ending slavery, the bloody gloves Lincoln carried when he was shot, a carriage used by the president and his wife in Washington and the bed where Lincoln died after lingering for nine hours. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library (212 N 6th St, Spfld, IL) More information: call (217) 558-8844

Toddler Tales (9:45am - 10:05am; CHAMPAIGN)
Offered at the Main Library every Tuesday at 9:45, 10:15, and 10:45 am (and at the Douglass Branch every Friday at 10:30 am). Toddle in for stories, songs, rhymes, and activities designed to introduce pre-reading skills to children aged 18 to 36 months, with their parent or caregiver. LOCATION: Main Library, 200 W. Green St. , Champaign, IL More Information: 217-403-2030

Attachment (9:00am - 5:00pm; CHAMPAIGN) This exhibition from the Krannert Art Museum's (500 E. Peabody Dr., Champaign, IL) permanent collection will consider the material and affective bonds between artist and subject, artwork and viewer, museum and object. In addition to works from the decorative arts, African, and ancient Peruvian collections, artists in the exhibition include Hans Bellmer, Louise Bourgeois, Willie Cole, Marlene Dumas, Jess, Annette Lemieux, Danny Lyon, Lorna Simpson, Andy Warhol, Carrie Mae Weems, Purvis Young, and Illinois-based artists Conrad Bakker, Frank Gallo, and Melissa Pokorny. www.kam.uiuc.edu/ (217) 333-1861

Nnenna Okore: Nkata (9:00am - 5:00pm; CHAMPAIGN) Born in 1975, Nnenna Okore's work focuses broadly on the concepts of recycling, transformation, and the regeneration of forms based on observations from ecological and manmade environments. She is drawn to naturally ephemeral materials and the conditions that cause them to degrade. Provisionally titled "Nkata," an Igbo word for both "conversation" and "basket," the KAM exhibition will feature new fiber work inspired by this double meaning, and will explore the broader implications of using materials as metaphoric strategies and temporal frames. Okore is a professor of Art at Chicago's North Park University, where she teaches sculpture. LOCATION: Krannert Art Museum (500 E. Peabody Dr., Champaign, IL) www.kam.uiuc.edu/ (217) 333-1861

Tamarind Institute and the Rebirth of Lithography (9:00am - 5:00pm; CHAMPAIGN) In the late 1950's, the artist June Wayne became aware that the technique of lithography - a printing process in which one draws onto a stone where ink is absorbed and repelled throughout to create an image - was gradually dying in the United States. After securing funding from the Ford Foundation, the Tamarind Lithography Workshop, Inc. (later, Tamarind Institute, when it moved from Los Angeles to Albuquerque) was established in 1960. Wayne and others associated with Tamarind wanted to push lithography beyond its limits and described Tamarind as a place to: train a new generation of master printers, entice some of the finest artists to experiment with lithography, establish ethical standards, develop markets, and, in Wayne's words, "restore the prestige of lithography by actually creating a collection of extraordinary prints." This exhibition will feature works by such varied artists as Garo Antreasian, Elaine de Kooning, Roy DeForest, Robert DeNiro, Sr., Rafael Ferrer, Françoise Gilot, Matsumi Kanemitsu, Nicholas Krushenick, George McNeil, Kenneth Price, Deborah Remington, Ed Ruscha, and June Wayne.
LOCATION: Krannert Art Museum (500 E. Peabody Dr., Champaign, IL) www.kam.uiuc.edu/ (217) 333-1861

School of Art & Design Faculty Exhibition (9:00am - 5:00pm; CHAMPAIGN) This exhibit showcases current creative practices of the excellent artists, designers, educators, and art historians who teach at the school. The work is as varied as the many programs in which the faculty teach - from painting, printmaking, ceramics, sculpture, photography, jewelry, and metalsmithing to new media, graphic design, industrial design, and more.
LOCATION: Krannert Art Museum (500 E. Peabody Dr., Champaign, IL) www.kam.uiuc.edu/ (217) 333-1861

Encounters: The Arts of Africa (9:00am - 5:00pm; CHAMPAIGN) Dedicated to KAM's African Art collection, this recently renovated space invites visitors to see exhibited objects not only as visually compelling works of art in their own right, but also as objects of encounter that can "tell" stories about the broader social contexts and often fraught global histories through which they have journeyed. The gallery is organized thematically and many displays include touch screens that contain video clips of artist interviews, masquerades, and descriptive vignettes. These bring the "telling" of African stories into the museum experience and draw out resonances among the objects on view.
LOCATION: Krannert Art Museum (500 E. Peabody Dr., Champaign, IL) www.kam.uiuc.edu/ (217) 333-1861

North of the Northern Lights: Exploring the Crocker Land Expedition 1913-1917 (Time varies by day; URBANA) In 1913, the University of Illinois co-sponsored a scientific expedition to Northern Greenland. Presented a century later, archival photographs and ethnographic artifacts document the intersection of the lives of the Polar Inuit and the American scientists. The Museum invites visitors to consider how aspects of this encounter fit into our current understanding of the study and representation of indigenous peoples. Open during Museum Hours: Tues: Noon - 5 pm, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday: 9 am - 5 pm, Saturday: 10 am - 4 pm, Sunday: Noon - 4 pm. Closed Mondays. LOCATION: Spurlock Museum, 600 S Gregory St, URBANA, IL)