Summerguide | Thursday, May 23,2013

Summer Picks

Juneteenth CelebrationSaturday, June 15, and Sunday, June 16, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, making this year’s Juneteenth festivities

Summerguide | Thursday, May 23,2013

Decatur changes its image and its attitude

Rooted in history, growing in confidence, downtown leads a community renewal effort

By Margaret Eby

Decatur’s historic downtown is launching a new era. A new look, a hip attitude, fresh paved roads, restored storefronts and a refreshed self-image have made downtown Decatur the place to be any

Summerguide | Thursday, May 23,2013

A river runs through it

Peoria has something for everyone

By Bruce Rushton

Paris, New Orleans, London – many fine cities around the world are built on rivers. And that’s also true in Illinois, where Peoria offers a great opportunity for a weekend getaway or day t

Summerguide | Thursday, May 23,2013

Zoos and flowers in St. Louis and Chicago

By Cindy Ladage

Sunshine, flowers and, of course, furry creatures make kids and adults alike light up. This year winter’s grip was a tight one, increasing our longing to shed the coats and head outside. In earl

Summerguide | Thursday, May 23,2013

Loco-motion

Springfield’s race schedule is crazy!

By Patrick Yeagle

The gallons of sweat, aching muscles and months of training have led to this: race day. You’re at the starting line with dozens, hundreds or even thousands of other people, your mind amped up an

Summerguide | Thursday, May 23,2013

Summer theatrical fare covers all the bases

By Scott Faingold

No matter what your taste in theater might be, whether it’s light musical comedy, modern musical bombast, prize-winning drama, kid-friendly shows or Pythonesque parody, at least one of the regio

Summerguide | Thursday, May 24,2012

Calling all volunteers

By Neil Schneider

With summer rapidly approaching, Springfield residents will be planning various ways to spend their summer through activities like vacations and traveling. So, why not plan on spending a little time v

Summerguide | Thursday, May 24,2012

Release the beast

Biking, running, swimming and obstacle courses in the capital city

By Patrick Yeagle

With such mild and beautiful weather so far this year, it’s a great time to go outside and get some exercise. And while you’re at it, why not play in the mud?Springfield and the surroundin

Summerguide | Thursday, May 24,2012

Summer theater has something for everyone

By Cory Blissett

It’s that time of year again. Yes, ’tis the season for summer barbecues, local festivals and a boat on the lake. It also marks the start of a magnificent summer of local theater in central

Summerguide | Thursday, May 24,2012

Meet Me in St. Louis

By Cindy Ladage

Everyone has heard Julie Garland croon the tune, “Meet me in St. Louis, Louis, Meet me at the fair, Don’t tell me the lights are shining any place but there….” For those who w