Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 17th of February.
Good morning, Decatur.
🏘️ Community
On Monday, Feb. 16, 2026, Dr. Juanita Morris joined Byers & Co to discuss Thee Morris Code — she outlined plans to boost community connectivity with diverse conversations, parades, and DCLI programming.
HSHS Home Care is hosting its annual 'Cram the Car' food drive by partnering with HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital on Thursday, Feb.
19 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to collect nonperishable items + cash donations for Catholic Charities in Decatur.
📰 Economy
Under a law passed in 2024, credit card companies in Decatur will no longer charge swipe fees on the sales tax + tip portions of bills starting July 1.
A federal judge approved the change, though banks plan to appeal the ruling.
🎓 Education
Decatur's Governor Richard J.
Oglesby Mansion will host its annual play 'Grant Visits the Oglesbys' for 5th graders from April 27 to May 1. Teachers should reserve class spots by calling Bill Horton at 217-791-0405; the event will include a tour and a history lesson on President Grant’s 1880 visit.
Jillian Garcia from Eisenhower High School won first place in the Regional Poetry Out Loud contest on Feb.
12 at the Hoogland Center for the Arts — she and second-place Ace O’Malley will compete in the state contest on Mar. 2 at 10 a.m.
On February 16, 2026, the Illinois State Board of Education honored nearly 450 educators, including EHS teacher Hannah Lybarger from Eisenhower High, with its annual Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards.
Governor JB Pritzker and state leaders praised the awardees for inspiring students and strengthening school communities.
🏛️ Government
Decatur Park District will host a hiring fair for part-time and seasonal positions at its spring and summer facilities.
Local job seekers can apply for opportunities as the park district prepares for a busy season.
The City of Decatur announced that Fairview Avenue/Route 48 will be closed starting Monday for a storm sewer installation—contractors will block the stretch between W King and W Eldorado Street until the end of April.
🏈 Sports
On Monday, Feb. 16, Kevin Breheny joined Byers & Co to review a busy weekend in sports, including local high school wrestling and the Soy City Buzz on First Mid Monday.
He discussed the schedule to keep fans informed.
🎉 Decatur Events
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Pirate & Princess Party
10-11 a.m. — Forsyth Public Library — Free entry — Enjoy games, crafts, and treats while dressed as your favorite pirate or princess.
2026 PBA Illinois Classic
3-5 p.m. — Victory Lanes - Decatur — Contact for spectator passes — Experience thrilling bowling with PBA legends at this exciting tournament.
🏠 Decatur Real Estate
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💼 Decatur Job Board
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