Daily
Decatur
Thursday, February 26th, 2026
Good morning, Decatur. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 26th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The annual Decatur Pintwood Derby returns Saturday, April 11 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m at Decatur Brew Works — featuring three race divisions that benefit local Scouting programs. Registration is now open. Now Decatur
- ➤ The Northeast Community Fund hosted a donation drive that welcomed Decatur residents who brought clothes and hygiene items until 4 p.m. today, raising $21,961 of a $25,000 goal—donated items will be provided free at a local clothing store. WAND
- ➤ Ronald McDonald House Charities recognized McDonald’s West Eldorado as the top Round-Up fundraising store among 100 stores in 2025, raising $16,411 to support families (Owner/Operator Andy Birschbach was named Round-Up Champ). A celebration will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27 at the restaurant in Decatur. Fox Illinois
- ➤ The Land of Lincoln Honor Flight is inviting local veterans and guardians to apply for future trips to Washington, D.C. on May 5, Sept 1, and November 3 - donations are needed to cover transportation costs and a compliant Real ID is required. Now Decatur
- ➤ Clay Gerhard of the Park District previewed upcoming family-friendly events including Kids Fest, Mommy Son Play Night, Heart and Soul has Talent, and Matilda the Musical Jr. + new shows at the Devon promise local fun for families. Now Decatur
- ➤ The Decatur St. Patrick's Day Parade is set for 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 14 downtown; Kate Wrigley Pletsch organizes the event + Vicki Wrigley serves as Grand Marshal in honor of her late husband. Decatur Tribune
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Millikin University previewed its upcoming production of The Great American Trailer Park Musical on Feb. 25 when Beth Creighton and students Cami Jones and Emma Schuth joined Byers & Co to discuss the show on a podcast. Listeners can access the episode online. Now Decatur
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Nicole Nash Moody was introduced Tuesday as the new Decatur Public Schools superintendent — surrounded by local family and friends, she called the appointment a homecoming that underscores her strong community ties. Herald & Review
- ➤ Decatur Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Rochelle Clark was honored Tuesday at a Black History Month event held at the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office in downtown Springfield where she received the Outstanding Commitment to Education award. The ceremony recognized eight Downstate leaders for their service in the community. Now Decatur
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ DMH CEO Tanya Andricks and Dr. Jordan Youngerman spoke with Byers & Co on Feb. 25 about quality care in surgery and plastic surgery; the podcast is available now. Now Decatur
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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.
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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.
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The Music of Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit and Rings of Power
4-8 p.m. — Kirkland Fine Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience an enchanting performance featuring the iconic scores from beloved fantasy films.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Desire is a contract you make with yourself to be unhappy until you get what you want.
~ Naval Ravikant
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