Good morning, Decatur.

On March 4, Clay Gerhard spoke with Byers & Co about the new Little Hoopsters program for homeschool kids, the countdown to the local Splash Cove opening, and fresh concert shows at the Devon.

Jersey Mike’s will open its new Decatur store at 230 W.

Mound Rd. on March 11. The restaurant will partner with local nonprofit Macon Resources to donate 15% of sales + provide $3 sub cards during its opening week.

Ameren Illinois began upgrading nearly six miles of natural gas pipeline on Decatur’s east side on March 4; the first phase upgrades 2.4 miles serving 170 customers and should finish by early June, plus a second phase for 270 customers will start mid-April with temporary lane closures if weather allows.

A traveling mobile theater honoring the Tuskegee Airmen + Women Airforce Service Pilots will be hosted at the Macon County History Museum from Tuesday, March 10 to Sunday, March 15, showing two films and offering an immersive airplane cockpit experience with free admission.

On March 4, 2026, Matthew Flaten of Millikin and student Oakley Tate appeared on Byers & Co to discuss the annual Honors Convocation, Annual Awards, and the Scovill Prize — sharing insights about Tate’s experience at the university.

Memorial Health is providing free colon cancer screening kits at drive-thru events across central Illinois, including Friday, March 13 at Crossing Healthcare Drive-Thru (990 N.

Water St). Anyone 18 or older can pick up a kit while supplies last.

DMH CEO Tanya Andricks and Dr. Ranjodh Singh joined Byers & Co for a podcast discussing colorectal screening, hospital technology improvements and Dr. Singh’s journey back to Decatur.

The conversation was recorded on March 4.

Coach Gay Kintner, Decatur high school basketball legend known as the Master of March Madness, died during halftime in 1960 yet still inspires local fans.

The new Stephen Decatur High School honored him by naming its gym after his championship-winning legacy in the 1970s.

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.

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.