Good morning, Decatur.

The Macon County Conservation District will offer two van trips this spring—one on March 30 to visit Black Hawk State Historic Site with guided nature trails, museum tours, and a Native American history presentation, and one on April 30 for a tour of historic homes in Springfield including the Dana Thomas House and Edwards Place Historic Home. Prices are $40 and $30 per person respectively—lunch is not included.

On March 16th, 2025, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources awarded over $99,600 in grants for field trips for more than 7,000 students from 32 counties including those from Dennis Lab School and Mt Zion High School.

Students will visit state parks, museums, and natural sites as part of trips funded by private donations from the Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Foundation plus the D.F. and M.T. Grohne Family Foundation.

After severe weather damaged Neoga High School and Neoga Elementary School, superintendent Kevin Haarman announced all district schools will remain closed through March 21 for damage assessment and planning.

The elementary school is expected to reopen next Monday while three options for the high school are being considered—using the north section, the community center or another facility—and the last day of school is now set for June 2.

The City of Decatur will conduct a prescribed burn at its sediment storage basin near Oakley from March 17 to March 21, 2025 at 6705 Angle Crossing Road.

Experts will manage the burn to reduce wildfire fuel—officials say safety measures will help keep smoke away from homes and roads.

City Manager Tim Gleason announced Neil Elder as the new Chief of the Decatur Fire Department on March 16, 2025 after he served 20 years including as Deputy Fire Chief of Operations.

Elder officially took over the role yesterday — succeeding Jeff Abbott who retired after 10 years leading the department.

Alice in Wonderland Jr - A Journey Through Wonderland

Alice navigates the whimsical world of Wonderland in this vibrant retelling featuring beloved characters and music from the Disney classic.

All American Circus

4:00 – 5:30 PM — Decatur Civic Center — $20 Adults, $8 Children — Experience the thrill of the circus with fun for the whole family!

Midwest Toy & Comic Fest Decatur 2025

10 AM – 4 PM — Decatur Civic Center — $5 at the door — A family-friendly convention featuring toys and comics for all ages.