Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 9th of April.
Good morning, Decatur.
D1 Naz will host a community blood drive with ImpactLife on Wednesday, April 23 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at 1177 W.
Hickory Point Rd inside the lobby in Decatur — donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh over 110 pounds, and will receive a gift card, bonus points, or a donation to their chosen charity.
On April 5, the inaugural Decatur Pintwood Derby took place at Decatur Brew Works where 50 handmade cars raced and over 100 fans gathered.
Trophies were given in three divisions—Cub Scout Rules, Outlaw and All Show No Go—and all proceeds supported local scouting programs through camp scholarships, registration help and leadership training; the event will return in 2026.
Shemuel Sanders, executive director of Shemilah Community Outreach Center, learned in February that his building will be taken by the federal government on April 15 due to a fraudulent sale—forcing him to search for a new space to house 125 participants and store equipment and vehicles—while local groups offer temporary help and community support is sought to cover moving costs.
On Monday, an adult and two children were displaced after their apartment on the 4800 block of N.
Martin Luther King Dr. in Decatur caught fire at 3:49 p.m.—firefighters quickly put out the kitchen blaze and kept the flames from spreading as nearby units only suffered minor smoke damage while the family receives help from the Red Cross.
On April 7, the City Council approved a development agreement with KC Finds that offers a 50% sales tax rebate to support the retailer's investment and a contract with Paul Tree Farm to plant 185 trees using a USDA grant on City properties.
The Council also commissioned a four-month study to review employee compensation and classifications.
Drivers must have a REAL ID compliant license or another approved ID by May 7th to board domestic flights; people who recently moved or have not renewed their licenses should visit the DMV—longer lines are expected as the deadline nears.
This change may affect many travelers who are updating their documents.
Howard Buffett said his Decatur-based philanthropic foundation will pass $1 billion in aid to Ukraine this year during his 18th visit, and he stated that a peace deal with Russia is impossible—Putin does not want one.
He visited demining zones amid ongoing fighting to support Ukraine’s humanitarian needs.
On April 8th, Kyle May from Fleet Feet joined guest host Kevin Breheny on Byers and Co—he discussed new shoes, honored a team member, mentioned F1 racing—and outlined a 5K training program.
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.
Molly Hatchet Concert
7-8:30 p.m. — Lincoln Square Theater — $18-$75 — Experience the iconic Southern rock sounds of Molly Hatchet blending rock, blues, country, and gospel.
Blain’s Farm & Fleet 70th Anniversary Celebration
9 a.m. — Blain's Farm & Fleet — Check for details on savings — Celebrate 70 years of community service with fun demos, giveaways, and a chance to win a UTV.
True Blue Challenge
12 AM – 12 AM — Kirkland Fine Arts Center — Support our students — Celebrate Millikin University with a fundraising challenge for scholarships.
Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists Plant Sale
9 AM – 2 PM — Macon County Fair & Event Facilities — Free entry — Explore a variety of plants including annuals, perennials, houseplants, and more at this community plant sale.
Decatur Craft Beer Festival 2025
7 PM – 4 PM — Decatur IL Central Park — Tickets on sale soon — Enjoy a variety of local brews at Central Park in Downtown Decatur.
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