Good morning, Decatur.

Business leaders, nonprofits, and government officials met in Mount Zion on Thursday at the State of the Community event hosted by the Decatur Regional Chamber of Commerce, where Decatur Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe praised U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin’s past work that brought federal funds even as he announced he will not seek re-election. Local officials also discussed key projects—including road and bridge improvements, housing developments, and a superintendent search at DPS61—to spur further growth in the area.

Decatur Police installed a 30mph speed monitor in a neighborhood after six-year-old Noah Edwards died on April 10 when an SUV struck him while he crossed near his bus stop at Packard and Oakland Street — a local resident who started a petition with over 450 signatures said she hopes additional measures will further protect students.

On April 23, Gov. Pritzker cut the ribbon on the new Clean Energy Innovation Hub at TCCI Manufacturing in Decatur, where electric compressors will soon be produced, a training academy will begin this fall, and a climatic testing center is set to open in spring—with the project receiving $21 million in state support and REV credits of up to $2.1 million. This hub, which also earned a $625,000 EPA grant, marks a new step for clean energy and job growth in Illinois.

The Governor Richard J.

Oglesby Mansion and Museum will host an Open House on Sunday, April 27 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at 421 West William Street in Decatur—adults are asked to donate $5 and children $2 while visitors explore the restored dining room and period artifacts.

A bill that will require 9-1-1 dispatchers to teach CPR over the phone passed unanimously in the Senate and now goes to the House floor — the new rule is expected to help more people get aid during heart emergencies.

Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton launched her campaign for the U.S. Senate and said she will focus on the middle class and stand up against attacks from national figures.

She promised to fight every day for the people of Illinois in Washington.

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.

Boots On The Ground Country/Urban Line Dancing Party

7 p.m. — 12 a.m. — 400 E Eldorado St, Decatur, IL — Ages 21+ — Dust off those boots and hit the dance floor for an exciting night of country and urban line dancing with a live tutorial.

Rock Springs Ramble 5K Run/Walk

8 a.m. — Rock Springs Conservation Area — Registration details pending — Lace up for a community-friendly 5K run or walk in the scenic Rock Springs Conservation Area.

On-Site Tour at Glenwood Supportive Living

9 AM - 7 PM — The Glenwood Supportive Living of Mt. Zion — Free entry — Explore a community focused on exceptional care and friendly living for seniors.