Good morning, Decatur.

On May 8, the History of the Heartland commissioned a limited-edition elongated coin featuring an image of an iconic Wabash Diesel Engine that honors Decatur’s railroad legacy.

The coin will be given free to the first 20 attendees at Historic Preservation Week events from May 12 to May 18+.

Millikin University will hold its final Public Observation Night on Tuesday, May 13 from 7:30–9:30 p.m. on the roof of the Leighty-Tabor Science Center—guests can enter via the southeast door off Fairview Avenue to enjoy free stargazing with top telescopic equipment, weather permitting.

Today, the Decatur Police Department promoted Erik Ethell to Deputy Chief of Administrative Operations—he will succeed Brad Allen, who was appointed Police Chief, as Ethell brings 17 years of service since joining in May 2008.

On May 8th, former mayor Paul Osborne joined Byers & Co to discuss the financial importance of tourism, Farm Progress, God’s Shelter of Love, political theatrics, and a downtown market legacy—points he said underscore key issues in local financing.

HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital AthletiCare will offer $25 cash sports physicals on-site for student athletes in grades 5, 7, 8, 10 and 12 during the school year, with events starting May 12 at Unity Christian School, followed by sessions at Mt. Zion High School on May 30, Warrensburg-Latham High School on June 13 and MacArthur High School on August 11+ the Stone Thrown Forward Foundation will provide additional heart screenings as needed.

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.

Open Mic Night with Bob Besser

6-9 p.m. — Golden Fox Brewing, LLC — Free entry — Bring your talents to a fun night of music, comedy, and poetry at the monthly Open Mic.

John Drake Live Performance

3-6 p.m. — Golden Fox Brewing, LLC — Free entry — Enjoy a live performance by John Drake at this inviting local brewery.

The Big Run - Decatur, IL

11 PM - 3 AM — Fleet Feet Decatur — Free entry — Celebrate Global Running Day with a 5K race and community festivities.

Hardy's Race for the Lake

High-speed boat racing action — June 7-8 — Lake Decatur — Free entry — Experience the thrill of the APBA Inboard Eastern Divisional Boat Race amidst a vibrant community atmosphere.