Good morning, Decatur.

Decatur Community Action Team (CAT) arrested 38-year-old Shady W.

Abdallah after tracking him into Decatur following a high-speed pursuit; he has about 27 prior arrests including charges for drug-induced homicide, burglary, narcotics offenses, and methamphetamine-related crimes.

Students at St. Patrick School in Decatur watched the white smoke on Thursday that signaled cardinals elected Pope Leo XIV, and teachers quickly announced extra prayers and special celebrations in class.

Local residents expressed excitement over the new pope’s Chicago roots—an unexpected link that has brought hope and local pride to their church communities.

On May 9th, Caterpillar Facility Manager Gaurav Pareek and MacArthur High School student Jayden Drake joined Byers + Co to discuss the Career Pathways program, and Drake was offered a full-time position by Caterpillar upon finishing his studies.

On May 9, the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation awarded a $150,000 donor advised grant to Decatur Public Schools 61 Prep Academy to honor its first graduating class of 25 students who earned both a high school diploma and an associate’s degree from Richland Community College.

The award adds to nearly $400,000 in donor support since 2021 and will help fund the free Prep Academy program for students.

On May 9th, 2025, Macarthur High School principal Cordell Ingram and seniors Lily Rinchiuso, Rahged Qatou, and Adrianna Hammons joined Byers & Co for a podcast that discussed graduation, their special class, and plans for the future.

At a Richland Community College banquet on May 8, 25 of the 48 Prep Academy students from Decatur Public Schools received both a high school diploma and an associate degree after completing dual credit courses at their high school and college.

Jenna Jones-Payne said the rigorous program built her time management and independence — key skills for future success — and the graduates will attend college and high school ceremonies on May 16 and May 17.

Erik Ethell was promoted to Deputy Chief of Police by the Decatur Police Department after 17 years of service.

He began his new role as Deputy Chief of Administrative Operations on May 9 — succeeding Brad Allen, who is now Police Chief.

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.