Good morning, Decatur.

Michael Evans pleaded guilty to unlawful use of a weapon and violating state concealed carry laws on May 8 after he made threats and showed a gun at Argenta-Oreana Elementary School in December—conditions of his release bar him from contacting the school and require GPS monitoring.

Schools in District 186 and the Williamsville-Sherman School District have seen benefits from stricter no-phone rules that started before the 2024-25 school year to help students focus on learning.

Teachers noted that the new policies improved classroom control and led to more face-to-face conversations during lunch (rather than constant texting) while parents gradually accepted the change.

A judge today blocked Saint Teresa High School's attempt to stop Heritage Behavioral Health Center from expanding near the campus because the claim was too vague—now the school has 28 days to file an amended complaint.

Yesterday, Clay Gerhard from Decatur Park District joined Byers & Co to talk about how the district handled recent storms, the start of Devon season, Splash Cove memberships, plans for Lake Decatur, DISC Summer Day Camp and chorale performances at Fairview Park—adding insight into upcoming local projects.

The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that a patching and resurfacing project on Illinois 123 (stretching from east of Athens to west of the Interstate 55 Williamsville interchange) will begin Tuesday, May 27 and is expected to be finished by the end of August (with lane closures, flaggers, and traffic delays).

Local health providers including Cancer Care Specialists, Decatur Memorial Hospital & HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital are hosting a Cancer Survivors Picnic at Fairview Park on Saturday, May 31 from 1 to 3 p.m. to honor survivors with food provided by Notorious P.I.G. and music by Pizzazz.

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.

Jersey Tenors Concert

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Lincoln Square Theater — Check local listings for ticket prices — Experience a thrilling fusion of opera classics and rock hits from legends like Queen and Elton John.

Billy Currington Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater — Ticket prices range from $51 to $898 — Catch Billy Currington live in Decatur for a night of country music.