Good morning, Decatur.

Decatur Park District unveiled a new playground yesterday at Fairview Park that replaces the outdated 1995 facility and features climbing structures, a Ninja Warrior-style obstacle course, a timed 40-yard dash, a sports ball wall, and inclusive play areas.

The $1.5 million project—supported by $600,000 in OSLAD funds championed by State Representative Sue Scherer and additional donations from local families—boosts outdoor recreation for children and families.

Decatur police responded to a report of an armed robbery at Garfield Park at 8:30 p.m. Monday+ investigators are gathering evidence from the scene.

Decatur mom Amber Marie Brooks received the Spotlight on Achievement Award on June 10 in Springfield for her work at Baby TALK—she was one of a few statewide winners recognized by the Secretary of State’s Office—and her award reflects her strong determination to overcome challenges as a single mother.

Decatur Public Schools will welcome 70 new teachers this fall as the district works to fill vacancies amid a nationwide teacher shortage.

Among the new hires, 44 international teachers will join as part of an effort to bring skilled educators to local classrooms.

On June 10, 2025, Andrea Gerhard of the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation joined Byers & Co to discuss new scholarships, record award totals for schools, and plans for a celebration for adult scholarship recipients; the discussion explained how the funding will help both students and adult learners in our community.

Crossing Healthcare launched Crossing Kids on June 10—its new pediatric service that now offers a full team with pediatric walk-in care, faster and evening appointments, coordinated newborn care, well visits, immunizations, chronic care, and school physicals.

The service also provides onsite lab and imaging services and accepts employer health plans, Medicaid, and Medicare.

Pro tennis returned to Decatur as the Fairview Tennis Complex hosted its first women-only tournament with over 50 players from different countries competing on Tuesday.

The event continues through June 15 — players vie for ranking points and a top prize over $4,000 amid strong community support.

Boat racing returned last weekend to Lake Decatur when over 50 teams competed in Hardy’s Race for the Lake—Jeff Corrigan drove 11 hours from South Carolina and saw his boat Fat Chance II lose power due to engine trouble—and racer Grant Hearn won the Eastern Division title.

Organizers plan next year’s national race for early June—studying this year’s event that drew nearly 7,000 people and helped local vendors be better prepared—and aim to build on the race’s growing reputation.

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.

Band On The Run - Tribute to Paul McCartney

7-8:30 p.m. — Lincoln Square Theater — Cost information not specified — Experience an electrifying tribute to the legendary sounds of Paul McCartney & Wings.