Good morning, Decatur.

A new book titled Archaeology of Illinois: The Deep History of the Prairie State offers a detailed look at over a century of archaeological research aimed at closing gaps in how Illinois history is taught—guiding readers to see how Native and European stories overlap and highlighting key sites like Cahokia Mounds. The volume is edited by Thomas Emerson and colleagues and is designed to help the public and K-12 teachers explore the state’s rich past.

Mattoon increased carbon filters and chlorine treatments at the water plant on July 11 to fight high algae levels that led to an unsafe water alert until tests showed the water was safe.

In Decatur, officials spent $92 million on a dredging program to cut farm runoff and plan to use more federal funds to keep the lake clean—steps taken to protect local water quality.

Weather officials confirmed that an extreme heat watch remains in effect for Central Illinois — dangerously hot conditions are expected today and tomorrow with heat indexes likely exceeding 110 degrees; residents should drink plenty of fluids, seek air-conditioned spaces, and avoid outdoor exposure during peak heat hours.

After a six-month pause, Decatur was awarded a $9.9 million federal grant for Jasper Street improvements that will add bike and pedestrian paths, new lighting, and traffic calming measures along a three-mile corridor.

City Council also approved a $30,000 contract with Starlight Creative Studios (for video marketing), rezoning a west-end property for apartments, and a tree removal contract as well as a minor change to council agenda reviews.

During Monday night’s council meeting, Decatur approved plans to demolish—or restore—13 unsafe and abandoned structures and begin the process for court-ordered demolition.

The council also finalized contracts with companies to demolish vacant buildings at 347 W. North for $28,500, 720 N. Edward for $24,000 and 242 W. Packard for $48,500.

Decatur residents head to local parks early as summer heat intensifies — visitors play miniature golf at Overlook Adventure Park and splash at Splash Cove to beat rising temperatures.

Parent Megan Trimby took her children to South Shores Park, saying they plan to enjoy outdoor slides before cooling off indoors.

Coffee and Company Networking for Business Leaders

8:30-10:00 a.m. — Eagle Ridge of Decatur — Free entry — Network with fellow business leaders while sharing faith in a supportive community atmosphere.

Lil Jon Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater — Tickets from $98 — Catch Lil Jon live for an unforgettable night of entertainment.

Founding Females® Meet Up

10:00 – 11:30 AM — Cass Concepts — Free entry — Engage in a supportive community of female entrepreneurs tackling business challenges together.

The Phil Collins Experience

7-8:30 p.m. — Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater — Ticket info not specified — Relive the iconic music of Phil Collins in an electrifying tribute performance.