Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 29th of July.
Good morning, Decatur.
🏘️ Community
Darsonya Switzer was honored as the Ray Batman Nonprofit Professional of the Year at a BYers & Co podcast on July 28 — Missy Batman from the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation joined the discussion to spotlight her nonprofit work.
The Decatur City Council awarded up to $10,000 to eight local nonprofits to boost programs for families and children.
The Arts Council and the Children’s Museum will use the funds to lower costs for lessons and admissions.
💼 Business
ADM announced that Jeff Rowe will serve as the new executive vice president and chief operating officer—overseeing commercial businesses, global manufacturing and research and development efforts.
His appointment strengthens ADM’s leadership as the company continues to grow in Decatur.
🎭 Culture
Decatur residents can enjoy the 42nd Annual Astronomy Jamboree at Friends Creek Conservation Area in Argenta on Saturday, Aug.
8 from 8 to 11 p.m. Free event features live music by Jim Hollis + telescope viewing, children's crafts and hotdogs and s'mores, with pre-registration required by noon on Aug. 7.
The History Channel’s American Pickers is set to film in Illinois this September and is seeking submissions from individuals with private collections of rare items.
Producers stress that public collections (stores, flea markets, museums) will not be accepted.
🎓 Education
Millikin University and Bradley University announced a direct admission pathway for qualified Bradley undergraduates yesterday, July 28, with eligibility requirements including a 3.0+ GPA, resume submission and an interview to join Millikin’s hybrid MBA program starting in the 2026-2027 academic year.
Gov. Pritzker signed a law today banning cell phone use bell-to-bell (K-8, with high schools allowed phone use during lunch or passing periods) to help improve focus.
The Illinois State Board of Education will release a model policy Sept. 1, and schools must adopt their own rules by the start of the 2027-28 school year.
🏛️ Government
Drivers are advised to slow down on county roads today as tall corn stalks block views; Lt. Scott Flannery from the Macon County Sheriff's Office recommends reducing speed if less than a quarter-mile is visible & watching for farming equipment during harvest season.
🎉 Decatur Events
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Craig Campbell Concert
7 p.m. — Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of live music with Craig Campbell in Decatur.
Summer Hockey Camp 2026
8:30 a.m. — Decatur Civic Center — Check website for pricing — A high-energy week to elevate your hockey skills on and off the ice!
Foreigner Concert
7-8:30 p.m. — Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night with legendary rock band Foreigner in a perfect lakeside setting.
Cain Concert
7-8:30 p.m. — Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater — Prices range from $84 to $99 — Enjoy an evening of live music with Cain and the Band Reeves.
🏠 Decatur Real Estate
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💼 Decatur Job Board
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📣 Decatur Announcements
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