Good morning, Decatur.

Organizers in Decatur are finalizing plans for the 20th anniversary Farm Progress Show, which will run from August 26 to August 28.

Host farmer David Brix said landscapers, electricians and tent companies are busy setting up rides, drives and signage as the final month of preparations continues–work aimed at ensuring a smooth event.

Eric Halvorson of Kroger joined Byers & Co on August 1 to discuss the company’s commitment to the WSOY Community Food Drive as part of its Zero Hunger and Zero Waste program.

Gray Media will acquire WAND TV + two other stations in an $80 million deal from Block Communications announced Friday; the sale is expected to close in the last quarter pending federal review.

WAND TV remains a top-rated local NBC affiliate and has been partly managed by Block Communications since 2000.

Monticello police arrested two Decatur residents in connection with burglaries near the 1000 block of S.

Market St after video evidence linked a black truck registered to Kelsey Sandage (on pre-trial for felony charges) and led to the detention of Ronald Junior for possession of burglary tools, a controlled substance and trespassing as police continue investigating similar incidents.

Decatur schools saw the launch of IMPACT—an alternative education program by the Macon-Piatt Regional Office of Education that places liaisons in each school to help students with academic, attendance and behavioral needs while staying in familiar surroundings.

The spring pilot served five local schools and will expand this fall to two more districts before a full rollout in 2028-29.

Gov. JB Pritzker signed a law Friday to require that all new school buses in Illinois have three-point seat belts starting in 2031.

The law took effect immediately—buses bought before 2031 are not required to meet the new standard.

Today, runners from Monticello, Champaign, and Decatur began a 90-mile relay to raise funds for St. Jude Children’s Hospital—each participant pledged at least $1,000 as the team, which has raised nearly $700,000 over 13 years, looks to set a new record.

Re-Scheduled Rodeo

6-10 p.m. — Macon County Fairgrounds — Free entry and parking — Enjoy thrilling rodeo events including bull riding and barrel racing.

Farm Progress Show

8 AM - 2 PM — Progress City USA — Free entry — Experience the largest outdoor farm event with vehicle demos and expert advice.

Decatur Blaze Alumni Game

5-11:30 p.m. — Decatur Civic Center — Charity event — Celebrate the first alumni game while honoring Cooper Stewart's legacy with food, drinks, and personalized jerseys.