Good morning, Decatur.

Innovafeed has paused operations at its Decatur facility, and Economic Development Corporation president Nicole Bateman confirmed that most employees have been relocated (affecting a handful of people) to avoid more job losses.

The suspension is expected to last about a year or two while the company continues to focus on its commercial operations.

On August 4, 2025, the Decatur Sister Cities Committee dedicated a new sculpture in Central Park to honor cultural ties as local artist Darren Miller created the piece celebrating friendship with Tokorozawa in Japan and Seevetal in Germany — six visiting high school students from Tokorozawa attended the ceremony. The program was partially funded by grants from national and state arts agencies.

The Decatur Regional Chamber of Commerce will host the 14-week Decatur Leadership Institute starting this month—applications for the program that offers 15 Thursday sessions, hands-on learning projects, and a graduation ceremony are accepted until August 8 with fees set at $750 for members and $950 for non-members.

A new law now allows Illinois municipalities and fire districts to charge fees for lift assist services—covering non-emergency calls at assisted living and nursing home facilities that exceed six calls per year.

The fees must match actual personnel and equipment costs and will take effect on January 1.

Memorial Health is partnering with public libraries in Decatur, Jacksonville, Lincoln, Springfield and Taylorville to distribute free family mental health kits that include books on emotions, worksheets for breathing and grounding, and coloring pages to support mental wellness.

The kits are available without a library card for anyone aged 3 or older and can be checked out for two weeks—offering local support for families.

Memorial Health is partnering with public libraries in Decatur, Jacksonville, Lincoln, Springfield and Taylorville to distribute free family mental health kits that include books on emotions, worksheets for breathing and grounding and coloring pages to share local support resources. The kits are available without a library card, can be checked out for two weeks and are designed for individuals aged 3 and older—part of a regional effort addressing mental health needs identified in the 2024 Community Health Needs Assessment.

Memorial Health named Dr. Ted Clark as senior vice president and chief clinical officer on August 5th, effective August 4th—he will lead the medical group, behavioral health, and safety teams—and he served as chief medical officer at Decatur Memorial Hospital since 2020.

On August 5, 2025, Byers & Co went to EP Field to cover the 10th anniversary of the 217 ALZ Wiffleball Tournament and interviewed board members and local sponsors to highlight the event's history and community impact.

The podcasts detailed the story behind the tournament and set the stage for continued local support.

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.