Good morning, Decatur.

Ashton Dukeman of the Macon County Conservation District previewed the 41st Annual Astronomy Jamboree at Friends Creek Conservation Center on August 7 — he joined Byers and Co to outline details about the event.

Kerion P. Overstreet, 26, attacked a shopper at a Decatur grocery store on July 30 and was arrested at 12:19 p.m. after fleeing a theft—he faces charges of criminal sexual assault and aggravated battery and will be evaluated for mental fitness before his court hearing on Aug 20.

On August 7, 2025, former mayor Paul Osborne joined Byers and Co to discuss the Do Something Great Awards ceremony and his lifelong passion for telling positive stories and modern journalism.

On August 7th, Senator Doris Turner announced that eight school districts in Central Illinois will receive over $3 million in additional evidence-based funding to help meet enrollment, poverty, and special education needs.

The extra funds will supplement base state support and aim to improve local education quality—benefitting students in the coming year.

Decatur Public Schools District #61 will start its 2025-2026 school year Wednesday, August 13.

Other central Illinois districts will open on August 14, 18, 20, or 26, while Pawnee schools started on August 14, 2024 — check with your school for updates.

Decatur officials announced that the Staley Boat Ramp will close Monday for renovations that will replace it with a longer ramp with a lower slope and add improved shoreline stabilization and landscaping — boaters should use ramps at Nelson Park, Faries Park, or along Lake Shore Drive until the work is finished by early November.

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.