Good morning, Decatur.

Mt. Zion Intermediate School installed 4 new basketball hoops in memory of 10-year-old Jack Brinkoetter after donations from families + local businesses; the court, named Jack’s Court, will have a public dedication soon as the community honors his love for basketball.

Nonprofit Dove Inc. announced Monday that Kyle Karsten is its new chief development officer and will lead efforts to expand fundraising, raise awareness, and build local partnerships to support individuals and families facing hardships.

His appointment is expected to strengthen the nonprofit's community impact.

The Good Samaritan Inn in Decatur serves hot meals every day as federal SNAP cutbacks push more residents in need; Mercy Gardens, established on six acres donated by the city, grows fresh vegetables and invites visitors Thursday, Sept.

10 (4-6 p.m.) with plans to sell mums and pumpkins to raise funds.

On September 1, a new marker was unveiled at the corner of Merchant and Main Streets to honor Decatur entrepreneur Samuel Houston Singleton (1848–1926) and highlight the lasting impact of Black business owners on our community.

Natalie Beck from the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation, Stacey LeFeber of the Girl Scouts, and Shelith Hansbro joined Byers & Co to announce that Shelith was chosen as the 2026 Diamond Honoree for the Lead Like a Girl event held on Sept.

1.

A data center presentation in Decatur turned contentious as committee members debated eight weeks of research on guidelines and cost-sharing for Macon County’s electric grid, while residents questioned the approach amid rising frustrations.

Dr. Jeffery Alexander from Foot And Ankle Center joined the Pharmacy Facts with Friends podcast on Sept.

1 to discuss diabetic foot ulcers and the warning signs to monitor. The podcast is available for streaming + it offers clear advice for patients.

Tom Brinkoetter from Brinkoetter Realtors joined Pharmacy Facts with Friends on September 1 to share his monthly housing update and stress the importance of correct square footage measurements for local homes.