Good morning, Decatur.

Illinois People's Action protested outside Millikin University on Thursday to oppose ADM's planned CO2 project that they say could risk Decatur water safety—raising fears of contamination for people, animals, and plants.

The protest occurred during ADM's presentation at the Chamber of Commerce luncheon and followed a Facebook post about the company's earlier Safe Drinking Water Act violation.

Food insecurity in central Illinois reached historic levels as the Eastern Illinois Foodbank recorded increased demand and repackaged 20,000 pounds of food — enough for about 16,000 meals on Thursday at its Urbana facility.

The foodbank, which serves 21 counties, helped many families facing need.

On September 18, Aly Delatte from the Decatur Park District spoke with Byers and Co about the National Parks and Recreation Conference and previewed Zoorific Evening at Scovill Zoo.

The podcast offers details on upcoming park events for local listeners.

Tomorrow from 7—9 p.m., the Macon County Conservation District will unveil its new StarLab Planetarium at Rock Springs Conservation Area near Decatur, with guests needing to register for $5 by noon today.

Naturalists will lead telescope viewing, crafts, and s’mores activities as they celebrate space.

The Illinois Department of Transportation urges parents to attend National Seat Check Saturday on September 27 when free stations will help check that car seats are installed correctly for child safety.

Car seats must be rear-facing until age 2 and booster seats used until at least age 8 — safety guidelines that protect children — and parents are advised to secure their own seat belts.

Illinois marked two years since it eliminated cash bail yesterday under the SAFE-T Act—upheld by the Illinois Supreme Court in July after delays from lawsuits, the law aimed to base pretrial decisions on risk rather than money.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission found reasonable cause that Richland Community College discriminated against its former employee Jennifer Reichart when she opposed harassment concerns and retaliated against her.

The agency has invited the college to engage in conciliation—if a resolution is not reached, legal action may follow.

The annual Play Ball!

Sports Card and Memorabilia Show will be held on Saturday, October 4 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Decatur Civic Center — the free event is sponsored by History of the Heartland and will display vendor tables with sports cards and memorabilia.

Arts in Central Park

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Decatur IL Central Park — Entry fee varies — Explore a vibrant showcase of over 60 artists while enjoying live music and art activities for children.

2025 Hispanic Heritage Festival

2-10 p.m. — Nelson Park — Free entry — Celebrate the rich culture and heritage of the Hispanic community with music and festivities.

Platinum Rock Legends Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Experience electrifying performances from one of the greatest rock bands with stunning visuals and legendary hits.

Prairie Pedal Bicycle Ride

6:30 AM – 2:00 PM — Rock Springs Conservation Area — $35+ — Participate in a scenic bike ride while supporting wildlife conservation initiatives.

All Fired Up - A Tribute to Pat Benatar

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Decatur Civic Center — Ticketed event — Experience an electrifying tribute to Pat Benatar with her iconic hits and dynamic performances.

Rochester vs. Decatur Eisenhower JV Football Game

6-8 p.m. — Eisenhower High School — Free entry — Catch an exciting home game as Decatur Eisenhower takes on Rochester in junior varsity football.

Fight for the Kids 2 Charity Event

6-11 p.m. — Decatur Conference Center and Hotel Heliport — No refunds — An exciting charity boxing event aiming to support children's causes.