Good morning, Decatur.

On September 24, 2025, Matt Fairchild of Hickory Point Bank and Tara Murray of Empowerment Opportunity Center joined Byers & Co—discussing how bank employees support groups like the center and previewing an upcoming fundraiser event.

On September 24th, Clay Gerhard from the Decatur Park District joined Byers & Co—discussing Matilda, Boo at the Zoo, Sports Sampler, the Devon season's end and the success of Zoorific.

The Decatur Christmas Parade is now accepting entries, and participants must submit a registration form with a $25 fee by November 19 to benefit Freedom Reins.

The parade will take place on December 6 in downtown Decatur with a $500 prize for the best float and will include the new Fleet Feet Santa Run ending at Decatur Brew Works.

Downtown Decatur will host the 7th annual Farm to Fund event on Saturday, Sept.

27 from 6-10 p.m. — Merchant Street will be turned into a long dining table where people will gather to help raise funds for financial assistance, food support and poverty help.

Local by the Lake is planned for October 3 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at The Beach House and will benefit the Empowerment Opportunity Center by featuring Central Illinois farm-fresh ingredients, breweries, wineries, and live music from Fun with Bick & Jane — tickets are available at prices from $50 to $300.

The Governor Oglesby Mansion and Museum will host its first-ever pop up history event on September 27th from 10-2 at 421 West William St in Decatur.

Visitors will enjoy free carriage rides starting at the mansion, children will get flat Lincolns, and light refreshments will be served with donations accepted.

Decatur Public Schools began its search for a new superintendent as community members demand commitment and transparency—school board officials said the process will include input from parents and staff.

Decatur Public Schools board approved the FY 2026 budget which will not include the COVID emergency relief funds that schools used during the pandemic—this removal of funds marks a shift in the district's funding as it prepares for future fiscal planning.

Millikin University will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct.

3 to unveil its new $12.3 million David J. & Debra C. Rathje Athletic Center during Homecoming festivities in Decatur—student-led tours and a reception will follow.

Eisenhower High School will name its press box in honor of the late Scott Busboom—who called over 1,200 Decatur high school games during his radio career—to recognize his lasting impact on local sports broadcasting.

A Decatur columnist explained that keeping the mayor, city council and city manager in balance is key for smooth local government operations — he noted that police secured the newspaper office during a meeting with Congresswoman Budzinski amid threats and recalled memories of local landmarks that mark the city’s changes. His column is available today in both print and online editions.

The Illinois Department of Central Management Services is expanding its Intern to Hire Program in partnership with the Illinois Department of Transportation to include engineering roles—offering structured paid internships that will lead to full-time state jobs for aspiring civil engineers.

The Illinois Department of Public Health is urging residents to take steps to avoid tick bites after an Illinois resident became seriously ill with a tick-borne illness not seen before — officials are investigating if the exposure happened locally or in another state and stress using EPA-registered insect repellent and safe trail practices. Health officials also recommend wearing light-colored clothing and staying in the center of trails to reduce the risk.

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.

Autism Awareness Walk: Donuts for a Difference

9 AM – 12 PM — Fairview Park — Free entry — Enjoy delicious donuts while supporting autism awareness and acceptance in the community.