Good morning, Decatur.

Local volunteers are preparing for the upcoming WSOY Community Food Drive by gathering supplies & organizing efforts this week.

Photos show community members working together to support neighbors as the event approaches.

Central Illinois school students must provide proof of immunizations and a completed physical exam (with a lead screening for children seven and younger) by Oct.

15 for enrollment in PreK, Kindergarten, 6th grade, 9th grade, or as new students per Decatur Public Schools.

Ameren is reminding residents to keep generators outside during outages following a summer of strong storms to prevent electrical backfeed (which can put workers at risk).

The utility stressed that proper connection of backup power is essential.

Ameren warns Decatur residents today to operate backup generators carefully to avoid sending electricity onto power lines and endangering utility crews; customers should follow manufacturer instructions and hire a qualified electrician for installing a transfer switch + proper extension cords.