Good morning, Decatur.

On October 3rd, Millikin University donated $8000 in cash and food to the WSOY Community Food Drive — reaching a goal of 5,000 pounds collected from students, faculty, staff, and alumni — to help fight hunger in Macon County.

On October 3, Kroger shoppers in Decatur helped raise over $8,000 by rounding up their August purchases, and the store brought the donation total to $10,000.

Kroger also donated $30,000—split between Crossing Prescription Garden Program and Northeast Community Fund—to help fight hunger and support local pantries.

The WSOY Community Food Drive is underway in Decatur and has raised $202,830 as of 8:00 a.m. Donors may give non-perishable foods & cash, checks & credit cards at Kroger on Rt.

36 or online.

Ameren’s electricity price dropped over 30% from summer rates—Citizens Utility Board urged customers to review their bills to ensure they do not overpay with an alternative supplier.

Teacher Sarah Pritts of Montesorri Academy for Peace won the first-ever Teacher Challenge at Kroger in Airport Plaza on October 3 by raising 1878 pounds of food to win a $1,000 prize, while Julie Keith of Maroa Forsyth Grade School earned a $500 prize and Traci Friel of Our Lady of Lords School received special recognition.

The Illinois Housing Development Authority allocated $2 million to Habitat for Humanity of Illinois to run a program that helps working families buy a home—aiming to create 100 new homeowners statewide.

The Illinois fall trout season begins October 18 at 60 ponds, lakes, and streams statewide with a daily limit of five trout—catch-and-release fishing will open Saturday at select sites.

All anglers must have an Illinois fishing license and inland trout stamp.

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.

Open Mic Night with Bob Besser

6 PM – 9 PM — Golden Fox Brewing, LLC — Free entry — Showcase your talent in music, comedy, or poetry at this lively community event.

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet

4-6 p.m. — Kirkland Fine Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a festive spectacle of dance and music in a magical holiday setting.