Good morning, Decatur.

Communities in Decatur will host a series of trunk or treat and neighborhood trick-or-treat events later this week, with gatherings scheduled at GT Church on October 29th, Decatur Library and other venues on October 30th, and a community event at Johns Hill Park on October 31st.

Organizers urge families to use safety tips—carry flashlights, add reflective tape to costumes, and inspect candy—to ensure a safe celebration.

The Salvation Army in Decatur will host a Veterans Stand Down event on November 14 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 229 West Main Street—veterans and their families will receive free meals, clothing, haircuts, health screenings, and information on housing, employment, and benefits.

A new natural gas plant in Decatur will be built by ADM, Broadwing Energy, and Google to produce over 400 MW and store CO2 underground (commercial operations will start by early 2030).

The project is expected to bring more high-tech businesses to the area.

Millikin Homestead will host a Civil War history event on November 9 with Dr. Eugene Watkins presenting from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. followed by an open house from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.—visitors can view Civil War artifacts and a historic mantel piece on display for the first time in Decatur, with a $5 admission fee that is waived for talk attendees.

Today, the Department of Agriculture announced that SNAP benefits will not be issued on November 1, leaving tens of thousands of households in central Illinois in hardship.

Governor Pritzker urged federal action and said families must rely on local food pantries as the state lacks funds to replace the federal support.

Byers & Co celebrated 100 years of WSOY with a visit to Brinkoetter Realtors — Ryan Campbell explained how the firm first launched its website in the early 2000s and now uses AI to help home buyers and sellers.

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.

Live Comedy Night at Golden Fox Brewing

7:30-10 p.m. — Golden Fox Brewing, LLC — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughs with 3 national touring comedians in Decatur.

50th Annual Turkey Trot

8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. — Fairview Park — Registration fee varies — Participate in a festive race with options for all ages including a virtual race.