Good morning, Decatur.

Eisenhower High School Marching Panthers are seeking community donations to cover travel costs for a five-day educational trip in 2026 to historic Hawaiian sites, including a performance at the Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade.

Supporters can credit individual students to win a prize + help offset expenses.

A local Salvation Army branch found a 1926 gold eagle coin worth about $4,000 in a red kettle outside a nearby Sam’s Club on Saturday — a welcome boost amid holiday fundraising challenges after severe weather.

GT Church, with First Christian Church and Macon Resources, will host Night to Shine, a prom style celebration for special needs individuals on Friday, Feb.

13 from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. Attendees can enjoy music, dancing and a red carpet welcome; registration is open.

Decatur small business owners face challenges as The Art Farm closed last May and All Things Beautiful Gift Boutique will close around March 2026 due to weather issues and online competition.

Owners stress that local support can help sustain the community's businesses.

Decatur Public Schools currently hosts nearly 60 international teachers from a federally recognized cultural exchange program.

The initiative, part of a five-year effort that began in Peoria, brings experienced educators from abroad to teach and share their culture with students.

On December 22, fire officials advised residents to water live trees away from heat sources, keep candles away from flammable items, and stay in the kitchen during cooking to avoid home fires.

They urged checking smoke detectors before gatherings — steps meant to keep homes safe during the holidays.

Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs encouraged residents to gift Bright Start 529 college savings accounts as a holiday investment in a child's future.

Contributions can be made via the ReadySave529 app (or online) to help cover education costs.

Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski secured $1 million federal dollars to repair and replace Harristown's water lines — a system over 50 years old — with work expected to begin within the coming year.

Hospital Sisters Health System limited visitors to two per patient starting Dec.

22 in its hospitals to cut cold & flu risks; visitors with symptoms and those under 18 are asked to remain home to protect patients and staff.

Paint and Electronic Recycling

8 AM – 12 PM — Macon County Environmental Management Recycling Center — Free drop-off — Dispose of your latex and oil-based paints, electronics, and more responsibly.