Hello Decatur! Stay connected with the latest updates from around town. Let's dive in! ☀️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Free Bra Fittings to Support Breast Cancer Awareness and 10 more events.
Today's riddle: Riddle: David's parents have three sons: Snap, Crackle, and what's the name of the third son? 🤔 (Answer below!)
1. Millikin University Recognized Among Best Regional Colleges in 2027 U.S. News & World Report Rankings (decaturtribune.com) — Millikin University in Decatur has been ranked No. 4 among Illinois regional colleges in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report, reinforcing its reputation for strong academics and value. Leaders highlight the school's focus on affordability and performance-based learning, as Millikin also celebrates its largest incoming undergraduate class since 2019 and a notable rise in transfer and international students.
2. Decatur Public Schools' Roadmap 2030 Committee begins Phase IV (decaturtribune.com) — Decatur Public Schools is moving into Phase IV of its Roadmap 2030 planning, where a committee of staff and community members will shape a long-range facilities plan aligned with the district's new strategic goals. After earlier phases set mission, vision, and data scorecards, this next stage will tackle building use, efficiency, and equity, with the next committee meeting set for October 20, 2026.
3. Accused street racer runs but he can't hide, cops report (herald-review.com) — An accused street racer is alleged to have repeatedly sped through Decatur streets at up to 100 mph while successfully eluding police, according to a sworn affidavit. The story also looks back at historic photos of the Decatur Police Department, tracing how local law enforcement has evolved over the past century while continuing to patrol city neighborhoods.
4. Macon County Master Gardeners receive state award (heartlandnewsfeed.com) — Macon County Master Gardeners based in Decatur have earned a state teamwork award for Willy's Garden Week, a hands-on youth program hosted at the Decatur Public Library. The volunteers' efforts help local children explore gardening and nature while showcasing an educational model that state leaders say can be replicated in other Illinois communities.
5. Decatur detective's brushes with danger (herald-review.com) — A Decatur police detective's recent close call during a high-speed pursuit is highlighted through squad and body camera footage from a Sept. 15 incident on East Prairie Street. Prosecutors say the driver accelerated toward Detective Jason Hesse as he tried to deploy tire deflation devices, leading to attempted murder and reckless driving charges that the suspect has pleaded not guilty to.
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Ok Decatur! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: David (Thank you Thomas F. for sending it in!)
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