Community Corner

🌱 Patch AM: What does losing Decatur’s only air ambulance base mean for emergencies?

Make time for Free Bra Fittings to Support Breast Cancer Awareness on the Decatur Patch calendar

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Tuesday September 22nd Patch AM
Tuesday September 22nd Patch AM (Patch graphic)

Greetings Decatur! We're your go-to source for what's happening in town. Read on to get plugged in! ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • What does losing Decatur's only air ambulance base mean for emergencies?
  • Were you near 16th and Lawrence when shots were fired?
  • How Project SAFER Spectrum could change emergency calls in Decatur

Also on today's calendar: Free Bra Fittings to Support Breast Cancer Awareness and 10 more events.

Today's riddle: What did one wall say to the other? 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

  • Tuesday: Mostly cloudy with a shower, with a high of 70 and low of 58 degrees.
  • Wednesday: Some sun, then turning cloudy, temps: high: 68, low: 57.
  • Thursday: Pleasant with periods of sun, with a high of 74 and low of 57 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Air Evac Closes Its Base in Decatur (IL) (jems.com) — Decatur has lost its only locally based air ambulance service after Air Evac Lifeteam closed its Decatur base, citing low flight volume and financial losses. While nearby bases in Mattoon and Effingham will still respond, local officials worry about longer response times even as Decatur Memorial Hospital says existing air transport partnerships should prevent delays for patients.
   

2. Two people hurt in Monday morning shooting, Decatur Police say (wcia.com) — Two men were wounded in an early Monday shooting near 16th and East Lawrence Streets in Decatur, with one undergoing surgery at Decatur Memorial Hospital and another treated at St. Mary's. Police say both were inside a vehicle hit by gunfire and are asking anyone with information to contact Decatur Police or Macon County Crime Stoppers.
   

3. Macon County launches Project SAFER Spectrum to improve first responder interactions with autistic community (wandtv.com) — Macon County's emergency management team in Decatur is rolling out Project SAFER Spectrum to help first responders better support autistic and neurodivergent residents during crises. Resource bags, training, and the Blue Envelope Project debut at an Oct. 12 event at Richland Community College, where families can meet responders, pick up materials, and learn about local support services.
   

4. Cops investigate after Decatur woman says she was kidnapped (herald-review.com) — Police say a Decatur woman sought help at a stranger's door Saturday night, reporting she had just been kidnapped, prompting an investigation. The piece also showcases historic photos of the Decatur Police Department, tracing how local policing, equipment, and patrols have evolved over the past century.
   

5. Millikin University announces 2026 'Forever Blue' Homecoming weekend (wandtv.com) — Millikin University in Decatur is gearing up for its 125th anniversary Homecoming weekend, "Forever Blue," from Oct. 2–4, with many events open to local residents. From ceremonies, tours, and Jazz on the Quad to tailgating and the Big Blue football game, neighbors can join alumni and students in celebrating one of Decatur's key institutions.
   

📸 Around Decatur

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • I'm looking for a female cycling buddy preferably nearby but willing to drive a bit.
    I would prefer someone who's available weekday mornings. Just for casual riding 10-20 miles at 10-13 mph. Fun & fellowship would be great! (Nextdoor South Shores)
  • Hey neighbors, God bless y'all.
    Have a great week. Check this song out. Super good it is hip hop (Nextdoor Lakeview)
  • Decatur Public Schools posted a job opening for Middle School Math Teacher for 2026-2027 School Year in Decatur. Apply here.
  • Decatur Public Schools District posted a job opening for Kindergarten Teacher for 2026-2027 School Year in Decatur. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Decatur here.

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: I'll meet you at the corner! (Thank you Gary M. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!

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