Good morning, Decatur.

The USDA has designated 25 Alabama counties, including Morgan, Lawrence, and Limestone, for emergency relief after a rainy spring hurt local farms — the funds will help farmers recover losses and cover extra costs.

Decatur City Schools has set aside about $10 million in fiscal 2026 to upgrade its 19 school buildings — the funding will support improved learning facilities across the district.

Gov. Ivey announced on September 26 that $1M in state funding will go to road and infrastructure projects in Cullman, Jackson and Morgan Counties—projects including full depth reclamation, street resurfacing and pavement repairs.

The funding is the final round granted under the ALDOT Annual Grant Program created by the Rebuild Alabama Act and comes with additional local dollars to complete the projects.

The Decatur City Council approved a $101.4 million fiscal 2026 budget on Friday— the second of two called meetings in three days.

The decision followed a brief public review and will set the spending plan for city projects in the coming year.

The Limestone County Health Department released food and lodging inspection scores for establishments inspected Sept.

15–19 in Athens — the scores ranged from 86 to 99 with some facilities, including Ninja Japanese Sushi & Steakhouse, showing issues like roaches and improper food temperatures. Health officials will require follow-up actions for critical violations found at several eateries while other establishments met required standards.

Yesterday at Madison County Elementary School in Gurley, eighth grader Josslyne Hulsey celebrated the end of her cancer treatment during a pep rally where she rang a bell and received cheers—Gurley Mayor Stan Simpson then declared September 26 as Josslyne Hulsey Day, and students raised more than $700 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital with $2 donations in a Hats On For Josslyne fundraiser.

On September 26, 2025, Spain Park beat James Clemens 28-7 in a game that showcased strong defense and effective scoring.

Decatur's Red Raiders earned their first win of the season by beating Lee 35—12 on September 26 in a closely contested football game.

FOX54 aired its First Down Friday Night segment on September 26th featuring high school football week 5 highlights—showing key plays and top performances for Decatur teams.

Madison Academy outlasted Arab —35-27— in a football game on September 26, and the Mustangs kept their win streak alive.

Ruthie Foster Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — The Princess Theatre - Center For The Performing Arts — Ticket prices may apply — Experience soulful music with Ruthie Foster as she delivers powerful performances.

Cupping with Silicone Cups Workshop

9 AM – 5 PM — Massage Therapy Institute — $200 — Master the art of silicone cupping and enhance your massage practice with new techniques.

Percussive Power: Unlocking the Benefits of Vibrational Therapy

9 AM – 3 PM — Massage Therapy Institute — $150 per person — Enhance your massage practice with masterful percussive therapy techniques.

River Clay Fine Arts Festival

9 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Decatur City Hall — Admission fees vary — Explore a vibrant artistic marketplace with live music, food trucks, and activities for all ages.