Good morning, Bloomington.

A garage fire occurred Saturday morning in Normal without causing any injuries — two dogs were evacuated from the home.

Illinois State University Family Weekend began Friday and continues through today—featuring a free family photo station near Hancock Stadium, planetarium shows, and a sold-out football game—that has drawn families from Chicago and Springfield to support their students.

Visitors also enjoyed campus tours and local dining as they spent quality time together.

McLean County students from 3rd to 12th grade will begin receiving mental health screenings in the 2027-28 school year, with ISBE covering all costs per new law guidelines issued in September 2026.

Some school districts may seek waivers for the tests—offering flexibility as they adjust to the process.

University of Illinois Extension hosted Nature Trails Day at Comlara Park on Sept.

20th to teach children about nature—volunteers led activities like electro fishing and making squish-balls to help kids learn about water, soil, and wildlife.

ParkLands Foundation received nearly $81K from the Illinois Natural Areas Stewardship Grant program — the funds will aid natural area management.

Yesterday, the ISU Big Red Marching Machine moved through the tunnel ahead of the Redbird football game as part of the university’s family weekend.

McLean County School District Unit 5 board unanimously approved boys’ volleyball and girls’ flag football for the 2026-27 academic year during Wednesday night’s meeting at Normal Community High School and Normal West High School.

More than 2,000 students expressed interest as schools begin seeking coaches to lead the non-competitive programs—marking the local debut for boys’ volleyball.

Heartland Community College has opened registration for the Harvest 5K—scheduled for noon Sunday, Oct.

26 at its main campus on Raab Road in Normal.

Illinois District Barbershop Harmony Society Fall Convention

2:30 PM - 11:00 PM — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — Passes available for purchase — Enjoy a weekend filled with barbershop harmony and musical performances.

Oracle Sisters Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — The Castle Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting sound of Oracle Sisters with their dreamy melodies and new album release.

A.J. Croce Presents CROCE PLAYS CROCE

7:30-9 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $38.00+ — Experience a musical odyssey with A.J. Croce as he performs timeless songs and stories from his father's legacy.

Great Pumpkin Hunt WEEK 1

11 AM - 9 AM — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — Free entry — Participate in a fun pumpkin hunt with clues leading to decorated pumpkins across Bloomington Parks.

The Rocket Man Show

6-8 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $24.00+ — Experience an electrifying tribute to Elton John's greatest hits with Rus Anderson as your guide.

John Cleese: Not Dead Yet!

7:30-9 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $49.75+ — Celebrate 50 years of Monty Python with John Cleese in a night of absurdity and humor.

Napoleon Dynamite 20th Anniversary Celebration

7-8:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $24.00+ — Celebrate the beloved indie classic 'Napoleon Dynamite' with a screening and lively discussion featuring cast members.

Bommer with Special Guest XaeboR and Support from GramGreene

8 PM – 2 AM — The Atchison — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of exciting live music with Bommer, XaebyR, and local talent.

Adam Wainwright Event

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $19.00+ — Celebrate the baseball legend Adam Wainwright as he transitions into music with his debut record.

Iowa Heartlanders Opening Night

7-8:30 p.m. — Grossinger Motors Arena — Free with ticket — Celebrate the season opener with a White Out party featuring pre-game festivities and giveaways.