Good morning, Bloomington.

Volunteers will gather on Sept.

27 from 9 a.m. to noon to remove invasive plants along Sugar Creek in Bloomington-Normal as part of the Sugar Creek Stewards initiative.

Charlie Schlenker, a renowned journalist with WGLT, retires Sept.

30 after 42 years; he is honored with a reception from 4-6 p.m. tomorrow at WGLT studios in Normal as colleagues share memories of his thorough interviews and mentorship.

Mixed-media artist Selina Trepp presents her first solo exhibit, Unprofessional Practices, at University Galleries in Uptown—running through Oct.

3. The show features stop motion films, paintings and interactive events including a lecture, drop-in poetry and a workshop.

The Children’s Discovery Museum will host a free Day of Play on Saturday, Sept.

26 — turning Uptown Normal into a vibrant playground where families can explore STEAM projects, art activities and more.

Unit 5 students are using new makerspaces at both district high schools to turn digital designs into physical projects with 3D printing and laser cutting today.

The facilities are intended to boost hands-on learning and creativity in the community.

Illinois Wesleyan University will host Whataburger CEO and alumnus Debbie Stroud as the next guest speaker in its Distinguished Speaker Series, where she will share insights from her business career.

County superintendents said the 1% School Facilities Tax passed in April 2025 and in effect since July has lowered property taxes and added counselors, social workers, and security officers in local districts (including Unit 5 and Olympia).

They stressed the funds are vital for school safety and mental health support.