Good morning, Bloomington.

The Great Pumpkin Hunt will return to Bloomington Parks this October—clues will be shared on Fridays and pumpkins hidden in local parks.

Families can join the hunt as the event runs throughout the month.

Illinois State University President Aondover Tarhule delivered the annual State of the University address in Normal, highlighting record enrollment, record fundraising, a new college of engineering launch, and a budget redesign process—while protesters briefly interrupted the speech by chanting about where the funds were going before being escorted out. The address outlined the university’s recent successes and upcoming plans to share preliminary results from the new budget model during the fall semester.

Construction on Hamilton Road is set to begin on Monday, Sept.

29 as crews start work between Bunn Street and Commerce Parkway—this phase will add pavement, sidewalks, new curb and gutter, storm sewers, a railroad crossing, and other improvements while keeping roads open, with impacts expected on Rhodes Lane between Bunn Street and Morrissey Drive.

Normal’s Water Department issued a boil water order for dozens of addresses on West Hovey Avenue and South Adelaide Street after repair crews found an inoperable water valve that needed fixing.

Water samples have been sent for testing — the order will be lifted once the water is confirmed safe.

Bloomington City Council passed a 1% local grocery tax this week despite initial doubts, and the tax will start next year to add about $3 million in revenue needed to support projects like road repairs and flood control.

City Manager Jeff Jurgens said the measure is part of a broader plan that includes improved oversight of video gambling licenses and a downtown sales tax rebate program for businesses affected by streetscape construction — details that aim to keep key city programs running.

Ryan Whitehouse, a 43-year-old leader with the Illinois Farm Bureau who improved public transit in Bloomington-Normal, died Sept.

24 in an accident in Michigan—local officials and colleagues remember him as a tireless public servant who left a lasting impact on our community.

Emergency managers in McLean County announced that recreational fires will be allowed in Bloomington, Normal, at Comlara Park and in the Mount Hope-Funks Grove district after rain improved conditions—however, the ban on yard, residential and agricultural waste will remain in other areas until Oct. 3—and residents are reminded to follow safety practices at all times.

Bloomington golfer Brandon Holtz won the U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship last week in Scottsdale, Arizona — earning an exemption into next year’s U.S. Open and the chance for a Masters spot.

He credited his strong driver swings and his father’s advice for guiding his performance.

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.

Oktoberfest Rotary Run

2-5 p.m. — Union Park — Fundraiser event — Participate in a festive 5K run and 1-mile walk to support local youth services.

Toledo Walleye at Bloomington Bison

7-8:30 p.m. — Grossinger Motors Arena — $3 Busch Light cans and $0 popcorn — Experience an exciting night of hockey and local fraternity competition at our first 309 Night!