Good morning, Bloomington.

A women's group at ISU honored former student and Chicago police officer Aréanah Preston during a Walk for Preston at the ISU Quad, where her family and Bloomington Police Chief Jamal Simington joined to call for action against gun violence—an epidemic affecting the community.

Four teenagers were charged with first-degree murder and armed robbery in connection with her killing, and her family started a foundation in her name.

The final Land of Lincoln Honor Flight of 2025 will fly on Tuesday, Oct.

21 to honor veterans—organizers say it marks the last tribute flight of the month.

Sugar Creek Arts Festival will return to uptown Normal this weekend from 9 a.m.—4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct.

11 and Sunday, Oct. 12.

The town of Normal announced it is reducing lanes on East Mulberry Street from South Maple to North Walnut for pavement repairs that will finish by Oct.

13—drivers are urged to use caution.

A text amendment was proposed at McLean County’s zoning meeting to let homeowners place chicken coops 30 feet from property lines instead of 150 feet—easing chicken keeping on smaller lots.

Homeowners still must get permits and follow rules that limit chicken numbers based on lot size.

State Representative Sharon Chung announced a new round of electric vehicle rebates that will begin on October 28 and close on January 31—she said the new streamlined process will let more working families apply easily for clean energy support.

Normal Mayor Chris Koos said the town is planning a new TIF for Uptown because a developer said the current district is too short for the mostly residential and some commercial project— a public hearing is set for November.

He added the town approved an $8 million contract with Axon to improve the police records system after issues with McLean County’s management.

Carle Health will host the Spirit of Children benefit to support its Child Life Program; customers at Spirit Halloween stores — including one in Bloomington — can donate by scanning a coupon or entering promo code GIVING25 online, with the store matching 10% of purchases as donations. The fundraiser will help the hospital purchase toys and prizes that ease the medical experience for children.

Illinois State University students and staff are developing an AI system to detect atrial fibrillation as part of a federally funded project—this tool will help doctors identify heart risks for patients.

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!

Masters of Illusion

7:30-9 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $33+ — Experience world-class magicians performing astounding illusions and comedic magic live on stage.

Kalamazoo Wings at Bloomington Bison

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Grossinger Motors Arena — $3 Busch Light and $0 popcorn — Celebrate 309 Night with costume contests and great food deals at a thrilling hockey game.

Cincinnati Cyclones at Bloomington Bison

7-10 p.m. — Grossinger Motors Arena — Tickets available from $28 — Catch the thrilling match as the Bison take on the Cyclones in this exciting hockey showdown.

WAR: Why Can't We Be Friends? Tour

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $42.00+ — Celebrate 50 years of timeless hits with the iconic soul/funk group WAR.