Good morning, Normal.

Irish tenor John McCormack performed at the old Coliseum in downtown Bloomington on November 24th, 1924, drawing 2,000 local citizens in a show compared in impact to a modern star’s concert.

His clear diction and stirring Irish ballads—celebrating heritage and nationalism—won the crowd, even as he critiqued the venue’s aging dressing rooms.

Communities along Route 66 host the annual Red Carpet Corridor Festival this weekend, with events including a mayor meet at Gardner’s 1906 jail, a pollinator info session at Miller Park Zoo at 12 p.m. today, and a dramatic reading by Nick Rynerson at Emerald & Amethyst at 1 p.m. today—each event offering a local way to celebrate history and art.

Data from the Economic Development Council shows child care in McLean County now costs more than rent or mortgage payments, with centers charging about $1,600 a month and home providers about $800—sometimes over $2,000.

Economic Development Council President Patrick Hoban said rising wages and worker competition are pushing prices up, forcing many parents to join long waiting lists for infant care.

Illinois State University has opened a new Vertical Farm in a repurposed shipping container on School Street where students can work hands-on while the facility grows cilantro for campus dining.

The 320-square-foot unit uses a hydroponic system and LED lighting to grow up to 4,600 plants with less water and fewer chemicals — officials said.

Gov. JB Pritzker named Rivian executive Julie Hoeniges to join the Illinois State University board of trustees—she is an ISU graduate with extensive trade compliance experience from her work at Rivian and Caterpillar and her appointment now awaits state senate confirmation.

Beginning at 4 a.m. Monday, lane reductions will take effect across Normal for pavement repairs—drivers are advised to plan extra time for travel.

Unit 5K Fun Run

2 PM — Maxwell Park — Registration fee required — Participate in the 4th Annual Unit 5K to support local education initiatives.

Monarch Butterfly Paint Nite

6:30-8:30 p.m. — BloNo Pizza Co. — Cost of supplies included — Unleash your inner artist while enjoying pizza and drinks in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.

Family Paint Party

6:30-8:30 p.m. — BloNo Pizza Co. — Cost of participation — Enjoy a fun-filled evening of creativity with guided painting and delicious food.

Paint Nite: Moonshine Mountains

6:30-8:30 p.m. — BloNo Pizza Co. — $45 per person — Unleash your creativity while enjoying pizza and painting your masterpiece.