Good morning, Normal.

Illinois State University’s Horticulture Center will host an art event that honors indigenous culture by letting community members plant native species during a living land acknowledgement starting at 7 p.m. on June 20—stories, a bonfire, and s'mores will round out the celebration.

Heartland Community College’s Provost Dr. Rick Pearce is retiring at the end of June after 13 years of service — he helped expand career and technical programs to benefit students.

Interim provost Sarah Dillahunt will lead the college when a celebration is planned on Monday, June 23 to honor his contributions.

Big projects in Bloomington-Normal often face delays due to tough planning, funding gaps, and shifting public opinions—city leaders say delays in projects like the library expansion and Uptown Station show major community efforts take time.

Officials noted that these challenges require many tough conversations and clear priorities—future steps include proposals for high-speed rail.

Cecelia Long resigned from her Heartland Community College board seat, and applications to fill the position will be accepted until July 14th.

The Normal Town Council voted 5-2 on Monday to ban short-term rentals in single-family homes and duplexes while permitting them in multi-family and commercial zones—owner-occupied rentals may still operate in restricted areas.

The decision followed extensive public discussion that raised questions about the town’s process in addressing neighborhood concerns.

On Tuesday morning, OSF HealthCare unveiled an expanded intensive care unit at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center and added 25 new beds *with local leaders and community partners present.*

June is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and resident Brenda Malvolti at Sugar Creek Alzheimer’s Special Care Center in Normal is managing her Alzheimer’s diagnosis without letting it dim her vibrant spirit.

Her daughter shared that early forgetfulness led to the diagnosis (a sign of the need for careful care) and the family remains committed to supporting her each day.

Adie Mendez Live Performance

11 p.m. — Uptown Circle — Free entry — Enjoy a night of contemporary vocals from Chicago's Adie Mendez under the stars.

Terrific Tuesday: Who's There?!? by Illinois Shakespeare Festival

10:00 – 10:40 AM — Connie Link Amphitheatre — Free entry — Experience a lively 40-minute performance where Hamlet meets A Midsummer Night’s Dream in a family-friendly romp.