Good morning, Normal.

Country Financial, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, began as Farmers Mutual Reinsurance Company in Chicago in 1925 and moved its headquarters to Bloomington in 1961 — a move that brought 800 new jobs and spurred local housing developments.

A history program with Bill Kemp will be held Tuesday, Sept. 16 at the McLean County Museum of History.

Three men, including two from Bloomington-Normal, were released before trial after police seized two guns (with extended magazines), money, narcotics, and a vehicle used in alleged criminal activity during a July 17 traffic stop on Interstate 55 near Pontiac with preliminary hearings scheduled for July 23 in Livingston County Court.

Women and nonbinary individuals are learning essential workplace skills at Dreams Are Possible in Bloomington, where small classes run on Tuesdays and Thursdays with sessions on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Jaleesa Owens, a mother of three, said she plans to continue her studies at Heartland Community College after finishing her course—she earns a minimum wage check for each session attended that builds her technical and leadership abilities.

Terrific Tuesday with the Illinois Shakespeare Festival

10:00 – 10:40 AM — Connie Link Amphitheatre — Free entry — Enjoy a lively performance combining tales from Hamlet and A Midsummer Night’s Dream for young audiences.

Cowboy Boots Night at The Corn Crib

6:30-8:00 p.m. — The Corn Crib — Various prizes available — Celebrate with the Corn Belters and enjoy a night filled with fun and family-friendly activities.

Emmett Isabel Osorio Live Concert

11 PM — Uptown Circle — Free entry — Experience heartfelt music dedicated to empowerment and memories in a beautiful outdoor setting.