Good morning, Normal.

Fairview Skatepark reopened Tuesday, July 22 with fresh smooth concrete and new features including ramps, rails, staircases, ground level mounds and a pump track that helps skaters gain momentum.

Local skateboarders including pros Jud Heald and Julia Brueckler gathered to try the park & enjoy free T shirts, mini skateboards and refreshments.

Residents in central Illinois can beat the heat by visiting cooling centers at libraries, fire stations, or community centers; options include sites in Bloomington, Canton, Peoria and other nearby towns—updated lists offer the current addresses.

At the McLean County Fair today, livestock owners used large fans and water to keep cows, lambs and horses cool after oppressive heat hit on Wednesday—owners say these measures helped the animals cope—and the fair will conclude on July 27 at 7 p.m.

The Illinois Shakespeare Festival is showing The Importance of Being Earnest, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Hamlet at Ewing Cultural Center in Bloomington and will run the plays in rotation until Aug.

2. Ticket sales have already exceeded last season’s with sold-out shows and ASL interpretation provided on July 25 and July 31—key details for theatergoers in our community.

The McLean County Regional Planning Commission is extending the public comment period on its draft regional land use plan until September 1 to address residents' concerns about growth affecting farmland.

The commission will hold open houses on August 7 at the Bloomington Public Library Community Room and on August 13 at the McLean County Highway Department—these sessions will help shape a revised second draft planned for late October.

Normal police have increased patrols on busy roads today during Illinois Speeding Awareness Day to help reduce accidents linked to speeding.

The department is focusing on key routes — Veterans Parkway and Main Street — where speeding contributed to 45% of motor vehicle deaths in 2023.

This summer, Bloomington-Normal offers many ways for families to beat the heat with outdoor dining, frozen treats, and indoor attractions.

Local spots like Medici and the Children’s Discovery Museum offer live music and dog-friendly patios — options that help everyone have fun.

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.

Corn Crib Pro Rodeo

7-9 p.m. — The Corn Crib — Family-friendly fun — Experience thrilling bull riding and bronc riding at this inaugural rodeo event in Normal, IL.