Good morning, Normal.

Billy McMacken bought the Normalite Newspaper Group and now owns eight papers, planning to grow print editions by adding pages and full-time staff—he aims to boost local sports coverage and legal ads for more revenue.

He said his approach will focus on community reporting and smart spending to keep local news strong.

At Monday’s Town Council Meeting, councilmembers unanimously approved adding 342.28 acres to the enterprise zone to boost local economic growth — a change meant to offer state and local tax breaks while leaving property development choices to zoning rules.

Classes started on Aug.

18 at Illinois State University, and dorms remain over capacity with many students living in lounges; the university has emptied over 50% of lounge areas and is offering a $250 credit to affected students—plans to build additional housing will develop over the next few years.

Illinois State University is one of several public universities joining One Click College Admit, a statewide program led by Gov JB Pritzker that lets high school seniors and community college transfers be accepted by meeting only a grade point average requirement—application fees, essays, and recommendation letters are waived. Students who are juniors for fall 2027 will have until May 22nd to opt in—schools will report grade point averages for review.

Illinois State University is facing cooling outages in many campus buildings—flooding in Williams Hall has forced it to remain closed at least through the rest of the week.

Facilities are working to restore cooling, and most buildings except for the MCN Simulation Lab and parts of Williams Hall are expected to be back online before noon today.

Today the town of Normal received funding through an Ameren Illinois program to begin its transportation electrification plan—an effort that will support the installation of electric vehicle charging stations for improved local travel.

The Normal Fire Department is accepting applications for a firefighter/EMT position and will keep the posting open until Wednesday, September 17th at 5:00 p.m.

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.

Paint Nite at BloNo Pizza Co.

6:30-8:30 p.m. — BloNo Pizza Co. — Supplies included — Create memories and masterpieces while being guided by a professional artist.

Hello Bob Live Concert

11 PM — Uptown Circle — Free entry — Enjoy 80’s alternative hits performed by local band Hello Bob.

Day of the Dozer

10 AM – 4 PM — McLean County Fairgrounds — Adults are FREE — Kids get to drive heavy construction equipment with professional guidance in a safe environment.

Family Paint Party

6:30-8:30 p.m. — BloNo Pizza Co. — Tips appreciated — Create memories and masterpieces at this family-friendly paint night led by a professional artist.