Good morning, Normal.

Rural King celebrated its 65th anniversary in Mattoon and plans to expand to 150 stores in 17 states by the end of the year—owner Alex Melvin said the company will keep investing in its people and community while preserving its strong rural roots.

A 23-year-old man from Crystal Lake was detained in McLean County Jail after police found over 40 pounds of cannabis and more than $100K in cash at a Bloomington apartment—he now faces multiple drug and firearm charges in court.

Waiting Room Records will host its 4th annual free music fest We’re Just Trying to Do Something Nice, Okay? at Connie Link Amphitheater at 5 p.m. on August 30 to raise donations for Clover’s Cat Club—an animal rescue service in Normal.

Organizers say local bands including Blind Baby and Chicago post emo band Frontega will perform to support the event.

Illinois State University started its new College of Engineering with its first day of classes and guest speakers on Monday in Williams Hall.

There are 171 students in electrical, mechanical, and general engineering and the renovated lab building will open in the summer — offering tools for new student projects.

Bloomington high schools in Unit 5 and District 87 started the year with new cellphone policies, with District 87 banning phones all day and Unit 5 allowing them in class only when teachers give permission.

The updated rules will require students to keep devices away during lessons — teachers now have clearer enforcement measures — while parents are urged to help set boundaries.

The alley entrance at Montgomery Street — River Landing Street in Normal will be closed next week for repairs.

A bridge in West Township — a key route for local travel — will be out next month for construction.

The Town of Normal announced that beginning 7 a.m. Monday, August 25, an alley entrance between Montgomery Street and River Landing Street will be closed for pavement repair.

Town officials urge drivers to use caution and said repairs are expected to finish by 2 p.m. Friday, August 28, weather permitting.

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.