Good morning, Normal.

Normal is hosting its 30th annual Haunted Trail this October—the Scary Haunted Trail runs on Oct 24 and 25 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. and the Not-So-Scary Trail is set from Oct 16 to 18 from 6 to 8 p.m.—while nearby haunted attractions offer more spooky events.

Normal's Water Department has issued a boil water order for dozens of addresses on West Hovey Avenue and South Adelaide Street after crews found an inoperable water valve during repairs.

Water samples have been sent for testing—officials say the order will lift once the water is declared safe.

Today, the town of Normal finished its quick build projects that cut pedestrian crossing lengths by about 50% by closing part of School Street between College—Mulberry, and it is gathering community feedback until December to decide which projects will remain.

The project details came from the town’s Pedestrian & Roadway Campus Safety Initiative, which has received mostly positive reviews despite some driver complaints.

Carlock resident Desi Anderson held a joint press conference with state and national lawmakers on September 26 to announce proposed legislation limiting the sharing of student directory data by more than 40 colleges and universities with political groups + the complaint filed with the U.S. Department of Education has not yet been reviewed as lawmakers push for stronger privacy protections.

The Mt. Hope-Funks Grove Fire Protection District was awarded a $65,000 federal grant to replace its eight-year-old Stryker power load and power cot system, ensuring safer patient transport and meeting EMS standards—this funding will help reduce manual lifting and prevent responder injuries. The district also thanked Dan Rogers for his guidance and FEMA for its support.

Rep. Darin LaHood said Congress passed a clean continuing resolution without spending add-ons to avert a government shutdown and urged officials to rely on evidence-based science for decisions on vaccines and Tylenol.

He supported targeted foreign aid to bolster allies and counter China’s influence — while warning against risks to core government functions.

Beginning at 4 a.m. Monday, September 29th, a southbound lane reduction will affect North Towanda Avenue between East College Avenue and Fort Jesse Road for pavement repair — drivers should use caution while driving in the area.

The lane reduction is expected to end by 12 p.m. Tuesday, September 30th, weather permitting — full lanes will resume after then.

Illinois health officials have recommended that all adults get the COVID-19 vaccine this fall—defying CDC guidance—and Gov. Pritzker has issued an executive order based on a 20-member Immunization Advisory Committee's advice to protect residents.

State Rep. Hauter, however, warned against mandates and said he will watch how schools handle vaccination records.

Oktoberfest Rotary Run

2-4 p.m. — Union Park — Fundraiser entry — Participate in the Annual Oktoberfest 5K Run and 1 mile Fun Walk to support local youth services.