Good morning, Normal.

The McLean County Chamber of Commerce will host its 2025 nonprofit showcase in Bloomington from 8 to 10 a.m. on Thursday, Oct.

16.

Longtime TV weather reporter Chuck Collins is set to retire on October 15 after 50 years at WEEK-TV—serving viewers in Peoria and Bloomington-Normal—and he said he will spend more time gardening and working with the Ian Fleming Foundation with his wife.

Rabbi Rebecca Dubowe of the Moses Montefiore Temple in Bloomington-Normal said she hoped the ceasefire that halted the war in Gaza would mark a first step toward lasting peace in the Middle East—she added that more work was needed to build understanding among different groups.

The Town of Normal has been named a Bird City by the Audubon Council of Illinois for planting native plants and adding a water feature at Connie Link Amphitheater—an honor given at last week’s city council meeting that recognizes the town’s strong conservation efforts and active bird watching community along the Mississippi Flyway.

The Police Department has renovated its Wellness Center—adding a new gym and locker rooms—to improve officer health and morale.

The Bloomington Bison will begin their second season at Grossinger Motors Arena on Oct 18 with new defensive players who can move the puck to boost fast, exciting play, *Head Coach Phillip Barski said*.

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.

2025 Pumpkin Smash

10 AM – 2 PM — Rader Family Farms — Check website for costs — Smash pumpkins and learn about environmental impact through fun activities.