Good morning, Normal.

On November 2, 2025, the Normal Fire Department went to a mobile home fire where thick smoke and heavy flames trapped a child in a bedroom, so Lieutenant Matt Hill and Firefighter-Paramedic Nathan Riordan used hand tools to break through the wall—risking their lives to rescue the child who then received life-saving help from other crews.

The Salvation Army reopened its emergency winter shelter in Bloomington on Monday and plans to add space for 30 more people as colder weather and growing demand push service needs—guests can access showers, hot meals, laundry, and case management, and the shelter will stay open through mid-March.

Boys & Girls Club of Bloomington-Normal will host its annual Be Great Breakfast on Dec.

10 in Normal.

The Normal Public Library is hosting a presentation by a HoChunk Nation elder and former Bloomington-Normal resident on Starved Rock State Park history for Native American Heritage Month — the event will offer local visitors a chance to learn about the park's past.

Over the weekend, community members gathered at the McLean County Museum of History to honor loved ones during a Dia de Muertos celebration that featured music, dancing and a large community ofrenda display — decorated with marigolds, photos and candles.

Local organizations also offered resources and cultural activities to support the Hispanic community.

Connect Transit has released a new map and schedule to help riders use bus routes to reach nine local food pantries — the map shows each pantry’s location, hours, and the nearest bus stop, and printed copies will be available from bus operators and at the Connect Transit Office on Wylie Drive in Normal.

Residents in Bloomington say Veterans Parkway is unsafe since speeding and reckless driving make it hard for pedestrians to cross — a project is holding open houses, including one at the Public Library from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., and will survey locals until September to guide changes.

The proposals include either upgrading the six-lane road with added sidewalks and green space or reducing it to four lanes to slow traffic before the findings are shared with local councils.

2025 Pumpkin Smash

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

City of Bloomington Turkey Trot

9-11 a.m. — Miller Park — Free entry — A family-friendly event featuring runs and walks to kick off Thanksgiving Day.