Good morning, Normal.

At the Central Illinois Regional Airport, military families honor fallen soldiers by hanging Christmas trees decorated with 500 ornaments—this display, led by America’s Gold Star Families and supported by local groups, will stay up through the new year to remind everyone of their sacrifice.

Musicos Por Justicia, a group of five bands, is hosting a fundraiser at The Bistro in Downtown Bloomington today to raise money for the WYSE food pantry that serves over 600 local families each month.

The event runs from 8 p.m. to midnight — a $5 cover charge will help fund essential supplies like fresh produce, canned goods, diapers, and cleaning items.

Bloomington-Normal mobile home residents are urged to know their rights under the Mobile Home Landlord and Tenant Rights Act and to get legal help when facing unfair rent increases or eviction notices.

Erin Duncan with Prairie State Legal Services and local housing advocates say early organization can protect residents—helping them navigate complex lease rules and avoid sudden fee hikes.

Allegiant announced it will launch a nonstop route from Central Illinois Regional Airport to Arizona in February 2026—providing a new travel option for local flyers.

Ajay Samant — dean of ISU's College of Business — said that Rivian's $4.6 billion contract for CEO RJ Scaringe boosted stock by 6% while Tesla's $1 trillion package had little immediate effect, noting both deals were designed to align executive pay with shareholder interests.

He added that these contracts rely on performance targets and detailed analysis to justify their high valuations.

A video from The Baby Fold explains new features for the Festival of Trees in 2025.

The event will include refreshed tree displays — interactive exhibits designed to engage local visitors.

Four McLean County educators were recognized by the Illinois Principals Association for their leadership in local schools — the honor highlights their impact in the Corn Belt region.

Illinois residents can now add their driver’s license or state ID to Apple Wallet to use their iPhone at TSA checkpoints at over 250 airports—Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias said the mobile ID program will soon expand to Google and Samsung Wallets while residents must still carry their physical ID.

Hovey Avenue will be closed on Thursday at 7 a.m. between Highpoint Road and Cottage Avenue for planned water system improvements—local traffic can continue while drivers on alternate routes are advised to use caution.

The work will finish by 5 p.m. on Friday.

The Normal Town Council voted 5—1 on Monday night to move ahead with plans for an outdoor gym at Rosa Parks Commons on East Raab Road in northeast Normal.

The National Fitness Campaign will contribute $60,000 to build the Fitness Court Studio while additional funds will come from local taxpayers, state grants, or private donors.

University High School won two state championships in two months.

In October, the boys golf team won a class 2A state title—while Saturday night the volleyball team beat Nazareth Academy in two sets and ended a 30-match win streak.

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.

NPC Mid-American Winter Classic

10 AM – 10 PM — Bloomington-Normal Marriott Hotel & Conference Center — Ticketed event — Witness amateur athletes showcase their skills in bodybuilding and physique competitions.