Good morning, Normal.

Mike Holtz, owner of the famous Christmas House on Hovey Avenue, died unexpectedly on Friday—neighbors say his yearly light display will be lit this weekend to honor his memory and carry on his tradition.

The McLean County Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual agriculture awards dinner on Thursday, November 20, recognizing local agriculture leaders (honored by the chamber) for their contributions.

Communities in McLean and Livingston counties are preparing for Small Business Saturday with Bloomington, Normal and Pontiac planning events to boost local shopping.

Officials say each area will offer unique promotions—helping residents support local businesses.

Tom Doran, the Illinois AgriNews Field Editor, received the Illinois Soybean Association's Excellence in Media Award+he is one of five winners honored for 2025 achievements.

Shoppers in Normal will spend 4% less on Black Friday as rising living costs and tighter budgets lead to lower spending.

A Deloitte survey shows consumers will spend $622 between Nov. 27 and Dec. 1—factors that underscore economic concerns for the upcoming sale.

Illinois State University is raising funds for a plaza honoring nine historically Black Greek organizations on campus.

The campaign, which ends August 31, has raised $207,000 so far — leaving less than $100,000 needed to meet its $300,000 goal.

The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services launched new Medicaid coverage for parental home visits offering health education and screenings—while a Trouble in Toyland report raised concerns about unsafe toys.

The Department of Transportation announced that non-emergency construction lane closures will be suspended from 3 p.m. Nov. 26 to 11:59 p.m. Nov. 30 to ease travel.

The Town of Normal will collect only household waste and recycling on Thanksgiving Day and the day after, November 27—28, with bulk waste and brush pickup rescheduled for the following week.

Leaf collection will occur November 28—29, landscape waste pickup will end on November 26, and town offices will remain closed on November 27—28 for the holiday.

McLean County spent $150,000 from the shared sales tax fund to train 100 social workers and counselors in EMDR—a therapy used to ease anxiety, depression and PTSD.

All seats filled in less than a week, and county officials said more sessions may be offered next year to boost mental health care.

Heartland Community College won its first NJCAA Division II national championship in women’s volleyball on Saturday when the Hawks defeated Kansas City Community College in straight sets in Cedar Rapids, Iowa — sophomore setter Brooklyn Brennan earned Player of the Tournament honors and Sam Molenouse set the team’s all-time digs record.

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.

Santa's Station at Uptown Normal

1-4 p.m. — Uptown Normal — Free; donations appreciated — Experience holiday cheer with Santa, crafts, and music at his train depot.

Indiana State Sycamores vs. Illinois State Redbirds Men's Basketball

4-5:30 p.m. — CEFCU Arena — Watch live for free — Witness a thrilling college basketball matchup between local rivals.