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Articles by Cole Loiacano
Carle Health, home to nearly 500 veteran staff members, marks Veterans Day with flag raising
A small group gathered Wednesday outside Carle BroMenn Medical Center in Normal to raise the American flag in honor of Veterans Day. Dr. Robert Cavagnol, president of Carle Health's Bloomington-Normal service area, led remarks at the event. Cavagnol, who stepped into the role in February, is a Navy veteran who served as an active-duty trauma surgeon during Operation Iraqi Freedom. "Military service is really about sacrifice," Cavagnol said.
Students 'are not alone' after Halloween party shooting
Illinois Wesleyan University students are getting some help processing a range of emotions following a shooting at an off-campus Halloween party that left one dead and eight injured. IWU leaders gave faculty and students a lot of flexibility about holding or attending classes on Monday. Some classes were held; others were not. IWU leaders gathered feedback on Sunday from students, faculty and staff, and they "wanted the option to be together" Monday, an IWU official told WGLT.
Voters could face delays if an old signature doesn't match
Illinois is one of a handful of states that does not require photo ID verification at the polls. This begs the question: How do polling sites verify you are who you say? The answer is through signatures, either gotten through your original polling registration or updated through DMV records. Leaders of McLean County's two election bodies say although this expedites the process, for some voters it can also lead to an additional step due to unmatched signatures.
Voters could be turned away if an old signature doesn't match
Illinois is one of a handful of states that does not require photo ID verification at the polls. This begs the question: How do polling sites verify you are who you say? The answer is through signatures, either gotten through your original polling registration or updated through DMV records. Leaders of McLean County's two election bodies say although this expedites the process, for some voters it can also lead to being turned away due to unmatched signatures.
Man apprehended carrying ‘gun’ near Illinois State University campus
NORMAL, Ill. – Just after 10 p.m., a man was seen carrying what was believed to be a gun on North School Street. Multiple accounts saw the man approach sorority houses on the street, including Alpha Gamma Delta (AGD), which put the sorority on lockdown. The man was then seen riding away on a bike and was later apprehended near the McDonald’s on the corner of Beaufort and Main.
Illinois Symphony Orchestra trying something spooky on a bigger stage
The Illinois Symphony Orchestra [ISO] opens its 2026-27 season this week with some of classical music's spookiest selections. The orchestra plays at Illinois State University on Halloween night, officially christening the Performing Arts Center's Carole and Jerry Ringer Stage.
Georgia man gets life in prison for 2022 murder of a Peoria teen in Bloomington Original
McLean County Judge Jason Chambers sentenced Tomiyale Anderson, 23, of Hampton, Georgia to life in prison on Tuesday after a 2022 shooting at a Bloomington house party. Anderson, 20, at the time of the crime, was convicted of four counts of first-degree murder. As well as attempted first-degree murder and aggravated discharge of a weapon in August following the killing of 17-year-old Kanye Stowers.
Early voting options expand in Bloomington-Normal as election nears
Election authorities in McLean County say turnout has been brisk so far for early and mail-in voting. As of Thursday morning, nearly 10% of voters in McLean County - over 12,000 people - have already cast ballots for the Nov. 3 election. "Usually we average 50-60 voters a day by now. We have been averaging over 100 a day for two weeks," said McLean County Clerk Kathy Michael, whose office oversees elections in the county outside of Bloomington.
VisitBN secures $500K in state funding for Route 66 projects
Bloomington-Normal's convention and visitor's bureau is getting a half-million dollar boost aimed at McLean County tourism. VisitBN has won three state grants allocated for infrastructure, marketing and public art primarily focused on the county's presence along Route 66. In total, the awards will generate a total investment of $614,506 with VisitBN's required matching contribution of $118,405.
Ecology Action Center promotes recycling program and safe battery disposal tips
The Illinois Portable and Medium-format Battery Stewardship Act begun earlier this year requires Illinois battery retailers to also participate in stewarding safe battery disposal. It is spearheaded by the Battery Network in collaboration with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. This expands battery recycling efforts across Illinois, aiming to make them more convenient and safe for residents.
A four-legged deputy is hanging up the badge
The McLean County Sheriff's Office is celebrating the retirement of a celebrated four-legged officer. Shadow, from the county's K-9 unit, retired last week after more than eight years with the department. McLean County Sheriff's Office Sheriff Matt Lane gave a 10-42 over the radio last week, a formal send-off marking the end of an officer's tour of duty. He noted an esteemed career that included over 700 deployments.
Midterms bring Lieutenant Gubernatorial candidate to Bloomington-Normal
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – Lieutenant Governor candidate Christian Mitchell is on the campaign trail, making stops across Illinois and here in Bloomington-Normal. Previously, Mitchell served as the Deputy Governor alongside Governor J.B. Pritker, and he is now working to make an impact on residents throughout the state. “Myself and JB are running because we want to make sure that you have the brightest possible future.
Woman on the street: Midterms
NORMAL, Ill. – With midterms approaching, Illinois State University students are preparing for some of the most challenging exams of the semester while balancing classes, studying and other responsibilities. For some students, preparing for midterms means spending extra hours studying, while others work in study groups or even meet with tutors. With multiple exams, assignments, and projects approaching, students are finding different ways to organize their coursework.
Sarah Duffy appointed to fill retiring judge Costigan's seat
The Illinois Supreme Court has tabbed Associate Judge Sarah Duffy for a two-month appointment as a circuit judge for the 11th Judicial Circuit, which serves five counties, including McLean. The judicial shakeup comes as Chief Judge Casey Costigan prepares to retire on Oct. 16. Judge Mark Fellheimer will return to his prior role as chief judge following Costigan's retirement. The chief judge serves as the administrative head for the courts in McLean, Woodford, Ford, Logan and Livingston counties.
Head Start under threat, again, as demand remains high in Bloomington-Normal
Over the course of the last two years many federal budget cuts have been made across the board. These include cuts to education, healthcare and social services and they have ranged in impact. A new proposal takes aim at the Head Start early childhood program. The federally funded Head Start program has provided free early childhood education, health, nutrition and family support services to low-income children and their families for over six decades.
Prairie Pride Coalition to host LGBTQ Legacy Wall in Bloomington for most of October
October is LGBTQ+ History Month and the Prairie Pride Coalition is celebrating by bringing a piece of pride history to the McLean County Arts Center [MCAC]. The Legacy Wall is a traveling exhibit that features "mini biographies" of LGBTQ+ people throughout history. These biographies tell the stories of over 125 individuals from social justice pioneer Jane Addams to astronaut Sally Ride - even Leonardo da Vinci.
Joe Stamm unveils new music Friday night at the Castle
Central Illinois singer/songwriter Joe Stamm is returning to Bloomington with brand new music in tow. Stamm, from Metamora, releases a new EP today called More Than Just Bones, with a full band launch show scheduled Friday night at the Castle Theatre. The record is firmly planted in Stamm's wheelhouse, blending outlaw country with Midwest Americana layers.
Joe Stamm unveils new music Friday night at the Castle
1:05 1 hour ago Lady Gaga's baby name revealed. StringersHub • 1h A US media outlet obtained the birth certificate for the Poker Face singer's first child, all but officially confirming the baby's arrival. Gaga, whose real name is Stefani Germanotta, and her entrepreneur partner Michael Polansky, have yet to comment on reports they recently became parents.
Independent Primary Gubernatorial Candidate Collin Corbett visits Illinois State University
NORMAL, Ill. – As elections draw nearer, it becomes all the more important for candidates to hit the road and begin their campaign tour. Independent Primary Gubernatorial Candidate Collin Corbett is no different, making a stop on Illinois State University’s campus after a trip to Springfield, the state’s capital. Corbett has been involved in politics for 20 years, but mostly stuck to the logistics of the business rather than running himself.
Cross Country kicks of season in Fighting Illini Invitational
NORMAL, Ill. — The Illinois State cross-country program opens its 2026 season at the Fighting Illini Invitational on Friday, Sept 4. The women’s 4k race will begin at 6:30 p.m., and the men’s 6k race will commence immediately after, around 7 p.m. The meet will be at Orange and Blue Golf Course in Savoy, Illinois. This is the second year the Rebirds have participated in the invitation, with both the men’s and womens team taking place fourth in last year’s meet.
Five things to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal
Looking for something to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal? Here are five things happening in the community: Sarah’s Place The Castle Theatre is inviting guests to see a live Zach Bryan and Noah Kahan tribute band Friday. The doors open at 7 p.m., and the show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased here. Downtown Bloomington Farmers’ Market The Downtown Bloomington Farmers’ Market opening day will have all your favorite vendors back on the square, along with new faces.
Five things to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal
Looking for something to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal? Here are five things happening in the community: Free Fourth Saturday Those looking to let their creativity loose can do so for free. The Illinois Art Station will be open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every fourth Saturday. This event offers a space, supplies and inspiration for artists of all ages. More information can be found here.
Five things to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal
Looking for something to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal? Here are five things happening in the community: Bloomington Bison Game The Bloomington Bison are taking on the Iowa Heartlanders this weekend. The game will take place at Grossinger Motors Arena. The puck drops at 7 p.m. Friday. The theme is 309 night, with $3 Busch Light cans or sodas, free popcorn, $9 for two slices of pizza and a $9 specialty T-shirt. Tickets can be purchased here.
WZND marks 45th anniversary with alumni reunion, Hall of Fame inductions
NORMAL, Ill. – Illinois State University’s WZND celebrated its 45th anniversary on Saturday with a reunion that brought alumni back from several decades and inducted new members into the station’s Broadcast Hall of Fame. Among those inducted were Michael and Amber Rigsby, who said their time at WZND shaped both their personal and professional lives. “We have been together for 22 years. We met at WZND, so it’s special for us on two fronts.
RSO to Know: Motor Birds grinds the gears through building machinery
Illinois State University has officially begun the process of registering four new student organizations. This is part of the university's initiative within the new College of Engineering to build programs for students nationwide. One of these is known as Motor Birds, which focuses on building racecars. Freshman Caden Neal is the first president of Motor Birds. “Motor Bird’s started with the first engineering lecture we had at the beginning of the year.
Five things to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal
Looking for something to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal? Here are five things happening in the community: Slow Art Day The fifth annual citywide Slow Art Day on Route 66 will take place Saturday. This event offers inclusive and accessible art education and art appreciation for all ages.
ASFCME Strike - WZND Fuzed Radio
Image taken by Cole Loiacano NORMAL, Ill. – The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 1110 represents more than 300 Illinois State University employees. The employees range from janitorial staff to campus mechanics. At 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, the AFSCME Union held a rally east of the quad.
Bloomington-Normal crime report 3/30-4/3
NORMAL, Ill. – Spring has arrived, bringing warmer weather and rain, and coinciding with a decrease in crime in Bloomington-Normal and on Illinois State University’s campus. The season also marks the approach of graduation for many ISU seniors. Large events such as commencement, football games and homecoming parades require detailed planning by the university’s emergency management team.
Five things to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal
Looking for something to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal? Here are five things happening in the community: Bloomington Bison Game The Bloomington Bison are taking on the Indy Fuel this weekend. The game will take place at Grossinger Motors Arena. The puck drops at 7 p.m. Friday. This game is fan appreciation night, so expect bobble heads and giveaways. The theme is 309 night, with $3 Busch Light cans or sodas, free popcorn, $9 for two slices of pizza and a $9 specialty T-shirt.
Five things to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal
Looking for something to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal? Here are five things happening in the community: B\Town Throwdown For the ninth year, the Evergreen Racquet Club is hosting a pickleball tournament. The tournament will be from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Food and water will be provided to participants. Cash prizes will be awarded in this competition for all skill levels. More information can be found here.
ISU Police Chief speaks about Sunday morning shooting
NORMAL, Ill. – In the early morning hours of March 22, a shooting occurred in the 700 block of Franklin Street, less than a quarter-mile from Illinois State University’s campus. Illinois State University Police Chief Aaron Woodruff spoke about the incident. “At some point, Normal Police heard some shots ringing out.
ISU police explain why no campus alert followed shooting near ISU campus
Around 2:40 a.m. early Sunday, a shooting occurred on the 700 block of Franklin Street, less than a quarter mile from Illinois State University's campus. ISU Police Chief Aaron Woodruff spoke on the incident. “At some point, Normal police heard some shots ringing out,” Woodruff said.
Women in Business to provide business clothes to students in need
Women in Business is hosting a Corporate Clothes Free Sale from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday in the State Farm Hall of Business Atrium. This event will allow all College of Business students an opportunity to shop for free business attire. The event is in collaboration with other registered student organizations, local businesses and the Share Shop. WIB is still looking to obtain hangers, racks, mirrors, clothes and bins for this event.
Cybercrime threats rise on Illinois State campus
Cybercrimes have become synonymous with the 21st century. The FBI defines them as any illegal activity involving computers, networked devices or the internet, ranging from targeting networks to using technology to commit traditional crimes. According to Illinois State University Police Aaron Woodruff, cybercrimes come in a few more forms. A prominent cybercrime on ISU’s campus is the dissemination of sensitive images and extortion.
Five things to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal
Looking for something to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal? Here are five things happening in the community: Bloomington Bison Game The Bloomington Bison are taking on the Iowa Heartlanders this weekend. The game will take place at Grossinger Motors Arena. The puck drops at 7 p.m. Friday. Wear pink to support breast cancer awareness. The theme is 309 night, with $3 Busch Light cans or sodas, free popcorn, $9 for two slices of pizza and a $9 specialty T-shirt. Tickets can be purchased here.
Low turnout continues trend in McLean County primary
NORMAL, Ill. – Voter turnout in this week’s primary election in McLean County fell well below expectations, continuing a years-long trend of declining participation. McLean County Clerk Kathy Michael said turnout was approximately 22%, not including the city of Bloomington, which operates under a separate election jurisdiction. “It was one of the lowest turnouts that we can recall,” Michael said.
Five things to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal
Looking for something to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal? Here are five things happening in the community: Downtown Bloomington First Friday First Fridays are coming back to Downtown Bloomington. This Friday's theme is art, and the city hopes to bring in art lovers from across the community. The event is set to run from 5-8 p.m. Friday. You can spend the evening collecting artist trading cards. These small, card-sized and affordable original works of art will be offered around downtown.
Business Week ends with keynote speaker Warren McCarty
The final public event of Illinois State University’s Business Week saw trial lawyer Warren McCarty take the stage to discuss his journey. McCarty has won over $2.5 billion during his career and is an ISU alum who was a wide receiver for Redbird football. McCarty gave his speech following a simple format of three lessons he has learned throughout his life: do not be a sheep, forget the forest and failure is everything.
Bloomington Normal crime report 2/23-27
NORMAL, Ill. – Cybercrimes have become synonymous with the 21st century. The FBI defines cybercrimes as any illegal activity involving computers, networked devices or the internet, ranging from targeting networks to using technology to facilitate traditional crime. On Illinois State University’s campus, cybercrimes come in a few, more specific forms.
Five things to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal
Looking for something to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal? Here are five things happening in the community: It’s a 2000s Party The days of flip phones, party rock and bleached buzz cuts are not far behind us. The Castle Theatre is hosting a 2000s-themed dance party from 8-11 p.m. Friday. The party will feature hits from Beyoncé, Eminem, Justin Timberlake and more. As Y2K fades into the past, it is not too late to relive its glory days. Tickets can be purchased here.
Bloomington-Normal crime report 2/16-20
NORMAL, Ill. – After a recent shooting near Illinois State University’s campus, some community members have been left shaken. Although incidents like this are uncommon on and around campus, other crimes occur more regularly. ISU Police Chief Aaron Woodruff said theft and criminal damage cases are the most common. “The highest number of issues that we have are related to either theft or criminal damage-type cases. So somebody leaving their laptop, or something happened to get stolen,” Woodruff said.
Students to feature their furry friends at 'Paint Your Pet'
Students’ precious pets will be pictured at Event Management, Dining and Hospitality and Redbird Well’s “Paint Your Pet.” EMDH Assistant Director of Hospitality and Programming Kacy Rader said the idea came out of inspiration. “I originally was looking at some sort of drawing or lettering event with a company called NatterDoodle. I then found this and thought students would love it,” Rader said. Registration is full with a total of 115 students.
City of Bloomington hires new water director
The City of Bloomington has hired Brett Lueschen as the new water director. Lueschen has been in the water department for 20 years. He has also spent time as the interim water director. “I understand the system. I understand our great team that works for the City of Bloomington Water Department. I understand the community and our needs,” Lueschen said.
Five things to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal
Looking for something to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal? Here are five things happening in the community: Miller Park Zoo Free Fridays Back by popular demand, Miller Park Zoo will host free Fridays in February. The event will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every Friday. Miller Park Zoo's animals are still there for guests to see, even in the colder weather. Admission will be free all day, and no registration is required. More information is available here.
ISUPD sees a rise in mental health calls at the start of spring semester
The spring semester is fully underway, bringing the potential for new friends, new knowledge, self-growth and new stress. With a fresh load of classes and new commitments, it is normal for students to experience growing pressure on their mental health. According to the National Library of Medicine, most mental health disorders have their peak onset during young adulthood. This onset can be exacerbated by the challenges college can bring.
Bloomington-Normal crime report 2/9-13
NORMAL, Ill. – Policing is evolving worldwide as policy shifts and technology advance at a rapid pace, and Bloomington-Normal is no exception. Ashley Farmer, an associate professor of criminal justice sciences, said local departments reflect broader national trends. “We’ve seen the proliferation of things like body cameras, drones used in policing and now automated license plate readers,” Farmer said.
Valentine’s Day open skate to bring love to the ice in Bloomington
For those looking for love or a fun way to celebrate Valentine's Day, there will be a romantic open skate event Saturday. Lindsay Danner, the Bloomington Ice Center skating director and assistant manager, highlighted what guests can anticipate upon arrival. “Attendees can expect a fun and welcoming Valentine’s-themed atmosphere with music and a photo backdrop for pictures while they enjoy ice skating,” Danner said. The Bloomington Ice Center event is set up specifically for the holiday.
Five things to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal
Looking for something to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal? Here are five things happening in the community: Miller Park Zoo Free Fridays Back by popular demand, Miller Park Zoo will host free Fridays in February. The event will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every Friday. Miller Park Zoo's animals are still there for guests to see, even in the colder weather. Admission will be free all day, and no registration is required. More information is available here.
ISU to kick off Democracy Dialogue series with two guest speakers
The United States of America is nearing the 250th year of democracy. To celebrate, Illinois State University is kicking off a Democracy Dialogue series. The series will feature five parts that invite students to explore democracy.
Five things to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal
Looking for something to do this weekend in Bloomington-Normal? Here are five things happening in the community: Miller Park Zoo Free Fridays Back by popular demand, Miller Park Zoo will host free Fridays in February. The event will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every Friday. Miller Park Zoo's animals are still there for guests to see, even in the colder weather. Admission will be free all day, and no registration is required. More information is available here.
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