When the world slowed to a halt in early 2020, so did childrens routines. Schools shuttered, playgrounds emptied, and screens became a lifeline to education and entertainment. But amid the upheaval, a surprising trend emerged: the revival of classic, hands-on toys like toy trucks, Lincoln Logs, and wooden train sets. Among the biggest beneficiaries was Lincoln Logs, the nearly 110-year-old construction toy that saw a resurgence as families embraced home-based play. Toy trucks, particularly the classic die-cast models and sturdy plastic dump trucks, also made a comeback. For some, the return to old-school play wasn’t just about entertainment—it was a way to cope with the uncertainty of the pandemic. It was the same for this sports photographer... no games, no sweaty gyms, no photos to edit unless you found something else to photograph! Thank goodness for Lincoln Logs, and old toy trucks! #bloomingtonnormalsportsphotos #bloomingtonnormalsportsphotographer #bestlookmagazine #al...

   NORMAL, Ill. (AP) — The Ridgeview Mustangs secured a hard-fought victory over the Annawan Braves in the IHSA Class 1A Super Sectional boys basketball game on March 6, 2018, at Redbird Arena, punching their ticket to the state finals. Ridgeview overcame a determined Annawan squad with a strong second-half performance, pulling away late to earn a win. The Mustangs’ disciplined defense and clutch shooting proved decisive in the battle for a spot in the state semifinals. Annawan fought valiantly throughout the contest, however, Ridgeview’s defensive pressure forced several crucial turnovers late in the game, limiting Annawan’s chances to mount a comeback.

   On this day in History... NORMAL, Ill. (March 5, 2005) — The Normal Community Ironmen secured the boys' basketball regional championship Saturday night, defeating cross-town rival Normal Community West in a hard-fought matchup. The Ironmen relied on a balanced scoring attack and strong defense to hold off the Wildcats in front of a packed gymnasium at Normal Community High School. West kept the game close throughout. The Wildcats cut the deficit to three with under two minutes to play, but Normal Community responded with key free throws down the stretch to put the game out of reach. https://alanlookphotography.zenfoliosite.com

   March 4, 2005 – Normal, Ill. Normal Community’s boys basketball team secured a hard-fought victory over Bloomington on Friday night, defeating the Purple Raiders in an IHSA Class AA Regional matchup at Normal Community West High School. The Ironmen, led by a strong defensive performance and clutch shooting, outlasted Bloomington in a tightly contested game that saw multiple lead changes. Normal Community’s fast-paced offense and aggressive rebounding helped them pull away in the final minutes to clinch the win. With the win, Normal Community advances to the next round of the IHSA Class AA tournament. Bloomington’s season comes to an end, but the Purple Raiders showcased resilience and determination throughout the year. https://alanlookphotography.zenfoliosite.com

   On this day in history: BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (March 3, 2004) — The Champaign Central Maroons pulled away late to defeat the Normal West Wildcats 70-61 in an IHSA Class AA regional game Wednesday night at Bloomington High School. #bloomingtonnormalsportsphotos   #bloomingtonnormalsportsphotographer   #Mcleancountysportsphotos   #centralillinoissportsphotos   @alanlookphotography

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (March 1, 2025) — The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) concluded its inaugural State Girls Wrestling Finals on March 1 at Grossinger Motors Arena, marking a significant milestone in the state's athletic history. Over the two-day event, female wrestlers from across Illinois competed in various weight classes, showcasing exceptional skill and determination. The tournament featured both individual and team championships, highlighting the depth of talent in girls' wrestling. In the individual finals, Katelyn Bell of Montini Catholic High School secured the championship in the 100-pound weight class with a decisive 21-2 technical fall over her opponent. FLOWRESTLING.ORG The team competition saw Schaumburg High School clinch the state title, demonstrating dominance throughout the tournament. Their performance underscored the growing competitiveness of girls' wrestling programs statewide. The success of this inaugural event has fueled discussions about exp...

   Tri-Valley hosted Fieldcrest in the last home regular season varsity boys basketball last night. The Vikings were victorious over the Knights by 10 points. It's off to the state Regionals for both teams Check out the photos at  Alan Look Photography