Good morning, Bloomington.

Premium Loaves bought the historic building at 307 E.

Grove St. to house its new Jimmy John’s franchise headquarters and plans to revitalize the structure by moving its top-floor offices into the building next winter (the Clay Dooley Building), leaving lower floors for other local businesses.

Rivian Automotive reported that production at its Normal plant declined by 14.5% in 2025 with 42,284 vehicles built and 42,247 delivered, aligning with forecasts + preparing to produce less expensive R2 vehicles.

The firm later revised its annual delivery target to 43,500 vehicles.

Bloomington officials ask residents and businesses to conserve water today as lake levels drop over 8 feet below recommended levels.

They advise simple actions—like turning off the tap while brushing—to ease the drought while the city plans new water storage measures.

Bloomington residents are encouraged to save water as continued dry weather lowers reservoir levels, with Lake Bloomington and Evergreen Lake below normal.

City officials advise turning off taps during routine activities to help preserve supplies and avoid later restrictions.

Bloomington's Interim Water Director Brett Lueschen discussed water conservation efforts today — he outlined plans to reduce water usage and protect local resources.

Carle BroMenn Medical Center in Normal welcomed baby Aubrey Linn Ross on New Year’s Day.

The newborn was delivered at 1:33 p.m. to first-time parents Korey and Dakota from Armington, weighing 7 lbs 11 oz (20.5 inches long) according to hospital records.

On Friday, Jan. 2, dozens of fans dressed in red cheered ISU players as they left Hancock Stadium for Nashville—where the team will play in the FCS national championship game.

Maddie Gann—who played with AA teams such as the Diamondbacks and Dodgers— now leads the Bloomington Bison social media team, giving fans an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at team updates.

Trampled By Turtles Concert

7-10 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $38.00+ — Experience the unique blend of bluegrass and rock from Duluth's own Trampled by Turtles.

Taylorville - A Tribute to Taylor Swift

6-8 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $19.00+ — Experience a night filled with Taylor Swift’s greatest hits and stunning visuals in this dynamic tribute performance.