Daily
Bloomington
Thursday, January 29th, 2026
Good morning, Bloomington. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 29th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Cumulus Radio Bloomington is hosting the 2026 Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Illinois at Miller Park Lake on Saturday, Feb. 28. Plungers must raise at least $100 with extra incentive swag for higher fundraising levels. WJBC
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ United Airlines will start flights from Central Illinois Regional Airport to Chicago in May + local travelers gain a new connection that boosts travel options. The Pantagraph
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Nomad Theatre will host Paint Night next month at the McLean County Arts Center Annex (206 E. Mulberry Street in Bloomington) with sponsorship from Sonya Mao. The Pantagraph
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Heartland Community College is launching a first-of-its-kind Hybrid Diesel Technology Program for students learning diesel and hybrid electric systems to meet local workforce needs. The 25-credit certificate starts next fall (with 12 available spots) and aims to build a pipeline for local agriculture and transportation careers. 25 News Now
- ➤ Carlock Village President Rhonda Baer raised concerns about a possible school closure at the McLean County Unit 5 Board of Education meeting on Jan. 28 (officials are still reviewing plans). The Pantagraph
- ➤ Heartland Community College's Academy for Learning Opportunities (HALO) program secured $253,766 from the ICCB Innovative Bridge and Transition grant to expand services for students with disabilities; the funding will help broaden learning opportunities on campus. The Pantagraph
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi visited Fairview Elementary School in Normal on Tuesday to stress that federal budget cuts may hinder essential after-school programs (vital for academic and food assistance) for local students and families. 25 News Now
- ➤ The Bloomington Fire Department is planning to expand social service programs to help residents recover after emergencies while continuing fire prevention education. Capt. Frank Friend said the department will work with local partners (including the American Red Cross) to improve home safety and well-being. WGLT
- ➤ Bloomington Parks and Recreation is hosting a job fair next month at Grossinger Motors Arena to provide details on seasonal positions + assist local job seekers in exploring employment opportunities. The Pantagraph
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CJ Chenier and The Red Hot Louisiana Band
8-11 p.m. — The Castle Theatre — Tickets required — Experience the vibrant sounds of Louisiana with CJ Chenier and his dynamic band.
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Aaron Lewis and The Stateliners: 2026 American Tour
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $53.00+ — Experience Aaron Lewis's raw country sound combined with powerful storytelling and special guest Kenny Whitmire.
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Bloomington Bison vs. Maine Mariners - College Night
7-9 p.m. — Grossinger Motors Arena — $3 Busch Light cans and $0 popcorn — Celebrate local universities at 309 Night with in-game activities and special food deals.
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Bloomington Bison vs. Maine Mariners - Country Night
6-9 p.m. — Grossinger Motors Arena — Ticket prices vary — Put on your cowboy boots and enjoy a thrilling hockey game followed by a free concert.
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Bison vs. Mariners: Abe's Birthday Celebration
4-6 p.m. — Grossinger Motors Arena — Ticket info available — Celebrate Abe's birthday with free meals for kids and a post-game skate.
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It's A 2000s Party: Bloomington
8-10 p.m. — The Castle Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Relive the 2000s with iconic music and fashion in a nostalgic party atmosphere.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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