Daily
Bloomington
Thursday, February 5th, 2026
Good morning, Bloomington. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 5th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Salvation Army raised $130,000 extra over the holidays but fell nearly $180,000 short of its $1 million goal, and it may cut Safe Harbor shelter services if additional donations do not arrive by September+ three part-time jobs were already eliminated to save on costs. WGLT
- ➤ McLean County Barn Keepers will host a public meeting later this month to discuss local barn projects and community efforts, with details on time and location to be announced soon. The Pantagraph
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Bloomington-Normal leaders called on lawmakers and Gov. Pritzker to open dialogue with State Farm and other insurers after proposed regulation for rate hikes raised concerns about jobs (integral to the community). Normal Mayor Chris Koos and EDC's Patrick Hoban urged caution as discussions continue on the potential economic impact. WGLT
- ➤ Normal Town Council will hold a strategic planning retreat to study a potential sports complex based on NIU and Chamber focus groups’ input. Mayor Koos said earlier proposals stalled over finance issues (a public-private partnership is key) and noted the project could benefit both Normal and Bloomington. WGLT
- ➤ Illinois is accepting applications for $24 million in state grants to build six new manufacturing training academies at community colleges. The program, which began at Heartland Community College outside Bloomington, will help ease the labor shortage & boost local workforce skills in advanced manufacturing. WJBC
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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.
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Here Come The Mummies Concert
7-9 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $41.00+ — Get ready to groove with this eight-piece funk-rock band of 5000 year-old Egyptian Mummies bringing their 'Terrifying Funk from Beyond the Grave'.
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Wizard of Oz On Ice
7-10 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $24.00+ — Experience the beloved classic reimagined with breathtaking ice performances and stunning choreography.
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Miller Park Zoo Stampede
9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. — Miller Park Pavilion — Entry fee required — Run or walk to support a wild cause in the heart of Miller Park.
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.
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