Daily
Bloomington
Wednesday, February 18th, 2026
Good morning, Bloomington. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 18th of February.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Rivian plans to deliver thousands more EVs in 2026 at its Normal plant as it launches cheaper R2 SUVs in the second quarter, with pricing details to be announced on March 12. The 1.1 million sqft facility expansion is complete. 25 News Now
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ NAACP leaders recalled Rev. Jesse Jackson’s personal touch and civil rights influence after he died Tuesday. NAACP vice president Carla Campbell-Jackson (noting his support of youth) highlighted his kind moment with her son and his 1988 Nestle rally that spurred community change. WGLT
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Central Illinois students will compete in the 2026 STEAM Olympics (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) hosted by For a better Tomorrow, testing their skills in a friendly competition. The event aims to encourage learning and celebrate young talent. The Pantagraph
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ BNEDC is set to request congressional funding for three infrastructure projects + a workforce program during the One Voice trip to Washington early next month. The delegation includes city, county, labor, school, and business leaders, and projects target a water lift station, storm water drainage, and an airport boarding bridge. WGLT
- ➤ Representative Sorensen met with veterans at VFW Post 454 to discuss concerns about accessing VA services & transportation challenges while reviewing plans to offer federal grants to improve veteran home accessibility. This visit was part of his ongoing Hearts for Heroes tour. WGLT
- ➤ Bloomington city leaders presented an economic plan and housing update showing that planned projects at the former State Farm and Verizon sites could spur growth, while Home Sweet Home Ministries reported that The Bridge shelter village reached 84% occupancy despite minor heater and door issues (fixes progressing). WGLT
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Builders in Normal increased single-family home starts by nearly 49% last year with 55 new homes while duplex construction rose 63% amid high mortgage rates slowing sales. Town records show 283 available lots that may spur future projects if rates drop. WGLT
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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.
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STOMP Performance
7-10 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $36.00+ — Experience an inventive blend of dance, music, and theatrical performance with energizing beats.
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Grown-Up Story Time
7:30-8:30 p.m. — McLean County Arts Center — Free entry — Adults enjoy beloved children's stories with light refreshments.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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