Good morning, Bloomington.

Jersey Mike’s and Easterseals of Central Illinois partnered on a Day of Giving on March 26 when customers at outlets from the Peoria area to Bloomington donated 100% of sales to support local families and programs.

Many customers waited up to one hour to help the nonprofit increase donations from last year’s $16,000 to a hoped-for $17,000.

Rivian is building a 1.1 million square foot facility at its manufacturing plant to house a body shop and general assembly for its new R2 model.

Construction is on track despite cold winter weather and the company will add new facilities for paint, battery and material flow as it plans to launch the R2 in 2026.

Alexis Piña, a trumpet fan, said ISU’s Wind Symphony is teaming with a Chicago mariachi band to mix music styles—this project will soon bring a new sound to local stages.

ISU is facing a potential faculty strike if a new contract is not reached by April 4—650 union members would stop teaching, grading and responding to emails while picketing.

The university said it will keep classes running and has mediation sessions scheduled for March 28, April 2 and April 4 to work toward a deal.

Illinois legislators are considering House Bill 2982 that would eliminate the tip credit by 2027 and offer a $1.50 tax credit for employers who drop the tip credit early.

Sam Toia, president of the Illinois Restaurant Association, warned the move could cost the state $277 million—potentially leading to layoffs and higher restaurant prices.

Bloomington’s mayoral race will see incumbent Mayor Mboka Mwilambwe, former McLean County Coroner Dan Brady and Council member Cody Hendricks competing ahead of the April 1 consolidated election as they promise to tackle housing, infrastructure and public safety.

All candidates stress a truly nonpartisan contest—urging voters to choose a leader based solely on local challenges.

Illinois State University graduate student Matt Kase developed VENT—an app on Apple Vision Pro goggles that trains users to give Narcan—through a project with ISU’s Mennonite College of Nursing, SIU and OSF Peoria; he plans to expand its use to other VR devices and add game features later.

Spa, Pool & Swim Spa Blowout Expo

Time TBA — McLean County Fairgrounds — Great discounts available — Discover incredible deals on over 30 hot tubs and swim spas from top brands.

Whiskey Friends: The Morgan Wallen Experience

7-10 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $20+ — Enjoy a high-energy tribute to country superstar Morgan Wallen with an evening of non-stop hits and sing-along ballads.

The Phil Collins Experience

7:00–8:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $25.00+ — Experience the hits of Phil Collins performed live by an acclaimed tribute band.

Loudernow Concert

8 PM — The Castle Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an exciting night of live music at The Castle Theatre.

Million Dollar Time Machine

7-9 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $59.00+ — Experience the ultimate time travel show with legendary musical acts emerging live on stage.

Zoso - A Tribute to Led Zeppelin

7-10 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $24.00+ — Experience the ultimate tribute to Led Zeppelin with a captivating performance of classic hits and stunning visuals.

Study of the Gospel of Mark

7:45-8:45 p.m. — Bloomington Public Library — Free entry — Read and discuss Mark's Gospel while exploring fundamental Christian beliefs and values.

Biscuits n Gravy Band Live Performance

7-10 p.m. — THE STATION SALOON — Entry details not provided — Enjoy a night of classic rock and groovy tunes in the heart of Central Illinois.