Good morning, Bloomington.

On Thursday, Private First Class Robert L.

Bryant’s remains were brought home to Bloomington after 81 years since he was killed in World War II, and his great-great nephew escorted them from Midway Airport as family and community members gathered at Calvert and Metzler Memorial Home while law enforcement temporarily closed Veteran’s Parkway. Repatriation services will be held on April 12 at 1 p.m.—where he will be buried next to his brother.

Bloomington Scouts will host their 55th annual pancake—sausage breakfast this weekend to continue a long-standing tradition for local families.

Community Players Theatre and Friends of the BCPA will host Artgasm: A Fantasy Gala on October 11 to raise funds, and tickets are on sale now.

This annual fundraiser aims to support BCPA programs.

A Bloomington woman was found not guilty by reason of insanity for setting fire to her apartment following a McLean County bench trial.

Singer-songwriter Jenny Scara returns to her old stomping grounds as she headlines Gender Envy Fest today at the Coffeehouse in Normal with new songs from her EP Listen Up!

She grew up in the area and will also play a house show in Chicago tomorrow—she is set to perform at the Castle Theatre on April 10.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the Bloomington-Normal labor market lost 2,100 jobs overall and 2,700 in manufacturing from February 2024 to February 2025, while job gains in areas like private education-health services + government kept the unemployment rate at 3.8%, the lowest among Illinois metro areas.

Bloomington Bison President & CEO Larry McQueary announced today details for Fan Appreciation Night on Saturday at Grossinger Motors Arena.

Ticket holders with a game ticket can join Fan Fest from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. to enjoy free activities like face painting, cornhole, an inflatable goal, a performance by local artist Aaron Newsome from 4 to 5 p.m., giveaways for the first 1,200 fans, and an address by Head Coach Phillip Barski before the team faces the Kalamazoo Wings at 7 p.m.

The ISU Redbirds lost 99-96 in the WNIT semifinals on Wednesday night at CEFCU Arena before 2,406 fans.

Shannon Dowell set a postseason scoring record with 37 points as Troy will play Buffalo in the championship on Saturday.

Evergreen Racquet Club was awarded $42,000 by the United States Tennis Association — the funds will be used to resurface 7 of its 8 indoor tennis courts, with work scheduled to start soon.

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.

20 Over 60 Awards

4:30-6 p.m. — Rob Dob's Restaurant & Bar — Celebration of community leaders over 60 — Honoring impactful contributions by older adults in the community.

DEWALT Days 2025

12 AM — Blain's Farm & Fleet — Free entry — Explore DEWALT tools and get expert advice during this special event.

Unit 5K Run/Walk

2 PM — Maxwell Park — Entry fee applies — Support the Unit 5 Educational Foundation while enjoying a 5k run or mile walk.