Good morning, Bloomington.

The Humane Society of Central Illinois will host Fur-Chella 2025 — a free, family-friendly pet adoption event — on Saturday, April 19.

Residents can visit the event to learn about adoptable pets and meet local organizers.

Two downtown Bloomington businesses announced they will close their storefronts after years of operation—details about timing and future plans have not yet been provided.

Twenty high school seniors from 20 schools in McLean and Woodford counties were honored at the 26th annual Citizenship and Scholarship Luncheon at the Bloomington Country Club on April 10.

The awards included letters and challenge coins and — three students from Eureka, LeRoy and Lexington High Schools received $1,000 scholarships — while Illinois Wesleyan University President Sheahon Zenger urged the students to lead through challenges.

The Illinois Senate passed a bill that will require school districts to ban cell phone use during class to help students focus on learning — the law allows exceptions for emergencies and students who rely on devices for special needs.

Governor JB Pritzker supports the measure and districts will soon set their own policies.

An Illinois Wesleyan University junior started the Multi-Lingual Accessibility Club in October to help District 87 schools with interpreter services—29 student volunteers now interpret in 23 languages during parent-teacher conferences.

The club plans to expand its services to student registration and reach more families.

Voters approved an $38M referendum for facility upgrades in Prairie Central, meaning Prairie Central Primary West in Chenoa along with two other elementary schools will close.

Superintendent Paula Crane said a new centralized elementary school will open in Fairbury in three years—addressing transportation challenges across the district.

Bloomington’s Water Department temporarily switched its water source from Lake Evergreen to Lake Bloomington on Tuesday to treat an algae bloom and improve water quality as treatment of Lake Evergreen began Wednesday—city officials said residents will notice better taste and smell in their water until the source reverts in about a week.

The Town of Normal and Illinois State University have teamed up to improve pedestrian and roadway safety around the ISU campus after recent crashes raised concerns.

The initiative will use data and invite community input through an online survey and campus visits on April 14 and 30—leading to a pilot project and long-term improvements—by working with consulting partners.

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.

Bloomington Princesses at the Zoo

5-7 p.m. — Miller Park Zoo — $30 per guest — Experience an interactive evening with princesses and furry friends at the zoo.