Good morning, Bloomington.

Registration is now open for summer programs offered by the Bloomington Parks & Rec Department, and local residents can sign up to join activities planned for the warm season.

WJBC celebrated its 100th anniversary April 17th when local officials declared 'WJBC Day' and hosted live performances—featuring a marching band, proclamations and a custom cake from Denny's Doughnuts—to honor the station's long service in community news.

Radio host Scott Miller led the tribute that remembered over a century of being the voice of local events.

Eastern Illinois Foodbank said it will stop food giveaways at Normal West High School this summer after serving 90 to 150 families monthly; its Foodmobile (the mobile pantry) will keep running its routes in rural McLean County and hold monthly distributions in nearby Farmer City.

The change comes as the foodbank shifts its resources to help areas with few food options.

A Bloomington man is detained in McLean County Jail after he was accused of using a sledgehammer to rob a jewelry store at Eastland Mall in January — he faces charges for armed robbery, robbery and burglary with a pretrial hearing set for May 30.

A Bloomington man was detained in McLean County on meth delivery charges.

The Unit 5 school board reviewed a study on cell phone use during a Wednesday meeting and found that major incidents were nearly half as frequent this year as last+Superintendent Kristen Weikle said the board may review the current out-of-sight rule while the state Senate moves ahead with a bill to ban phones during class.

State funding for ISU dropped by 34% over the past decade, and university leaders and advocates are urging the legislature to adopt a per-student funding formula this spring.

The measure could add about $135 million a year and raise per-student funding by nearly $10,000 — details remain under discussion.

Bloomington Mayor Mboka Mwilambwe said the city reached a deal with Urban Equity Partners to pay incentives over the next two decades for a $68 million renovation of the downtown State Farm building into 183 new apartments that are expected to boost economic activity downtown.

He added the agreement covers 92% of the projected tax increase and is part of his key accomplishments as he prepares to leave office at the end of the month—following years of stalled projects.

Unit 5’s school board approved a resolution on Wednesday to borrow funds through general obligation bonds for summer repairs while the district awaits countywide sales tax revenue expected in October.

The board plans to borrow closer to $10 million to cover projects including roof replacements at Normal Community and Chiddix Junior High, and the bond sale is scheduled for Monday but may change if interest rates fluctuate.

The Bloomington Bison hockey team missed the playoffs in their first ECHL season but met key goals by drawing over 100,000 fans to Grossinger Motors Arena.

Coach Phillip Barski said he expects the team to build momentum next season with a stronger roster and continued community support.

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.

The SteelDrivers in Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $28.50+ — Experience a unique blend of bluegrass soul from Grammy-nominated folk legends.

Dry Bar Comedy Live Show

7-10 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $21.00+ — Enjoy a night of clean comedy featuring popular comedians from the Dry Bar Comedy specials.

American Girl Doll Skate

12:30-2:00 p.m. — Bloomington Ice Center — Registration required — Bring your favorite doll or stuffed animal for skating fun with free treats and activity amenities.

Fleet Feet Bloomington Donut Run

9 AM – 1 PM — Fleet Feet Bloomington — Entry details not specified — Celebrate the store's anniversary with a fun run/walk for all ages featuring delicious donuts.