Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 17th of May.
Good morning, Bloomington.
The Town of Normal and City of Bloomington have launched BN the Solution (a joint resource hub) to connect people fighting homelessness to education and local aid programs.
The hub will give clear links to resources that help improve the lives of those in need.
Owner Dan Eldridge of Maxon Shooter’s Supplies and Indoor Range said the State Police will take the FOID verification website offline from 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 20th until 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 21st for maintenance—retailers will be unable to verify cards for ammunition or firearm sales. Eldridge argued the outage further underlines his concerns about keeping the FOID card system in place.
A 21-year-old Indiana man was charged with robbing a woman at gunpoint in downtown Bloomington + he was jailed in McLean County.
Heartland Community College held its spring commencement on May 16 at Grossinger Motors Arena, where over 500 students received their degrees in programs such as nursing and computer science.
The ceremony featured speeches from college leaders and recognized notable achievements by dual-credit and adult education students (including a father-and-son duo) as families celebrated the graduates.
New McLean County Board chair Elizabeth Johnston said the board will switch rural transit from Show Bus to Connect Transit this summer and is exploring plans to support unhoused people through a new shelter project and a comprehensive county plan.
She also raised concerns over proposed state changes that may ease rules on carbon sequestration drilling near the Mahomet Aquifer — a move that could affect drinking water safety.
Illinois has 16.4% of its major roads in poor condition and another 32.6% in fair shape, which makes it the 15th largest share in the country.
Michael Stromberg said lawmakers must fix inefficient government spending and add better road technology (like Minnesota’s) to boost road quality (following Indiana’s methods).
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.
Heart of Illinois Cluster Dog Show
All day — McLean County Fairgrounds — Check website for ticket prices — Enjoy a weekend filled with canine competition and community fun.
Memorial Day Parade
9 AM - 12 PM — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — Free entry — Celebrate Memorial Day with a vibrant parade from Front Street to Miller Park Zoo.
Sixtiesmania
7:00-8:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $44.00+ — Experience a vibrant musical journey through the iconic hits of the '60s with an electrifying tribute band.
The Big Run
5:30-9:30 p.m. — Bloomington-Normal Spine Clinic — Free entry — Celebrate Global Running Day with a fun 3.1-mile run and good friends.
Tri-Shark Classic Triathlon and Duathlon
1-5 p.m. — Comlara Park — Registration required — Experience the premier Sprint Triathlon/Duathlon event in Bloomington-Normal with a flat, fast course.
Tailgates N’ Tallboys Country Music Festival
All day — McLean County Fairgrounds — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with country music and community spirit.
AJ Croce Presents CROCE PLAYS CROCE
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $38.00+ — Experience a musical journey through the songs of A.J. Croce and the legacy of his father, Jim Croce.
Baby Animal Days
10 a.m.–3 p.m. — Rader Family Farms — Entry fee required — Celebrate summer with adorable baby animals and fun attractions for the whole family.
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