Good morning, Bloomington.

Baby Fold, a nonprofit that empowers families in Central Illinois — received the Mission Award from the Methodist Ministries Network at its annual conference in Memphis, Tennessee.

Downtown Bloomington was designated as a cultural district on May 19, making it eligible for $3 million in state funds.

City leaders said the funds may later support public art inventory, cultural events and upgrades to the $2 million Streetscape plan — a move that recognizes the downtown's vibrant cultural identity and historic significance.

At the McLean County Unit 5 Board of Education meeting on May 21, CFO Marty Hickman addressed the amended fiscal 2025 budget — he explained key financial adjustments made for the upcoming fiscal year.

Bloomington High School will hold its graduation at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 25, at Grossinger Motors Arena.

The valedictorians are Devin Adams, Haleigh Hoffman, Avani Khapre, Millicent Law, Sharini Menon, Nailah Rivadenyra-Braswell, Briannon Snyder and Gwenyth Suess — the salutatorians are Jordan Glam, Luke Huffaker, Paige Novotny, Miette Smith-Golwitzer and Liam Taylor.

WGLT visited Bloomington High School on May 21 to capture students sharing their plans for summer break; one student even volunteered to introduce the story—Unit 5 has already started break while District 87 will end classes on May 28.

A bill that requires three-point seat belts on school buses by 2031 passed the Illinois House by an 83 to 27 vote yesterday and now awaits the governor’s signature—buses bought before 2031 will be exempt while new ones may cost an extra $7,000 to $18,000 each.

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.

FREE Lunchtime Concerts

11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. — Withers Park — Free entry — Enjoy quality musical entertainment during your lunch hour with various local acts performing weekly.