Good morning, Bloomington.

The Salvation Army of Bloomington is accepting fan and money donations to help vulnerable residents beat the summer heat — donations are welcomed at 611 W.

Washington St — and seniors plus those with medical needs will get priority on June 3 and June 5 with valid ID and current mail proof.

During Monday’s Memorial Day service at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery, American Legion honor guards presented the flag to three Bloomington-Normal families who had not received military rites—honoring local fallen service members by reading their names.

The ceremony paid tribute to those who earned the freedom we enjoy today.

Bloomington-Normal held a Memorial Day parade yesterday honoring fallen service members with about 50 groups marching from Downtown to Miller Park—where a memorial stands for Central Illinoisians killed in Korea and Vietnam; parade organizer Danielle Abrams said the event pays tribute to those who sacrificed for freedom. The nearly three-decade tradition reminded residents of the true cost of liberty.

The Saito family, who faced racism and internment during World War II at Tule Lake Camp, settled in Bloomington after Perry and Fumi Saito helped break down barriers at Illinois Wesleyan University.

Their story shows a struggle for the American dream & highlights a lasting part of our community’s history.

On Monday, classic car owners gathered at Destihl Brewery in Normal to showcase over 100 vehicles—ranging from classic to antique—and compete for prizes while drawing an estimated 500 to 800 fans and honoring Route 66, a 2,488 mi highway running from Chicago to Los Angeles.

Illinois legislators have not yet revealed full details of the proposed $55 billion budget for the fiscal year starting July 1, leaving taxpayers uncertain ahead of the May 31 deadline.

Lawmakers held closed-door, high-level meetings and some representatives warned that proposed changes such as adjustments to the estate tax may hurt residents — the chambers reconvened today and will continue until Saturday.

The Treasury confirmed Thursday that the U.S. Mint will stop making the Lincoln penny to save on costs and expects to save about $56 million a year.

Local historians and coin enthusiasts in Bloomington shared mixed feelings as they worry the move will erase a long-held symbol of Lincoln's legacy.

An Illinois state senator secured $800,000 to expand the Constitution Trail in Bloomington to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

The project will add a 10-foot-wide multi-use path that runs parallel to Bunn Street — then heads northwest under Interstate 55 Business.

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.

Color Splash Open Skate

2:00 – 3:30 PM — Bloomington Ice Center — Free entry — Skate in a vibrant atmosphere filled with music and colorful surprises.