Good morning, Bloomington.

A Normal West student received a $1.5K scholarship from the State Farm Holiday Classic, one of five awards given to high school seniors who participated in the 2024 tournament — the program recognized eligible athletes for their efforts.

Illinois lawmakers passed House Bill 850 on Saturday, giving FOID card holders a way to appeal when their cards are denied or revoked — the law grants immunity to FOID Board members and allows state police to track some firearm records.

The measure now goes to the governor for review.

Bloomington is accepting nominations for the 2025 Beautification Awards—property owners with eye-catching outdoor landscaping and designs can submit their projects for future recognition.

Illinois lawmakers passed the Prescription Drug Affordability Act that will impose fees on pharmacy benefit managers—ending spread pricing and requiring them to return all rebates to help small independent pharmacies and lower prescription drug costs.

The bill also bans PBMs from steering patients to affiliated pharmacies.

Carle BroMenn Medical Center in Normal began a Mental Health Intensive Outpatient Program (located at 1304 Franklin Ave) that offers group counseling, educational sessions and a wellness recovery plan from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, while its Outpatient Center in Bloomington at 3024 E. Empire St now provides integrated mental health services with provider referrals to reduce emergency room visits.

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.