Good morning, Bloomington.

A Hudson man, Andrew J.

McConnaughay, 29, was sentenced to 43 years in prison after pleading guilty to robbery, weapons, and drug charges in connection with a November 18, 2023, home invasion at an Oakbrook Court apartment in Bloomington—he must serve half his sentence with credit for 571 days already served.

On June 18, hundreds gathered at Illinois State University's Bone Student Center to honor local history makers—Rob Fazzini, Father Doug Hennessy, and Sally Rudolph—for their contributions to the community, with each being recognized for business support, faith work, and civic service respectively. The event also served as the annual meeting of the McLean County Historical Society where new officers were confirmed.

Heartland Community College said trustee Cecelia Long resigned to pursue personal and professional opportunities and left nearly four years on her term—she served since 2021 and was re-elected in 2023.

The college is accepting board applications at the Community Commons Building until 12 p.m. July 14.

Illinois state Rep. LaPointe introduced SB 1560 that would require public schools to offer confidential, age-appropriate mental health screenings as early as third grade to help detect issues early — parents may opt out of the screening.

The bill passed the House and is now headed to Gov. Pritzker for his review.

The Illinois High Speed Rail Commission is studying 220 mph rail service on the Chicago to St. Louis corridor that could cut travel time and serve major markets.

The study considers several routes, including one through Bloomington+Normal, and faces challenges from high costs and extensive land acquisition needs.

OSF St. Joseph in Bloomington blessed a new 25-bed ICU expansion on Tuesday that will raise its capacity from 14 to 39 beds.

The unit will open on June 24 to ease care shortages—staff hope it will better support patients and their families.

The Illinois Department of Public Health urged Bloomington residents to guard against mosquito bites after the West Nile virus was detected in 17 counties; no human cases have been reported this year even though 69 cases and 13 deaths occurred last year.

The agency advised seniors and those with weakened immune systems to practice prevention measures during National Mosquito Control Awareness Week—June 15—21.

Special Olympics Illinois will host the 2025 Summer Games this weekend in Bloomington-Normal (its largest sporting event) as athletes return to compete.

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.

Dog Days 5K

11 PM – 3 AM — 17485 E 2500 North Rd — Entry fee varies — Participate in a fun nighttime 5K event for dog lovers.

Illinois Chamber Music Festival

12:00 AM — Illinois Wesleyan University — Free entry — A delightful summer festival for young musicians featuring intensive training and public performances.

Gabby Barrett Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $36.00+ — Experience the rise of country music star Gabby Barrett live with her chart-topping hits.

Shut Up & Write!®

2-3:30 p.m. — Coffeehouse in Uptown Normal — Free entry — Focused writing session for all skill levels in a supportive environment.