Good morning, Bloomington.

A B-52 bomber crashed during a routine test flight Monday, June 15 in the Mojave Desert, killing eight people including Col. Gregory Watson (a Normal graduate and ISU alumnus) who had been based at Barksdale Air Force Base.

Harrison Meece from Normal is urging McLean County to consider a data center that meets community standards with strict requirements for water use and power demands.

The plan, which could bring extra jobs and revenue, hinges on public approval as moratoriums in Bloomington and Normal expire in November.

Officials in Bloomington District 87 reviewed the amended fiscal 2026 budget today, which shows a $4.4 million surplus — they expressed caution over future transportation funding as discussions also touched on growth in vocational programs.

Heartland Community College’s agriculture building in Normal received a Green/LEED Development of the Year Award for its zero net emissions design that uses solar panels and underground heating, and the college will start building two solar fields this fall to power its campus with solar energy by 2030.

A list featuring 24 Illinois State alumni who achieved fame after college was released, highlighting each individual's key accomplishments.

Locals can review the profile and note if any other notable alumni are missing from the roster.

Local high school athletes played in the Shriner’s All-Star football game at Illinois Wesleyan University.

Team Blue edged Team Red 17—16 after a blocked field goal in the final seconds, and Aidin Hindert and Chenzo Cottone earned game awards.

Cosplay on a Budget Workshop

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Bloomington Public Library — Registration required — Learn how to create budget-friendly costumes from thrift stores and more in this engaging workshop.

Horse Camp II – Where Hooves Meet Adventure!

Daily sessions — Breezy Bluff Riding Academy — $500 — Experience the thrill of equestrian adventure with horse rides, crafts, and fun activities for young horse enthusiasts.

Rend Collective Concert

7 p.m. — Bloomington Center For The Performing Arts — Ticket pricing varies — Experience an uplifting night of music with Rend Collective.

Micro Spice Duo - Summer Tunes

7-10 p.m. — CRAFTED Coffee & Wine — Free entry — Enjoy soothing acoustic tunes from Micro Spice this summer Friday night.

StoryWalk® at the Glorious Garden Festival

9 a.m. – 1 p.m. — David Davis Mansion — Free entry — Stroll through Sarah's Garden while reading a delightful children's story.

Henry Cho Comedy Show

7-10 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience an evening of laughter with comedian Henry Cho at a premier venue.

Roger Clyne And The Peacemakers Concert

7 p.m. — The Castle Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of live music with Roger Clyne And The Peacemakers in a vibrant setting.

Watchhouse Concert

7 p.m. — The Castle Theatre — Ticket availability varies — Enjoy a night of captivating music from Watchhouse in a historic venue.