Good morning, Bloomington.

The Illinois Shakespeare festival is kicking off this week at Ewing Theatre—local residents can attend to watch live plays.

Illinois consumers will pay higher taxes on short-term rentals, sports wagering, telecommunications, tobacco and vaping products starting July 1—rebates for electric vehicle purchases will be lowered.

Businesses will face new rules on foreign-earned income deductions and group taxation that may lead to double taxation.

The Chesebro/Cushman/Kyser Scholarship Fund awarded more than $190,000 in scholarships to 86 Central Illinois students this spring — the fund created by local Chesebro sisters who taught in Saunemin gave awards ranging from $500 to $3,700 to high school seniors and college students.

Licensed massage therapist MaryAnn Shelton said the new city ordinance forces massage businesses to pay an extra $100 fee and meet new licensing checks—meant to control professionals rather than target trafficking—while legal operations face more hurdles.

City manager Jeff Jurgens stated the licensing framework is designed as a proactive tool for public safety and remains in use alongside state oversight.

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.

Straight No Chaser: Summer 90s Tour

7-9 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $36.50+ — Enjoy the legendary a cappella group Straight No Chaser performing hits from the 90s.

Tractor Pulls

6:00-7:30 p.m. — McLean County Fairgrounds — Tickets start at $45 — Experience the thrill of Tractor Pulls in Bloomington, IL.

MCIA 5K and 1K

6-10 p.m. — Tipton Park — Registration Required — Participate in exciting running events including adult and youth categories and a unique 2K race in Saree with Sneakers.