Good morning, Bloomington.

Retailers report a shortage of NeeDoh, a popular fidget toy (and parents also seek them) as TikTok posts and local buzz drive demand in Bloomington.

Red Raccoon Games and The Garlic Press limit sales to two per customer, and online prices are higher today.

Air conditioning first came to Bloomington in 1934 when the Irvin Theater on East Jefferson Street installed a system to cool movie goers during scorching summers.

Local businesses including Wahls Cafe followed, marking a shift driven by early technological innovations (as noted by the McLean County Museum of History).

Mitchell Tenpenny, a multi-platinum country artist, will perform his Speed of Light Tour 2026 at the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts on Friday, Nov.

13. Ticket presale starts Thursday, July 16 with general sales on July 17 (call 309-434-2777 for details).

Bloomington Public Library offers a new recording studio that gives local residents cost-effective access to equipment for digital content creation (help sessions assist with learning industry-standard software).

Users should bring a USB device and note the room is not fully soundproof.

A new state agency, the Illinois Department of Early Childhood, took over child care programs from three state departments on July 1.

Providers in McLean County still face shortages and long wait lists amid ongoing challenges with funding and staffing.

The City accepted an additional $200K grant for home rehab to fund 3-4 more projects, adding to previous efforts that improved 10 homes.

Council is also reviewing a new vacant property ordinance (affecting 147 homes) and may vote on an affordable housing partnership this year.

Normal’s Uptown Design Review Commission approved Carlson Bros’ $60 million Trail East and Trail West project on Monday, clearing the way for two multi-use buildings with 200-plus apartments and retail space along Uptown Circle — town council is expected to review the project soon.

Normal Community High School star Gavin Swartz was drafted in the 11th round by the Colorado Rockies — he has committed to pitching at Indiana — and now faces a decision on whether to go pro or play college ball.

Watchhouse Concert

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

McLean County Fair

Jul 29 – Aug 1 — McLean County Fairgrounds — $10 entry — Enjoy five days of fun with exhibits, games, and entertainment in Bloomington's cherished tradition.

Taylor Bruninga and Feudin Hillbillys

6:30-10:30 p.m. — McLean County Fairgrounds — Tickets from $52 — Experience the unforgettable performances of Feudin' Hillbillys live in Bloomington.

Demolition Derby

6:00 – 9:30 PM — McLean County Fairgrounds — Tickets start at $71 — Experience the thrilling chaos of cars colliding in this unforgettable live event.