Good morning, Bloomington.

Mayor Chris Koos named Adam Nielsen as Town of Normal’s 2025 Citizen of the Year at Tuesday’s Appreciation Reception for his 12 years on the Town Council and his strong work on Alzheimer’s awareness after his 2023 diagnosis.

He used his experience in government and media to guide local revitalization efforts + now serves on the state Alzheimer’s advisory committee to help shape health policies.

Charlie Moore—president and CEO of the McLean County Chamber of Commerce—was elected to join the board of directors for the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, a Virginia-based group working with over 1,300 chambers.

He has led the chamber since 2008 and his election highlights his role in advancing regional business practices.

A longstanding Bloomington pub, Pub I, will close on Aug.

15 after 52 years in business—its sister location, Pub II, will keep the legacy alive for regulars.

Heartland Community College is partnering with CreatiVets to launch a free credit art course for student veterans this Fall; tuition and all course expenses will be covered.

The course, taught by Joey Hatch—an experienced artist in various media—offers creative healing for veterans who can learn more by contacting the Veteran’s Center Staff at 309-268-8153 on the College Main Campus.

Sixty-five Heartland Community College students have been named to the NJCAA All-Academic Team for the 2024-25 school year after earning a GPA of 3.60 or higher—marking a new record for the college—and the honor adds to the 13,915 student-athletes recognized nationwide.

Gov. JB Pritzker named ADM's President of Sustainable Materials and Strategic Initiatives, Kris Lutt, as the new Illinois State Board of Trustee member after trustee Scott Jenkins resigned on July 25 for personal reasons.

Lutt has driven ADM's defossilization and decarbonization efforts + he also serves with the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation.

Bloomington City Council and the Town of Normal approved an audit and one-year pause on sending sales tax funds to McLean County for jail bond debt, criminal justice technology, and mental health services, though the County Board has not yet approved the changes.

City Manager Jeff Jurgens said the pause will let the city review spending and continue funding for behavioral health programs—hoping county officials soon resolve the issue.

Bloomington Normal Medal Play Championship

Individual stroke play format — Saturday, Aug 2nd — Weibring Golf Club — Registration required — Compete in an 18-hole qualifying round to determine flight placements.

Ozark Mountain Daredevils Concert

7-9 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $39.00+ — Experience the eclectic sounds of country-rock legends merging whimsical lyrics and harmonious melodies.

Hill of a Race

8 AM – 12 PM — Ewing Park ll — $50 entry — Compete in a range of race categories including competitive and recreational waves.

3rd Sunday Market

8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. — McLean County Fairgrounds — $7 — Discover unique antiques and vintage treasures at this Bloomington tradition.

Illinois Deer & Beer Fest 2025

3-8 p.m. — McLean County Fairgrounds — Entry Fee Required — Celebrate deer hunting culture with craft beer and activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

2025 Cultural Fest - Vendor Sign Up

12-6:30 p.m. — Miller Park — Non-food vendor opportunities — Showcase your unique items at this vibrant cultural celebration.

Book Brunch Club

10-11 a.m. — Bloomington Public Library — Free — Start your day with coffee, snacks, and lively discussions about 'The Widows of Malabar Hill'.