Good morning, Bloomington.

Grove Street Bakery will remain open under new ownership (owners announced the change on Facebook) and will keep serving local customers.

Ferrero plans to buy Kellogg for about $3.1 billion and the deal, which still needs shareholder approval, is expected to close by the end of the year — the acquisition will include Kellogg’s six manufacturing plants and cereal brands while offering no details on changes to the Bloomington operations.

A man from Normal pleaded guilty in two McLean County cases for possessing child sex abuse images and was sentenced to 60 years in prison — the sentence reflects the serious nature of his offenses.

Central Illinois homeowners, renters and business owners are facing sharply higher electric bills this summer as Ameren passes on increased supply costs to customers; in Bloomington, Windy City Wieners owner Steven Marifjeren and others reported significant bill jumps, with rates expected to fall to normal on Oct. 1.

Last Friday, Gov. J.B.

Pritzker signed a law that restricts carbon capture to protect most of the Mahomet Aquifer. The law takes effect January 1, 2026—creates a task force in collaboration with the Prairie Research Institute to report by the end of 2030 on risks related to carbon capture so that nearly a million people have safe drinking water.

Illinois State University is reviewing a Department of Justice letter that warns race-based diversity programs may violate civil rights laws+ the letter urges schools to examine policies that could discriminate, while state Rep. Paul Jacobs expects proposals to replace lost federal funding with state dollars.

Bloomington City Planner Alissa Pemberton discussed planned improvements for Fox Creek Road during a recent briefing, outlining design changes and updates to traffic flow — more details on community meetings to review the proposals will be shared soon.

McLean County election officials said they purge voter rolls every two years to remove inaccurate registrations after the DOJ inquiry noted missing confirmation notices—county clerk Kathy Michael expects to clear up the error with a phone call on Monday.

The county follows strict state election protocols by updating voter information using data from multiple government agencies.

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'.

Paint Nite at Chateau Hotel

5-7:30 p.m. — Chateau Hotel and Conference Center — Food and drinks available — Create your own masterpiece while sipping and laughing with friends.

Prairieland Punishers Roller Derby Final Home Bout

4-8 p.m. — Interstate Center — $15 VIP, $10 General, $5 Children — Experience thrilling roller derby action as the Punishers face off against Demolition City in their final home game of the season.