Good morning, Bloomington.

Bill Sulaski, known as ‘The Chairman,’ died at age 85 on Aug.

12 after a long career serving as a leader in the Bloomington community and at ISU—he was the first chair of ISU’s Board of Trustees and earned many local awards. A celebration of his life will be held from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19 at Bloomington Country Club.

The Wilber Group will hold a ribbon cutting tomorrow at 421 Detroit Ave. in Bloomington for its third location in the Twin Cities—expanding its business footprint in the area.

A McLean County judge granted the state's petition and held a man accused of starting a fire in west Bloomington pretrial—he now awaits further court proceedings.

Owner Daniella Barroqueiro announced that The Little Art School will move from its current upstairs space at 415 N.

Main St. to the old 2 FruGALS location on Main Street — expanding to about 3,000 square feet for improved accessibility and larger class groups. Classes will continue at the current site until move-in day on Oct. 1.

Shelby Vincent published her book Perfect Through and Through to share the true stories of 28 kids facing tough medical challenges, including her daughter Nyomi who was born with a rare tumor that affected her nerves — part of the book’s proceeds will go to Children’s Hospitals across the country.

District 87 said that about 12% of its students need extra support learning English, and staff are helping families by adding interpreters + using a translation app to share school updates.

Gov. JB Pritzker signed a law on August 18 that will phase out PFAS chemicals by 2032, targeting items such as children’s products+cosmetics+intimate apparel to cut contamination in drinking water.

Governor JB Pritzker signed a law last Friday that waives licensing fees for retired health care professionals who volunteer—letting retired doctors, nurses, and others contribute without extra costs to help address the local shortage.

The McLean County League of Women Voters is gathering information from stakeholders about the Bloomington Election Commission and County Clerk to reduce voter confusion—this study may recommend merging the agencies or other changes with findings due in January.

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.

The Four C Notes Tribute Concert

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $29.00+ — Experience the Midwest’s only tribute to Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons with classic hits.

Leonid & Friends Tribute to Chicago

7-8:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $25.00+ — Experience an incredible tribute as Leonid & Friends captures the essence of Chicago's legendary sound.