Good morning, Bloomington.

Multiethnic houses of worship in Bloomington-Normal serve as spiritual centers & provide community support through services like Spanish Mass, Bible studies, immigration rights workshops and cultural classes that help local residents connect and learn.

A home on Virginia Avenue near Linden Street in Normal became uninhabitable after a fire on Wednesday at 5:30 p.m.—firefighters from Normal and Bloomington arrived as Virginia Avenue was closed from Hillcrest to Linden and one occupant was injured and treated with non-life-threatening injuries while the cause remains under investigation.

A Bloomington man was identified as the victim of a house fire — preliminary findings indicate no foul play — the McLean County coroner said.

A flyer that shows a white nationalist symbol claimed a rally at the downtown Farmer’s Market on Aug.

30, but city officials said no permit has been issued and law enforcement is investigating the matter—McLean County Sheriff Matt Lane said he is in contact with the Bloomington Police Department.

The Sweet Corn Circus will take place at uptown Normal on Saturday, August 23 and Sunday, August 24 with free acts like clowns and live music—attendees can also buy locally grown sweet corn and enjoy vendor booths while nearby streets undergo temporary closures for the event setup starting today and continuing on Friday.

Illinois Wesleyan University began its 175th year yesterday as nearly 600 first-year students moved in while campus renovations continue—introducing a remodeled dining hall with new food stations and a new dorm called Donnocker Hall on Main Street.

City Manager Jeff Jurgens said Bloomington is planning a missing middle housing strategy to add 4,000 to 5,000 affordable homes using townhomes and duplexes in walkable areas near transit—an effort to ease the local housing shortage as new companies bring in more workers.

The city is now working on detailed plans to boost affordable housing in targeted neighborhoods.

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.

Top of the World - A Tribute to the Carpenters

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the heartfelt sounds of the Carpenters tribute live in Bloomington.