Daily
Bloomington
Friday, September 5th, 2025
Good morning, Bloomington. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 5th of September.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ McLean County ROSC has launched a month-long event that asks locals to decorate windows or doors in purple to support National Recovery Month—participants submit photos for a contest where the best designs win gift baskets. This effort sparks talks about recovery from mental health issues, drug use, or trauma while engaging the community in creative ways. WJBC
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Upper Limits Rock Gym began when Chris and Pam Schmick bought an old grain silo and turned it into a climbing gym in Bloomington—now the business marks 30 years with an Anniversary Crash Pad Jamboree tomorrow. The event runs from 1 to 6:30 p.m. and features a boulder competition, food, and prize drawings for local climbers. The Pantagraph
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ A new photo exhibition at Art Vortex Studio in downtown Bloomington opens today, featuring Yolanda Alonso’s photos of traditional Lele dolls made by Otomi women—these dolls tell a story of cultural heritage passed down through generations. The show runs through Nov. 8 with an opening reception from 5—8 p.m. that offers a meet-and-greet with Alonso. WGLT
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Illinois State University enrolled 21,994 students for fall 2025 with 448 more than last year’s record, marking its fourth straight year of growth—19,513 undergraduates and 2,481 graduate students are set to join classes. This increase follows a focused effort to enhance student programs and support services. Central Illinois Proud
- ➤ The McLean County Farm Bureau hosted Rural Route Safety Day at LeRoy High School this week as local farmers and Country Financial representatives taught students safe rural driving practices ahead of harvest season. The event provided practical advice—covering real-world challenges—to help new drivers prepare for busy harvest periods. The Pantagraph
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ On Aug. 15, Gov. JB Pritzker signed the FAIR Act that began a two-year effort to reform the public defense system with a focus on juvenile and child welfare courts—advocates expect the changes to add needed resources in counties like McLean where demand often outstrips support. Supporters such as Patrice James believe the reforms will strengthen legal representation for families facing long-term court cases and foster care challenges. WGLT
- ➤ McLean County’s Justice Committee approved an intergovernmental agreement to expand its CASA program to Ford County—modeled after its Logan County expansion and funded for 2026 and 2027 by a DCFS grant; the agreement now awaits full County Board approval. WGLT
- ➤ Captain Jason Anglin retired after 22 years of service with the Bloomington Fire Department on Wednesday. He served as a mentor to his fellow firefighters—leaving a legacy captured in many career photos. Central Illinois Proud
- ➤ Bloomington Fire Department Captain Jason Anglin retired Wednesday after 22 years of service as he completed his final shift. He was respected for his leadership — mentoring fellow firefighters and serving on key committees including the negotiating team for Local 49. WJBC
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Ballet 5:8 - La Llorona
3:00 – 4:30 PM — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $17.00+ — Experience a poignant ballet that explores maternal pain and healing through stunning artistry.
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Illinois District Barbershop Harmony Society Fall Convention
2:30 PM - 11:00 PM — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — Passes available for purchase — Enjoy a weekend filled with barbershop harmony and musical performances.
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Oracle Sisters Concert
8-9:30 p.m. — The Castle Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting sound of Oracle Sisters with their dreamy melodies and new album release.
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A.J. Croce Presents CROCE PLAYS CROCE
7:30-9 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $38.00+ — Experience a musical odyssey with A.J. Croce as he performs timeless songs and stories from his father's legacy.
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