Friday, September 26th, 2025
Good morning, Bloomington. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 26th of September.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ A new specialty bra store called Fittingly You opened in Normal on Aug. 4 to help women find a proper fit at every stage of life—owner Brooke Hassler said the store offers sizes from 28 to 52 with cup sizes A through K and fittings for nursing and post-surgery needs. The store at 115 Susan Drive, Suite D will hold a ribbon cutting on Nov. 4 at 11:30 a.m. The Pantagraph
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Bloomington-Normal artist Yea Big released a collaborative album with Deerhoof drummer Greg Saunier that is available on vinyl and as a digital download. Multi-instrumentalist Swim Ignorant Fire will host a virtual party on Oct.1 for his career retrospective album that will be released on CD on Oct.3—he will also perform at the Sugar Creek Arts Festival on Oct.12—and later at the McLean County Museum of History concert on Oct.21. WGLT
- ➤ Today, Hotter Than June frontman Josh Humphries performs his final solo acoustic set of the band’s songs at the Atchison in Bloomington while the band releases its new album Waiting for a Revival on streaming platforms—marking his new start with the duo project P.O. Box Poets. WGLT
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Today, a new agronomy farm south of Bloomington between Heyworth and Wapella opens to help farmers learn new soybean production techniques as they face tough harvest conditions from drought and higher fire risks—Abigail Peterson of the Illinois Soybean Association said the farm will offer practical demonstrations and tools to boost yields and safety. Cities 92.9
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Illinois State University president Aondover Tarhule said funding pressures remain high after $12 million in budget cuts and rising costs raised concerns during his State of the University address on Thursday. He outlined plans to boost retention and graduation rates, celebrated $60 million in campus upgrades, and announced a quiet phase for a new fundraising campaign—efforts that aim to help the university adapt to current challenges. WGLT
- ➤ Illinois State University President Aondover Tarhule delivered the annual State of the University address in Normal, Ill., highlighting record enrollment, record fundraising totals—and the launch of a new college of engineering, while protesters briefly interrupted to question the fundraiser details; he said the new budget model will be largely completed next month and its preliminary results will be shared later this fall. Central Illinois Proud
- ➤ At the 2025 State of the University address, ISU President Aondover Tarhule said the college balanced a nearly $9 million deficit, provided a 3.5% merit-based raise for faculty, and increased student enrollment by 2%—marking its fourth year of growth. Facility upgrades costing about $60 million supported these changes and reflected strategic decisions made to secure the university's future. 25 News Now
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Former Illinois State Senator Darren Bailey launched his campaign for governor yesterday with events in Carterville, Bloomington—and Oak Brook where he met with supporters. Central Illinois Proud
- ➤ Ryan Whitehouse, the Illinois Farm Bureau’s director of national legislation, died Wednesday after an accident in Michigan. He led efforts in Bloomington that secured over $75 million in transit grants—leaving a legacy of advocacy in the community. WGLT
- ➤ A $12.5 million federal grant will pay for work on the runway at Central Illinois Regional Airport—plans aim to update the facility for better safety and service. The Pantagraph
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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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The Fab Four - The Ultimate Beatles Tribute
7:30-9:00 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $28.00+ — Enjoy a note-for-note live tribute to The Beatles with stunning renditions of their classic hits.
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The Rocket Man Show
6-8 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $24.00+ — Experience an electrifying tribute to Elton John's greatest hits with Rus Anderson as your guide.
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