Friday, November 7th, 2025
Good morning, Bloomington. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 7th of November.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Christmas Creations has operated at Eastland Mall for 45 years and draws shoppers with festive holiday decor that boosts business for neighboring stores. Owner Peggy Parker said her customers come from across the state—helping keep the mall lively this holiday season. Central Illinois Proud
- ➤ Rivian said new trade rules and a change in government policy are lowering costs on its electric vehicles and may help it export its new R2 SUV sooner. The company reported a strong third quarter production at its Normal plant and plans to open a new Georgia plant in 2028 + boost its production capacity for the future. WGLT
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ McLean County school districts are helping families face food shortages as SNAP benefits remain paused; Unit District 5 has opened a pantry at Kingsley Junior High and will host a food drive through November 21st—while District 87 will send meal bags every two weeks to students in need. 25 News Now
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Illinois launched its Here to Help open enrollment campaign in early November to offer residents more support as they choose from hundreds of health plans for coverage starting January 1. State officials said average monthly premiums will rise 78%—with some southern Illinois areas facing even higher increases—while enrollment runs until January 15. Central Illinois Proud
- ➤ A water main broke on Alexander Road in west Bloomington, causing a boil order for homes from Canada Lane to Six Points Road — even though the repair was completed — as the water department tested the water for safety. Central Illinois Proud
- ➤ Bloomington public works crews began picking up curbside leaf piles this week as the city kicked off its fall leaf collection program, and the work will continue for the season. The Pantagraph
- ➤ Due to a 37-day government shutdown, the US DOT cut 10% of airline traffic at 40 major airports — a move that may affect connecting flights at hubs like Peoria International and Central Illinois Regional in Bloomington. Passengers are advised to check their airline apps for flight updates. Central Illinois Proud
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Jen Woodrum, a mental health counselor, explained ways to manage emotions at a behavioral health forum held on November 6th at Bone Student Center. She said that safe connections such as trusted helpers and small moments of calm (glimmers) help our bodies feel secure in a digital world. WGLT
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ WJBC-AM 1230 and FM 102.1 will broadcast a high school basketball game each week sponsored by CEFCU—Normal Community will face Normal West on November 24 at Shirk Center with pregame coverage at 6:20 p.m. and tip-off at 6:30 p.m., then take on University High on November 26 with the same start times; additional broadcasts with live play-by-play and postgame coverage are planned as the season continues. WJBC
- ➤ Illinois State men’s basketball coach Ryan Pedon said his team is preparing for a season opener on Thursday night at Ohio University and is picked to win the Missouri Valley Conference for the first time since 1998. He added that the team welcomes the extra attention from fans—thanks to key returning players and promising freshmen—as it faces challenges in the new NIL era. WGLT
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Indy Fuel vs Bloomington Bison
7-8:30 p.m. — Grossinger Motors Arena — Stream available — Catch the action as the Indy Fuel take on the Bloomington Bison in this exciting hockey match.
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2025 Jingle Bell Run in Central Illinois
1-4 p.m. — Heartland Community College — $50 ($45 before Nov 8) — Celebrate the holidays with a festive run for arthritis awareness while sporting your favorite holiday attire.
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Keb' Mo' Concert
7-9 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $45+ — Experience the Grammy-winning artist Keb' Mo' blend blues with modern sounds in a captivating live performance.
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Hayes Carll Concert
8:00 – 9:30 p.m. — The Castle Theatre — 18+ Event — Experience the soulful tunes of Hayes Carll live in Bloomington.
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Big Daddy Weave: Let It Begin Tour
7-9 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $26.00+ — Experience an uplifting night of music with Big Daddy Weave and friends as they perform inspiring hits and favorites.
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Theresa Caputo Live Experience
7-8:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $55.00+ — Don't miss the 'Long Island Medium' star LIVE in an engaging performance.
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Blippi: Join The Band Tour
6-7:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $36.50+ — Experience a fun musical adventure with Blippi and friends exploring sounds, rhythms, and instruments.
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Sevendust Concert
7-9:30 p.m. — The Castle Theatre — $43 — Experience Sevendust's heavy grooves and soulful vocals on their Southside Double-Wide Tour.
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City of Bloomington Turkey Trot
9-11 AM — Miller Park — Free registration — Celebrate Thanksgiving with a community fun run and support a local food drive.
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Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland
2-3:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $44.00+ — Experience breathtaking circus acts combined with seasonal music in this enchanting holiday show.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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