Good morning, Normal.

After more than eight decades of searching, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency identified WWII soldier Robert L.

Bryant from Bloomington on Sept. 18, 2024—his remains will be buried in Richmond next month to offer closure for his family—bringing final rest to a local hero.

McLean County Sheriff’s Office is investigating election interference claims after school districts asked voters to approve a 1% sales tax on taxpayer-funded websites and resident Dean Fletcher accused officials of illegal coordination with the PAC Yes for McLean County Schools—he said email evidence points to a class B misdemeanor that state’s attorney Erica Reynolds may soon review.

WGLT's Lauren Warnecke curated three weekend events for March 28-30, 2025.

A tool throwing event was held Friday at Gill Street Sports Bar, a play called Space Girl is showing at Eureka College through April 6, and a concert featuring Illinois State's Wind Symphony + Mariachi Tesoro de Mexico will take place Sunday at 4 p.m. at the Center for Performing Arts.

Illinois State University is switching its budget process to use projected revenue instead of past spending, and new vice president for finance Glen Nelson is leading plans to change fund allocation and create a strategic initiative fund.

An unqualified audit report showed a $14 million asset increase amid a $7 million deficit in unrestricted funds—more spending cuts are expected next year as the process gathers campus input.

High school students in McLean, DeWitt, Livingston and Logan counties are invited to apply for the Youth Engaged Philanthropy program for the 2025-2026 school year—participants will gain hands-on experience in managing philanthropic projects that support community needs.

Montessori Children's Centre, owned by Barb Broach, Amy Moser and Rachel Broach, is celebrating 28 years in business in Bloomington.

Founded in 1997, the family-run school now enrolls 60 children at (3 Yount Drive).

On March 28th, the EPA canceled Ecology Action Center’s $498,000 grant for the Bloomington Normal Climate Responsive Community project aimed at improving air and water quality in disadvantaged neighborhoods—executive director Michael Brown said the letter offered vague reasons including waste, fraud and abuse or issues of merit, and the center will appeal the decision while continuing work with funds from another federal grant. This move has added uncertainty to the center’s plans for planting trees and assessing climate risks in McLean County.

A voter in Normal emailed Ward 1 council member Jenna Kearns to ask why she does not say the Pledge of Allegiance at council meetings, arguing that silent reflection fails to fully honor its meaning—further sparking criticism among locals who feel leaders should express their patriotism aloud—while Kearns said she shows respect by standing at attention and facing the flag.

Exploration Day in Bloomington-Normal

2:30-10 p.m. — Meet at Ryburn Place — Costs vary by activity — Explore historic sites and enjoy local dining in a vibrant community setting.

Rivian 5K Charity Run

10:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. — Heartland Community College — Entry fee required — Participate in a fun run supporting local nonprofits with refreshments and an after party.

Children's Day/Book Day Celebration

2-4 p.m. — Illinois Art Station — Free entry — Celebrate reading with engaging activities for children and families.