Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 4th of April.
Good morning, Normal.
🏘️ Community
Yesterday, the remains of Pfc.
Robert Lee Bryant (a World War II soldier) passed through Bloomington-Normal in a funeral procession that led to the closure of Veterans Parkway from Shepard Road to Washington Street between about 3:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. His repatriation services will take place on April 12 at Park Hill Cemetery at 1 p.m. while his family escort was led by his great-great-nephew.
📰 Economy
Bloomington native Melissa Chrisman moved back to lead the Convention and Visitors Bureau to plan the Route 66 Centennial in 2026 — leaving her communications job in Fort Worth.
She is working with partners to plan the Red Carpet Corridor Festival on May 3 — a move to boost local tourism with new summer events.
🎓 Education
A new scholarship has been set up at Heartland Community College for students in its 8-week Veterinary Assistant program—funded by John Penn, Mary Penn, and Henry Gauwitz through the Menssen Critter Care Trust.
The trust honors the legacy of Eric and Jayne Menssen, who cared for abandoned and injured animals, as local demand for veterinary assistant jobs is expected to grow.
Educators in ISU’s K-12 lab schools are seeking union recognition for the Lab School Education Association after an administrative law judge ruled in their favor.
The full board decision is expected soon & the union will then start negotiating its first contract with ISU.
🏛️ Government
Veteran’s Parkway was closed Thursday afternoon from Shepard Road in Normal to Washington Street in Bloomington—law enforcement escorted the remains of World War II soldier Pfc.
Robert Lee Bryant, who was killed in action and identified after 81 years. His remains were flown in from Chicago Midway and escorted by his great-great-nephew to Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home—police said the closure lasted from about 3:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. and advised drivers to use alternate routes.
🏈 Sports
Illinois State football coach Brock Spack signed an extension on April 3 to remain with the Redbirds until the 2027 season.
In 16 seasons he has led the team to six NCAA playoff appearances and two Missouri Valley Football Conference championships — a record that makes him the winningest coach in program history.
🎉 Normal Events
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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.
Unit 5K Fun Run
2 PM — Maxwell Park — Registration fee required — Participate in the 4th Annual Unit 5K to support local education initiatives.
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