Good morning, Normal.

Students from Olympia and Ridgeview high schools graduated from a truck driver training course at Heartland Community College to help meet the need for truck drivers+ the program provided hands-on skills for in-demand jobs.

Illinois State University is planning a new budget model to manage a $9 million deficit and has approved faculty contracts with pay raises while moving to build its new College of Engineering, set to welcome students on Aug.

15. ISU president Aondover Tarhule said the board will decide on spending approval on Friday (May 9) and noted federal funding pressures add extra challenges.

Governor Pritzker appointed a Rivian executive to serve on the Illinois State University board of trustees—bringing automotive insight—and the appointment is now in effect.

The homeless encampment near Sugar Creek on South Center Street in south Normal will be disbanded by June 1—required for sewer upgrades on aging infrastructure, including cleaning and repairs on the Kelsey Street interceptor and improvements to the combined sewer overflow.

Officials and local partners are working to secure relocation options for residents before work begins.

Monarch Butterfly Paint Nite

6:30-8:30 p.m. — BloNo Pizza Co. — Cost of supplies included — Unleash your inner artist while enjoying pizza and drinks in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.

Family Paint Party

6:30-8:30 p.m. — BloNo Pizza Co. — Cost of participation — Enjoy a fun-filled evening of creativity with guided painting and delicious food.

Paint Nite: Moonshine Mountains

6:30-8:30 p.m. — BloNo Pizza Co. — $45 per person — Unleash your creativity while enjoying pizza and painting your masterpiece.

Tri-Shark Classic Triathlon and Duathlon

1-5 p.m. — 13001 Recreation Area Dr, Hudson, IL — Registration fees apply — Compete in the Bloomington-Normal area's premier sprint triathlon and duathlon on a flat and fast course through Comlara Park.