Friday, May 16th, 2025

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Good morning, Normal. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 16th of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Soroptimist International of Bloomington-Normal is leading a period products donation drive during Period Poverty Awareness Week, May 12-18 — local groups and businesses have joined the effort to collect supplies until June 10. Donations will go to programs serving students and women in need, helping to ease period poverty in our community — the drive builds a stockpile for local schools and support programs. The Pantagraph
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Advocacy groups and local residents gathered outside Representative Darin LaHood’s office in Normal to protest federal budget cuts that cut 880 billion dollars from Medicaid and could reduce access to healthcare and food help for thousands. LaHood said he remains committed to serving his district and local businesses+ organizers urged him to fully oppose the proposed cuts. Central Illinois Proud
- ➤ On May 15th, dozens gathered outside Congressman LaHood’s office in Normal to protest planned federal cuts to SNAP, Medicare and Medicaid. Members of Citizen Action Illinois held a moment of prayer — urging LaHood to stand with his constituents rather than billionaires. 25 News Now
- ➤ Citizen advocacy groups argued on Wednesday that Ameren Illinois’ proposed $134 million gas rate hike is excessive and could add about $10 more per month to bills—while Ameren maintained the increase is needed to meet federal safety requirements. The groups urged the commission to reject at least two-thirds of the rise, and a final decision will come in November. WJBC
- ➤ The McLean County Board approved a resolution that lets Connect Transit replace rural transportation services—so the board can review rider needs such as employment, medical visits, and veteran travel—and will study community feedback over the next six to 12 months. The board also approved a $53,000 contract to retrofit jail cell doors for guard safety and backed projects for a playground at Comlara Park and road improvements on Shirley Road set to begin later. WGLT
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Carle BroMenn Medical Center celebrated the 100th anniversary of its Service Auxiliary Thursday when over 500 volunteers and community leaders gathered to mark a century of support in hospital care. The volunteer group—active since 1925—encouraged those interested to join their ongoing efforts. 25 News Now
SHOP NEWS
- ➤ TODAY'S SPONSOR Only two days remain to take advantage of some of Amazon’s best Prime Day deals. The sale makes upgrading every room of the house simple: We recommend these under sink organizing shelves for your bathroom, Roku’s 40-Inch smart TV for your living room, and the Keurig Hot and Iced Coffee Maker for your kitchen. The Buy
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Normal.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Tailgates N' Tallboys Country Music Festival
All Day — McLean County Fairgrounds — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the joy of country music with live performances and a vibrant atmosphere.
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Sign & Sing with Communication Junction
10:00-10:30 a.m. — Underwood Park — Free entry — Engage in stories, signs, and bubbles with Miss Meghan for kids ages birth to 5.
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Open House at 306 N Blair Drive
10:00am - 11:00am — 306 N Blair Drive — $219,900 — Explore a beautifully updated home with ample outdoor space in Normal's Mission Hills Subdivision.
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