Good morning, Normal.

Soroptimist International in Bloomington-Normal and OhmFit Activewear are hosting a donation drive for period products including sanitary pads, tampons, deodorant and feminine wipes to help local students in need.

Donations are accepted at several community sites until June 10.

Jennifer Rhodes from Pekin offered to pay the adoption fees for two dogs at Ruby’s Rescue and Retreat in McLean County to honor her late son Chase, who died in a shooting last month—she said this act remembers his kind heart.

The dogs, named Maggie after his dog and Dawson for his friend, were picked up from animal control and have raised $1,240 in donations—helping support the shelter during a hard time.

Illinois humanities groups — including the McLean County Museum of History — asked state lawmakers in Springfield for more support after federal funds were cut.

Lawmakers held a special hearing to address the funding gap as they prepare the state budget.

A strong dust storm hit McLean County, reducing visibility to near zero and prompting state police to call the driving conditions life threatening (winds reached 59 mph at Central Illinois Regional Airport).

Interstates 55 and 74 closed briefly until the dust cleared.

Illinois lawmakers are pushing HR68 to have warehouse owners install rooftop solar panels—critics warn the panels may bring fire and building risks and could add to rising electric bills.

Rep. Halbrook said the change comes as ComEd customers may face up to a $10 monthly increase starting June 1.

Yesterday, the City of Bloomington and Town of Normal launched BN The Solution, a campaign to raise awareness of homelessness resources and panhandling guidance in our community + to provide online information and printed materials at government offices and local businesses.

About two dozen protestors gathered outside U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood's office in uptown Normal this week to protest potential cuts to Medicaid + social services, saying they rely on these supports for their families.

Lawmakers now face pressure to review the proposals amid community concern.

Heartland Community College student Mairen Mannon was named the 2024-25 Student Athlete of the Year by the National Junior College Athletic Association for her volleyball achievements.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Family Paint Party

6:30-8:30 p.m. — BloNo Pizza Co. — Supplies included — Unleash your creativity in a fun and guided painting experience for all ages.