Good morning, Normal.

Hal Jennings, a longtime criminal defense attorney known as the lion of the bar, died peacefully at his home on May 5 — he built a strong reputation in Central Illinois law.

A celebration of his life will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 1 at Jim's Steakhouse in Bloomington — donations in his honor are requested instead of flowers.

Two local men were sentenced to prison for sexual assault; Carlos Cregan from Normal received 18 years on May 9 after pleading guilty to aggravated criminal sexual abuse and assault related to a 2022 incident and Steve Acosta from Bloomington got 7 years on May 8 after pleading guilty to aggravated criminal sexual assault from a June 2023 incident—both had been in custody prior to their sentencing.

Carlos Cregan of Normal pleaded guilty to charges of aggravated criminal sexual abuse and criminal sexual assault and was sentenced on May 9 to 18 years in prison—Steve Acosta of Bloomington pleaded guilty to aggravated criminal sexual assault and was sentenced on May 8 to 7 years in prison.

Today, the Sweet Nothings will perform their new musical 'The Satyr’s Last Lament', a cautionary tale that mixes Ren Faire style with hot club jazz and includes kazoos for a twist.

The show begins at 9 p.m. at the McLean County Museum of History before moving to the Bistro (with no cover charge).

A new report shows that although 79% of Illinois community college students intend to transfer for a bachelor's degree, only 35% actually transfer and 20% graduate; extra costs and additional credits have added to their burdens—Heartland Community College has signed agreements with Millikin University and Illinois State University to improve transfers and financial aid coordination as discussions continue on whether community colleges should offer four year degrees.

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.