Good morning, Normal.

A More Perfect Union — a new art exhibition celebrating America’s 250 years — opens at the McLean County Arts Center this week to show local artists’ views on citizenship.

An opening reception is set for Friday, June 19 from 5 to 7 p.m.

Bloomington hosts a free Juneteenth celebration at Miller Park on Saturday from noon to 5 p.m., sponsored by the City and BN Black History Project.

The event features vocal performances, line dancing, a Community Icon Award ceremony, vendors, mobile health resources, and free zoo and mini-golf access.

Heartland Community College has received a total of $15,800 in grants from local veterans and arts organizations plus is using the funds to cover tuition and supplies for its CreatiVets art course open to veterans, caregivers and military spouses.

Heartland Community College will name its future Student Center lounge for a local bank after receiving a $20K gift, supporting campus improvement plans.

Bloomington's Miller Park Zoo welcomed four endangered red wolf pups earlier this month and will monitor them with routine vet checks for a future release (only 25 remain in the wild).

Local governments and school districts are lowering fuel costs amid rising prices by buying in bulk.

County officials in Normal, Bloomington, and surrounding areas have locked in contracts with suppliers like Evergreen FS & Ken’s Oil Service to meet fuel needs for road work and public services.

Heartland trustees approved a project labor agreement Tuesday and advanced a tentative FY27 budget with a projected deficit while awarding contracts for drainage, lighting, building maintenance and prairie work in Normal.

Today, with severe weather predicted, one emergency siren is out but overlapping sirens cover the community—officials said the repair request was submitted and remained uncompleted on Wednesday.

Beauty and the Beatz Day Party

1-4 p.m. — DESTIHL Brewery and Beer Hall — $48.31 — Enjoy a lively day party with music and great vibes.

Fourth of July Sky Concert

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Fairview Park — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with fireworks set to music and family activities at Fairview Park.

Micro Spice Acoustic Evening

7-10 p.m. — CRAFTED Coffee & Wine — Free entry — Experience the warm sounds of an acoustic duo on a summer Friday night.

Aqua Zumba Fitness Class

7 p.m. — Anderson Aquatic Center — Contact for pricing — Dive into low-impact, high-energy fun while toning muscles in the water.