Good morning, Normal.

Guy Fraker — a Lincoln scholar from Bloomington-Normal — will discuss how Lincoln relied on the Declaration of Independence at 2 p.m. on June 30 at the Activity and Recreation Center; a Declaration reading with a band concert will follow on July 8 at Connie Link Amphitheater.

High school students may soon choose between the two-year foreign language requirement or career and technical education courses after the legislature passed a bill awaiting the governor's signature, as local superintendents note teacher shortages and student interest in diverse career paths – a flexible option for schools.

The Uptown Design Review Commission tabled votes on the Trail East and West proposals during a nearly three-hour meeting and asked designers for enhanced renderings—including better shadows, depth, and window details—for further review at the July 13 meeting.

Lawmakers will revisit a plug-in solar bill in the fall veto session to help renters and others access plug-in panels for lowering energy bills, addressing safety concerns over backfeeding—using tested European guidelines.

City officials in Bloomington and Normal are watching new federal guidelines that may reduce funds for homeless programs, and they will meet with community partners to plan next steps.

Downtown contractors are progressing with North Main Street streetscape work (despite unforeseen old infrastructure) and expect full completion by spring.

State Farm Youth Classic returns to Bloomington-Normal from Sunday through Tuesday as more than 230 junior golfers (ages 3 to 22) including players from First Tee Greater Chicago will compete on five local courses.

The nationally recognized event is expected to boost tourism and local economic benefits.

On Thursday night, fans gathered at Brass Pig Smoke & Alehouse in Downtown for a World Cup watch party where Team U.S.A. lost 3-2 to Turkey (the scene highlighted a growing soccer culture).

Owner John Solberg plans an outdoor watch party on July 1 in the new amphitheater area.

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.