Good morning, Normal.

Yesterday, the Bloomington-Normal YMCA partnered with the Boys and Girls Club—joining forces to combine summer camps and secure more funding for safe play and learning spaces.

Board member David Morris said the new programs boosted community activities and State Representative Sharon Chung added her children inspired her support—pointing to a future of stronger youth programs.

Dylan Burroughs, an 18-year-old from Carlock, died at 10:28 a.m. Wednesday from blunt head trauma after being struck by a vehicle just after 9:20 p.m. July 7 at 825E and 2100 North County Roads—authorities are investigating the incident.

Rivian, a local car maker, announced on July 21 its plan to open an office in London—an expansion meant to attract top talent and boost its AI and autonomous driving work.

The company already uses hands-free driving in its vehicles and will hold an AI and Autonomy Day later this year to share more details.

Local drag artist Sharon ShareAlike, who has entertained audiences for 30 years, performed at the seventh annual Bloomington-Normal Pridefest held on Saturday, July 19 in downtown Bloomington from 4—10:30 p.m. She returned to the stage with her signature drag show featuring local and headlining performers and helped make the family-friendly event a memorable celebration.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Illinois had a 11.56% SNAP error rate in fiscal 2024 that must be fixed to avoid a $705M penalty from the federal government.

State Sen. Chris Balkema urged state officials to review and reduce errors – a move he said would follow successful measures seen in other states.

The state signed the 'Big, Beautiful Bill,' which will cut SNAP benefits and put 360,000 people at risk of losing aid—students who used to get free or reduced lunches now must fill out an application.

The law also removes work requirement exemptions for 23,000 people and will take effect at the beginning of 2027.

Normal officials announced that a lane of College Avenue between Adelaide and Kingley's Streets will close on Monday at 7 a.m. for a water main improvement project; Normal Water Project Engineer Alan Alward said the work is expected to finish by Aug.

1 at 5 p.m. — drivers are advised to use caution.

Emmett Isabel Osorio Live Concert

11 PM — Uptown Circle — Free entry — Experience heartfelt music dedicated to empowerment and memories in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Corn Crib Pro Rodeo

7-9 p.m. — The Corn Crib — Family-friendly fun — Experience thrilling bull riding and bronc riding at this inaugural rodeo event in Normal, IL.